Digest for 20 August, 2025
Government to Introduce Bills for Automatic Removal of Jailed Ministers
The Union government plans to introduce three bills in Parliament to create a legal framework for the automatic removal of a Prime Minister, Union minister, or Chief Minister. Under the proposed law, if such an official is arrested and detained for 30 consecutive days on serious criminal charges (punishable by five or more years), they would cease to hold office on the 31st day. The move aims to enhance political accountability and ensure governance is not run from custody.
Cabinet Clears ₹62,000 Crore Deal for 97 Indigenous Tejas Fighter Jets
The Cabinet Committee on Security has approved the acquisition of 97 indigenous Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) for approximately ₹62,000 crore. This major defence deal is a significant boost for India's domestic aerospace industry and the 'Make in India' initiative. The advanced aircraft are intended to replace the Indian Air Force's ageing MiG-21 fleet, substantially enhancing its combat capabilities. The news prompted a rally in HAL's stock price.
Bomb Threats Sent to 50 Schools Across Delhi, Sparking Panic
Around 50 schools across Delhi received bomb threats via email, triggering widespread panic and forcing evacuations. Police and bomb disposal squads were dispatched to conduct thorough searches of the premises. This is the second such mass threat incident in three days, disrupting school operations and raising serious concerns among parents and authorities about student safety in the national capital. The threats are being investigated as hoaxes, part of a disruptive pattern seen in recent months.
NDA's C.P. Radhakrishnan Files Nomination for Vice President
C.P. Radhakrishnan, the candidate for the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), has officially filed his nomination papers for the Vice-Presidential election. He was accompanied by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior coalition leaders. Radhakrishnan, the current Governor of Maharashtra, will contest against the opposition's candidate, B. Sudarshan Reddy. His election to the country's second-highest constitutional office is considered a certainty given the NDA's majority in the electoral college.
Delhi Chief Minister Attacked During Public Meeting
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was attacked during a 'Jan Sunwai' (public hearing) at her official residence. A man reportedly approached her with papers before grabbing her hand and attempting to pull her. The assailant was immediately overpowered and detained by Delhi Police. The incident, which caused a scuffle but no serious injury, has been widely condemned across party lines and has prompted a review of the security arrangements for the Chief Minister during public interactions.