An encounter erupted between security forces and Naxalites in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district on Thursday. The gunfight began in a southern forest area when a District Reserve Guard team launched an anti-Naxalite operation. Intermittent firing continued at the site, while police said more details were awaited. No casualties were reported.
A public feud involving influencer Orry and Sara Ali Khan’s family has intensified after Orry called her brother Ibrahim Ali Khan “besharam” on a podcast. He also mocked Sara’s film career and blamed Amrita Singh for their fallout. Orry claimed his remarks were jokes, but online backlash and protests continue to grow.
The Supreme Court stayed the UGC’s 2026 equity regulations, citing vagueness and potential misuse. The rules mandate equity bodies in universities but define caste-based discrimination as affecting only SC, ST and OBC groups, excluding general categories. The Court questioned this narrow definition, omission of ragging, and urged expert review.
The Delhi High Court has granted Jr NTR protection against unauthorised use of his name, image, and identity. The court barred the misuse of his name, nicknames, image, or likeness for commercial purposes. Digital platforms must remove infringing content. This safeguards his personality rights under copyright, trademark, and constitutional laws.
The T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up matches start from February 2 in India and Sri Lanka. India will play one warm-up against South Africa, while India A will play two games. Other teams, including associate nations, will also have warm-ups. Italy debuts in the tournament. Sri Lanka and England skip warm-ups.
The Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Sri Lanka got floodlights ahead of the T20 World Cup, becoming the country’s fifth day-night cricket venue. The stadium will host five matches from February 7. Upgrades include LED lighting, improved dressing rooms, VIP boxes, and facilities for officials, broadcasters, and spectators, meeting international standards.
Former Tamil Nadu CM O. Panneerselvam (OPS) said he is willing to rejoin AIADMK under Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) to support party unity and state welfare. OPS emphasized the decision depends on party leaders. His statement has sparked speculation about opposition realignments ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
The Supreme Court questioned whether India is moving backwards as it heard a petition challenging the new UGC equity rules. Petitioners argued that the regulations discriminate against general category students. The court emphasised that the unity of India should be reflected in all educational institutions while reviewing the controversial rules.
Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo offered prayers at the Lord Venkateswara Swamy temple in Tirumala, where TTD officials welcomed him and escorted him for darshan. After his visit, he was presented with silk clothes and a portrait of the deity at Ranganayakula Mandapam, highlighting the cultural and spiritual exchange during his visit.
Senior Congress MP Shashi Tharoor held discussions with LoP Rahul Gandhi and party president Mallikarjun Kharge in Parliament. The meeting, continuing for around 30 minutes, arrives amid reports of tensions within the party and Tharoor’s absence from recent meetings, sparking speculation about internal dynamics and efforts to address any differences.