Digest for 22 August, 2025
US Reviews 55 Million Visa Holders for Potential Deportation Violations
The U.S. State Department is reviewing the records of over 55 million foreigners with valid American visas for potential revocation or deportable violations. Under the Trump administration's policy, all visa holders are subject to "continuous vetting" for indicators like overstays, criminal activity, or threats to public safety. Any individual found in violation could have their visa revoked and face deportation if they are in the United States, creating significant uncertainty for millions of immigrants, including many from India.
Supreme Court Modifies Stray Dog Order, Paving Way for National Policy
The Supreme Court modified a controversial order, ruling that stray dogs in Delhi-NCR can be released back into their original localities after sterilization and vaccination, staying a previous directive for their permanent relocation to shelters. However, the court disallowed public feeding, mandating dedicated feeding spaces instead. Crucially, it transferred all related cases from various high courts to itself, signaling its intent to formulate a comprehensive national policy on the contentious stray dog issue affecting cities nationwide.
Assam to Halt Aadhaar Enrolment for Adults to Curb Illegal Migration
The Assam government will stop issuing new Aadhaar cards to adults from October 1 to prevent suspected illegal migrants from fraudulently obtaining the identity document. A one-year window will remain open for members of Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, and tea garden communities to complete their enrolment. In exceptional cases, District Commissioners may approve applications for others, but only after rigorous verification through police and foreigners' tribunals reports, marking a significant shift in the state's identity and immigration policy.
Jaishankar Meets Putin in Moscow, Calls India-Russia Ties 'Steadiest' in Post-War Era
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, reaffirming the strategic partnership between the two nations. During his visit, Jaishankar described India-Russia relations as among the "steadiest of the major relationships in the world after the Second World War." The high-level talks focused on expanding trade, geopolitical convergence, and finalizing preparations for President Putin's upcoming state visit to India, highlighting the enduring diplomatic ties amid a complex global environment.
Intruder Breaches Parliament Security by Scaling Wall
A man was arrested after a major security breach at the Parliament complex, where he gained entry by climbing a tree and scaling a wall from the Rail Bhavan side. Security personnel promptly apprehended the intruder near the Garuda gate of the new Parliament building. He is being interrogated to ascertain his identity and motive. The incident, occurring just a day after the Monsoon Session concluded, has triggered an urgent review of security protocols at the high-security zone.