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Russia on Monday openly accused the United States of attempting to block India and other partner countries from purchasing Russian oil, alleging that sanctions, tariffs and indirect pressure are being used to force buyers towards costlier American energy exports. The charge was made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who claimed that Washington was seeking to deny countries access to what he described as &ldquo;cheap and affordable&rdquo; Russian energy.
Within hours, New Delhi responded firmly but cautiously. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri underlined that India&rsquo;s energy decisions are guided solely by national interest, stressing that availability, affordability and reliability of supply remain the core principles of India&rsquo;s policy. He reiterated that as a net importer, and a developing economy with 1.4 billion people, India cannot afford energy shocks that fuel inflation and hurt consumers.
The exchange came amid reports of a possible recalibration in India&rsquo;s Russian oil imports following the finalisation of a broader trade understanding with the United States and claims by President Donald Trump that India had stopped buying Russian oil and gas.
Lavrov&rsquo;s Allegation and Moscow&rsquo;s Anxiety
Lavrov&rsquo;s remarks were unusually blunt. He alleged that the US was waging an economic campaign to squeeze Russian energy out of global markets while pushing its own liquefied natural gas at higher prices. From Moscow&rsquo;s perspective, India&rsquo;s growing caution is not just a commercial adjustment but part of a larger geopolitical squeeze.
For Russia, the concern is real. Since Europe sharply cut Russian oil and gas purchases, India emerged as one of Moscow&rsquo;s most important customers, offering both volume and legitimacy in global markets.
MEA&rsquo;s Stand: National Interest First
India&rsquo;s response avoided confrontation. Misri did not deny market changes, but framed energy sourcing as a constantly evolving calculation driven by price, supply stability and logistics. The message was clear: India will buy where the deal works, not where political expectations point.
This position is consistent with India&rsquo;s long-held stance that energy security cannot be hostage to global rivalries, particularly when domestic inflation and growth are at stake.
How Russia Became India&rsquo;s Top Supplier
Before 2022, Russian oil made up less than 2 per cent of India&rsquo;s crude imports. After sanctions reshaped global trade, that figure surged dramatically. Between 2022 and 2024, Russia supplied roughly 35&ndash;40 per cent of India&rsquo;s crude oil, at times touching 1.8 million barrels per day.
Discounts were the key driver. Indian refiners reportedly saved billions of dollars as Russian crude traded well below global benchmarks, cushioning fuel prices at home during a period of global volatility.
If India Cuts Back, What Happens to Russia?
Energy revenues account for roughly a third of Russia&rsquo;s federal budget. With Europe largely closed off, India has been a critical outlet. A sustained reduction in Indian purchases would not cripple Russia, but it would narrow Moscow&rsquo;s options and increase its dependence on China, which already commands strong bargaining power.
Even a partial cut could shave several billion dollars off Russia&rsquo;s annual export earnings, adding pressure to an economy already operating under sanctions.
Cheap Fuel Versus Strategic Balance
The dilemma for India mirrors a high-stakes India&ndash;Pakistan contest, where skill alone does not decide the outcome; context, pressure and external noise matter just as much. Cheap Russian oil served India well when inflation was the biggest threat. Today, sanctions risk, shipping complications and diplomatic calculations are weighing heavier.
US LNG and Middle Eastern oil are more expensive, but come with fewer political tripwires.
The Road Ahead
India is unlikely to abruptly abandon Russian energy. A calibrated reduction, rather than a clean break, appears the most probable path. This keeps prices competitive while signalling strategic flexibility to Washington.
For Russia, the message is sobering but not terminal. India remains a partner, just no longer an assured one. For New Delhi, &ldquo;national interest&rdquo; continues to mean room to manoeuvre &nbsp;even if that means rewriting the playbook mid-match.

MEA says energy choices driven by price and supply, Moscow sees US pushback

Lavrov Flags Pressure as India Defends Oil Policy

Four Indian nationals were injured in a knife attack at a university in the Russian city of Ufa, the Indian Embassy in Moscow confirmed on Saturday. The victims were among at least six people hurt during the violent incident at the State Medical University in Bashkortostan.
Reports indicate that a teenager entered the campus and began attacking students with a knife, triggering panic across the premises. While attempting to detain the suspect, two police officers were also stabbed. The attacker reportedly injured himself during the confrontation.
Health authorities stated that several victims are undergoing treatment, with one person said to be in critical condition.
The suspect, identified as a 15-year-old, has been admitted to a children&rsquo;s hospital and is believed to be in serious condition. Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the motive behind the assault.
Preliminary reports suggest the accused may have had links to a banned neo-Nazi group known as NS/WP. During the attack, he allegedly shouted nationalist slogans referencing the Holocaust, and investigators are examining evidence found at the scene.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over the safety of Indian students overseas. Government data presented in Parliament earlier this week showed multiple fatalities involving Indian students abroad between 2018 and 2025, including the highest number in Canada, followed by the United States and Australia.
Indian authorities continue to monitor cases involving citizens overseas, with diplomatic missions coordinating with host nations to ensure thorough investigations and accountability in violent incidents.

Teen attacker storms Ufa university, stabs students; one victim remains critical

4 Indian Students Injured in Russia Knife Attack

Russia has indicated it sees no sign that India plans to end oil imports from Moscow, days after US President Donald Trump claimed such a move was part of the newly finalised India-US trade agreement.
Trump announced the deal on February 2, confirming that reciprocal tariffs on Indian imports would be reduced to 18% following months of negotiations. He also asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to halt energy trade with Russia. While New Delhi acknowledged the tariff cuts, it has not commented on the claim regarding oil purchases.
Russia&rsquo;s foreign ministry responded by expressing confidence in the continuity of energy cooperation with India. Moscow maintained that resource trade benefits both nations and plays a stabilising role in global energy markets, signalling readiness to continue close collaboration.
At the same time, the Kremlin adopted a pragmatic tone, noting that India has always sourced oil from multiple countries and remains free to choose its suppliers. Officials added that they have received no formal communication from India suggesting a shift away from Russian crude.
India&rsquo;s imports of discounted Russian oil have previously been a point of friction with Washington. Last year, the US raised tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, partly citing the ongoing energy trade between New Delhi and Moscow.
Trump has argued that reducing India&rsquo;s reliance on Russian energy could help pressure Moscow amid the Ukraine war. The latest trade pact, however, has rolled back tariffs and removed additional penalties, signalling a reset in economic ties between India and the US.
With India yet to clarify its position on the oil issue, the situation underscores the delicate balance New Delhi maintains between strategic autonomy and deepening partnerships with Western economies.
&nbsp;

Moscow signals confidence in energy ties after Trump’s claim on deal

Russia doubts India will halt oil trade with US

For millions of people, satellites are invisible helpers keeping phones connected, planes on course, families online during wars and disasters. But a new intelligence assessment has sparked fears that the space above us could soon turn hostile.
Western intelligence agencies believe Russia is exploring a weapon designed not to hit one satellite, but to poison entire orbits. The idea is chilling in its simplicity: release clouds of tiny metal pellets into space, creating a moving minefield that could cripple satellite networks like Elon Musk&rsquo;s Starlink.
For ordinary people, the impact would be immediate and deeply personal. Internet connections could fail without warning. Emergency communications could go dark. Navigation systems guiding aircraft, ships, and even ambulances could be disrupted. What happens in orbit would not stay in orbit.
Experts warn such an attack would not discriminate. The debris could damage civilian, military, and commercial satellites alike, including Russia&rsquo;s own. Once unleashed, the chaos could spiral beyond control, turning low Earth orbit into a dangerous junkyard for years.
Some analysts believe the threat itself may be the weapon, a warning shot meant to intimidate rivals rather than be used outright. But even the possibility has rattled space agencies and governments, underscoring how fragile modern life has become when so much depends on technology circling silently above our heads.
As space becomes the next frontier of conflict, the question facing the world is stark: who protects the sky, when breaking it could hurt everyone?

Feared Russian anti-satellite plan raises alarms over internet, safety, and life on Earth

NATO Flags Russian Threat to Starlink

A senior Russian military officer was killed in a car bombing in Moscow, heightening security concerns as the war in Ukraine continues alongside fragile diplomatic efforts.
Authorities confirmed that Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov, who headed the army&rsquo;s operational training directorate under the Russian General Staff, died when an explosive device detonated in his vehicle. The blast occurred in Moscow and killed him at the scene.
Investigators said the explosion was caused by a car bomb and that several possible motives were being examined. Among the lines of inquiry is suspected involvement of Ukrainian special services, though no official conclusion has been announced.
The killing comes as officials in Russia signal progress in discussions around a US-backed initiative aimed at ending the prolonged conflict in Ukraine. A Kremlin spokesperson described recent talks as constructive, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said negotiations were moving quickly.
Despite diplomatic momentum, violence on the ground has continued. A Russian missile strike hit port facilities in Odesa, killing eight people and injuring at least 27, underscoring the stark contrast between talks and ongoing hostilities.

Car Bomb Kills Russian General in Moscow Blast

Senior army officer dies in Moscow car bombing as Ukraine war tensions intensify

Russian President Vladimir Putin has sharply criticised Western leaders for what he described as &ldquo;hysteria&rdquo; over an alleged Russian threat to Europe, dismissing calls to prepare for a major war as deliberate fear-mongering. Responding to recent remarks by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Putin accused the West of misleading its own citizens to justify military expansion.
Rutte, speaking in Berlin last week, warned that NATO must be prepared for a conflict &ldquo;on the scale our grandparents or great-grandparents endured,&rdquo; urging alliance members to accelerate defence spending and weapons production. Putin rejected the warning outright, calling it &ldquo;a lie, nonsense, pure nonsense about some imaginary Russian threat to European countries,&rdquo; and said such rhetoric was being used to manipulate public opinion.
The Russian leader also issued a stern warning on Ukraine, stating that Moscow prefers a diplomatic resolution but will pursue its territorial objectives by force if peace talks fail. &ldquo;The goals of the special military operation will certainly be achieved,&rdquo; Putin said, adding that refusal to engage in &ldquo;substantive discussions&rdquo; would lead to further military action.
His remarks come as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that discussions are underway with the United States on a potential roadmap to end the war. However, with Russia insisting it will not withdraw from occupied territories and pressure mounting on Kyiv to consider concessions, the diplomatic path forward remains deeply uncertain.

Russian President rejects NATO’s warning, signals hard line on Ukraine

Putin Calls NATO War Talk ‘Hysteria’

Russian President Vladimir Putin has delivered one of his most forceful warnings to date, declaring that Russia is prepared for a war with Europe &ldquo;if Europe wants one and strikes first.&rdquo; The declaration came in Moscow during a major economic forum, only moments before his scheduled meeting with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, sent by President Donald Trump to advance negotiations on ending the nearly four-year conflict in Ukraine.
Putin insisted that Moscow has no intention of initiating a conflict, but he underscored that Russia is &ldquo;ready right now&rdquo; should any European state choose aggression. His comments land at a sensitive moment as Washington intensifies efforts to reset the Ukraine peace process, signalling a fresh diplomatic phase that appears to give greater weight to U.S. mediation over European positions.
According to Putin, several European governments are actively hindering progress by attempting to alter U.S.-drafted proposals in ways he argues are &ldquo;absolutely unacceptable&rdquo; to Moscow. He claims these governments &ldquo;have no peaceful agenda&rdquo; and are instead &ldquo;on the side of war&rdquo;, pointing to Europe&rsquo;s military support for Ukraine and its insistence on preserving Kyiv&rsquo;s territorial claims without concessions.
The warning was paired with a broader accusation that Europe is sabotaging U.S.-led peace efforts, particularly by pushing changes that&mdash;according to Putin&mdash;seek to &ldquo;block the entire peace process.&rdquo; His comments reflect Russia&rsquo;s view that Washington&rsquo;s latest diplomatic intervention may offer an opening, while Europe&rsquo;s tougher stance risks derailing potential settlement terms.
The timing of Putin&rsquo;s remarks is critical. U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are in Moscow for high-stakes talks on a proposed peace framework reportedly refined through discussions between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Kyiv has described the working document as &ldquo;finalised&rdquo; but in need of verification.
Meanwhile, the battlefield remains unstable. Russia has recently claimed progress near Pokrovsk, a move denied by Ukraine, but it signals that fighting remains intense and could complicate negotiations. Putin linked his warning to alleged Ukrainian and Western-backed attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, stressing that Moscow may retaliate against ports and ships aiding Ukraine&mdash;a reminder of Russia&rsquo;s willingness to expand pressure beyond the front lines.
This escalation in rhetoric stands in contrast to Putin&rsquo;s previous remarks just days earlier, when he dismissed fears of a Russian attack on Europe as &ldquo;ridiculous.&rdquo; Then, he had claimed he was ready to provide written assurances that Russia had no intention of attacking European states, framing such concerns as political theatrics meant to justify higher defence spending.
European leaders, however, have been preparing for the opposite scenario. Some NATO states, including France and several Baltic nations, have increased military readiness and issued stark warnings about Russia&rsquo;s potential threat within the next few years.
With the U.S. now pushing more assertively for a deal, and Europe insisting on stricter conditions, Putin&rsquo;s statement appears designed to reshape the diplomatic battlefield as much as the military one. His message is clear: if Europe escalates, Russia is &ldquo;prepared immediately&rdquo;, and the consequences could leave &ldquo;no one left to negotiate with.&rdquo;
In the days ahead, attention will turn to whether Washington can bridge the widening divide between Moscow&rsquo;s demands and Europe&rsquo;s insistence on safeguarding Ukraine&rsquo;s sovereignty. For now, Putin&rsquo;s threat serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes surrounding the peace process&mdash;and the mounting pressure on all sides.
<hr data-start="4134" data-end="4137">

Putin signals Russia is prepared to fight if Europe initiates conflict

Putin Warns Europe of War Readiness

Russia&rsquo;s human spaceflight programme has suffered a significant setback after a key launch pad at the Baikonur Cosmodrome was severely damaged during the Soyuz MS-28 mission to the International Space Station (ISS).
The Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft, carrying two Russian cosmonauts and one NASA astronaut, launched and docked with the ISS on November 27. 
While the mission itself was successful, post-launch inspections revealed extensive structural damage on the ground. 
A movable service cabin, an essential crew-access structure, collapsed into the exhaust trench beneath the pad during liftoff.
The damaged cabin is critical not only for crewed Soyuz launches but also for Progress cargo missions. 
As Baikonur remains Russia&rsquo;s sole operational site for sending humans into orbit, the incident poses an immediate challenge to the continuity of crewed flights.
Roscosmos confirmed that &ldquo;multiple components&rdquo; of the launch infrastructure had been affected and said repair work would begin immediately. 
The agency indicated that spare parts were available, though space experts warn that full restoration could take anywhere from several months to two years, depending on the extent of the structural damage and mandatory safety assessments.
A prolonged outage at Baikonur would effectively halt Russia&rsquo;s ability to conduct crewed launches for the first time in decades. 
The launch complex, in continuous use since the 1960s, now faces one of the most serious disruptions in its operational history.
If repairs are lengthy, upcoming Soyuz and Progress missions may face delays or indefinite postponements. 
The situation could prompt Moscow to accelerate development at the Vostochny Cosmodrome or explore international alternatives to maintain access to low-Earth orbit.
Roscosmos confirmed that the crew currently aboard the ISS is safe.
The incident underscores the vulnerabilities of aging Soviet-era infrastructure and highlights the geopolitical sensitivities surrounding Baikonur, which is located in Kazakhstan but remains central to Russia&rsquo;s space operations.
&mdash;IANS

Damaged Baikonur launch pad after Soyuz liftoff

Damage to Baikonur pad raises fears of major delays in Russia’s crewed space missions

Baikonur Pad Damaged In Soyuz Launch

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has sharply criticized European nations, saying they repeatedly missed opportunities to contribute meaningfully to resolving the Ukraine conflict. Speaking at a press conference in Moscow, he stated that whenever progress was made or agreements were drafted, they were later broken, largely due to Europe&rsquo;s inaction.
Lavrov argued that since 2014 Europe has &ldquo;completely failed&rdquo; in its responsibilities, yet is now insisting that nothing should proceed without its involvement. According to him, countries like France and Germany have lost the credibility needed to act as mediators, especially after the collapse of the Minsk process.
He emphasized that Russia values the mediation efforts of Belarus and Turkey and noted Hungary&rsquo;s willingness to host a potential summit between Russia and the United States. Lavrov added that the United States remains the only Western nation actively pursuing new pathways to resolve the crisis.
The Russian minister confirmed that Moscow has received a new 28-point peace proposal from the Trump administration through unofficial channels. He said Russia is prepared to discuss the plan, though several aspects still require clarification. An official version of the proposal has not yet been shared with Moscow. [Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

Lavrov Says Europe Failed on Ukraine Crisis

Russian FM claims Europe missed its chances since 2014 and is no longer fit to mediate

Russian forces have claimed the capture of the strategic city of Kupyansk in Ukraine&rsquo;s Kharkiv region, marking a significant shift along the eastern front, according to a statement by Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces.
Gerasimov said units from the Zapad (West) group had taken control of Kupyansk and were continuing operations to eliminate Ukrainian troops reportedly trapped on the left bank of the Oskol River. 
He also reported advances in Krasnoarmeysk, stating that &ldquo;over 75% of its territory is now under Russian control.&rdquo;
Kupyansk, considered a crucial logistics hub and defensive stronghold for Ukrainian forces, was recaptured by Kyiv in September 2022 after being seized by Russia on the first day of its offensive. 
However, recent months have seen Ukrainian forces pushed back along several sectors of the frontline.
Since early November, Russian troops have captured 13 villages, six in the Dnipropetrovsk region and seven in the Zaporizhzhia region, further consolidating their territorial gains in the east.

Russian troops advance through captured Ukrainian city

Russian forces tighten grip on Kharkiv front after claiming Kupyansk takeover

Russia Claims Capture Of Key Kupyansk City

Gujarat Congress Internal Dispute: The countdown to the 2027 Gujarat Assembly election has already begun. The 2029 Lok Sabha election is not far away either. The Congress high command is making claims of a change of power in Gujarat. Rahul Gandhi is talking about rebuilding the Gujarat Congress from the ground up. There is talk of removing the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; and putting the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; on the field. But looking at the current state of the Gujarat Congress, one question cannot be avoided: before entering the race, will the Congress even be able to get its own team to stand in one line? Before declaring war against the BJP, the Congress is caught in a political battle within its own house. The question is bitter, but necessary: if a party cannot create unity within its own organisation, how does it expect to take on the BJP&rsquo;s formidable organisational machinery in Gujarat?
Leaders Changed, But Why Didn&rsquo;t the Problem? Keeping the 2027 Assembly and 2029 Lok Sabha elections in mind, the Congress has begun making changes to its Gujarat organisation. The high command wanted to remove the old and inactive structure and bring forward leaders with the ability to fight elections. But when a party repeatedly needs to change its state in-charge, the question becomes bigger than the capability of the individual holding the post. Mukul Wasnik was replaced by Randeep Singh Surjewala as Gujarat Congress in-charge. With the new in-charge came expectations of a new direction, a new strategy and greater discipline within the organisation. Yet, barely had Surjewala taken charge when a controversy erupted within Banaskantha Congress over the organisational structure. That is where the Congress&rsquo;s real trouble begins.
A Symptom of Congress&rsquo;s Organisational Illness Banaskantha is not an ordinary constituency. It is the only Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat that the Congress won in the 2024 general election. That makes it the biggest symbol of political hope for the Congress in Gujarat. So when differences emerge over organisational posts and responsibilities in precisely this constituency, when questions are raised over decisions taken by the state leadership, and when the district organisation itself becomes a subject of controversy, this cannot simply be dismissed as a &lsquo;local dispute&rsquo;. It is a symptom of the Congress&rsquo;s organisational illness. And if this illness continues until 2027, the BJP will be the direct beneficiary. The Congress needs to understand one basic reality: elections are not won through posters, press conferences and speeches by big leaders. Elections are won at the booth. The BJP&rsquo;s organisational machinery is active right down to the booth level. To challenge it, the Congress needs a strong network of workers, clearly defined responsibilities and a united district-level organisation. But here, the very formation of the district organisation is becoming a source of controversy. So where exactly will the Congress find the strength to challenge the BJP at the booth level?
&lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; or Obstacles in Each Other&rsquo;s Way? Rahul Gandhi talks about identifying the &lsquo;lame horses&rsquo; in Gujarat and bringing the &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; to the forefront. It sounds attractive. But politics does not work that way. Simply choosing good horses does not guarantee victory in a race. The horses must run together rather than pull each other down. The direction of the race must be clear. And the coaching staff cannot be fighting among themselves. Only then can a team win. The Gujarat Congress&rsquo;s problem may not simply be about &lsquo;which leader should be promoted&rsquo;. The real problem is whether the leaders who are brought forward will actually work together. Mukul Wasnik is gone. Randeep Singh Surjewala has arrived. The state in-charge has changed. But if factionalism remains unchanged, internal power struggles remain unchanged, coordination between the district and state organisations remains weak, and organisational decisions themselves continue to trigger controversy, then what exactly is the Congress talking about when it talks of change? Changing faces will not change the Congress&rsquo;s fortunes. Its working style must change. Leadership accountability must be fixed. Factionalism must be brought under control. And above all, the party worker must be given confidence that the Congress is genuinely one team. Because if the Congress wants to fight the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other.
When Will the Political Infighting Within Gujarat Congress End? The biggest illusion for the Congress in the 2027 election would be to assume that public anger against the BJP will automatically translate into Congress votes. Politics does not work that simply. Reaching voters requires sustained ground-level work. It requires a booth-level organisation. It requires coordination among local leaders. It requires worker morale. And above all, it requires leadership running in one direction until election day. If even one of these five links is weak, the entire electoral calculation can collapse. For the Congress, this is no longer the time for experiments. It is the time for decisions. How many state in-charges will be changed? How many meetings will be held? How many times will the organisational structure be reshuffled? The question is no longer who the next Gujarat Congress in-charge will be. The real question is: when will the political infighting within the Gujarat Congress finally end? If every new in-charge is going to inherit the same old disputes, factionalism and internal resentment, then how can a new Congress emerge simply because a new face has arrived?
Will &lsquo;Race Horses&rsquo; Remain Just Another Political Slogan? If the Congress wants to win Gujarat, it must first win within its own organisation. It must win the trust of its workers. It must win the confidence of its district organisations. It must bring its leaders onto one platform. Otherwise, the Congress will lose its internal battle before its fight against the BJP has even begun. And then the talk of &lsquo;race horses&rsquo; will remain nothing more than another political slogan. The Congress has very little time left in the race for power in 2027. If it wants to take on the BJP, it must first stop its own leaders from fighting each other. Because power in Gujarat will not be won through statements from the Gandhi family. It will be won through organisational strength on the ground. The final question is simple: Is the Congress preparing to defeat the BJP, or is it still calculating whom it needs to defeat inside its own house? Want to win Gujarat? Then first, win the Gujarat Congress.

Congress has set its sights on defeating the BJP in Gujarat. But there’s a bigger battle brewing inside its own house.

Congress Wants to Defeat BJP in Gujarat, But Who Will Save Congress From Itself?

Gujarat High Court Launches Study Circle for Advocates: In a major initiative to strengthen the professional skills and legal knowledge of young advocates, the High Court of Gujarat, in collaboration with the Gujarat State Judicial Academy (GSJA), has announced the launch of a Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop) for Advocates Practicing before the High Court of Gujarat with up to 10 years of practice. The programme will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad.
Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal Announces Study Circle The initiative was announced by Gujarat High Court Chief Justice and Patron-in-Chief of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, Justice Sunita Agarwal, after the Flag Hoisting Ceremony held at the High Court Lawns on August 15. The announcement was made in the presence of Justice Bhargav D. Karia, Judge of the Gujarat High Court and President of GSJA, members of the Board of Governors of GSJA, other High Court judges, Senior Advocates and members of the Bar.
Focus on Legal Education and Professional Skills The new Study Circle is being introduced as a continuous legal learning and professional development programme for young members of the Bar. The initiative aims to enhance advocates&rsquo; understanding of legal principles, legal research, drafting and advocacy skills through direct interaction with Senior Advocates and subject experts. The programme is also expected to strengthen academic engagement between the Bench and the Bar and provide advocates with an opportunity to discuss important and evolving legal issues.
Justice Sunita Agarwal Highlights Importance of Continuous Learning Addressing the gathering, Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal highlighted the indispensable role of advocates in the administration of justice. She emphasized that continuous legal education has become increasingly important in an era of rapidly evolving jurisprudence. The Chief Justice also stressed that effective advocacy and strong legal research are essential components of a robust justice delivery system. She appreciated the efforts of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy in conceptualizing and developing the Study Circle programme.
Three Key Legal Modules in First Phase The first phase of the Study Circle will feature three major academic modules covering important areas of High Court practice. Module I will focus on the expanding contours of maintainability in writ jurisdiction under Article 226, an important area of constitutional and administrative law practice. Module II will cover the basic principles of Administrative Law and Second Appeals under Section 100 of the CPC, with particular emphasis on the Doctrine of Substantial Question of Law. Module III will focus on Criminal Law Jurisdiction, particularly the inherent powers of High Courts under Section 482 of the CrPC and Section 528 of the BNSS, including their scope, limitations and principles of judicial discipline.
Study Circle to Be Held Fortnightly The Study Circle is proposed to be conducted on a fortnightly basis, providing advocates with regular opportunities for legal learning and professional interaction. Future sessions will cover a wide range of subjects, including Constitutional Law, Writ Jurisdiction, Arbitration and Conciliation Law, Commercial Law, Public Interest Litigation, Service Law, Taxation Law, Admiralty Jurisdiction, Legal Ethics and Drafting Skills. The programme will also address contemporary legal issues that are particularly relevant to advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court.
Registration to Begin Soon Registration for the Study Circle (Symposium/Workshop Series) for Advocates Practicing in the High Court of Gujarat &ndash; Series of Academic Modules 2026 will begin shortly through the official website of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy. The programme is specifically intended for advocates practicing before the Gujarat High Court who have up to 10 years of professional practice.
Registration Fee The registration fee for the Study Circle has been fixed at ₹100 per programme, which will be paid by each participating advocate. The workshops will be conducted at the Lecture Hall of the Gujarat State Judicial Academy, High Court Campus, Ahmedabad. Advocates attending the workshops will also receive Certificates of Participation.
Major Step Towards Strengthening Justice Delivery The Gujarat High Court and Gujarat State Judicial Academy's new Study Circle is being viewed as a significant step towards professional excellence and development of the legal fraternity. By bringing young advocates, Senior Advocates and legal experts together for regular academic discussions, the initiative aims to improve legal knowledge, research and advocacy skills while strengthening the Bench-Bar relationship. The broader objective is to contribute towards a more effective and efficient justice delivery system in Gujarat.

Study Circle Launched for Advocates With Up to 10 Years of Practice

Gujarat High Court Big Move

A chilling video of the accused in the Indore MBA student murder case has sparked outrage after he was seen smiling and appearing unconcerned when questioned about the crime.
The accused, Piyush Dhanotia, was arrested for allegedly raping and murdering his 25-year-old classmate in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Police said he strangled the woman on February 10 inside his rented accommodation and later locked the room before fleeing. Her partially decomposed body was discovered days later after residents complained of a foul smell.
However, what has intensified public anger is the accused&rsquo;s demeanour. In a video that surfaced online, Dhanotia is seen smiling when reporters ask him why he committed the crime. When pressed for answers, he responded dismissively, saying that what had happened had already happened and that he would speak at the right time. Throughout the interaction, he showed no visible sign of regret.
Police officials said he admitted during interrogation that he forced the woman into sexual acts and killed her when she resisted, though he has reportedly changed his version multiple times. Investigators are also examining allegations that he circulated objectionable videos of the victim in their college WhatsApp group.
The victim&rsquo;s father has accused the accused of blackmailing his daughter with obscene images and attempting to extort money.
As the investigation continues, the accused&rsquo;s apparent lack of remorse captured on camera has become a focal point of the case, drawing sharp reactions both online and offline.
&nbsp;

Video shows MBA student murder accused laughing amid probe

Indore Murder Accused Smiles on Camera

Galgotias University has landed in controversy after showcasing a robotic dog at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 that was widely believed to be developed by its students. The robot, however, was later identified as a commercially available product made by Chinese robotics firm Unitree Robotics.
The backlash began after a video from the summit went viral, in which a university professor introduced the robot dog, named &ldquo;Orion,&rdquo; and referred to it as being developed at the institution&rsquo;s Centre of Excellence. Social media users were quick to point out that the machine closely resembled Unitree&rsquo;s quadruped robots, which are already available globally for research and industrial use.
Unitree is known for manufacturing advanced four-legged robots designed for tasks such as inspection, obstacle navigation and research applications. Its products are often compared to models developed by global robotics players.
Following the uproar, the Greater Noida-based university issued a clarification stating that it never claimed to have built the robot. It maintained that the robodog was purchased as part of its AI investment initiatives and is being used as a research and learning tool for students. Another faculty member present at the summit reiterated that the display had been misinterpreted and that there was no attempt to conceal the original manufacturer&rsquo;s branding.
Despite the clarification, sources familiar with the developments said the university was asked to vacate its pavilion at the summit amid mounting criticism. The institution, however, denied receiving any formal directive from the organisers or the ministry.
Notably, the robotic dog was removed from display shortly after the controversy escalated online.

Robodog row sparks backlash at India AI Impact Summit 2026

Galgotias Asked to Exit AI Summit

Actor Sidharth Malhotra is mourning the loss of his father, Sunil Malhotra, who passed away recently. The actor shared the news with an emotional message on social media. His wife, Kiara Advani, has now also paid a heartfelt tribute to her father-in-law.
On Wednesday, Kiara took to Instagram to share pictures from her wedding reception, where she and Sidharth were seen smiling alongside his parents. In a deeply personal note, she remembered Sunil Malhotra as a warm, generous, and steady presence in the family. She reflected on how he welcomed her with open arms and unconditional love, describing his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Kiara wrote that his stories, laughter, and quiet strength would remain with her forever. She added that his legacy of integrity and gentleness lives on through his children and grandchildren. Concluding her message, she expressed that he would always be loved and remembered.
The couple is currently in Delhi with their family during this difficult period. Members of the film industry extended their condolences online. Jacqueline Fernandez offered prayers, while Karan Johar and Manish Malhotra shared messages of support.
On the professional front, Sidharth will next appear in Vvan: Force of The Forest, directed by Arunabh Kumar and Deepak Mishra and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures. The film also stars Tamannaah Bhatia and is slated for release later this year.
Kiara, meanwhile, awaits the release of Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, directed by Geetu Mohandas. The film features Yash, Nayanthara, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, and Rukmini Vasanth in key roles. The film is expected to release on March 19, alongside Dhurandhar 2, directed by Aditya Dhar.

Actor pens heartfelt note after Sunil Malhotra’s passing

Kiara Mourns Sidharth’s Father

Days after 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra lost his life in a fatal SUV crash in Delhi&rsquo;s Dwarka, the father of the 17-year-old accused has expressed regret over the incident, stating that his family is &ldquo;deeply grief-stricken.&rdquo; He also confirmed that the Scorpio SUV involved in the accident is part of his commercial transport business.
The crash occurred around 11:50 am on February 3 near Lal Bahadur Shastri Institute of Management in Sector 11, Dwarka. According to police, the SUV rammed into a Yamaha R15 motorcycle, killing Sahil on the spot. The vehicle then struck a parked Swift Dzire, injuring cab driver Ajit Singh.
Post-mortem findings revealed that Sahil sustained a fractured skull, multiple rib fractures, and an elbow injury due to the high-impact collision.
The minor driver was detained at the scene and booked under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for rash driving, negligence causing death, and endangering life. He was later presented before the Juvenile Justice Board and sent to an observation home. On February 10, he was granted interim bail to appear for his Class 10 board examinations.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police registered a separate case against the boy&rsquo;s father under Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which holds guardians or vehicle owners accountable when a minor commits a traffic offence.
Speaking to the media after being questioned, the father said he was not in the city at the time of the accident and was unaware that his son had taken the vehicle. He stated that the family has cooperated with investigators and provided all necessary documents.
Sahil&rsquo;s mother alleged that her son was killed by a &ldquo;reckless teen&rdquo; just minutes away from his workplace. The 23-year-old, who worked part-time at an insurance firm, had plans to pursue higher studies in the United Kingdom later this year.

Minor held in SUV crash; father booked under MV Act provisions

Dwarka Crash: Accused’s Father Apologises

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday set aside a March 2025 judgment of the Allahabad High Court that had ruled that grabbing a minor girl&rsquo;s breasts and dragging her under a culvert did not amount to an attempt to rape. The apex court termed the ruling a &ldquo;patently erroneous&rdquo; application of criminal law principles.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N.V. Anjaria, held that the high court had incorrectly reduced the charges from attempt to rape under Section 376 read with Section 511 of the IPC and Section 18 of the POCSO Act to lesser offences. The court restored the original summons issued by the Special POCSO Court in Kasganj, clarifying that its observations were prima facie and would not influence the trial&rsquo;s outcome.
Rejecting the high court&rsquo;s reasoning that the accused had merely &ldquo;prepared&rdquo; to commit rape, the Supreme Court reiterated the settled distinction between preparation and attempt, noting that an attempt begins when intent moves into execution. Based on the allegations, including forcibly taking the minor on a motorcycle, dragging her near a culvert, and fleeing only after she screamed, the Bench held that a prima facie case of attempt to rape was clearly made out.
The proceedings were initiated suo motu after senior advocate Shobha Gupta raised concerns over the high court&rsquo;s reasoning. The Supreme Court had earlier stayed the controversial observations and later the entire judgment.
Beyond correcting the legal error, the court addressed a broader concern about insensitivity in judicial handling of sexual offence cases. It requested the National Judicial Academy in Bhopal to constitute a five-member expert committee to frame guidelines aimed at fostering compassion and sensitivity in courts, especially in cases involving minors and vulnerable victims.
The committee, to be chaired by former Supreme Court judge Justice Aniruddha Bose, has been directed to submit a report within three months. The guidelines are to be drafted in simple, accessible language and tailored to Indian realities to ensure they are understandable to victims and laypersons alike.

Top court restores rape attempt charge, seeks sensitivity guidelines

SC Sets Aside HC Order in POCSO Case

India&rsquo;s merchandise imports from Russia plunged by over 40% in January 2026, falling to about $2.86 billion from $4.81 billion a year earlier, official trade figures show, largely reflecting a steep reduction in crude oil purchases.
Crude oil typically accounts for roughly 80% of India&rsquo;s imports from Russia, and estimates suggest purchases of Russian crude last month were significantly lower than in previous years. Other goods imported from Russia include coal, fertilisers, iron, pulses, and precious stones, but these have not offset the slump in oil imports. The downturn in oil imports intensified after mid-2025, following punitive tariffs levied by the United States on Indian goods connected to purchases of Russian oil and ongoing diplomatic pressure. India&rsquo;s refiners, including some major private and state firms, have substantially reduced or halted buying Russian crude as they explore alternative sources.
In early February 2026, Washington eased the additional tariff on Indian products after New Delhi signalled a commitment to &ldquo;stop directly or indirectly importing&rdquo; Russian oil and to increase purchases of energy products from the United States, as well as broadening ties in global energy markets.
Analysts expect the shift in crude sourcing to continue, with Indian refiners eyeing other suppliers, including Middle Eastern and Venezuelan grades, as part of broader diversification strategies.

January sees 40% fall in Russia merchandise imports amid crude cutbacks

India’s Russia Imports Drop Sharply

A 27-year-old man has been arrested in Andhra Pradesh&rsquo;s Annamayya district for allegedly abducting and murdering a seven-year-old girl from his neighbourhood in Madanapalle town.
The child had been playing outside her home on Sunday evening when she went missing, sparking panic among her family and local residents. A missing complaint was filed the following morning, prompting an intensive search operation led by district police.
Investigators reviewed CCTV footage from across the town, which reportedly showed the suspect, a neighbour living opposite the victim&rsquo;s house, taking the child into his residence. Acting on this lead, police searched the house on Tuesday morning.
During the inspection, officers discovered the girl&rsquo;s body concealed inside a water storage drum within the premises. The accused was present at the house at the time and was immediately taken into custody.
Preliminary findings suggest the child was killed inside the residence on Sunday night, and her body was hidden thereafter. Authorities are probing whether sexual assault occurred before the murder, with confirmation pending post-mortem and forensic examination results.
Following the discovery, tensions escalated in the area. Residents and family members staged a protest on the Madanapalle highway, briefly preventing police from shifting the body to the government hospital for autopsy and demanding strict punishment for the accused.
Police have stated that all possible angles, including prior allegations of inappropriate behaviour by the suspect, are being examined as the investigation continues.

Child’s body found in drum; protest erupts in Madanapalle town

7-Year-Old Killed, Neighbour Arrested

The United States and Iran held their second round of indirect negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland, as diplomatic efforts continue amid heightened regional tensions. While both sides indicated forward movement in discussions, parallel military developments have added complexity to the fragile engagement.
Reports suggest the US has significantly reinforced its military presence in the Middle East. Over 50 advanced fighter aircraft, including F-35, F-22 and F-16 jets, were reportedly repositioned to the region within a 24-hour window. The deployment follows Washington&rsquo;s decision to send a second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, to Middle Eastern waters, underscoring its strategic posture.
Despite the show of force, the Geneva discussions were described as substantive and focused. Iranian officials signalled that preliminary understandings were reached on broad guiding principles that could shape a future agreement. However, they cautioned that drafting and finalising any deal would take time.
On the American side, officials maintained that the talks unfolded largely as anticipated. Washington&rsquo;s core objective remains preventing Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a position repeatedly emphasised by senior US leadership.
Meanwhile, regional tensions persisted. Iran temporarily restricted navigation in parts of the Strait of Hormuz during a naval drill, highlighting the waterway&rsquo;s vulnerability. Additionally, US leaders suggested that differences remain over key conditions laid out by President Donald Trump.
As diplomacy continues, both nations appear to be balancing dialogue with deterrence, leaving the broader geopolitical landscape uncertain.

Second Geneva round shows progress as military moves raise stakes

Moscow News