Despite a caste survey highlighting the dominance of backward classes, Bihar's upcoming elections see parties prioritizing traditional vote banks over population-based representation. Parties are fielding candidates based on established loyalties, with the BJP and JD(U) within the NDA showing a significant number of upper-caste candidates, while RJD focuses on Yadavs and Muslims.

Congress unveiled its second list of Bihar candidates, naming nominees for five key constituencies. The Mahagathbandhan faces internal seat-sharing disputes and «friendly fights» among allies, with the BJP alleging deep conflicts.

Despite losing Faizabad in the Lok Sabha polls, the BJP aims to retain its stronghold in Bihar's Mithilanchal region. The party is banking on developmental projects and the consecration of the Ram temple to secure votes in the upcoming assembly elections, while the Mahagathbandhan campaigns to challenge its dominance.

Chirag Paswan has emerged as a significant force within the NDA ahead of the Bihar elections. His party secured a substantial 29 seats in seat-sharing talks, more than any other junior ally. This success, coupled with a 100% win rate in the Lok Sabha polls, bolsters his bargaining power and positions him as a potential kingmaker in government formation.

Pakistan army chief Asim Munir issued a stern warning to India, threatening a «decisive response» and «military and economic losses beyond imagination» amid border tensions. He placed the onus of any escalation on India, urging them to resolve core issues based on equality and mutual respect.

In Bihar's 2020 elections, the Left parties, particularly CPI(ML), showed a strong performance, nearly matching the BJP's strike rate. Five years later, they are pushing for a larger seat share in the Mahagathbandhan, citing their past success and widespread presence, though negotiations remain uncertain.

A viral video shows the difficulties of walking on Indian footpaths. Content creator Caleb Friesen struggled with a baby stroller in Bengaluru, encountering numerous obstructions. His post humorously ranked these obstacles, placing pedestrians last. The video has sparked conversations about footpath accessibility across Indian cities. Friesen aims to raise awareness about these issues.

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin criticised the Centre, questioning its «arrogance» in naming projects in Hindi and Sanskrit. He also alleged «vote theft» in Bihar's revision exercise and accused the Centre of suppressing Tamil Nadu's ancient civilisation. Finance minister Thangam Thennarasu echoed these sentiments, citing denied funds and stalled projects as political vendetta.

Jitan Ram Manjhi, a veteran politician and Union Minister, remains a significant figure in Bihar's political landscape despite his party's modest vote share. His influence among Mahadalits and in the Magadh region could prove crucial for the NDA in the upcoming elections, where caste dynamics are decisive.

The Home Ministry has ordered a judicial inquiry into the September 24th Leh violence, which resulted in four deaths. Former Supreme Court judge B.S. Chauhan will lead the probe, a key demand of the Ladakh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance. This move could pave the way for renewed talks, though protests continue.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries on Saturday extended heartfelt Dhanteras greetings to citizens, praying for happiness, prosperity, and good health. Leaders emphasised the significance of the festival, linking it to wealth, health, and the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, while also urging for environmental protection and social harmony.

The Home Ministry has ordered a judicial probe by retired SC judge B S Chauhan into the September 24 Ladakh violence that claimed four lives. This follows protests demanding statehood and autonomy, with activists like Sonam Wangchuk arrested. Talks were called off by protesters seeking a probe and the release of detainees, disputing claims of normalcy.

India and Bangladesh are embroiled in a diplomatic dispute following the killing of three Bangladeshis in Tripura. Dhaka condemned the «brutal beating and killing» as a «grave violation of human rights,» while India stated the deceased were «smugglers» who attacked villagers. New Delhi urged Dhaka to uphold border sanctity and prevent cross-border crimes.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted India's growing self-reliance in defence during Operation Sindoor, where indigenous platforms like the BrahMos-integrated Su-30Mki played a crucial role. He lauded HAL's Nashik unit for its contributions, emphasizing India's capability to design, build, and defend with its own systems.

The Election Commission has directed law enforcement agencies to intensify vigil and curb the use of cash and other inducements in the Bihar polls. A comprehensive roadmap was drawn up to combat these pernicious effects, with agencies briefed on pre-emptive and preventive measures. The EC emphasized intra-agency coordination and a zero-tolerance policy on poll inducements.

Bihar's opposition Mahagathbandhan faces scrutiny over delayed seat-sharing talks, with the NDA appearing organized. Alliance leaders, however, insist the delay signifies expansion, not disarray, citing coordination complexities. Despite some candidate overlaps, leaders express confidence in forming a government, drawing parallels to past successful alliances.

The Supreme Court has taken serious note of rising digital arrests across India, seeking a response from the government and CBI. This action follows a case where a senior citizen couple was digitally arrested using forged court orders, leading to extortion. The apex court emphasized that such fabrications undermine public trust in judicial institutions and require coordinated efforts to combat.

Padma Shri actor Manoj Bajpayee publicly denounced a manipulated campaign video falsely featuring him, shared by the RJD's IT cell. He clarified his non-affiliation with any political party, calling the clip a fake edit. The RJD later deleted the video, but the incident sparked political accusations and highlighted the ongoing high-voltage campaign for the Bihar assembly elections.

The Supreme Court has initiated a suo motu case concerning 'digital arrest' extortion scams, particularly targeting senior citizens. This action follows a complaint from a septuagenarian who lost over Rs 1 crore due to forged SC orders used by scammers. The court will assess the state police's capability to handle these nationwide rackets and consider judicial monitoring for swift investigations.

Rahul Gandhi visited the family of Hariom Valmiki, a Dalit man lynched in Raebareli. Gandhi alleged the government threatened the family against meeting him. He pledged Congress support for Dalits facing atrocities nationwide. Gandhi stated the family seeks justice and accused the government of obstructing their access to medical care and protection for perpetrators.