Congress MP Imran Masood stated Shashi Tharoor is «not a big part» of the party, intensifying the rift. Tharoor skipped a crucial Kerala poll meeting for a literature festival, defending his stance on Operation Sindoor and stating concerns should be raised internally.

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen voiced concerns over West Bengal's Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, saying the exercise is «being done in a hurry,» further calling it an unjust to voters and a threat to democratic participation. He highlighted personal challenges with documentation and warned that the underprivileged and minority communities are most at risk of exclusion.

Heads of universities and colleges are no longer just administrators; they are now the first line of accountability in preventing and responding to discrimination. New structures, new reporting mechanisms, and strict timelines are written into the rulebook, backed by the threat of serious penalties for non-compliance. Yet, as has often been the case with regulations aimed at correcting long-standing social inequities, the real questions lie beneath the stated intent.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has clarified his stance on party lines. He stated his only public disagreement was on Operation Sindoor and India's counterterrorism position. Tharoor emphasized national interest above political differences. His remarks follow reports of internal party friction and his absence from a key meeting. He recalled past events and leaders' views on national security.

Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin sharply criticized governor RN Ravi in the state assembly, accusing him of undermining constitutional conventions by refusing to read his customary address. Stalin highlighted the Dravidian model government's achievements and dismissed law and order concerns.

While highlighting how celebrations for the republic have been ongoing, including the upcoming National Voters Day on January 25, he highlighted how the appointment letters are an «invitation to nation building.»

Air India has cancelled all flights to and from New York and Newark on January 25 and 26 due to a severe winter storm forecast. The airline cited safety concerns for passengers and crew as the storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall and icy conditions to the US East Coast.

Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan highlighted India's evolving security landscape, shaped by rapid technological advancements like AI and big data. He warned of «cognitive colonialism» through information warfare and stressed self-reliance and societal resilience to safeguard sovereignty in a changing world.

The Indian Air Force's Sarang helicopter display team will perform at the Singapore Airshow 2026, joining renowned international aerobatic teams. The event, held from February 3-9, will feature eight aerial displays by six air forces and showcase advanced military and commercial aircraft, including the debut of Australia's F-35A Lightning II.

The government will soon mandate mechanized covering for trucks carrying loose materials to prevent items from falling onto roads. This update to the Truck Body Code, aimed at improving safety and compliance with Supreme Court orders, will also include requirements for AC driver cabins and advanced driver assistance systems.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that his government is pursuing Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's vision of a strong India, emphasizing the nation's capability to wield power effectively. He criticized past governments for neglecting the islands' history due to insecurities, while his administration has taken corrective measures, including renaming islands to honor Bose and Param Vir Chakra awardees.

Over 40 global election management bodies adopted the 'Delhi Declaration 2026', committing to enhance electoral integrity through five pillars: pure rolls, fair elections, research, technology use, and capacity building. India offered to share its ECINET platform and election expertise to foster international cooperation and smoother electoral processes.

The Supreme Court expressed shock over public money being siphoned off by corporate houses, stating it should not be lenient. The bench will monitor proceedings concerning Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal's bank account, declared «fraud,» to trace the «money parked.»

Over 300 dog carcasses were discovered in a pit in Jagtial district, Telangana, following alleged mass killings. This incident brings the total number of deceased dogs in the state this month to nearly 900. Animal rights activists claim the killings were ordered by the village sarpanch, leading to an FIR against local officials.

Republic Day parade features a unique contingent of 'animal soldiers' including Bactrian camels and Zanskar ponies. For the first time, the S-400 air defence system and drone shakti will be showcased. The event highlights indigenous military might, women's participation, and a flypast celebrating recent victories.

Jammu and Kashmir was battered by heavy snowfall and fierce winds reaching 155kmph, causing widespread disruption. Highways were blocked, flights cancelled, schools shut, and power supply severely impacted. The Vaishno Devi pilgrimage was suspended as snow blanketed the Trikuta Hills. Authorities are bracing for further weather challenges.

Security forces neutralized a top Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist, Usman, in Kathua's Billawar during Operation Trashi-I. This operation, now in its sixth day, has seen intense combing operations and the discovery of a terrorist hideout. The ongoing hunt for more militants continues despite challenging conditions, marking a significant breakthrough for security forces.

Indian sailors faced the worst abandonment in 2025. Over 1,100 Indian seafarers were left stranded on ships. This marks a significant increase from previous years. Many were left without pay and unable to return home. The International Transport Workers’ Federation is working to recover wages. This situation highlights serious issues in the maritime industry.

Families of Hyderabad youths are pleading with the government for help, claiming their sons were lured to Thailand with fake job offers and are now held captive and tortured near the Myanmar border. These individuals were reportedly forced into long working hours, denied basic necessities, and beaten for attempting to leave.

Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin rejected Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'double engine' government pitch, asserting the state has achieved growth independently. Stalin accused the BJP of betraying Tamil Nadu and highlighted the growth in non-'double engine' states. Modi, in turn, criticized the DMK government as 'Corruption, Mafia, Crime' and accused them of misgovernance and vote-bank politics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the NDA's campaign in Tamil Nadu, asserting voters are ready to oust the «corrupt» DMK government. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin countered, accusing the NDA of betraying the state and highlighting pending demands, including financial aid and NEET exemption.