The National Investigation Agency searched 12 locations in Jammu regarding cross-border terrorist infiltration. The operation, acting on specific intelligence inputs, involves examining premises linked to OGWs and hybrid terrorists who supported Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed operatives entering India.
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Opposition parties in Rajya Sabha criticized PM Modi for not visiting Manipur after ethnic violence broke out in May 2023, arguing his absence suggested negligence. Treasury benches highlighted home minister Amit Shah's proactive measures, including a three-day visit and appointing former home secretary Ajay Bhalla as Manipur's governor.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the ongoing challenges of dark web, cryptocurrency, online marketplaces, and drones in combating drug trafficking at a regional conference. He emphasized the government's efforts in significantly increasing drug seizures, dismantling narco-terror networks, and the importance of technological solutions and joint efforts for ensuring national security.
Opposition leaders criticized the Union Budget presented by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman for not addressing the middle class and small business owners. The budget favored corporate loans over relief for common citizens, with significant allocations to Bihar ahead of upcoming elections, while neglecting states like West Bengal.
V Narayanan is set to become the new chairman of ISRO on January 14, succeeding S Somanath. Narayanan will oversee several significant projects, including the Chandrayaan-4 lunar mission, Gaganyaan human spaceflight, and space station development. His background in cryogenics and leadership experience will aid in advancing ISRO's ambitious space programs.
A Chhota Rajan gang member, Vilas Balaram Pawar, who had been absconding for 16 years, was arrested in Mumbai. Pawar, involved in crimes like murder and attempt to murder, was apprehended in Chembur. He had been changing his locations to evade authorities since his release on bail in 2008.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the need for India and China to cooperate for mutual benefit and to bolster the Global South. Key recent diplomatic interactions between leaders have improved bilateral relations, highlighting the importance of dialogue and resolving disputes diplomatically.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that Tahawwur Rana, involved in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, has exhausted all legal avenues in the US, and Indian authorities are coordinating with the US for his extradition. This development precedes Prime Minister Modi's visit to the US, highlighting the importance of India-US partnership and continued efforts to bring the 26/11 perpetrators to justice.
The West Bengal government informed the Supreme Court about conducting a fresh assessment of community backwardness for OBC categorization and reservation, aiming to complete it within three months. The move follows the Calcutta High Court's order cancelling OBC status of some castes, criticizing the state’s criteria, particularly in quickly including certain Muslim communities.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar defended the amendment to election rules restricting public inspection of CCTV footage at polling booths, emphasizing the need to protect voter privacy and prevent misuse of footage through fake narratives. The new rule limits access to CCTV footage, ensuring voter identities are safeguarded.
A political controversy has started in Maharashtra over the government's new 'Malhar Certification' initiative. Minister Nitesh Rane launched this certification for Hindu meat traders to ensure shops are 100% Hindu-owned and free from adulteration. Opposition leaders have criticised the move, calling it divisive and unconstitutional. Rane defended the initiative, focusing on ensuring quality and promoting Hindu-owned businesses.