Supreme Court Declines to Hear Petitions Against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
The Supreme Court of India has firmly refused to entertain multiple pleas seeking the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) and the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The petitions were related to an alleged "target-shooting" video involving the Chief Minister.
A bench led by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vikul Pancholi, directed the petitioners to approach the Gauhati High Court instead. The bench expressed serious concern over what it termed a "disturbing trend" of filing such petitions directly before the apex court, particularly in the lead-up to elections.
The court emphasized that its jurisdiction should not be undermined and urged all parties to exercise restraint within constitutional limits. The bench questioned the petitioners, asking, "Why haven't you gone to the Gauhati High Court?" This decision underscores the Supreme Court's stance on maintaining proper judicial hierarchy and procedure.
Tragic Blaze at Illegal Firecracker Factory in Rajasthan Claims Eight Lives
In a devastating industrial accident, at least eight workers were burnt alive and two others are feared trapped after a massive fire erupted at an illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in Bhiwadi, Alwar district, Rajasthan. Officials reported that approximately 25 laborers were present at the site when stored gunpowder and cardboard materials caught fire, leading to a rapid and intense inferno.
The blaze was triggered by multiple explosions, with eyewitnesses reporting three to four loud blasts that caused widespread panic in the surrounding industrial area. Fire tenders battled the flames for several hours before bringing the situation largely under control. Authorities took immediate safety measures, including evacuating nearby factories and cutting off the power supply to prevent further escalation.
This tragic incident highlights the grave dangers associated with illegal and unregulated manufacturing operations, raising serious questions about industrial safety standards and enforcement in the region.
Congress Internal Conflict Escalates as Senior Leader Mani Shankar Aiyar Criticizes Rahul Gandhi
Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has publicly criticized Rahul Gandhi, creating a significant rift within the party. Aiyar's comments came after the Indian National Congress officially distanced itself from his praise of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Left government ahead of the state assembly polls.
In a sharp rebuke, Aiyar stated that he is a "Gandhian, Nehruvian, Rajivian—but not a Rahulian." He invoked B. R. Ambedkar during his critique and mocked several party colleagues, including Pawan Khera, whom he called a "puppet" and "parrot," and also criticized Jairam Ramesh and K. C. Venugopal.
The Congress party quickly issued a clarification, stating that Aiyar spoke in his personal capacity and has held no organizational role for many years. This public disagreement exposes deepening internal tensions within the Congress leadership, particularly regarding ideological alignment and public statements during election periods.
Delhi High Court Grants Interim Bail to Actor Rajpal Yadav in Cheque Bounce Case
The Delhi High Court has granted interim bail to Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav in a long-standing cheque bounce case that had previously led to his custody in Tihar Jail. The court's decision came after Yadav deposited Rs 1.5 crore, which was credited to the respondent's account.
The High Court suspended his sentence until March 18, subject to specific conditions including a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh and a surety of the same amount. Yadav had sought bail citing a family wedding as a pressing personal reason.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on the next scheduled date, marking a temporary relief for the actor in this legal proceeding.
India Secures Super 8 Berth in ICC Men's T20 World Cup with Commanding Victory Over Pakistan
Team India delivered a dominant performance, defeating Pakistan by 61 runs to secure their place in the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. The victory was powered by Ishan Kishan's aggressive 77 runs, which helped India post a competitive total of 175/7.
Pakistan's chase faltered dramatically, with early dismissals of key players including captain Salman Agha and star batsman Babar Azam. Usman Khan top-scored for Pakistan with 44 runs, but the team was bowled out for 114 in just 18 overs.
Before embarking on their Super 8 campaign, India will face the Netherlands in their final group-stage match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This victory not only advances India in the tournament but also reinforces their strong position in international T20 cricket.
