BJP's Rajya Sabha candidate list omits Union ministers Ravneet Singh Bittu and George Kurian, fueling cabinet reshuffle speculation. Notably, no outgoing MPs were renominated, with organizational functionaries securing berths. The party is yet to announce candidates from Jharkhand and Karnataka, leaving room for potential ministerial retention.
Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju dismissed claims of discrimination against minorities in India as propaganda and a malicious campaign. He highlighted a significant increase in the ministry's budget over the past decade, from Rs 1,949 crore to Rs 4,115 crore, as evidence of the government's commitment.
National Conference plans a New Delhi protest for statehood and "constitutional guarantees," believed to refer to Article 370. Rebel MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi expressed willingness to join, urging a broader movement and outreach to opposition parties for sustained public support in the Valley.
The Trinamool Congress faces a significant internal crisis in West Bengal, raising questions about its national parliamentary strength and its role within the INDIA bloc. With a crucial opposition meeting scheduled, Mamata Banerjee's party is strategizing to maintain unity among its MPs and counter the BJP's influence amidst these developments.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened a strategy session with National Conference MLAs and MPs at Dachigam National Park. The meeting concluded with a call for a protest in New Delhi during Parliament's monsoon session, demanding the restoration of J&K's statehood. The party also resolved to push for a ban on liquor in the region.
Shots were fired outside educator Khan Sir's coaching institute in Patna, injuring a security guard. The incident is suspected to be linked to rivalries between local coaching institute operators. The injured guard is receiving medical treatment, and authorities are gathering statements to further investigate the physical assault.
Former J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti urged political parties and civil society to unite for dialogue with the central government, drawing inspiration from Ladakh's successful engagement. She called for an all-party meeting to address the region's despair and uncertainty, emphasizing the need for a broad consensus post-2019.
Starting next April, carmakers must test new vehicle mileage with and without air conditioning, a move by the government to offer consumers more realistic fuel efficiency figures. This transparency aims to empower buyers' decisions. Existing models will receive an extended compliance period. The new norms apply to both petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles, reflecting India's distinct driving conditions.