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PDP legislator Waheed Parra’s bill proposing 16 new districts and two divisions in J&K has drawn sharp criticism. The ruling NC called it a sabotage attempt to undermine sub-region empowerment, while the BJP alleged it aligns with Pakistan’s ISI agenda to create a ‘Greater Kashmir’ by dividing Jammu.

Parliament passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill 2026, sparking immediate resignations from two National Council for Transgender Persons members protesting the lack of community consultation. The bill removes self-perceived gender identity, introducing a medical board for transgender certificates, a move critics deem regressive and a step backward for fundamental rights.

Jammu and Kashmir administration defended its ban on 25 Kashmir-related books in high court, citing state security and public order. The government also justified the legal provision used for the ban. Petitioners challenging the order have been given time to respond. The full bench will hear the case.

India, US take stock of bilateral defence ties  ThePrint

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the Border Roads Organisation’s (BRO) progress on critical infrastructure projects, including over 1,000 road and connectivity initiatives under the 2023-28 plan. The focus is on enhancing all-weather access in remote areas, bolstering defence preparedness, and strengthening border management, particularly along the Indo-Myanmar frontier.

Keralam Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly condemned misogynistic remarks made by a UDF leader against MLA U Prathibha, terming them an insult to all women in public life. Prathibha plans legal action, stating the comments were beyond character assassination and aimed at discouraging women. The UDF candidate distanced himself from the remarks.