Former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Qureshi has rejected a report by a US agency that claimed the US government funded Indian elections. Qureshi criticized the allegations as misleading and affirmed that there was no foreign involvement in the Indian electoral process. The report raised concerns about the integrity of the elections, but Qureshi's response emphasized that India's democratic institutions are free from external interference. He further argued that such claims could potentially undermine public trust in the electoral system. The article highlights the broader implications of foreign influence in elections, stressing the importance of electoral integrity.

The Indian Army retaliated against Pakistani troops after they opened small arms fire on an Indian post in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, on February 16, 2025. The firing occurred along the Line of Control (LoC) and was met with an appropriate response by Indian forces. The incident follows a series of attacks in the region, including terrorist activities and landmine explosions. Over the last year, counteroffensives against terrorism in J&K have intensified, leading to numerous terrorist eliminations and casualties on both sides. Three government employees were recently dismissed for alleged ties to terror activities.

On February 17, 2025, former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, accompanied by his wife Akshata Murty and their two daughters, visited the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, India. The family arrived at the monument in the morning and spent approximately an hour exploring its majestic architecture and lush gardens. Sunak expressed admiration for the Taj Mahal, describing it as a "breathtaking testament to timeless love and artistry." This visit is part of the Sunak family's private tour of India, during which they have also planned to explore other cultural and historical sites across the country

Two men, Sandeep Singh (Sunny) and Pradeep Singh, were arrested on February 15, 2025, at Amritsar airport after being deported from the US. The duo, originally from Rajpura, Patiala, were wanted in a 2023 murder case. The murder investigation led to their inclusion in the case, with Pradeep added as an accomplice. The pair were among 116 deported individuals aboard a US military aircraft, part of a crackdown on illegal immigrants. The police were tipped off about their arrival and apprehended them immediately. Their arrest marks a significant success in the cooperation between various law enforcement agencies.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded its visa-on-arrival facility for Indian nationals, now including travelers from six additional countries. This initiative aims to bolster tourism and business ties between India and the UAE. Eligible Indian passport holders can obtain a 14-day visa, extendable for an additional 14 days, or a 60-day non-extendable visa upon arrival. To qualify, travelers must possess a valid passport with at least six months' validity and meet specific criteria set by UAE authorities.

Over 100 Indian migrants have been deported from the United States, recounting harrowing journeys through perilous 'donkey routes' to reach their destination. These individuals traversed dense jungles, crossed treacherous terrains, and endured life-threatening conditions, including walking 45 kilometers and witnessing fatalities along the way. Many were deceived by agents who promised legal entry into the U.S., only to be subjected to dangerous and illegal paths. Upon arrival, they faced detention in dark cells and were eventually deported back to India, highlighting the severe risks associated with illegal immigration.

After being deported from the US, 117 illegal immigrants arrived at Amritsar airport, sharing their distressing experience of being shackled and handcuffed during their 66-hour journey. Most deportees, including men, expressed resentment over the restraints, though some acknowledged they were for safety reasons due to fragile emotional states. Many of the deportees, including Mandeep and Mantaj, faced depression and hopelessness. The Indian government has been engaging with US authorities to ensure deportees' treatment is respectful, as per the US standard procedure for deportation since 2012, which includes the use of restraints.

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has canceled a $21 million grant aimed at boosting voter turnout in India, citing a reduction in wasteful spending. Other cuts include $29 million for political strengthening in Bangladesh and $40 million for a gender equality hub. BJP has criticized the move, calling it external interference in India's elections. This aligns with DOGE's mission to eliminate unnecessary government expenses, though its actions have raised concerns about transparency and Musk's influence over public funds.

The Punjab Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested an immigration agent in connection with a complaint from a U.S. deportee. This marks the first arrest following allegations from individuals deported from the U.S. The SIT, led by ADGP NRI Affairs Praveen Sinha, is investigating complaints from deportees who were defrauded by travel agents. The team has recorded statements of deportees and registered FIRs against fraudulent travel agents. DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav urged citizens to come forward with information to help arrest the culprits.

On February 16, 2025, a US military aircraft carrying 157 Indian deportees landed at Amritsar's Shri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport. This marks the third group repatriated under the Trump administration's intensified crackdown on illegal immigration. The majority of these individuals are from Haryana. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has expressed concerns over Amritsar being used as a deportation hub, emphasizing the city's cultural and religious significance. Earlier deportations included 104 individuals on February 5 and 117 on February 15. Reports indicate that deportees were handcuffed during transit, prompting condemnation from various political parties and organizations.