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Mahindra Launches XEV 9S: India’s First Mass-Market 3-Row Electric SUV Starting at ₹19.95 Lakh

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Mahindra
Mahindra

Mahindra has unveiled the XEV 9S, India’s first mass-market three-row electric SUV, with an introductory price of ₹19.95 lakh (ex-showroom). Built on Mahindra’s INGLO platform designed specifically for electric vehicles, the XEV 9S undercuts its platform sibling, the XEV 9e, by ₹1.95 lakh despite sharing underlying architecture.

Launch Timeline and Availability

Test drives commence December 5, 2025, with bookings opening January 14, 2026, and deliveries beginning January 23, 2026. The SUV enters the market without direct competition in the mass-market three-row electric segment.

Design and Practicality

The Mahindra XEV 9S adopts Mahindra’s Heartcore design philosophy, featuring a closed-off grille, connected LED DRLs, and triangular LED headlamps. The 2,762mm wheelbase maximizes interior space, delivering what Mahindra claims is 4,076 liters of combined front and second-row cabin volume. Practical storage includes a segment-leading 150-liter frunk and up to 527 liters of boot space with the third row folded.

Ground clearance measures 205mm, with 222mm battery clearance, maintaining SUV capability while accommodating battery packaging.

Battery Options and Performance

Three battery configurations are offered: 59kWh, 70kWh, and 79kWh, producing up to 210kW power and 380Nm torque. The most powerful variants accelerate 0-100kph in 7.0 seconds, with top speed electronically limited to 202kph. Real-world range reaches up to 500km, with DC fast-charging achieving 20-80 percent in 20 minutes depending on variant and charger capability.

Technology and Features

A coast-to-coast triple-screen layout dominates the dashboard, complemented by two rear screens with BYOD mounting. The MAIA architecture, powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon processors (8155 on most variants, 8295 on top-spec Pack Three Above), enables over 140 connected features including digital key access, charge scheduling, and remote cabin pre-cooling.

Higher variants include a 16-speaker Harman Kardon system with Dolby Atmos, AR-based VisionX head-up display, and ventilated seats in front and second rows.

Safety Equipment

Safety features include up to seven airbags, drowsiness detection, and TPMS with live pressure display. Pack Two introduces Level 2 ADAS, while Pack Three upgrades to Level 2+ with five radars, lane centering, emergency steering assist, and blind spot detection.

Pricing Structure

Variants range from Pack One Above at ₹19.95 lakh (59kWh) to Pack Three Above at ₹29.45 lakh (79kWh only), with AC wallbox chargers priced separately.

Hong Kong High-Rise Fire Kills 55, Hundreds Missing as Authorities Arrest Three for Negligence

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Hong Kong
Hong Kong

Hong Kong: A catastrophic fire engulfed a Hong Kong residential complex Wednesday, claiming at least 55 lives and leaving 279 people unaccounted for in the financial hub’s deadliest blaze in decades. Firefighters continued battling flames Thursday morning at the eight-building Wang Fuk Court estate in Tai Po district.

3 Arrested for Gross Negligence

Police announced Thursday they arrested three men in connection with the fire after flammable materials left during maintenance work caused the blaze “to spread rapidly beyond control.” Officers suspect the individuals “acted with gross negligence” by leaving foam packaging at the fire site.

Authorities searched premises in a separate neighborhood Thursday morning, removing documents related to the arrested individuals.

Rapid Spread Through Scaffolding

The inferno initially took hold on bamboo scaffolding covering several 31-story apartment blocks undergoing estate-wide repairs. The complex houses 2,000 apartments in one of the world’s most densely populated areas.

“The windows were closed because of the maintenance, (some people) didn’t know there was a fire and had to be told to evacuate via phone calls by neighbours,” said 65-year-old resident Yuen, who lived in the complex for over four decades. “I’m devastated.”

Casualties and Hospital Treatment

Among the dead was a 37-year-old firefighter who was found with facial burns half an hour after losing contact with colleagues, according to fire service director Andy Yeung.

A government spokesman confirmed 56 people were receiving hospital treatment: 16 in critical condition, 24 in serious condition, and 16 stable. More than 900 people sought refuge at temporary shelters.

Rescue Challenges in Hong Kong Fire

“The temperature at the scene is very high and there are some floors where we have been unable to reach people who requested help, but we will keep trying,” said Derek Armstrong Chan, deputy director of fire service operations.

Chan indicated the fire likely spread between buildings due to wind and drifting debris, though authorities are investigating the exact cause.

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences to victims, “including the firefighter who died in the line of duty,” according to state media. City leader John Lee said he was “deeply saddened” and confirmed all government departments were assisting affected residents.

Deadly fires were once common in densely populated Hong Kong, particularly in poorer neighborhoods, though enhanced safety measures have significantly reduced such incidents in recent decades.

Hema Malini Shares Emotional Tribute to Late Husband Dharmendra: “He Was Everything to Me”

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Hema Malini
Hema Malini

Three days after legendary actor Dharmendra’s death, his wife and veteran actress Hema Malini posted her first public tribute on social media Thursday, describing the profound impact of losing her husband of several decades.

Hema Malini’s Heartfelt Social Media Tribute

Dharmendra passed away November 24 in Mumbai at age 89. On November 27, Hema shared an emotional note reflecting on their relationship and his multifaceted role in her life.

“Dharam ji (heart emoji) He was many things to me. Loving husband, adoring father of our two girls, Esha & Ahaana, friend, philosopher, guide, poet, my ‘go to’ person in all times of need – in fact, he was everything to me! And always has been through good times and bad,” Hema wrote.

Personal and Family Connections

She described how Dharmendra formed deep bonds with her extended family: “He endeared himself to all my family members with his easy, friendly ways, always showing affection and interest in all of them.”

Reflecting on his public persona, Hema emphasized his distinctive character among Bollywood legends, stating his humility and universal appeal made him “a unique icon unequalled among all the legends.” She added: “His enduring fame and achievements in the film industry will last forever.”

Irreplaceable Loss

Addressing her personal grief, Hema Malini wrote: “My personal loss is indescribable, and the vacuum created is something that will last through the rest of my life. After years of togetherness, I am left with myriad memories to relive the many special moments.”

Legacy and Survivors

Dharmendra, celebrated as Bollywood’s “He-Man” and one of Hindi cinema’s most beloved stars, was cremated in Mumbai on Monday. He is survived by Hema Malini, his first wife Prakash Kaur, and six children: Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Esha Deol, Ahana Deol, Ajeeta, and Vijeta.

Memorial Service Scheduled

A prayer meet commemorating the late actor’s life and legacy is scheduled for Thursday from 5 PM to 7:30 PM at a Mumbai hotel, providing an opportunity for family, friends, and industry colleagues to gather in remembrance.

Dharmendra’s career spanned over six decades, establishing him as one of Indian cinema’s most enduring and influential figures.

Free Bus and E-Rickshaw Services Rolled Out by Punjab Govt Across Anandpur Sahib, Amritsar and Talwandi Sabo

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Punjab
Punjab

A remarkable decision has once again taken shape in Punjab’s historic spiritual centers. The Mann government has introduced a transformative initiative that offers pilgrims and residents completely free travel through e rickshaws and mini buses in Anandpur Sahib, Amritsar, and Talwandi Sabo. For the countless devotees who arrive every day to pay their respects at these sacred sites, this move feels like a heartfelt gesture of service. It represents not only a practical reform but also the government’s deep respect for the spiritual importance of these holy cities.

During his visit to the revered city of Sri Anandpur Sahib, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that free transportation will soon be available in the three cities that the Punjab Assembly recently designated as holy cities: Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo. Under this initiative, the government will operate cost free mini buses and e rickshaws to make local travel smooth and accessible for devotees as well as local residents.

The purpose of this service is to make sure that anyone visiting these sacred cities can reach important religious points and heritage locations without stress or inconvenience. Mann explained that the government’s intention is to make pilgrimages easier, to reduce travel struggles for the elderly and the poor, and to ensure that every visitor experiences dignity and comfort while moving around places of worship.

These three centers of faith already offer numerous services that reflect Sikh values of equality and compassion. With the introduction of free transport, the experience becomes even more accessible. Devotees visiting Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo, and the Harmandir Sahib complex in Amritsar will find it easier to reach places of prayer, community kitchens, and sarais.

The Guru’s langar continues to serve as the heart of these holy sites. It offers warm, simple meals prepared with love, feeding every visitor who comes seeking peace. Bathing at the sarovar in Amritsar or Talwandi Sabo provides an inner calm that generations of devotees have cherished. Sarais provide neat rooms and clean washrooms at either no cost or at a minimal contribution. The soothing flow of Gurbani, broadcast throughout the day, nurtures the soul of everyone who sits within the sanctum. Facilities such as first aid, ambulance support, and places to safely leave shoes and belongings ensure that everyone can pray without concern.

With the arrival of free local transport, elderly visitors, women, children, and pilgrims traveling from faraway towns will no longer have to worry about reaching the Gurdwara Sahib. The government’s move reflects an understanding of the emotional and spiritual needs of people who come here with devotion in their hearts. More than anything, this decision highlights Punjab’s timeless tradition of seva, equality, and human connection.

Through this initiative, the Mann government has once again demonstrated that governance becomes meaningful when leaders listen carefully to the sentiments of their people and respond with compassion. On Punjab’s sacred soil, this commitment to public service reinforces the message that true progress is built on empathy, accessibility, and respect for faith.

‘Final Stages’: Trump Says Meetings With Putin and Zelensky Will Happen Only Near Completion of Deal

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putin zelensky

President Donald Trump has sent his top negotiators for another round of high level discussions with both Moscow and Kyiv, while making it clear that he will only sit down with the leaders of Russia and Ukraine once negotiations produce a nearly complete agreement to end the conflict.

Trump said in a social media post that the original peace framework containing twenty eight points, drafted by the United States, has now been refined with feedback from both sides. Only a handful of disagreements remain, he claimed, and significant headway has been made over the last week. This updated proposal is the same one that drew criticism from Ukrainian and European officials when it first surfaced.

He has instructed special envoy Steve Witkoff to travel to Moscow for talks with President Vladimir Putin, while Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, who has already been engaged with Russian representatives in Abu Dhabi, has been sent to meet Ukrainian officials.

Trump also announced that he hopes to meet both President Zelenskyy and President Putin, but only once a final peace deal is either fully completed or extremely close to completion.

The renewed diplomatic push comes at a moment when officials at the White House are increasingly optimistic, even though many international observers remain unconvinced that Trump’s effort will lead to an agreement. Earlier reports hinting that a settlement was within reach have also proved unreliable.

One persistent obstacle is that any arrangement acceptable to Kyiv has typically been unacceptable to Moscow. Analysts warn that this pattern may undermine the talks once again. Trump’s reluctance to participate directly in mediation may also complicate the process, since any peace deal will require painful concessions from both capitals. Ukrainian officials have made it known that they would welcome an invitation to speak with Trump, who is leaving Washington to spend Thanksgiving at Mar a Lago.

Earlier in the day, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy pushed back against speculation that Kyiv had already agreed to a draft settlement. After speaking with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, he posted a message saying that discussions with Washington continue and that he appreciates the efforts being made by the United States and by Trump personally.

Expectations intensified after Trump hinted on Monday that major breakthroughs had been achieved. ABC News later reported that Ukraine had accepted the main outline of a potential deal and that only secondary issues remained, citing a United States official.

Still, even if Washington and Kyiv manage to find common ground, Moscow may again halt any momentum. Former United States ambassador John Herbst noted that Trump wants a stable peace, while Putin seeks political control over Ukraine, making the two goals incompatible unless Russia is convinced it cannot prevail.

Recent talks between American and Russian negotiators in Abu Dhabi followed earlier meetings in Geneva, where progress was made in calming the strong backlash from European allies and from Ukraine to the original American plan. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said he had no updates to share when asked about the Abu Dhabi discussions.

The initial peace proposal stunned Kyiv and its partners, as it required Ukraine to abandon its efforts to join NATO and to relinquish parts of the eastern Donbas region, including areas not yet held by Russia. That draft was shaped by conversations between Witkoff and senior Russian officials. In one brief October phone call, Witkoff even advised Putin’s foreign policy aide on how to discuss the matter with Trump, suggesting timing and strategy before Zelenskiy’s visit to Washington.

Ukrainian military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov was also present in Abu Dhabi for meetings, according to a person familiar with the situation.

Negotiators later reduced the original list to nineteen proposals during the Geneva meetings. Yet Deputy Chief of Staff Ihor Brusylo emphasized that any discussion involving territorial boundaries, which remain at the heart of the war, will ultimately need to be addressed directly between Trump and Zelenskiy.

Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, said that both sides had reached a shared understanding of the major points discussed in Geneva. He added that Ukraine is working to organize a visit for Zelenskiy to the United States as soon as possible.

European involvement intensified as well. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron joined Chancellor Merz and leaders from Italy, Sweden, New Zealand, Estonia and the European Union for a conference call with Zelenskiy to discuss the peace framework. United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio also participated, marking his growing role as Trump’s main link to European governments during the negotiations. According to Starmer, Ukraine has offered constructive revisions and Zelenskiy believes most of the text appears acceptable.

Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Moscow expects the United States to share a fresh version of the plan once discussions with Ukraine and European partners conclude. He warned, however, that any departure from the commitments reached during Trump’s earlier summit with Putin in Alaska would face strong resistance from the Kremlin.

While the diplomacy continues, fighting has not stopped. Overnight, Russia launched heavy air attacks on Kyiv, and Ukraine carried out strikes on southern regions of Russia.

AI-Generated Research Claim Surfaces Again as Deloitte Accused in Million-Dollar Report

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Deloitte
Deloitte

A healthcare study ordered by a provincial government in Canada and prepared by Deloitte has come under scrutiny after claims that it contains possible AI generated mistakes. The project reportedly cost nearly 1.6 million dollars, and this marks the second occasion this year in which the consultancy has been accused of using AI created material and questionable citations in its official work.

The concerns were first made public by the Independent, a Canadian media outlet. According to the publication, the document prepared by Deloitte and later released by the Department of Health and Community Services includes at least four citations that cannot be traced to any real source.

This study was ordered by the former administration and examined a wide range of topics such as the rise of virtual care, the effects of the pandemic on healthcare staff, and suggestions for improving human resource planning in a sector that is facing significant worker shortages.

Critics argue that some citations in the report appear to be fabricated, with references pointing to academic studies that do not exist. The Independent also noted that certain papers were credited to legitimate researchers who had never authored them, and in a few cases names were included that do not belong to any known scholars.

What did Deloitte say in response
In a statement to Fortune, a spokesperson for Deloitte Canada insisted that the firm fully supports the recommendations laid out in the document.

They added that the team is making minor corrections to a small number of citations but emphasised that these adjustments do not alter the overall conclusions of the study. The spokesperson also stated that AI did not draft the main content of the report and was used only in a limited way to assist with a handful of research references.

Earlier this year, Deloitte Australia agreed to return part of the payment for a report valued at 290 thousand dollars after it was found to contain alleged AI related inaccuracies. That document was more than two hundred pages long and had been posted on the website of the Australian government’s Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

India Coach Gambhir Won’t Step Down, Reminds Critics ‘I’m the Same Man Who Won the Champions Trophy, Asia Cup’

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gautam gambhir
gautam gambhir

Gautam Gambhir has made it clear that he has no intention of stepping down as India’s head coach, even though the Test side has endured a difficult year at home, losing five of the seven matches played under his guidance. The 3–0 defeat to New Zealand last October had already raised alarm bells, and the recent 2–0 loss to South Africa has only intensified discussions around one key question: Is it time for Gambhir to walk away from the role, at least in the longest format?

According to Gambhir himself, that possibility is nowhere on the horizon. After Rahul Dravid’s tenure ended with India lifting the T20 World Cup on June 29, the BCCI appointed Gambhir to take charge. Since then, India’s performance in limited overs cricket has been impressive, with victories in both the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup. Their Test results, however, have not matched the same standard. Losing the Border Gavaskar Trophy, scraping wins against Bangladesh and the West Indies, and only managing to draw a series in England have all added pressure.

When a journalist finally asked him directly whether he still believed he was the right man to coach India, Gambhir accepted a share of the responsibility but pointed out what the team has achieved during his tenure.

“The BCCI will take that call. I said from the very beginning that Indian cricket matters more than any individual, and I still stand by that. People also seem to overlook that we performed well in England with a young squad. The focus always shifts to New Zealand, but the same group under me won the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup. This is a young Test team and they need time, experience, and every opportunity to improve. That is exactly what we are working towards,” Gambhir said at the post match press interaction.

The second Test in Guwahati ended in a staggering 408 run defeat, the heaviest home Test loss in India’s history, sealing a comfortable series win for South Africa and adding further scrutiny to Gambhir’s tenure.

‘Project Firewall’: Trump Administration Launches H-1B Visa Compliance Investigation

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H-1B visa
H-1B visa

The Trump administration has initiated a comprehensive investigation into H-1B visa practices through a program called “Project Firewall,” aimed at strengthening protections for American workers in the skilled labor market.

The Department of Labor is leading this multi-agency effort, working alongside the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to monitor employer compliance with visa regulations.

Enhanced Oversight of Hiring Practices

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer emphasized the administration’s commitment to enforcement. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we will continue working with our federal partners to put an end to bad practices and safeguard opportunities for American workers,” she stated.

The initiative focuses on preventing employers from bypassing qualified American candidates in favor of foreign workers holding H-1B visas. Federal agencies will share information and coordinate enforcement actions against companies found violating anti-discrimination and labor laws.

White House Clarifies President’s Position

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed growing concerns about the administration’s stance on skilled immigration. “The President does not support American workers being replaced,” she said Monday.

Leavitt provided context for Trump’s position, explaining his support for foreign companies bringing specialized workers to establish U.S. operations. “He wants to see if foreign companies are investing trillions of dollars in the United States of America, and they’re bringing foreign workers with them to create very niche things like batteries. He wants to see that at the beginning to get those manufacturing facilities and those factories up and running,” she explained.

Balancing Investment and American Employment

The administration maintains that while welcoming initial foreign expertise for establishing manufacturing facilities, long-term employment should prioritize American workers. Trump has reportedly told foreign investors they must hire American workers to conduct business in the United States.

This policy shift emerges as the administration navigates tensions within its political coalition regarding immigration policy and economic development, seeking to attract foreign investment while protecting domestic employment opportunities.

Guru Tegh Bahadur’s Great Sacrifice Echoes Through Anandpur Sahib as History Marks His 350th Martyrdom Day

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A landmark moment took place in Anandpur Sahib when the Punjab Government presented what is being described as the world’s first religious drone show in remembrance of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. More than fifty thousand devotees and visitors gathered to witness this extraordinary tribute, honoring the Ninth Sikh Guru’s unparalleled sacrifice through a never-before-seen visual experience.

As night settled in, over three thousand drones rose into the sky, illuminating it with coordinated formations that depicted major moments from Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s life. The shimmering creation of the sacred Khanda Sahib symbol drew a wave of awe from the entire crowd, its radiant glow turning the sky into a canvas of devotion and admiration.

The Chief Minister of Punjab formally opened the event, remarking that the show demonstrated the state’s commitment to safeguarding Sikh history while embracing modern innovation. He emphasized that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji laid down his life to protect the right to religious freedom for all, and that spreading his message of courage and compassion through technology would inspire people across the world.

For fifteen minutes, the audience watched a powerful retelling of history through light. The drones recreated scenes of Guru Ji in deep meditation, his capture and imprisonment at the Red Fort, and symbolic visuals of breaking chains to represent the triumph of spiritual freedom. Melodic shabads and narrated guidance accompanied each formation, allowing young viewers to learn about Sikh history in a heartfelt and engaging way.

Organizers explained that the creation of the show required meticulous planning. Drone specialists collaborated with Sikh historians and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to ensure complete respect for every religious symbol and portrayal. The team worked with great sensitivity to maintain cultural authenticity in each formation.

Once the show concluded, social media platforms were flooded with images and videos. The event quickly became a nationwide trend, earning praise from people of all faiths. Several global news outlets highlighted the show as a remarkable example of how technology can deepen spiritual storytelling.

Many religious leaders applauded the initiative, observing that such creative presentations help younger generations form a stronger connection with Sikh teachings. Sikh scholar Baba Harjinder Singh remarked that Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s message transcends time and that modern forms of expression like this drone show help ensure that the Guru’s values reach audiences in fresh and meaningful ways.

The Punjab Government has also shared plans to archive the entire show and make it available for schools, universities, and cultural institutions around the world. Officials said that this event demonstrates a thoughtful and respectful approach to blending tradition with technology. The success of this historic drone show at Anandpur Sahib has sparked widespread discussions and set a new benchmark for cultural and spiritual events in India.

From PM Modi to Rahul Gandhi: Leaders Across Political Spectrum Mark Constitution Day Today

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Constitution Day
Constitution Day

Constitution Day 2026: Political leaders from across party lines shared tributes to India’s Constitution on November 26, marking the annual celebration of its adoption in 1949, though their messages reflected divergent perspectives on constitutional values and challenges.

PM Modi’s Message on Constitution Day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized strengthening constitutional values through citizen action.

“On Constitution Day, we pay tribute to the framers of our Constitution. Their vision and foresight continue to motivate us in our pursuit of building a Viksit Bharat. Our Constitution gives utmost importance to human dignity, equality and liberty. While it empowers us with rights, it also reminds us of our duties as citizens, which we should always try to fulfil. These duties are the foundation of a strong democracy,” PM Modi stated on X.

“Let us reiterate our commitment to strengthening constitutional values through our actions,” Modi added.

Opposition’s Protective Pledge

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, characterized the Constitution as fundamental protection for vulnerable populations. “The promise is that s/he will get equality, justice and respect, irrespective of religion or caste, region or language, or whether s/he is rich or poor,” he said.

Gandhi positioned constitutional protection as his personal responsibility: “The Constitution is the shield of the poor and the oppressed, their power and every citizen’s voice. As long as the Constitution is safe, every citizen is safe. Let us pledge that we won’t allow any attack on the Constitution. Protecting it is my duty, and I will stand in the way of every blow directed at it.”

Federal Structure Concerns

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee honored the Constitution’s framers, including chief architect BR Ambedkar, while expressing concerns about current challenges. “I believe our Constitution is the backbone of our nation that masterfully weaves together the immense diversity of our cultures, languages, and communities into an integrated, federal whole,” she stated.

In an apparent reference to the central government, Banerjee warned: “Now, when democracy is at stake, when secularism is in an endangered situation, when federalism is being bulldozed, at this critical time, we must protect the valuable guidance that our Constitution provides.”

The statements reflect ongoing political tensions regarding constitutional interpretation and implementation across India’s political spectrum.