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‘I am completely depressed’: Tej Pratap Yadav rejects ‘blessed with child’ claim | India News


'I am completely depressed': Tej Pratap Yadav rejects 'blessed with child' claim
Janshakti Janta Dal chief Tej Pratap Yadav

NEW DELHI: Former Bihar minister and Lalu Prasad Yadav‘s estranged son Tej Pratap Yadav on Sunday refuted social media posts which claimed that he has been “blessed with a daughter”, Anushka Yadav.During a press conference, Tej Pratap dubbed RJD MP Sanjay Yadav, MLC Sunil Singh, former MLAs Shakti Singh Yadav and Mukesh Raushan, and Rameez — a close friend of Tejashwi Yadav — as “Jaichands” (a metaphor for traitors, referring to a 10th-century Rajput chieftain who had colluded with Afghan invader Muhammad Ghori) and accused them of hatching a conspiracy against him.Notably, Sanjay Yadav is a sitting RJD MP and Sunil Singh is an MLC, while Shakti Singh Yadav and Mukesh Raushan are former MLAs, and Rameez is a close friend of Tejashwi Yadav, the younger sibling of Tej Pratap, who was recently elevated to the post of the party’s national working president.Also read | ‘Reject this’: Tej Pratap Yadav rubbishes child rumours, says no link with woman named in past Facebook post“I am distraught at rumours on social media that a woman with whom I had been falsely linked several months ago, which resulted in my expulsion from the party, has given birth to my child,” Tej Pratap said.“There has been some suspense about who the Jaichands I have been speaking about are. Here are the names — Mukesh Raushan, Sanjay Yadav, Shakti Singh Yadav, Rameez and Sunil Singh,” he added.He also vowed to take legal action against the “Jaichands”, including a Rajya Sabha MP and a member of the legislative council.“I reject this (blessed with a child) claim. This is a conspiracy hatched by Mukesh Raushan and all these ‘jaichands’ in collusion to defame me. It should be investigated who Akash Bhati is, who has a relationship with that girl. This should be investigated, not what kind of relationship she has with him. What kind of relationship does that girl have with him?” Tej Pratap said.“Akash Bhati will tell you. Mukesh Raushan, Shakti Singh and Sunil Singh are all ‘jaichands’; this is all their game, to conspire against us. Now, let them explain what the relationship is between Anushka Yadav and Akash Bhati; they will tell you. I am completely depressed. We will submit our application, we will go to court,” he added.Last year, Tej Pratap was ousted from the party and his family after he shared a photo with a woman on Facebook and claimed he had been in a relationship with her for 12 years.However, Tej Pratap later claimed that his Facebook account had been “hacked” and said the post was part of an attempt to “defame and harass” him and his family.Tej Pratap later founded his own party — Janshakti Janata Dal — which drew a blank in the Bihar assembly elections.



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Sachin Tendulkar applauds USA fight, praises Suryakumar Yadav’s match-winning knock | Cricket News


Sachin Tendulkar applauds USA fight, praises Suryakumar Yadav's match-winning knock
India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav, and his teammates walks off the field after India won the T20 World Cup cricket match in Mumbai, India (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar praised Team India’s 29-run win over the United States in the opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. While he lauded Suryakumar Yadav’s match-winning innings, Sachin also acknowledged the USA team for their spirited and energetic performance against the defending champions.India’s campaign began on a positive note with a hard-fought victory, as the USA pushed the Men in Blue but ultimately fell short by 29 runs. The match was largely decided by Suryakumar Yadav, whose brilliant 84 off 49 balls rescued India from 77/6 and helped post a competitive total of 161/9 in their 20 overs. He was the only batter to reach a half-century, displaying remarkable composure under pressure.

T20 World Cup | Suryakumar Yadav press conference – On Harshit Rana, ‘nerves’, strategy

Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar post

Sachin shared his thoughts on X, applauding both India’s finish and the USA’s fight. “A tense start, but a calm finish for Team India. When new teams step up to the occasion, cricket’s global rise accelerates — @usacricket did that yesterday, and their energy and enthusiasm was promising! They came close to giving us some nervous moments, but @surya_14kumar’s experience and composure under pressure guided India to a respectable total. Our bowlers did the rest for us. Well done Team India, always good to start on a winning note!”During India’s innings, Suryakumar Yadav smashed 10 fours and four sixes. Ishan Kishan contributed 20 off 16 balls, hitting one four and two sixes, while Tilak Varma added 25 from 16 deliveries with three fours and a six. Shadley van Schalkwyk (4/29) and Harmeet Singh (2/26) were the main wicket-takers for the USA.Chasing 162, the USA fell short at 132/8. Milind Kumar made 34 off 34 balls, Sanjay Krishnamurthi scored 37 from 31 with two sixes and a four, and Shubham Ranjane hit 37 off 22 balls, including three sixes. India’s bowlers, led by Mohammed Siraj (3/29), Axar Patel (2/24), and Arshdeep Singh (2/18), ensured the visitors could not get close to the target.India thus began their T20 World Cup title defence with a win, thanks to Surya’s composure and a collective team effort.



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‘Team with all the balances’: Former India captain Sourav Ganguly predicts T20 World Cup 2026 winner | Cricket News


Sourav Ganguly (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has praised the current Indian T20 team, saying they look strong and well-balanced in every department. He believes the Suryakumar Yadav-led side has what it takes to win the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and should be considered favourites.Talking to reporters, Ganguly highlighted how complete the team looks with both bat and ball, as well as in the field. He said, “This is a very powerful and strong team with all the balances – bowling, batting, and fielding. As the World Cup goes, they will get better. They are the favourites to win the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup,” showing strong confidence in India’s chances.

Jagannath Sarkar on ISPL season 3 win, MVP award and special moment with Sachin Tendulkar

He also praised captain Suryakumar Yadav, especially for his recent form and leadership. Speaking about Suryakumar’s performance, Ganguly said, “He came in this tournament after scoring a lot of runs. He is a champion T20 player.”In India’s match against the USA at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 8, India were asked to bat first and scored 161 runs for 9 wickets in 20 overs. Suryakumar led from the front with an unbeaten 84 off 49 balls, playing a calm and powerful innings when the team needed him most. Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma also added useful runs to push India to a competitive total. For the USA, Shadley van Schalkwyk and Harmeet Singh were the standout bowlers.Chasing 162, the USA fought hard but could only reach 132 for 8, losing the match by 29 runs. Milind Kumar, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, and Shubham Ranjane tried to keep the chase alive with good knocks, but Indian bowlers Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, and Arshdeep Singh took key wickets to seal the win.Overall, Ganguly’s comments reflect growing belief that this Indian team could go all the way in the World Cup.



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SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction Today Match, Dream11 Team Today, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update- ICC T20 World Cup 2026, Match 7


The morning clash on 9th February at 11:00 AM IST will see Scotland meeting Italy in the seventh match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Get the best SCO vs ITA Dream11 prediction, fantasy cricket tips, probable playing XI, and match insights for the 7th match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Expert analysis and more.

SCO vs ITA Match Preview:

Scotland will be squaring off against Italy in the seventh match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Monday, 9 February 2026 at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with the match scheduled to begin at 11:00 AM IST. Therefore, this clash will carry strong importance for Scotland as they will aim to bounce back after a slow start, while Italy will look to begin their World Cup journey with confidence and positive energy.

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Scotland are currently placed in third position on the points table of Group C, and they have played one match in the tournament so far. However, Italy will play their opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, and they will look to deliver an impactful performance right from the start. Moreover, Scotland will focus on tightening their bowling plans, while Italy will aim to surprise them with fearless batting and smart execution.

Also Read: India to skip practice in Delhi as injury worries grow in T20 World Cup 2026

Scotland and Italy have faced each other in 16 matches in T20 so far. Out of these 16 games, Scotland have won 4 matches, whereas Italy have secured victory on 9 occasions. Additionally, 2 matches ended without a result, while 1 match ended in a tie. Consequently, Italy will enter this fixture with a psychological advantage, while Scotland will look to improve their record and secure crucial points.

SCO vs ITA Head-to-Head Record:

Teams

Matches Won

Scotland

4

Italy

9

SCO vs ITA Weather & Pitch Report:

Temperature

17°C

Weather Forecast

Sunny

Pitch Behaviour

Batting-friendly

Best Suited To

Pace

Average 1st innings score

175

Record of chasing teams:

Records

Good

Winning %

61%

SCO vs ITA Playing 11s (Predicted):

Scotland Playing 11:

1) Matthew Cross (wk)

2) George Munsey

3) Brandon McMullen

4) Richie Berrington ©

5) Michael Jones

6) Tom Bruce

7) Chris Greaves

8) Michael Leask

9) Mark Watt

10) Safyaan Sharif

11) Brad Currie

Italy Playing 11:

1) Emilio Gay

2) Justin Mosca (wk)

3) Gareth Berg ©

4) Marcus Campopiano

5) Harry Manenti

6) Benjamin Manenti

7) Grant Stewart

8) Jaspreet Singh

9) Thomas Draca

10) Hasan Ali

11) Crishan Kalugamage

Hot Picks for SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips:

Captaincy Picks:

George Munsey – Opening the innings for Scotland as a left-handed batter, he contributed 19 runs in the previous match while continuing to provide aggressive intent at the top.

Brandon McMullen – Representing Scotland as a right-handed batter and right-arm medium-fast bowler, he added 14 runs in the last match while continuing to offer valuable all-round balance.

Top Picks:

Brandon McMullen – Representing Scotland as a right-handed batter and right-arm medium-fast bowler, he added 14 runs in the last match while continuing to offer valuable all-round balance.

JJ Smuts – Representing Italy as a right-handed batter and left-arm orthodox spinner, he adds valuable experience and all-round stability through composed batting and controlled spin bowling.

Budget Picks:

Tom Bruce – Operating in Scotland’s middle order as a right-handed batter, he provides stability through composed batting, smart strike rotation, and reliable game awareness.

Justin Mosca – Expected to open the innings for Italy as a left-handed batter, he offers positive intent at the top along with composed stroke play and early-innings stability.

SCO vs ITA ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

Captain

Brandon McMullen & George Munsey

Vice-Captain

JJ Smuts & Harry J Manenti

SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction Team 1:

  • Keepers – Matthew Cross, George Meade
  • Batters – Richie Berrington, William Madsen, George Munsey
  • All-rounders – JJ Smuts (vc), Grant Stewart, Harry Manenti, Brandon McMullen ©
  • Bowlers – Mark Watt, Benjamin Manenti
SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Dream11 Team ICC T20 World Cup 2026
SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction

SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction Team 2:

  • Keeper – Tom Bruce, George Meade
  • Batters – Richie Berrington, George Munsey ©, Justin Mosca
  • All-rounders – JJ Smuts, Grant Stewart, Harry Manenti (vc), Brandon McMullen
  • Bowlers – Mark Watt, Benjamin Manenti
SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Dream11 Team ICC T20 World Cup 2026
SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction

SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction Today Match 7 ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Players to Avoid:

Players

Dream11 Credits

Dream11 Points (Last match)

Zain Naqvi

6.0 credits

NA

Chris McBride

7.0 credits

NA

SCO vs ITA Dream11 Prediction Today Match 7 ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Expert Advice:

SL Captaincy Choice

Brandon McMullen

GL Captaincy Choice

George Munsey

Punt Picks

Justin Mosca and Tom Bruce

Dream11 Combination

2-2-4-2-3

SCO vs ITA Match Winner Prediction:

Considering the team combination, Scotland is expected to win this match.



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To curb traffic and pollution, BJP corporator pushes for congestion tax in Mumbai’s biz hubs | Mumbai News


BJP neta pushes for congestion tax in Mumbai’s biz hubs

MUMBAI: BJP corporator Makarand Narwekar has urged BMC to come out with a policy to implement congestion tax in the central business districts like south Mumbai and use the revenue generated to improve the city’s air quality. He wants BMC to tax private vehicles with single occupants entering high-traffic zones.Last year, MMRDA had discussed a proposal to levy a congestion fee on vehicles that spend 50 minutes or less in Bandra-Kurla Complex to ease traffic congestion in the area. However, the proposal has not moved ahead.Transport experts believe that congestion pricing is a good idea for Mumbai, if it is implemented in a holistic manner. Amit Bhatt, India managing director of The International Council on Clean Transportation, said globally, cities are trying to manage the number of vehicles on the roads. Even car-producing countries like China have restricted the number of vehicles registered. One way of managing the number of vehicles on the roads is by restricting the registration of vehicles, and the other way is by imposing congestion tax. Cities like London, New York, and Singapore have congestion tax to manage the number of vehicles on the roads. “If the number of vehicles increase beyond threshold, the city will be gridlocked. Unlike the West, we have heterogeneous vehicles on the road. The policy should be implemented in a slightly holistic manner and the money generated should be used for sustainable transport,” he said.Endorsing the idea of congestion pricing, A V Shenoy of Mumbai Mobility Forum, said: “About 400-500 vehicles are registered every day and whatever flyovers you build, they will not be able to accommodate these many vehicles. However, what is required is good public transport for those who don’t get cars. Congestion pricing and good public transport should go hand in hand.”Narwekar suggested that high-traffic zones could be demarcated using existing CCTV networks and Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras at entry points. “BMC should identify traffic-prone spots in the city and deliberate on the idea of congestion tax by charging vehicles for entering high-traffic zones. There should be a facility for automatic deduction via FASTag at checkpoints. This policy can be implemented in congested central business districts like south Mumbai on a pilot basis. This tax will also discourage unnecessary vehicle usage and encourage public transportation,” the BP corporator added.

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Watch: Team India visits Gautam Gambhir’s residence for dinner amid T20 World Cup campaign | Cricket News


Watch: Team India visits Gautam Gambhir’s residence for dinner amid T20 World Cup campaign
Team India arrives at the residence of Indian Cricket Team Head Coach Gautam Gambhir (ANI Video Grab)

NEW DELHI: Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir hosted a special dinner at his residence in New Delhi on Sunday, ahead of India’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match against Namibia on February 12 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. BCCI Vice President Rajiv Shukla was also present at the gathering, which came as the team prepared for their second group-stage match of the tournament.Watch:India began their T20 World Cup campaign with a solid win against the United States at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 7. Batting first, India posted a competitive total of 161 runs for 9 wickets in 20 overs.Captain Suryakumar Yadav led from the front with a brilliant unbeaten 84 off 49 balls, anchoring the innings after India lost early wickets. Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma also made useful contributions to help the team reach a defendable score. For the USA, Shadley van Schalkwyk and Harmeet Singh stood out with the ball, picking up key wickets.In reply, the USA fought hard but were restricted to 132 for 8 in their 20 overs, losing the match by 29 runs. Milind Kumar, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, and Shubham Ranjane played fighting innings to keep the chase alive, but Indian bowlers Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, and Arshdeep Singh took important wickets to seal the victory.With the opening win under their belt, the defending champions will now look to continue their momentum when they take on Namibia in Delhi. The dinner hosted by Gambhir was seen as a team-bonding moment as India gears up for the crucial match on home soil.



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Chocolate Day Wishes & Quotes: 75+ Happy Chocolate Day Messages, Greetings, Wishes and Quotes for 2026 |


75+ Happy Chocolate Day Messages, Greetings, Wishes and Quotes for 2026

Valentine’s Week transforms February into a seven-day love fest, building anticipation for the big Valentine’s Day finale on February 14. Kicking off with Rose Day (Feb 7)—where red roses symbolise one’s love and passion—followed by Propose Day (Feb 8) for bold confessions, the week has various special days: Teddy Day (Feb 10), Promise Day (Feb 11), Hug Day (Feb 12), and Kiss Day (Feb 13). Each day spotlights a unique love language, turning ordinary moments into romantic rituals. The third day of the Valentine Week is celebrated as Chocolate Day. And this year, it is being celebrated on February 9, 2026 (Monday). On this day, lovers exchange bars, truffles, or homemade brownies—dark for intensity, milk for comfort, white for purity. Why chocolate? Because for most people, a bite of chocolate often feels like an instant hug.This Feb 9, let chocolate whisper what words fumble. Here we list some Chocolate Day messages, wishes, greetings and quotes you can send to your loved one to make them feel special:

For your partner

1. Happy Chocolate Day, my sweetest!”2. “You’re my dark chocolate—intense, addictive, perfect. Happy Chocolate Day!”3. “Life with you is sweeter than any truffle. Happy Chocolate Day, love.”4. “This chocolate melts in mouth; you melt my heart. Happy Chocolate Day!”5. “Roses are red, chocolates are sweet, you’re my forever treat. Happy Chocolate Day!”6. “Bitter days vanish with you around. Happy Chocolate Day, my sugar.”7. “You’re 70% cocoa, 30% perfection. Happy Chocolate Day, baby!”8. “Chocolates today, forever tomorrow. Happy Chocolate Day, darling.”9. “Your love’s my favorite flavor. Happy Chocolate Day!”10. “Sweeter than Nutella, hotter than chili chocolate. Happy Chocolate Day!”11. “This chocolate’s just a preview of my love. Happy Chocolate Day!”12.”You’re my guilty pleasure, every single day. Happy Chocolate Day!”13. “Caramels can’t match your sticky-sweet love. Happy Chocolate Day!”14. “Dark like your eyes, sweet like your smile. Happy Chocolate Day!”15. “Chocolates fade; our love lasts. Happy Chocolate Day, forever.”

For Girlfriend/Wife

Chocolate Day

16. “Happy Chocolate Day to the woman who makes life delicious!”17. “You’re my milk chocolate—smooth, comforting, irreplaceable.”18. “Every bite reminds me of your kisses. Happy Chocolate Day!”19. “White chocolate pure like your heart. Happy Chocolate Day, queen.”20. “This box holds 24 chocolates; my love holds infinity. Happy Chocolate Day!”21. “You’re sweeter than any praline. Happy Chocolate Day, beautiful.”22. “Chocolates for my favorite indulgence—you. Happy Chocolate Day!”23. “Your smile’s my sugar rush. Happy Chocolate Day!”24. “From truffles to you: Pure luxury. Happy Chocolate Day!”25. “Happy Chocolate Day to my forever valentine!”26. “You’re the cherry on my chocolate sundae. Happy Chocolate Day!”27. “Baking memories with you, one chocolate at a time.”28. “This chocolate’s fancy; you’re priceless. Happy Chocolate Day!”29. “Happy Chocolate Day to the sweetest part of me!”30. “Love you more than all chocolates combined!”

For Boyfriend/Husband

31″ Happy Chocolate Day to my strong, dark chocolate man!”32. “You’re my coffee-chocolate: Bold and irresistible.”33. “This chocolate fuels my love for you. Happy Chocolate Day!”34. “Happy Chocolate Day, handsome—you’re my treat!”35. “Happy Chocolate Day, my love!”36. “You’re my 85%—intense and perfect. Happy Chocolate Day!”37. “Chocolates today, cuddles tonight. Happy Chocolate Day!”38. “Chocolates melt hearts; you melt mine daily.”39. “Happy Chocolate Day to my forever crush!”40. “You’re smoother than ganache. Happy Chocolate Day!”41. “This chocolate’s good; you’re better. Happy Chocolate Day!”42. “Love you to the moon and back—like chocolate eclairs!”43. “Happy Chocolate Day, king of my heart!”44.”You’re my secret ingredient. Happy Chocolate Day!”45. May your day be as sweet as this chocolate, my dear. Happy Chocolate Day!

For Friends/Family/Crush

46. “Happy Chocolate Day! You’re life’s sweetest friend.”47. “Chocolates for my favorite human. Happy Chocolate Day!”48. “To my chocolate buddy: Endless sweetness! Happy Chocolate Day!”49. “Happy Chocolate Day—may life be as sweet as you!”50. “You’re the friend who makes bitter days sweet.”51. “Sharing chocolates = sharing joy. Happy Chocolate Day!”52. “Happy Chocolate Day to my partner-in-crime!”53. “Life’s better with friends like you (and chocolates).”54. “To my chocolate soulmate—Happy Chocolate Day!”55. “Happy Chocolate Day! Sweet times ahead.”56. “You’re sweeter than any bonbon. Happy Chocolate Day!”57. “Chocolates for the bestie who gets me!”58. “Happy Chocolate Day—let’s make memories!”59. “To family: You’re my comfort chocolate. Happy Day!”60. “Crush alert: This chocolate’s for you! Happy Chocolate Day!”

Chocolate Day quotes

Chocolate Day

61. “Your love is like hot chocolate on a cold day—comforting and sweet.” — Unknown62. “Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’ll get… but with you, it’s always perfection.”— Forrest Gump inspired63. “Chocolate is cheaper than therapy—and you get sweet hugs too.” — Jason Love64 “All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” — Charles M. Schulz65. “You’re my favourite flavour of forever.” — Unknown66. “Chocolate comes from cocoa, which comes from a tree… so technically, chocolate is salad.”— Unknown (for laughs!)“In the cookie of life, you’re the chocolate chips.” — Unknown67. “Love is like swallowing hot chocolate before it cools; risky but sweet.” — Unknown68. “Happiness is a warm chocolate bar shared with you.” — Unknown69. “Chocolate is the answer—who cares what the question is?”— Unknown70. “Your smile tastes like dark chocolate: Rich, bold, unforgettable.”— Unknown71. “Chocolates are like love—they melt under pressure but bond forever.” — Unknown72. “Seven days without chocolate makes one weak.” — Wayne Schuster73. “You’re the cream in my chocolate eclair.” — Unknown74. “Chocolate says ‘I’m thinking of you’… and brings joy!”— Unknown75. “Life without chocolate is like a world without flowers.”— Unknown76. “Our love: 70% cocoa, 30% pure magic.” — Unknown77. “Chocolate is a girl’s best friend—next to diamonds, of course.” — Unknown78. “One chocolate bar won’t kill you, but two? Heaven.” — Unknown79. “To my love: You’re sweeter than any praline, richer than ganache.” — Unknown



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‘Bharat Ratna’s prestige will increase’: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat backs award for VD Savarkar, Congress hits back | India News


RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat (PTI image)

NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said that the prestige of India’s highest civilian award Bharat Ratna would increase if it is conferred to Hindutva ideologue Vinayak Damodar Savarkar.The remark drew an immediate and sharp response from the Congress, which questioned both the merit and the intent behind the demand.

‘1.25 Crore Hindus In Bangladesh’: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Issues Big Unity Call

Speaking at a public interaction in Mumbai to mark the RSS centenary, Bhagwat said that the long-pending demand for honouring Savarkar deserved serious consideration.“Bharat Ratna’s prestige will increase if the award is given to Savarkar,” he said, reiterating a position that has been echoed by sections of the Sangh Parivar and the BJP over the years.Bhagwat commented while responding to questions on a range of issues, including the Uniform Civil Code, nationalism and the role of the RSS in public life. The programme was attended by several prominent personalities from the film and cultural world.

‘On what grounds should he be awarded Bharat Ratna?: Congress launches sharp attack

The Congress reacted strongly to Bhagwat’s statement. Party MP Imran Masood questioned the basis on which Savarkar should be awarded the Bharat Ratna and accused him of contributing to the idea of India’s partition.Speaking to reporters in Varanasi, Masood said, “On what grounds should he be awarded the Bharat Ratna? For what merit? For causing the partition of India and Pakistan?” “It was Savarkar who first propagated the idea of two nations within the country and laid the ideological foundation for the division between India and Pakistan,” he added.The latest exchange comes against the backdrop of a long-standing and politically charged debate over Savarkar’s legacy. While the BJP and its ideological affiliates project him as a freedom fighter and a key ideologue of Hindutva who suffered incarceration under British rule, the Congress has consistently opposed any move to honour him with the Bharat Ratna, citing his controversial views and alleged links to the conspiracy in Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination.The issue first gained major political traction in 2019, when the BJP’s Maharashtra unit included a promise in its election manifesto to seek the Bharat Ratna for Savarkar. The Congress had then hit out sharply, with senior leader Manish Tewari saying that conferring the award on Savarkar, especially around Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, would be deeply inappropriate. At the time, the BJP defended the demand, arguing that Savarkar was a freedom fighter who spent years in harsh imprisonment in the Andaman Cellular Jail and that many national leaders, including BR Ambedkar and Sardar Patel, received the Bharat Ratna long after Independence.The demand resurfaced in 2024 as well, when Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray questioned why the BJP-led Centre had not yet honoured Savarkar despite repeated assurances and letters from BJP leaders themselves. Thackeray said that the ruling party had no right to lecture others on Savarkar if it failed to act on its own promises.



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