Digest for 28 September, 2025
Stampede at Political Rally in Tamil Nadu Kills at Least 39
A stampede at a political rally held by actor-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party in Karur, Tamil Nadu, has resulted in the deaths of at least 39 people, including women and children, with over 80 injured. The tragedy occurred amid massive overcrowding as thousands gathered to see the popular film star. The state government has announced a judicial inquiry into the incident and sanctioned compensation for the victims' families, with Vijay's party also pledging financial assistance to those affected.
India Calls Pakistan 'Epicentre of Terrorism' at UN General Assembly
At the UN General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar described a neighbouring country, widely understood to be Pakistan, as an "epicentre of global terrorism" where terror hubs operate on an "industrial scale." Without being named, Pakistan responded, prompting an Indian diplomat to state the reaction was an "admission of their longstanding practice of cross-border terrorism." The exchange highlighted India's firm stance on counter-terrorism and its assertion that it will defend its people against cross-border attacks.
Russia Affirms Respect for India's Independent Foreign Policy
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Russia fully respects India's independent foreign policy and national interests, emphasizing that India's ties with the US or other nations are not a benchmark for Moscow-New Delhi relations. Speaking at the UN, Lavrov praised India for prioritizing its own interests, particularly concerning its continued purchase of Russian oil despite Western pressure. He highlighted the strong, multi-faceted strategic partnership between the two countries, describing India's stance as a "very worthy response."
Activist Sonam Wangchuk Probed for Alleged Pakistan Links, Says Ladakh Police
Ladakh's Director General of Police has stated that prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk, recently detained under the National Security Act, is being investigated for alleged links with Pakistan. The police claim a Pakistani Intelligence Operative, arrested last month, was sending videos of Wangchuk's protests across the border. Wangchuk has been a leading voice in the agitation for Ladakh's statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule. The police chief described Wangchuk as the "main instigator" of recent violent protests in Leh.
Constable-Turned-Terrorist Extradited from UAE to India
Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist Parminder Singh, alias Pindi, has been extradited from the United Arab Emirates. A former constable with the Batala police, Pindi fled to the UAE in 2023 to evade arrest for his alleged involvement in multiple crimes, including petrol bomb attacks and extortions. He was identified as a local handler for a terror module backed by Pakistan-based terrorists. His extradition is being hailed as a major success resulting from coordinated efforts between Indian agencies and the UAE government.