Wednesday, April 30
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has expressed disappointment over the Election Commission of India's (ECI) delayed response to their complaints regarding alleged misconduct by central forces and BJP leaders during the West Bengal bypoll campaign.
Wildlife activists in Telangana express concern over the disappearance of 15-20 tigers from northern tiger corridors since 2013. While forest officials acknowledge the absence in certain areas, they maintain that some tigers have migrated or returned, citing recent evidence. However, the lack of resident tigers in Kawal Tiger Reserve raises concerns about habitat viability.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, speaking in Mumbai, provided insights into Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, describing him as a demanding yet interactive leader who encourages thorough preparation and open dialogue. Jaishankar also emphasized India's confident stance in global politics, asserting that the nation is not apprehensive about potential shifts in US political dynamics.
The Bharatiya Janata Party in Maharashtra released its election manifesto, 'Sankalp Patra,' outlining its vision for the upcoming assembly polls. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other prominent leaders highlighted the achievements of the previous BJP-led government, emphasizing economic growth and infrastructure development as key focus areas.
Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) apprehended the prime suspect, Shiv Kumar, and four accomplices in connection with the murder of Baba Siddiqui. Shiv Kumar, who was on the run since the incident on October 12, 2024, confessed to killing Siddiqui at the behest of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi.
The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes is demanding answers from multiple states and the Union Home Ministry regarding the plight of the Gottikoya tribe. Displaced by Maoist violence in 2005, this tribal community is struggling to survive without social security benefits in their new settlements across several states.
The French Army is considering acquiring India's Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher system. Brigadier General Stephane Richou praised India's emergence as a top weapons producer during his visit for bilateral talks. This interest highlights the growing defense cooperation between France and India, extending beyond commercial ties to encompass joint production and military exercises.
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge accused the BJP of playing politics over the Waqf Board land claims issue. The claims, affecting farmers, temples, and historical sites, have sparked controversy. The government has ordered a halt to land mutation processes and the withdrawal of eviction notices.
India's recent government cleanliness drive, Special Campaign 4.0, proved fruitful, generating over Rs 650 crore from scrap disposal and freeing up significant office space. The campaign, part of a larger initiative from 2021-24, has earned Rs 2,364 crore so far. Over 5.97 lakh sites were covered, reflecting the campaign's growing reach.
Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir were engaged in two separate encounters with terrorists on Sunday. One operation took place in Srinagar's Zabarwan forest area, while the other unfolded in the Keshwan area of Kishtwar. These encounters follow a recent surge in anti-militancy operations in the region.
