The Congress party urged the Indian government to engage the opposition in addressing rising tensions with Canada, emphasizing national unity and transparency. They stressed the shared responsibility of protecting India's global reputation amidst serious allegations by the US and Canada against India. Diplomatic expulsions have ensued.
Baba Siddique, a former Maharashtra minister, was assassinated with six gunshots outside his son Zeeshan's office in Mumbai. Suspects, including two from Uttar Pradesh and one from Haryana, were arrested. The search for the mastermind and other culprits continues, as security and political reactions escalate.
President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir has been revoked paving the way for a new government formation in the union territory. The Union home ministry issued the notification following Omar Abdullah's meeting with the lieutenant governor to stake claim after the recent assembly elections. This change ends the central rule in place since June 2017, post-BJP withdrawal from Mehbooba Mufti's coalition government.
BJP faced a tough defeat in Pir Panjal region, securing only one of eight assembly seats in Rajouri and Poonch, attributed to political dynamics post-abrogation of Article 370, polarisation over the Pahari quota row, and rising terrorist activities. National Conference and Congress dominated the remaining seats.
Omar Abdullah of the National Conference is set to stake his claim to form Jammu & Kashmir's first elected government since its union territory status, with support from 49 MLAs, including Congress. The decision follows a crucial party meeting and amidst concerns of potential defections reminiscent of past political upheavals. Congress's weakened position remains a focal point.
The Indian government has approved a major project to build two nuclear-powered submarines and acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator drones from the US, costing around Rs 68,000 crore, to counter China's regional activities. The submarines and drones will enhance India's intelligence, surveillance, and defensive capabilities.
After President Droupadi Murmu sent messages to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the 75th Anniversary of China, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning emphasised the country's willingness to strengthen communication and mutual trust with India, aiming to promote a stable development of the China-India relationship.