Election in Delhi: February 5, 2025

 Delhi Election 2025:

Everything You Need to Know

DELHI ELECTION

The big day is almost here! Delhi is all set to vote in the 2025 Assembly Elections on February 5. Campaigning has officially ended, and now, all eyes are on the polls. The election will be a three-way contest between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress. Voting will take place at 13,766 polling stations, and the results will be announced on February 8.

Key Highlights

·         Voting Date: February 5, 2025

·         Results Announcement: February 8, 2025

·         Total Voters: 1.56 crore (83.76 lakh men, 72.36 lakh women, 1,267 third-gender voters)

·         Security Arrangements: 220 paramilitary companies, 19,000 home guards, and 35,626 Delhi police personnel

·         Holiday Declared: Paid holiday for all employees in government and private sectors, including shops and businesses

Top Updates Before Voting Day

Political War of Words

·         Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal of corruption.

·         Kejriwal responded by criticizing the BJP government’s budget and tax policies.

·         Congress candidate Sandeep Dikshit mocked Kejriwal’s confidence in winning 55 out of 70 seats.

Election Commission's Role

·         The EC has assured strict monitoring to prevent any election violations.

·         Security forces will be on high alert to ensure smooth polling.

·         Mobile phones, smartwatches, and cameras are banned inside polling booths.

AAP vs. BJP

·         AAP claims there have been cases of voter suppression and threats.

·         BJP MP Harsh Malhotra said Kejriwal will soon start blaming EVMs as an excuse for losing power.

·         Delhi CM Atishi and AAP chief Kejriwal met the EC, alleging election malpractice.

Crime and Security Measures

·         14 proclaimed offenders arrested.

·         25 FIRs filed for Model Code of Conduct violations.

·         340 arrests made in the last 24 hours.

·         1,835 liters of liquor were seized and 278 people were arrested for drinking in public.

·         2,500 cops are guarding East Delhi, with all 22 borders sealed.

Key Candidates in the Fray

·         New Delhi Seat: Arvind Kejriwal (AAP) vs. Parvesh Verma (BJP) vs. Sandeep Dikshit (Congress)

·         BJP's Stand: BJP leaders claim Delhi voters are angry with AAP and will vote for a change.

·         Congress' Role: Congress aims for a comeback after failing to win any seats in the last election.

Past Election Results

·         2020: AAP won 62 out of 70 seats; BJP got 8; Congress won 0.

·         2015: AAP swept 67 out of 70 seats; BJP won 3; Congress got none.

·         BJP has not ruled Delhi for 27 years.

Weather Forecast for Polling Week

·         February 5: 22-24°C during the day, 9-11°C at night; cloudy skies with possible rain.

·         February 6: Slightly warmer at 23-25°C during the day and 8-10°C at night.

·         February 7-8: 24-26°C in the day, 8-10°C at night, with foggy mornings and clear afternoons.

·         February 9: 24-26°C during the day, 10-12°C at night, with a mild breeze.

Final Word

Delhi is gearing up for a crucial election. With tight security, increased vigilance, and major political parties battling it out, February 5 will be a big day for the capital. Make sure to vote and have your say in shaping Delhi’s future!

 

Breaking news 4th Feb 2025

US Deports Indian Migrants on Military Aircraft in First under Trump’s New Term

Illegal Indian immigrants after they were deported from the US, at Terminal 3, IGI airport, in New Delhi. (Representative file image)(Sanchit Khanna/HT PHOTO)

In a first since Donald Trump’s return to the White House, the US has deported a group of illegal Indian migrants on a C-17 military aircraft. A US official confirmed to Reuters that the plane departed with the deportees but would take at least 24 hours to reach India.

The Trump administration has ramped up efforts to curb illegal immigration, deploying military resources to support its agenda, including additional troops at the US-Mexico border and military aircraft for deportations.

President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have raised concerns about illegal Indian immigrants in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Trump stated that India would "do what is right" in accepting deported nationals.

The White House described Trump and Modi’s recent conversation as "productive," emphasizing their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation. Hindustan Times

PM Modi to Visit US on February 12 for Talks with President Trump

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the US on February 12-13 for a bilateral meeting with President Donald Trump, according to sources. This will be Modi’s first visit to Washington since Trump’s re-election.

The visit comes amid Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration, with reports suggesting over 18,000 illegal Indian immigrants may be deported. Trade discussions are also expected, as Trump has previously criticized India's tariffs on American goods. Before heading to Washington, PM Modi will conclude a two-day visit to Paris.

 

BREAKING NEWS 3rd FEB2025

Trump Ends Protections for Venezuelans, Faces Backlash

The Trump administration has revoked Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 300,000 Venezuelans in the U.S., putting them at risk of deportation. Those who received TPS in 2023 will lose protection 60 days after the official termination notice. Immigrant rights groups are expected to challenge the decision.

The New York Times

 

Trade War Escalates with Retaliatory Tariffs

In response to Trump's trade measures, Canada announced 25% tariffs on $100 billion in U.S. goods, including honey, whiskey, and tomatoes. China and Mexico also vowed countermeasures, raising fears of a global economic shift favoring China. Trump defended the tariffs despite acknowledging potential economic pain. Ref The New York Times

Top News Briefs The new York times

India: The Maha Kumbh Mela, a massive religious festival, is being leveraged as a political tool by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his allies.

 

Maha Kumbh Mela

Diplomacy: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in Washington for key meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump.

Nature: Scientists from Canada and the U.S. are investigating the cause of brain swelling linked to mysterious great white shark deaths.

Music: Young women dominated pop music this year and are set to make waves at the Grammys. Here's how to watch the event.

Middle East: Hamas released three more hostages, while Israel freed over 180 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday.

 

Africa: Goma residents in the Democratic Republic of Congo face severe shortages of food and water after Rwanda-backed rebels took control.

U.S.: Investigators are examining why an American Airlines plane suddenly turned upward before colliding with an Army helicopter last week.

 

Sports

Chess: Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa won the Tata Steel Masters 2025, defeating World Champion D Gukesh in a thrilling tiebreak in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands, on February 2. He is the first Indian to claim the title since Viswanathan Anand in 2006. The two young stars were tied after 13 classical rounds in the 14-player event.

R Praggnanandhaa PTI photo

Soccer: Arsenal delivered a stunning 5-1 victory over Manchester City at Emirates Stadium.

Golf: Rory McIlroy’s flawless seven-under 65 lit up Pebble Beach in California.

Hockey: The Minnesota Wild’s Ryan Hartman may face a significant suspension after shoving Ottawa’s Tim Stützle’s face into the ice.

Bottom of Form

 LOCAL NEWS  ASSAM

Asom Sahitya Sabha Draws Record Crowd at 77th Session.

CULTURAL PROCESSION, PATSALA SAHITYA SABHA 

The 77th session of the Asom Sahitya Sabha witnessed an unprecedented gathering of over 10 lakh people at Bhattadev Kshetra in Pathsala, Bajali. The massive event blended literary enthusiasm, cultural heritage, and scientific innovation, celebrating Assam’s rich traditions. Traditional Assamese instruments like the dhol, taal, and nagara filled the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the historic occasion.

  

Breaking News 2nd Feb 2025

 

At least 5 dead, several injured as bus carrying pilgrims falls into gorge in Gujarat
Five people were killed and several injured after a bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge in Gujarat's Dang district on Sunday, as per a PTI report. 

Trump Imposes Tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico

Donald Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced new import tariffs from China, Canada, and Mexico. He imposed a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada and a 10% tariff on products from China. Canadian energy imports will have an extra 10% tariff.

The White House said the tariffs are meant to address illegal immigration and the spread of fentanyl, a deadly drug. Trump used a special law, the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), to put these tariffs in place.

Nashik: At least seven people lost their lives, and 15 others sustained serious injuries after a luxury bus plunged into a 200-foot gorge on the Nashik-Gujarat Highway early Sunday morning.

The accident occurred around 5:30 am, following which emergency teams rushed the injured to a nearby hospital. Authorities are investigating the cause of the mishap

Trump announced on his Truth Social account that he is taking action to protect Americans and fulfill his campaign promise to stop illegal immigration and drug trafficking. The White House also confirmed that there will be no exceptions to these tariffs.

Canada, Mexico Respond to Trump’s 25% Tariff Announcement

Following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed to retaliate. He stated that Canada would impose a 25% tariff on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods, starting with $30 billion on Tuesday and an additional $125 billion in the next 21 days.

Meanwhile, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum responded by emphasizing that tariffs do not solve problems. She stated that Mexico seeks cooperation, not conflict, with neighboring countries.

Assam Sahitya Sabha Creates Record with Largest Japi

Largest Japi in Assam Sahitya Sabha

Pathsala, Feb 1: The Assam Sahitya Sabha has set a record by making the largest Japi ever, earning a place in the India Book of Records. This giant traditional Assamese hat was unveiled at the 77th Biennial Pathsala Conference in Bhattadev Khetra, Bajali.

The Japi measures 555 square meters with a 13.3-meter radius and is made from bamboo, cane, and palm leaves using traditional methods.

The event also included a science fair, book fair, and cultural programs. Krishna Roy, an Assam Saurav Award winner, inaugurated a symbolic gateway to literature and culture.

Over 400 guests from India and abroad, including writers from the US, UK, Germany, Nepal, and Arunachal Pradesh, are attending the week-long conference. Cultural performances by artists like Pulak Banerjee, Mithun Dhar, Bipin Chawdang, Achurya Barpathra, Priyanka Bharali, and Joy Barua will take place. The event will also feature classical and folk dances, including Satriya and Devdasi performances, and an exhibition of traditional costumes.

This grand celebration of Assamese art, literature, and heritage highlights Assam’s rich cultural legacy.

 

The celebrations will culminate on February 4 with cultural acts by Achurya Barpathra, Priyanka Bharali, and Joy Barua, alongside an exhibition of traditional costumes from Assam and the Northeast.                         Ref Assam Tribune.

Bumrah & Mandhana Win Best Indian Cricketer Award

Bumrah & Mandhana

Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and women’s team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana were honored as the Best Indian International Cricketers at the BCCI Annual Awards in Mumbai. Sachin Tendulkar received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Bumrah played a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup victory and was the Player of the Series in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, taking 32 wickets. Mandhana was the highest run-scorer in women’s cricket in 2024, scoring 743 runs with four ODI centuries. Their outstanding performances earned them this prestigious recognition.

Breaking News Today

Union Budget 2025: Key Announcements and Major Highlights

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 in Parliament on February 1, unveiling significant measures aimed at boosting economic growth and providing relief to taxpayers. The budget, which is the first full budget of the third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, introduced various reforms and policies focusing on multiple sectors, including taxation, agriculture, MSMEs, and healthcare.

Income Tax Relief: A Major Announcement

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One of the most anticipated aspects of Budget 2025 was income tax relief. The finance minister announced that under the new tax regime, individuals with an annual income of up to ₹12 lakh will not be required to pay any income tax. This move is expected to provide relief to middle-class taxpayers and boost disposable income, thereby driving consumption and economic growth. Additionally, Sitharaman confirmed that a new and simplified Income Tax Bill will be introduced next week, aiming to streamline tax compliance.

Key Sectoral Announcements

MSMEs and Industrial Growth

·         The finance minister announced new classification criteria for micro, small, and medium enterprise enterprises (MSMEs), aiming to ease regulatory burdens and promotes sectoral growth.

·         A focused scheme has been introduced to promote the footwear and leather industry, which is expected to generate employment and enhance exports.

Healthcare and Medical Education

·         A major boost to the healthcare sector was announced with the addition of 75,000 new medical seats over the next five years to address the shortage of medical professionals and improve healthcare access.

Infrastructure and Aviation

·         The government unveiled a modified ‘Udaan’ scheme to enhance regional air connectivity and support the aviation sector.

·         Infrastructure projects received a strong push with enhanced budgetary allocations for roads, highways, and urban development.

Budget Session and Parliamentary Proceedings

The Budget Session 2025 commenced on January 31, 2025, with President Droupadi Murmu's address to both Houses of Parliament. The session is divided into two phases:

·         Phase 1: January 31–February 10–April 13, which includes the Union Budget presentation.

·         Phase 2: March 10 – April 4, which will focus on discussions and approvals.

Stock Market Reaction

Ahead of the budget announcement, the stock market opened flat on Saturday in a special trading session. Investors are closely monitoring the impact of the budgetary measures on various sectors.

Historic Feat for Nirmala Sitharaman

With this budget, Nirmala Sitharaman has become the first finance minister to present eight consecutive Union Budgets. However, she does not hold the record for the highest number of budget presentations.

The Union Budget 2025 is expected to bring positive momentum to key sectors while providing relief to taxpayers. The upcoming weeks will determine the overall impact of these announcements as businesses and individuals analyse the finer details of the proposed policies.

 

 Small Plane Crashes in Philadelphia, Reports Say Six Dead

Small Plane Crashes in Philadelphia, Reports Say Six Dead

Philadelphia, PA – A Learjet 55 crashed shortly after takeoff from Northeast Philadelphia Airport, reportedly killing at least six people. The incident occurred 30 seconds after departure, triggering a massive explosion, as in circulating videos.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed two people were aboard the plane, but reports from BNO News suggest the death toll is higher. The jet was en route to Springfield, Missouri. Emergency crews responded to the fiery scene as investigations into the cause continued.

 

Varanasi Faces Crowds, Ganga Aarti Closed to Public Until Feb 5

·  Stay Indoors Advisory: Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal urges residents to avoid unnecessary travel and support devotees.

·  Ganga Aarti Closed: Public access to Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh, Sheetla, and Assi Ghats is restricted until February 5.

·  Devotees Stranded: Large crowds from Prayagraj Mahakumbh lead to congestion at Varanasi Cantt and Banaras railway stations, with train cancellations adding to the issue.

Gandhi Criticizes Lack of Representation in Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget-making Process

Speaking at a rally in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi accused the budget-making process of being dominated by a select few, highlighting the absence of Dalits, tribals, backward classes, and minorities. He pointed out the disproportionate representation of OBC officers and questioned the fairness of budget allocations.

IND vs ENG 4th T20I: India Wins by 15 Runs, Takes 3-1 Lead in Series

India defeated England by 15 runs in the 4th T20I at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. With this win, India has secured a 3-1 lead in the five-match series.

Batting first, India scored 181/9 in 20 overs. Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube played crucial knocks, both scoring half-centuries. England could only manage 166 runs in response, losing all wickets despite a strong start. Ravi Bishnoi and Harshit Rana took three wickets each for India.

For England, Harry Brook scored a quick 51 runs, while Ben Duckett made 39. Saqib Mahmood was England’s best bowler, taking three wickets. Earlier in the series, India won the first two matches, while England won the third. With this win, India has sealed the series.

PM Modi to Attend AI Action Summit in France

French President Emmanuel Macron has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit, and India has accepted the invitation, said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

The summit will take place on February 10-11 at the Grand Palais in France, bringing together world leaders, tech experts, and industry representatives.

Jaiswal also mentioned that India is developing its own AI program and is working with global partners to strengthen AI technology. Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that India will soon host open-source AI models like DeepSeek on Indian servers.