Calcutta High Court sees a dispute as Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay accuses Justice Soumen Sen of 'misconduct' over contradictory CBI investigation orders on medical college admission irregularities. Justice Gangopadhyay directs CBI probe continuation and accuses Justice Sen of favoring a political party. The disagreement stems from a petition alleging fake caste certificates, with Justice Gangopadhyay initially ordering the CBI inquiry. The division bench, led by Justice Sen, stays the order, highlighting the petitioner's lack of CBI prayer. The clash intensifies over differing views on the legitimacy of the investigation and the involvement of political interests.

India marked its 75th Republic Day with a grand parade on Kartavya Path in New Delhi, highlighted by a remarkable display of 'Nari Shakti' and the aerial prowess of Rafale aircraft. Breaking tradition, 100 women artists opened the parade with Indian musical instruments. An all-women tri-service contingent, 1,500 dancers, and 265 women bikers showcased unity in diversity and bravery. The Indian Air Force displayed strength with a marching contingent, while the Republic Day celebrations also featured the only serving horsed cavalry regiment in the world. The grand finale included a breathtaking flypast by 46 Indian Air Force aircraft, concluding the historic event.

The Gyanvapi mosque case witnesses a twist as the ASI report reveals a large Hindu temple's existence before the mosque's construction. Lawyers representing the Hindu side express confidence in victory, awaiting clarification on the Shivling-fountain dispute. A structure discovered during a court-mandated survey is contested by Hindus as a 'Shivling' and by Muslims as a fountain. The ASI survey aimed to determine if the mosque was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple. The report's disclosure marks a significant development in the ongoing dispute, with both sides seeking copies of the report following a Varanasi court order.

On the eve of the 75th Republic Day, India honors 34 "unsung heroes" with the Padma Shri award. Parbati Baruah, renowned as "Hasti Kanya," becomes India's first woman elephant mahout. Other awardees include tribal environmentalist Chami Murmu, social worker Sangthankima, and plastic surgeon Prema Dhanraj. The list showcases diverse expertise, featuring organic farmers, coaches, microbiologists, artisans, and performers. Notable recipients include Gaddam Sammaiah, a Chindu Yakshaganam artist, and Babu Ram Yadav, a brass Marori craftsperson. The awards recognize significant contributions across various fields, underscoring India's celebration of exceptional service.

India has categorically dismissed Pakistan's claim of 'Indian agents' being involved in the assassination of two Pakistani terrorists. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) accused Pakistan of spreading false and malicious anti-India propaganda, emphasizing that Pakistan has long been the epicenter of terrorism. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "To blame others for its own misdeeds can neither be a justification nor a solution." Pakistan's Foreign Secretary had earlier alleged "credible evidence" linking Indian agents to the killings. India countered, asserting that such accusations are baseless, and Pakistan will face consequences for its own actions.

Following the Mira Bhayander Municipal Corporation's bulldozer action, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) razes around 40 illegal structures on Mumbai's Mohammed Ali Road. BMC officials state the structures were illegal and the demolition aimed at freeing up footpath space. The action is part of a municipal "deep cleaning" drive to clear pavements. Congress questions the bulldozer approach, deeming it unconstitutional and targeting a specific community. Samajwadi Party MLA suggests political motives ahead of elections. The BMC asserts the move aligns with a broader effort to maintain cleanliness in the city.

On the eve of the 75th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu delivered a poignant address, spotlighting the momentous inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Describing it as a landmark in India's cultural heritage rediscovery, she also touched upon the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam for women's empowerment and praised the successful hosting of the G-20 Summit during India's presidency. The address highlighted the nation's unity, emphasizing co-existence as a source of happiness. President Murmu paid tribute to Karpoori Thakur for enriching public life and acknowledged India's journey into the early years of the Amrit Kaal, leading to the centenary of Independence.

French President Emmanuel Macron, the Republic Day chief guest, commenced his two-day state visit to India with a spectacular roadshow alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jaipur. The leaders, received by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Governor Kalraj Mishra, embarked on a historic route from Jantar Mantar to Sanganeri Gate, making a stopover at Hawa Mahal. The day unfolded with visits to Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar's World Heritage Site, and a planned photo op at the iconic Hawa Mahal. Macron's visit, concluding with a private dinner hosted by PM Modi at Rambagh Palace, caps the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the strategic partnership between India and France. The visit is expected to yield major announcements in defense and strategic sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Jaipur to meet French President Emmanuel Macron. The leaders are set for a roadshow from Jantar Mantar to Sanganeri Gate at 6 pm, followed by a visit to Hawa Mahal. Discussions in Jaipur include announcing a Defence Industrial Roadmap and a groundbreaking Defence Space Cooperation agreement. The leaders will conclude with dinner at Rambagh Palace. Macron's visit aligns with India's 75th Republic Day celebrations, where he serves as the chief guest. Earlier in Bulandshahr, PM Modi inaugurated projects worth ₹19,100 crore, marking his first public appearance post-Ayodhya events.

A culinary clash has emerged in Delhi as Moti Mahal and Daryaganj restaurants grapple over the origin of the famed butter chicken recipe. Moti Mahal, boasting a legacy dating back to Peshawar in the 1930s, credits its founder Kundan Lal Gujral for crafting the iconic dish during the era. Daryaganj, however, claims collaboration with Gujral in post-partition Delhi, asserting their relative Kundan Lal Jaggi's role. The legal tussle includes a $240,000 damages claim by the Gujral family. With the next court hearing in May, the battle to determine butter chicken's true creator remains unresolved.