The Indian government has banned two Kashmir-based groups, AAC and JKIM, for five years under UAPA, citing threats to national security. The groups are accused of advocating Kashmir’s secession from India. Leaders of both organizations and other political figures in Kashmir have condemned the ban.
In J&K, liquor sales are increasing despite political pressure for prohibition due to concerns over alcohol abuse. The government projects a 4% rise in excise revenue, while various political parties, including PDP and BJP, push for a ban. The new excise policy seeks a balanced approach addressing both the harmful effects of alcohol and the development of the liquor industry.
US President Donald Trump has downplayed the priority of a human mission to Mars, despite earlier support for Elon Musk’s colonization vision. This shift in stance coincides with Trump asserting final authority over staffing and policy decisions, ahead of a Space X Starship explosion.
Jammu & Kashmir’s chief minister, Omar Abdullah, announced the formation of a committee under chief secretary Atal Dulloo to create a plan for the regularization of daily wagers. Emphasizing the importance of this issue, Abdullah criticized the opposition for their previous lack of action and highlighted the budget’s focus on prioritizing welfare measures within limited resources.
The Shaheed Bhagat Singh Front and Vishwa Hindu Parishad have launched a campaign urging the Delhi government to ban the sale of tobacco products within 100 meters of temples, gurudwaras, and other religious sites. They have also recommended setting up a monitoring cell to ensure implementation and curb ongoing violations around religious sites to safeguard public health.
The Lok Sabha has approved additional government spending of Rs 51,463 crore for the current financial year, primarily for repaying high-cost debt and providing financial aid to Manipur. This includes provisions for Manipur’s 2025-26 budget, with estimated receipts at Rs 35,368 crore and expenditures at Rs 35,104 crore.
Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi in Lok Sabha demanded a statement from Prime Minister Modi over his discussions with US President Trump on trade and tariffs. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman responded by accusing the opposition of frequently abusing the PM and demanded an apology.
Amit Shah has announced an investment of Rs 2.5 lakh crore for the northeastern states, ensuring job opportunities within the region in the next 10 years. Under Modi’s leadership, a 153% budget increase for the northeast and improved connectivity aims to end insurgency and promote development.