BJP attacked Congress, alleging its 1974 decision to cede Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka harmed Tamil fishermen and Catholics, and criticized the new Kerala UDF government's excise duty cut on low-alcohol liquor, claiming it will boost consumption and reduce state revenue.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah defended the region's liquor policy, stating shops are for those whose religion permits consumption. His comments come amid a 100-day anti-drug campaign, with calls to extend it to liquor. Abdullah highlighted his government's efforts to prevent youth from consuming alcohol, including not opening new shops.
Delhi High Court dismissed petitions by AAP leaders including former CM Arvind Kejriwal seeking recusal of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma in the liquor policy case. The judge refused to step down, warning that allowing politicians to judge judicial competence based on 'personal perception' would set a 'disturbing precedent'. Justice Sharma termed the recusal demand an 'act of surrender' and emphasized that a judge cannot be 'intimidated by a litigant'. The court will now hear the matter on April 29.
