Mumbai / The Economic Times
Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief, has declared that his party will resist making Hindi compulsory in Maharashtra, following the state government's decision to mandate Hindi as a third language for students in Classes 1 to 5. Thackeray questioned the necessity of forcing Hindi upon students, emphasizing that his party does not oppose the language itself.
The BJP has accused West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of turning a blind eye to targeted attacks on Hindus, alleging police inaction during riots following protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act. Ravi Shankar Prasad criticized Banerjee's government for insensitivity and accused her of prioritizing vote banks over the safety of citizens.
Singapore's parliament dissolution sets the stage for general elections, where the People's Action Party (PAP), under Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, aims to solidify its long-standing dominance. Despite an expected victory, Wong seeks a stronger mandate after the PAP's reduced majority in 2020.
Following violent protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act in Dhuliyan, West Bengal, security forces, including BSF and CRPF, have been deployed to restore order. Locals recount significant property damage and looting, with one shopkeeper reporting losses of around Rs 20-25 lakh.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders paid homage to the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, remembering it as a dark chapter and a turning point in India's freedom struggle. The 1919 massacre in Amritsar, where British troops fired on unarmed protesters, remains a symbol of courage and resistance.
President Droupadi Murmu's visit to Slovakia highlighted the growing cultural and economic ties between India and Slovakia. She addressed the Indian community, emphasizing the popularity of Indian traditions like Yoga and Ayurveda. Murmu also visited a Jaguar Land Rover factory, noting the successful India-Slovakia partnership exemplified by the Indian workforce there, and participated in a tree-planting ceremony promoting environmental awareness.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Navkar Mahamantra Divas at Vigyan Bhawan, demonstrating reverence by walking barefoot and sitting among the public. He emphasized the mantra's spiritual impact and connection to a developed India rooted in heritage. The event celebrated Jain philosophy, promoting peace, unity, and the timeless teachings of non-violence and self-realization.
An explosion occurred outside the Jalandhar residence of BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia in Punjab around 1 am, prompting a police investigation. Authorities are examining CCTV footage and forensic evidence to determine if it was a grenade attack. Kalia reported hearing a loud noise, initially mistaking it for thunder.
A medical transport helicopter crashed into the sea in southwestern Japan, killing a patient, a medical doctor, and a caretaker. The pilot, a mechanic, and a nurse were rescued and are being treated for hypothermia. The helicopter was en route to a hospital in Fukuoka from Nagasaki when the accident occurred, which is under investigation.
A Russian airstrike on Kyiv killed one person and injured three others, causing fires and property damage. In Kryvyi Rih, the death toll from a previous attack rose to 19, with many children among the casualties. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy urges continued international pressure on Russia amid increasing assaults.
The Bombay High Court emphasized the benefits of 24-hour convenience stores for customers and the economy, ordering Pune Police not to enforce a closure by 11 pm. The court highlighted that no law restricts such stores from operating around the clock, enhancing consumer convenience and creating employment opportunities.
An exchange of fire took place between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district. The operation started late at night and is ongoing. The area is cordoned off with intensified search efforts. Authorities remain on high alert. One soldier was lost in the encounter. Previous operations in the region also saw casualties among police and terrorists.