Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised to convene with leading economists and sectoral experts on Tuesday to seek their inputs for the Union Budget 2025-26, a senior government official revealed. The Budget, slated for presentation in the Lok Sabha by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2025, is expected to focus on economic growth and fiscal consolidation.

This consultative meeting will also see the participation of NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery and other senior members of the Aayog. Such pre-budget engagements have been a hallmark of PM Modi’s governance, ensuring diverse perspectives are incorporated into fiscal planning.

Jaishankar Heads to U.S. Amid Transition

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar embarks on a six-day visit to the United States starting Tuesday. This trip marks the first high-profile diplomatic engagement following Donald Trump’s electoral victory in November. Trump will assume office for his second presidential term on January 20, 2025. While no confirmation has been made regarding Jaishankar’s interaction with Trump’s team, the visit holds significance for bilateral ties during this transition.

Protests Against Shah’s Remarks Gain Momentum

The Congress party announced nationwide Babasaheb Ambedkar Samman Marches on Tuesday, demanding the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The party alleges that Shah’s comments during the constitutional debate in Parliament disrespected Ambedkar and undermined constitutional values. Congress general secretary K.C. Venugopal has stated that memoranda will be submitted to the President of India through district collectors.

The protests come as part of a broader political strategy, with key events such as the Congress Working Committee meeting in Belagavi on December 26 and the ‘Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan’ rally on December 27.

The BSP, led by Mayawati, has also announced nationwide protests over Shah’s remarks, accusing both the BJP and Congress of exploiting Ambedkar’s legacy for electoral gain. Mayawati called for peaceful demonstrations across district headquarters, urging unity against what she described as political disrespect towards Ambedkar’s contributions.

Parliament Clash Sparks Investigation

The Delhi Police Crime Branch is expected to visit Parliament on Tuesday to investigate a clash that resulted in injuries to BJP MPs Pratap Chandra Sarangi and Mukesh Rajput on December 19. The confrontation arose during heated debates between Opposition and NDA members over Shah’s remarks.

The BJP has accused Rahul Gandhi of incitement, while the Congress leader has denied these allegations. The police have registered a case and transferred the investigation to the Crime Branch, signaling the seriousness of the incident.

This latest development adds to the political tension surrounding Shah’s comments and the ensuing nationwide protests.