India has identified 44 nationals serving in the Russian Army amid the Ukraine conflict and urged Moscow for their release. The Ministry of External Affairs is coordinating with Russian authorities and affected families, warning citizens against dangerous recruitment offers. This comes as families protest, seeking government intervention for their relatives allegedly misled into fighting.

Union minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar criticizes Congress for appeasement politics before the Jubilee Hills by-poll. He claims Hindus in the constituency are supporting the BJP. Kumar alleges Congress is pandering to Muslim voters and calls the party the 'Indian Muslim Congress'. He urges the Hindu community to consolidate votes for the BJP in the upcoming election.

As Bihar's election enters its second phase, the BJP is shifting its campaign focus to «infiltration,» with Prime Minister Modi highlighting the issue in border regions. He accused the opposition of shielding «infiltrators» for votes, framing it as a national security challenge. This narrative aims to counter traditional opposition strongholds in Seemanchal, emphasizing identity and security over development.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft takeoff caused a nearly two-hour delay to his Bihar rally. Kharge stated security officials made him wait in his helicopter, claiming the BJP frequently obstructs Congress campaigns. This incident occurred as both leaders campaigned in Bihar ahead of the final phase of voting.

Rahul Gandhi has accused the Maharashtra government of land theft. He alleges government land worth ₹1,800 crore, meant for Dalits, was sold for ₹300 crore to a company linked to Ajit Pawar's son. Stamp duty was waived in the transaction. Gandhi claims this exposes corruption and that the government came to power through vote theft.

A viral video captured a man urinating near Delhi's Red Fort metro station, sparking outrage and debate. Foreign influencer and local volunteers confronted the individual, highlighting a lack of civic sense. The incident reignites discussions on public hygiene and the effectiveness of shaming as a deterrent, emphasising the urgent need for greater public awareness.

Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport faced significant disruption Friday as a glitch in the Automatic Message Switching System (AMSS) led to over 300 flight delays. Air traffic controllers were forced to revert to manual procedures, drastically slowing down operations. Airlines issued advisories, urging passengers to check revised schedules and expect longer waits as teams worked to restore the system.

Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has dismissed rumors of a leadership change in Karnataka, stating it's not easy for Congress to replace Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He described Siddaramaiah as a capable leader, having known him from his JD(S) days. Kumaraswamy also commented on Deputy CM DK Shivakumar's aspirations, suggesting his ambitions are a matter between him and God.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the 1937 Congress government of removing stanzas from Vande Mataram, claiming it fractured the song and sowed seeds of partition. He emphasized the song's enduring inspiration for nation-building and highlighted India's civilisational ethos of the nation as a mother and Shakti.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a year-long national celebration for 'Vande Mataram'. He inaugurated a special portal and released commemorative stamps and coins. The Prime Minister described the song as a symbol of devotion and national unity. Millions across India joined in singing the full version of the iconic anthem. The event honored freedom fighters and the timeless composition.

The Supreme Court has issued notices to cricketer Mohammad Shami and the West Bengal government regarding a petition by his estranged wife, Hasin Jahan. She seeks an increased alimony for herself and their daughter, challenging the Calcutta High Court's Rs 4 lakh monthly order. Jahan claims Shami's substantial income contrasts with her meager earnings and high expenses.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah warned Bihar voters against the opposition Mahagathbandhan, alleging they would establish an «Apaharan (kidnapping) ministry» if they win. He contrasted this with the NDA's promise to make Bihar flood-free and asserted that lawlessness would not return under their rule.

Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of «stealing elections» and vowed to expose this to Gen Z. He presented evidence from the Election Commission, alleging fake votes and photographs, and claimed the BJP and EC are attacking the Constitution. Gandhi highlighted instances of multiple votes by one person and a Brazilian woman's photo being misused.

A significant security lapse occurred at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) when a British national, Fitz Patrick, reportedly bypassed immigration after arriving from Bangkok. Authorities have launched a manhunt using technical and human intelligence to locate the individual, who is believed to have exited without completing mandatory checks.

Prashant Kishor slammed Bihar's deteriorating law and order after Deputy CM Vijay Sinha's convoy was attacked. Kishor stated Sinha's remarks confirmed the ruling NDA government's failure, asserting no one is safe. The incident saw Sinha accuse RJD supporters of stone-pelting and cow dung attacks, prompting the Election Commission to demand immediate action against miscreants.

Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP of electoral malpractice, alleging «chunav chori» (election theft). He claimed systematic manipulation, citing Haryana as an example of «wholesale chori» and «one man, multiple votes,» and stated the Prime Minister came to power through such means.

Delhi Airport is experiencing significant flight delays since Thursday evening due to a software issue with the Aeronautical Message Switching System (AMSS) in air traffic control. This technical problem has slowed down flight movements, leading to stacked-up delays and impacting both departures and arrivals. Authorities are working to resolve the issue, with rectification expected by Friday evening.

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Bihar's first election phase saw a record 64.66% voter turnout, with enthusiastic participation from women. Despite peaceful polling, stray incidents of violence and accusations between leaders, including deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha and RJD MLC Ajay Kumar, were reported. Prashant Kishor's party also made its presence felt, advocating for prohibition law repeal.

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