The Supreme Court of India quashed an FIR against Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi, ruling that satire and art “make life more meaningful.” Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan emphasized protecting free speech, stating, “Even if many dislike a view, it must be protected.” The ruling coincides with the Kunal Kamra controversy, where Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde’s supporters vandalized a Mumbai venue over his satire. Kamra mocked Maharashtra’s political shifts, calling them confusing for voters. The court reaffirmed that literature, drama, and films enrich public discourse and must be safeguarded. (PC: Hindustan Times)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce its central contracts, retaining Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah in the A+ category. Shreyas Iyer is expected to regain his contract, while Ishan Kishan’s inclusion remains uncertain. Axar Patel may be promoted to Grade A, while Varun Chakravarthy, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Abhishek Sharma are set for contracts. Bengal pacer Akash Deep and Sarfaraz Khan may enter Group C. A final decision is expected after BCCI’s meeting with Gautam Gambhir and Devajit Saikia on Saturday.(x/Sunrisers)

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that the longstanding relationship between Canada and the U.S. is over, citing Washington's declining reliability as a partner. He emphasized that Canada must reduce its economic dependence on the U.S. and seek new trade alliances. Carney’s remarks follow recent U.S. policy shifts that have strained bilateral ties. The statement signals a major shift in Canada's foreign and economic strategy, reflecting growing concerns over trade disputes and political instability in Washington. His comments come amid broader global realignments as countries reassess their alliances in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape. (PC: Mint)  

  Speaking at the Arctic Forum in Murmansk, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that U.S. plans for Greenland are a bilateral matter between Washington and Copenhagen, distancing Russia from the issue. While acknowledging increasing geopolitical competition in the Arctic, he emphasized Russia’s intent to strengthen its leadership in the region. Meanwhile, Russian officials, including Kirill Dmitriev, expressed interest in economic cooperation with the U.S., particularly in Arctic investments. The shift in Russia-U.S. relations comes amid growing alignment between certain American political figures and Kremlin narratives, signaling potential diplomatic and economic realignments. (PC: BBC News)  

Uttar Pradesh Police have warned that offering namaz on public roads could result in the cancellation of driving licenses and passports. The directive aims to prevent traffic disruptions and maintain public order. Authorities have urged people to use designated places of worship instead of public spaces for religious gatherings. The move is part of broader efforts to regulate public gatherings and ensure communal harmony. This decision has sparked debate, with some supporting it for maintaining order, while others see it as restrictive. (PC: India News)    

Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested placing Ukraine under a temporary administration to facilitate new elections and peace negotiations. Speaking in Murmansk, he claimed Russia is steadily achieving its military objectives. Putin also expressed confidence in former U.S. President Donald Trump’s intent to mediate peace in Ukraine. Additionally, he signaled Russia’s willingness to cooperate with North Korea and other allies to resolve the conflict. The proposal raises concerns over Ukraine’s sovereignty and future governance, as tensions between Russia and Western nations continue to escalate.

Shiv Sena leader Rahool Kanal has alleged that comedian Kunal Kamra received foreign funds, including from Khalistani sources, to create anti-government content. Kanal claims to have over 300 screenshots as evidence and plans to submit them to the Mumbai Police. He also intends to urge YouTube to demonetize Kamra's channel. The accusations come after Kanal was previously arrested for vandalizing The Habitat Studio following Kamra’s alleged comments against Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. Kamra has not yet responded to these claims. (PC: PTI)  

The Ministry of Defence has signed two contracts worth ₹2,500 crore to strengthen the Indian Army’s capabilities. The first contract, worth ₹1,801.34 crore, is with Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited (AVNL) for the Nag Missile System (NAMIS), a fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile system. The second contract is for 5,000 light vehicles from Force Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra. These vehicles will enhance operational mobility. Both deals align with the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, boosting indigenous defense production and generating employment. (PC: CNBC TV 18)  

In a major encounter in Jammu & Kashmir, three police officers lost their lives while engaging in action against terrorists. Two terrorists were neutralized during the operation. Reports indicate that three to four terrorists remain holed up in the area, and security forces continue their efforts to eliminate the threat. The gunfight occurred after terrorists opened fire on a joint team of police and security forces. The tragic incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in countering terrorism in the region. (PC: NDTV)

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's speech at an Oxford seminar turned chaotic when she was confronted about the alleged rape and murder at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College. Tensions escalated as Banerjee accused opposition parties, including BJP and Left, of orchestrating unrest and vandalism at the hospital. The CM also addressed concerns regarding Tata and Hindu organizations. Amid the turmoil, Banerjee urged junior doctors to return to work and suggested the CBI handle the investigation into the incident. (PC: Business Standard)