INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 21ST JULY 2025

Summary of Important News Items and Editorials-43

INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 21ST JULY 2025.

1.     Opposition Flags Pahalgam Attack, Bihar SIR; Government Asserts House Must Function

The opposition, led by the INDIA bloc, escalated its protest in Parliament by raising the Pahalgam terror incident and the special investment region (SIR) issue in Bihar, accusing the Centre of failing to ensure security and development. They demanded a structured debate and immediate ministerial statements. The government, however, reiterated that parliamentary proceedings must continue unhindered and urged the opposition to allow legislative business. The ruling party accused the opposition of obstructing governance with politicized disruptions. The confrontation reflects a deeper political tussle in the run-up to upcoming state elections. The government’s stance was firm on maintaining the sanctity of parliamentary function, while the opposition insisted on accountability, thus setting the tone for a turbulent session where political optics and legislative productivity appear on a collision course.

2.     India-UK Trade Pact, Maldives Ties to Dominate PM’s Visit This Week

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming diplomatic tour will focus on advancing India’s strategic and economic partnerships with the UK and Maldives. In London, the priority is finalizing the long-pending India-UK free trade agreement, stalled by issues like services and mobility. The visit signifies India’s efforts to conclude high-value trade deals post-Brexit while reinforcing ties with Commonwealth partners. In the Maldives, Modi aims to stabilize bilateral relations, recently strained due to the new Maldivian government’s pivot toward China. India is expected to extend infrastructure and defence cooperation to maintain regional influence. The visit reflects New Delhi’s balancing of geopolitical priorities—pursuing economic gains in the West while securing its maritime interests in the Indian Ocean. Overall, this week’s diplomacy underscores India’s ambition to shape global trade flows and counter regional strategic shifts.