In a significant week for Indian current affairs, developments spanned diplomacy, politics, finance, and sports. Key highlights include a reaffirmation of strong India-US relations, a political spat in Maharashtra, allegations against the Election Commission in West Bengal, a historic date for the Union Budget, and a new cricketing record for the national team.
"Real Friendship" Endures in India-US Relations Despite Trade Differences
US ambassador-designate to India, Sergio Gor, emphasized the resilience of the bilateral relationship between the two nations. He stated that President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi share a genuine personal bond, which underpins the strong partnership.
Gor acknowledged ongoing negotiations over trade and tariffs but underscored that the ties remain robust. "Real friends can disagree but always resolve their differences in the end," he remarked, highlighting the ability to navigate through occasional disagreements. He also noted President Trump's frequent and fond recollections of his visit to India and his rapport with PM Modi.
Political Crossfire: Annamalai Dares Raj Thackeray Over Mumbai Entry
A war of words escalated between BJP leader K Annamalai and MNS chief Raj Thackeray. The confrontation began after Thackeray mocked Annamalai with a "rasmalai" remark and questioned his right to comment on Mumbai.
Hitting back fiercely, Annamalai, the former Tamil Nadu BJP chief, dared Thackeray to prevent him from entering Mumbai. "Who are Aaditya Thackeray and Raj Thackeray to threaten me? I will come to Mumbai—try cutting my legs," he declared. Annamalai, proudly identifying as a farmer's son, dismissed the threats and criticized the leaders for what he called ignorance and attempts to regionalize national figures and cities.
Mamata Banerjee Accuses Election Commission of Voter Harassment
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has written a strongly-worded letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, leveling serious allegations against the poll body. She accused the Election Commission (EC) of forcing voters to re-establish their identity during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Banerjee alleged that the EC is ignoring legally mandated corrections made over the past two decades. She further pointed out procedural lapses, including a failure to provide proper acknowledgements for documents submitted by citizens during the revision exercise.
Historic First: Union Budget 2026 to be Presented on a Sunday
In a break from tradition, the Union Budget for 2026 will be presented on a Sunday. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla confirmed that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will table the budget on February 1, 2026.
This will be the eighth budget presented by Sitharaman. The date was finalized following the announcement of the Budget Session schedule by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju. The session is slated to be held in two parts, spanning from January 28 to April 2, 2026.
India Creates ODI History with 20th 300-Plus Successful Chase
The Indian cricket team scripted a new record in one-day internationals during the series opener against New Zealand. Chasing a target of 301 runs in Vadodara, India secured a four-wicket victory, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
With this win, India became the first team in ODI history to successfully chase down a target exceeding 300 runs on 20 separate occasions. The chase was anchored by a masterful 93 from Virat Kohli, with crucial contributions from captain Shubman Gill (56) and Shreyas Iyer (49). The tense finish further cemented India's reputation as one of the most formidable chasing sides in world cricket.
