'There is only one Shiv Sena, and it is led by me': Uddhav Thackeray hits back at Amit Shah

Uddhav Thackeray has declared his faction as the sole Shiv Sena, countering Union home minister Amit Shah's statement. Thackeray accused the BJP of attempting to dismantle his party and poach its leaders, contrasting this with the Congress, with whom his party fought for decades but was never targeted for destruction. This comes after the Election Commission recognized Eknath Shinde's group as the official Shiv Sena.

President Droupadi Murmu presented Padma Awards at Rashtrapati Bhavan, honouring 65 distinguished individuals. The ceremony recognized achievements across various fields, including arts, sports, and medicine. Notable recipients included actor Mammootty, singer Alka Yagnik, and cricketer Rohit Sharma. Dr. Padma Gurmet, awarded for his work in preserving Himalayan medical traditions, expressed immense pride for his community.

Ancient wisdom, particularly from Buddhist narratives, cautions against the perils of unchecked desire. Comparable to a monkey frantically grasping at multiple fruits, pursuing countless opportunities may lead to dissatisfaction, causing us to miss out on present value. This age-old admonition, mirrored in proverbs across cultures, encourages mindful choices and focus to attain genuine fulfillment, advocating for a harmony between ambition and valuing what we already hold.

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval expressed 'cautious optimism' regarding the US-Iran MoU, hoping it restores regional stability and strengthens energy security. He highlighted the potential for easing global supply chain disruptions and improving economic prosperity through the Strait of Hormuz. Doval also addressed the world's complex security landscape and the weakening of multilateral institutions, emphasizing BRICS' role in fostering a multipolar order and cooperation among emerg

Trinamool Congress has reshuffled its national working committee, asserting Mamata Banerjee's leadership following a significant electoral setback. This move aims to counter a rebellion by a faction claiming to be the "real" TMC, which appointed its own chairperson. The party has informed the Election Commission of its new office-bearers, with Banerjee remaining chairperson and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee continuing as national general secretary.

Tamil Nadu chief minister Vijay engaged in a heated exchange with the opposition DMK in the assembly, accusing them of misusing party funds and engaging in political opportunism. Amidst disruptions, he mimicked a viral hand gesture associated with former CM MK Stalin, leading to a DMK walkout. Vijay defended his party's alliances and addressed concerns on law and order, asserting his government's commitment to tackling corruption and crime.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval engaged in crucial bilateral talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Iranian security official Ghadir Nezamipour during the BRICS NSA conclave in New Delhi. Discussions focused on normalizing India-China ties and the West Asian security situation. The expanded BRICS bloc grappled with geopolitical tensions and differing member priorities, highlighting the forum's growing influence and challenges.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has sharply criticized Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde, accusing him of "giving birth to traitors" after six rebel Lok Sabha MPs joined Shinde's faction. Raut's remarks, including a reference to a "Cesarean surgery," came as Shinde declared "Operation Tiger complete" following the induction of the MPs. This marks another significant split within the Uddhav Thackeray camp.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with Iran's deputy defense secretary Ghadir Nezamipour in New Delhi, discussing the Middle East's security landscape, BRICS cooperation, and bilateral ties. This meeting occurred on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS National Security Advisers' Meeting, which India is hosting. Discussions also touched upon global challenges, terrorism, and the evolving nature of security threats.

A devastating fire swept through a coaching-cum-gaming zone in Lucknow's Aliganj area on Monday afternoon, claiming the lives of at least 12 young students. Fourteen fire tenders battled the blaze that erupted around 3 pm. While authorities are investigating the exact origin, the incident has sent shockwaves through the city, with many others reportedly injured in the tragedy.

A devastating fire swept through a coaching-cum-gaming zone in Lucknow's Aliganj area on Monday afternoon, claiming the lives of at least 12 young students. Fourteen fire tenders battled the blaze that erupted around 3 pm. While authorities are investigating the exact origin, the incident has sent shockwaves through the city, with many others reportedly injured in the tragedy.

Rajasthan ATS apprehended a woman in Jaipur for alleged ties with Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed and other anti-national elements. Investigations revealed her social media accounts and phone contained objectionable content and links to foreign profiles, including those displaying extremist symbols. She reportedly converted to Islam after guidance from a Pakistan-based Mufti and was allegedly being prepared for travel to Pakistan. Booked under UAPA, she is in ATS custody.

India is set to launch its first indigenous hydrogen fuel-cell train on the Jind-Sonipat route, joining an elite group of nations. This 10-coach train, powered by a 1200kW engine, emits only water vapor, offering a clean alternative to fossil fuels. A dedicated hydrogen storage and refueling facility is operational in Jind, with maintenance planned in Delhi. This move significantly bolsters India's green mobility and net-zero emission targets.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has accused Delhi Police of obstructing protesters at Jantar Mantar, demanding the Union Education Minister's resignation over the NEET-UG paper leak. Dipke alleged police are using Aadhaar card checks to deter participants and highlighted the lack of basic facilities, including water supply to restrooms, for demonstrators. The protest has entered its third day.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has accused Delhi Police of obstructing protesters at Jantar Mantar, demanding the Union Education Minister's resignation over the NEET-UG paper leak. Dipke alleged police are using Aadhaar card checks to deter participants and highlighted the lack of basic facilities, including water supply to restrooms, for demonstrators. The protest has entered its third day.

Six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs are officially joining the Eknath Shinde-led faction today, significantly boosting the ruling party's strength in the Lok Sabha. This move marks a major blow to Uddhav Thackeray's party, with the rebels citing ideological differences and proximity to Congress as reasons for their departure. The split intensifies political turmoil, as the Shinde camp welcomes the MPs, continuing its 'Operation Tiger'.

Congress leader Pawan Khera has strongly criticized the BJP, dubbing the recent defection of Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs to Eknath Shinde's faction as "Operation Keechad." He questioned the BJP's motives behind allegedly "stealing" MPs from opposition parties, suggesting it could be an attempt to alter the constitution. This move follows a similar setback for the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, where several MPs also shifted allegiance.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has strongly criticized six Lok Sabha MPs who are reportedly shifting allegiance to the Eknath Shinde faction. Thackeray accused them of betraying voters' mandate and selling their loyalty for political gain, calling their actions a 'shocking example of dirty politics.' The move deepens the internal crisis for Uddhav Thackeray's party, with disciplinary action anticipated against the absent MPs.

Protesters at Jantar Mantar, led by Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke, are demanding the restoration of water supply and better facilities amidst their sit-in over the NEET-UG paper leak. Dipke also criticized police for questioning those donating supplies. The group, seeking compensation and the Education Minister's resignation, vows to continue their protest until their demands are met, highlighting widespread public support for the cause.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor faced internal party criticism for his remarks on Kashmir's progress towards normalcy and for praising PM Modi's stance on civilian sailors' safety. Critics questioned his engagement with party members and ground realities in Kashmir, while another party leader sarcastically questioned his interpretation of Modi's statements. Tharoor defended his comments, citing widely published reports and emphasizing concern for Indian lives.