Five Maoists, including two women, were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Bijapur, Bastar. This operation came days after an IED blast killed eight policemen and a civilian driver. Security forces seized weapons and explosives, and further search operations are ongoing in the region.
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Manmohan Singh's state funeral was conducted with full military honors, attended by politicians, dignitaries, and family members. Despite tensions between Congress and BJP over memorial sites, the event remained dignified. The ceremony included military bands, ceremonial marching, and Sikh priests reciting verses, with Singh's daughter lighting the pyre.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann announced a crackdown on gangsters, smugglers, and criminals, emphasizing zero tolerance for drugs. He highlighted the efforts to dismantle drug supply chains and praised the police's role in maintaining peace. Mann also announced the recruitment of 10,000 new police personnel and the reduction in road accident casualties by 48.10% due to a new road safety force.
In a controversial move, the Trump administration has approved a $397 million package for Pakistan's F-16 fighter jet fleet, while offering India the advanced F-35 Lightning II jet. This dual approach aims to recalibrate South Asia's power dynamics, but raises concerns about Pakistan's potential misuse of the F-16s.
OYO has introduced a new policy allowing its partner hotels to refuse check-ins to unmarried couples. This policy aligns with local social norms and will start from Meerut. Couples must present valid proof of relationship. OYO aims to expand this measure to other cities and ensure safe hospitality while respecting local sentiments.
Haryana's Khap Panchayats have praised the government's decision to ban songs that glorify guns and obscenity. They urge stronger action against artists who produce inappropriate content and advocate for promoting positive societal values. Leaders demand pre-release approval for songs and stricter regulations on DJ events.
The Delhi government under the BJP has presented 14 CAG reports in the Assembly highlighting alleged financial irregularities during the AAP's tenure, prompting the expulsion of AAP MLAs. Key findings include significant cost overruns in the renovation of the CM's residence, dubbed 'Sheesh Mahal' by the BJP.
All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has announced a nationwide agitation against the proposed Waqf Amendment Bill, starting with protests in Patna and Vijayawada. AIMPLB spokesperson SQR Ilyas expressed gratitude for the widespread support against the bill. Protests and rallies are planned across several major cities, with broad participation from political parties and minority communities.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has barred 14 toll collection agencies for irregular fee collection activities at toll plazas. Following raids and an FIR by the UP Special Task Force, NHAI found their responses unsatisfactory and debarred them for two years, forfeiting over Rs 100 crore in performance securities.
The Delhi government has declared five dry days for the initial quarter of fiscal year 2025-26, including significant religious observances such as Ram Navami, Mahavir Jayanti, Good Friday, Buddha Purnima, and Eid-ul-Zuha. Liquor shops will be closed on these dates as per the Delhi Excise Rules, 2010, with mandates for licensees to display the order visibly.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of Art of Living, unveiled rare relics of the original Somnath Jyotirlingam in Delhi during a Maha Satsang titled Anandam. Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, who attended the event, praised the organization’s Yamuna cleanup efforts and announced plans for a riverfront project.