The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) surged past the majority mark in early trends, leading in 44 seats as vote counting continued. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), initially lagging, narrowed the gap with leads in 25 seats. The Election Commission of India began counting at 8 AM, with postal ballots counted first. Exit polls had predicted a strong BJP performance, making AAP’s hat-trick unlikely. With 699 candidates in the fray, the final results remain awaited. Congress remains a distant third. The outcome will determine Delhi’s next government after AAP’s two consecutive terms.

Washington, United States – President Donald Trump has called for the shutdown of USAID, claiming “corruption at levels rarely seen.” His administration has frozen foreign aid and ordered most of the agency’s 10,000 employees to leave. Elon Musk, backing Trump’s move, has shared photos of USAID signage being removed. Critics, including former USAID chief Samantha Power, warn this weakens U.S. global influence. A federal judge has paused plans to furlough 2,200 employees. Meanwhile, Trump also froze U.S. aid to South Africa over disputed land policies. Democrats vow legal action, while Musk faces scrutiny over Treasury data access.

Milkipur bypoll results in Uttar Pradesh will be declared today. After losing Faizabad Lok Sabha, which includes Ayodhya's Ram Mandir, BJP has made Milkipur a prestige battle. CM Yogi Adityanath and top leaders campaigned extensively, urging voters to “avenge” their loss. BJP's Chandrabhanu Paswan faces SP’s Ajit Prasad, son of Faizabad MP Awadhesh Prasad. SP leader Akhilesh Yadav calls the bypoll a “challenge” against BJP’s governance. The BJP, eyeing a comeback in UP, faces stiff resistance as Samajwadi Party banks on its PDA vote base. Results will decide BJP’s momentum after recent state victories.

The Election Commission of India began counting votes for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections at 8 AM. Early trends show the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leading on 35 seats, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is ahead on 27. The Congress is leading on two seats. Exit polls had predicted a BJP victory, ending AAP’s decade-long rule. Delhi recorded a 60.54% voter turnout, with North East Delhi registering the highest participation. Counting of postal ballots began first, followed by Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Final results will be announced later today.

The high-stakes Delhi Assembly election results will be declared tomorrow, with AAP aiming for a fourth term and BJP hoping to end its 27-year drought. Counting begins at 8 am across 19 centres under heavy security, with trends expected by noon. Exit polls predict a big win for BJP, but AAP dismisses them. Congress hopes to gain ground after two poor performances. Delhi recorded a 60.54% voter turnout on February 5. Key battles include Arvind Kejriwal’s New Delhi seat and Atishi’s Kalkaji. Final results may be announced by evening.

British pop star Ed Sheeran, currently on a six-city tour in India, played the sitar for the first time, calling it a "great experience." He also met legendary composer AR Rahman at KM Music Conservatory in Chennai, where he sang "Perfect" with the institute’s choir. Rahman shared pictures of their meeting on Instagram. Sheeran's tour began in Pune on January 30 and continued in Hyderabad. His next performances are in Chennai, Bengaluru, Shillong, and Delhi-NCR. Fans are eagerly anticipating his concerts as he explores India's rich musical traditions.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday questioned the Election Commission (EC) over the addition of 39 lakh new voters in Maharashtra between the 2024 Lok Sabha and upcoming Assembly elections. Speaking at a joint press conference with INDIA bloc leaders, including Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Sanjay Raut and NCP-SS’s Supriya Sule, he demanded access to voter lists, alleging irregularities. "If EC is alive, it should answer," Raut said. Gandhi warned of legal action, claiming a threat to constitutional democracy. The EC has yet to respond to the allegations. The opposition demands transparency in Maharashtra’s voter registration process.

The Indian Consulate in Seattle reported a law and order situation after individuals attempted unauthorized entry following visa denial to Indian-American politician Kshama Sawant. The Consulate stated that the incident occurred after office hours and that staff faced threats. Sawant alleged the visa rejection was politically motivated, while Indian officials maintained their right to determine visa approvals. The situation has sparked controversy, with supporters demanding transparency. The Consulate emphasized the need for order and security in diplomatic premises.

The UK government confirmed plans to demolish London’s Grenfell Tower, where 72 people died in a 2017 fire. The process, expected to take two years, will begin after the disaster’s eighth anniversary on June 14. Authorities cited safety concerns, saying the building’s condition is deteriorating. Victims' families remain divided—some call the decision “disgraceful,” while others acknowledge safety risks. A public inquiry blamed the tragedy on “systematic dishonesty” by building firms and regulatory failures. Survivors also criticize delays in fire safety reforms and prosecutions. The site remains a painful yet sacred space for many.

The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) issued a notice to AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal after he alleged BJP offered ₹15 crore and ministerial posts to 16 AAP candidates. ACB asked Kejriwal to provide evidence and details of those contacted. An ACB team visited his residence, but AAP leaders blocked them, calling it a "political stunt." AAP's legal cell said ACB lacked a warrant. Kejriwal’s claim surfaced after exit polls suggested a BJP victory in the February 5 Delhi election. The final results will be announced Saturday.