The political landscape in India is abuzz with activity. Here are the highlights:
- Congress Releases MP Manifesto: Congress kickstarts its campaign for the upcoming Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections with the release of its “Vachan Patra” (manifesto). The manifesto promises various guarantees, including implementing the Old Pension Scheme, free electricity, monthly aid for women, farm loan waivers, and affordable LPG cylinders.
- Rahul Gandhi in Mizoram: Rahul Gandhi began his election campaign in Mizoram, addressing the ongoing crisis in Manipur and targeting the BJP.
- Punjab Marks CM Mann’s Birthday: To commemorate Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s 50th birthday, all districts in Punjab are holding blood donation camps. The CM is participating in an Akhand Paath at his native village of Satoj in Sangrur district.
- Supreme Court to Deliver Same-Sex Marriage Verdict: The Supreme Court is set to deliver a highly anticipated judgment on same-sex marriage validation pleas. A five-judge Constitution bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, is responsible for this landmark decision.
- Delhi Excise Policy Cases: The hearing in the Delhi excise policy cases continues. The Supreme Court has questioned when the CBI and ED will begin presenting their arguments against former Delhi deputy chief minister and AAP leader Manish Sisodia in the trial court. The agencies are also contemplating making the AAP an accused in the corruption and money laundering cases linked to Delhi’s scrapped excise policy.
- BJP Protests in Karnataka: The BJP stages a major demonstration in Bengaluru and other cities in Karnataka, accusing the Congress government of corruption after the seizure of over Rs 50 crore in cash in recent Income Tax raids. The BJP alleges that the seized money has links to the Congress and claims the “ATM government” of the Congress is amassing funds for upcoming Assembly elections in five states.
- Global Maritime India Summit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the third edition of the Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS) via video conferencing in Mumbai. He unveils ‘Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,’ a blueprint for the Indian maritime economy’s long-term growth.
