The Supreme Court expressed concern over sect-based temple restrictions, warning they could harm Hinduism and divide society. A nine-judge bench heard arguments on religious freedom versus state power to open temples, with judges questioning exclusions that might negatively impact the religion and its followers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi fiercely criticized West Bengal's TMC government, accusing it of normalizing violence and turning crude bomb-making into a cottage industry. He promised strict action against infiltrators and land grabbers if the BJP forms the government, highlighting the Bogtui massacre as a blot on humanity and questioning the TMC's respect for tribal communities.

India has bolstered seafarer safety and trade continuity amidst Middle East tensions. New directives advise seafarers in Iranian waters to stay indoors and coordinate movements. Simultaneously, measures are in place to ensure smooth maritime trade, including transparent freight charges and improved grievance redressal.

As Kerala votes today, several constituencies are battlegrounds for shifting political equations and leadership tests. The traditional UDF-LDF fight intensifies with the BJP's push, creating triangular contests in key seats like Nemom and Palakkad. Rebellions and prestige battles in Ambalapuzha and Peravoor, alongside legacy fights in Pala, will significantly shape the final outcome.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that a political change in West Bengal is imminent, with citizens demanding it. Addressing a rally in Asansol, he accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of fostering a 'syndicate raj' controlling the coal and sand sectors, vowing a BJP government would restore industrial strength and end mafia rule.

As Kerala heads to the polls, the election narrative shifts from rallies to booth-level battles. The ruling LDF aims for a historic third term, while the UDF seeks to leverage local body momentum against anti-incumbency. The NDA is focused on converting key pockets into durable political footholds, making these 20 constituencies the state's pressure points.

Dudhwa Tiger Reserve authorities are seeking help from IVRI, Bareilly to determine the cause of death for 25 critically endangered vultures found in the buffer zone. Vultures are suspected to have died after consuming poisoned dog carcasses found nearby. Post-mortem revealed a poisonous substance in the dogs, but the exact poison remains unidentified.

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued another warning to medical colleges regarding overcharging MBBS fees, particularly for the internship period. Despite past directives and regulatory powers, enforcement remains weak, with limited punitive action reported for violations like stipend irregularities. This pattern raises concerns about accountability in medical education.

Puducherry's assembly elections commenced today with an innovative touch as a robot named 'Nila' greeted voters. Approximately 9.5 lakh electors are choosing among 294 candidates across 30 constituencies. The main contenders are the NDA, led by Chief Minister N Rangasamy, and the Congress-DMK alliance. Key issues like statehood and unemployment are prominent, with counting set for May 4.

Bangladesh's Foreign Minister reiterated calls for former PM Sheikh Hasina's extradition during his India visit, marking the new government's first official approach. Discussions also covered energy cooperation, visa easing, and increased diesel and fertilizer supplies. Dhaka emphasized a «Bangladesh First» foreign policy, while India expressed a desire to strengthen bilateral ties.

The Election Commission replaced Tamil Nadu's Chief Secretary and DGP ahead of polls, citing complaints of administrative bias towards the ruling DMK. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin vehemently criticized the EC, accusing it of acting as a BJP 'branch' and attempting to hinder DMK's victory. He questioned the sudden change in assessment of the state's administration.

The BJP has not nominated any Muslim candidates in the Bengal elections, a departure from previous polls despite a significant Muslim membership. Party leaders cited 'winnability' as the primary criterion for candidate selection, suggesting a disconnect between the BJP's platform and Muslim voting patterns. In contrast, Congress, TMC, and the Left Front have fielded a considerable number of Muslim candidates.

India has welcomed a temporary ceasefire in West Asia. The truce, brokered by Pakistan, aims to end a brutal war. India hopes this will lead to lasting peace and ensure global trade flows freely. The government also sees potential for peace efforts in Ukraine. India prioritizes the safety of its diaspora and LPG tanker passage.

The Supreme Court expressed concern over the misuse of Public Interest Litigation for personal agendas, suggesting it would have dismissed a PIL challenging the Sabarimala custom. Justices noted that such challenges, if not brought by devotees, lack cause of action. The court emphasized the need for strict locus standi rules to prevent PIL abuse, especially in religious matters.

The government has approved draft bills to amend the women's reservation law, aiming for 33% reservation in Lok Sabha and state assemblies from 2029. These bills, to be introduced in the upcoming special Parliament session, will increase Lok Sabha seats to 816, with 273 reserved for women.

Congress leader Pawan Khera has sought anticipatory bail from the Telangana High Court. This follows a case filed by Guwahati police concerning his allegations against Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife. Khera claims the FIR copy hasn't been provided and the charges are invalid. Assam Police's pursuit has now extended to Hyderabad.

Bhowanipore constituency, the high-profile seat of Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, has seen its electorate shrink by nearly 25% after electoral roll revisions. Over 51,000 deletions occurred, with a significant portion of Muslims marked for adjudication and eventual deletion, raising concerns among researchers.

Assam's upcoming elections are a crucial referendum on Assamese nationalism, identity, and the state's political future. Regional parties face declining relevance as national parties dominate, with the BJP's 'jati, mati, bheti' plank and 'Brand Himanta' shaping the narrative. The Congress leads a broad opposition alliance, aiming to challenge the incumbent government amidst evolving identity politics.

All India NR Congress (AINRC)-led NDA coalition govt is seeking a second consecutive term while Congress-led INDIA bloc is leaving no stone unturned to wrest power back from the NDA.

Puducherry gears up for polls on April 9, with over 9.5 lakh voters deciding the fate of 294 candidates across 30 seats. Key issues include statehood, economic challenges, and the rise of a third force. Security is tight, with drone surveillance and special polling stations ensuring a smooth process. The election outcome will shape the Union Territory's political future.