Thackeray Reunion, BJP Leadership Change, and More: Top 10 News Stories from India

New Delhi, July 6, 2025: India witnessed a historic reunion of the Thackeray cousins in Maharashtra, a leadership transition in Telangana’s BJP, and the launch of AIADMK’s 2026 campaign. Alongside, the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, a World Bank report highlighting India’s gender equality strides, and monsoon-related tragedies in Himachal Pradesh captured headlines. From terror suspect arrests to judicial rulings and accidents during religious processions, here’s a roundup of Yesterday's top 10 news stories.

1) Thackeray Cousins Reunite After 20 Years in Mumbai
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray shared a stage for the first time in nearly two decades at a Mumbai rally, celebrating the rollback of a controversial three-language policy mandating Hindi in schools. Raj humorously credited CM Devendra Fadnavis for uniting them, a feat even Balasaheb Thackeray couldn’t achieve, hinting at a potential alliance for upcoming BMC polls.

2) N Ramachander Rao Appointed Telangana BJP President
N Ramachander Rao took charge as the new Telangana BJP president, signaling a strategic shift as the party gears up for future elections. His appointment aims to strengthen the BJP’s foothold in the state amid growing political competition.

3) AIADMK Unveils New Logo, Launches 2026 Campaign
AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami launched a new party logo and kicked off the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly election campaign with a scathing attack on the ruling DMK, accusing it of governance failures. The move sets the stage for a heated electoral battle.

4) Dalai Lama Turns 90, Vows to Continue Defying China
On his 90th birthday, the Dalai Lama reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for Tibetan autonomy, defying China’s pressures. The spiritual leader’s milestone was celebrated globally, with messages of support pouring in from India and beyond.

5) India Ranks Fourth in Global Gender Equality: World Bank
A World Bank report declared India the fourth most gender-equal country globally, highlighting progress in education, workforce participation, and policy reforms. The ranking underscores India’s efforts to bridge gender gaps despite ongoing challenges.

6) Zakir Naik-Inspired Terror Suspect Arrested in Andhra Pradesh
A terror suspect, allegedly inspired by Zakir Naik, was arrested in Andhra Pradesh for involvement in plots including the Bengaluru blasts and an attempted attack on LK Advani’s Rath Yatra. The arrest raises concerns about radicalization networks.

7) Delhi Court Declares Sanjay Bhandari a Fugitive Economic Offender
A Delhi special court declared UK-based arms consultant Sanjay Bhandari a fugitive economic offender in a money laundering case linked to arms deals. The ruling marks a significant step in India’s crackdown on financial crimes.

8) Monsoon Wreaks Havoc in Himachal Pradesh
Torrential rains in Himachal Pradesh claimed 72 lives, left 40 missing, and blocked over 500 roads. The state continues to grapple with the devastating impact of the monsoon, with relief and rescue operations underway.

9) Tragic Electrocution During Muharram Procession in Bihar
One person died and 24 were injured due to electrocution during a Muharram procession in Bihar’s Darbhanga district. The incident highlights safety concerns during large public gatherings.

10) 36 Amarnath Yatra Pilgrims Injured in Jammu Bus Collision
A convoy of buses carrying Amarnath Yatra pilgrims collided in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district, injuring 36 people. Authorities are investigating the cause as pilgrims continue their spiritual journey.

Keywords: Thackeray reunion, Raj Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray, Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra politics, BJP Telangana, N Ramachander Rao, AIADMK 2026 campaign, Dalai Lama 90, India gender equality, World Bank report, Zakir Naik terror suspect, Sanjay Bhandari fugitive, Himachal monsoon deaths, Muharram electrocution, Amarnath Yatra accident