Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj’s coronation as jathedar of Takht Kesgarh Sahib and Akal Takht was marked by a notable absence of traditional rituals and high-ranking community members. Key Sikh organizations were also not present. Former Jathedar Bhai Ranjit Singh criticized the lack of reverence, while Panthic Talmel Sangathan announced protests against SGPC members who supported the decision.
A 30-year-old chef from a five-star hotel in Nagpur was arrested for flashing women on Wardha Road, sparking public outrage after a video of the incident went viral. The chef, who frequently filmed vulgar acts, was apprehended due to the footage captured by a college student. His phone contained explicit videos, including many filmed within his house.
Air India urged passengers to use lavatories for their intended purposes after a flight from Chicago to Delhi diverted back due to clogged toilets. Items like polythene bags, rags, and clothes were found in lavatory plumbing. The airline emphasized passenger safety and provided immediate assistance, including hotel accommodations and alternative flight options.
Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin condemned Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s remarks calling DMK MPs uncivilised. DMK MP Kanimozhi also criticized Pradhan for his comments. Pradhan’s remarks led to DMK cadres protesting across Tamil Nadu, demanding an apology from the minister. Pradhan defended his stance on the National Education Policy, while BJP MPs supported the promotion of Sanskrit.
The Allahabad High Court has directed the ASI to provide a detailed reply regarding the necessity of whitewashing, extra lighting, and decorative lights outside the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. The directive follows a petition by the mosque management and highlights the need for further examination by ASI experts.
A C-17 Indian military plane evacuated 283 Indians who were trapped at the Thai-Myanmar border after scam call centers in Myawaddy, Myanmar. Another 240 are expected to be repatriated soon. These Indian nationals were misled with fake job offers and held in poor conditions while being forced into online scams. Authorities coordinated the rescue operation.
Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma caused a political stir by referring to PM Narendra Modi as his favourite actor. Congress used this to criticize Modi, claiming the PM is more of an actor than a leader. BJP defended Modi, asserting the question was about a ‘hero.’ The dispute gained significant attention on social media.
Justice B R Gavai emphasized the integral role of personal data protection in the digital age as part of the right to privacy and life. Addressing challenges like misinformation, online harassment, and emerging technologies, he highlighted the need for judiciaries in developing countries to define limits on digital rights and governmental regulation.
A parliamentary committee has raised concerns over the meagre Rs 575 crore allocation in the 2025-26 Budget for census and NPR updation and recommended completing the census promptly. The panel also suggested establishing a separate central police force to address the surge in cybercrimes and urged the home ministry to seek increased funding for central police forces.
The state’s first Budget after Mahayuti govt’s win reveals a record-high debt of Rs 9.3 lakh crore and a revenue deficit of Rs 45,891 crore for 2025-26. No new major schemes are introduced, focusing instead on existing ones. Local body poll budget allocations have increased, and new taxes are proposed to generate Rs 1,125 crore revenue.
ED conducted searches at former Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel’s premises in connection with a Rs 2,161 crore liquor scam and money laundering involving his son Chaitanya. Assets worth Rs 205 crore have been attached. The searches led to the discovery of significant cash and documents implicating various individuals.