Politics / The Times of India
The Union home ministry clarified that the central government has no plans to introduce a bill altering Chandigarh's governance or administrative structure in the upcoming Parliament session. This statement followed a political controversy over a proposal to bring Chandigarh under Article 240 of the Constitution, which had sparked concerns about Punjab's rights over the city.
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhgam chief Vijay resumed his poll campaign in Tamil Nadu, challenging the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision and criticizing the MK Stalin government for loot and dynasty politics. Vijay emphasized his party's focus on moving education to the state list and conducting a caste census, contrasting it with empty promises on NEET.
Fifteen children and seven adults were hospitalized in Sikar, Rajasthan, after inhaling toxic fumes near an industrial area. Preliminary investigations suggest the fumes originated from a furnace burning clothes. Authorities are investigating the incident, and affected children are reported to be in stable condition.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described his G20 Summit participation in Johannesburg as fruitful, sharing key proposals on sustainable development, countering drug-terror nexus, and empowering African youth. He advocated for a global repository of traditional knowledge and a swift global health response team.
Two recent deaths at the National Defence Academy (NDA) have sparked urgent introspection into cadet selection and training. The tragic loss of two first-term cadets, one by suicide and another in a drowning incident, highlights immense adjustment pressures. Experts call for systemic reforms in physical and psychological assessments to ensure cadet safety without compromising toughness.
Proposes Tutoring 1 Million Certified Trainers Over Next Decade
The Leh Apex Body (LAB) has submitted a draft proposal to the Centre, demanding general amnesty for climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and other detainees following the Sept 24 violence. This amnesty is deemed crucial for smooth continuation of talks, alongside demands for statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh.
The Indian Air Force mourns Wing Commander Namansh Syal, who tragically died in a Tejas jet crash at the Dubai airshow. A video tribute showcased a solemn send-off, honoring his dedicated service and exceptional skill. This incident marks the second Tejas crash in under two years, raising concerns about the indigenous aircraft's safety record.
The Union ministry of mines has awarded Uttarakhand an additional incentive of Rs 100 crore under the Special Assistance Scheme for Capital Investment (SASCI) for the year 2025-26, recognising the state's achievements in minor mineral reforms.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the Election Commission and BJP of colluding to remove over 50,000 votes in constituencies won by INDIA bloc parties during the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. He alleged this targeted political preparation, using the Special Intensive Revision exercise, is focused on Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. And urged citizens to verify their voter enrollment.
Prime Minister Modi engaged in diplomatic exchanges at the G20 Summit, while UP CM Yogi Adityanath ordered action against unauthorized residents. The BJP criticized the Congress over Shashi Tharoor's remarks on political civility. Meanwhile, cricketer Yashasvi Jaiswal set a unique record, and the Centre notified four consolidated Labour Codes.
In the early 1980s, Jangarh Singh Shyam's art on a mud wall in Patangarh village was recognized as contemporary art by J. Swaminathan. This led to the global emergence of Gond painting, though many insist on calling it Jangarh Kalam to honor its individual creator and revolutionary style.
Uttar Pradesh's chief minister, Yogi Adityanath, has directed district officials to crack down hard on anyone illegally residing in the state, stressing the importance of maintaining order and safeguarding national security. Plans are in motion to set up temporary holding facilities for these identified individuals while arrangements for their removal are made.
US President Donald Trump again claimed credit for easing India-Pakistan tensions, stating he brokered peace deals and that PM Modi assured him of no war. India, however, consistently dismisses third-party mediation, with the conflict stemming from Operation Sindoor following a deadly attack. Trump's claims come as he met with New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor lauded the meeting between Donald Trump and Zohran Mamdani, highlighting it as a democratic ideal of post-election cooperation for national interest. Tharoor expressed a desire for similar bipartisan engagement in India. The meeting, despite past animosity, focused on New York's pressing issues like housing and affordability.
An Indian Air Force Tejas fighter jet crashed during an aerobatic display at the Dubai Airshow on Friday, resulting in the death of pilot Wing Commander Namansh Syal. The aircraft reportedly failed to recover from a negative-G turn, plunging to the ground and erupting in flames. This marks the second crash of the Tejas fighter since its induction.
A viral Instagram video shows a US-based couple explaining why they moved to India after 17 years. The woman says motherhood, short maternity leave and rising healthcare costs made life stressful. She says India offered quicker care, easier access to doctors and stronger support, giving their young family more balance and peace of mind.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated that the world wouldn't exist without Hindus, citing the community's enduring identity. During his visit to Manipur, he urged unity and character-building for peace, emphasizing solutions within the constitutional framework and dialogue based on oneness. Bhagwat also acknowledged historical roots of regional tensions in colonial policies.
The Supreme Court affirmed that the right to a speedy investigation is a fundamental right, stating that accused individuals cannot face endless suffering under the threat of ongoing probes. While not setting strict timelines, the court emphasized that inordinate delays can lead to the quashing of cases, benefiting the accused, victim, and society.
Retiring CJI B.R. Gavai highlighted his judgment against ulldozer justice as his most significant, emphasizing its conflict with the rule of law and the right to shelter. He also cited the ruling allowing sub-classification of SCs and STs for reservations as crucial for addressing genuine inequality, quoting Ambedkar on the nuances of equality.
4 Codes Replace 29 Laws; Rules Within 45 Days
Authorities are now establishing clear, measurable standards to define commuter inconvenience on national highways. This move aims to determine when toll collection should be suspended or reduced on poorly maintained stretches, addressing public outcry and judicial observations. A dedicated panel will submit its findings within a month to ensure accountability for road quality.
The Centre's implementation of four labour codes, a significant reform post-farm laws, aims to prepare industry for global uncertainty and extend social protection to unorganized workers. Despite trade union protests, the government is confident of garnering support from millions of contractual and platform workers who have been largely neglected.
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea challenging a Bombay High Court ruling that the Workplace Harassment Act doesn't apply to advocates. The court issued a notice of appeal, emphasizing that professional bodies should have internal complaints committees to ensure a safe workplace for women in the legal profession.
Trade Unions Also Come Out Against Move
Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir thwarted a potential terror plot in Handwara, recovering M4 rifles and other ammunition. A joint operation in the Neeriyan forest area led to the discovery of a major hideout. Separately, police are inspecting doctors' lockers in medical institutions to prevent misuse.
A police report submitted to a judicial magistrate's court found no evidence of negligence by Shrine Board officials in the deaths of over 30 pilgrims during an August landslide. The action taken report stated no offense was established against the authorities, though a final report from a three-member committee is still awaited.
A judicial commission investigating the Sept 24 Leh violence has warned against threatening eyewitnesses, assuring confidentiality for those who come forward. The commission, formed after demands from local political groups, is urging people to share information freely before hearings begin. Evidence submission is open until November 28.

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