J&K MLA booked under PSA
Leaders across party lines in Jammu & Kashmir condemned the detention of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA), calling it a blow to democracy. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called the move unjustified and dangerous, questioning its impact on public faith in democracy. Parties including National Conference, PDP, People’s Conference and CPI(M) criticised the use of the draconian law against an elected representative. AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal said Malik was being punished for demanding a hospital, calling him the “lion” of the party. Critics argued the move suppresses dissent and undermines democratic institutions in post-2019 Kashmir.
MP Congress in turmoil
A fresh controversy has hit the Madhya Pradesh Congress after State president Jitu Patwari said he inherited a “depressed” organisation — a remark seen as a veiled swipe at predecessor Kamal Nath. Though Patwari later clarified, the comment has stirred factional tensions in a party already reeling from a Lok Sabha defeat in the State. Kamal Nath still commands influence, and observers say unity is crucial with key elections ahead. The episode reflects deeper divides between the old guard and emerging leadership, undermining the Congress’s credibility as a cohesive force in BJP-dominated Madhya Pradesh.
ED raids sand mining in WB
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted multiple raids in Kolkata and surrounding areas on Monday in connection with a major illegal sand smuggling racket. The prime accused, Zahirul — a former village police officer turned businessman — is allegedly linked to the TMC, although the party denies any involvement. Zahirul reportedly ran illegal sand mining operations along the Subarnarekha river, using fake licenses and laundering money through hawala channels. The raids uncovered large amounts of cash and documents. ED is probing links between Zahirul and a senior TMC leader from Birbhum previously named in smuggling cases. Investigations into financial trails continue.
Zelenskyy backs trade tariffs
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for trade tariffs on nations maintaining economic ties with Russia, emphasising that solidarity must translate into strong actions like sanctions and restrictions. His comments follow a major Russian assault on Kyiv and align with the Trump administration’s recent imposition of tariffs on India.