India’s tax system has undergone significant changes over the decades, shifting from a complex and fragmented structure to a more streamlined approach. While direct taxes now contribute a greater share of government revenue, indirect taxes remain an essential part of India’s fiscal strategy. However, their regressive nature disproportionately affects lower-income households, raising concerns about economic equity.

Starting April 1, 2026, the Income Tax Department will have the authority to access individuals’ digital spaces—including social media accounts, personal emails, bank accounts and online investment platforms—if they suspect tax evasion or possession of undisclosed assets.

The health outcomes of India’s tribal populations lag behind the national average, according to an IndiaSpend analysis of government data. More tribal children die in early childhood, and many of those who survive suffer from malnutrition.

The Supreme Court told the Gujarat Police to respect freedom of speech and expression, especially 75 years after the Constitution came into force. The police had registered a case against Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi, accusing him of posting content that allegedly incited unrest. The Court made this remark while reserving its verdict on Pratapgarhi’s petition seeking to quash the case.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has urged the people of the state to have children immediately after marriage, arguing that the state’s success in family planning has put it at a disadvantage in terms of political representation. The call comes amid concerns over the upcoming delimitation exercise, which will redraw parliamentary constituencies based on population.

The Supreme Court has sought a response from the central government regarding a petition challenging the practice of taking down social media posts without prior notice or a fair hearing for the content creator. The petition, filed by the Software Freedom Law Centre (SFLC), argues that this practice violates principles of natural justice and the right to free speech under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.

The University Grants Commission’s (UGC) newly proposed regulations on caste discrimination in higher education have drawn criticism on two main fronts: first, for not providing clear, specific descriptions of discriminatory actions; and second, for introducing penalties for “false” claims.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has recently intensified its outreach to Sufi Muslims, following engagements with the economically and socially marginalised Pasmanda Muslims. The effort seemingly aims to counter the influence of other Islamic sects and to solidify political support within some Muslim communities. But one might ask why it hasn’t embraced a very similar spiritual tradition known as Bhakti.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has ordered a three-month deadline for law enforcement to eliminate drugs from the state. Given that Punjab has struggled with a deep-rooted drug problem for decades, the idea of “eradicating” it within such a short time is not only unrealistic but also risks leading to heavy-handed measures that could cause more harm than good.