Nation

In a major crackdown on corruption and drug trafficking inside prisons, the Punjab Government has suspended 25 jail officials, including senior officers, amid rising concerns over criminal networks operating from within jails. The action follows multiple incidents of drug smuggling, mobile phone use by inmates, and alleged staff involvement. With prisons overcrowded and nearly half of inmates found to be drug-dependent, the move is part of a larger reform to clean up the state’s prison system and enforce transparency.

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has echoed the RSS's call to review the inclusion of the words ‘socialist’ and ‘secular’ in the Constitution’s Preamble, stating they do not reflect India's core cultural values. Speaking on the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, Chouhan said socialism is unnecessary for India and secularism is not rooted in Indian tradition. His remarks drew sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who accused the BJP and RSS of undermining democratic values and the Constitution.

Over 5.5 crore devotees have visited Ayodhya's Ram Temple since its consecration on January 22, 2024, making it a major global religious destination, according to the Uttar Pradesh government. Among the visitors were nearly 4.5 lakh VIPs, including top political leaders and celebrities. With Lord Ram now seated on the temple’s first floor and an online pass system in place, footfall is expected to increase further in the coming months.

Over 580 devotees were injured and at least eight are in critical condition after a stampede-like situation occurred during the pulling of Lord Balabhadra’s chariot at the Rath Yatra in Puri. The incident was triggered by overcrowding on the Grand Road as thousands of devotees rushed forward to pull the sacred chariot.

Forty-two senior citizens were rescued from an illegally run old-age home in Noida after a police raid uncovered shocking conditions women were found tied up, many residents were without clothes, and some were confined in basement-like rooms. The raid followed a viral video highlighting the abuse. Officials confirmed the facility had no licence and will be sealed, with all residents being relocated to government-approved shelters.