The central government informed Parliament that it had raised concerns with the US about the use of restraints on Indian deportees, especially women. The US assured India that no women or children were restrained on recent deportation flights. Concerns related to religious sensitivities and food preferences of deportees were also addressed by both governments.
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Union Home Minister Amit Shah clarified that non-Muslims will be included only in the administrative roles of the Council and Waqf Board under the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025. They won’t manage religious activities but will oversee the administration of property donated under Waqf Law.
Yogesh Panchal, an engineer from Maharashtra, returned to India on February 4 after being detained in Iran for nearly two months for clicking photographs in a restricted zone. His release was facilitated by the Ministry of External Affairs following intervention by MP Ajit Gopchade. Panchal was treated well during his detention and released after a hearing.
Harish Rawat, former Uttarakhand chief minister, faced a setback as he found his name missing from the voters list during Dehradun's municipal elections. Despite being a resident since 2009, Rawat was unable to vote, alleging BJP's involvement in altering the list. Voting is underway for multiple municipal positions across Uttarakhand.
Union home minister Amit Shah criticized Rahul Gandhi for relying on NGO data and speeches during a debate on the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, emphasizing India's stricter immigration policies to ensure national security. Shah reiterated the government's stance against illegal entries, stressing the need to protect India's growing economy and internal security.
Delhi CM Atishi accuses the BJP of double standards for planning temple demolitions, including Hindu and Buddhist temples, despite their claims of protecting Hinduism. She asserts that the BJP is circumventing her elected administration and warns of significant community repercussions. The LG’s office denies these allegations as political diversion.
Around 32 lakh temples globally, primarily in India, will form a unified federation to efficiently manage tourism and spiritual circuits. The International Temples Convection and Expo (ITCX) 2025 in Tirupati will bring together various religious institutions to modernize temple management, focusing on technology, sustainability, and community services.
Arvind Kejriwal, who once symbolized a movement for clean governance and political integrity, has seen his reputation decline over the years due to controversies and challenges. Significant issues such as the 2022 liquor case and the CM bungalow controversy have tarnished his image, contributing to a significant electoral defeat.
Despite India's recent reduction of tariffs on American bourbon, the Trump administration insists the 100% duty is still unhelpful. The White House highlights that this discrepancy impacts US spirits market expansion, emphasizing the need for fair treatment of American businesses globally.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 13 km stretch of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Namo Bharat Corridor. The initiative, costing Rs 4,600 crores, is set to enhance connectivity in Delhi and the NCR. Delhi BJP president Sachdeva and Delhi CM Atishi highlighted other key transport projects aiding the city’s infrastructure development.
State housing agency Mhada has granted a no-objection certificate to Swami Vivekanand International School to rebuild their demolished sports turf and nylon nets. The school is required to pay a rental fee and security deposit for a year's use, with the condition that the facilities will not be used commercially or sublet.