General news

In a heartfelt gesture symbolizing the deep-rooted friendship between Bhutan and India, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck dedicated a stupa to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This event took place in Gelephu Mindfulness City, where 108 stupas are being raised. Union minister Kiren Rijiju represented India, conveying PM Modi's gratitude. The stupa, numbered 76, represents the strong ties shared by the two nations.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has discussed the protection of civilian shipping with Russia, Ukraine, and European nations. Efforts are being made to restore grain exports through the Black Sea, which have significantly declined. Additionally, the safety of energy infrastructure and fuel shipments is a major concern amid the ongoing conflict. Different interpretations of energy infrastructure complicate discussions on protection measures.

BJP organized a protest march in West Delhi's Hari Nagar demanding an apology from Congress for the 1984 anti-Sikh violence. Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri described the killings as a well-planned genocide rather than a riot. Several leaders participated in the march, expressing concerns over Congress's perceived failure to acknowledge the tragedy. The protest coincided with the opposition's rally addressing electoral irregularities on the same day.

BJP leader Nitin Nabin accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of furthering foreign agendas at a rally in Haryana. Nabin criticized Congress for claiming democracy is at risk only when it loses elections in multiple states. He challenged allegations regarding voter deletion and past election irregularities linked to the party’s leadership. Nabin emphasized the need for governance based on the Constitution rather than dynastic politics.

Sanjay Raut asserted that the rally by the INDIA bloc in Delhi would not disrupt business activities. He emphasized that this event signifies the people's demand for a change in government. Supporters of various political parties began gathering for the rally, which aims to address alleged voter roll tampering. The demonstration is expected to attract significant participation amid security measures by the police.

Union minister JP Nadda accused Congress and Rahul Gandhi of attempting to destabilize the government and create unrest. Nadda labeled the opposition's rally at Ramlila Maidan as a calculated conspiracy against democracy and the economy. He outlined a model of politics involving misinformation and provoking protests. The INDIA bloc, however, claims to mobilize for democratic rights concerning alleged electoral roll irregularities.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed India's diplomatic commitment regarding the Ukraine conflict during discussions in Atlanta. His talks included priorities such as protecting civilian shipping and restoring crucial grain exports. Jaishankar also emphasized the need for energy security in light of ongoing disruptions. He met with counterparts from Russia, Poland, and South Korea to address bilateral and multilateral issues.