A 2024 Central Ground Water Board report reveals a serious groundwater contamination problem in Haryana and Punjab. The report shows increasing levels of harmful substances like fluoride, nitrates, and salt in the water. Districts like Jind and Bathinda are particularly affected, with residents facing health risks due to the poor water quality. This contamination is mainly caused by over-pumping groundwater for irrigation and the overuse of fertilizers. Experts are urging the adoption of more sustainable farming methods, stricter pollution regulations, and better water management practices to combat this growing crisis. They stress the need for immediate action to protect both people's health and the agricultural sector in these states.  

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has opened its new headquarters, Keshav Kunj, in New Delhi. The 5 lakh square feet complex has three towers, auditoriums, a library, a hospital, and a Hanuman temple. Built with ₹150 crore gathered through public donations, the facility is meant for events, training, and large gatherings. Located in Jhandewalan, the modern infrastructure includes office spaces, residential rooms, and big lawns, making it bigger than the BJP headquarters. Keshav Kunj will serve the growing work of the RSS.  

Comedian Samay Raina has deleted all episodes of his show India’s Got Latent following backlash over a joke by YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia. The joke sparked outrage, leading to police complaints against Raina, Allahbadia, and others. Raina said the situation had become “too much to handle” and assured full cooperation with authorities. He stated that his only aim was to entertain people. Amid the controversy, his upcoming shows in Ahmedabad and Surat have been cancelled. The debate over the show’s content continues as authorities investigate the matter.

YouTubers Apoorva Mukhija and Ashish Chanchlani told police that India’s Got Latent is not scripted. They said panellists and contestants speak freely and are not given pre-written lines. This comes amid the controversy over Ranveer Allahbadia’s remarks on the show. An FIR has been filed against 30 people, including the show’s host Samay Raina. The police have summoned multiple celebrities, and the National Commission for Women has also taken action. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Cyber Cell has asked YouTube to remove episodes with obscene content. The controversy continues to grow as more statements are recorded.

Bastar district of Chhattisgarh has intensified its drive against Maoism by pursuing a combination of security and development strategies. Roads have been constructed by the government, basic services improved, and welfare schemes extended to remote villages, once under Maoist control. Security camps have been set up in Maoist strongholds like Bijapur, Sukma, and Narayanpur, which has facilitated greater state presence. In 2024, big operations led to the deaths of 217 Maoists in encounters. The Chhattisgarh government is committed to the complete eradication of violent Maoism by March 2026, with the objective of permanent peace through military and developmental initiatives.  

A Delhi court has acquitted seven women accused of obscenity for dancing in a bar, ruling that wearing small clothes and performing is not a crime unless it offends public sentiment. The case was filed in March 2024 under IPC Section 294, alleging the women engaged in obscene acts. Judge Neetu Sharma reviewed CCTV footage and stated, “The accused did not wear revealing outfits or perform obscenely.” The verdict reaffirmed that dancing in bars is not illegal. The bar manager was also acquitted. The ruling highlights evolving perspectives on personal freedom and morality in India.

Acharya Satyendra Das, the chief priest of Ayodhya’s Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, passed away at 83 after suffering a brain stroke. He was undergoing treatment at SGPGIMS Lucknow. A spiritual figure since age 20, Das played a key role in temple affairs, including relocating idols before the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992. He recently celebrated the Pran Pratishtha anniversary. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had visited him in the hospital. Das was widely respected for his insights on religious matters and featured in the 2024 documentary The Battle of Ayodhya.

Mumbai Police questioned influencer Apoorva Mukhija after she arrived at Khar police station regarding Ranveer Allahbadia’s remarks on Samay Raina’s show, ‘India’s Got Latent.’ Allahbadia’s controversial statements led to an FIR, summoning 30 past guests. Assam Police also launched a probe into the case, targeting Allahbadia, Raina, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Mukhija. The Maharashtra Cyber Department has registered complaints against 30-40 people linked to the show. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has summoned Allahbadia and others, with a hearing scheduled for February 17. The controversy continues to escalate.

Lakhs of devotees took a holy dip at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj for Maghi Purnima, marking the fourth bathing event at Maha Kumbh 2025. The sacred bath also concludes the month-long Kalpavas, with 10 lakh Kalpvasis set to leave. Authorities enforced no-vehicle zones and deployed 1,200 additional buses to manage crowds. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath monitored the situation, extending wishes to devotees. “May Maa Ganga bless all,” he tweeted. Over 45 crore pilgrims have bathed at Sangam since January 13. The final Amrit Snan will take place on February 26.

Maharashtra cyber police have filed an FIR against podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, comedian Samay Raina, and 30 others for allegedly transmitting obscene content on Raina’s show India’s Got Latent. The case, registered under Section 67 of the IT Act, follows a similar FIR in Assam. Authorities, including the Maharashtra Women’s Commission, have called for action, urging a halt to the show’s telecast. Mumbai police have summoned Allahbadia, Raina, and other participants. Lawyers for Ashish Chanchalani and another artist appeared at Khar police station. Investigations into the controversial show are ongoing.