Wed Apr 02 01:09:42 UTC 2025: ## INDIA Bloc to Debate, Not Protest, Waqf Bill; Markets Dip on Tariff Fears
**New Delhi, April 2, 2025** – The INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties, has decided to forgo protests and walkouts regarding the contentious Waqf (amendment) Bill. Instead, they will actively participate in parliamentary debates and push for a vote, forcing NDA allies and other undecided members to publicly state their positions. This strategy was decided at a meeting Tuesday evening.
Meanwhile, the first day of the new financial year saw a negative market response, with frontline stock indices falling nearly 2% amid concerns over upcoming US global tariffs. Gold prices, conversely, reached a record high as investors sought a safe haven.
Other news highlights include:
* **Telangana Land Allotment Under Scrutiny:** The Telangana High Court will hear petitions Wednesday challenging the allocation of 400 acres of land to the Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation Limited, with petitioners seeking a halt to ongoing land clearing.
* **Delhi Air Quality Data Questioned:** A CAG report reveals that the locations of Delhi’s air quality monitoring stations do not meet CPCB requirements, potentially compromising the accuracy of AQI data.
* **Summons for Comedian Kunal Kamra:** Police have issued a third summons to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, requiring him to appear on April 5th regarding alleged derogatory remarks against Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister.
* **India-China Relations at 75:** Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated India on the 75th anniversary of bilateral relations, emphasizing cooperation. President Murmu echoed the sentiment, highlighting the importance of stable and amicable ties.
* **Call to Raise OBC Creamy Layer Income Limit:** A parliamentary committee recommends raising the ₹8 lakh income limit for the OBC creamy layer, citing its inadequacy.
* **Supreme Court Orders Compensation for Demolition Victims:** Following a Supreme Court ruling ordering ₹10 lakh compensation for each of five homeowners whose houses were demolished in Prayagraj in 2021, opposition parties in Uttar Pradesh criticized the state government and the Prayagraj Development Authority.
* **Punjab Kings Triumph in IPL:** Punjab Kings defeated Lucknow Super Giants by eight wickets in an IPL match, thanks to a strong performance from Prabhsimran Singh.
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