Politics News in English

The Indian Express

Feb 17, 2026, 04:49 PM

Cricket Captains Unite to Demand Fair Treatment for Imprisoned Ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan

Some of cricket’s most celebrated figures, from Sunil Gavaskar to Greg Chappell, set aside old rivalries on Tuesday and signed a joint appeal demanding that Pakistan’s government treat the imprisoned former prime minister and World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan with basic dignity, provide urgent medical care and guarantee fair access to courts. The open letter was signed by 14 former captains spanning six decades of the game, including Mike Atherton of England; Allan Border, and Ian and Greg Chappell, of Australia; Gavaskar and Kapil Dev of India; Clive Lloyd of the West Indies; and John Wright of New Zealand. Speaking to The Indian Express , Kapil said, “The former international captains and I have signed the letter. I stand by what is said in the letter regarding Imran Khan.” Writing in The Times , London, Atherton said the initiative originated with Greg Chappell, who rallied the group and provided the impetus for a united voice from the cricketing world — a pointed rebuke to Islamabad at a moment of deepening concern over Imran’s health. “As fellow cricketers who understand the values of fair play, honour, and respect that transcend the boundary rope, we believe that a person of Imran Khan’s stature deserves to be treated with the dignity and basic human consideration befitting a former national leader and a global sporting icon,” reads the open letter dated February 17. Imran, 73, led Pakistan to its only World Cup victory, in 1992 in Australia, a triumph that cemented his status as a national icon. He later entered politics, founding the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, and served as prime minister from 2018 to 2022, when he was removed from office in a no-confidence vote. He has been held in detention since August 2023 on a slew of charges that his supporters maintain are politically motivated, and is currently serving two separate sentences of 17 years and 14 years. Concerns over Imran’s physical condition have mounted sharply in recent weeks. Atherton reported in The Times that the former Pakistan captain is close to losing sight in his right eye. Imran is being held at Adiala prison in Rawalpindi where, according to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture, Alice Jill Edwards, he has been subjected to extended periods of solitary confinement, confined to his cell for 23 hours a day with severely restricted access to the outside world and under constant camera surveillance. The captains outlined three specific demands: “medical attention from doctors of Mr. Khan’s own choosing”; “humane and dignified conditions of detention in line with international standards”, including regular visits by close family members; and “fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or hindrance”. The signatories were careful to note that their appeal was made “without prejudice to any legal proceedings”. Within Pakistan, the cricket fraternity has been rallying in support of Imran. Atherton noted in The Times that Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis, two of Imran’s most celebrated fast-bowling proteges, took to social media urging authorities to allow their former captain access to proper medical care . Their calls were echoed by Ramiz Raja, Shoaib Akhtar and Shahid Afridi. Imran is regarded as a father figure to many in Pakistani cricket. The letter invoked cricket’s long history as a bridge between nations. “Our shared history on the field reminds us that rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn — and respect endures,” the signatories wrote. Several competed directly against Imran during his playing career, which stretched from 1971 to 1992. The breadth of the group, crossing national, generational and political lines, lent the appeal unusual weight. Belinda Clark of Australia, widely regarded as one of the greatest women’s cricketers in history, was also among the signatories. The other signatories include Michael Brearley, David Gower and Nasser Hussain (England); and, Kim Hughes and Steve Waugh (Australia). Pakistani government officials have previously described the charges against Imran as lawful and have rejected characterisations of his prosecution as political persecution, arguing that no individual, regardless of their standing, is above the rule of law.

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NorthEast Now

Feb 17, 2026, 04:30 PM

Tripura Congress Opposes MGNREGA Repeal, Demands Restoration of Original Act

Agartala:TheTripura Pradesh Congresson Tuesday submitted a memorandum to the Governor opposing the repeal and restructuring of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and demanding its restoration in what it described as its “original right-based form.”The party organised a “Lok Bhavan March” in Agartala as part of the protest. The rally was stopped by security personnel near the Circuit House, officials said. A delegation of party leaders later proceeded toRaj Bhavanand handed over the memorandum.Addressing the gathering, PCC president Asish Kumar Saha and AICC invitee member and MLA Sudip Roy Barman outlined the party’s objections to the newly enacted legislation, referred to in the memorandum as the VB-GRAM-G Act.In the memorandum, the Congress stated, “The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) has been the cornerstone of rural livelihood security, providing employment to 5–6 crore families annually.”It further said that the Act had “reduced distress migration” and “increased rural wages,” adding that direct bank payments benefited “particularly women, Dalits, Adivasis, and marginalized communities, with women accounting for nearly 60% of total workdays.”The party recalled that the Act, enacted in 2005, was “a right-based law that guaranteed every rural household the legal right to demand wage employment,” and that the state government was required to provide work within 15 days of demand, failing which unemployment allowance was payable.Expressing concern over the new legislation, the memorandum stated, “The new Act removes the legal guarantee of work, centralizes decision-making power with the Union Government, reduces the power of the State Government, and weakens Panchayats.” It also alleged that “the new Act reduces the Union Government’s wage contribution from 90% to 60%, thereby shifting the financial burden onto States and workers.”The party further claimed that “budget-capped allocations, restrictions on work during agricultural seasons, and dilution of wage safeguards will inevitably lead to reduced employment, suppressed wages, and increased rural distress.”It also objected to the removal of Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the scheme, stating that it reflected an attempt to dilute the values underpinning the original legislation.The memorandum said the Congress had opposed the Bill in Parliament, but it was passed and enacted. It informed the Governor that the Congress Working Committee had resolved to launch a nationwide movement titled “MGNREGA Bachao Sangram” to defend the right to work.The party urged the Governor to take necessary steps in the matter, submitting the memorandum “for your kind perusal and necessary action.”Related

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Financial Express

Feb 17, 2026, 04:14 PM

India's PM Modi Invites Bangladeshi Counterpart Tarique Rahman for Visit, Congratulates on Election Win

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Tarique Rahman, the newly sworn-in prime minister of Bangladesh, to India. PM Modi’s invitation to the Bangladesh leader was conveyed by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who attended the oath ceremony in Dhaka today. Om Birla handed over the letter by PM Modi to Tarique Rahman. The letter from PM Modi read, “I extend my warmest congratulations to you on the victory of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party at the just-concluded parliamentary elections in Bangladesh and on your appointment as the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh.” PM Modi is learnt to have extended an invitation to Rahman, his wife Dr Zubaida and his daughter Zaima to visit India at a “mutually convenient time”. “A warm welcome awaits you in India,” he added in the congratulatory letter. According to a report by the Indian Express, PM Modi could not attend the event as he was scheduled to hold talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai on Tuesday. On reaching Dhaka, Birla called the swearing-in of Rahman an important moment that would strengthen people-to-people relations and shared democratic values between the two neighbours. “Honoured to be in Dhaka representing India at the swearing-in ceremony of the new government led by Tariqueâ€¯Rahman as the prime minister. It’s an important moment that will strengthen people-to-people ties and shared democratic values between our two nations,” Birla said. Birla was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other officials. Led by Rahman, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) swept the polls with a two-thirds majority with 49.97 per cent votes. The Jamaat-e-Islami, which was opposed to Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971, registered its best-ever performance with 31.76 per cent votes and 68 seats. The National Citizen Party (NCP) secured six seats, and 3.05 per cent votes. Bangladesh had invited Narendra Modi to the ceremony, but the prime minister could not attend the event as he was scheduled to hold talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai on Tuesday. PM Modi was the first world leader to congratulate Rahman on the election win. The BNP has already indicated it will formally request the extradition of Sheikh Hasina, who remains in exile in India and was sentenced to death in absentia by a war crimes tribunal in November 2025. India remains vocal about the safety of Bangladesh’s Hindu population. PM Modi’s congratulatory message specifically emphasized a “progressive and inclusive” Bangladesh, a subtle reference to protecting religious minorities. With the Ganga Water Treaty set to expire in December 2026, the new government has listed its renewal and the cessation of “violence fulled killings” as top priorities.

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Financial Express

Feb 17, 2026, 03:56 PM

Nicki Minaj's Presidents Day Post Sparks Outrage: A Shift in Political Alignment?

Nicki Minaj found herself at the centre of online debate once again after marking Presidents Day with a series of AI-generated images featuring Donald Trump. The post, shared on her X account on Monday, February 16, has strengthened public perception of her growing alignment with the US president. The two images show Minaj seated in the passenger seat of a convertible while Trump drives. Both are dressed in matching pink-and-white outfits with chain necklaces, leaning into a highly stylised, almost cartoon-like aesthetic. In one image, Trump flashes an “OK” hand gesture as Minaj looks directly at the camera. In the second, Minaj appears to be counting stacks of cash, with more money placed beside Trump. She captioned the images simply: “Happy #PresidentsDay”. Minaj has often resisted being boxed into any political category, her recent public appearances and statements have made such speculation difficult to avoid. In November 2025, she spoke at a conference organised by the United Nations, where she talked about what she described as the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. During the speech, she thanked Trump for “his leadership on the global stage,” a remark that garnered a lot of attention. Happy #PresidentsDay pic.twitter.com/uVvRK4MnJ5 Her presence at conservative gatherings has also stood out. In December, Minaj attended AmericaFest, hosted by Turning Point USA. There, she spoke with Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, and expressed her “utmost respect” for the commander in chief. For many observers, this marked a clear shift from ambiguity to open admiration. That perception was reinforced in late January when Minaj attended the Trump Accounts Summit in Washington, DC. Speaking at the event, she declared herself “the president’s No. 1 fan” and added that it is “not going to change.” Photographs from the summit, including one in which she was briefly seen holding hands with Trump, circulated widely across social media platforms. The Presidents Day post led a wave of backlash online, particularly from fans who were unhappy with her political stance. One user wrote, “Why are you so obsessed?” while another said, “Never listening to your music again.” Others were more blunt, calling the images “deeply unserious behavior” and describing her actions as “embarrassing.” One comment summed up the frustration felt by many critics, stating, “you have hit a new low.”

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News18✓

Feb 17, 2026, 03:49 PM

India and France Strengthen Ties with 'Special Global Strategic Partnership'

India and France on Tuesday elevated their ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership", with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron agreeing to deepen cooperation in defence, trade and technology. Prime Minister Modi hosted Macron for talks in Mumbai during the French leader’s three-day visit to India from February 17 to 19. Macron is also attending the AI Impact Summit. “India and France share a very special relationship," PM Modi said in a statement. “On the basis of this same trust and shared vision, today we are establishing our relationship as a ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’." ALSO READ: PM Modi, Macron Share Car Ride To India-France Innovation Forum In Mumbai The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a list of 21 outcomes from the visit, covering political, defence, economic and technology sectors. 21 Key Takeaways From Macron’s Visit

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Financial Express

Feb 17, 2026, 03:42 PM

EPFO to Finalize Interest Rate on EPF Deposits for FY26

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is holding a crucial meeting on March 2 to finalize the interest rate on Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) deposits for the financial year 2025-26 (FY26). The Central Board of Trustees (CBT), EPFO’s highest decision-making body comprising government nominees, employer representatives, and trade union members, determines the rate based on the returns generated by EPFO’s investments. The expectations are high that the EPFO may retain the interest rate at 8.25% for the third consecutive year. Political considerations are also at play. With assembly elections looming in states namely West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala, and the UT of Puducherry, the government may prioritise avoiding any reduction that could affect salaried employees’ sentiment. According to reports, the EPFO manages a massive corpus of Rs 25-26 lakh crore. The EPF remains a cornerstone of retirement planning, offering tax-free, guaranteed returns that often surpass bank fixed deposits and small savings schemes. The previous meeting of the EPFO held in October and a number of decisions were taken during the meeting, including simplification and liberalisation of the EPF partial withdrawal provisions. “To enhance ease of living for EPF members, CBT decided to simplify the partial withdrawal provisions of the EPF scheme by merging 13 complex provisions into a single, streamlined rule categorised into three types, namely, Essential Needs (illness, education, marriage), Housing Needs, and Special Circumstances,” the Ministry of Labour and Employment had said. Withdrawal limits were also liberalised. Education withdrawals allowed up to 10 times and marriage up to five times (from the existing limit of a total of three partial withdrawals for marriage and education in all), the ministry had said. The requirement of minimum service has been uniformly reduced to only 12 months for all partial withdrawals, the ministry had said.

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Latestly

Feb 17, 2026, 03:38 PM

Ramadan 2026: Digital Greetings Surge as Holy Month Begins in Gulf Countries

As religious authorities confirm sighting of the Ramadan 2026 crescent moon today, Tuesday, February 17, in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE and other Gulf countries, millions are preparing to exchange traditional greetings for the holy month. The digital exchange of "Ramadan Mubarak" wishes, "Ramadan Kareem" greetings and "Happy Ramadan" messages and images has already begun to surge across platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and X. This year’s greetings reflect a blend of traditional spiritual themes and a shift toward "Winter Ramadan" aesthetics, marked by shorter days and cooler temperatures in many parts of the world.Ramadan 2026 Guide: Full List of What Breaks Your Fast and What Doesn’t. While often used interchangeably, the two primary greetings carry distinct nuances. "Ramadan Mubarak" translates to "Blessed Ramadan," a straightforward wish for a holy month. In contrast, "Ramadan Kareem" means "Generous Ramadan," reflecting the belief that the month brings an abundance of spiritual rewards. In South Asia, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, the phrase "Ramzan Chand Mubarak" is the preferred greeting immediately following the first sighting of the hilal (crescent moon).Ramadan 2026 Date in India: When Will Ramzan Begin? Current digital trends show a preference for concise, meaningful messages. Popular templates for the 2026 season include: Ramadan Kareem Greetings:Wishing You and Your Loved Ones a Blessed Ramadan. May Your Home Be Filled With the Warmth of Faith, the Joy of Shared Iftars, and the Grace of Allah’s Countless Blessings. Ramadan Mubarak Wishes:As the Crescent Moon Appears, May It Light Your Path Toward Enlightenment and Strength. Wishing You a Ramadan Filled With Clarity, Devotion, and a Spirit of Gratitude. Happy Ramadan Wallpaper:Ramadan Kareem! May Your Prayers Be Answered and Your Month Be Filled With Moments of Serenity and Kindness. Have a Beautiful and Blessed Month Ahead! Ramadan Kareem Wishes:Happy Ramadan to You and Your Family! May Your Iftars Be Filled With Delicious Food, Laughter, and the Company of Those You Love Most. Ramadan Mubarak Wishes:Ramadan Mubarak! May This Month Be a Journey From Darkness to Light for All of Us. Wishing You a Month of Strength and Serenity. Have a Blessed and Productive Ramadan! Ramadan Kareem Message For Family:May this holy month strengthen our faith and deepen our bonds. Ramadan Mubarak to you and your family. Ramadan Kareem Message For Professional Use:Wishing you and your family a peaceful and blessed Ramadan. May this month inspire growth and harmony. Spiritual Reflections:Ramadan is the perfect time to reset and recharge. May your prayers be answered and your heart be at peace. The 2026 season has seen a significant rise in AI-generated "Winter Ramadan" imagery. High-definition (HD) graphics featuring lanterns (Fanous), intricate geometric patterns, and soft blue or silver color palettes are currently the most downloaded. Social media users are moving away from overly crowded designs, opting instead for minimalist calligraphy and "aesthetic" short-form video statuses (Reels) that feature calming ambient sounds and time-lapse sunsets. Cultural experts note that while digital images are a staple of modern communication, the timing of the greeting remains important. In many GCC countries, it is customary to wait for the official announcement from the Supreme Court or national sighting committees before sending mass messages. Furthermore, "Ramadan Kareem" is typically used throughout the month, while "Ramadan Mubarak" is most popular during the first few days and again leading into the final ten nights of worship. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 17, 2026 09:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our websitelatestly.com).

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The Free Press Journal

Feb 17, 2026, 03:23 PM

Bangladesh's BNP Chief Tarique Rahman Takes Oath as Prime Minister with 25 Cabinet Ministers

Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Tarique Rahman on Tuesday took the oath as Prime Minister. Along with him, 25 leaders took the oath as cabinet ministers. Among the ministers sworn in was a leader from the Hindu community, Nitai Roy Chowdhury. Who is Nitai Roy Chowdhury? Nitai Roy Chowdhury is a veteran Bangladeshi politician and lawyer. He serves as the current Vice Chairman of the party. Chowdhury was sworn in as a minister and was elected as a Member of Parliament from the Magura-2 constituency, where he defeated a candidate from Jamaat-e-Islami. Roy Chowdhury has been a vocal critic of the Awami League. He was born in Magura district in 1949 and completed his early education at Magura Government College. Roy Chowdhury then attended the University of Dhaka, where he pursued law. Nitai Roy Chowdhury is married to Jhuma, and they have three children. Although portfolio allocation has not yet been officially announced, local reports have suggested that he might be given the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. Earlier, Roy Chowdhury served as Youth and Sports Minister in the Hussain Muhammad Ershad government. Who are the 25 cabinet ministers? Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Amir Khoshru Mahmud Chowdhury, Salahuddin Ahmed, Iqbal Hasan Mahmud, Maj (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram, Abu Jafar Md Zahid Hossain, Dr Khalilur Rahman (Technocrat), Abdul Awal Mintoo, Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad, Mizanur Rahman Minu, Nitai Roy Chowdhury, Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, Ariful Haque Chowdhury, Zahir Uddin Swapon, Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid (Technocrat), Afroza Khanam Rita, Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie, Asadul Habib Dulu, Md Asaduzzaman, Zakaria Taher, Dipen Dewan, ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon, Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain, Fakir Mahbub Anam and Sheikh Rabiul Alam.

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Latestly

Feb 17, 2026, 03:19 PM

Pakistan vs Namibia: ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Group A Match Preview

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 returns to the capital on Wednesday, 18 February, for a high-stakes Group A fixture between Pakistan and Namibia. Following a heavy 61-run defeat to India on Sunday, Salman Ali Agha’s Pakistan side must secure a victory at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) to ensure their progression to the Super 8 stage.T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 Schedule: Who Plays Whom! Groups and Format Explained. However, after a week of unsettled weather in Sri Lanka, both teams will be monitoring the skies. While the "low-pressure area" that threatened earlier matches has moved, Colombo remains under a humid tropical air mass typical of the region in mid-February. The weather outlook for Wednesday afternoon in Colombo suggests a mix of sun and cloud, though the threat of passing showers remains a factor for the ground staff. ConditionForecast Detail As this is an afternoon game (15:00 local time), the high humidity levels will likely make conditions physically demanding for the players. Unlike the R. Premadasa Stadium, the SSC has a smaller capacity and a different drainage profile, though it remains one of the premier venues in the country.ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Points Table With Net Run-Rate (NRR). Under ICC tournament rules for the group stage, there are no reserve days. Should rain prevent a minimum of five overs per side from being completed, the points will be split: Pakistan:Would move to 5 points. This would be enough for them to qualify for Super 8 as USA, who have played all their matches, have only four points. Namibia:Would earn their first point of the tournament, though they have already been eliminated from Super 8 contention. Pitch Report: The SSC Surface The Sinhalese Sports Club has hosted four games in the current tournament, with an average first-innings total of 169. The surface has traditionally favoured spinners, a factor that Pakistan will look to exploit with their spin-heavy attack featuring Abrar Ahmed and Shadab Khan. Ground reports suggest the pitch for Match 35 is a fresh one, likely to offer good bounce early on before slowing down. With the high humidity forecast, the toss-winning captain is expected to bat first to avoid the physical toll of fielding in the peak afternoon heat. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 17, 2026 08:03 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our websitelatestly.com).

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The Free Press Journal

Feb 17, 2026, 03:18 PM

Macron Praises India as Global Innovation Leader, Reaffirms France's Commitment to Strategic Partnership

Mumbai:Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday praised India as a global innovation leader, saying the country does not just participate in innovation, it leads it. Speaking at the India–France Innovation Forum in Mumbai, he highlighted that the CEOs of Alphabet, Microsoft, IBM, Adobe, Palo Alto Networks and Chanel are of Indian origin. Let us know! 👂What type of content would you like to see from us this year? Not just this, the French President also reaffirmed France’s commitment to India, saying, “We are here. We want to be here with you. And we are not leaving.” Let us know! 👂What type of content would you like to see from us this year? While speaking at the India–France Innovation Forum, the French President also highlighted France’s role as a “steadfast partner” in the Make in India initiative, particularly in the defence sector, highlighting joint efforts to develop next-generation engines, multi-role helicopters, advanced combat aircraft and submarines. He also added that this is just not a defence contract, but 'a series of defence contracts.' Described bilateral ties as a “sovereign alliance”, Macron also said, "Two great nations choosing each other on land, at sea and in the sky, not by default but by conviction. And our cooperation is also crucial in the space sector. The development of the TRISHNA satellite shows what we can achieve when scientific excellence and industrial expertise are brought together..." Prior to the inauguration of India–France Innovation Forum, PM Modi and President Macron also addressed a joint press briefing. PM Modi described India-France ties as “special" and a force for global stability amid global uncertainty after he held bilateral talks with President Macron in Mumbai's Lok Bhavan. He added that India and France share a very special relationship. "France is one of India’s oldest strategic partners. And together with President Macron, we have given this strategic partnership unprecedented depth and energy," he said. Earlier, the two leaders, following their talks in Mumbai, also virtually inaugurated an assembly line in Karnataka's Vemagal to build Airbus H125 helicopters, which is expected to enhance India's aerospace manufacturing capabilities. The two sides inked a total of 21 agreements and documents providing for the deepening of cooperation in an array of areas, including critical minerals, defence, high technology, renewable energy, and health. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit:https://budgetproperties.in/

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Feb 17, 2026, 03:17 PM

African MP Embarks on Epic Journey to Promote Visa-Free Travel Across Continent

In 160 days, a formerGhanaianMP has driven across cities, border posts, and coastlines covering 40,000 kilometers through 31 African countries in a campaign for a visa-free Africa and to push African leaders to fully embrace continental free movement under theAfrican Union's Agenda 2063. Join AfricaLink host Eddy Micah Jr as he unpacks the journey with Ras Mubarak and DW's Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena in Accra.

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The Free Press Journal

Feb 17, 2026, 03:16 PM

NCP Alleges Misuse of Public Funds in Navi Mumbai Drainage Project

Navi Mumbai, Feb 17:A controversy has emerged over an ongoing RCC drainage project near an NRI residential area in Navi Mumbai, with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) alleging that the work is unnecessary, substandard and a misuse of public funds. Complaint submitted to Municipal Commissioner Senior NCP leader and Navi Mumbai district president Bharat Jadhav has submitted a written complaint to the Municipal Commissioner of the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation, seeking an immediate site inspection and inquiry into the project. Questions raised over need for new drain According to the complaint, an RCC drain costing approximately Rs 3 crore is being constructed despite the existence of a natural stormwater drain developed earlier by the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) on both sides of the locality. Jadhav has questioned the need for the new structure and alleged that the quality of construction is poor. Allegations regarding project approvals The NCP leader further alleged that the project was proposed by a deputy engineer who had earlier figured in an inquiry related to alleged corruption and unnecessary drainage works. He claimed that repeated approvals for such projects raise concerns about oversight and accountability within the civic administration. Demand for inspection and review Focusing on the work itself, Jadhav demanded that civic officials conduct an immediate site inspection and issue corrective instructions to ensure quality if the project is allowed to continue. He also called for a review and cancellation of other similar drainage works proposed in areas where natural drains already exist. Also Watch: Copies of the complaint have been forwarded to senior civic officials, including the Additional Municipal Commissioner, City Engineer, Executive Engineer and Deputy Engineer. The civic administration has not issued an official response to the allegations so far. To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit:https://budgetproperties.in/

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Feb 17, 2026, 03:11 PM

Nigeria Investigates Chinese E-Commerce Giant Temu Over Data Protection Concerns

TheNigeriaData Protection Commission (NDPC) said it was investigating Chinese-ownede-commercegiant Temu amid concerns over itsdata protectionpractices. "The investigation into Temu was triggered by concerns around online surveillance through personal data processing, accountability, data minimization requirements, transparency, duty of care, and cross-border data transfer," the NDPC said in a statement published online late on Monday. The move in Africa's most populous country and one of its biggest markets comes amid rising global scrutiny of Temu's rapid international expansion. NDPC chief Vincent Olatunji ordered ‌the probe and warned that processors could be held liable for any non-compliance under the Nigeria Data Protection Act of 2023. The NDPC said in its statement that Temu handled the personal data of around 12.7 million Nigerians, based on its preliminary investigations. The Chinese-owned app-driven online discounter Temu is subject to a series of investigations in several countries, often as a result either ofdata protection concernsor product quality, compliance and pricing concerns. Last October,the European Commission announced an investigation, saying Temu was not doing enough to stop the sale of illegal products on its site. Its EU headquarters in Dublin was searched later that year. In the US, meanwhile, several states have accused Temu of data protection law breaches. In December, Arizona joined their ranks, alleging that the site tracked users and was obliged to pass data requested by the government to authorities in Beijing. "It can detect everywhere you go, to a doctor's office, to a public library, to a political event, to your friends' houses," Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said at the time. "So the scope of this invasion of privacy is enormous." Edited by: Louis Oelofse

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Latestly

Feb 17, 2026, 03:07 PM

India AI Impact Summit 2026: A New Global Pathway for Artificial Intelligence Emerges

Mumbai, February 17:Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam on Monday, February 16, marking a pivotal shift in the global technological hierarchy. As over 20 heads of state and 500 global tech leaders converged in the capital, the "India AI moment" was framed not merely as an industrial milestone, but as the emergence of a third global pathway for artificial intelligence. Unlike the private-capital-driven American model or the state-surveillance-heavy Chinese model, India’s approach treats AI as sovereign public infrastructure, designed to solve real-world constraints at a civilisational scale.India AI Impact Summit 2026: NPCI Extends ‘UPI One World’ Wallet to International Delegates. The five-day summit, the first major global AI gathering hosted in the Global South, underscores a growing international recognition that importing AI exclusively from traditional power blocs risks a new form of "cognitive dependency." To counter this, India is positioning itself as a "bridge power," offering a development-first blueprint that prioritises inclusion, safety, and affordability. Central to this strategy is the IndiaAI Mission, a full-stack ecosystem supported by a ₹10,300 crore investment aimed at democratizing access to high-end compute and indigenous datasets. The New Delhi deliberations highlighted a clear divergence in how intelligence is being architected globally. While the US model excels in speed and rapid innovation through corporations like OpenAI and Google, it faces risks of extreme data concentration. Conversely, the Chinese model demonstrates unparalleled coordination but raises concerns over individual liberty.India AI Impact Summit 2026: Tech Leaders Urge Professionals to Upskill and Embrace AI to Secure Future Jobs in India. India’s emerging model is shaped by "democracy at scale," treating AI as an extension of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), similar to the Aadhaar and UPI frameworks. By building a nationally accessible GPU backbone, onboarding over 38,000 GPUs, India is ensuring that foundational AI resources are not monopolized by a few firms but are available to startups and researchers at nearly 40% lower costs. A significant shift at the 2026 summit is the move away from simple generative media toward "consequential intelligence." This involves AI that understands and interacts with physical reality, such as monitoring infrastructure fatigue, predicting material failures, and managing urban flooding. To operationalise this, the government launched six AI Impact Casebooks on February 17, documenting over 170 scalable innovations across health, energy, and agriculture. These include tools for climate-smart development and "MuleHunter.AI," a system designed to detect financial fraud in digital payments at a national scale. The summit has effectively ended the illusion that technology is geographically neutral. With data centers requiring immense land and energy, and semiconductors tied to fragile supply chains, technological capability is once again inseparable from state power. India’s focus on Sovereign AI reflects a strategic preparation for a multipolar world where "sovereign compute" may shape diplomacy as deeply as energy reserves did in the 20th century. Across Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, nations are looking to India’s lived experience of building technology under scarcity. This "export of trusted intelligence" is projected to create a USD 50 billion AI services market for India by 2030, transitioning the country from a back-office hub to a global AI system-builder. Despite the focus on capability, the summit’s core philosophy remains anchored in the principle of "Sarvajana Hitaya, Sarvajana Sukhaya" (Welfare for all, happiness for all). Leaders emphasized that the real disruption of AI will be social before it is technological, testing whether societies can retrain workforces faster than they can alarm them. Prime Minister Modi allayed fears of job displacement, asserting that "preparation is the antidote to fear" and highlighting massive national skilling initiatives. Ultimately, the New Delhi summit suggests that the durability of the AI century will depend not on which nation leads in raw compute, but on whether human wisdom can mature fast enough to govern the intelligence it has created. TruLY Score 3 – Believable; Needs Further Research | On a Trust Scale of 0-5 this article has scored 3 on LatestLY, this article appears believable but may need additional verification. It is based on reporting from news websites or verified journalists (Goodreturns), but lacks supporting official confirmation. Readers are advised to treat the information as credible but continue to follow up for updates or confirmations (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 17, 2026 08:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our websitelatestly.com).

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NorthEast Now

Feb 17, 2026, 03:00 PM

BJP Gains Strength as Former Assam Congress President Bhupen Borah Set to Join Party

Guwahati:Former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah will formally join the BJP on February 22, Chief MinisterHimanta Biswa Sarmasaid on Tuesday evening.Sarma made the announcement at a press conference held at Borah’s residence in the Ghoramara area ofGuwahatifollowing a discussion with the former state Congress chief. The Chief Minister had visited Borah’s house earlier in the evening.“His joining will strengthen the party, particularly because he is a grassroots leader. He will formally join the BJP in the presence of Assam BJP president Dilip Saikia,” Sarma said.Borah joining the BJP will show that Congress is not a place for Hindus, CM Sarma claimed.He claimed Bora has struggled for a long time in the Congress party, and he will get a platform in the BJP to do what he wants.During the visit, Sarma was welcomed at Borah’s residence by his wife and son with a traditional ‘aarti’.Borah had resigned from the Congress on Monday. However, the party’s top leadership did not accept his resignation and attempted to persuade him to reconsider his decision. Following this, Borah sought time to rethink his move.Earlier, the Chief Minister had said that the doors of the BJP were open for Borah and assured that he would help him contest from a “safe seat” in the upcoming Assembly elections.Related

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NorthEast Now

Feb 17, 2026, 03:00 PM

BJP Sees Significant Gains in Dibrugarh District Amid Congress Leadership Crisis

Dibrugarh:TheBharatiya Janata Party(BJP), Dibrugarh District, organised a large joining programme at its district headquarters on Tuesday, marking a notable political development in Upper Assam following the resignation ofBhupen Borahfrom the Congress.The event, held at the BJP’s district office in Dibrugarh, saw the participation of key party leaders and office bearers, who formally welcomed a significant number of new entrants into the party fold.The gathering was characterised by enthusiasm and a strong display of organisational unity. According to party sources, several thousand youths, along with seniorCongressworkers and supporters, joined the BJP during the programme.The influx reportedly included members from Khowang, Duliajan, and Chabua-Lahowal constituencies, where the Congress is said to be facing a wave of defections amid the ongoing leadership crisis.Local observers described the scene at the BJP office premises as crowded, reflecting the scale of the political shift currently underway in Dibrugarh district.The joining programme was attended by senior BJP leaders, including Harish Dwivedi, who welcomed the new members and expressed confidence that the party’s developmental agenda and leadership at both the Centre and the State continue to resonate with the people.Addressing the gathering, district leaders highlighted the government’s achievements and emphasised the importance of strengthening grassroots outreach ahead of upcoming political engagements. They reiterated the party’s commitment to development, good governance, and public welfare.Political analysts note that the developments signal a significant realignment in Upper Assam’s political landscape, with Dibrugarh emerging as a focal point of transition following Borah’s resignation. Reactions from the Congress leadership are awaited.Related

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The Free Press Journal

Feb 17, 2026, 02:56 PM

BJP Gains Momentum in Assam with Senior Congress Leader Bhupen Kumar Borah's Defection

Assam Chief Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday announced that senior Congress leader Bhupen Kumar Borah will join the Bharatiya Janata Party on February 22, signalling a major political development in Assam. Speaking to reporters after meeting Borah at his residence in Guwahati, Sarma said, “Bhupen Borah will join BJP on 22nd February. Dilip Saikia will work out the details. Along with him, a good number of Congress leaders will join the BJP in Guwahati and North Lakhimpur.” Let us know! 👂What type of content would you like to see from us this year? Calling Borah “the last recognised Hindu leader in Congress,” the Chief Minister described his proposed entry into the BJP as a “homecoming.” He added that the party’s national leadership had approved the move and that Borah would be given “due respect and dignity.” The announcement comes just a day after Borah dramatically withdrew his resignation from the Congress following internal discussions with senior leaders. His brief resignation had exposed simmering tensions within the Assam Congress, with Borah hinting at disagreements over party decisions. Sarma had earlier termed Borah’s resignation “symbolic” of deeper troubles within the Congress and alleged that more leaders could follow suit. With the latest announcement, the political landscape in Assam appears set for another significant realignment ahead of upcoming electoral contests.

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First Post

Feb 17, 2026, 02:49 PM

Ellen DeGeneres Speaks Out on ICE Shooting and Renee Good, Amid Ongoing Controversy Over The Epstein Files

Former television host Ellen DeGeneres has also been embroiled in the ongoing controversy revolving around sexual offender Jeffrey Epstein’s The Epstein Files. These files alleged her to be a cannibal but all the rumours and reports have turned out to be false. Her criminal activities involving children are someone’s figments of imagination. A post on X by a user claimed, “The Epstein files expose Ellen DeGeneres as Hollywood’s “most prolific cannibal.” She ate children’s flesh.” However, there is no evidence against her alleged cannibalism. Ellen DeGeneresmakes political statement on Renee Good Minneapolis ICE shooting DeGeneres has issued a rare political statement in response to the fatal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, expressing sorrow, solidarity with peaceful demonstrators and a personal connection to the city where she recently worked. Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, was shot and killed by an ICE agentin Minneapolis on January 7, 2026, during a confrontation that erupted amid a large federal immigration enforcement operation known as Operation Metro Surge. The shooting has sparked ongoing protests and national debate about immigration enforcement and use of force by federal agents. DeGeneres’ message on ICE Shooting and Renee Good On January 18, DeGeneres shared a video message to Instagram in which she addressed the violence and unrest in Minneapolis. She said she was deeply affected by what has happened in the city, noting that she filmed her 2024 Netflix stand-up special,For Your Approval, in Minneapolis, a place she described as “the happiest city in America.” The drama aroundThe Epstein Filescontinues to hound social media and influential personalities. Many people from Hollywood and two from Bollywood have been named in these controversial files. And as per some documents submitted by the Trump administration, the new name is that of British supermodel Naomi Campbell. It seems Campbell was more than just an acquaintance of the sexual offender Jeffrey Epstein. A former boyfriend had introduced Naomi to Epstein at her 31st birthday party in 2001. The supermodel appears 300 times in the documents released by the Justice Department, though some files are duplicates. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.

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Kalinga TV

Feb 17, 2026, 02:48 PM

Odisha Leader Criticizes Government Over Lack of Progress and Deteriorating Security

Bhubaneswar:Leader of Opposition and BJD President Naveen Patnaik today criticised the State government following the Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati’s inaugural address at the Odisha Legislative Assembly. Addressing the media, the former Chief Minister criticized the lack of tangible progress and expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security environment in the state. Naveen Patnaik remarked that the address of the Odisha Governor in the state assembly was “long on words but short on action.” He further noted that the government could be described as being “short on work” despite the lengthy speech. The former Chief Minister asserted that the law and order situation under the current administration is in a “dreadful state.” He stated that the reports of violence and lawlessness currently emerging from Odisha are unparalleled anywhere else in India. This apart, Patnaik emphasized that he has been raising the issue of failing law and order “time and time again.”

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Deccan Herald

Feb 17, 2026, 02:41 PM

Karnataka Congress Leaders Await Decision on Leadership Issue

Bengaluru: Chief MinisterSiddaramaiahhimself will reveal the decision taken on the leadership issue, his deputyD K Shivakumarsaid on Tuesday. Experience a more refined e-paper today “A decision has been taken by the CM, the high command and me. When the time comes, there will be clarity. The CM himself will inform the people of the state,” Shivakumar said, virtually lobbing the ball into Siddaramaiah’s court. Shivakumar, who is also the Karnataka Congress president, was reacting to Social Welfare Minister H C Mahadevappa’s statement. On Monday, the minister said that none can force the Congress high command to intervene in the dispute over leadership between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar. “Will the tail wag the dog?” Mahadevappa said. “Mahadevappa is a big man. Now, he’s also a part of the high command. I don’t want to talk about it. The party will decide about this,” Shivakumar said. Foreign tour: Minister K Venkateshpulls out Animal Husbandry Minister K Venkatesh said Tuesday that he was not travelling overseas with other Congress lawmakers. Over 20 lawmakers, most of them Siddaramaiah loyalists, are embarking on a trip to Australia and New Zealand. “Initially, I was invited. I said I’d come if I could. Now, I’m not going. The others are going with their own money,” Venkatesh said. The lawmakers’ trip has nothing to do with the leadership tussle between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar, Venkatesh said. Shivakumar said he had no idea about the trip. “Are they going by themselves? Are they being sponsored? As party president, I don’t know about this,” he said. Playing down the foreign trip, IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge pointed out that lawmakers travelled last year, too. “Do they need permission for a private trip?”

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Latestly

Feb 17, 2026, 02:37 PM

T20 World Cup 2026: Australia Eliminated as Group Stage Reaches Decisive Turning Point

T20 World Cup 2026 Points Table and Team Standings:The group stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has reached a decisive turning point today, Tuesday, 17 February. With several high-stakes matches concluding across India and Sri Lanka, seven of the eight spots for the second round have now been finalised. In the day's major headline, Australia have been officially knocked out of the tournament. Their elimination was confirmed following a "No Result" in Kandy, marking the first time the 2021 champions have failed to progress past the first round since 2009. Meanwhile, you can check the updated ICC T20 World Cup 2026 points table below.ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Full Schedule, Free PDF Download Online. The tournament features 20 teams divided into four groups of five. With only the top two teams from each group progressing to the Super 8 stage, Net Run-Rate (NRR) is expected to play a decisive role in the final team standings.Where to Watch ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Live Streaming Online and on TV. PosTeamPldWLPtsNRRStatus PosTeamPldWLNRPtsNRRStatus PosTeamPldWLPtsNRRStatus PosTeamPldWLPtsNRRStatus Net Run-Rate is the primary tie-breaker in ICC tournaments. It is calculated by subtracting the average runs per over conceded by a team from the average runs per over scored by that team throughout the tournament. If a team is bowled out before their full quota of overs, the calculation still uses the full 20 overs (or the scheduled match length). This ensures that teams are rewarded for finishing games quickly and penalised for heavy defeats. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 07, 2026 03:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our websitelatestly.com).

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The Indian Express

Feb 17, 2026, 02:32 PM

Himachal Pradesh Assembly Sees Heated Debate Over Revenue Deficit Grant Support

On the second day of the Budget Session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly on Tuesday, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri and Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur sparred over the issue of Revenue Deficit Grant (RDG) and the Centre’s fiscal support to the hill state. Participating in a discussion under Rule 102, Agnihotri, carrying a copy of the Constitution, cited Article 275(1), which provides for special grants to states facing financial stress and struggling to overcome fiscal liabilities. “The provision justified Himachal Pradesh’s demand for the continued RDG support,” he said. “Whenever we secured grants from Union ministers for Himachal, they told us that ‘your local BJP leaders will not be happy with it’,” Agnihotri said as Opposition BJP MLAs protested his remarks. Agnihotri further said the state government was fully aware that only the Prime Minister could intervene in the RDG issue. “We urge Prime Minister Narendra Modi to step in. Today, the state’s income is around Rs 18,000 crore, while our liabilities stand at nearly Rs 37,000 crore. RDG is not merely a grant; it is the right of Himachal,” the Deputy CM said. Agnihotri argued, “Himachal Pradesh cannot be equated with 16 other states, including Uttarakhand and Assam. Our circumstances are completely different.” Taking a direct swipe at the Opposition, the Deputy CM questioned the LoP’s silence: “Why are you not outraged when the Centre is going to snatch nearly Rs 55,000 crore that rightfully belongs to Himachal Pradesh?” Agnihotri further said the Union government’s fiscal decisions were adversely impacting the state. “The withdrawal of GST compensation is an attempt to strangulate Himachal Pradesh. Our GST compensation is already very low. Moreover, the recent India-US trade deal will negatively impact our apple economy,” he said. Countering Agnihotri’s claims, Thakur questioned the Congress government’s stand: “Why are you silent on Karnataka’s response, which advocated discontinuation of RDG?” To this, Agnihotri said, “Karnataka’s position stemmed from its minimal dependence on the grant. Karnataka is a large state and was receiving barely one per cent of RDG. That is why it was not affected by the proposed withdrawal.” Other BJP MLAs also joined the debate, asserting that RDG was conceived as a temporary fiscal support mechanism and not a permanent entitlement, further intensifying the political exchange in the House. BJP MLAs said, “The Congress also has a Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, who roamed around the country carrying copies of the Constitution of India. Sadly, without reading it.” Later, talking to the media, Jai Ram said the incumbent government has loans worth Rs 45,000 crore in just three years. The LoP said during his government’s tenure, the loan payout ratio was 95 per cent, while in the first two years it was 130 per cent, despite facing the difficult Covid-19 pandemic. Jai Ram said, “A government that failed to even provide tarpaulins to disaster-affected people could not imagine the horrific situation that arose during a pandemic like Covid-19. Instead of framing new welfare schemes for the people of the state, the Congress government focused on withdrawing them.” Thakur accused the government of harassing the state’s 7.5 million residents at multiple levels. “The government has failed to provide even basic medical treatment to patients. It has also been unable to disburse Sahara pensions to completely destitute individuals,” he added. He pointed out that for the past three years, claims were being made that Himachal Pradesh would become self-reliant by 2027 and the most prosperous state by 2032. “Then one fine day, they say they will not even release funds for the Himcare and Shagun schemes. After being in power for three years, are they still unaware of the state’s financial condition?” the LoP questioned. Thakur said, “The state’s welfare cannot be ensured by running the government in such a manner. He said the chief minister should give up petty politics and work like a true leader for the development of the state.”

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News18✓

Feb 17, 2026, 02:32 PM

India and France Forge Special Global Strategic Partnership: A New Era in International Relations

In the intricate world of international relations, words are rarely “just words". When French President Emmanuel Macron met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai on Tuesday, they didn’t just discuss trade; they elevated the relationship to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership". For the uninitiated, this might sound like typical diplomatic fluff, but in the hierarchy of global ties, these labels carry significant weight, defining everything from military obligations to economic priorities. To understand India’s relationship with France, one must first understand what India is not. Unlike the United Kingdom or Japan, India is not an “ally" of any Western power. Ally: This is the “marriage" of diplomacy. It is usually codified by a formal treaty (like NATO’s Article 5) that includes a mutual defence clause. If one ally is attacked, the others are legally bound to join the fight. India has historically avoided this label to preserve its strategic autonomy, ensuring it is never dragged into someone else’s war. Partner: This is a more casual “friendship". It implies cooperation on specific issues—like trade or climate change—but without any deep long-term commitments or security guarantees. Strategic Partner: This is the middle ground, and it is where India excels. A strategic partnership implies a long-term, multi-dimensional relationship that covers “high-stakes" areas like defence, space, and nuclear energy. It suggests that both nations view each other as vital to their respective national security interests, yet they remain sovereign actors with no binding military obligations. India’s tie with France is unique because it was India’s first-ever strategic partnership, signed in 1998. While other nations often lecture New Delhi during times of crisis, Paris has consistently followed a policy of non-interference. Whether it was the 1998 nuclear tests or more recent geopolitical shifts, France has positioned itself as India’s “reliable" European pillar. The addition of the word “special" during Macron’s visit signals an “acceleration" of ties. In diplomatic nomenclature, “special" often indicates a relationship that has moved beyond mere buyer-seller transactions (like purchasing Rafale jets) into deep co-development. This includes joint ventures like the Tata-Airbus H125 helicopter assembly line in Karnataka—the first of its kind in India’s private sector. For a country like India, which values its independent foreign policy, these labels are tools of “multi-alignment". By calling France a “Special Global Strategic Partner", India can: Signify Deep Trust: It tells the world that France is a primary source for high-end technology and sensitive intelligence. Avoid Entrapment: It maintains the “strategic" label to avoid the “ally" label, ensuring India isn’t obligated to join European conflicts (like the war in Ukraine) unless it chooses to. Signal Global Ambition: The word “global" in the new 2026 label suggests that the partnership is no longer just about the Indian Ocean but about shaping rules for the entire planet on issues like AI governance and space ethics. As Macron joins the AI Impact Summit this week, the “strategic" label will be the engine driving the discussions. In the world of diplomacy, a “partner" might share a coffee, but a “strategic partner" shares the blueprints for the future.

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News18✓

Feb 17, 2026, 02:32 PM

US-Iran Nuclear Talks: Second Round Concludes with Agreement on Guiding Principles

Iran on Tuesday described the second round of nuclear talks with the United States as “constructive," saying both sides had agreed on “set of guiding principles" for a potential agreement. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called the latest round of talks as “more constructive" than the previous round earlier in February. “Ultimately, we were able to reach broad agreement on a set of guiding principles, based on which we will move forward and begin working on the text of a potential agreement," Araghchi told Iranian state media. Talks between the US and Iranian delegations in Geneva concluded on Tuesday. Araghchi told state television that the session lasted nearly three hours, and no date has yet been set for a third round of discussions. “It was agreed that both sides would work further on draft texts for a potential agreement, after which the drafts would be exchanged and a date for a third round would be set," he added. ALSO READ: Tehran Fires Live Missiles Into Strait Of Hormuz Amid Nuclear Talks With US In Geneva This round follows the first talks held earlier in February, after previous negotiations collapsed during last year’s Iran-Israel war. The discussions come amid heightened regional tensions, including the US deployment of an aircraft carrier group to the Gulf after Iran’s deadly crackdown on anti-government protests last month. The protests had been triggered by worsening economic conditions. One of the main sticking points remains Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium, which reached 60 percent purity before the conflict. Washington has repeatedly called for zero enrichment, while also seeking to address Iran’s ballistic missile programme and its support for regional militant groups–issues strongly emphasised by Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

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The Indian Express

Feb 17, 2026, 02:28 PM

Karnataka Congress Flags Lapses in Electoral Roll Revision Ahead of GBA Elections

After faulting the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the revision of electoral rolls, the Karnataka Congress Tuesday flagged alleged lapses in the revision carried out by the State Election Commission ahead of Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) elections. Deputy Chief Minister and Congress president D K Shivakumar, along with legislators representing Bengaluru , met the State Election Commissioner to seek the suspension of the Booth Level Officers responsible for the lapses. They said these were observed during the voter list revision carried out in the GBA limits for polls to five corporations under it. The draft voter list for the GBA polls was published on January 19 this year. A complaint filed by the party alleged “large-scale deletion of voters and assignment of members of the same family to different polling stations” in the GBA limits. “It has come to my notice through multiple representations from party workers, booth-level agents, and concerned citizens that a significant number of genuine voters have been removed from the rolls without due notice or verification. In many instances, members of the same family residing at a single address have been assigned to different polling stations or even different parts within the constituency, causing confusion, inconvenience and potential disenfranchisement. Such irregularities raise grave concerns about the integrity, transparency and fairness of the electoral process,” Shivakumar said in the complaint. Among the demands by the party was a comprehensive audit of recent deletions in the electoral rolls across affected constituencies in Greater Bangalore Area, restoration of all eligible voters who have been wrongly deleted after due verification, Immediate corrective steps to ensure that members of the same household are not arbitrarily distributed across different polling booths, and to provide an opportunity for political parties to review and verify the revised rolls before final publication. Addressing reporters, Shivakumar said that the Karnataka Congress delegation highlighted the various lapses observed during the revision of voter rolls. “There are Booth Level Officers (BLOs) who have divided votes from one house in two separate booths. In some places, minority voters were removed. Backward class voters were removed. There are instances where residents of a single house have voting rights in multiple booths. We have submitted the records. We requested him (State Election Commissioner) to seek a report, re-verify and suspend BLOs responsible for it,” he said. Highlighting the alleged irregularities during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) conducted by ECI, he said that the provisions for revising electoral rolls were being misused. “Elections are being held for GBA, zilla panchayats and taluk panchayats. So, a clean list (of voters) should be prepared,” he said. According to Congress sources, while the average number of voters per booth was 800-1,200, the SEC has mandated having 1,500 voters per booth. This is the main reason for the division of voters, according to the Congress. The delegation also flagged ‘mischief by BLOs’ looking to tamper with the voter roll revision process, the source added. Karnataka, it can be recalled, has been at the centre of allegations regarding voter list manipulation. The ‘vote chori’ campaign launched by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was based on the findings of the Bangalore Central Lok Sabha constituency, in which large-scale tampering was allegedly observed.

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Siasat News✓

Feb 17, 2026, 02:25 PM

Gujarat's Final Electoral Rolls Published After Special Intensive Revision Exercise

Ahmedabad:The total number of voters in Gujarat now stands at 4.40 crore as per the final electoral rolls published on Tuesday, February 17, by the Election Commission (EC) following the nearly three-and-a-half months of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, officials said. The final electoral rolls contain the names of 4,40,30,725 voters, an addition of 5.60 lakh names after the publication of the draft electoral rolls on December 19 last year, the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) said. In the draft electoral rolls, the names of nearly 74 lakh voters were dropped, pegging the total count of electors at 4.34 crore as against the 5.08 crore earlier. So, at 4.40 crore, there has been an addition of 5.60 lakh voters in the final electoral rolls, it added. The objections and claims regarding the inclusion or exclusion of one’s name in the voters’ list were submitted between December 19, 2025 and January 30, 2026. Thereafter, the election officials verified the objections and disposed of them by February 10. Chief Electoral Officer Hareet Shukla said that all the citizens ofGujaratdeserve gratitude and congratulations for their unprecedented cooperation in this campaign. The work was completed within the stipulated time through the active participation of 34 district election officers, 182 voter registration officers, 855 assistant voter registration officers, 50,963 BLOs (booth level officers) and a large number of volunteers, the release said. Since the announcement of SIR, the work of distributing the enumeration forms to 5.08 crore voters across the state and its digitisation was done in a mission mode, with meetings organised between the BLOs and booth-level agents (BLAs) of political parties to verify the forms not returned due to various reasons, it said. At the end of such meetings carried out in all the districts, the list of voters whose forms were not returned in each assembly constituency was published on the website of the District Election Officer and the CEO. The draft electoral rolls published by the EC on December 19 pegged the total count of electors at 4.34 crore as against the 5.08 crore earlier. It was challenged in theGujarat High Courtby two Congress leaders, who sought directions to ensure strict compliance with the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, during the SIR process. The petitioners alleged that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers filed objections in bulk in Form-7 without documentary evidence and not in the manner prescribed under the Rules. They alleged that names were deleted without serving notice or allowing affected voters to be heard.

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News18✓

Feb 17, 2026, 01:52 PM

India's Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla Attends Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman's Swearing-in Ceremony

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla represented India at the swearing-in ceremony of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, where he handed over an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an official visit to India. Birla attended the ceremony in Dhaka as the special envoy of the Government of India and conveyed Modi’s greetings and best wishes to Rahman on assuming office. During their meeting, Birla reiterated that India stands ready to support Bangladesh’s efforts to build a democratic, progressive and inclusive nation. The Lok Sabha Speaker also handed over a formal letter from Modi inviting Rahman to visit India at a mutually convenient time. India and Bangladesh share close ties rooted in history, culture and extensive people-to-people contacts. On the sidelines of the ceremony, Birla also met several leaders, including the President of Maldives and the Prime Minister of Bhutan, where he discussed issues of mutual interest and regional cooperation.

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Financial Express

Feb 17, 2026, 01:47 PM

The Risks of Sudden Employee Exits: A Startup's Existential Crisis

Gen-Z and their work culture have been at the centre of heated debates in recent times. On one side, they are praised for speaking openly about mental health, work-life balance, and fair treatment. On the other, they are criticised for frequent job hopping, sudden exits, and a lack of long-term commitment. This debate resurfaced after Abhinav Dobrial, founder of Lean Protocol, shared on LinkedIn from his own startup journey. What happened, according to him, was not just an employee leaving but a breakdown of trust that cost the company dearly. Dobrial wrote that his first full-time hire was for the founder’s office, a role that sits very close to the heart of any startup. It was a position built on trust, access, and deep involvement in decision-making. “She had access to my months of thinking and the whole strategy I honed with the help of my founder friends,” he wrote. The employee was given access to sensitive data, pitch decks, launch plans, and internal structures. Over time, Dobrial says he mentored her, took her to investor meetings, and tried to be an empathetic and supportive manager. For him, this was not just a hire but it was a partnership in building the company. Things changed suddenly, and at the worst possible moment. A week before Lean Protocol’s first major launch, the employee went completely silent.“No calls. No replies. Four days of complete unresponsiveness.” The founder says he kept trying to reach her, worried something might be wrong. The silence continued, raising anxiety inside a company already under pressure ahead of launch. After four days, a message finally arrived. “Due to unforeseen circumstances, I won’t be able to continue. I can’t explain this over call or text.” Dobrial says he tried reaching out again, not to argue, but to understand if there was something he could do to help. There was no response. The timing made the situation even harder. With no handover, no explanation, and no transition, the company’s launch plans collapsed. “Our entire launch got cancelled, and the company is paying the price,” he wrote. What hurt more was what Dobrial found out later. Through the employee’s former colleagues, he learned that she had already joined another company. She had accepted a role elsewhere without informing him, even though she had been offered a 30% salary hike over her previous job, one she had joined just eight months earlier. Dobrial clarified that he chose not to reveal her identity. “I am not revealing her identity as I do not intend to shame or hurt her career.” But his concern went beyond personal disappointment. The bigger worry, he wrote, was the risk to the company itself.As a founder’s office hire, the employee had deep knowledge of Lean Protocol’s strategy, launch plans, and internal thinking. With her LinkedIn not yet updated, Dobrial said there was a strong chance she had joined a competitor in the same weight-loss space. “I am not sure at the moment, as she hasn’t updated her LinkedIn but there are high chances of her joining a competitor in the same weight loss space with all Lean Protocol’s insiders.” For a young startup, this kind of exit can feel existential. Rather than ending his post in anger, Dobrial asked a question that many founders quietly struggle with. “How do you deal with a situation when someone suddenly leaves like this?”

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The Free Press Journal

Feb 17, 2026, 01:44 PM

Union Minister Launches AI-Based Farmers' Platform 'Bharat-VISTAAR', Criticizes Rahul Gandhi

Jaipur:Union Minister for Agriculture Shivraj Singh launched the AI-based farmers' platform ‘Bharat-VISTAAR’ in Jaipur on Tuesday. This platform will provide farmers with information on weather, market prices, pests and diseases, soil, crop advice, and government schemes all in one place through phone calls, chatbots, and later through an app. Addressing the nationwide launching ceremony, Shivraj Singh, without naming, took a jibe at leader of oppression Rahul Gandhi and said, “ One leader is questioning the US trade deal. He is a part-time politician and a full-time drama king. He has neither understanding of trade nor tradition. He hasn't seen a field, a crop, or dirt, but he is finding fault with the trade deal." Let us know! 👂What type of content would you like to see from us this year? Countering the agriculture policies of the Congress regime, Shivraj Singh asked Rahul Gandhi why the Congress refused to accept the Swaminathan Commission report, which called for a minimum support price based on farmers' input costs. Why did the Congress government refuse to consider input costs as the basis for implementing MSP? “In 2009-10, the Congress government imported sugar from abroad at ₹36 per kg and then exported the same sugar at ₹12.50 per kg. Who benefited from this,” asked Shivraj. The union minister accused Congress of destroying India's self-sufficiency in edible oils by putting edible oils under the Open General License. Responding to the allegations of putting farmers' interests at stake in the US trade deal, Shivraj said that the interests of Indian farmers have been fully considered in the trade deal with America. “The country is not yet self-sufficient in pulses. Apples currently come from Turkey and Iran. Turkey opposed India in Operation Sindoor, so what's the problem if apples come from America now? This import won't affect the apple production in the country,” said the union minister. Talking about the Bharat-VISTAAR, he said that in the future, farmer IDs will be linked to Bharat Vistar. Farmers are being connected to technology with the aim of ensuring that clerks and officials don't interfere with farmers' access to benefits. Bharat Vistar is the call for a new revolution. Also Watch: Bharat-VISTAAR is the Government of India’s farmer-centric, AI-powered digital public infrastructure, which will deliver reliable information to farmers by connecting various government and scientific sources. On this platform, farmers will be able to view information and status related to weather, market prices, pests and diseases, soil health, crop management, and at least 10 major central government schemes. Bharat-VISTAAR has been designed as a voice first AI so that even a farmer with a simple feature phone can benefit from it just by making a call. For this, telephonic helpline number 155261 has been linked to the platform, along with facilities like voice input-output, a website, and a mobile site chatbot, and an Android app will also be released. For the Phase 1 launch, Bharat-VISTAAR has integrated weather information from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), market prices from AgMarkNet, pest and disease management through the National Pest Surveillance System (NPSS), Agri-Stack data, and information on 10 central government schemes. Along with this, facilities to view scheme details, application status, benefit tracking, and complaint registration and resolution status have also been integrated so that farmers do not have to repeatedly visit offices or different portals.

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First Post

Feb 17, 2026, 01:20 PM

India and France Strengthen Strategic Partnership with Helicopter Assembly Line Inauguration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described France as a “special partner” while inaugurating the assembly line of H-125 helicopters alongside French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai. Speaking at a joint press conference, Modi highlighted that India and France will produce the H-125 helicopter in India, capable of flying at the heights of Mount Everest. He said the two nations have agreed to elevate their relationship to a special global strategic partnership, calling it a “force for global stability amid uncertainty.” The PM also emphasised that India and France are expanding cooperation in critical minerals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. He announced the launch of several joint initiatives, including the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, the Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology, and the National Centre of Alliance for Skilling in Aeronautics. The assembly line for H-125 helicopters, he said, brings together France’s technological expertise and India’s scale, with both nations working together on trusted technologies through platforms such as the International Solar Alliance and the India-Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor. #WATCH| Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Today we are strengthening our cooperation in critical minerals, biotechnology, and advanced materials. We are launching the Indo-French Centre for AI in Health, the Indo-French Centre for Digital Science and Technology, and…pic.twitter.com/xVhB0vjrDl President Macron described the India–France relationship as unique, built on trust, openness, and ambition. He said the partnership had been elevated to a new status and expressed confidence in its future, highlighting collaboration over the past eight years in areas including the Indo-Pacific, artificial intelligence, and clean energy. Macron arrived in Mumbai late Monday and was received by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. After engagements in Mumbai, the leaders are scheduled to travel to New Delhi to attend the India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam. Prime Minister Modi met French President Macron in Mumbai, sharing a warm welcome ahead of delegation-level talks. The leaders aim to discuss key areas of mutual interest and strengthen Indo-French relations during Macron's three-day official visit. Macron was received by Maharashtra's Governor and Chief Minister upon arrival. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.

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Feb 17, 2026, 01:20 PM

US-Led Peace Talks Between Ukraine and Russia Reach Impasse as Key Issues Remain Unresolved

Kyiv and Moscow remain far apart on key issues as their envoys meet in Geneva for a third round of US-led peace talks. DW correspondents Nick Connolly and Juri Rescheto gauge the mood within Ukraine and Russia.

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Financial Express

Feb 17, 2026, 01:16 PM

Tarique Rahman Becomes Bangladesh's 11th Prime Minister, Marking Historic Firsts

Bangladesh Nationalist Party ( BNP ) supremo Tarique Rahman took oath as Bangladesh’s 11th Prime Minister on Tuesday. With this, Rehman, son of late Bangladeshi PM Khaleda Zia and and late President Ziaur Rahman, marks the end of the 18-month rule of the interim government which took charge after the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina regime in August 2024. Here are a list of historic firsts that will underline Rehman’s five-year-long tenure. Rahman spent nearly 17 years in self‑imposed exile in London before returning to Bangladesh in late 2025, following his mother’s death and the collapse of the previous government’s legal barriers. Notably, no major Bangladeshi political leader in modern times has returned from prolonged exile to assume power in the country’s highest executive office. Rahman would also lead the first BNP‑led government in about two decades, marking the party’s return to power after a long period in opposition. The BNP once dominated Bangladeshi politics under earlier leadership but Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League held power for nearly 20 years. Rahman has become the first male prime minister to assume power in 35 years. Over the past three decades, the premiership has been held almost exclusively by women- his mother Khaleda Zia and then Sheikh Hasina- making this a significant breakthrough in the country’s executive leadership. Rahman would extend Bangladesh’s pattern of political dynasties, becoming one of the few leaders to follow directly from two influential political family figures, his parents. However, his path has been notably atypical: he has never served as prime minister before and his return follows the overturning of past legal convictions that had kept him abroad. In 2016, Bangladesh’s High Court had sentenced him to seven years in prison for money laundering, Al Jazeera reported.

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The Indian Express

Feb 17, 2026, 01:06 PM

Kerala High Court Halts 'Nava Keralam' Programme, Citing Financial Rule Violations

In a setback for the Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led government, the Kerala High Court Tuesday directed the state government to stop the conduct of its citizen response initiative ‘Nava Keralam programme’ . The Division Bench of Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar VM acted on public interest litigations filed by KSU, the student wing of the Congress. The state government had launched the programme early last month to gather people’s feedback on development and welfare schemes, understand local needs, and collect public opinion. According to the state government, the programme is an essential welfare study intended to augment and facilitate development measures already undertaken. The petitioners alleged that the programme, for which the government had set apart Rs 20 crore, was a political campaign tailored to help the ruling party ahead of the 2026 Legislative Assembly elections. They said the scheme was being implemented via a portal created for disaster management and amounted to misuse of state machinery for political purposes. The court in its order said “the expenditure incurred in implementation of such [a] programme is in violation of the rules of business. The said amount neither could have been allocated nor utilised under the special PR campaign head being not permitted under the rules of business”. The court also took note of a letter issued by CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan last year asking party cadres to register as volunteers for the programme and coordinate its implementation, “raising concerns that the programme was being used as a political campaign for the ruling party.” “We are not questioning the wisdom of the Cabinet to undertake such study, but for executing and implementing such study, funds de hors the financial rules are utilised and such irregularities if are brought on record, the court has a duty to declare such utilisation of funds as illegal,” the court said.

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Newsbytes✓

Feb 17, 2026, 01:06 PM

Macron-Modi Summit Yields Over 20 Agreements Across Sectors

French PresidentEmmanuel Macronis on a three-day visit to India for the AI Summit 2026 in New Delhi.During his visit, he held high-level talks with Indian leaders, resulting in over 20 agreements across various sectors, including defense, technology cooperation, trade, and health.Prime MinisterNarendra Modiand President Macron jointly announced these agreements after extensive bilateral discussions in Mumbai,India Todayreported.

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News18✓

Feb 17, 2026, 01:04 PM

India's AI Impact Summit: A New Era of Strategic Autonomy and Global Leadership

The India AI Impact Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam has sparked a flurry of international commentary, with global media houses viewing the event not just as a tech conference but as a geopolitical statement. As New Delhi plays host to the world’s AI luminaries—including Sam Altman, Sundar Pichai, and Dario Amodei—the narrative in the Western press has shifted from curiosity to a serious evaluation of India as a formidable “Fourth Pole" in the global technology race. Politico has led the charge in framing the summit as India’s formal entry into a space traditionally dominated by the United States and China. According to their analysis, India is no longer content being a “back-office" for Silicon Valley. By hosting the first major AI summit in the Global South, New Delhi is actively seeking to disrupt the bilateral tug-of-war between Washington’s “innovation-first" deregulation and Beijing’s “governance-heavy" surveillance models. Politico suggests that India’s vast engineering talent and its unapologetic pursuit of “strategic autonomy" are positioning it to act as a pivot point that could prevent a binary split in the global AI ecosystem. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has identified a more specific and practical contribution: India’s “frugal AI" strategy. While American giants like Microsoft and Amazon are pouring hundreds of billions into massive, energy-hungry data centres, India is promoting a “blueprint for the developing world" that focuses on cost-efficiency and local relevance. The WSJ highlights projects like Adalat AI, which automates witness depositions in Indian courts for a fraction of the cost of Western legal software, and Bhashini, the AI translation tool breaking literacy barriers. This approach—developing “compact" models that run on limited compute—is seen by the WSJ as a viable path for middle-income nations that cannot match the venture capital firepower of the US but need AI to solve urgent social challenges in healthcare and agriculture. Bloomberg has focused on India’s role as a “convener", noting that the summit is designed to clear a path for India to lead in the development of frontier models. By bringing together over 20 heads of state, including President Emmanuel Macron and President Lula da Silva, alongside Big Tech CEOs, India is attempting to shift the gravity of AI governance. Bloomberg reports that global firms are taking notice; Anthropic and OpenAI are reportedly setting up direct operations in India to court a developer pool that is already the world’s third-largest. The narrative here is one of “market penetration"—where India’s biometric and payment “stacks" serve as the scaffolding for the next generation of AI-driven public services. Other international observers, including analysts at CSIS and Responsible Statecraft, see the summit as a laboratory for “middle power statecraft". The consensus is that India is moving away from the old concept of self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) as isolation. Instead, the “India Way" in AI is about building strategic interdependence. By contributing to open-source architectures and setting interoperable standards, India ensures that the global AI engine simply cannot run without an “Indian key".

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NorthEast Now

Feb 17, 2026, 01:01 PM

Kamal Haasan: From Cinema to Politics - A Journey of Reinvention and Reform

Few Indian actors have navigated reinvention as persistently as Kamal Haasan. A child artiste who went on to become one of Indian cinema’s most decorated performers, Haasan’s journey from auteur-actor to political leader reflects both ideological conviction and personal evolution. His transition into politics was not abrupt; it was an extension of decades of public commentary on governance, corruption, federalism and rationalist thought.Haasan’s cinematic career, spanning over six decades, redefined performance grammar in Tamil cinema. From experimental roles inNayakanandIndianto mainstream entertainers, he built a reputation for intellectual engagement and social critique through storytelling. Over time, his public speeches and interviews increasingly addressed systemic corruption, administrative inefficiency and civic responsibility. By the mid-2010s, it was evident that his engagement with politics had moved beyond commentary.In February 2018, Haasan formally launched his political party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), positioning it as a centrist alternative in Tamil Nadu’s Dravidian political landscape. The party name, translating roughly to “People’s Justice Centre,” signalled its stated focus on governance reform, anti-corruption measures, decentralisation and urban civic transformation. Unlike legacy Dravidian parties rooted in linguistic identity movements, MNM attempted to frame itself around administrative competence, transparency and technocratic policy thinking.Haasan’s entry disrupted a political ecosystem long dominated by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). However, translating celebrity capital into electoral arithmetic proved complex. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls, MNM struggled to secure significant seat victories, though it did register measurable urban vote shares, particularly in Chennai and Coimbatore. The results suggested that while Haasan commanded visibility and intellectual appeal, grassroots cadre-building and booth-level mobilisation required time.Organisational consolidation has since been a priority. MNM invested in expanding district units, policy cells and digital outreach, aiming to cultivate a governance-first brand rather than personality-driven populism. Haasan consistently articulated themes of fiscal accountability, data-driven policymaking and citizen participation rarely adopting the rhetorical style typical of Tamil Nadu’s traditional mass politics.A significant recent development for MNM has been the formal allotment of its party symbol by the Election Commission. The party has been assigned the “Battery Torchlight” (Torch) symbol an emblem intended to represent vigilance, transparency and illumination in governance. For a relatively young political formation, securing a recognisable and consistent electoral symbol is strategically important: in India’s ballot system, symbols function as cognitive identifiers, especially in rural and semi-literate constituencies. The torch metaphor aligns with Haasan’s repeated invocation of “lighting the path” toward cleaner politics and administrative reform.Haasan’s political arc remains a work in progress. Unlike cinematic narratives with defined climaxes, electoral politics demands endurance, coalition-building and institutional patience. Yet his transition underscores a broader phenomenon in Indian democracy: the permeability between cultural capital and political aspiration. Whether MNM evolves into a decisive third force in Tamil Nadu or influences governance through issue-based alliances, Haasan’s move from performance to policy marks one of the most intellectually framed celebrity entries into Indian politics in recent decades.From national award-winning actor to founder of a reform-oriented political platform, Kamal Haasan’s journey reflects ambition not merely for office, but for structural change an experiment still unfolding under the glare of public scrutinyRelated

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News18✓

Feb 17, 2026, 12:53 PM

NCP Leaders Demand CBI Probe into Plane Crash that Killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar

Senior leaders of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday to demand a CBI investigation into the January 28 plane crash that killed Ajit Pawar. The crash occurred in Baramati, Pune district, when a Learjet 45 aircraft carrying Ajit Pawar and four others went down while attempting to land. All five on board, including then Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, died in the accident. Questions about the crash had earlier been raised by Rohit Pawar, Ajit Pawar’s nephew and NCP (SP) MLA. On Tuesday, Sunetra Pawar joined in demanding a central investigation, submitting a representation to Chief Minister Fadnavis calling for a CBI probe into her husband’s death. ALSO READ: Ajit Pawar Air Crash: Recovered Black Box May Be Sent Abroad For Analysis, Says Govt Source Rohit Pawar has repeatedly questioned the slow pace of the investigation, alleging possible negligence and regulatory failures by Delhi-based VSR Ventures, the operator of the aircraft. He has also raised concerns about operational and crew irregularities and hinted at possible sabotage. Earlier today, on X, he said, “20 days have passed since the unfortunate accident yet the investigation hasn’t gained any momentum. Is the delay solely to allow the VSR company to destroy evidence or does the company have someone’s protection?" “The information emerging today about the black box being damaged makes it seem like the possibility I predicted five days ago is turning out to be true. Be that as it may, we will not rest until we get answers whether it was an accident or a murder in the case of dada!" he noted. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has begun a special audit of VSR Ventures and is conducting a two-phase review of all non-scheduled aircraft operators following the crash. However, no preliminary report has been released yet. (With inputs from agencies)

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News18✓

Feb 17, 2026, 12:51 PM

Global Stability, Plane Crash Probe, and More: Top Stories from Around the World

In today’s evening digest, News18 brings you the latest updates Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron ahead of the AI Impact Summit, the demand for a CBI probe into the Ajit Pawar plane crash, and other top stories. ‘Force For Global Stability’: PM Modi Meets Macron, Announces Strategic Partnership With France Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described India-France ties as “special" and a force for global stability amid global uncertainty after he held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Maharashtra’s Lok Bhavan. READ MORE Sunetra Pawar Meets Fadnavis, Demands CBI Probe Into Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Senior leaders of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday to demand a CBI investigation into the January 28 plane crash that killed Ajit Pawar. READ MORE ‘You Won’t Be Able To Eliminate Iran’: Khamenei’s Challenge To Trump Amid High Tensions Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Tuesday challenged US President Donald Trump to destroy Iran and said the ‘strongest military force in the world’ could be struck “so hard that it cannot get up again". This comes as the US and Iran started their indirect talks in Geneva over the nuclear dispute. READ MORE AI Summit Snarl: Ashwini Vaishnaw Apologises, Says Massive Youth Turnout Behind Day-One Disruptions Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw issued a formal apology on Tuesday for the logistical hurdles and overcrowding that marred the opening day of the India AI Impact Summit. Speaking at a press conference at New Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam, the minister attributed the disruptions to a “phenomenal" and unprecedented surge in attendance, which saw more than 70,000 people arrive at the venue on the first day alone. READ MORE Australia Knocked Out Of 2026 T20 World Cup After Zimbabwe-Ireland Washout 2021 champions Australia were knocked out of the 2026 T20 World Cup after Tuesday’s match between Ireland and Zimbabwe was abandoned due to rain. The wash-out took Zimbabwe’s points in the group stage to five — a target which both Australia and Ireland can mathematically not reach. The Sikandar Raza-led African side, thus, became the seventh team to qualify for the Super Eights. READ MORE Salim Khan’s Condition ‘Serious’, Family ‘Concerned’ Over His Health: Report Salim Khan Health Condition: Hours after Salman Khan’s father, Salim Khan, was hospitalised, it has now been reported that the veteran screenwriter is ‘serious’. If a report by Bollywood Hungama is to be believed, Salman has dropped all his current commitments to be by his father’s side. Reportedly, Salim Saab’s condition is ‘serious’ and therefore, the family is concerned about him. READ MORE

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Newsbytes✓

Feb 17, 2026, 12:50 PM

India and France Strengthen Ties with Special Global Strategic Partnership

Prime MinisterNarendra Modiand French PresidentEmmanuel Macronhave elevated their countries' ties to a "Special Global Strategic Partnership."The announcement was made during a joint press conference in Mumbai, where PM Modi emphasized the depth and significance of their relationship."The friendship between India and France has no boundaries," he said, adding that the partnership could "reach from deep oceans to the tallest mountains."

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NorthEast Now

Feb 17, 2026, 12:35 PM

Bangladesh's Tarique Rahman Sworn In As Prime Minister Amid Political Shift

Guwahati:Bangladesh Nationalist Party(BNP) leaderTarique Rahmanwas sworn in as the country’s prime minister on Tuesday, signalling a major political shift in the South Asian nation following his party’s decisive parliamentary election win.Rahman, 60, the son of former Prime MinisterKhaleda Ziaand assassinated President Ziaur Rahman, assumes office amid pressing challenges—political instability, rebuilding investor confidence, and reviving key sectors like the garment industry, which have been disrupted in the wake of the Gen Z-leduprisingthat toppled Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2024.During the transitional period leading up to the elections, an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus oversaw the country.Breaking with tradition, the swearing in ceremony was held outdoors at the South Plaza of theJatiya Sangsad Bhaban, the national parliament, rather than at the presidential residence,Bangabhaban. President Mohammed Shahabuddin administered the oaths to Rahman and his cabinet in the presence of senior political leaders, diplomats, civil and military officials, and representatives from countries including China, India, and Pakistan.The BNP secured a commanding two thirds majority, returning to power after nearly two decades. The Islamist partyJamaat-e-Islami,contesting its first election since a 2013 ban was lifted post-Hasina’s ouster, captured a record 68 seats. Hasina’sAwami Leaguewas barred from contesting after its registration was revoked by the Election Commission. Jamaat and its allies, including the National Citizen Party, led by youth activists who played a key role in the uprising, will serve as the opposition.Rahman’s rise marks the culmination of a long and turbulent political journey. He returned from a 17-year self-imposedexilein London last year, shortly before his mother’s passing. While critics have long cited corruption allegations against him — which he denies, his return invigorated BNP supporters and reshaped the party’s campaign.In his first post-election statement, Rahman called for calm and restraint: “Peace, law and order must be maintained at any cost.” He urged supporters to avoid retaliation, warning: “We will not tolerate any kind of chaos.”Related

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News18✓

Feb 17, 2026, 12:18 PM

India Hints at Early Decision on Restoring Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir

Union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on Tuesday hinted at an early decision on the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stressing that the Centre remains committed to what he called a “sensitive" matter. Arjun Ram Meghwal, who is the minister of state for law and justice, told reporters during his visit to Srinagar that while the issue remains “sensitive", the public should expect a resolution in the near future. “I think you will hear some decision on this very soon," Meghwal said, adding that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had previously provided assurances on the floor of the Lok Sabha that the rightful process for restoration will be followed. “Home Minister has said on the floor of the House that will get it back and there’s a process," he said, stressing that the central government is committed to ensuring that the people of the region receive what is “due to them". Meghwal’s comments prompted a response of cautious optimism from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was present at the same function at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC). He acknowledged the hint of “good news" but said J&K has waited too long. “It has been one and a half years of wait. We hope we do not have to wait much longer," Abdullah said, adding that his government is in constant dialogue with the Centre to ensure the process is completed. While he expressed hope that the wait is nearing its end, he maintained that “no one in Jammu and Kashmir will be satisfied" until the restoration is officially enacted. Jammu and Kashmir lost its special status after the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019. At that time, it was reorganised into two distinct Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Amit Shah had said in February 2021 that this UT status was intended to be temporary. The push for restoration has recently intensified through both legal challenges and public mobilisation. A bench led by former Chief Justice BR Gavai has been hearing petitions seeking a time-bound restoration of statehood, a case in which Omar Abdullah had previously sought to become a party. On the political front, both the Congress and the ruling National Conference (NC) have ramped up efforts to frame the return of statehood as a fundamental constitutional right rather than a concession. The Congress recently launched its ‘Har Ghar Dastak’ campaign to mobilise public support, with Jammu and Kashmir Congress Committee president Tariq Hameed Karra saying the government must honour its parliamentary commitments. “Statehood is not a concession or charity; it is a constitutional right," Karra said, warning that further delays will deepen public mistrust. National Conference MLAs, meanwhile, have also staged protests outside the Jammu and Kashmir assembly, carrying placards demanding the restoration of constitutional guarantees. They said statehood was a promise made to the people and that the time for its fulfilment is now due. (With inputs from Ieshan Wani)

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Feb 17, 2026, 12:15 PM

Spanish Government Orders Investigation into Social Media Platforms Over Child Abuse Material

Prime MinisterPedro Sanchezannounced Tuesday that theSpanishgovernment had ordered prosecutors to investigate social media platforms X, Meta, and TikTok for allegedly spreading AI-generated child sexual abuse material. "These platforms are undermining the mental health, dignity, and rights of our children," Sanchez wrote ‌on X. "The state cannot allow this. The impunity of these ‌giants must end." Sanchez added that his government would ask prosecutors to "investigate the crimes that X, Meta, and TikTok may be committing through the creation and dissemination of child pornography using their AI." Earlier this month, the Spanish premier announced several measures aimed at curbing online abuse and protecting children. One of those measures is a proposed ban on social media platforms for children under the age of 16. Also, in November, Sanchez said that Spain's parliament would investigate Meta for potential privacy violations involving users of its platforms, Facebook and Instagram. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser thatsupports HTML5 video Other European governments have also launched investigations, imposed bans, and demanded safeguards in an increasing effort to curb illegal material worldwide. On Tuesday,Ireland's Data Protection Commission announced it had opened a formal investigation into Grokover its processing of personal data and the platform's potential to generate harmful sexualized images and videos, including those involving children. In February, French police raided the offices of X, amid an expanding investigation and growing scrutiny of the platform by authorities across Europe. European regulatorsare also cracking down on big tech companies for allegedly engaging in abusive practices on online platforms. These practices range from anti-competitive behavior in digital advertising to deliberately designing addictive social media features. Edited by: Roshni Majumdar

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The Free Press Journal

Feb 17, 2026, 12:01 PM

India's Gold Imports Soar Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty

The buying behaviour of customers towards precious metals like gold and silver is changing as geopolitical tensions across the world remain high. Buyers are looking at the yellow metal not just as jewellery but also as a hedge against market fluctuations. The investment demand in precious metals like gold has increased to 45% now from 28% earlier, said Surendra Mehta, Secretary of the India Bullion & Jewellers Association (IBJA), according to a report by CNBC TV18. Mehta said that the sharp rise in gold and silver imports reflects a stark shift in household savings behaviour. Investors are treating these metals as financial assets instead of just jewellery, he was quoted as saying. “People are moving from other asset classes to gold, which is now really called a safe haven asset,” Mehta said. He was speaking after the recently released trade data reported a steep increase in the import of metals like gold and silver. While gold imports in January rose more than four times to over $12 billion, inward shipments of silver surged 127% during the same month to $2 billion. Experts have cited this as the main reason behind the widening of India’s trade deficit in January. The trade deficit during the month increased to a three-month high of $34.68 billion from $23.43 billion last year. However, the surge in gold imports was primarily driven by a rise in prices rather than volume. Mehta said that fresh money is also coming into instruments like gold and silver ETFs, indicating that investors are looking at the metals as investments rather than consumption products. Mehta said that it was not jewellery consumption that is behind the rising demand. “Jewellery sales in the organised and unorganised sectors are down, but investment demand is high,” he is quoted as saying, underlining the change in demand composition. He also indicated that the trend may continue in the coming months owing to the wedding and festival season, and global trade and political uncertainty.

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Economic Times

Feb 17, 2026, 11:57 AM

Civil Rights Leader Jesse Jackson Dies at 84

SynopsisJesse Jackson death: Prominent civil rights leader Jesse Jackson has passed away at 84, his family confirmed Tuesday, marking the close of a decades-long public career dedicated to racial equality and political advocacy.

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The Free Press Journal

Feb 17, 2026, 11:53 AM

West Bengal Chief Minister Accuses Election Commission of Targeting Voters, Undermining Democratic Principles

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Election Commission of India, alleging that the poll body was functioning as a “Tughlaqi Commission” under the influence of a political party. Addressing a press conference in Kolkata, Banerjee claimed that 58 lakh voters’ names in West Bengal had been removed with the help of artificial intelligence, allegedly by women workers linked to the BJP’s IT cell. She further alleged that the Commission was acting at the behest of the Bharatiya Janata Party and defying directives of the Supreme Court. Let us know! 👂What type of content would you like to see from us this year? The Chief Minister said the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process had created widespread anxiety in the state. “In Bengal, 160 people have lost their lives due to SIR anxiety and work-related pressure,” she claimed, accusing the EC of targeting voters and undermining democratic principles. Banerjee alleged that the Commission was deleting names of Bengal’s voters on instructions from the BJP and cited what she described as “logical discrepancies” in the revision process. “The Election Commission is snatching away democratic rights and treating ordinary people like terrorists,” she said. She also warned that if West Bengal government officers were penalised by the EC during the exercise, the state government would “100 per cent protect them.” Banerjee added that any officer demoted by the Commission would be promoted by the state government. Claiming that Bengal was being singled out to “satisfy the BJP,” the Chief Minister said her government would continue to resist any move that, in her view, compromised the democratic rights of citizens.

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The New Indian Express

Feb 17, 2026, 11:52 AM

India, France Strengthen Ties with Special Global Strategic Partnership

NEW DELHI: India and France on Tuesday elevated their bilateral ties to a “Special Global Strategic Partnership,” with Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing the relationship as a “force for global stability” amid rising geopolitical turbulence after the meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Mumbai.

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Financial Express

Feb 17, 2026, 11:45 AM

Gold Prices in India Fall Amid Easing Geopolitical Tensions

On 17 February 2026, the price of 24K gold at ₹153,050 per 10 grams, reflecting a loss of ₹1,900 compared to its previous close. Meanwhile, 22K gold is at ₹140,296 per 10 grams. Gold prices in India are largely influenced by international spot gold rates, US dollar fluctuations, and import duties on Gold among other things. Gold prices in India continue to remain higher than in Dubai. On 17 February 2026 the price of 24K gold in India is at ₹153,050 per 10 grams, while in Dubai it is ₹144,896, reflecting a difference of ₹8,154 or 5.63%. Similarly, 22K and 18K gold prices in India were also about 5.63% costlier compared to the price of gold in Dubai , not accounting for fees, duties, and taxes. Gold prices were trending down amid easing geopolitical tensions and thin holiday trading. Markets in the US were closed on January 16 for Presidents’ Day, while mainland markets in China were closed for the Lunar New Year. Easing geopolitical tensions between the US and Iran also added to the downside in prices of the yellow metal. Additionally, Russia and Ukraine are set to meet for a fresh round of negotiations, which has softened the safe-haven demand for the asset. ALSO READ Silver, Gold ETF prices take a hit: Gold Futures under pressure at Rs 1.55 lakh, while Silver shows steeper fall A steady dollar index also weighed on gold prices, as a firm dollar makes precious metals like gold more expensive for other currency holders, thereby denting demand. Analysts expect gold prices to remain range-bound in the near term amid easing geopolitical tensions. Markets will monitor the minutes from the Fed’s meeting for further guidance on the central bank’s policy stance. However, markets continue to price in two rate cuts by the Fed this year. Geopolitical developments related to the US-Iran and Russia-Ukraine situations remain the centre of attention and will direct the trajectory of gold prices. Retail investors are advised to track not just domestic rates but also international trends before making buying decisions. ALSO READ Silver Rate Today 17th February 2026: Silver is down by 1.24%; check prices in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi, Ahmedabad

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The New Indian Express

Feb 17, 2026, 11:41 AM

Uttar Pradesh Minister Accuses Election Commission of Large-Scale Irregularities in Voter Registration Process

LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Minister Ravindra Jaiswal alleged large-scale irregularities in the special intensive revision process in the state, claiming that nearly one lakh votes were deleted from his assembly segment Varanasi. The Election Commission of India, however, rejected the claim following preliminary verification. Jaiswal made the claim at a press conference in Varanasi on February 12, noting that married women aged between 30 and 40 were registered under their father's names and that some voters were listed multiple times across different booths with identical details. Calling the ongoing SIR a “major irregularity", the minister who represents Varanasi North Assembly segment submitted a memorandum to District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar demanding a comprehensive review of the process. Amid mounting political pressure, UP Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Navdeep Rinwa visited Varanasi and said that the list of allegedly fake or duplicate voters provided by the minister had been examined.

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Times of India

Feb 17, 2026, 11:36 AM

Laura Loomer Defends Erika Kirk Amid Feud with Candace Owens Over Conservative Media Controversy

Laura Loomer publicly defended Erika Kirk in a Valentine’s Day post while sharply criticizing Candace Owens, escalating an ongoing conservative media feud. Owens has questioned details about Erika’s marriage and events before Charlie Kirk’s death, drawing backlash from Loomer, who called the commentary harmful and defamatory. The dispute has intensified online, exposing deep divisions and keeping Erika Kirk at the center of public scrutiny.Conservative media circles were jolted on Valentine’s Day after activist Laura Loomer publicly voiced support for Erika Kirk while escalating her ongoing feud with commentator Candace Owens.The tweet consisted of sympathy, praise and sharp criticism that fueled an argument that has been simmering through podcasts, social media discussion forums, and political commentary platforms.The conflict arises amid prolonged investigation of Erika Kirk after the demise of her husband, Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA. Owens has repeatedly questioned details surrounding the couple’s marriage and events before his death, prompting backlash from Loomer and others who view the commentary as invasive and harmful.Loomer’s latest post framed the controversy as a targeted smear campaign rather than legitimate inquiry.Candace Drops 'SECRET' TPUSA Tape: Erika Kirk Heard Laughing Days After Charlie Kirk’s KillingLaura Loomer backs Erika Kirk as feud with Candace Owens intensifies“Happy Valentine’s Day to @MrsErikaKirk,” Laura Loomer wrote on X. “Just know that not all of us are sociopathic lying a***oles and many of us stand with you, we support you, and we are rooting for your success despite the deliberate effort to smear you by jealous and spiteful women online who wish they had what you had and wish they looked like you,” she added.by Taboolaby TaboolaSponsored LinksSponsored LinksPromoted LinksPromoted LinksYou May LikeEmaar Serenity Hills @Sector 86, New GurugramEmaar IndiaLearn MoreUndoThe message did not mention Owens by name, but its target was widely understood. Loomer has previously urged Erika Kirk to pursue legal action, describing Owens’ commentary as defamatory and “beyond depraved.” In earlier posts, she called for a restraining order and accused Owens of promoting damaging claims.Owens, for her part, has scrutinized Erika’s interview remarks about sending Charlie Kirk to sleep in their daughter’s room before an event and questioned why he was not wearing his wedding ring that night.She has presented these facts as peculiar and this has caused skepticism among her audience that has attracted both appreciation and disapproval.This conflict has become a larger spectacle of the media, the result of rifts at the heart of conservative circles of commentators. The fans of both parties still debate on the internet, transforming individual sorrow, allegiance, and mass media investigations into a political and cultural hotspot.In the case of Erika Kirk, the newfound interest makes sure that the personal tragedy never ceases to be mixed up in the politics of polemic. Loomer and Owens are still in a battle that does not seem to come to an end.

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Economic Times

Feb 17, 2026, 11:32 AM

J&K Statehood Restoration Imminent: Union Minister Hints

SynopsisUnion Minister Arjun Meghwal has indicated that Jammu and Kashmir's statehood will be restored soon. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the statement, expressing hope that the wait will not be prolonged. The Union Home Minister had previously assured the Lok Sabha of this restoration.

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