The BJP alleged that Hindu devotees were attacked during a Ram Navami procession in Kolkata’s Park Circus area, blaming the Trinamool Congress and accusing police of inaction. Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar claimed vehicles carrying saffron flags were vandalized and devotees were “savagely attacked” as stones were hurled at them. He called the incident “targeted violence” and criticized Kolkata Police as “silent and spineless.” However, police denied any such procession took place in the area and said a case had been filed. The political row has reignited tensions over religious processions and law enforcement roles in West Bengal. (PC: India Today)

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that the ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) plan will be implemented only after 2030. Speaking at SRM University, she said nearly ₹1 lakh crore was spent on the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. She claimed simultaneous polls could add ₹4.5 lakh crore to India’s economy. Sitharaman accused some parties of spreading false claims against ONOE. She said Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin opposes it, but his father, M. Karunanidhi, had supported it. She urged all to back the idea, saying it is not a new plan but has been discussed for 10 years. (PC: The Wire)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a recent address on April 6, 2025, took a sharp dig at opposition leaders for what he described as “unjustified and baseless” complaints regarding the allocation of central funds. Modi claimed that despite clear records of equitable fund distribution across states, some political parties continue to mislead the public for electoral gain. He reaffirmed his government's dedication to transparent governance and inclusive development, stating that false narratives only obstruct national progress and unity. (PC: ANI)

Political tensions are escalating in West Bengal over Ram Navami celebrations. In Howrah, authorities have meticulously planned processions (shobha yatras) with designated routes to balance religious fervor and law enforcement preparedness. BJP leader Dilip Ghosh has ignited controversy by accusing the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of attempting to hinder the festivities, alleging deliberate targeting of Hindu sentiments under the pretext of maintaining law and order. He asserted that Hindus possess the right to celebrate peacefully and warned that any restrictions would be perceived as political appeasement. In response, police have issued traffic advisories and deployed forces in sensitive areas to prevent communal tensions. (PC: Outlook India & The Indian Express)

Congress MP Mohammad Jawed and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi have filed petitions in the Supreme Court challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, calling it discriminatory against Muslims. Passed in Rajya Sabha after midnight Thursday, the bill awaits presidential assent. Jawed argues the law violates Articles 14, 25, 26, 29, and 300A of the Constitution, citing undue state control and inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf boards. The petition says this contradicts practices in Hindu and Sikh trusts and discriminates against new converts to Islam. Both leaders demand the court strike down the bill, claiming it undermines minority religious freedom and property rights. (PC: NDTV)

In a significant escalation of political tensions in Tamil Nadu, BJP state president K Annamalai has expressed readiness to step down following the AIADMK's decision to exit the BJP-led NDA alliance. The fallout was triggered by Annamalai’s controversial comments, which AIADMK leaders claimed disrespected party icons and strained ties. As the alliance collapses just ahead of the 2024 general elections, Annamalai stated he would resign if it helps mend relations. The development marks a critical turning point in state politics, potentially impacting BJP’s electoral strategies and its southern ambitions. (PC: NDTV)

On April 3, 2025, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi criticized the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha, labeling it a "brazen assault" on the Constitution and accusing the BJP of perpetuating societal polarization. She asserted that the bill was "bulldozed" through Parliament and highlighted concerns over the "One Nation, One Election" proposal, describing it as another constitutional subversion. Gandhi urged Congress members to aggressively expose the Modi government's alleged failures and its attempts to transform India into a surveillance state. She also accused Prime Minister Modi of rebranding initiatives from the UPA era as his own achievements. (PC: NDTV)

The Indian National Congress plans to challenge the constitutionality of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, in the Supreme Court, as announced by party leader Jairam Ramesh. This bill, recently passed by both houses of Parliament, introduces significant changes to the management of Muslim charitable endowments, known as waqfs. It proposes including non-Muslim members in waqf boards and increases government oversight. Supporters argue these measures aim to enhance transparency and reduce corruption. However, critics, including the Congress party and various Muslim organizations, contend that the bill infringes upon the constitutional rights of Muslims and could lead to the seizure of historically significant religious properties. (PC: Wikipedia)

The Rajya Sabha has passed the Waqf Amendment Bill, following its earlier approval in the Lok Sabha. The bill received 128 votes in favor and 95 against in the Upper House. BJP Minister J.P. Nadda emphasized the government's commitment to genuine service, stating, "We believe in real service, not lip service." Opposition parties, including Congress, have criticized the bill as unconstitutional and discriminatory towards Muslims. The legislation aims to amend the management of Waqf properties, introducing non-Muslims into Waqf boards and increasing governmental oversight. Supporters argue it will enhance transparency and reduce corruption, while critics fear it may infringe upon the rights of the Muslim community. (PC: The Economic Times)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Parliament, calling it a "watershed moment" for the country. The bill aims to streamline the administration and utilization of Waqf properties, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and better management of these assets. The government's push for the legislation seeks to improve accountability, provide better governance of Waqf properties, and support the development of properties under Waqf institutions. Modi emphasized that the move will contribute to a more inclusive and empowered society, benefiting all communities. (PC: ANI)