The Maharashtra government has set up a 7-member panel, led by DGP Sanjay Verma, to study legal aspects of a potential law against "love jihad" and forced religious conversions. The BJP cites the Shraddha Walkar case to justify the move, while the opposition calls it an attack on personal freedom. NCP leader Supriya Sule urged the government to focus on economic issues, while Congress leader Husain Dalwai called "love jihad" a myth. BJP MLA Mangal Lodha defended the initiative, claiming such cases were rising in Maharashtra. The panel will review similar laws in other states.

Abhinav Chandrachud, son of former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, is representing YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia in the Supreme Court amidst multiple FIRs for controversial remarks in the show India’s Got Latent. The Supreme Court is set to hear the case involving Allahbadia’s petition to merge the complaints. Abhinav is a well-educated lawyer with degrees from prestigious institutions, including Harvard and Stanford, and has also written books on law. Despite his father’s prominent position, Abhinav has never appeared before the Supreme Court during his father’s tenure.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed the creation of a unified European military force at the Munich Security Conference, urging Europe to reduce reliance on U.S. support amid shifting American policies. He stressed that Ukraine would not accept peace deals made without its involvement, calling for European autonomy in defense matters. In response, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz defended Europe's sovereignty, criticizing U.S. interference, particularly from Vice President JD Vance regarding democratic practices. The conference underscored Europe's growing desire for greater defense independence, highlighting the evolving dynamics of the transatlantic relationship amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.  

Team India’s star cricketers, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, and KL Rahul, have departed for Dubai to compete in the ICC Champions Trophy, set to begin on February 20. A notable change in the squad includes Harshit Rana replacing the injured Jasprit Bumrah, while Varun Chakravarthy steps in for Yashasvi Jaiswal. The team is focused on a strong start, aiming for the prestigious ICC title. The squad is led by coach Gautam Gambhir and includes a strong coaching staff to guide the team through the competition.

Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha dismissed three government employees, including a police constable, for their alleged terror links, marking the latest in a series of terminations. Firdous Ahmed Bhat, a police constable, was found working for the Lashkar-e-Toiba terror group. Nisar Ahmed Khan, a forest department orderly, had longstanding ties to Hizbul Mujahideen. These terminations raise concerns about the state government's authority, as this marks the 69th dismissal since Article 370's abrogation in 2019.

Amid escalating violence in Manipur, underground groups like Arambai Tenggol have told their cadres to "lie low" as security forces intensify their crackdown. Following the imposition of President's Rule, the groups have been suppressing activity, hiding weapons, and avoiding attention. Arambai Tenggol, once a dominant force in the region, has seen some cadres defect to rival groups, while younger members are retreating from active conflict. Despite these actions, the situation remains volatile, with tensions still high across the Imphal Valley.

    Amid efforts to streamline the US government, over 9,500 federal employees were laid off, marking a significant step in President Trump’s push to reduce bureaucracy, with Elon Musk playing an advisory role. The layoffs targeted probationary staff and fixed-term contracts, impacting various departments such as Veterans Affairs and the IRS. Trump argues this will combat waste and fraud within the $36 trillion government, but Democrats express concerns about overreach. While some workers accepted buyouts, the reshaping process faces backlash, especially over Musk’s influence.    

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the United States marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations with President Donald Trump. The leaders discussed enhancing trade and defense cooperation, aiming to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. They also explored opportunities in sectors like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and strategic minerals. In defense, plans were unveiled to increase U.S. military sales to India, including potential F-35 aircraft. Additionally, both leaders emphasized deepening security collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.    

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) has ordered an investigation into the renovation of Arvind Kejriwal's former residence, 6 Flagstaff Bungalow, following a CPWD report. The probe stems from allegations that building norms were violated during its transformation into a lavish mansion, covering 40,000 square feet. The renovation had merged neighboring government properties, leading to claims of illegal alterations. This move comes amid political disputes, with the BJP calling for the reversal of the merger and restoration of the original property layout.

    India and the US aim to finalize a trade deal by fall 2025, focusing on reducing import duties and non-tariff barriers. The agreement targets enhancing bilateral trade, particularly in textiles, leather, and industrial goods. India seeks to boost imports of US oil, gas, and defense products to address trade deficits, while also negotiating lower duties on US products like whiskey and wine. Both nations will work together to increase exports, and India is exploring services and visa arrangements, though these may face domestic challenges in the US.