Wednesday, April 30
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the Northeast's development progress, emphasizing a shift from vote-centric politics to infrastructure investment, social initiatives, and peace-building. Reduced violence, historic peace agreements, and over Rs 5 lakh crore investment in the past decade showcase the region's growing importance in India's future, with improved connectivity and a focus on its cultural and economic strengths.
Maharashtra's three-day special assembly session commenced with the swearing-in of new MLAs. A new Speaker will be elected, setting the legislative agenda for the upcoming winter session. The BJP-led alliance's recent election victory saw Fadnavis as CM, with Pawar and Shinde as Deputy CMs. Portfolio allocation discussions are underway.
Pope Francis is likely to visit India after 2025, following the Jubilee Year celebrations. Union Minister George Kurian confirmed the anticipated visit, stating that both Prime Minister Modi and the Christian community eagerly await the Pope's arrival. An official invitation has already been extended, with the Vatican finalizing the details.
Rahul Gandhi condemned the government's use of tear gas against farmers protesting for MSP guarantees, recalling the 700 farmer deaths during the 2020-21 protests. Haryana police stopped the farmers' march to Delhi, using tear gas and imposing internet restrictions. Farmer leaders criticized the government's actions as a 'moral victory' for the protesting farmers.
A stampede during a football tournament in Nzérékoré, Guinea, tragically claimed 56 lives and injured dozens. Chaos erupted after fans protested a referee's decision, leading to panic among the thousands of spectators. Security forces used tear gas, exacerbating the situation. The tragedy raises concerns about safety and political tensions in the military-led nation.
India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will visit Bangladesh on December 9. He will meet his counterpart and other officials. This visit follows increased violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. Bangladesh recently recalled diplomats from India. An Iskcon priest was arrested. A bus was attacked. Protesters entered the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren allocated portfolios to his newly inducted 11 ministers. Soren retained key departments like Home and Personnel. Six ministers are from JMM, four from Congress, and one from RJD. The cabinet includes ministers responsible for finance, health, education, and other crucial sectors. This follows the JMM-led coalition's victory in the recent assembly elections.
Former JNU student Umar Khalid questioned his UAPA charge in Delhi HC regarding the 2020 Delhi riots, citing others' non-inclusion despite attending the same meetings. His lawyer argued lack of evidence and parity with previously bailed co-accused. Meeran Haider also sought bail based on prolonged incarceration and lack of incriminating evidence.
India closely monitors escalating violence in Syria, ensuring the safety of its citizens. Political turmoil grips South Korea following martial law reversal, with President Yoon facing impeachment. Meanwhile, border tensions with China ease as patrolling resumes along the Line of Actual Control after recent disengagement agreements. The 2020 standoff in Ladakh had severely strained India-China relations, but both sides are now reflecting on lessons from the conflict to prevent recurrence.
