External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar rebuked US criticism of India's Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), arguing it overlooks the historical context of partition. Speaking at the India Today Conclave, Jaishankar highlighted the CAA's intent to address partition-related issues and lamented foreign misinterpretation. He emphasized understanding the complexities of India's history. Jaishankar countered US Ambassador Eric Garcetti's remarks on religious freedom, citing examples of fast-tracked citizenship for minorities in other countries. Defending the CAA, Jaishankar stressed the obligation to partition-affected minorities and called for contextual comprehension amid global scrutiny.

A mob attacked five foreign national students at Gujarat University over the practice of offering namaz on campus. Students from Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, South Africa, and Sri Lanka were assaulted while praying in their hostel rooms. Videos of the attack went viral, showing damaged vehicles and ransacked rooms. Ahmedabad police filed an FIR and assured swift action. Gujarat University's vice-chancellor remained unreachable, while the home minister called for an urgent meeting to address the issue. Two injured students are hospitalized. Authorities are investigating the incident, which underscores tensions over religious practices in educational institutions.      

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has issued the ninth summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the money laundering case related to the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. Kejriwal was granted bail after appearing before the court on Saturday, where he was directed to furnish ₹15,000 for each complaint case. The court also instructed the ED to provide documents related to the complaints to Kejriwal. Meanwhile, BRS leader K Kavitha, accused of involvement in the 'South Group' kickback scandal, has been remanded in ED custody till March 23.      

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for its robust crackdown on corruption during his speech at the India Today Conclave 2024. He emphasized the government's "zero tolerance towards corruption" and asserted the agency's independence in combating graft. PM Modi highlighted a significant increase in cases, seizures, and asset attachments under his administration compared to previous years. Criticizing the opposition, he accused them of baseless criticism and stated that while they indulge in dreams, his government delivers guarantees. The remarks underscored the ongoing political rhetoric ahead of the upcoming elections.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced national polls in Jammu & Kashmir, with assembly elections scheduled after the Lok Sabha polls, citing security challenges. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar stated logistical difficulties in providing security to candidates during concurrent elections. J&K-based parties expressed disappointment over the decision, emphasizing the conducive environment for parliamentary elections. The region, which hasn't seen assembly elections for a decade, will witness polling across five phases for five Lok Sabha seats and one UT seat. The move has drawn criticism and concerns from political figures regarding inclusion in the democratic process.      

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the India Today Conclave, revealed plans for 2047, emphasizing his focus on long-term goals over short-term headlines. He highlighted India's path towards becoming the world's third-largest economy and coined the term "Viksit Bharat" to symbolize the nation's development trajectory. Modi stressed his commitment to deadlines rather than headlines, indicating a shift in national priorities. Additionally, he underscored his government's attention to the neglected Northeast region since assuming office in 2014. This vision reflects Modi's strategic planning and determination to propel India's growth.

Gurugram Police arrested Lallan Yadav for the murder of his live-in partner, Anjali, found dead in an under-construction house. Yadav confessed to the crime, citing anger over her refusal to make egg curry. Anjali, 32, a ragpicker, was discovered in Chauma village. Yadav, 35, hailing from Bihar, was apprehended in Delhi. The duo had no proper identification and were brought to the site by the owner without documentation. Yadav falsely presented Anjali as his wife. The incident occurred on March 10, highlighting gaps in safety protocols and migrant worker verification.

Major liquor manufacturers in India, including Radico Khaitan Limited and Sula Vineyards Pvt Ltd, are among those listed in the Election Commission's release of electoral bond purchases. Between April 2019 and January 2024, these companies collectively bought bonds worth approximately Rs 34.54 crore. Radico Khaitan Limited, a prominent IMFL manufacturer, purchased bonds worth Rs 5 crore in April 2019. Sula Vineyards Pvt Ltd, a leading player in the Indian wine industry since 1999, acquired bonds worth 25 lakh on the same date. The involvement of these companies underscores their financial engagement in the electoral process.

Voting for the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 will take place on June 1 across 57 constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal. With the votes to be counted on June 4, this phase marks the culmination of the extensive electoral process spanning over several weeks. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, alongside new Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, assures readiness for the historic event, with 97 crore eligible voters and robust logistical arrangements in place across 10.5 lakh polling stations.            

Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha elections, set for May 25, will witness voting across 57 constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, and northern regions. Results are expected on June 4. The Election Commission's announcement comes amidst preparations for the highly anticipated electoral process, with nearly 970 million eligible voters and evaluations of state readiness. Political parties, including the ruling NDA and opposition INDIA bloc, gear up for the polls, setting ambitious targets. Past elections underscore BJP's dominance, shaping strategies for the upcoming electoral battle.