India

The Central Bureau of Investigation has taken legal action against Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s recent foreign trip, alleging it breached conditions set under bail related to ongoing corruption investigations. The case raises questions about adherence to judicial directives and adds political pressure amidst ongoing governance scrutiny. Legal proceedings are underway to examine the implications of the trip in context of legal compliance.

In a rare political alliance, Narendra Modi, Chandrababu Naidu, Pawan Kalyan, and Nara Lokesh have come together aiming to accelerate Andhra Pradesh’s development trajectory. The leaders plan to synergize their governance experience and influence to drive infrastructure growth, industrial investments, and social reforms, signaling a new chapter for the state’s progress. This alliance emerges as a strategic coalition preparing for impactful governance ahead.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that Chhattisgarh's Abujhmarh and North Bastar areas are now officially declared Naxal-free following the surrender of 170 Maoist cadres. The development is hailed as a major victory for security forces and tribal welfare initiatives in the region. Continued rehabilitation and development efforts aim to sustain peace and enhance governance in these troubled districts.

The Supreme Court has acknowledged altering its decision regarding the transfer of Judge Atul Sreedharan following a formal request from the Central government. The admission comes amid ongoing debates about judicial independence and administrative oversight. The Court clarified that such transfer decisions are procedural and subject to formal orders, emphasizing the importance of transparency and due process in judicial appointments and transfers.

The longstanding rivalry between Nitish Kumar and Chirag Paswan has reignited tensions within the NDA. Disagreements over seat distribution in recent elections and past political alliances have created friction, especially as Nitish remains wary of Paswan’s ambitions and BJP’s influence. The rivalry dates back to the 1990s, with each leader’s political journey shaped by their respective caste-based and regional influences. The discord is threatening NDA unity as Bihar prepares for upcoming polls.

A political deadlock in Bihar’s elections resolved when Congress agreed to a last-minute seat-sharing deal with the Rashtriya Janata Dal, ending a seemingly chaotic alliance formation. The deal allocates key constituencies between both parties to unify anti-BJP votes ahead of the polls, with Congress conceding several seats to RJD in a strategic partnership aimed at maximizing electoral gains.

In the third list of candidates for Bihar assembly elections, BJP has nominated Satish Kumar Yadav to contest against RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav in the Raghopur constituency. The high-stakes electoral battle reflects BJP’s strategy to challenge key opponents directly. The list also includes candidates for other important constituencies, aiming to consolidate BJP’s foothold in the politically crucial state.

India’s passport slipped five places in the 2025 Henley Passport Index, now ranked 89th, as global mobility faces growing geopolitical challenges. Japan retains its top position, offering visa-free access to 193 destinations. The dip reflects changes in visa policies worldwide and underscores the complexity of international travel post-pandemic, affecting Indian travelers’ ability to access certain countries without prior clearance.

The Supreme Court is examining a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) petition seeking to replace the traditional hanging method of execution with lethal injection for death row convicts, citing concerns over human rights and methods’ humanity. The petition argues that lethal injection is a less painful and more dignified method. The court is studying legal, ethical, and procedural aspects before issuing directions.

Tamil Nadu Assembly passed a bill banning Hindi movie hoardings across the state, sparking debate over language politics. The decision, strongly supported by the DMK government led by MK Stalin, seeks to protect Tamil language prominence. Opposition parties criticized the move as divisive while supporters hailed it as a means to preserve linguistic identity amid growing concerns about Hindi imposition in southern states.