External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasizes India's need to outperform China rather than fearing its geopolitical influence. Addressing concerns over China shaping South Asia's geopolitics, Jaishankar advocates for India to enhance diplomatic ties with neighboring countries. He urges a proactive approach, stating, "Let me do better than that." The comments come as China strengthens ties with Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Pakistan. Jaishankar also highlights India's responsibility to aid neighboring nations during crises, citing recent Navy deployments. Emphasizing India's role as a responsible country, he recalls assistance during the Covid-19 pandemic and international emergencies.

A dispute has unfolded in Bengaluru's Shivajinagar as a 'green flag' raised in the area stirs controversy, with the BJP urging swift action. BJP's Basanagouda R Patil highlighted the issue, questioning the Congress government over flying a green flag reminiscent of an enemy country. Patil emphasized adherence to the flag code and called for the immediate replacement with the national flag, asserting, "Shivajinagar is in India, not Pakistan." This development follows the recent row in Mandya district, where the removal of a saffron Hanuman flag triggered political clashes between the Congress government and the BJP-JD(S). The green flag in Shivajinagar was eventually replaced with the Tricolor amidst heightened tensions.

The Mavelikkara Additional District Session Court-I has sentenced 15 members of the now-banned Popular Front of India (PFI) to death for the 2021 murder of BJP leader Ranjith Sreenivasan. Sreenivasan, the BJP OBC Morcha state secretary, was brutally attacked and killed in his home in December 2021. The court found all 15 accused guilty of murder, with eight directly involved and four aiding with deadly weapons. Additionally, three conspirators were convicted of criminal conspiracy and murder. The sentencing awaits pronouncement by the court.

The Hindu party in the Gyanvapi dispute has petitioned the Supreme Court for an in-depth Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) examination in the 'wazukhana' area, seeking to clarify the nature of the 'Shivling'. Advocating the ASI's freedom to conduct a comprehensive survey without harming the religious artifact, the plea also calls for excavation and scientific analysis of the entire sealed area. Recent revelations from an ASI survey report suggest the existence of a Hindu temple beneath the Gyanvapi mosque. The plea underscores the importance of ASI's expertise in establishing factual evidence amidst ongoing religious and historical controversies.

Maratha Military Landscapes will be India’s nomination for recognition as UNESCO World Heritage List for the year 2024-25. Comprising twelve components, including forts like Raigad and Shivneri, it represents Maratha rulers' strategic military prowess from the 17th to 19th centuries. These forts, strategically located in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, showcase varied landscapes and military power. The unique network of over 390 forts in Maharashtra, with eight protected by Archaeological Survey of India, reflects the Maratha Military ideology dating back to the 17th century. The nomination falls under the cultural criteria category for UNESCO consideration.

A fire broke out at Delhi Police's Wazirabad yard early Monday, damaging 250 vehicles stored in the 'malkhana.' Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the blaze was brought under control by 6 am with the help of five fire tenders. The incident is suspected to have started from a small fire, possibly lit to combat the cold, spreading to the yard. The 'malkhana,' covering 500 square yards, houses seized vehicles and is now under investigation by a team from the Forensic Science Laboratory. A case under Section 435 of the IPC has been registered against unidentified persons.

Union Minister Shantanu Thakur, BJP MP from Bongaon, states the swift implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) in the country within seven days. Thakur, also a Matua community leader, emphasizes the CAA's implementation, aiming to grant Indian citizenship to persecuted non-Muslim migrants from neighboring countries. The Matua community, with a significant presence in West Bengal, is expected to benefit from the CAA. The remarks draw strong reactions from the ruling Trinamool Congress, opposing the divisive nature of the CAA. Thakur's statements come amidst speculation about notifying CAA rules before the Lok Sabha election.

Chief Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi of All India Imam Organization issued a fatwa and death threats for attending Ayodhya's Pran Pratishta ceremony. Despite threats, Ilyasi refuses to resign, urging critics to "go to Pakistan." He defends attending the event for national harmony, citing positive responses. Recorded threat calls reveal safety concerns. The controversy follows the Ayodhya ceremony attended by PM Modi and dignitaries. Ilyasi emphasizes his actions were for the country and humanity, refusing apologies. Tensions rise amid differing opinions on religious leaders participating in diverse ceremonies.

Thousands join BJP and JDS rally in Karnataka's Mandya district protesting the removal of a Hanuman flag. Former CM HD Kumaraswamy participates, criticizing the Congress government. Security heightened with 200 police personnel. Controversy arose after a 108-foot flagpole intended for the national flag displayed Hanuman flag, leading to clashes. Prohibitory orders in place under Section 144. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah accuses BJP of political plotting, while BJP's CT Ravi defends hoisting Hanuman flag, calling the government "anti-Hindu." Unrest spreads to Bengaluru; protesters detained. Tensions rise amid political accusations ahead of Lok Sabha elections.

Amid heightened security for Republic Day celebrations, a serious breach occurred at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport as a man, reportedly intoxicated, scaled the perimeter wall and reached the runway. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) swiftly responded after the pilot of an Air India flight spotted the intruder around 11:30 pm Saturday. A head constable has been suspended for alleged dereliction of duty. The CISF, responsible for airport security, apprehended the man from Haryana and handed him over to Delhi Police. An inquiry is underway, emphasizing the gravity of the incident during heightened security measures in the national capital.