India

India rejected Pakistan’s claim that it is instigating a proxy war in Afghanistan, condemning such accusations amid escalating border clashes involving Taliban insurgents. Highlighting India’s commitment to regional peace and stability, the government emphasized that any conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan must be resolved bilaterally. India supported calls for calm, dialogue, and cooperation to prevent further destabilization in the strategically sensitive region.

Senior opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Lalu Prasad Yadav have jointly called for urgently resolving seat-sharing disputes within Bihar’s Mahagathbandhan ahead of Assembly elections. Stressing unity against BJP, they urged all parties to prioritize coalition harmony over individual gain. A delayed agreement was risking electoral performance and weakening the opposition’s challenge to the ruling party’s dominance in the crucial state polls.

The Indian government has refuted claims made by former US President Donald Trump about PM Narendra Modi assuring him on a phone call that India would halt Russian oil purchases. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that there was no such conversation and emphasized that India’s energy decisions remain sovereign and independent. This clarification comes amid heightened diplomatic sensitivities and ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding energy trade.

The political tussle over several surveys in Karnataka has escalated, with Congress criticizing Sudha Murthy over alleged irregularities in the Statistics Department, while BJP has accused Congress of politicizing the issue. Both parties continue heated exchanges, seeking to influence public opinion ahead of upcoming elections. The matter highlights the intersection of administrative functioning and political competition in the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Andhra Pradesh was marked by significant announcements including infrastructure projects and welfare schemes aimed at accelerating development. The PM interacted with local leaders and citizens, emphasizing mission-mode governance and inclusive growth. The visit included launch of new initiatives and inspections of ongoing projects, reinforcing central-state cooperation for the state's progress.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal stated that the people of Gujarat will remove the BJP government, branding it ‘arrogant’ and drawing parallels with Congress’s 1990 electoral defeat in the state. Kejriwal criticized BJP’s policies and governance style, positioning his party as an alternative. The speech reflects changing political dynamics ahead of Gujarat’s next elections as opposition parties mobilize to challenge BJP’s dominance.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has confirmed that Nitish Kumar will continue to serve as Bihar's Chief Minister if the NDA wins the upcoming assembly elections. Shah praised Nitish’s leadership and stated that the NDA government aims to continue developing Bihar under his guidance. This announcement is expected to reassure party workers and voters ahead of the fiercely contested polls.

The Congress, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and Samajwadi Party (SP) have officially broken their unified stance against the anti-defection and disqualification bills, adopting a ‘no-contact’ policy regarding opposition coordination. This fragmentation indicates internal disagreements over strategy and leadership, complicating efforts to mount a cohesive challenge to the ruling government ahead of crucial elections.

The Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP), a significant ally of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress in Bihar, has agreed to contest 15 seats as part of the coalition despite prior rumors about a possible exit. This decision aims to strengthen the opposition front against BJP's growing influence. The move highlights efforts towards maintaining electoral alliances amidst Bihar's intense political competition.

Ahead of a planned cabinet reshuffle, all Gujarat ministers except Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel submitted their resignations. The unprecedented mass resignation paves the way for the induction of new ministers and potential realignments within the Bharatiya Janata Party. This move signals efforts to infuse renewed energy and political balance as Gujarat prepares for upcoming electoral challenges.