Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the recent violence in West Bengal during Waqf protests, asserting that "danda is the treatment for rioters." He emphasized the necessity of strict action against those disrupting societal harmony. Adityanath drew parallels between the current unrest and historical invasions, suggesting a persistent divisive mindset. He criticized opposition parties for allegedly fostering caste-based politics that fracture the social fabric. Highlighting incidents in Sambhal and Bangladesh, he claimed a consistent pattern of societal division. His remarks have sparked controversy, with opponents accusing him of deepening societal rifts. The Chief Minister's statements have reignited debates on law enforcement and communal harmony in the region. (PC: NDTV & Mathrubhumi)

West Bengal Minister and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim's recent remarks suggesting that Muslims could become a majority have ignited political controversy. In a viral video, Hakim stated that Muslims, constituting 33% in Bengal and 17% nationally, could, with Allah's grace and education, become the majority. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) swiftly distanced itself from these comments, emphasizing its commitment to communal harmony and stating that such views do not reflect the party's ideology. The BJP condemned Hakim's remarks, labeling them as incitement and drawing parallels to a "Bangladesh-type situation." Hakim later clarified that his comments were about educational empowerment, asserting his secular stance. (PC: Hidco)

BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari claimed over 400 Hindus fled Dhulian, Murshidabad, following violence over the Waqf (Amendment) Act, which allegedly left three dead. Adhikari accused the Trinamool Congress of "appeasement politics" that emboldened radical elements, leading to attacks on Hindus. He urged the Border Security Force, state police, and district administration to ensure the safe return of the displaced. Adhikari shared videos of victims alleging police inaction during the violence. The BSF deployed five companies to assist state police in restoring order. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla criticized the West Bengal government for allowing a breakdown of law and order. The situation is reportedly under control now. (PC: Rediff & Hindustan Times)

Amid violent protests in Murshidabad over the Waqf (Amendment) Act that resulted in three deaths and numerous injuries, Trinamool Congress MP Yusuf Pathan faced backlash for an Instagram post showing him enjoying tea in a serene setting. Critics, including BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala, condemned the post as insensitive, highlighting the contrast between Pathan's relaxed demeanor and the turmoil in his constituency. Social media users questioned his awareness and responsiveness to the crisis. The Calcutta High Court intervened, ordering the deployment of central forces to restore order. Pathan has yet to respond to the criticism. The incident underscores the scrutiny public figures face regarding their engagement during times of unrest. (PC: Mid-day & The Hindu)

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued notices to take possession of assets worth ₹661 crore from Associated Journals Ltd (AJL), publisher of the National Herald, in a money laundering case involving Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi. The ED alleges that AJL misused properties allocated for publishing by using them commercially, and that Young Indian, a company controlled by the Gandhis, acquired AJL's assets through questionable means. Congress has denounced the action as political vendetta, accusing the ruling BJP of misusing investigative agencies to target opposition leaders. The case, initiated by a complaint from BJP leader Subramanian Swamy, has intensified political tensions ahead of upcoming elections. (PC: @dir_ed)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that BJP and AIADMK will jointly contest the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls under Edappadi K Palaniswami’s (EPS) leadership. Speaking in Chennai, Shah stated the alliance would be led nationally by PM Narendra Modi and regionally by EPS. The announcement followed the appointment of Nainar Nagendran as Tamil Nadu BJP chief, replacing K Annamalai. Shah emphasized AIADMK’s longstanding NDA ties and hinted at EPS as the alliance’s Chief Ministerial face. He also accused the ruling DMK of corruption and promised a strong campaign on law and order, women's safety, and anti-Dalit violence. (PC: PTI)

Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) leader Chirag Paswan strongly defended the recent amendments to the Waqf Act, emphasizing their goal of enhancing transparency and inclusivity by allowing non-Muslim representation on Waqf boards. Responding to criticism from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Paswan accused him of practicing divisive politics and misleading the public for political gain. He stated that the reforms will be accepted over time and benefit the broader society. The amendments have triggered political and public debate, with supporters calling them anti-corruption measures and opponents warning of encroachment on minority rights. (PC: News 18)  

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee assured Muslims that her government would protect Waqf properties amid ongoing protests. Speaking at a Jain community event in Kolkata, she said, “Even if you shoot me, I will still participate in every religion, every festival.” Taking a veiled dig at BJP, Mamata asserted that her government won't allow religious division in Bengal. “Jiyo aur jeene do,” she declared, asking minorities to trust her leadership. Protests have erupted over the new Waqf law, but Mamata emphasized unity, secularism, and resistance to communal politics. “I will not let anyone divide Bengal,” she affirmed. (PC: India Today)

TMC leader Mahua Moitra alleged that BJP members threatened Bengali fish and meat shop owners in Chittaranjan Park, Delhi, accusing them of operating near a temple. She shared a video claiming BJP supporters were trying to forcibly shut shops, targeting Bengali culture. Moitra condemned the act as intimidation and communal provocation. The BJP denied the allegations, calling the video misleading and accusing her of spreading falsehoods to polarize voters. Delhi Police have not received a formal complaint but have begun an enquiry. The issue has sparked a political clash ahead of the general elections, drawing sharp public reactions.(PC: India Today)

In a key meeting with the Congress party’s top leadership, Rahul Gandhi strongly reaffirmed that secularism is central to the Congress’s identity and ideological foundation. He emphasized the need to uphold the Indian Constitution and promote unity in diversity. Gandhi drew a clear distinction between Hinduism and Hindutva, stating that the Congress supports the former’s inclusive ethos, while accusing the BJP and RSS of weaponizing Hindutva to polarize society. (PC: ANI)