Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh emphasized that peace talks must safeguard the state's territorial integrity and protect indigenous populations. Speaking at the BJP office in Imphal, he reiterated Home Minister Amit Shah's commitment to preserving Manipur's unity. Singh highlighted concerns over attempts by illegal immigrants to disrupt the demographic balance. He affirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's track record of implementing promises, citing the lifting of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act from select areas. Singh urged support for BJP's Inner Manipur candidate and emphasized the importance of peace talks between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was visibly moved after viewing the 'Surya Tilak' ceremony for Ram Lalla on his tablet post an Assam rally. The event, held at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, marked a historic moment as sunlight adorned the idol's forehead. PM Modi hailed the historic moment of Ram Navami and Lord Ram's seating in the temple after 500 years. He encouraged participation by switching on mobile flashlights in reverence. The ceremony, facilitated by a team of scientists, symbolized a significant milestone in the Ayodhya temple's journey.

In Ayodhya, preparations are underway for Ram Navami at the newly built Ram temple, marking Lord Ram's birth. This year's celebration is special due to the temple's recent completion. The ceremony will include Surya Abhishek, where the Sun's rays will touch the deity's forehead, adding to the divine ambiance. The event promises grandeur, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.

In Chhattisgarh's largest anti-Maoist operation, 29 rebels, including senior leader Shankar Rao, were killed in a gunfight in Hapatola forest. The joint team of BSF and DRG engaged in the operation, resulting in three injuries. A video captured the tense jungle encounter, with gunfire erupting suddenly. The footage highlights the perilous conditions faced by security personnel as they navigate the dense terrain. This significant blow to Maoist forces underscores ongoing efforts to combat insurgency in the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm wishes to the nation on Ram Navami, expressing joy and gratitude on this auspicious occasion. He noted the significance of this year's celebration, being the first since the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Modi highlighted the historic moment of Ram Lalla's enthronement in the grand temple and emphasized the reverence for devotees and saints who dedicated their lives to its construction. Ayodhya, he said, is immersed in unparalleled joy, marking a significant milestone after centuries of anticipation.

Ayodhya's Ram Mandir gears up for Ram Navami as the Sun prepares to kiss Ram Lalla's forehead in a unique Surya Tilak ceremony on April 17. Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, engineers design an apparatus of mirrors and lenses to focus sunlight on the deity, blending tradition with technology. The ritual, a first for Ram Lalla on Ram Navami at the newly built temple, highlights the significance of the event, rooted in ancient practices. The ceremony's precision showcases the intersection of science and spirituality, drawing global attention to Ayodhya's cultural heritage.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauds security forces for eliminating 29 Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Kanker. Shah vows to eradicate Naxalism nationwide, crediting government policies and security efforts for limiting its spread. He assures a Naxal-free future under PM Modi's leadership. The encounter occurred during an anti-Naxal operation by BSF and DRG, resulting in one BSF injury. Since December 2023, 68 Naxals have been neutralized in Bastar. Elections in Naxal-hit Bastar are scheduled for April 19 and 26. Shah's commitment signals a decisive stance against Naxal insurgency, aiming for peace and security in affected regions.

The Supreme Court, hearing petitions seeking cross-verification of EVM votes with VVPAT slips, raised concerns over ballot paper voting. Justice Sanjiv Khanna stated, "We all know what happened when there were ballot papers," pointing to issues caused by human intervention. The court questioned the need for complete VVPAT slip counting, asking, "Yes, 60 crore VVPAT slips should be counted. Right?" It observed that while machines can be manipulated, human involvement often leads to problems like biases. The SC sought the Election Commission's response on the EVM voting process, storage, and punishments for tampering, noting no specific provisions exist currently.

The Centre has constituted a six-member committee, headed by the Cabinet Secretary, to examine various issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community. The move comes after the Supreme Court's verdict on same-sex marriage, which directed the government to form a panel to ensure the queer community's rights are safeguarded. The committee, comprising top bureaucrats, will explore measures to prevent discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in accessing goods, services, and social welfare schemes. It will also look into ways to protect them from violence, harassment, coercion, and involuntary medical treatments. The panel's formation reflects the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of the queer community.

In Chhattisgarh's Kanker district, a fierce encounter occurred between security forces and Naxals. The operation, led by the Border Security Force (BSF) and District Reserve Guard (DRG), resulted in the demise of 29 Naxals, including a prominent leader named Shankar Rao. Rao had a hefty reward of Rs 25 lakh on his head, as per police sources. During the clash, three soldiers were wounded, and 18 bodies were recovered so far. The skirmish unearthed a significant arsenal, including seven AK-47 rifles and three light machine guns. The situation remains tense, with a possibility of more casualties.