In a significant day of developments across the legal, geopolitical, and national security spectrums, several key stories emerged on Monday. From a survivor's renewed fight for justice in the Unnao rape case to heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait and a major boost for India's defence capabilities, here are the top stories shaping the news.
Unnao Rape Survivor Welcomes SC Intervention, Vows to Fight for Death Penalty
The survivor of the Unnao rape case expressed her determination to secure the death penalty for convicted and expelled BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar. Her resolve came after the Supreme Court stayed a Delhi High Court order that had suspended Sengar's life sentence and granted him bail in the 2017 case.
Speaking to reporters, the survivor stated she was "very happy" with the Supreme Court's decision and reaffirmed her faith in the apex court. "I will ensure that he is given a death sentence," she asserted. Meanwhile, her mother appealed for enhanced security for the family and their legal team in light of the ongoing legal battle.
China Launches Large-Scale Military Drills as Warning to Taiwan
In a move that escalated regional tensions, China initiated extensive live-fire military exercises around Taiwan on Monday. The drills, involving warships, fighter jets, bombers, and drones, were characterized by Beijing as a stern warning to pro-independence forces on the island and to foreign powers interfering in the matter.
Taiwan's defence ministry reported detecting 89 Chinese aircraft and drones, with 67 entering its designated response zone. The People's Liberation Army dubbed the exercises "Justice Mission 2025," which include live-fire training, simulated strikes, and blockade drills expected to continue into Tuesday. In response, Taipei placed its military on high alert, pledging to defend its democracy.
Centre Greenlights Massive Rs 79,000 Crore Defence Procurement
In a major push to enhance the operational readiness of the armed forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved an Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for procurements worth approximately Rs 79,000 crore. This clearance covers a wide array of advanced equipment for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The approved acquisitions are set to include loiter munition systems, lightweight radars, long-range guided rocket ammunition for the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher System (MRLS), and integrated drone detection and interdiction systems for the Indian Army.
Other Key Developments of the Day
Environment Minister on Aravalli Row: Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to stay its earlier order on the controversial "new definition" of the Aravalli range. He emphasized the government's commitment, through the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, to protect and restore the ecologically sensitive hills, noting that the ban on new mining leases and renewals remains intact.
Lalit Modi Issues Apology: Former IPL chairman Lalit Modi issued a public apology for his recent social media remarks. This came after a video featuring him with fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya sparked a backlash. Modi claimed his comments were "misconstrued" and were never intended to offend anyone, particularly the Indian government. The apology followed an Instagram clip where he humorously referred to himself and Mallya as "the two biggest fugitives of India."
