Activist Sonam Wangchuk Arrested in Ladakh Under NSA Amid Protests
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was arrested by Ladakh police on Friday, September 26, under the National Security Act (NSA), following violent protests in the region. He was reportedly moved to Jodhpur, Rajasthan. His wife, Gitanjali Angmo, stated that hundreds of policemen detained him from his village, Uletokpo. The Ladakh administration justified the arrest, citing Wangchuk's "provocative speeches" with references to the Nepal agitation and the Arab Spring, which they claim led to the violence that resulted in four deaths and several injuries. The detention comes amidst ongoing agitations for statehood and Sixth Schedule status for the Union Territory of Ladakh. Opposition parties have criticized the Centre over Wangchuk's arrest. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) action against Wangchuk was reportedly based on five transactions.
Tragic Steel Plant Collapse in Chhattisgarh Claims Lives
A steel plant structure collapsed in Chhattisgarh, resulting in the deaths of five workers, with several others feared trapped. Rescue operations are currently underway at the site of the industrial accident.
Major Strides in India's Defence Capabilities
India marked significant advancements in its defence sector. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully test-fired the Agni-Prime (Agni-P) missile from a rail-based mobile launcher for the first time on September 26. This achievement places India among a select group of nations capable of such advanced missile technology. In another major development, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a substantial deal worth ā¹62,370 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 97 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This order includes 68 fighters and 29 twin-seaters, with deliveries anticipated between 2027-28 and 2033-34. Furthermore, the Indian Air Force is bidding farewell to its oldest fighter jets, the MiG-21s.
Government Initiatives and Electoral Reforms
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana in Bihar, transferring ā¹10,000 each via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to 75 lakh women in the state. This initiative aims to boost financial independence and livelihood opportunities for women. Concurrently, the 21st installment of the PM-KISAN scheme was also released. In electoral reforms, the Election Commission of India (ECI) reinstated the pre-2019 counting sequence, mandating the completion of postal ballot counting before the finalization of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) results. This decision aligns with Rule 54A of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, and aims to enhance procedural integrity and prevent premature trends.
India Rejects NATO Chief's Claims on PM Modi-Putin Call
India dismissed reports suggesting that Prime Minister Modi had called Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a NATO plan for Ukraine. Officials clarified that no such discussion took place, labeling the claims as "careless" and "speculative".
India Clinches Super Over Victory Against Sri Lanka in Asia Cup
In a thrilling encounter, India defeated Sri Lanka in a Super Over during the Asia Cup. The match, which was a dead rubber, saw high drama as it ended in a tie before India secured the win in the Super Over.