India Today’s News Menu: NDA Summit, Shah’s Maharashtra Tour, and More

From political maneuvering to Bollywood drama, India Today serves up a spicy menu of news for May 25th.

Political Platter: NDA Unity

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is gathering NDA Chief Ministers in Delhi for a crucial meeting at The Ashoka Hotel. The aim? To project a united front ahead of the crucial Bihar assembly elections. This comes as regional dynamics shift, and the coalition led by Nitish Kumar’s JDU seeks to solidify its position.

Controversy Curry: BJP MP Sparks Outrage

BJP MP Ramchandra Jangra has landed himself in hot water with controversial remarks about the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Jangra claimed women who lost their “sindoor” weren’t brave enough and could have saved lives by fighting back. India Today explores how these inflammatory statements are fueling outrage, especially as the Bihar polls approach.

Bihar Masala: Lalu Family’s Social Media Scramble

The Lalu family is making headlines for a peculiar reason: a social media scandal. Tej Pratap Yadav claims his Facebook page was hacked, leading to a photo of him with a woman being posted and then deleted – only to reappear. The RJD leader, reportedly in the Maldives, issued a swift disclaimer.

National Brew: Modi’s Mann Ki Baat

At 11 AM today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation through his monthly radio program, Mann Ki Baat. Expect insights on governance and national unity as the NDA gears up for upcoming elections.

Maharashtra Mix: Amit Shah’s Busy Itinerary

Union Home Minister Amit Shah kicks off a three-day tour of Maharashtra today. His itinerary is packed: from attending a program at the Nagpur Cancer Institute to laying the foundation stone for a National Forensics University sub-centre. Shah will also visit Nanded and Mumbai, participating in various events at prominent locations.

Health Alert: Covid’s Mild Comeback

A surge in Covid-19 cases, driven by the JN.1 variant, is being reported across several states, including Kerala, Mumbai, Delhi, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Experts believe this variant is causing milder infections, although there have been some reported deaths. Telangana’s Health Minister has reviewed the situation, and hospitals are ensuring sufficient beds and oxygen availability. India Today advises caution but stresses there’s no need for panic.

Monsoon Mix: Weather Whiplash

India is experiencing a variety of weather patterns. Delhi-NCR braces for gusty winds and hailstorms, while Kerala is facing heavy rains and crop damage due to early monsoon arrival. Rajasthan sizzles with temperatures exceeding 45C, while Odisha finds some relief in pre-monsoon showers. It’s a wild weather mix across the country.

Glamour Garnish: Miss World Drama

The Miss World 2024 pageant is facing controversy as Miss England abruptly withdrew, citing “family issues.” She later told a British tabloid she felt “like a prostitute” during the event in India. Organisers are now under scrutiny as the situation unfolds.

Cricket Curry: IPL 2025 Action

Today’s IPL 2025 matches include Gujarat Titans vs. Chennai Super Kings in Ahmedabad at 3:30 PM and Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Sunrisers Hyderabad in Delhi at 7:30 PM. India Today brings you all the latest updates from the cricket pitch.

Global Ghee: Bangladesh’s Political Stir

Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Md Yunus, has issued a statement reaffirming Yunus as Chief Adviser after an emergency meeting amidst political turmoil. Indrajit Kundu is tracking developments.

Punjab Pickle: AAP MLA’s Corruption Case

Punjab AAP MLA Raman Arora has been sent to five-day police custody after his arrest by the Vigilance Bureau on corruption charges. Accused of defrauding people with municipal officials, AAP claims swift action has been taken in the case.

Tamil Nadu Tadka: Stalin’s NITI Aayog Push

Tamil Nadu CM Stalin attended the NITI Aayog meet, prompting criticism from the AIADMK. Udhayanidhi Stalin defended the move, stating they’re not afraid of “ED or Modi” and are securing rightful state funds.

Parting Bite: Shimla Tourism Booms

As temperatures soar in the plains, Shimla is seeing a surge in tourists seeking respite in the mountains. Hotel occupancy has jumped, and Manali is regaining its charm with increased tourist arrivals and improved hotel bookings. Where will you be escaping to this summer?