Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has issued a warning that his country could use nuclear weapons against Ukraine if it faced aggression, including attacks using conventional weapons. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between the two nations, with Ukraine seeking permission from the UK and US to target Russian bases with long-range cruise missiles and supersonic battlefield range missiles. Russia’s ally China has called for calm, with President Xi Jinping cautioning against the use of nuclear weapons. This statement from Putin has sparked concerns about the possibility of a nuclear conflict in the region.
On National Press Day, Indian Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw acknowledged the nation's extensive media presence, with over 35,000 registered newspapers, multiple news channels, and a rapidly growing digital infrastructure. This recognition highlights the crucial role of media in promoting democracy and disseminating information to the masses.
The city of Imphal was thrown into chaos on Saturday as a mob attempted to storm the private residence of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The incident, which comes after the murder of three individuals in Jiribam district, sparked violent protests in the capital city and demand for justice. In response, the government has imposed a curfew in Imphal and suspended internet services in seven districts. The situation remains tense as the authorities continue their efforts to maintain order.
Mumbai's Members of Parliament (MPs) are already strategizing ways to tackle the city's pressing issues, such as congestion at subway stations and slum rehabilitation projects. This comes after the cabinet's decision to request the transfer of salt pan land for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project on a lease basis. However, Shiv Sena leader Rahul Shewale has accused the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government of trying to create hurdles in the project by making baseless allegations against the Adani Group.
In the aftermath of violent clashes during the Chevayur Service Cooperative Bank election, where Congress party members and CPM-backed rebel factions were involved, the Congress party has called for a hartal in Kozhikode district. The election which was meant to be a peaceful democratic exercise turned chaotic, with police intervention and accusations of irregularities. Congress MP M K Raghavan has accused CPM of supporting the rebel factions and criticized the authorities for turning a blind eye to the situation.
BJP spokesperson Sandeep Varier's defection to the Congress in the final phase of the campaigning for the Palakkad bypoll has come as a major blow to the BJP's State leadership. Varier, who hails from a significant electoral community in the Palakkad constituency, was reportedly one of the top choices for the party's candidate. However, he publicly expressed his displeasure over the candidate selection and garnered ire from the State leadership for his controversial social media posts. The Congress, on the other hand, saw Varier's defection as a political jackpot and welcomed him to their party, sensing a better chance at winning the bypoll.
As campaigning for the Maharashtra Assembly elections comes to an end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not hold back in criticizing the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress. He accused the Shiv Sena of giving its remote control to the Congress and challenged them to get the party to praise the late Balasaheb Thackeray. Modi also slammed the Congress for being desperate for power and highlighted the reduced number of terror attacks in India under his government.
Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, has resigned following the release of a report exposing a cover-up of child abuse by John Smyth in the Church of England. Smyth was not brought to justice before his death in 2018, leading to increasing pressure on Welby. The resignation comes after private discussions with King Charles, who is the supreme governor of the Church of England.
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, expressed his deepest condolences for the loss of innocent children in a devastating fire at a medical college in Uttar Pradesh. The District Magistrate confirmed that the fire, believed to be caused by an electrical short circuit, broke out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. President Droupadi Murmu and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have also voiced their grief and directed officials to provide proper treatment to the injured infants.
After securing a historic win in Haryana, the BJP has shifted its focus and strategy for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections. With a strong emphasis on reaching out to non-dominant communities and ensuring unity among its allies, the party aims to address anti-incumbency and secure a comeback after a disappointing performance in the Lok Sabha elections. The party's focus on issues of identity and tackling alliances with the opposition, along with appealing to the core Shiv Sena voter base, could prove to be advantageous in their endeavor for a successful campaign.
Vinh Dang, a 54-year-old from Oklahoma City, was arrested by Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police after being caught with 150 pounds of marijuana. He was released on bond the following day but could face up to 20 years in prison if found guilty. This incident highlights ongoing debates and conflicts surrounding marijuana legalization and enforcement in various states.