Maharashtra Approves Maratha Quota Bill, Haldwani Curfew

The Maharashtra government, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has approved a controversial bill granting a 10% reservation to the Maratha community in education and government jobs.
This move pushes the total reservation in the state beyond the Supreme Court-mandated limit of 50%, sparking concerns about its legality and potential challenges.
This marks the third time in a decade that Maharashtra has attempted to introduce legislation for Maratha reservations, highlighting the long-standing demands of the community and the complexities of addressing caste-based inequalities.

The curfew imposed in the riot-hit Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani, Uttarakhand, has been lifted after 12 days.
The curfew was implemented following violence that erupted over the demolition of an “illegal” madrasa.
While normalcy gradually returns to the region, questions remain about the long-term solutions to address underlying tensions and ensure peaceful coexistence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu today to unveil a slew of development projects worth over Rs 32,000 crore.
These projects span various sectors including education, railways, aviation, and roads, aiming to boost infrastructure and economic growth in the region.
The visit comes amidst ongoing efforts to bolster development and promote peace in Jammu and Kashmir, following the abrogation of Article 370.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is expected to join the Bharat Jodo Yatra, led by her brother Rahul Gandhi, in Uttar Pradesh on February 24th.
The Yatra, currently traversing through the state, serves as a crucial campaign tool for the Congress ahead of upcoming elections.
Her presence is likely to garner further attention and support for the Yatra, aiming to galvanize the party base and highlight key issues ahead of the polls.

Union Minister Anurag Singh Thakur has condemned the arrest of a journalist associated with Republic TV in West Bengal, accusing the state government of stifling press freedom.
He claims this incident exemplifies a broader pattern of suppressing dissent and targeting journalists under the Mamata Banerjee administration.
The arrest has sparked debates about media freedom and the role of the government in ensuring a free and fair press environment.

The Supreme Court has adjourned the hearing on the Hijab ban in Karnataka colleges to February 23rd.
India and the United States are set to begin their annual joint military exercise, Yudh Abhyas 2024, in Uttarakhand.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the schedule for the 2027 Men’s Cricket World Cup, to be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

Maharashtra Approves Maratha Quota Bill, Haldwani Curfew Lifted, PM Modi Visits Jammu: Top News Roundup