The Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government has amended the 1909 Excise Act, lifting a 116-year-old ban on the sale of country liquor in areas near tea gardens. The decision, aimed at boosting state revenue and regulating alcohol trade, has sparked concerns over potential social and safety implications, particularly for women. Critics argue that increased alcohol accessibility could lead to a rise in crimes against women and domestic violence. The opposition has strongly condemned the move, while the government insists it will implement strict regulations to prevent misuse. The amendment marks a significant shift in state excise policies.  

On March 14, 2025, a significant amount of unaccounted cash was reportedly discovered at the official residence of Justice Yashwant Varma, a sitting judge of the Delhi High Court. This incident has reignited attention on his alleged involvement in the 2018 Simbhaoli Sugar Mill fraud case. Prior to his judicial appointment, Justice Varma served as a non-executive director of Simbhaoli Sugars Ltd, a company accused of misappropriating a ₹97.85 crore loan intended for farmers, leading to a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) FIR in which he was listed as the tenth accused. The recent cash discovery has prompted the Supreme Court to initiate a preliminary inquiry and order his transfer to the Allahabad High Court. Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya of the Delhi High Court expressed shock over the incident, underscoring the judiciary's commitment to integrity. 

As of March 21, 2025, Nagpur police have arrested 14 more individuals, raising the total arrests to 105, including 10 juveniles, following violent clashes triggered by rumors of a 'chadar' with holy inscriptions being burned during VHP protests. The violence injured 34 police officers and five civilians, with significant property damage. Authorities have registered three new FIRs, including sedition charges against Fahim Khan of the Minorities Democratic Party. Curfew remains in place in several areas as police deploy 18 special teams to identify and apprehend nearly 1,000 suspects caught on CCTV.  

A 12-hour Karnataka bandh is underway today, March 22, led by Kannada Okkoota to protest the alleged assault of a KSRTC bus conductor in Belagavi for not speaking Marathi. The incident has reignited Kannada-Marathi tensions over the disputed Belagavi region. While the Karnataka government opposes the bandh due to ongoing student exams, KSRTC and BMTC unions have extended support, affecting public transport. Schools and colleges are closed, but essential services remain functional. Security has been tightened in sensitive areas to maintain order, highlighting the deep-rooted language and territorial disputes between Karnataka and Maharashtra.  

The Allahabad High Court Bar Association (HCBA) has expressed strong opposition to the proposed transfer of Justice Yashwant Varma to their bench. In a recent resolution, the HCBA criticized the move, stating, "We are not a trash bin." They highlighted concerns over Justice Varma's alleged "arbitrary, biased, and high-handed" judicial conduct, particularly citing instances where orders detrimental to advocates were issued without proper hearings. The association has urged the Chief Justice to intervene, seeking the suspension of Justice Varma's judicial duties pending a transparent inquiry. They warned of potential protests, including boycotts, if corrective measures are not implemented. This development underscores escalating tensions between the judiciary and legal practitioners, emphasizing the need for judicial accountability and adherence to natural justice principles.

A fire at the official residence of Delhi High Court Justice Yashwant Varma on March 14 led to the discovery of a substantial amount of cash. At the time, Justice Varma was not present, and the fire brigade and police, responding to the incident, found the cash in one of the rooms. This finding prompted Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna to convene an emergency meeting of the Supreme Court Collegium, which unanimously recommended Justice Varma's transfer back to his parent court, the Allahabad High Court. The Collegium is also considering initiating an in-house inquiry, which could lead to further actions, including possible impeachment proceedings.

The Ministry of Defence has given initial approval to military modernisation proposals worth Rs 54,000 crore. Key upgrades include the Army’s BrahMos missile regiments, enhancing strike range to 450 km, and the acquisition of six Netra AEW&C aircraft for the Air Force. Additionally, T-90 tank engines will be upgraded, and the Navy will receive advanced torpedoes and anti-aircraft missiles. These initiatives aim to strengthen India’s defense capabilities and address procurement delays. The final contracts will be negotiated in the coming years as part of ongoing modernization efforts.

Police in Uttar Pradesh have arrested Rajnish Kumar, a 50-year-old professor accused of sexually abusing students. He allegedly recorded the assaults and used the videos to blackmail victims for more sexual favours. Kumar, the Chief Proctor of Seth Phool Chand Bagla PG College, was on the run for 72 hours before his arrest. Authorities found over 65 videos on his phone, some uploaded online. He also took bribes to change exam marks and secure jobs. Police say his crimes began in 2008. Victims came forward after an anonymous letter exposed his abuse.

Violent riots broke out in Nagpur after the release of Chhaava, a Bollywood film about Hindu warrior Sambhaji and Mughal ruler Aurangzeb. Angry crowds clashed, leading to injuries and property damage. Police arrested 51 people and launched criminal cases against many others. A curfew has been imposed to restore order. Politicians had earlier made strong speeches about Aurangzeb, increasing tensions. Social media rumours about religious desecration worsened the situation. Opposition parties blame the government for creating communal issues. With growing divisions in India, concerns rise over peace and unity in the country.

Renowned dog breeder S. Satish from Bengaluru has reportedly purchased a Czechoslovakian Wolfdog for a record-breaking ₹50 crore, making it the world's most expensive dog. The hybrid breed, developed from German Shepherds and Carpathian wolves, is known for its intelligence, agility, and wolf-like appearance. Satish, owner of Cadaboms Kennels, has previously made headlines for acquiring rare and high-priced breeds. The astronomical price has sparked curiosity in the pet world, highlighting India's growing luxury pet market.