Pre-election tensions in Maharashtra peaked as BJP National General Secretary Vinod Tawde faced FIR over alleged Rs. 5 crore cash distribution, with Rs. 9 lakh recovered from his hotel room. The story evolved from morning allegations to evening counter-accusations of Bitcoin involvement.
Delhi's air crisis reached new extremes, with most monitoring stations touching 500 AQI. Environment Minister Gopal Rai sought Centre's approval for artificial rain, while studies revealed thermal power plants contribute 16 times more pollution than stubble burning.
Air India faced criticism over multiple flight issues, including passengers stranded in Phuket for 80 hours. The incident gained attention as Delhi's smog forced flight diversions.
India-China relations showed movement as both countries discussed resuming direct flights following Foreign Minister meetings at G20. Putin's planned India visit was announced, his first since the Ukraine war began.