Mukhtar Ansari’s son, Abbas Ansari, has requested the Supreme Court to permit virtual trial attendance, fearing a fake encounter if transported physically by police. The Supreme Court advised seeking the request from the trial court or High Court and asked UP government to respond to his bail plea in two weeks.
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The central government banned the Awami Action Committee (AAC) and Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM) for five years. They were accused of spreading anti-India propaganda and promoting secessionism in the Union territory. The Ministry of Home Affairs declared them unlawful under the Unlawful Activities Act. The groups were also accused of supporting separatists and raising funds for terrorist activities.
Rajya Sabha chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar dismissed a privilege notice against union home minister Amit Shah, filed by Congress's Jairam Ramesh. Shah had referenced a 1948 press release concerning a Congress leader's involvement with the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund. Dhankhar found no violation in Shah's statement, maintaining it was authenticated.
Domestic flights in India were the most packed globally in 2024, with an 86.4% passenger load factor. Despite supply chain constraints and grounded aircraft due to engine issues, India recorded its highest ever domestic air travellers at 163 million. Globally, overall air travel demand and efficiency reached record levels.
Indian Army chief general Upendra Dwivedi shared insights into his multi-religious upbringing, military career, and leadership values in an interview. He highlighted interfaith harmony within his regiment and recounted his early inspirations to join the Army. General Dwivedi also praised air marshal AP Singh’s leadership and reflected on their NDA days. His journey underscores respect for all religions, teamwork, and dedication to service as the 30th chief of Army staff.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized focusing on improving infrastructure, amenities, and transportation networks in naturally growing urban zones. He suggests prioritizing vertical development over creating new cities to better manage growth and decongestion. The housing ministry aims to develop a framework for transit-oriented development while collaborating with states.
The directorate general of health services (DGHS) has called on the IPL chairperson to regulate promotions for tobacco and alcohol during the upcoming IPL season starting 22nd March 2025.
Rajya Sabha Congress MP Vivek K Tankha has urged the Central government to discuss with Pakistan the creation of a corridor to Sharda Peeth, a revered Hindu temple in PoK, similar to the Kartarpur corridor. He emphasized the need for the rehabilitation of displaced Kashmiri Pandits and providing them religious access, highlighting security and essential facility concerns.
Rahul Gandhi criticized the Indian government over its drone policies, using a banned Chinese drone, sparking backlash from industry experts. Critics argue his comments undermine India's progress, with substantial contributions from over 400 Indian companies. Questions were raised about Gandhi's legal permissions to fly the drone in restricted zones. He suggested India lacks a strong industrial base for drone manufacturing.
Delhi's lieutenant governor ordered an anti-corruption probe into AAP's claims that BJP attempted to poach its candidates by offering Rs 15 crore and ministerial positions. BJP refuted the allegations and requested investigation into the claims, stating that they are creating panic amidst elections without substantial proof. AAP leaders met with Kejriwal ahead of assembly election results to discuss strategies.
The Uttar Pradesh Budget session, starting on February 18 and ending on March 5, will feature a joint sitting on February 20. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged constructive participation, and Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna promised a budget focused on welfare and balanced growth. Speaker Satish Mahana called for productive debates.