The Union Home Ministry has prolonged the ban on Jammu and Kashmir Jamaat-e-Islami for another five years, citing its involvement in activities threatening national security. Home Minister Amit Shah emphasizes zero-tolerance against terrorism and separatism, warning of severe consequences for those posing a threat. The initial declaration of Jamaat-e-Islami as an 'Unlawful Association' on February 28, 2019, led to the ban on its activities, accused of promoting separatism. The extension aligns with government efforts to curb such activities post Article 370 abrogation, emphasizing a tough stance on groups sympathetic to separatism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Supreme Court asserts, 'India is taken for a ride by Patanjali Ayurved,' as it warns of potential contempt action. The court criticizes the company for breaking promises on misleading ads, questions government's oversight. IMA alleges smear campaign against Covid-19 vaccination. Patanjali assured compliance in November but accused of violating the undertaking. Bench warns against adverse statements on any medical system. IMA raises concerns over Ramdev's misleading claims about blood pressure medication. Acknowledging violations, the court issues a notice, contemplating contempt proceedings against Patanjali and its managing director.

Maharashtra state in India will inspect fast-food outlets like McDonald's for mislabeling products as containing real cheese when they actually use cheese alternatives. This follows reports of McDonald's using "cheese analogs" instead of real cheese. The inspections will also extend to other major global brands like Domino's, Pizza Hut, Burger King, and KFC. Westlife Foodworld, McDonald's biggest franchisee in India, dropped the word "cheese" from its products' names after the controversy. State authorities have the power to suspend licenses of restaurants found violating food and safety regulations.

Bengal Governor Ananda Bose gave the state government a 72-hour ultimatum to arrest Sheikh Shahjahan, accused of sexual assault and land grab in Sandeshkhali. He threatened to move his base there if no action is taken. The High Court dismissed claims hindering Shahjahan's arrest and stated he should be apprehended. Trinamool leader Kunal Ghosh assured Shahjahan's arrest within seven days. The accused went missing after his supporters attacked an Enforcement Directorate team. Sandeshkhali residents allege Shahjahan and his associates of land grab, extortion, and harassment, including sexual violence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated at a global summit that the world no longer finds it surprising to witness India's achievements, considering it the new normal. Modi emphasized the growing trust in India as the country's most significant recognition. Criticizing past governments, he highlighted the shift from an era of hopelessness, asserting that India now decides and implements decisions swiftly. In the past decade, India has risen to become one of the world's top five economies. Modi concluded that the world acknowledges India's ability to deliver efficiently and on time.

A freight train in northern India rolled unmanned for about 45 miles, reaching speeds up to 46 mph, captured in a viral video. No injuries occurred as emergency brakes and track stones halted the train's journey from Kathua to Hoshiarpur. The pilot and assistant left for unknown reasons, leading to the unmanned ride. Gravity-assisted diversion onto an uphill path aided in stopping. Four suspended, high-level inquiry underway at Kathua Railway Station. India's vast rail network, over 160 years old, faces occasional incidents. Last June, a deadly collision in Odisha claimed 275 lives.

Uttar Pradesh Police resorted to cane-charging a frenzied crowd during Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff's stunt event in Lucknow's Hussainabad. Chaos erupted as fans scrambled for film merchandise thrown by the Bollywood duo, breaking barricades. Videos of the incident went viral, showing police intervention near the Clock Tower. While organizers claim no injuries, locals report some casualties. The actors left abruptly, and police assert control was quickly restored. Heritage enthusiasts express concern over such events at historic sites, citing potential damage. The next hearing for the case is scheduled for March 1.

The Supreme Court issued a stern warning to the government, emphasizing that "women cannot be left out," regarding the denial of a Permanent Commission to women officers in the Indian Coast Guard. Chief Justice DY Chandrachud stated, "If you do not do it, we will do it. So, have a look at that." The court rejected functionality arguments, asserting such reasoning doesn't hold water in 2024. The hearing stems from a plea by a woman Coast Guard officer, with the next session scheduled for March 1. The court previously criticized the Coast Guard's "patriarchal attitude" and urged alignment with Navy and Army policies.

Vijay Shekhar Sharma, founder of Paytm, resigns as non-exec chairman of Paytm Payments Bank, leading to a board reshuffle. Srinivasan Sridhar, Debendranath Sarangi, Ashok Kumar Garg, and Rajni Sekhri Sibal join the new board. The move follows RBI's scrutiny and non-compliance concerns, with a March 15 deadline to wind down operations. Sharma owns 51%, and One 97 Communications holds the rest. New board members aim to enhance governance and operational standards. RBI restricts banking activities but allows interest and refunds. Paytm likely to collaborate with Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, SBI, and Yes Bank for UPI transactions.

The income tax department's investigation into Alkem Laboratories reveals alleged large-scale tax evasion exceeding Rs 1,000 crore. The pharma company reportedly claimed bogus deductions for its Sikkim manufacturing units, leading to potential heavy penalties. Additionally, the probe exposes significant payments made to doctors for prescribing Alkem's drugs. The investigation, initiated in September last year, involved surveys, statements from officials, and scrutiny of financial records. Sources suggest the findings could result in severe consequences for Alkem Labs.