Nagpur Violence News Highlights: CM Fadnavis appeals for peace; Section 144 imposed in Mahal

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In response to the unrest, authorities have imposed Section 144 in the Mahal area, restricting large gatherings. Police have urged the crowd to disperse and maintain peace in the city.

Speaking about the incident, CP Singal stated, "A photograph was set on fire, which instigated people. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway. Later, clashes erupted. Some police personnel have been injured, but no one sustained serious injuries."

Condemning the violence, Congress leader Atul Londhe Patil said, "It’s an unfortunate incident. Nagpur is a place of brotherhood. Such violence has never happened here before… I appeal to the people of Nagpur to maintain peace."

Nagpur MP and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has urged residents to maintain peace and refrain from believing in rumours following religious tensions in the city.

"Due to certain rumours, a situation of religious tension has arisen in Nagpur. The city's history is known for maintaining peace in such matters. I urge all my brothers not to believe in any kind of rumours and to maintain peace," Gadkari said.

He appealed to people to stay off the streets and cooperate with law enforcement authorities.

"Preserve the tradition of peace and harmony that Nagpur is known for. The government will take action against those who have engaged in illegal activities. The Chief Minister has been informed, and I request everyone to cooperate with the police and foster a positive atmosphere in the city," he added.

Tensions escalated in Nagpur as violent clashes erupted, resulting in stone-pelting and arson, according to a fire department official.

Speaking to the media, a fire officer said, “On one side, we have the public, and on the other, the administration is trying to control the situation. Two JCBs were burnt. There is stone pelting, and one of our officers has been injured.”

Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai, after being released from detention today, launched a scathing attack on the DMK government and the state police, accusing them of acting as “stooges” of the ruling party.

"Some police officers have become stooges of the DMK. They can remove their uniform and wear the DMK dress. The DGP and Commissioner seem more focused on pleasing the Chief Minister from morning till evening," Annamalai said.

He also criticised the police for allegedly violating protocols regarding the detention of women during protests.

"After 6 pm, they were not supposed to keep women in detention, yet they were held till 7 pm. We had to fight to be released," he claimed.

Despite his criticism, Annamalai maintained that he respects the police force but condemned the alleged political interference in law enforcement.

Luxon also lauded India’s historic electoral participation, describing it as a "triumph of logistics and legitimacy."

"It is an inspiration that 650 million Indians turned out to vote last year in the largest election in history. Your national election is not just a triumph of logistics but also a triumph of legitimacy," Luxon said while addressing the Raisina Dialogue 2025 in New Delhi.

The New Zealand PM also highlighted the need for a free and open Indo-Pacific, asserting that "countries must be free to choose their own path without interference."

"We want to live in an Indo-Pacific where countries are free to choose their own path, free from interference—a region where no one country comes to dominate," he added

Luxon also highlighted the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), stating that it will reshape economies and societies across multiple sectors.

"We are on the cusp of a tech transformation of our economies and societies. AI will have an impact across the whole economy, not just in one or two sectors, transforming the way we work, study, and entertain ourselves. This presents risks that will need to be managed," Luxon said at the Raisina Dialogue 2025 in New Delhi.

He stressed the need for responsible AI governance, acknowledging both its potential and challenges.

The New Zealand PM also underscored India's pivotal role in shaping the economic future of the Indo-Pacific, calling it a key driver of regional growth and opportunities.

"The Indo-Pacific is the world’s most economically dynamic region. It will represent two-thirds of global economic growth over the coming years. India is at the heart of the region’s exciting economic future, offering massive opportunities for every country in the Indo-Pacific," Luxon said.

Luxon also underscored the historical and cultural ties between India and New Zealand, highlighting the contributions of the Kiwi-Indian community in his country.

"It is more than 200 years since Indians and New Zealanders began living side by side. Just as they were 200 years ago, 'Kiwi-Indians' today are fully integrated into our multicultural society. New Zealanders of Indian heritage comprise 11% of the people living in Auckland, our biggest city," Luxon stated.

He further emphasized the diverse and influential roles played by Kiwi-Indians in New Zealand’s development, adding, "I brought with me to New Delhi a selection of Kiwi-Indian community leaders - members of parliament, captains of industry, professional cricketers, and an online influencer who has revolutionized investment for women in the world. In short, a selection of Kiwi-Indians who get up each and every single morning to make New Zealand a better place to live."

Luxon, this evening, lauded India’s remarkable achievements over the past decade, highlighting its economic expansion, poverty alleviation, and advancements in technology and space exploration.

"India has made extraordinary achievements in the last decade. Despite the COVID-19 crisis, its economy expanded by 50%. It has eliminated poverty, is at the cutting edge of technology, and became the first country to land on the Moon’s South Pole," Luxon noted.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today, reaffirming the close and friendly ties between India and New Zealand.

Welcoming Luxon and his delegation, President Murmu highlighted the shared values of democracy, rule of law, and strong people-to-people connections that define the relationship between the two nations.

Recalling her State Visit to New Zealand in August last year, President Murmu spoke of the country’s natural beauty and rich cultural diversity, which left a lasting impression on her.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today launched a dedicated mobile application for the Prime Minister Internship Scheme, aimed at expanding opportunities for young job seekers.

She also urged more companies to participate in the programme to help bridge the gap between industry requirements and workforce skills.

The scheme, which was piloted on October 3, 2024, aims to provide 1.25 lakh internship opportunities to young people during the 2024-25 financial year.

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump are scheduled to hold a conversation today as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine, according to an Associated Press report.

The upcoming discussion follows recent diplomatic exchanges, including a visit by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff to Moscow, where he engaged in talks with President Putin.

While details of the agenda remain undisclosed, the conversation is expected to cover key issues related to territorial disputes, security guarantees, and potential steps toward de-escalation.

India is hosting the Quad Workshop on Pandemic Preparedness from March 17-19, bringing together key stakeholders to bolster health security and resilience in the Indo-Pacific. The workshop includes Quad partners Australia, Japan, and the United States, along with delegates from 15 countries in the region.

Announcing the event, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised the Quad’s commitment to being a "force for good" in the region.

"The Workshop brings together Quad partners Australia, Japan, and the US, & delegates from 15 countries of the Indo-Pacific to strengthen pandemic responses, enhance resilience, & implement the One Health approach for a safer, healthier Indo-Pacific," Jaiswal posted on X.

Twelve police personnel have been suspended following an alleged clash between an Army officer and police personnel at a hospital in Patiala, senior police officials confirmed this afternoon.

Speaking on the matter, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Nanak Singh termed the incident "unfortunate" and assured strict action against those found guilty.

"An FIR has been registered, and an investigation is underway. Respect for the Army is our priority. There have always been cordial relations between the police and the local Army unit, and we will ensure that those responsible are held accountable," SSP Singh stated.

He further confirmed that 12 police personnel, including an Inspector, Sub-Inspector, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), Head Constable, and Constable, have been suspended for a departmental inquiry, which will be time-bound and completed within 45 days.

"Both parties have recorded their statements, and we will examine technical evidence and all on-record material to ensure a fair probe. The investigation will be taken to a logical conclusion," the SSP added.

Gabbard also dismissed claims that American intelligence agents were involved in any regime change efforts in India.

Addressing concerns about "Deep State" assets, Gabbard clarified that, to her knowledge, no such operations had taken place.

"To my knowledge, the answer is no," she said when asked about the alleged involvement of US intelligence in regime change efforts in India.

She further revealed that an unrelated incident had occurred where intelligence professionals misused an intelligence-based chat network for "highly unprofessional and sexually explicit conversations" over an extended period.

Tulsi Gabbard has expressed optimism about the future of India-US economic relations despite concerns over tariffs.

She noted that Indian government officials view the issue as an opportunity to further strengthen bilateral trade rather than focusing solely on challenges.

Speaking on the US tariff regime during her visit to India, Gabbard said, "What I have heard from Indian government officials is that there is an opportunity here to see more potential for strengthening our economic relationship. I am glad to see that they are looking at it in a positive light rather than just one that is focused in a negative way when we look at tariffs."

Today, the Maharashtra Cyber Cell issued a second summon to comedian and YouTuber Samay Raina, asking him to appear on March 19 to record his statement in connection with India’s Got Latent show.

Raina was initially summoned to appear before the Cyber Cell on Monday but failed to do so.

Following his absence, authorities have now directed him to comply with the investigation and provide his statement on the specified date.

PM Modi and his New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon today reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism and extremist elements, emphasizing the need for strict action against perpetrators.

Addressing a joint press conference following bilateral talks, PM Modi highlighted the shared stance of both nations on tackling terrorism. Citing the 2019 Christchurch mosque attack and the 2008 Mumbai 26/11 attacks, he asserted that terrorism in any form is "unacceptable" and requires decisive action.

PM Modi and Prime Minister of New Zealand Christopher Luxon deliver a joint press statement PM Modi says, During the joint press statement with New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon, PM Modi says, "I welcome PM Luxon and his cabinet to India... PM Luxon is connected to India. We saw how he celebrated Holi recently... We are happy that a young leader like him is our chief guest at the Raisina Dialogue 2025..."

"...Work will be done by India and New Zealand to formulate an agreement to deal with the issue of illegal migration."

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard hold bilateral meeting in Delhi.

In a written reply, Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has informed Maharashtra Assembly that the state Govt has decided to not discontinue 'Shivbhojan Thali' and 'Anandacha Sidha'. He added that payments of some of the vendors of these schemes are pending, so initiatives are being taken to clear their dues at the earliest. (From ANI)

Shiv Sena has announced Chandrakant Raghuwanshi as its candidate for the upcoming Maharashtra Legislative Council (MLC) by-elections.

Speaking on his nomination, Raghuwanshi said, "I received a call from the party office in the morning asking if I was in Nandurbar or Mumbai. I told them I was in Mumbai. I asked if my papers were ready and if the leader had called me... I have previously served as an MLC three times, and I have full experience."

Former U.S. President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to criticize President Joe Biden’s recent pardons, claiming they are invalid because they were signed using an autopen.

“The ‘Pardons’ that Sleepy Joe Biden gave to the Unselect Committee of Political Thugs, and many others, are hereby declared VOID, VACANT, AND OF NO FURTHER FORCE OR EFFECT, because of the fact that they were done by Autopen,” Trump posted on Truth Social.

US President Donald Trump says he will be speaking with Russia’s Putin on March 18, may have something to announce on Russia-Ukraine talks by Tuesday, AP reports.

No intention of creating exemptions on steel & aluminium tariffs, reciprocal tariffs on countries will come alongside auto duties.

Trump says he will speak to Putin on Tuesday as talks continue over potential end to war in Ukraine.

Slovak Ambassador to India Robert Maxian highlighted Slovakia's commitment to strengthening ties with India during the Raisina Dialogue 2025. Speaking at the event, Maxian stressed the significance of the conference for Slovakia, noting that he was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the Minister of Finance, the State Secretary, and over 30 business representatives.

“This powerful delegation demonstrates our involvement and interest in India's development,” Maxian said. He also expressed Slovakia’s desire to contribute to India’s ‘Developed India 2047’ vision.

Maxian noted the growing trade ties between the two nations, revealing that bilateral business had surpassed €1.3 billion last year. “Slovak investors are very active in India,” he noted, adding that cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections have also witnessed notable progress.

A 55-year-old man sleeping on the roadside in Mumbai’s Vile Parle was crushed by a reversing JCB engaged in road construction. CCTV footage confirmed the incident. Juhu Police have registered a case and are searching for the driver, who fled the scene

In a significant diplomatic development, India and New Zealand have decided to relaunch negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) after a decade-long pause. This move aims to strengthen economic ties against the backdrop of growing geopolitical tensions.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met with New Zealand's Trade Minister Todd McClay to announce the launch of comprehensive and mutually beneficial FTA negotiations.

"This marks a significant milestone in our partnership, reflecting our shared vision to deepen trade ties and expand economic opportunities," Goyal stated on social media platform X following his meeting with McClay.

With bilateral trade exceeding $1 billion during April-January 2025, the renewed FTA discussions are expected to unlock new business opportunities, fostering growth and prosperity for both nations.

The conference will see participation from notable dignitaries, including Enrique A. Manalo, Foreign Minister of the Philippines, and EP Chet Greene, Foreign Minister of Antigua & Barbuda. Both leaders have arrived in New Delhi to attend the prestigious gathering.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will serve as the chief guest and deliver the keynote address at the event.

The 2025 Raisina Dialogue, themed 'Kalachakra - People, Peace and Planet', will focus on six key thematic pillars: Politics Interrupted, Resolving the Green Trilemma, Digital Planet, Militant Mercantilism, The Tiger's Tale, and Investing in Peace. The conference is hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs.

India's prestigious Raisina Dialogue is set to convene in New Delhi from March 17-19, bringing together influential leaders, policymakers, and experts to address pressing global issues. With over 3,500 participants from 125 countries, this year’s edition promises to be a significant platform for international dialogue.

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