Political Landscape Shaken by Pawar's Death and Merger Speculation
The sudden demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party chief Ajit Pawar in a tragic plane crash has sent shockwaves through the state's political corridors. This unexpected development has reignited intense speculation about a potential reunion within the fractured NCP, with a close confidant revealing that Pawar was "100% keen" on merging the splintered factions before his untimely death.
Uncertain Future for Maharashtra's Political Equilibrium
As a pivotal power center within the Devendra Fadnavis-led Mahayuti government, Pawar's absence creates significant political uncertainty. The Baramati strongman's passing leaves the future of the Nationalist Congress Party hanging in the balance, particularly following its dramatic 2023 split that reshaped Maharashtra's political landscape.
BJP Condemns Historical Remarks by Former Vice President
The Bharatiya Janata Party has launched strong criticism against former Vice President Hamid Ansari for his characterization of historical figures. The political party accused Ansari of distorting historical narratives and attempting to "whitewash brutal invasions" after he described Mahmud of Ghazni and the Lodhis as "Indian plunderers" rather than foreign invaders.
Historical Interpretation Sparks Political Debate
This controversy highlights ongoing tensions regarding historical interpretation in India's political discourse. Ansari's remarks, suggesting these historical figures "did not come from outside," have ignited fresh debate about how India's complex history should be framed in contemporary discussions.
Amit Shah Addresses Infiltration Concerns in Assam
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has made significant allegations regarding demographic changes in Assam during a political address in Dhemaji. The senior BJP leader claimed that Assam's demographic composition underwent substantial transformation under Congress rule, with the infiltrator population allegedly rising from zero to 64 lakh.
Election Season Brings Migration Issues to Forefront
Shah asserted that infiltrators became the majority population in seven districts of Assam, urging voters to support the BJP in upcoming assembly elections to "completely free" the state from infiltration concerns. These statements come at a crucial juncture as Assam prepares for electoral contests that will likely focus heavily on migration and demographic issues.
Landmark Supreme Court Ruling on Menstrual Hygiene
In a groundbreaking judgment that advances gender equality and public health, the Supreme Court has declared menstrual hygiene to be an integral component of the fundamental right to life and privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution. The bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan delivered this historic verdict while addressing a plea concerning menstrual health facilities for schoolgirls.
Comprehensive Directives for Menstrual Health Infrastructure
The apex court issued comprehensive directives mandating that:
- All states and Union Territories provide free biodegradable sanitary pads to girl students
- Educational institutions ensure separate toilet facilities for female students
- Authorities implement measures protecting the dignity, health, and equality of women and girls
This ruling represents a significant step toward addressing menstrual health disparities and promoting gender-sensitive infrastructure across India's educational system.
Precious Metals Experience Dramatic Price Correction
Gold and silver futures witnessed a sharp decline during exceptionally volatile trading sessions on the Multi Commodity Exchange. This dramatic correction followed record-breaking rallies earlier in the week, with traders engaging in substantial profit-booking activities that triggered the downward spiral.
Market Forces Behind the Precious Metals Plunge
The price movement revealed substantial declines across both precious metals:
- Gold futures expiring February 5, 2026, plunged by approximately Rs 11,000 per 10 grams, representing a 6.5% decrease to settle at Rs 1,59,984
- Silver contracts for March 5, 2026, delivery experienced an even more severe correction, crashing by Rs 68,000 per kg—a staggering 16.6% decline—to reach Rs 3,34,503 per kg
Market analysts attribute this sudden downturn to multiple factors including a strengthening US dollar, weak global market cues, and technical corrections following extended periods of bullish momentum in precious metals trading.
