Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar are summoned to Delhi by Rahul Gandhi for a damage-control meeting following the Bengaluru stampede that killed 11 RCB fans. The Congress party faces criticism for allegedly shifting blame, prompting the high command to seek a detailed briefing on the administration's response.
Home minister Amit Shah highlighted significant progress in India's economic revival, social justice, and national security under the Narendra Modi government. Data indicates a substantial decrease in terrorism-related incidents in Jammu & Kashmir, Naxal violence, and Northeast insurgency between 2014-2024 compared to the preceding decade, alongside successful operations against insurgents and peace agreements.
DRDO has transferred technology for nine land systems and weapon platforms to both defence PSUs and private companies, boosting indigenous defence production. This includes tech for mounted artillery guns to Bharat Forge and CBRN reconnaissance vehicles to BEL.
India is witnessing a resurgence of COVID-19, with over 6,000 active cases and six deaths reported in the last 24 hours. Kerala, Gujarat, West Bengal, and Delhi are the most affected states. The Union health ministry is conducting mock drills and instructing states to ensure the availability of essential resources.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the Royal Challengers Bengaluru felicitation. This was despite a stampede near Chinnaswamy Stadium. Eleven people died and 56 were injured. Siddaramaiah claimed he learned of the deaths later. He said the Karnataka State Cricket Association organized the event. A DCP letter surfaced warning of security risks. It highlighted inadequate personnel for a large gathering.
On Eid-ul-Adha, Srinagar's Jamia Masjid was locked, and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was placed under house arrest, preventing devotees from offering prayers, which sparked criticism from various political figures, including Omar Abdullah. Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid Srinagar reported the mosque's closure and police deployment. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq expressed his dismay over the continued restrictions on religious practices in the Muslim-majority region.
An all-party Indian parliamentary delegation, led by Shashi Tharoor, briefed US officials on cross-border terrorism and India's Operation Sindoor, launched after the Pahalgam attack. The US reaffirmed its support to India in combating terrorism. Discussions included deepening bilateral cooperation, with senators expressing solidarity. The delegation addressed the US media, highlighting India's resolve against terrorism emanating from across the border.
Following the inauguration of the Vande Bharat Express, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq urged PM Modi to bridge the 'dil ki doori' by releasing Kashmiri prisoners, emphasizing that human connections are more vital than infrastructure.