India's Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has blocked the release of Santosh, the UK’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars, citing concerns over its portrayal of misogyny, Islamophobia, and police brutality. Directed by British-Indian filmmaker Sandhya Suri, the film explores systemic discrimination, caste violence, and anti-Muslim sentiments. The CBFC demanded extensive cuts, which Suri called "impossible" to implement. Santosh premiered at Cannes, earned a BAFTA nomination, and won Best Actress at the Asian Film Awards. The ban has sparked controversy over artistic freedom in India’s film industry. (PC: Seen From Santosh)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced 'Sahkar Taxi,' a cooperative-based ride-hailing service aimed at benefiting drivers directly. The initiative aligns with PM Narendra Modi’s 'Sahkar Se Samriddhi' vision and ensures drivers retain full earnings without intermediaries. The announcement follows allegations of discriminatory pricing by Ola and Uber, prompting government scrutiny. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) is investigating pricing disparities based on users’ phone models. Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi called such practices "unfair" and vowed to examine pricing strategies in other sectors, including food delivery and ticketing platforms. (PC: India Today)

    The Chipko Movement, originally focused on forest conservation, inadvertently played a significant role in the demand for a separate Uttarakhand state. The movement's leaders, like Chandi Prasad Bhatt and Sunderlal Bahuguna, gained international recognition for their environmental advocacy. Though its primary aim was tree protection, Chipko’s methods and leadership inspired political movements for Uttarakhand’s statehood. The movement's influence continues, exemplified by the naming of schemes after Gaura Devi, one of its central figures. The Chipko leaders’ contributions to both environmentalism and regional political change remain vital to Uttarakhand’s history. (PC: The Print)    

Mumbai Police have summoned stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra for the second time following a complaint by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel over a parody song allegedly mocking Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. Kamra’s video satirized the Shiv Sena and NCP splits, sparking controversy. While the BJP-backed complaint led to police action, opposition leaders questioned why the ruling party remained silent on Kamra’s jokes about PM Narendra Modi. They accused the BJP of selective outrage, highlighting inconsistencies in its stance on free speech. Kamra has defended his satire, asserting his right to criticize political figures.

A gold dealer from Ballari has been arrested for allegedly assisting Kannada actress Ranya Rao in disposing of 14.2 kg of smuggled gold worth ₹12.56 crore. Rao was caught at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on March 3, 2025, upon her arrival from Dubai. Investigators uncovered the dealer’s role in facilitating the illegal transaction, marking a major breakthrough in the smuggling probe. Authorities suspect a larger smuggling network is involved, with more arrests likely as the investigation continues. The case has drawn significant attention due to Rao’s alleged involvement in the gold trade. (PC: The Hindu)  

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar has enforced strict security measures ahead of Alvida Namaz and Eid-ul-Fitr to ensure peace and order. Authorities have banned the introduction of new traditions during the celebrations. Sensitive areas will be closely monitored using drone cameras and high-resolution CCTV. A structured zone and sector plan will deploy police and magistrates strategically. Security forces will also engage with religious leaders and monitor social media to prevent the spread of provocative content. The measures aim to maintain communal harmony and prevent any untoward incidents. (PC: India TV)    

Comedian Kunal Kamra alleged that T-Series restricted the visibility of his stand-up special, "Naya Bharat: A Comedy Special," on YouTube over copyright claims. Kamra argued that his parody falls under fair use as he didn’t use original lyrics or instrumentals. This follows his satirical song mocking Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, which led to vandalism at his show and a defamation complaint. Kamra has been summoned by Mumbai police but refuses to apologize, defending his right to political satire. The controversy has ignited a debate on free speech and artistic freedom in India. (PC: CNBC TV 18)    

Comedian Kunal Kamra released a parody video of the song Hawa Hawai, criticizing Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and the BJP-led government. The video, titled Aapka Tax Ka Paisa Ho Raha Hai Hawa Hawai, mocks traffic issues, collapsing bridges, and tax burdens on the middle class. Kamra, facing defamation charges, dropped the video as Mumbai police issued a second summons over his ‘traitor’ remark on Eknath Shinde. The lyrics call out "dictatorship" and link Sitharaman to high taxes and economic policies. Kamra remains defiant, continuing his political satire despite legal troubles. (PC: X/@KunalKamra88)

On March 14, 2025, a fire broke out in a storeroom attached to the residence of Delhi High Court Judge Justice Yashwant Varma. Though the fire was reported at 11:30 PM and extinguished by midnight, Delhi Police headquarters only learned about it eight hours later. The delay in communication has raised concerns about lapses in police response mechanisms. The Commissioner of Police was informed the next morning, with the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court being alerted by 4:50 PM on March 15. An investigation is underway to address the breakdown in information relay. (The Indian EXPRESS)

The proposed 8th Pay Commission could lead to salary increases of up to ₹19,000 per month for central government employees, benefiting approximately 5 million staff and 6.5 million pensioners. Currently, a mid-level employee earning ₹1 lakh monthly might see their salary rise to ₹1,14,600 with a ₹1.75 lakh crore allocation, ₹1,16,700 with ₹2 lakh crore, and ₹1,18,800 with ₹2.25 lakh crore. While there's no official announcement yet, experts anticipate the commission's formation in April 2025, with recommendations possibly effective by 2026 or 2027. (PC: NDTV)