India has categorically dismissed Pakistan's claim of 'Indian agents' being involved in the assassination of two Pakistani terrorists. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) accused Pakistan of spreading false and malicious anti-India propaganda, emphasizing that Pakistan has long been the epicenter of terrorism. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "To blame others for its own misdeeds can neither be a justification nor a solution." Pakistan's Foreign Secretary had earlier alleged "credible evidence" linking Indian agents to the killings. India countered, asserting that such accusations are baseless, and Pakistan will face consequences for its own actions.

Following the Mira Bhayander Municipal Corporation's bulldozer action, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) razes around 40 illegal structures on Mumbai's Mohammed Ali Road. BMC officials state the structures were illegal and the demolition aimed at freeing up footpath space. The action is part of a municipal "deep cleaning" drive to clear pavements. Congress questions the bulldozer approach, deeming it unconstitutional and targeting a specific community. Samajwadi Party MLA suggests political motives ahead of elections. The BMC asserts the move aligns with a broader effort to maintain cleanliness in the city.

On the eve of the 75th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu delivered a poignant address, spotlighting the momentous inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Describing it as a landmark in India's cultural heritage rediscovery, she also touched upon the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam for women's empowerment and praised the successful hosting of the G-20 Summit during India's presidency. The address highlighted the nation's unity, emphasizing co-existence as a source of happiness. President Murmu paid tribute to Karpoori Thakur for enriching public life and acknowledged India's journey into the early years of the Amrit Kaal, leading to the centenary of Independence.

French President Emmanuel Macron, the Republic Day chief guest, commenced his two-day state visit to India with a spectacular roadshow alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jaipur. The leaders, received by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Governor Kalraj Mishra, embarked on a historic route from Jantar Mantar to Sanganeri Gate, making a stopover at Hawa Mahal. The day unfolded with visits to Amer Fort, Jantar Mantar's World Heritage Site, and a planned photo op at the iconic Hawa Mahal. Macron's visit, concluding with a private dinner hosted by PM Modi at Rambagh Palace, caps the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the strategic partnership between India and France. The visit is expected to yield major announcements in defense and strategic sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Jaipur to meet French President Emmanuel Macron. The leaders are set for a roadshow from Jantar Mantar to Sanganeri Gate at 6 pm, followed by a visit to Hawa Mahal. Discussions in Jaipur include announcing a Defence Industrial Roadmap and a groundbreaking Defence Space Cooperation agreement. The leaders will conclude with dinner at Rambagh Palace. Macron's visit aligns with India's 75th Republic Day celebrations, where he serves as the chief guest. Earlier in Bulandshahr, PM Modi inaugurated projects worth ₹19,100 crore, marking his first public appearance post-Ayodhya events.

A culinary clash has emerged in Delhi as Moti Mahal and Daryaganj restaurants grapple over the origin of the famed butter chicken recipe. Moti Mahal, boasting a legacy dating back to Peshawar in the 1930s, credits its founder Kundan Lal Gujral for crafting the iconic dish during the era. Daryaganj, however, claims collaboration with Gujral in post-partition Delhi, asserting their relative Kundan Lal Jaggi's role. The legal tussle includes a $240,000 damages claim by the Gujral family. With the next court hearing in May, the battle to determine butter chicken's true creator remains unresolved.

Maharashtra's Pench Tiger Reserve has been designated as India's inaugural Dark Sky Park, the fifth in Asia. This recognition is aimed at preserving the night sky by addressing light pollution. The International Union for Conservation of Nature emphasizes the importance of natural darkness for ecological integrity. The certification focuses on practical measures such as lighting policies, retrofits, and community outreach. The reserve has also established a night observatory, and changes to street lights in nearby villages contribute to minimizing light pollution. This milestone underscores the reserve's commitment to balancing conservation and community well-being.

At least 36 legislators and two parliamentarians from Manipur's Meitei community pledge to safeguard the state's integrity, organized by the controversial Arambai Tenggol group. The move follows heightened violence, with nine recent deaths. Meitei leaders, spanning political parties, unite to convey community support amidst ethnic clashes. The oath coincides with a Union home ministry delegation's peace talks in Imphal. The group demands the abrogation of agreements with Kuki militants, deportation of Myanmar refugees, and border security. The event signals Meitei solidarity, reflecting the complex ethnic landscape and political challenges in Manipur.

Over 14,000 security personnel, including commandos, snipers, and spotters armed with advanced weapons, will fortify Kartavya Path during the 75th Republic Day celebrations in Delhi. Special Commissioner of Police, Dependra Pathak, anticipates a crowd of 77,000 attendees on Friday. Enhanced security is in response to last year's Parliament breach and potential disruptions following the inauguration of the new Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Delhi Police focuses on footwear, scanning for unusual shoes, and urges visitors to use park-and-ride facilities. With sealed borders, traffic restrictions, and additional personnel, authorities are leaving no stone unturned to ensure a secure and smooth Republic Day event.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau's raids reveal assets exceeding ₹100 crore allegedly amassed by Shiva Balakrishna, Secretary of TSRERA and former Director of HMDA in Telangana. Suspected of exploiting his position, Balakrishna faces charges of facilitating permits for real estate companies. The extensive searches across 20 locations exposed gold, flats, bank deposits, and benami holdings. Seized items include ₹40 lakh cash, 2 kg of gold, 60 high-end wristwatches, property documents, and significant bank deposits. ACB continues investigating bank lockers and undisclosed assets, indicating a prolonged probe into the suspected unaccounted wealth accumulation.