Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticized Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK for using language issues to divert attention from corruption. In a Rajya Sabha address, he proposed the establishment of the Bharatiya Bhasha Abhiyan, a new department aimed at promoting all Indian languages. Shah announced plans to communicate in regional languages with state leaders and citizens from next year. He warned against using language to divide the country and emphasized that Hindi should be seen as a friend, not a rival to other languages. He also vowed to expose DMK’s alleged corruption.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has criticized India's education system for being biased against lower castes, labeling the prevailing concept of merit as flawed and detrimental to Dalits, OBCs, and tribals. He advocates for a caste census to unveil the depth of this inequality, asserting that such a measure is crucial for equitable resource distribution, aligning with B.R. Ambedkar's vision. In response, BJP spokesperson C.R. Kesavan condemned Gandhi's remarks, suggesting they reflect a dynastic and feudal mindset. Kesavan emphasized that the Congress party has historically undermined meritorious leaders from SC, ST, and OBC communities who have risen through dedication and hard work.

The Karnataka Assembly has passed a bill granting a 4% reservation to Muslims in government contracts, aiming to promote inclusivity and economic opportunities for minority communities. The bill reserves 4% of civil works contracts up to ₹2 crore and goods/services contracts up to ₹1 crore for individuals under Category 2B (Muslims). The ruling Congress party defends this move as a step toward social justice. In contrast, the opposition BJP deems it unconstitutional, accusing the government of appeasement politics, and plans to challenge the bill legally. The assembly session was marked by chaos, with BJP members protesting and tearing copies of the bill, demanding discussions on an unrelated honey-trap scandal.

Karnataka Minister KN Rajanna has claimed that 48 politicians, including central leaders, were victims of honey traps. He made the statement in the Assembly, triggering demands for a high-level probe. Rajanna said the issue affects leaders from all parties and called for a full investigation. BJP and Congress leaders also urged a judicial probe. Reports suggest two powerful ministers from Tumakuru were targeted. Karnataka’s Home Minister said he was unaware and would seek information. Opposition leaders questioned if the government was involved. The controversy continues to grow, raising concerns about political blackmail and misuse of power.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attributed recent Nagpur clashes to the Vicky Kaushal-starrer film 'Chhaava', stating it incited public anger against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Addressing the state Assembly, Fadnavis described the violence, which left 30 injured and numerous vehicles damaged, as "pre-planned." He emphasized that while the film sparked emotions, maintaining peace in Maharashtra is paramount. The unrest began after Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad protests, during which rumors circulated about the desecration of religious texts, escalating tensions. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde echoed Fadnavis's sentiments, condemning the violence and suggesting it aimed to disrupt communal harmony. Both leaders stressed that taking law into one's own hands is unacceptable, and authorities are committed to restoring peace and order.

Mangat Rai Manga, district president of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) in Moga, Punjab, was shot dead on March 13, 2025. The incident occurred around 10 pm near Gill Palace when assailants in an SUV chased and fired at Manga's car. Despite attempts to escape, Manga was fatally wounded and pronounced dead at the hospital. A 12-year-old bystander, Thomas, was also injured and is receiving treatment. Manga had been associated with the Shiv Sena for an extended period. Local authorities are investigating the motive and searching for the suspects.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman criticised the Tamil Nadu government for replacing the rupee symbol (₹) with a Tamil letter in its 2025-26 budget logo. She questioned why DMK did not oppose the symbol when it was introduced in 2010 under the UPA government, where DMK was an ally. Sitharaman called the move "a rejection of a national symbol" and warned it could "promote secessionist sentiment." The DMK defended the change, saying it reflects Tamil identity. The controversy comes amid a language dispute between the state and the Centre over the National Education Policy.

Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai criticized the DMK for replacing the rupee symbol with the Tamil letter 'Ru' in the state's budget material. He called the move "stupid," pointing out that the rupee symbol was designed by Tamilian Udaya Kumar, son of a former DMK MLA. The DMK defended its decision, stating it aims to promote Tamil. Annamalai accused the party of fueling a "language war" against the Centre. The DMK insists the change is legal and reflects Tamil pride. The BJP leader’s remarks have intensified Tamil Nadu’s ongoing language debate.

Kannada actress Ranya Rao was arrested at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport for allegedly smuggling 14.8 kg of gold from Dubai. Authorities seized gold worth ₹12.56 crore and later found more jewelry and cash at her home. The BJP accused the Karnataka government of shielding Ranya, alleging a minister's involvement. Congress countered by pointing out BJP’s past land allotment to her company. The case is now under the CBI’s watch. Ranya, stepdaughter of a senior police officer, remains in custody as investigations continue.

In a significant move reflecting linguistic pride, the Tamil Nadu government, led by Chief Minister MK Stalin, has replaced the Indian Rupee symbol (₹) with the Tamil script 'ரூ' (derived from 'Rubai', meaning Rupees in Tamil) in the 2025-26 state budget logo. This decision emerges amidst ongoing disputes between the DMK-led state government and the BJP-led central government over the National Education Policy's three-language formula, which Tamil Nadu perceives as an imposition of Hindi. The state's steadfast opposition to the policy underscores its commitment to preserving linguistic and cultural identity. While supporters hail the logo change as a bold affirmation of Tamil heritage, critics argue it undermines national unity. Notably, the official Indian Rupee symbol was designed in 2010 by Udaya Kumar Dharmalingam, a Tamilian and son of a former DMK MLA.