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India’s government confirmed five LPG tankers, carrying approximately 2.3 lakh tonnes of cooking gas, are positioned west of the Strait of Hormuz. Two ships are expected at Indian ports this week. Officials clarified that no special permission is required for vessels to transit the international strait, though safety assessments are crucial given the current geopolitical

A sharp exchange occurred in the Supreme Court between the bench and Mamata Banerjee’s counsel Kapil Sibal regarding ED proceedings. The court clarified it was not presuming guilt, but rather acknowledging allegations require investigation. The case involves petitions seeking a CBI probe into alleged obstruction of ED officials during raids linked to a money laundering

The Supreme Court questioned the West Bengal government on how a central agency can seek redress from a state authority headed by the Chief Minister when the complaint is against the CM herself.

Election Commission convened with top officials from poll-bound states and their neighbors to bolster election preparedness. The focus was on ensuring peaceful polls by strengthening border security and curbing illegal activities like cash, liquor, and drug smuggling. All agencies were directed to maintain heightened vigilance to prevent violence and inducements.

The Supreme Court expressed disapproval of a PIL requesting separate enumeration of Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes in the upcoming census. The bench suggested the petition’s motive might be to gain SC/ST status, calling such moves “calculated” and potentially aimed at dividing India. Despite recommendations for enumeration since 2000, the government has not acted.

India’s informal sector added nearly 75 lakh jobs between January and December 2025, signaling a strong recovery from recent economic shocks. The ‘other services’ sector led growth with 35 lakh new jobs, while manufacturing and trade also saw significant additions. The number of informal establishments also grew by 8%.

Indian Railways has revised its ticket cancellation refund policy, with no refunds for cancellations made less than eight hours before departure. Cancellations between 8-24 hours will incur a 50% deduction, and 25% for 24-72 hours prior. These changes aim to curb black marketing of tickets by touts.

The Supreme Court ruled that only individuals professing Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism can be members of Scheduled Castes. Conversion to any other religion results in an absolute loss of SC status, preventing invocation of the SC/ST Act. This ruling contrasts with Scheduled Tribes, where religion is not a basis for exclusion.

Prime Minister Modi has cautioned about a prolonged disruption stemming from the West Asia conflict. He stated this crisis will be a major test for India, potentially leading to an energy crisis and serious global economic consequences.

Lok Sabha approved the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill 2026 via voice vote, despite opposition calls for wider consultations. The government stated the changes aim to ensure benefits reach genuine transgender individuals, moving away from self-perceived gender identity and introducing a medical board for certification. The bill now heads to the Rajya Sabha.