Residents of Pancheva village in Ratlam district of Madhya Pradesh, reportedly announced a social boycott against young couples who elope and marry for love, as well as their families, reported the PTI. The decision comes after eight couples reportedly eloped from the village and married over the past six months. A video of a man publicly announcing the boycott has gone viral on social media, prompting authorities to take action. In the video, the man declared that the families of eloping couples would be socially ostracised and excluded from all community events. He also warned that anyone who helps such couples would face the same consequences, according to the PTI. The boycott order reportedly includes - - Refusal to invite the couples and their families to village functions - Denial of employment - Withholding basic daily necessities such as milk - Administration Orders Action After Viral Video Following the viral video, Collector Misha Singh confirmed that the individuals seen in the clip have been identified. She stated that the matter is under investigation and the police have been instructed to take appropriate action, as per the PTI. “Our inquiry found that the boycott decision was taken by villagers themselves, not by the Gram Sabha,” the collector added. Police take legal steps Additional Superintendent of Police (Rural) Vivek Kumar Lal said that the individuals involved are being “bound over”, a legal measure requiring them to maintain good conduct and not disturb peace, the news agency reported. He added that further action will be taken after the investigation is completed. 3 killed as clay mine collapse in MP's Singrauli A devastating accident in the Kudwar police outpost area under Jiawan police station in Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh claimed the lives of three women, while two others sustained serious injuries, reported the IANS. The incident occurred when a mound of earth in an informal clay mine suddenly collapsed, burying five women who had gone to extract white clay locally known as "chhui". The victims, all residents of nearby Parsohar and Harha villages, were reportedly digging for the soft white clay commonly used for various domestic and traditional purposes, the news agency reported. (with PTI and IANS inputs)
26 January,2026 08:37 PM IST | Ratlam (MP) | mid-day online correspondentIn what is being seen as an encouraging sign for wildlife enthusiasts and forest department staff engaged in tiger conservation at the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve in western Maharashtra, male tiger STR-T1 (Senapati) and tigress STR-T4 (Chanda) have reportedly been moving together in the landscape. With the aim of restoring the tiger population in the Sahyadri landscape, the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve (STR), in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun, and the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), launched the Tiger Recovery Project in 2017. The objective of the project is to establish an optimal, free-ranging tiger population in the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve by 2027 and strengthen ecological integrity in the region. Pic/Sahyadri Tiger Reseve/ Maharashtra Forest Department As part of this initiative, the first phase from 2017 to the end of 2022 that focused on increasing prey density through the Prey Augmentation Program, which was implemented successfully. Following research findings that confirmed the success of this phase, a proposal for the second phase of the Tiger Recovery Project was submitted. The proposal received approval from the fourth Technical Committee of the NTCA at its meeting held in New Delhi on October 9, 2023. Based on this approval, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) granted permission to translocate eight tigers (three males and five females) from the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) and Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR) to the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, after which the on-ground implementation began. Sahyadri Tiger Reserves: A sustainable habitat for big cats Due to sustained efforts and effective management by the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve administration, a suitable natural habitat for tigers has been developed in the landscape. Over the past three years, the presence of three male tigers namely STR-T1, STR-T2 and STR-T3 has been recorded, indicating the establishment of natural territories in Sahyadri. However, for natural population growth and breeding, the presence of tigresses was essential. Accordingly, as per the approved plan, tigresses STR-T4 (Chanda) and STR-T5 (Tara) from Tadoba–Andhari Tiger Reserve were successfully translocated to Sahyadri. A crucial aspect of the project was whether the resident male tigers in Sahyadri would coexist with the translocated tigresses, a key factor for successful breeding. This appears to be progressing positively. STR Field Director Tushar Chavan said, "Inputs from tiger monitoring teams and camera-trap footage over the past week indicate that STR-T1 (Senapati) and STR-T4 (Chanda) have been roaming together in the Amba forest range under the Chandoli Wildlife Division. This is a natural behaviour in the wild and is seen as a crucial development from the breeding and tiger population recovery point of view in the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve." STR-T1 (Senapati) has established a strong natural territory in Sahyadri over the past three years and is known for his dominance across a vast landscape. Tigress STR-T4 (Chanda) has also established her home range within the same forest area, covering approximately 35 square kilometers. This development is highly encouraging, and the joint movement of STR-T1 and STR-T4 is expected to facilitate the early natural increase of the tiger population in the Sahyadri Tiger Reserve.
26 January,2026 08:26 PM IST | Maharashtra | Ranjeet JadhavEuropean Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday thanked President Droupadi Murmu for hosting her as the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations in Delhi. Ursula drew attention to the ideological similarities between democracy in Europe and India, and their shared commitment to shaping a new world order, reported ANI. Taking to the social media platform X, she said: “Thank you for hosting us on Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu. Thank you very much for your warm welcome. Europe and India are the world’s largest democracies, committed to working together to shape a new global order. This is why we are here to take our partnership to new heights.” Thank you for hosting us on Republic Day, President @rashtrapatibhvn.स्नेहपूर्ण स्वागत के लिए आपका हार्दिक धन्यवाद।Europe and India are the world’s largest democracies, committed to working together to shape a new global order. This is why we are here to take our… pic.twitter.com/4qxqTIluL1 — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 26, 2026 She also wrote, "The display of the flags of the EU, the EU Military Staff, and our maritime missions ATALANTA and ASPIDES at India's Republic Day is a powerful symbol of our deepening security cooperation. It will culminate tomorrow in the signature of our Security and Defence Partnership." Honour to be the chief guest at R-Day parade: EU Prez The EU President called it her honour to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. In a post on X, she said, "It is the honour of a lifetime to be chief guests at the Republic Day celebrations. A successful India makes the world more stable, prosperous and secure." The display of the flags of the EU, the EU Military Staff, and our maritime missions ATALANTA and ASPIDES at India’s Republic Day is a powerful symbol of our deepening security cooperation.It will culminate tomorrow in the signature of our Security and Defence Partnership. pic.twitter.com/l5pPxFt8Rv — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 26, 2026 India's 77th Republic Day parade concluded on Monday after a spectacular showcase of the country's military might and diverse culture at Kartavya Path. After the parade and after seeing off the president and the visiting foreign dignitaries, Prime Minister Modi kept with his custom of walking along the Kartavya Path. The Prime Minister was seen waving to the spectators who had gathered to witness the Republic Day parades. At the end of the ceremony, President Droupadi Murmu, along with Republic Day Parade Chief Guests, the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Council Antonio Luis Santos da Costa, was escorted by the President's Bodyguard, also known as 'Rashtrapati Ke Angrakshak', as they departed for Rashtrapati Bhavan. India privileged to host EU delegates, says PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India was privileged to host European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during the 77th Republic Day celebrations. India is privileged to host European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during our Republic Day celebrations.Their presence underscores the growing strength of the India-European Union partnership and our commitment to shared… pic.twitter.com/tdKuI6oKyp — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 26, 2026 Posting on X, PM Modi wrote, "India is privileged to host European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during our Republic Day celebrations. Their presence underscores the growing strength of the India-European Union partnership and our commitment to shared values. The visit will add momentum to the deepening engagement and cooperation between India and Europe across diverse sectors." (With inputs from ANI)
26 January,2026 08:26 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentKing Charles III extended greetings to India on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day. In a post on X, the UK embassy in India shared a letter addressed to President Murmu. The letter read, "On the occasion of your Republic Day, my wife and I send our warmest congratulations to you and to the people of the Republic of India." "It is with sincere appreciation that I reflect upon the enduring partnership between our countries, rooted in the shared values and mutual respect that define The Commonwealth. I remain deeply proud of the role our family of nations plays in fostering understanding, cooperation and opportunity across the globe," it further read. King Charles III expressed pleasure over India and the United Kingdom coming together at the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda in November "The Commonwealth's rich diversity and the energy of its younger generations continue to inspire hope and progress. In these times of global uncertainty, our collective strength and unity are more vital than ever. I am so pleased that our nations will come together at the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua and Barbuda in November, where we will reaffirm our shared commitments and set out a collective vision for the future. I am also looking forward to this year's Commonwealth Games in the Summer and congratulate you for securing the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad," the letter read. "I am delighted to see our two countries continue to deepen our partnership in climate and sustainability through clean energy initiatives, cooperation on climate finance and initiatives on clean tech and green growth. I can only commend India's international climate leadership through initiatives such as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. India is a powerful global voice for this crucial cause, and our collaboration underscores a shared resolve to shape a prosperous, secure and sustainable world. My wife and I join in extending our very best wishes to you and to all the people of India for a peaceful and prosperous year ahead," the letter stated. Earlier, the United Kingdom announced a new International Education Strategy aimed at expanding the global footprint of UK education and growing education exports to GBP 40 billion annually by 2030, with India identified as one of five key focus countries for the UK's International Education Champion. According to an official press release, the strategy seeks to support British education providers in delivering UK education overseas in new and expanding markets. It noted that India has been designated a priority country by Professor Sir Steve Smith, the UK's International Education Champion, reflecting the growing importance of educational cooperation between the two nations. Before this, the eighth edition of the biennial Indo-UK Army exercise 'Ajeya Warrior' concluded after nearly two weeks of intensive training at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. Continuing the trend of increasing complexity and interoperability, the exercise this time focused on conducting peace-enforcement operations in a counterterrorism environment, as mandated under Chapter 7 of the United Nations Charter. This involved executing simulated operations in a multi-domain urban and semi-urban environment. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 08:21 PM IST | New Delhi | ANIThe 77th Republic Day celebrations were held on a grand scale across Kerala on Monday, but the official ceremony in the state capital was marked by a fresh flashpoint in the ongoing standoff between the Governor and the LDF government. At the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Governor Rajendra Arlekar hoisted the national flag, inspected the parade comprising various contingents, and received the ceremonial salute. However, in a departure from convention, the Governor chose to deviate from the printed speech that had been distributed at the Republic Day function. The speech is traditionally prepared by the state government in consultation with Raj Bhavan, making the omission politically significant. The move comes against the backdrop of a simmering controversy over the Governor’s role in the address delivered at the start of the Assembly session. Governor Arlekar had unilaterally made changes to the policy address, following which Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan read out portions that had been omitted, triggering a major constitutional and political debate. The Chief Minister later criticised the Governor on the floor of the house for skipping certain sections of the address, asserting that the government stood by the content. The Lok Bhavan, in response, maintained that the omitted portions contained factual inaccuracies and that the government had assured corrections would be made. The disagreement has since escalated, with the Governor formally seeking clarification. As part of this, Lok Bhavan has written to the Assembly Speaker requesting the text and video footage of the speech delivered by the Chief Minister after the policy address. While the Republic Day ceremony proceeded smoothly on the ground, the Governor’s decision not to read the prepared speech underscored the continuing tension between the constitutional head of the state and the elected government. Incidentally, it was Vijayan who received Arlekar when he came to the Central stadium here, the venue of the parade. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 08:06 PM IST | Thiruvananthapuram | IANSPrime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on Monday praised India’s security forces and shared glimpses from the 77th Republic Day parade, calling them the “pride of the nation”. In a post on X, PM Modi said the Republic Day parade reflected the strengthening capabilities of India’s armed forces. “The Republic Day parade offered a glimpse into the strengthening capabilities of India’s security forces. Our forces are truly our pride,” he said. A vivid display of India’s cultural mosaic unfolded at Kartavya Path earlier today. The Republic Day parade celebrated India’s cultural diversity, with vibrant performances and tableaux. pic.twitter.com/SmyTgiUJcp — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 26, 2026 The Indian Air Force (IAF) put up a spectacular flying display at Kartavya Path, featuring several formations including Operation Sindoor, Arjan, Varuna, Vajraang and Vijay. A total of 29 aircraft took part in the flypast, comprising 16 fighter jets, four transport aircraft and nine helicopters, operating from five different air bases, news agency ANI reported. One of the highlights was the ‘Vajraang’ formation, flown by six Rafale fighter aircraft. The high-precision formation showcased air power, operational readiness and strategic capability through tight and dynamic manoeuvres. Republic Day 2026: PM Modi, President Murmu lead nationwide celebrations A Rafale aircraft also performed the ‘Vertical Charlie’ manoeuvre, flying in at a speed of 900 kmph at an altitude of 300 metres above ground level over the water channel north of Rajpath. As it approached the dais, the aircraft pulled up sharply, performing multiple rolls and demonstrating exceptional thrust, power and pilot skill, drawing applause from spectators. The IAF also showcased a special Sindoor formation, comprising two Rafales, two MiG-29s, two Su-30s and one Jaguar in a spearhead formation. The display was dedicated to the Air Force’s role in Operation Sindoor, the four-day confrontation in early May following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. The operation underlined the IAF’s ability to decisively shape military outcomes through speed, precision and seamless jointness. Guided by the principle of ‘Train Like We Fight’, the Air Force strengthened inter-service cooperation, rapidly integrated new systems and weapons, and maintained high operational readiness through robust logistics, maintenance and indigenisation efforts. Republic Day celebrations were also held across the country. In the Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Army personnel unfurled the national flag to mark the occasion. The Beating Retreat ceremony was also observed at the Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar, Punjab. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial at India Gate. He was accompanied by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi. President Droupadi Murmu presided over the main Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path. The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, attended the event as chief guests. Police and paramilitary contingents also marched along Kartavya Path during the ceremonial parade, highlighting the role of central forces in internal security and border management. India marked its 77th Republic Day on January 26, commemorating the adoption of the Constitution and showcasing the nation’s rich cultural and military heritage. (With ANI inputs)
26 January,2026 07:41 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe United States and India share a historic bond as the world's oldest and largest democracies, US President Donald Trump said on Monday as he greeted India on its 77th Republic Day celebrations. Trump's greetings came amid continuing strain in ties between the two countries over a range of issues, including Washington's policies on trade and tariffs. "On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of India as you celebrate your 77th Republic Day," the US president said. "The United States and India share a historic bond as the world's oldest and largest democracies," he added. Trump's message was put out on social media by the US embassy in New Delhi. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also extended greetings to India on the occasion of the Republic Day and said the two nations share a "historic bond". "From our close cooperation on defense, energy, critical minerals, and emerging technologies to our multi-layered engagement through the Quad, the US-India relationship delivers real results for our two countries and for the Indo-Pacific region," he said. "I look forward to working together to advance our shared objectives in the year ahead," Rubio said in a statement. US ambassador to India Sergio Gor also greeted India after attending the Republic Day celebrations at the Kartavya Path. "Happy Republic Day, India! Honored to attend the Republic Day Parade for the first time, a celebration of India's Constitution and democratic spirit. Thrilled to see the US-made aircraft soaring in the Indian sky, a powerful symbol of the strength of the US-India strategic partnership," he said. US-origin transport aircraft C-130J and Apache helicopters were among the aerial platforms that figured in the parade. The India-US ties witnessed a major downturn after President Donald Trump slapped a whopping 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods, including a 25 per cent punitive levy over Russian oil purchases. Both sides have held multiple rounds of negotiations last year to firm up the proposed bilateral trade deal. However, it could not be sealed yet, largely in view of Washington's demands to open up India's farm and dairy sectors. Apart from the tariff issue, the relations came under strain on a number of other issues that included US President Donald Trump's claim of ending the India-Pakistan conflict in May last year and Washington's new immigration policy. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 06:54 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIDespite a challenging situation in the wake of recent snowfall, the security forces on Monday extended the ongoing combing operation in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district following a fresh gunfight the previous night, officials said. The encounter took place in the snow-bound Janseer-Kandiwar forest area of Chatroo around 10.20 pm on Sunday after one of the security search parties comprising of Army and police observed the movement of terrorists, they said. The officials said the gunfight between the two sides continued for quite some time but the terrorists, believed to be two or three, managed their escape. This was the third encounter in the Chatroo belt of the hilly district over the past week, amid a massive operation for holed up terrorists linked to the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit. On January 18, a fierce gunbattle in Sonnar village near Mandral-Singhpora left a paratrooper dead and seven other personnel injured. Although the terrorists managed to escape, utilising thick vegetation and the challenging terrain, they were intercepted a few kilometres away from the site of the first encounter on January 22. However, the success again eluded the forces but they continued with their operation even as the area witnessed over two feet of snowfall on Friday. The officials said Army helicopters were seen hovering over the scene of the fresh encounter and adjoining areas to keep surveillance as various search parties were fanned out in different directions to track down and neutralise the terrorists. The area of operation was expanded to new areas along the Kishtwar-Sinthan road and the army has also deployed unmanned aerial vehicles and drones besides the sniffer dogs unit, they said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 06:46 PM IST | Jammu | PTIRepublic Day is an occasion to reaffirm India's commitment to protecting and promoting its national flag and constitutional values as well as the country's ancient and eternal spiritual essence, RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale said on Monday. After hoisting the national flag at the RSS office here, he also exhorted people to pledge to uphold the eternal spiritual values of India in their lives, fulfil their civic duties and abide by national duty. The RSS second-in-command also appealed to the people to cultivate love and compassion for society as well as affection and empathy for the vulnerable people, and dedicate themselves to serving them in order to protect the Republic of India. "We Indians are extremely happy because we are living proudly as citizens of our glorious and vibrant republic. This is a very sacred day for us," Hosabale said, addressing an event organised to celebrate the Republic Day at Keshav Kunj here. "Today is the day to reaffirm our commitment to continuously protect and promote India's national flag, constitutional values, and the country's ancient and eternal spiritual essence," he added. Hosabale said that protecting the Constitution and the Tricolour is a national duty because they are laid on the foundation of truth and righteousness. "Today, we must resolve to fulfil our national duty by upholding India's timeless spiritual ideals in our lives. Protecting our Constitution, safeguarding India's unity, and securing India's borders are our paramount national duties," he added. Hosabale said that the Indian Army, security forces, police and all types of social and religious institutions run by the people have kept the Republic of India safe and secure. "They are also preserving and protecting the country's ancient heritage with "unwavering dedication to duty", he said. "Therefore, to protect the Republic of India, we must constantly strive, in every moment and in every aspect of our lives, to cultivate love and compassion for society, affection and empathy for our vulnerable people, and to serve them and contribute to the development of life in every region and every dimension of India. "To protect the Republic of India, we must cultivate love and compassion for society, affection and empathy for our vulnerable people, and dedicate ourselves to serving them. We must strive every moment, in every aspect of life, to develop every region and every dimension of India," he said. He added that the volunteers of the RSS have been practising this 'sadhna' for the past 100 years defending the republic, serving Indian society and moving forward by remembering and drawing inspiration from Bharat's 'Rashtra Dharma'. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the event, Hosabale lauded the government for playing 'Vande Mataram' during the Republic Day celebrations, saying, "It is our national song. Naturally, those who led India's freedom movement drew inspiration from Vande Mataram and moved forward." "Therefore, every line, every word of Vande Mataram is an inspiration for every generation of Indians to work for the country. That is why the government's decision to remind everyone of this during such a special parade is commendable," he said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
26 January,2026 06:33 PM IST | New Delhi | PTIRights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG) Director Suhas Chakma has cautioned Bangladesh National Party (BNP) President Tarique Zia that the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) could face serious unrest if his proposal to end quota provisions for hill tribes is implemented. In a formal communication addressed to Zia, Chakma expressed concern over statements made by the BNP chief during an interaction at Chittagong University, he Zia reportedly advocated for “equal rights (sama adhikar)" for all citizens and declared that there would be no special quota for indigenous communities in Chittagong Hill Tracts. Zia also stated that hill tribes should be recognised solely as Bangladeshis and not as “indigenous peoples”. Chakma further argued that the principle of equal rights is not absolute and must account for the vulnerabilities of marginalised communities. He noted that both the Constitution of Bangladesh and international human rights law provide for affirmative action and positive discrimination to ensure substantive equality. Chakma cited Article 29(3) of the Bangladesh Constitution, which allows reservations in public employment for backward groups, and Article 1(4) of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, ratified by Bangladesh, which permits special measures for disadvantaged communities. Referring to domestic legislation, Chakma also pointed out that the Income Tax Act, 2023, published in the official gazette on October 16, 2025, which recognises the 'adivasis' of the Chittagong Hill Tracts as “indigenous hillmen”. 'Indigenous communities remain socially, economically disadvantaged in Bangladesh' Highlighting demographic realities, Chakma said that indigenous communities form a small fraction of Bangladesh’s population and remain socially and economically disadvantaged. He warned that the removal of quotas and special legal protections could further marginalise these communities. The RPAG chairman further stated, “If indigenous peoples are denied access to opportunities due to the absence of reservation and their identities are eroded through the repeal of protective laws, the Chittagong Hill Tracts could witness rebellion as a last resort.” The warning comes ahead of Bangladesh’s national elections scheduled for February 12, 2026, amid heightened political discourse around governance, rights, and constitutional equality.
26 January,2026 06:23 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentA forest department employee interrupted the Republic Day 2026 speech of Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan in Nashik on Monday for not mentioning Dr BR Ambedkar, following which the minister apologised, calling it an unintentional omission, news agency PTI reported. The state water resources minister was addressing the official Republic Day 2026 function after unfurling the national flag when Madhvi Jadhav, a staffer from the forest department, interrupted the speech and sought an explanation for the absence of Ambedkar’s name. Police later intervened and detained Jadhav for a brief period, PTI reported. “Girish Mahajan did not take Dr Ambedkar’s name in his speech, whereas the names of people who were not responsible for democracy and the Constitution were repeatedly mentioned. Why was the name of the person who truly deserves the honour of Republic Day not mentioned?” Jadhav asked. She accused the minister of attempting to erase Ambedkar’s identity, PTI reported. “People like me have secured government jobs because of Babasaheb Ambedkar. I will not apologise,” she said, daring the administration to suspend her. Responding to the incident later, Mahajan said the omission was purely inadvertent. “I raised slogans like ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai’. I did not intend to skip Dr Ambedkar’s name. I always hail him in my speeches. Still, I apologise for the omission,” the minister said. Member of Parliament from Mumbai and city Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the incident, alleging that it reflected the party’s mindset. “Republic Day is a celebration of the Constitution, and forgetting its makers shows the BJP’s anti-Maharashtra mindset,” she said, adding that the objection raised by Jadhav echoed the sentiments of every self-respecting Marathi citizen. Alleging that the ruling party was driven only by power and money, she said it had no respect for the leaders who shaped Maharashtra and the nation. “The people of Maharashtra will never forgive ministers who are intoxicated with power,” she said in a statement. Republic Day 2026: India progressing rapidly on strength of Constitution, says Fadnavis India is moving swiftly on the foundation of its Constitution and democratic values and is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Monday. Addressing the main Republic Day function at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Ground in Dadar, Fadnavis highlighted Maharashtra’s recent economic achievements, saying the state signed investment agreements worth Rs 30 lakh crore at the World Economic Forum in Davos, further strengthening its role as a key driver of India’s economy. “India is rapidly progressing on the strength of its Constitution and democratic values and is on course to become the world’s third-largest economy. The MoUs signed at the recent World Economic Forum would strengthen the state’s role as the backbone of the country’s economy,” he said. After unfurling the national flag, Fadnavis asserted that Maharashtra will continue to remain dynamic and keep moving forward with the strength of the Constitution. The chief minister paid tribute to Dr B R Ambedkar and the members of the Constituent Assembly, thanking them for framing the Constitution. “The values of freedom, equality, and brotherhood are an integral part of Indian culture and are clearly reflected in the Constitution,” he said. Fadnavis further added that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is now recognised as a significant global power and economy—a development made possible by the democratic system enshrined in the Constitution. (With PTI inputs)
26 January,2026 05:15 PM IST | Nashik | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1769431117144_d.png "President Droupadi Murmu. File Pic")
-1769426256195_d.png "Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar. Pic/X")
-1769424017752_d.png "President Donald Trump greets India on 77th Republic Day calling US-India bond 'historic'. File Pic")
-1769422078507_d.png "Kishtwar operation expanded with drones, helicopters, and sniffer dogs to hunt down terrorists. Representational pic")
-1769420716478_d.png "Dattatreya Hosabale appealed to citizens to fulfil their civic duties and abide by national duty. File Pic")
