PM Modi Takes Holy Dip at Sangam, Calls it ‘Divine Connection
Pakistan wants to resolve all issues, including Kashmir, with India through talks: PM Sharif
Delhi Assembly polls: Majority of exit polls predict BJP’s return to power
Concern for India as Trump orders State Dept to ‘modify or rescind’ Chabahar sanction waivers
US military aircraft transports 104 deported people to India

What Else

Union Minister Hardeep Puri holds talks with Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tysvilev on strengthening cooperation
Army Eastern Command HQ shrugs off ‘colonial’ legacy by renaming Fort William to Vijay Durg
Ahead of Modi’s meeting with Trump, defence secretary outlines what projects could be in focus
Terrorist attacks will not disrupt Pakistan-China’s long-standing ties, Zardari assures Xi
Pakistan, China agree to strengthen intelligence sharing
PoJK: JeM and LeT Held Joint Event with Hamas in Pakistan
Bangladesh interim govt making all efforts to bring back Sheikh Hasina, others from India: Home Adviser
Indian govt responsible for any political move by Hasina: Nahid
Bulldozers demolish ‘Sheikh Bari’ in Khulna
Buddhist monastery and children’s institution catch fire in Bandarban
Sindhi activist arrest in UAE triggers fears of extradition to Pakistan
PoGB: Students protest in Chilas over unfair exam results
Pakistan: JUI-F chief reiterates call for fresh elections, calls February 8 polls “rigged”
Pak: HRCP alleges excessive use of force, deaths in PTI’s Islamabad protest last November; calls for independent inquiry
Trump to speak with Xi as China announces retaliatory tariffs

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PM Modi Takes Holy Dip at Sangam, Calls it ‘Divine Connection

PM Modi recently took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, as part of the Maha Kumbh Mela.
He described the experience as a “moment of divine connection” and expressed his gratitude, saying “May Maa Ganga bless all with peace, wisdom, good health, and harmony”.
During his visit, Modi also performed prayers and took a boat tour of the Sangam with CM Yogi Adityanath.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, which commenced on Jan 13, 2025, has attracted millions of devotees from across the globe, with over 382 million people taking a holy dip at the Sangam since the event began.
Modi’s visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela comes amid the Delhi Assembly elections, where his party, the BJP, is challenging the AAP and Congress.
Earlier, Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk visited Prayagraj and engaged in spiritual activities at the Lete Hanuman Mandir. (more)

Pakistan wants to resolve all issues, including Kashmir, with India through talks: PM Sharif

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated his country’s commitment to resolving all issues, including Kashmir, through talks with India.
He made these remarks on the occasion of “Kashmir Solidarity Day,” an annual event to show support for the Kashmiri people.
Sharif emphasized that dialogue is the only way forward, as outlined in the 1999 Lahore Declaration.
Sharif also urged India to come out of its Aug 5, 2019, mindset, referring to the abrogation of Article 370, which revoked Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.
He emphasized that the accumulation of arms would not bring peace and called for India to be wise, saying peace is the way to progress.
Pakistan has reaffirmed its support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, with President Asif Ali Zardari and PM Sharif asking the international community to pressure India to allow Kashmiris to determine their future. (more)

Delhi Assembly polls: Majority of exit polls predict BJP’s return to power

Most of the exit polls on Wednesday predicted the return of the Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies to power in the Delhi Assembly polls after 27 years, while the Aam Aadmi Party was projected to finish second and the Congress a distant third.
Here are the predicted seat shares:
Chanakya Strategies: BJP (39-44 seats), AAP (25-28 seats), Congress (2-3 seats)
JVC: BJP (39-45 seats), AAP (22-31 seats), Congress (0-2 seats)
DV Research: BJP (36-44 seats), AAP (26-34 seats), Congress (0 seats)
Matrize: BJP (35-40 seats), AAP (32-37 seats), Congress (0-1 seat)
P-Marq: BJP (39-49 seats), AAP (21-31 seats), Congress (0-1 seat)
However, some pollsters, like Mind Brink and WeePreside, predict the AAP will win, with 44-49 seats and 46-52 seats, respectively.
The AAP has rejected the exit poll results, citing historical underestimation of their performance. The BJP, on the other hand, is confident of their victory.
The official results will be declared on Feb 8.

Concern for India as Trump orders State Dept to ‘modify or rescind’ Chabahar sanction waivers

US President Donald Trump has directed his administration to “modify or rescind” sanction waivers for the Chabahar Port in Iran, where India has a significant stake.
This move could potentially setback India’s connectivity projects with Central Asia.
The Chabahar Port is a strategic asset for India, allowing access to Afghanistan while bypassing Pakistan.
India received a narrow waiver on the port from the US in 2018, due to its importance in Afghanistan’s reconstruction and economic development.
However, with the Taliban back in power in Afghanistan, the situation has changed.
Trump’s decision to apply “maximum pressure” on Iran may impact the remaining economic linkages between India and Iran.
India has largely complied with US sanctions on Iran, reducing its oil imports from $13 billion in 2018-2019 to less than $1 billion since 2019-2020.
The issue of the sanctions waiver is likely to be discussed during PM Narendra Modi’s potential White House visit.
“The Secretary of State shall ……modify or rescind sanctions waivers, particularly those that provide Iran any degree of economic or financial relief, including those related to Iran’s Chabahar port project”. (more)

US military aircraft transports 104 deported people to India

A US military plane carrying 205 deported Indians, mostly from Punjab, landed in Amritsar on Feb 5, 2025.
This deportation is part of the Trump administration’s policy to use military aircraft for deportations, which has symbolic importance and raises the profile of expulsions.
The move comes ahead of PM Modi’s visit to Washington, where immigration was reportedly discussed in a phone call last week.
Data suggests around 725,000 undocumented Indian immigrants are in the US, making them the third-largest group after Mexicans and Salvadorians.
Using military planes for deportations is 5 times more expensive than commercial flights, according to Reuters. (more)
Punjab Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal has urged PM Modi to discuss the deportation issue with US President Donald Trump.
This comes after 104 Indians, including 30 from Punjab, were deported from the US and arrived in Amritsar.
Dhaliwal emphasized that Modi and Trump’s friendship should be leveraged to find a solution.
The US has been vigorously enforcing its border and immigration laws, with the Ministry of External Affairs facilitating the return of Indian nationals who have overstayed or lack proper documentation. (more)

Union Minister Hardeep Puri holds talks with Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tysvilev on strengthening cooperation

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri met with Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tysvilev to strengthen cooperation between India and Russia.
They reviewed ongoing collaboration in the energy sector and explored new partnership opportunities.
This meeting is part of India’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on traditional suppliers.
Russia has become a significant energy partner for India, with bilateral trade reaching $65.70 billion in FY 2023-24.
The two countries aim to increase trade to $100 billion by 2030, with a focus on energy, pharmaceuticals, and technology.
This cooperation is crucial for India’s economic growth and energy security.
In a separate development, a Russian parliamentary delegation led by Vyacheslav Volodin met with Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
These meetings highlight the strong diplomatic ties between the two, which have been strengthened through regular exchanges and cooperation in various fields (more)

Army Eastern Command HQ shrugs off ‘colonial’ legacy by renaming Fort William to Vijay Durg

The Indian Army’s Eastern Command headquarters, formerly known as Fort William, has been renamed Vijay Durg, shedding its colonial legacy.
This change, made in mid-December last year, aims to honor India’s military heritage and historical figures.
The new name is inspired by the Vijaydurg Fort, a naval base of the Maratha Empire located on Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg coast.
This fort was constructed during the regime of Raja Bhoja II and fortified by Chhatrapati Shivaji, known for its impregnability and strategic importance. (more)

Ahead of Modi’s meeting with Trump, defence secretary outlines what projects could be in focus

Ahead of PM Modi’s meeting with President Donald Trump, the US Defense Secretary has outlined key projects that could be in focus.
These projects are likely to strengthen the India-US defense partnership, particularly in areas like defense industrial cooperation and operationalizing the major defense partnership.
Some potential areas of discussion include:
Enhancing defense trade and technology cooperation: Building on previous collaborations, the two nations may explore new opportunities for joint development and production of defense technologies.
Strengthening maritime security cooperation: Given India’s strategic location and the importance of the Indo-Pacific region, the two nations may discuss ways to enhance cooperation on maritime security, counter-terrorism, and non-proliferation.
Expanding joint military exercises and training: The two nations may explore opportunities to increase the scope and complexity of joint military exercises, enhancing interoperability and cooperation between their armed forces.
These discussions are expected to lay the groundwork for a significant expansion of India-US defense cooperation, building on the momentum established during previous engagements. (more)

[Neighborhood]

Terrorist attacks will not disrupt Pakistan-China’s long-standing ties, Zardari assures Xi

President Asif Ali Zardari has reassured China that militant attacks won’t disrupt Pakistan’s long-standing ties with its “all-weather friend.”
During a meeting with Chinese President Xi, Zardari expressed unwavering support for the bilateral partnership, stating, “Pakistan and China will always be friends”.
The two leaders discussed the next phase of the CPEC, (aka CPEC 2.0), which aims to expand beyond transport and energy projects to include industrialization, agricultural modernization, and regional partnerships.
This new phase is part of China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Zardari also extended a formal invitation to Xi to visit Pakistan, underscoring the strong public admiration for the Chinese leader in his country.
The meeting concluded with several MoUs aimed at strengthening collaboration in science and technology, clean energy, and socio-economic development. (more)

Pakistan, China agree to strengthen intelligence sharing

Pakistan and China have agreed to boost intelligence sharing and security cooperation following a high-level meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and China’s Interior Minister Qiu Yanjun in Beijing.
The two ministers discussed securing borders, using advanced technology for police and paramilitary forces, and acquiring modern equipment from China to strengthen Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies.
They also agreed to enhance collaboration between the National Police Academy and police forces in Beijing and Islamabad.
The meeting, which lasted two hours, showed satisfaction with the progress made in the Jan meeting of the Joint Working Group.
Naqvi invited his Chinese counterpart to visit Pakistan, further solidifying their cooperation. (more)
The two countries discussed securing borders for paramilitary forces and enhancing cooperation in this regard.
They agreed to use advanced technology for police and paramilitary forces to enhance their capabilities.
Pakistan will procure cutting-edge technology and equipment from China to strengthen its law enforcement agencies.

PoJK: JeM and LeT Held Joint Event with Hamas in Pakistan

Hamas joins hands with Jaish e Muhammad and Lashkar e Tayyiba in Rawlakot of Pakistan-Occupied Jammu & Kashmir.
Jaish terrorist announces that Hamas and Pakistani Jihadi groups have united.
Hamas Spox Dr Khaled Qaddoumi, Dr Naji Zaheer apart from Hamas Leaders Mufti Azam and Bilal Alsallat also addressed the rally.
Jaish gunmen can be seen on stage protecting Hamas leaders from Palestine.
This city was notorious for being a launching pad for terrorists.
The event, titled “Kashmir Solidarity and Storm Aqsa Conference,” aimed to promote solidarity with Kashmiris and Palestinians.
Local journalist Harees Qadir had expressed concerns that Kashmiris would be exploited by groups like Hamas.
Despite the Pakistani govt’s claims of fighting terrorism, it was alleged that the Pakistan Army was aware of and possibly even supported this event.
The conference was organized by banned organizations, including JeM and LeT, which had been linked to various terrorist attacks in the region. The involvement of Hamas representatives had raised concerns about the potential escalation of terrorist activities in the region.

Bangladesh interim govt making all efforts to bring back Sheikh Hasina, others from India: Home Adviser

Sheikh Hasina’s extradition from India to Bangladesh is a complex issue.
Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has issued arrest warrants for Hasina and others, accusing them of crimes against “humanity and genocide”.
India and Bangladesh have an extradition treaty, signed in 2013 and amended in 2016, which allows for the exchange of fugitives.
However, the treaty doesn’t guarantee extradition, and the final decision depends on diplomatic negotiations and political factors.
India’s decision on Hasina’s extradition will likely depend on various factors, including diplomatic relations, political considerations, and the principle of dual criminality (more)

Indian govt responsible for any political move by Hasina: Nahid

Nahid Islam, Information and Broadcasting Adviser has warned that India will be held responsible if ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina engages in any political activities within the country.
Nahid emphasized that India has already provided shelter to Sheikh Hasina and should now return her to Bangladesh, which is a diplomatic matter.
Nahid also addressed the role of newspapers during the July movement, urging editors who played a controversial role to clarify their actions.
He emphasized the importance of unity among the people for the country’s well-being.
Additionally, Nahid expressed concerns about potential anarchy in Feb and Mar, stating that the student-people will continue their resistance and are always ready to respond to any attempts to create division. (more)

Bulldozers demolish ‘Sheikh Bari’ in Khulna

The Sheikh Bari, a home of Sheikh Hasina’s uncle, was demolished in Khulna on Wed evening.
Members of the anti-discrimination student movement began tearing it down around 9:00 pm using two bulldozers.
They shouted slogans against Sheikh Hasina and her political party.
The Sheikh Bari, located in the Moylapota area, was previously home to Sheikh Hasina’s cousins and played a role in local Awami League politics.
On Aug 4, the building was set on fire during protests, and after more unrest on Aug 5, it was looted and vandalized again, leaving only the concrete structure. (more)
Protests, vandalism at Dhanmondi 32: A protest was also staged at the Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial Museum in Dhaka on Wed evening, with demonstrators breaking into the building premises around 8 pm.
The protesters, reportedly radical students, and people chanted slogans against “dictatorship, fascism, and the Awami League’.
The protest was sparked by a call for a “bulldozer procession” on Facebook, coinciding with a virtual speech by Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India amid the July uprising.
The demonstrators vandalized the building, which has been largely abandoned since similar vandalism occurred on Aug 5.
According to the text, the call for a “bulldozer procession” on Facebook was made by Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, convener of Inqilab Mancha and a member of the Jatiya Nagorik Committee, through multiple Facebook posts in the afternoon.
Additionally, Hasnat Abdullah, convener of the anti-discrimination student movement, also made a post on fb around 7:00 pm, stating, “Tonight, Bangladesh will be free from the pilgrimage site of fascism.” (more)

Buddhist monastery and children’s institution catch fire in Bandarban

A devastating fire broke out at a Buddhist monastery and children’s institution in Bandarban’s Ruma Upazila on February 4, 2025.
The fire, caused by an “electrical short circuit”, rapidly spread due to the wooden and bamboo structures.
Despite efforts by locals to extinguish the flames, the monastery suffered significant damage, estimated at several lakh takas.
Fortunately, 18 Buddha statues and 8 brass bells were rescued. The children’s learning center, funded by UNICEF, was also affected.
The center provided pre-primary education to children from 30 families.
The incident has caused concern among the local community, who are now working to rebuild the damaged monastery. (more)

Sindhi activist arrest in UAE triggers fears of extradition to Pakistan

The arrest of Sindhi activist Wajid Jagirani in the UAE has sparked fears of extradition to Pakistan, where his life may be in danger.
Jagirani, a well-known advocate for Sindh’s rights and self-determination, is accused of being a threat to Pakistan’s govt.
Human rights organizations and Sindhi nationalist parties are urging international organizations, including the British govt, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International, to intervene and ensure Jagirani’s safety.
The UAE and Pakistan have an extradition treaty, which allows individuals accused of crimes to be transferred between the two countries.
However, there are concerns that Jagirani’s extradition could lead to human rights violations, including enforced disappearances and torture.
Activists are appealing to the Dubai government to prevent Jagirani’s deportation, arguing that it would constitute a grave human rights violation.
The Jeay Sindh Freedom Movement has also called for international intervention to protect Jagirani’s life and safety. (more)

PoGB: Students protest in Chilas over unfair exam results

Students in Chilas, Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB), protested over unfair exam results, claiming only three students passed out of a large cohort.
The protesters, who gathered at Siddique Akbar Chowk, demanded a re-examination, citing irregularities and bias in the results.
They alleged that a student with connections to the school director passed despite lacking basic literacy skills.
The students had previously approached education officials, but their concerns were dismissed.
Undeterred, they vowed to continue protesting until their demands for a fair re-examination process are met. (more)

Pakistan: JUI-F chief reiterates call for fresh elections, calls February 8 polls “rigged”

Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), has reiterated his demand for fresh elections in Pakistan, labeling the Feb 8 polls as “rigged”.
He made these remarks after attending a dinner hosted by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader Asad Qaiser.
Rehman expressed concerns over the expired term of Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja and criticized the govt’s extension of his tenure through the 26^th Constitutional Amendment.
He emphasized the need for consultation on this matter and stated that the federal government no longer represents the people of Pakistan.
Other opposition leaders, including Awaam Pakistan’s Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, have echoed Rehman’s sentiments, calling for an end to “fascism” in Pakistan and demanding the release of political prisoners.
The PTI has announced plans to observe a black day on February 8 to protest against the alleged rigging of the general elections. (more)

Pak: HRCP alleges excessive use of force, deaths in PTI’s Islamabad protest last November; calls for independent inquiry

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has accused the government of using excessive force during the PTI-led protest in Islamabad last Nov, resulting in the deaths of demonstrators and security personnel.
The HRCP’s fact-finding report alleges that hospital administrations and police withheld the bodies of victims until their families agreed not to pursue legal action.
The report also criticizes the govt’s handling of the protest, stating that they employed “excessive and disproportionate force” and showed a lack of competence.
The HRCP is calling for an independent investigation into the incidents, which would include the PTI, other political parties, and the relatives of the alleged victims.
The protest, which was led by Imran Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi, was demanding Khan’s release from jail.
The govt had denied permission for the protest, and security forces were deployed to contain the crowd.
The situation escalated, resulting in clashes between protesters and security personnel (more)

Trump to speak with Xi as China announces retaliatory tariffs

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to talk soon, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
This comes as China has announced retaliatory tariffs on US goods, including a 15% tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, in response to the US imposing 10% tariffs on Chinese goods.
China’s Ministry of Finance stated that the new measures are a response to the “unilateral tariff hike” by the US, which “seriously violates WTO rules.”
The tariffs are set to take effect on Feb 10.
Experts see China’s retaliatory tariffs as a “calibrated response” rather than an escalation, leaving room for negotiation.
However, the outcome depends on Washington’s interpretation of these measures.

If seen as a direct challenge, the US may respond with additional trade restrictions, intensifying the conflict. (more)

Top Headlines: PM Modi Takes Holy Dip at Sangam, Calls it ‘Divine Connection