On Wednesday, Harjot Singh Bains, Punjab's education minister, announced that AI will be introduced as a mainstream subject from Class I to XII under the 'Sarbat.AI' project. The curriculum, developed after studying international best practices and aligned with UNESCO’s Ethical AI Framework, will roll out in phases starting with Classes VIII to XII, benefiting 25,172 schools and nearly 31.5 lakh students.

Thousands of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) supporters protested in Delhi against education reforms and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, despite police violence that injured dozens. India's opposition Congress party, led by Rahul Gandhi, joined protests outside PM Modi’s house on Tuesday, demanding Pradhan and Home Minister Amit Shah's resignations. Pradhan criticized Congress for politicizing student issues, while protesters maintained a round-the-clock sit-in at Jantar Mantar. Protests spread to other cities like Mumbai and Hyderabad.

On Tuesday, July 21, 2026, Sharad Pawar, president of the NCP (SP), and Arvind Kejriwal, chief of AAP, visited the Cockroach Janta Party's protest site at Jantar Mantar to support their agitation against alleged examination irregularities. They condemned Monday’s police crackdown on the party's march to Parliament. Supriya Sule accompanied Mr. Pawar during his visit where he met injured protesters and movement members.

On July 21, 2026, Rahul Gandhi, Sharad Pawar, and Arvind Kejriwal visited the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) protest site at Jantar Mantar to support their agitation over alleged examination irregularities. The Delhi police filed four FIRs against unknown individuals for Monday's protests, while supporters ordered food ranging from pizzas to thaalis for protesters. Activist Sonam Wangchuk was discharged from Safdarjung Hospital and moved to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram.

Several protesters injured during a police crackdown on the CJP-led march to Parliament returned to Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Tuesday, some still visibly hurt. Teachers, students, and workers like Ajit Singh, Hammad, and Karan recounted being hit with lathis and tear gas while fasting or sitting peacefully. Despite injuries, they vowed to continue protesting against educational injustices until demands are met.

On Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi led an Opposition sit-in near Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence to protest paper leaks and demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Police broke up the protest within three hours, detaining top leaders including Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. The government claims it agreed to discuss the issue in Parliament but alleges Gandhi reneged on this agreement by insisting on Pradhan's resignation.

Rahul Gandhi is protesting outside PM Modi’s residence, urging support for student justice, while AAP leaders accuse him of undermining the issue. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) demands Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and backs Rahul Gandhi. AAP criticizes his approach, claiming he should protest at Jantar Mantar instead. CJP continues its protests in New Delhi despite police action.

On July 19, 2026, Abhijeet Dipke's Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) organized a protest at Jantar Mantar ahead of its "Chalo Sansad" march to Parliament on July 20. The event drew nearly 20,000 supporters and featured solidarity visits from actors Shabana Azmi and Prakash Raj, among others. Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, announced he would end his hunger strike if leaders met him at Safdarjung Hospital and addressed education accountability in Parliament.
Sonam Wangchuk, a 59-year-old activist, began an indefinite hunger strike on June 28 at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar to demand education reforms and the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. On his 21st day, police hospitalized him. This follows India's tradition of fasting for social causes, exemplified by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, and Irom Sharmila.

On July 18, 2026, Sonam Wangchuk, on a 21-day hunger strike demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, was forcibly taken to Safdarjung Hospital by police after mobile internet shutdown at Jantar Mantar. His wife Gitanjali J. Angmo and lawyer were barred from visiting him. The Delhi High Court ordered health monitoring but not hospitalization. Abhijeet Dipke, Cockroach Janta Party founder, vowed to continue protests despite his own detention. Opposition leaders criticized the move, urging more support for the cause.

On the eve of Parliament’s monsoon session, Opposition parties united to criticize the BJP government for moving activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital while on a hunger strike. The Congress, AAP, and other opposition leaders accused the government of arrogance and repression, citing Delhi High Court directions that allowed the move due to health concerns.

Punjabi Hindus, numbering over 10.6 million or 38.49% of the electorate, blend Hinduism with reverence for Sikhism and interfaith traditions. In 2022, AAP won 15 out of 22 Hindu-majority seats, surpassing Congress and BJP, which secured 5 and 2 seats respectively. Efforts to polarise this electorate have been ineffective due to their fluid religious identity and diverse caste composition.

On July 18, 2026, Arvind Kejriwal criticized the Centre over Delhi Police shifting activist Sonam Wangchuk to a hospital due to deteriorating health. Sanjay Singh, an AAP leader, alleged police used force and criticized the move, while Saurabh Bharadwaj accused police of blocking camera views during the operation. Delhi Police stated they acted on medical advice and court orders. Wangchuk had been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 over NEET examination irregularities.

Sonam Wangchuk, a 59-year-old activist, was removed from Jantar Mantar and taken to Safdarjung Hospital after a 20-day hunger strike demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET paper leaks. Police acted on a Delhi High Court order for daily health checks due to Wangchuk's deteriorating condition, with slight commotion reported during his removal. Wangchuk is conscious and stable in hospital.

Sonam Wangchuk, a 59-year-old Indian activist, was forcibly removed from his 20-day hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi by police on Saturday. He had been protesting for educational reforms alongside the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and was taken to a hospital under a court order citing health concerns. Wangchuk refused to end his fast despite growing calls, planning to join a march to parliament. The CJP began as an online movement against exam irregularities and now demands Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

The AAP said PM Narendra Modi turned an official event in Jalandhar into a political attack on the Punjab government, defending Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s absence. During the function, Modi criticized law and order issues and alleged misuse of funds by the AAP government. The party responded by accusing the BJP of hypocrisy and highlighting pending Central dues to Punjab.AAP media in-charge Baltej Pannu said the Centre owed Punjab nearly Rs 50,000 crore.

On July 17, 2026, Sonam Wangchuk, a climate activist and educator, vowed to "stay alive till July 20 at any cost" during his 28-day hunger strike against alleged examination irregularities. Despite doctors warning of critical health risks, Wangchuk refused to end the fast without government response. Congress leader Pawan Khera visited him, showing solidarity. The protest, initiated by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on June 20, demands resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and compensation for student suicides.

On July 16, 2026, Sonam Wangchuk's fast drew support from leaders like Delhi's former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, SP MP Dimple Yadav, and Congress leader K.C. Venugopal at Jantar Mantar. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) planned a July 20 march to Parliament. Various political parties and celebrities backed Wangchuk’s demands for dialogue on education issues and Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Arvind Kejriwal, national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party, called for Dharmendra Pradhan's removal as Education Minister and Sonam Wangchuk's appointment during a visit to Jantar Mantar on July 16. Wangchuk leads protests over NEET exam irregularities since June 28 and is in critical condition after losing nine kilograms from an indefinite hunger strike. The Supreme Court Bar Association appealed for him to end his fast, while the Delhi High Court ordered daily health monitoring.

The Delhi government is considering leasing the former Chief Minister's residence at 6 Flagstaff Road, dubbed "Sheesh Mahal" by the BJP, to a luxury hotel or hospitality operator to generate revenue. The property will remain available for official use and could be rented out privately when not needed. Additionally, the Public Works Department plans to complete an unfinished camp office next to the residence for government functions, with potential private bookings during vacancies. This move aims to reduce maintenance costs while generating income. The proposal requires government approvals.

The Nagpur Cyber Police registered FIR No. 0092/2026 against several social media content creators for allegedly defaming Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and misleading the public about the government's E20 fuel policy through false statements on YouTube and Instagram. The complaint, filed by BJP Nagpur City Social Media Cell Convener Shishir Arun Tripathi, cited Sections 356, 352, 296 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000. Joint Commissioner Navinchandra Reddy confirmed the ongoing investigation into posts by Manish Kashyap, Desi Boys, Harshit Rathi, and Anklesh Inwati.

On July 15, 2026, Shashi Tharoor, a Congress MP, appealed to activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his fast at Jantar Mantar over alleged NEET exam irregularities. Tharoor urged the government to engage in dialogue and said Parliament would address issues from July 20. Wangchuk has been fasting since June 28, with his health deteriorating despite appeals from leaders like Mamata Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav, and Arvind Kejriwal.

On July 14, 2026, protests at Jantar Mantar demanding Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation saw larger crowds than the previous day. Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has lost 8.5 kilograms during his hunger strike, was urged by various figures including Kejriwal, actors, and academics to end it. Over 1,800 people signed a petition supporting this call. Three students from AISA ended their fast, with one hospitalized. Wangchuk refused calls to stop, citing the government's lack of dialogue.

On July 12, 2026, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched a nationwide signature campaign demanding strict punishment for those involved in chanda chori from the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. At Japanese Park in Rohini Sector 10, AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal addressed devotees and urged them to organize Hanuman Chalisa recitals and collect signatures on a letter he was sending to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Delhi BJP President Harsh Malhotra called the event a "political gimmick." Senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia emphasized ensuring harsh punishment for those involved in the theft, so no one dares commit such acts again.

A 4.5-magnitude earthquake struck the Bay of Bengal off Andhra Pradesh's Kakinada coast early Sunday, with tremors felt in Visakhapatnam; no casualties or damage reported. In Pune, a four-day rescue operation ended after the last body was recovered from the collapsed waste-to-energy plant, raising the death toll to nine. Arvind Kejriwal invited people to attend a Sunderkand recital at Japanese Park in Delhi’s Rohini for prayers and a nationwide signature campaign against alleged temple robbery. Meanwhile, three alleged shooters linked to Lawrence Bishnoi were arrested by Delhi Police's Rohini District Special Staff for planning targeted killings.

The Aam Aadmi Party will launch a pan-India signature campaign on Sunday demanding the execution of those who stole from the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, accusing the Centre of protecting culprits. A letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be signed by people across India. Eight junior workers have been arrested while efforts are made to shield powerful individuals. The AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal urged followers to attend a recitation and support the campaign. Published July 11, 2026.

Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi Chief Minister, will see his residence at 6 Flagstaff Road transformed into a state guest house and cultural center. The property, which has been unoccupied since Kejriwal's resignation in October 2024, will be modernized with amenities like parking and a waiting hall. The government plans to use the bungalow for official guests, delegations, and senior officials from India and abroad, charging a fee. This redevelopment comes after scrutiny of the renovation costs during the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections, which saw accusations of corruption against Kejriwal.

BJP chief Nitin Nabin addressed the party's Shakti Kendra Sammelan in Lucknow, promising action against allegations of theft and embezzlement at the Ram temple. He criticized the Congress, SP, and AAP for questioning the RSS, BJP, and VHP, calling them hypocrites who previously questioned Lord Ram's existence. Nabin emphasized his own family's commitment to Hindu faith and vowed to protect it against any attempts to harm it. He asserted that the BJP, RSS, and VHP would not allow anyone to undermine the faith linked to the temple.

Uddhav Thackeray launched a "Ram Raksha" agitation, accusing the BJP of temple theft and vowing to protect Hindu faith. Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, countered by saying Thackeray's political decline stemmed from abandoning "Lord Ram's path." The BJP also accused opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Arvind Kejriwal of having a history of insulting Hinduism.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab is planning to build a Luv-Kush temple at the Ram Tirath pilgrimage site, costing approximately Rs 150 crore. The project, announced by Arvind Kejriwal, aims to expand the party's reach beyond its traditional Sikh and rural voter base. The AAP has been increasingly reaching out to the Hindu community in Punjab, with both Kejriwal and Chief Minister Mann attending several Hindu events. The temple is expected to be funded by the state Tourism Department and will likely draw comparisons to the BJP's Ram Temple project.

The Congress party has retained Amarinder Singh Raja Warring as the state chief and Partap Singh Bajwa as Leader of Opposition, signaling continuity ahead of the 2027 assembly elections. Former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi was appointed chairman of the Campaign Committee to lead the election drive. The appointments aim to balance social and regional representation while reducing internal rivalry, ensuring unity for the upcoming elections against the ruling AAP.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab for reversing its stance on the Centre's VB-G RAM G employment guarantee scheme. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that the change of heart came due to Punjab's deteriorating financial condition and mounting debt, accusing the AAP government of political opportunism. BJP national spokesperson Prem Shukla claimed that the AAP government was pressured by Arvind Kejriwal, the AAP national convenor, to initially oppose the scheme but now embraces it due to impending defeat in the upcoming elections. The scheme provides eligible rural households a statutory entitlement to 125 days of guaranteed wage employment with revised daily wage rates exceeding Rs 300.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann launched the "Satkar Rashi" scheme in Punjab, providing monthly financial assistance to women. The program, designed to improve the lives of 98 lakh beneficiaries, began with three months of payments totaling Rs 9,300 crore. Women across the state received their first installment, with many expressing relief and excitement about its potential impact on their families. The scheme is expected to continue uninterrupted despite political criticism from the opposition who claim it was a tactic to win votes.

A bill to automatically remove ministers, Chief Ministers, and Prime Ministers detained for 30 days is likely to be introduced in the monsoon session of parliament. The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), formed to review the bill, is expected to approve the amended version on July 17th. The Opposition has criticized the bill as undemocratic, arguing that it violates natural justice and allows for political misuse by central agencies.

The Akal Takht, the highest Sikh temporal authority, has requested the Punjab government to re-amend the recently passed anti-sacrilege amendment law. The Akal Takht expressed dissatisfaction with certain clauses of the legislation and urged the government to incorporate Sikh sentiments and eliminate objectionable provisions within a month. The meeting, attended by Sikh Ministers and MLAs, revealed that many legislators had not read the draft before passing the law, highlighting concerns about rushed decision-making.

Kultar Singh Sandhwan, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker, remained silent on social media following Bhagwant Mann's video attack on the Akal Takht. While other AAP leaders reposted the message, Sandhwan chose to stay quiet, potentially due to his constitutional office requiring restraint or a calculated decision regarding political survival. This silence sparked speculation about his intentions and fueled discussions about the significance of symbolism in the ongoing political climate.

Rajendra Pal Gautam, the newly appointed Congress in-charge for Uttar Pradesh, has requested an equal seat-sharing arrangement with the Samajwadi Party for the upcoming assembly elections. Gautam emphasized his desire for an "equal share" of seats and urged Mayawati, the BSP chief, to join forces against the current government. While initial talks between the parties have not begun, Gautam believes a strong alliance can be beneficial for both parties, especially in securing votes from Dalit and Brahmin communities. Gautam's request comes amidst growing tensions between the two parties over seat allocation and influence within the upcoming alliance.

The Congress in Punjab criticized the AAP government's notification of the VB-G RAM G scheme, questioning the timing and potential connection to ongoing controversies involving Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, Punjab Congress chief, pointed out that the assembly had unanimously rejected the scheme on December 30, 2025, and asked Arvind Kejriwal for clarification on his approval of the implementation in Punjab. The opposition leader, Partap Singh Bajwa, questioned the sudden reversal of stance by the government and demanded answers from both Mann and Kejriwal.

Champat Rai, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust’s general secretary, and Anil Mishra, a trustee, resigned following the arrest of eight individuals for embezzling funds donated to the Ayodhya temple. Rai, a veteran VHP leader who oversaw the temple construction from 1991 to 2018, has been under scrutiny due to allegations that he refused to share donation accounts with authorities. Mishra, a former government medical officer, has actively participated in temple construction and interacted with media and visitors. Both men stepped down despite facing Opposition criticism.

Inderjit Kaur, Ludhiana Mayor and AAP leader, appointed the sons of two ruling AAP MLAs, Madan Lal Bagga and Kulwant Singh Sidhu, as members of the Finance and Contracts Committee (F&CC) of the Municipal Corporation. The appointments were made despite a resolution passed by the MC House in March empowering the Mayor to nominate the two members, who are first-time councillors. The F&CC holds significant authority over financial and contractual works for the city's development, making this appointment controversial.

Arvind Kejriwal, visiting Punjab for a three-day participation in 'Ek Shaam Bhagwan Shiv De Naam' programs, is facing growing controversy over an alleged video of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann hurting Sikh sentiments. This visit coincides with the Akal Takht's hearing of all Sikh MLAs, including AAP members, on anti-sacrilege legislation. Political analysts suggest that AAP is attempting to shift the narrative from a Sikh religious controversy to broader Hindu outreach. The party's recent expansion of the Tirth Yatra Scheme and plans for cultural events aimed at Hindu voters are seen as attempts to appease this community while navigating a complex relationship with Sikh institutions.

Arvind Kejriwal, national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party, criticized the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Ram Temple donation scam, calling it an "eyewash" and a fraud intended to protect influential individuals. Kejriwal alleged that donations worth billions of rupees have been stolen from the temple, including diamonds, precious stones, and ₹200 crore in cash. He questioned the SIT's formation without an FIR and its lack of investigation power. Sanjay Singh, an AAP Rajya Sabha MP, also appeared before the SIT with documents he claimed contained evidence of corruption.
Chaitar Vasava, an AAP MLA in Gujarat, and seven others were sentenced to seven years in prison for assault and extortion of forest officials. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 25,000 on Vasava. The case stems from allegations that Vasava summoned forest department officials to his home after they directed villagers to clear encroached land. His conviction comes at a politically sensitive time for the AAP in Gujarat, where he has become a prominent tribal leader. The party's national convener, Arvind Kejriwal, claims the charges are false and part of a BJP conspiracy to suppress Vasava's popularity among tribals.

Arvind Kejriwal, the national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), is set to visit Punjab for three days next week to participate in Hindu religious events organized by the state government. The events, titled "Ik Shaam Bhagwan Shiv De Naam," will be held in Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Batala on June 27, 28, and 29 respectively. The visit coincides with ongoing tensions between the AAP government and the Akal Takht, which has summoned AAP ministers and legislators over a controversial video of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The events are being organized by the Punjab Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department and will feature popular devotional singer Hansraj Raghuwanshi.

The Madhya Pradesh UCC committee held a seven-hour consultation with stakeholders in Bhopal, where representatives from various political parties and organizations shared their suggestions. The committee indicated that the draft UCC is expected to be ready by the first week of July. Despite being invited, major opposition parties like Congress, BSP, SP, and AAP did not attend the meeting. Notably, Muslim religious leaders strongly criticized the proposed law, arguing it excludes tribals and should be implemented nationally after a thorough debate in Parliament. The committee member, Shatrughan Singh, stated that both the consultation report and draft UCC will be submitted to the state government by June-end or early July.

Nabin, the BJP national president, addressed a rally in Ludhiana, criticizing Mann's alleged sacrilege video and accusing the AAP government of misusing funds. He stated that Punjabis prioritize their Gurus above all else and will not tolerate disrespect towards them. Nabin also accused the AAP government of neglecting welfare schemes and promoting drug trade while highlighting the BJP's commitment to Punjab's development. Jakhar, former Punjab BJP president, emphasized the sacrifice made by the party in supporting peace and harmony in Punjab. He urged the BJP to shoulder greater responsibility for the state's well-being.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by IAS officer Vijay Vishwas Pant, has completed its preliminary investigation into allegations of embezzlement at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The three-member team is expected to submit its report to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shortly. Opposition parties, including the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Samajwadi Party (SP), have criticized the BJP government over the alleged irregularities, with Arvind Kejriwal demanding an FIR be filed and Sanjay Singh reiterating claims of missing offerings.

Bhagwant Mann, Punjab Chief Minister, rejected the Akal Takht's accusations that he is responsible for a controversial video circulating on social media. He stated the person in the video is not him and accused religious authorities of political motives behind their criticism. Mann also defended his government's anti-sacrilege law, claiming it has upset opponents who failed to enact such legislation themselves. The controversy comes amid an escalating confrontation between the Sikh clergy and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government over the recently enacted law.

BJP has instructed its state units in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Goa to prepare for potential early elections. The party is seeking to maintain momentum from the recent West Bengal victory, believing Hindu consolidation will benefit their prospects in these states. Congress, meanwhile, has received a boost from victories in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka, potentially giving them an advantage if polls are advanced. The BJP leadership remains cautious about any potential challenges and is urging its state units to be prepared for elections.

Bhagwant Mann, Punjab Chief Minister, criticized the possibility of a renewed alliance between the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), arguing it would be opportunistic and detrimental to Punjab. He stated that such an alliance would not be based on ideology or public welfare, but rather on regaining political power after being rejected by voters. While BJP leaders like Capt Amarinder Singh have expressed support for an alliance, the possibility remains speculative with neither party publicly acknowledging negotiations. The potential alliance is fueled by electoral arithmetic and a desire to regain power in Punjab.

India summoned the US charge d'affaires, Jason Meeks, following an attack on a commercial ship off the coast of Oman that left three Indian crew members missing. The incident is the first since President Donald Trump returned to the White House in January 2025 and follows similar incidents involving Indian seafarers in recent months. India condemned the attack, calling for de-escalation of tensions and the restoration of peace and stability in the region. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its concerns about attacks on shipping and civilian infrastructure in the region.

Arvind Kejriwal, the leader of AAP, is facing a challenge in navigating the complexities of governance after his party's 2022 election victory. Images from Patiala show police using force against protesting apprenticeship linemen, reminiscent of a similar incident where Kejriwal personally intervened to resolve a protest by physical training instructors. This recent event has reignited criticism from the opposition and highlights the growing challenges for the AAP government in addressing the concerns of various employee groups who were key supporters during the 2022 elections.

23 opposition parties are expected to meet in Delhi on Monday to discuss their strategy for the upcoming state and national elections. The meeting, called "Janbandhan," will focus on uniting against the BJP and addressing differences between alliance partners. The Congress, AAP, DMK, and TVK are among the parties expected to attend. Mamata Banerjee of the TMC is likely to raise concerns about attacks on her party's leaders in Bengal, while John Brittas of the CPI(M) will address alleged political understanding between the Left and the BJP during the Kerala polls.

Mamata Banerjee, chief of the Trinamool Congress, met with Arvind Kejriwal, convener of the Aam Aadmi Party, in Delhi on Sunday. The meeting, described as "warm," focused on the future direction of the opposition bloc INDIA. The two leaders discussed the road ahead for the group, which will meet on Monday to strategize against the BJP and address differences arising from recent Assembly election results.

Mamata Banerjee, the TMC chief, arrived in Delhi to meet with Arvind Kejriwal and discuss the future of the INDIA bloc. She is facing a potential split within her party as some MPs are reportedly dissatisfied with Abhishek Banerjee, the parliamentary party leader. Sources indicate that a section of MPs may approach Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday, while others are in contact with him to explore options. The rebels have confidence that 20 MPs will join them, but Mamata believes at least 16 MPs will remain loyal to her.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh announced that 23 political parties will participate in the INDIA bloc's meeting tomorrow, with some parties declining attendance due to their own reasons. DMK and AAP, led by MK Stalin and Arvind Kejriwal respectively, are not attending due to political differences and recent alliance changes. The meeting is being held at the Constitution Club in Delhi at the behest of Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee who needs support from the bloc to fight the BJP in Bengal.

The Indian government scrapped capital gains and withholding tax on investment by Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) in government bonds to attract foreign funds. This move is expected to bring billions of dollars into the country, helping bridge a looming balance of payments deficit. The decision comes as India faces pressure to attract foreign investments and stabilize its rupee. The RBI eased norms for state-owned enterprises and banks to borrow overseas, aiming to encourage capital inflows.

Hundreds gathered at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on Saturday to protest irregularities in examinations and demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protest, organized by online youth movement Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), founder Abhijeet Dipke, was a symbolic move as it took place at the site where social activist Anna Hazare began his hunger strike against corruption in 2011. The CJP's first on-ground action follows its rapid rise to prominence online after being inspired by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant's courtroom comment comparing some youth to cockroaches. The protest is part of a long history of demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, which has hosted protests against corruption, farm distress, and other social issues.

Satyabrata Kumar, a former special director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), has opted for voluntary retirement from government service after nearly 12 years with the agency. Kumar oversaw high-profile investigations including those involving Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya, and the Mahadev online betting network. He received approval for voluntary retirement in April and his departure marks the second instance within a year of a senior ED officer leaving government service shortly after exiting the agency. The ED arrested Satinder Singh Bhasin, director of Bhasin Infotech and Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, on charges of money laundering related to alleged cheating of home buyers.
The attack on Abhishek Banerjee, nephew of Mamata Banerjee, has sparked unexpected support for her from across the Opposition, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. This show of solidarity, despite past tensions between the Trinamool Congress and other parties like the Congress, raises questions about the future of the fractured INDIA bloc and its potential to challenge the BJP. The attack has also highlighted the vulnerability of the Trinamool Congress after a devastating defeat in the Bengal Assembly elections.

Dimpy Dhillon, a leading transporter, won the Gidderbaha bypoll for AAP, defeating his nearest rival, Amrita Waring of the Congress. Dhillon secured 71,644 votes, while Waring received 49,675. The victory marks the first AAP MLA from this constituency and follows a week-long postponement of the election. Dhillon's win is attributed to factors such as his previous losses in the area, public sympathy for him, development initiatives by the state government, and a strong campaign led by CM Bhagwant Mann and national convener Arvind Kejriwal.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) swept the Punjab civic body polls, winning 958 of 1,977 municipal wards. The BJP and Congress secured key municipal corporations in Abohar and Kapurthala respectively. Bhagwant Mann, the Punjab Chief Minister, hailed the results as a reflection of public support for his government. However, political analysts cautioned against directly linking the civic poll outcome to the 2027 Assembly polls. Opposition parties accused the AAP government of using official machinery to influence the election.

Rahul Gandhi, Atishi, and other Opposition leaders criticized the Narendra Modi government's handling of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) 2026 after technical glitches caused disruptions at several examination centers across India. The National Testing Agency (NTA) confirmed that a technical glitch by its service provider, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) delayed the commencement of the exam on May 30th. The agency revised the afternoon shift schedule and provided full duration to morning-session candidates.
Abhishek Banerjee, Trinamool Congress national general secretary, was physically attacked by a mob in Sonarpur, West Bengal, while visiting families of post-poll violence victims. The incident occurred after he arrived to meet the family of Sanju Karmakar, a victim of the violence. Local residents shouted "thief" slogans and hurled objects at him. Derek O'Brien, leader of Trinamool in Rajya Sabha, condemned the attack and called for action from the police. Opposition leaders across parties, including Samik Bhattacharya (BJP), Mallikarjun Kharge (Congress), Akhilesh Yadav (SP), Arvind Kejriwal (AAP), and Tejashwi Yadav (RJD), condemned the attack on Banerjee and called for an end to political violence.

Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader, criticized the Prime Minister Narendra Modi administration for disruptions to the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG). The National Testing Agency (NTA) attributed the delays to a technical glitch with its service provider, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). Gandhi accused the government of widespread mismanagement and threatened political consequences from a disgruntled generation. Arvind Kejriwal, national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party, also criticized the prime minister for harming the education system.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and its leader Arvind Kejriwal faced embarrassment after allegations of threats by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and police backfired. Gujarat Police arrested two men, including the party's Vadodara city unit president, for allegedly making a "threat call" to an AAP worker posing as an IB official. The investigation stemmed from a social media post by Kejriwal, who questioned the harassment of workers in Gujarat. The phone number linked to the alleged threat was traced back to Nitin Dobriya, a labor contractor, and his actions were allegedly orchestrated by Ashok Oza, the Vadodara unit president. Gadhvi, the Gujarat AAP president, expressed shock at the incident and stated that the party will take appropriate action if connections or responsibilities emerge in Gujarat.

Despite losing the Bengal election, Mamata Banerjee's stature within the INDIA bloc remains strong. Opposition leaders condemned the assault on her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, by a mob in Sonarpur, South 24 Parganas. Mallikarjun Kharge, Akhilesh Yadav, and Arvind Kejriwal accused the BJP of fostering political violence, while the ruling party denied involvement and blamed the TMC for mischaracterizing public anger. The incident has led to calls for stronger law-and-order measures in West Bengal.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids on the residences of former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his daughter, T. Veena, in Kannur and Thiruvananthapuram, alleging that her defunct firm received substantial monthly retainers from Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL) between 2017 and 2021 without rendering any tangible service. The raids triggered protests across the state, with CPI(M) activists allegedly vandalizing vehicles carrying ED officials. The ED is verifying bank transactions of Ms. Veena while stating no incriminating documents were found at Mr. Vijayan's residence.

Gopal Rai, an AAP leader, and journalist Saurav Das were issued notices by the Delhi High Court in response to a petition seeking contempt proceedings against them for allegedly orchestrating a social media campaign against Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma. The petition also named former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and ex-AAP MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj as parties, alleging that they exerted extra-judicial pressure on the judge through their social media posts. The court has listed the case for further hearing on August 4th after observing that a contempt case is already underway against Kejriwal and others.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) held protests across Punjab against the BJP following the ED's arrest of Punjab Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora on charges of GST fraud. The protests, led by AAP leaders including Hardip Singh Mundian and Mohinder Bhagat, escalated into clashes with BJP workers in Ludhiana and Bathinda. The BJP accused AAP workers of attacking their activists while the AAP condemned the police's alleged inaction.

AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal accused the ED of being a tool for political intimidation, targeting Punjab Minister Sanjeev Arora in raids. Kejriwal claimed that the BJP is trying to break AAP leaders and force them into joining their party, comparing PM Modi's actions to Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb's atrocities. He asserted that the people of Punjab will resist these attacks and teach the BJP a lesson in the 2027 Assembly elections.

The Supreme Court declined to intervene in a Calcutta High Court decision regarding the deployment of central government officials for vote counting in West Bengal, prompting accusations from the BJP that the Trinamool Congress was using the judicial process for political gain. BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi claimed the Trinamool Congress was resorting to desperate measures due to anxiety about a violence-free election in the state. He also criticized the actions of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging she did not trust her own government employees and staff.

Opposition parties in Punjab, including the Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal, have accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of appearing intoxicated during a session of the Vidhan Sabha. They demanded an alcohol test and called for dope testing of all MLAs. Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira urged Arvind Kejriwal, the national convener of the Aam Aadmi Party, to take action against Mann. Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal also accused Mann of being intoxicated at public events and demanded an alcohol test. The Congress Legislative Party has formally written to the Speaker requesting immediate alco-meter and dope testing of all members. Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema refuted the allegations, calling them false and baseless.

Members of the legal fraternity offered differing opinions on Arvind Kejriwal’s decision to not appear before a Delhi High Court judge in the excise policy case. Some lawyers argued that dissatisfaction with judicial orders should be addressed through established legal remedies, while others supported Kejriwal’s decision, citing potential bias and the need for due process. Senior advocate Sajan Poovayya criticized the move as withdrawing from due process, while advocate Gyanant Kumar Singh suggested it was a tactic to challenge the court's ruling after losing the case. However, advocate Prashant Bhushan supported Kejriwal’s decision, arguing that his apprehension of bias is justified.

Seven members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have merged with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), increasing the BJP's strength in the Rajya Sabha to 113 and exceeding the halfway mark for the National Democratic Alliance. This merger highlights the opportunism of AAP and its disregard for democratic institutions, as it follows a pattern of defections from other parties. The Supreme Court is currently reviewing the legality of this merger under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, which prohibits defection by elected representatives.
C.P. Radhakrishnan, the Rajya Sabha Chairman, accepted the merger of seven Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MPs with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), increasing the BJP's strength in the Upper House to 113 and reducing AAP to three members. The move followed a significant political realignment in the Rajya Sabha on April 24th, when seven of the AAP's ten members joined the BJP. Arvind Kejriwal, the AAP national convener, criticized the BJP for betraying Punjabis.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi focused on the Matua community's citizenship concerns ahead of the final phase of West Bengal elections. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held a roadshow in her constituency, Bhabanipur, criticizing voter deletions and the Election Commission-appointed administration. Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi Chief Minister, joined the Trinamool Congress campaign in West Bengal. The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced a stringent security plan for the second phase of the elections.

Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi Chief Minister and convener of the Aam Aadmi Party, joined the Trinamool Congress campaign in West Bengal on Sunday, addressing three rallies in Kolkata and Howrah. His visit coincides with the final days of campaigning for the second phase of the Assembly elections, scheduled to conclude Monday evening. The AAP recently experienced a setback as seven of its MPs switched to the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Swati Maliwal, a former AAP MP, accused her former party of changing its principles and becoming corrupt under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal. She claimed that she was pressured to withdraw an assault complaint against Kejriwal's aide and that more leaders would leave the party. Maliwal joined the BJP after alleging that Kejriwal has become a "common man" who built lavish lifestyles while running the Punjab government through "remote control." Sanjay Singh, an AAP leader, said the party will seek disqualification of the seven defectors from the Rajya Sabha.

Kapil Sibal, a senior Supreme Court lawyer and Rajya Sabha MP, criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI)'s actions in West Bengal ahead of the upcoming elections. He accused the EC and the BJP of working together to suppress the Trinamool Congress (TMC), alleging an "unconstitutional Emergency" and a disproportionate deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Other opposition leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal, have also expressed concern over the situation.

Arvind Kejriwal, leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, criticized the AIADMK for bringing the BJP to Tamil Nadu, claiming it would lead to the dismantling of the party and a loss of progress. He warned voters against supporting the BJP or the AIADMK, stating that their policies would halt the good work being done by the DMK government in Tamil Nadu. Kejriwal praised M.K. Stalin, the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, for his initiatives like the "Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme" and monthly stipends for women and girls.
Political parties in Tamil Nadu are concluding their intense campaigning ahead of the Assembly election on April 23rd. Polling will begin at 7 a.m. that day, with all political functionaries and party workers not eligible to vote required to vacate the area by 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi, and other prominent leaders from various parties have campaigned in the state, while the Chief Electoral Officer has outlined strict regulations for the period leading up to the election. These include restrictions on public gatherings, vehicle usage, and the establishment of polling booths.
Following the defeat of the Women's Reservation Bill in Parliament, Congress and Bharatiya Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leaders praised opposition parties for uniting to block the controversial legislation. Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and A. Revanth Reddy led the charge against the bill, with K. T. Rama Rao blaming the BJP for its failure. Bandi Sanjay accused the Congress of using the bill to weaken southern India, while N Ramchander Rao criticized the bill's defeat as a setback for women's empowerment.
Amit Shah, Union Home Minister, stated that the BJP will address the Gorkha issue in the Darjeeling hills through constitutional means, without dividing West Bengal. Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader, accused the BJP and the RSS of destroying the Constitution with their "hate-filled thinking" while criticizing the TMC for failing to fulfill its promises regarding job creation. Arvind Kejriwal, AAP national convener, is scheduled to visit Tamil Nadu on April 20, 2026, to support DMK and CM M.K. Stalin's campaign.

Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi Chief Minister, requested the Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma of the Delhi High Court to recuse herself from hearing the CBI's appeal in the excise policy case. Kejriwal argued that a "real, grave and reasonable apprehension" of bias existed due to the judge's attendance at events organized by the Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad, a lawyer's body with ideological ties to the BJP-RSS. The Centre opposed the recusal application, calling it "contemptuous" and urging dismissal with costs. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that allowing such applications would set a dangerous precedent and undermine judicial impartiality.

Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, Bhagwant Mann, and the AAP Government in Punjab are at odds over a proposed law to punish sacrilege. The Punjab Congress president criticized the special session called by the AAP government, claiming it is an attempt to distract from their failure to punish those responsible for previous sacrilege incidents. Warring also questioned the sincerity of the AAP's intentions and accused them of using the issue as a political tool. He further pointed out that the law lacks any real deterrent effect without proper punishment.

Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi Chief Minister and leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), appeared before the Delhi High Court to argue for a change in the Bench hearing the CBI's plea against his discharge and that of 22 others in the liquor policy case. Tushar Mehta, Solicitor General representing the CBI, objected to the application, arguing it was frivolous and contemptuous. He also stated that seven individuals had filed applications seeking a different Bench, suggesting a "well thought out design." The court is scheduled to hear the matter on April 13th.
India has the largest youth population in the world, with approximately 40 million students enrolled in universities. Nine UK universities are establishing campuses in India following announcements made by Sir Keir Starmer, aiming to tap into this growing market. These institutions include the University of York, University of Aberdeen, and University of Bristol, offering programs at a lower cost than studying abroad while maintaining UK academic standards. While the move could potentially reduce student reliance on foreign universities, it remains to be seen if it will significantly impact enrollment rates in the short term. However, these campuses are expected to create significant economic opportunities for both British and Indian institutions.
UK universities are expanding their presence in India, aiming to capitalize on the country's growing student population and demand for quality education. The University of York, among nine other institutions, is opening a campus in Mumbai with plans to recruit around 270 students initially. These campuses will focus primarily on business, management, and engineering programs. While the move offers potential benefits for both UK universities facing financial pressures and Indian students seeking higher education, success hinges on factors like affordability, program quality, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure development. The long-term impact of these domestic campuses remains to be seen, but they are expected to contribute modestly to the UK's economy.

CPI(M) and Congress leaders have accused each other of attempting to undermine the traditional Left Democratic Front (LDF)-United Democratic Front (UDF) duopoly in Kerala. V.D. Satheesan, leader of the opposition, alleged that the CPI(M) is aiding the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) by fielding an independent candidate in Palakkad to split minority votes. Ramesh Chennithala, a senior Congress leader, claimed this is just the tip of the iceberg and that the BJP has also influenced other constituencies through puppet candidates. Pinarayi Vijayan, Kerala's chief minister, criticized the Congress for its alleged self-defeating strategies in Delhi and Haryana elections, suggesting it seeks to undermine the national alliance against the BJP.

Laljit Singh Bhullar, a former AAP minister in Punjab, was arrested on Monday for the alleged suicide of Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, district manager of the Punjab Warehousing Corporation. The arrest followed pressure from opposition parties, including the Congress and BJP, who demanded a CBI inquiry into the case. Amit Shah, Union Home Minister, reportedly indicated support for a CBI probe. The AAP government claimed swift action against its own minister in pursuit of justice.

Seeman, leader of the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), discussed his party's election manifesto and leadership style in an interview with The Hindu. He advocated for a shift towards an agriculture-centered economy, emphasizing the need to prioritize food security and self-sufficiency while potentially regulating harmful industries. He also addressed concerns about the NTK's ideology, stating that it is not aligned with Dravidian parties and advocating for a more inclusive approach. Seeman expressed his belief in "benign authoritarianism" as a means of achieving order and stability, contrasting this with the perceived excesses of freedom without discipline.

Seeman, leader of the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), discussed his party's Assembly election manifesto and leadership style in an interview with The Hindu. He advocated for a shift towards an agriculture-centered economy, emphasizing self-sufficiency in food production and job creation through government-led industries. He also addressed the contradiction between decentralization of power and "benign authoritarianism," arguing that strict discipline is necessary for effective governance. Seeman expressed his belief that NTK's goals and ideology are distinct from those of other parties, including alliances with groups like the CPI(M), CPI, VCK, and PMK, which he believes would not align with Tamil nationalist politics. He emphasized his commitment to a "village-centric" economic growth model, focusing on quality education, healthcare, and clean water as drivers for economic prosperity.

## Delhi High Court Chief Justice Refuses Transfer Request in Excise Policy Case The Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court, D.K. Upadhyaya, has denied a request by former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and others to move the CBI's plea against their discharge in the excise policy case from Judge Swarana Kanta Sharma to another judge. Sources say Justice Upadhyaya believes that Judge Sharma was already handling the case according to the court's established roster, and there was no need for an administrative transfer based on personal preference.

## Ladakh Protests Continue Despite Climate Activist's Release Despite the release of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from detention, protests planned for Monday in Ladakh are still expected to go ahead. The Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), representing the region's districts, have maintained their demands for constitutional safeguards including Statehood, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, a Member of Parliament for each district, and filling government vacancies. They argue that meetings with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs have not yielded any concrete results. While the revocation of Wangchuk's NSA detention is welcomed, protests will continue as planned, with organizers expecting 1,000 participants in Kargil on Monday. Opposition parties are criticizing the BJP-led government for the prolonged detention and questioning the use of laws like the NSA.

Amit Shah, Union Home Minister, criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Punjab during a rally in Moga. He accused the AAP of corruption, drugs, and crime, stating that Punjab desires change. Shah emphasized his party's commitment to dialogue with the people of Punjab and highlighted the BJP's upcoming poll campaign in the state. The rally is seen as a significant step in the BJP's bid for power ahead of the 2027 assembly elections.

Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi CM and leader of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), stated that the Punjab government will create a business-friendly environment to compete with China. During the 'Progressive Punjab Investors Summit 2026', he highlighted the success of attracting ₹1.50 lakh crore in investments over four years. Bhagwant Mann, the current Punjab Chief Minister, announced that leading industries such as HMEL, Tata Steel, JSW, Trident Group, and Hero Industries have pledged to expand operations in the state. Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), criticized the AAP government for claiming credit for infrastructure development created during the SAD tenure.
K. Kavitha, president of Telangana Jagruthi, received a notice from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding the Delhi excise policy case in the Delhi High Court. The notice informed her about a petition being presented on March 16, 2026, and she plans to cooperate with legal authorities. The Delhi High Court recently issued notices to several individuals including Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and others who were discharged by the Rouse Avenue Court. The case involves allegations of conspiracy in the Delhi Liquor policy case, which Kavitha was arrested for in March 2024.
Arvind Kejriwal, national convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party, criticized the Centre for a nationwide LPG shortage, stating it could lead to unemployment. He attributed the issue to the reliance on imports from the Strait of Hormuz and highlighted its impact on restaurants and hotels, particularly in Delhi NCR and Bihar.

The Delhi High Court has asked former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, and 21 others accused in the excise policy case to respond to a plea by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) seeking to expunge "unwarranted" remarks made against it by the trial court. The ED argued that the trial court judge's observations were extraneous to the case and prejudiced the agency. The ED also stated that the trial court's order discharging the accused was already challenged by the CBI. The court has scheduled a hearing for March 19th on this matter.
