A priest, Mahendra Minekar, committed suicide at a temple in Kubernagar, Ahmedabad, allegedly due to the mental torture from authorities and developers over plans to demolish the temple established by his grandfather. Police are investigating the allegations, despite officials denying any demolition plans and asserting that the temple would remain intact during redevelopment.
Top Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Abu Qatal was gunned down in Jhelum, Pakistan, by unidentified assailants. Qatal, a close aide of LeT founder Hafiz Saeed, was returning from a meeting with a Pakistan Army commander. The attack is believed to be due to infighting within LeT ranks. Qatal was involved in several terror activities, including attacks in J&K.
Immigration attorneys report an increase in the secondary inspection and detention of green card holders by the US Custom and Border Protection (CBP), particularly targeting elderly Indian residents. Attorneys advise against surrendering green cards at the airport, stressing the importance of a hearing before an immigration judge.
India and New Zealand have restarted discussions for a Free Trade Agreement after a 10-year hiatus. This new move aims to deepen economic ties and address market access issues to achieve balanced outcomes, as bilateral trade surpasses $1 billion.
India is accelerating the development of its fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, AMCA, to counter emerging threats from Pakistan and China. A top-level committee is working on strategies to improve efficiency and shorten production timelines, with a focus on greater private sector involvement.
Union home minister Amit Shah announced that 82% of the 2020 Bodo accord commitments are fulfilled, with full completion expected in two years. He highlighted the transformation of Bodoland Territorial Region from insurgency to development, and the removal of AFSPA from the entire region, emphasizing economic and social progress.
Police in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, have booked over 200 madrassas for failing to comply with government standards. An investigation found that 219 out of 700 madrassas in the district had serious irregularities, with many granted recognition and funding without physical verification.
The annual skiing and snowboarding championship in Auli, scheduled from March 16-19, has been postponed for the third consecutive year due to insufficient snowfall. Officials highlight the impact of limited snow, planning alternative activities. Athletes express concern over climate change affecting future events in the region.
Police have heightened security at the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb near Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar after threats from right-wing groups wanting its demolition. Access to the tomb has been limited, with SRPF deployed and barricades set up nearby. Politicians from opposing factions are using the situation for political leverage.
