Congress leader Rahul Gandhi welcomed the Centre’s decision to include a caste census in the next national census, claiming the move aligns with the Congress party’s long-standing vision. He called for a clear timeline and urged the removal of the 50% reservation cap, labeling it an "artificial barrier." Gandhi praised Telangana's model over Bihar’s, proposing it as a national blueprint. He emphasized that the caste census is only the first step toward reshaping India’s development model. The Congress also called for enforcing Article 15(5) to implement reservations in private educational institutions, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive growth and social justice. (PC: India Today)

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, mourning the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, said, "I won't demand statehood over dead bodies." Addressing a special Assembly session, Abdullah deferred political demands out of respect for the victims, stressing that human lives must not become political bargaining chips. He read the names of the deceased, praised local heroes like Adil who saved tourists, and highlighted Kashmiris' spontaneous protests against terrorism. "Militancy will end when people support us," he said. Abdullah also thanked Indian states for protecting Kashmiri students facing backlash after the attack, underlining unity in a time of grief. (PC: India Today)

The Supreme Court on Friday sternly warned Rahul Gandhi against making derogatory remarks about freedom fighters, particularly VD Savarkar, calling his past comments "irresponsible." The bench, while staying a UP trial court's summons, said Savarkar is "worshipped" in Maharashtra and cautioned Gandhi of consequences if such statements continue. The court also hinted it could take suo motu action for future remarks. Rahul Gandhi was not present, as he was visiting victims of the Pahalgam terror attack in J&K. Meanwhile, the BJP criticized Gandhi, calling the court’s comments a stern warning, not relief. Proceedings continue over the complaint filed in Uttar Pradesh. (PC: PTI)

Following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, opposition leaders expressed unity with the government during an all-party meeting. “Everyone condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The opposition has given full support to the government to take any action,” said Rahul Gandhi. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized the need to maintain peace in Jammu and Kashmir. TMC and AAP leaders raised concerns over security lapses and demanded strong action. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh briefed leaders on the response measures. India has since revoked Pakistani visas and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty as part of its retaliation. (PC: ANI)

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 civilians dead, the Union Government has called for an all-party meeting on Thursday at 6 PM in the Parliament annexe. Chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the meeting will be briefed by Home Minister Amit Shah and attended by top cabinet ministers. The meeting aims to discuss India’s security response and unify political consensus on counter-terrorism strategies. Earlier, PM Modi led a Cabinet Committee on Security review, and India suspended the Indus Water Treaty, shut the Attari border, and downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan. (PC: PTI)

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, speaking at Delhi University, reinforced his criticism of judicial overreach and asserted the supremacy of Parliament. He emphasized that elected representatives are the "ultimate masters" of the Constitution, not the judiciary. Citing conflicting Supreme Court rulings on the constitutional status of the Preamble, Dhankhar questioned judicial consistency. He urged democratic discourse and accountability, warning that silence could endanger democracy. His remarks follow recent criticism from BJP leaders over perceived judicial encroachment, and a Supreme Court comment expressing concern over such accusations during a hearing on President's Rule in West Bengal.(PC:India Today)

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has clarified that there is no formal alliance yet between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, calling the current developments "emotional talks." The speculation comes after Raj Thackeray expressed readiness to work with Uddhav for Maharashtra’s interests, while Uddhav responded positively, urging Raj to distance from “anti-Maharashtra” forces, hinting at the BJP. Raut emphasized that the decision to form an alliance lies with the cousins themselves. The potential reunion gains significance amid growing opposition to the state government's move to make Hindi compulsory in schools, sparking concerns over Marathi identity and regional pride. (PC: India Today)

In the wake of recent violence in West Bengal, the BJP has countered Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's allegations of the party inciting riots, questioning the spontaneity of the mobs involved. Banerjee accused the BJP of employing a "divide and rule" strategy, suggesting that the violence was orchestrated to destabilize her government. The Union Home Ministry has expressed concern over the state's handling of law and order, urging strict action against delinquent officials. The BJP has called for a National Investigation Agency probe and deployment of central forces, criticizing the state's law enforcement. Banerjee, in turn, has accused the BJP of communal politics and exploiting citizenship issues for political gains. (PC: Business Standard)

The Congress party has announced a nationwide series of 'Samvidhan Bachao' rallies, scheduled across all states from April 25 to 30, as part of its 40-day 'Samvidhan Bachao Abhiyan'. This initiative aims to promote social, political, and economic justice, countering what Congress describes as the BJP-led government's assault on the Constitution. The campaign begins on April 22 with Pradesh Congress Committees' executive meetings, followed by district-level rallies from May 3 to 10, assembly-level rallies from May 11 to 17, and a door-to-door campaign from May 20 to 30. Congress accuses the BJP of weakening the Supreme Court and undermining constitutional institutions. The party reaffirms its commitment to uphold constitutional values and democratic principles. (PC: The Guardian & AP)

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has strongly criticised a recent Supreme Court judgment that set a timeline for the President to act on bills sent by state governors. Calling the verdict a threat to democratic balance, Dhankhar warned against the judiciary assuming executive and legislative powers, dubbing Article 142 a "nuclear missile" against democracy. He also questioned judicial immunity and transparency in light of alleged corruption involving a Delhi High Court judge. Addressing Rajya Sabha interns, Dhankhar stressed the need for judicial accountability and a clear separation of powers, warning that unaccountable judiciary risks eroding institutional credibility and constitutional principles. (PC: PTI)