VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html 5 fascinating animals that glow in the dark 80 million trees were wiped out in seconds in Siberia after a space rock explosion more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb, but scientists never found a crater Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift are reportedly labelled The Siamese Twins by wild fan theory: “THEY ARE THE SAME F**K**G PERSON” Spain vs Austria Live Score, FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32: Can Lamine Yamal inspire Spain as Austria dream of an upset? Gauahar Khan slams Nikhil Chinapa for creating difference between husband Zaid Darbar and Kushal Tandon; says ‘The Only One Playing Everyone Around Is You’ | A viral video showed two large potholes on the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway. NEW DELHI: NHAI has issued show-cause notices to its project director, a contractor and authority engineer after a video of a section of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway caving in went viral. It said the incident was caused due to “water accumulation”, as the permanent cross-drainage system at the site could not be constructed due to sustained resistance from locals.Officials said the project director has been instructed to fix responsibility for the incident and the authority engineer (AE) has been asked to explain negligence in services. “The team leader of AE (consulting firm) has been suspended. The highway contractor has been asked to explain why it should not be declared as non-performer and debarred from NHAI’s future projects. The contractor’s project manager has been suspended as well,” said an official.On X, NHAI regretted the inconvenience caused to commuters due to the incident following rainfall. “The section has been restored and opened for regular traffic movement,” the authority said.A senior NHAI functionary told TOI that the cave in was spotted by their patrol team near Kheda Mastan village in UP’s Baghpat district around 6.30 am Wednesday. “The route patrolling team observed that the caving in of the road surface happened due to continuous overnight heavy rains,” he said.He added that locals were not allowing the execution of slope protection works because of an ongoing arbitration dispute.TOI has learnt that though locals did not oppose construction of the main expressway and ramps, they didn’t allow protection works in the median portion at two locations. The matter was raised with UP govt, and its officials visited the site four times, but the issue is yet to be resolved.The authority said the incident occurred as the permanent cross-drainage system at the location could not be commissioned due to sustained resistance from local residents, who did not permit integration of the balancing culvert and instead used the culvert opening as a vehicular crossing.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUnesco Warns Pakistan Over ‘Reconstructions’ At Taxila, Threatens Danger ListNHAI Under Fire As Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Develops Major Potholes 3 Months After Inauguration’Insult To Shivaji, Bhagat Singh’: CJP Founder Dipke Demands ACP’s Suspension Over Library RowMission Aagaman Explained: How Vikram-1 Could Make Indian Space History60-Year-Old Mumbai Man Dies After Falling Into Open Manhole, 4 BMC Officials SuspendedIndian Navy’s INS Trikand Thwarts Piracy Attempt On India-Bound Vessel In Gulf Of AdenWest Bengal Passes Tough Public Order Laws: What The Recovery And Preventive Detention Bills MeanJapan PM Takaichi In India: Top 10 Items On The Agenda As She Meets PM Modi54 Years of the Shimla Agreement: Why India Says Pakistan Violated the Spirit of the PactChina’s Proposed Bangladesh Corridor Could Open A New Strategic Route Into The Indian Ocean123Photostories5 superfoods that reduce seasonal hair fall naturally5 reasons devotees cry for Krishna during moments of deep devotionAlia Bhatt redefines airport glam with heritage Gucci tote and classic Frankie Shop layering7 viral techniques people are using to keep mice away without poisonJuly gardening guide: 7 flowers, fruits, and vegetables to plant in the UK”You are putting dead food into a living body”: Sadhguru on impact of eating old bread; 6 healthy desi breakfast alternativesLove quote of the day by Paulo Coelho: ‘Love isn’t just a feeling, it’s an art’Psychology says women who constantly say “Sorry” often have these 8 personality traitsPsychology says you don’t get what you want in life, but what you believe: Expert explainsFrom Oprah Winfrey to Kurt Russell: Celebrity couples who skipped marriage and stayed together123Hot PicksTrump tariffsNHL TradeEPF Scheme 2026NFL TradeIncome Tax Return FilingMumbai rainNovak DjokovicMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingCapgemini Bengaluru DaycareDelhi Hit and RunBengaluru Triple MurderFIFA World Cup 2026EPF Scheme 2026US Iran warBy-election datesConnor McDavidManish TewariLando Norris Jul 02, 2026, 23:19 IST Suniel Shetty left shoot abruptly as soon he heard of Divya Bharti’s death, says Madhoo: ‘He had known her well’ Dr Trump? US President shares AI video prescribing treatment for ‘TDS’ to critics Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei absent from wife’s funeral: Report Jul 02, 2026, 22:54 IST Rajasthan Royals get major relief as HC removes key hurdle to IPL in Jaipur NHL Trade Rumor: Pittsburgh Penguins and New York Rangers linked to $120M Dallas Stars star scorer Vietnamese proverb of the day: “The cat praises its tail to be long” warns us against falling into the trap of self-admiration, arrogance 5 superfoods that reduce seasonal hair fall naturally ‘Called me useless’: 17-year-old strangles wife over ‘repeated taunts’, dumps body with father’s help ‘Give me a snort’: Hong Kong pulls anti-drug AI K-pop video that looked like drug promotion Beyond Uncle Sam? Trump’s Nato rift fuels Canada’s 10-nation global defence bank push Immigrant who said ‘it is cultural to marry a 12-year-old’ and was facing deportation pardoned by Democrats in Minnesota England vs South Africa, Women’s T20 World Cup Semi-final Live Score: Final spot up for grabs at The Oval 5 reasons devotees cry for Krishna during moments of deep devotion Alex Ovechkin’s NHL future in doubt after insider suggests Capitals icon has already played his final game Ohio motel fire kills 3 Indian-origin guests trapped inside room; ‘I woke up to people yelling,’ says witness Woman quits six-figure corporate job to become a waitress at 33, says stress-related IBS disappeared | Anthropic may have just told one of its earliest backers Amazon that using AI is not cheap, as company renegotiates … US capital ready for biggest pyrotechnics in history — in stifling heat Sanjay Leela Bhansali shouted at Aditya Pancholi, threw a chair at a senior artiste when she didn’t get a step: ‘Heard instances about his temper’ Stones, iron rods and bombs: India’s trains face a fresh wave of threats — and the red flags are everywhere Shabir Ahmed: Rochdale grooming gang leader released as deportation loophole sparks fury across the UK | World News ‘What’s our tolerance there?’: Australia ready to risk Ellyse Perry’s fitness for Women’s T20 World Cup final Quote of the day by Stephen Hawking: “I have lived with the prospect of an early death for the last 49 years. I’m not afraid of death, but I’m in no hurry to die” – the secret to living fully despite uncertainty Telegram, Signal under Centre’s scanner over username feature after WhatsApp Indian woman, laid off twice on H-1B visa, says she’s still hopeful: ‘Didn’t come to the US just for a degree or job’ Election Commission of India NEW DELHI: The Election Commission (EC) on Thursday directed rival factions of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) to submit their claims and counterclaims over the party’s authorised signatories and organisational elections.According to officials in the EC, letters have been sent to both Mamata Banerjee and rebel faction leader Ritabrata Banerjee, asking them to submit their responses by 5:30 pm on July 6.The development came on a day when the rebel camp met the full EC bench in the national capital and pressed its claim over the party.Meanwhile, the Mamata Banerjee camp questioned the commission’s decision to grant an audience to the rebels, alleging that the meeting violated the poll panel’s own procedures.Rebel camp on meeting with EC benchSpeaking to reporters after meeting the EC bench, Ritabrata Banerjee said the rebel faction formally presented its case after informing the poll panel about the special organisational session held in Kolkata on June 22.He declined to disclose the documents submitted to the commission but asserted that the organisational session had been conducted in accordance with the rules.He also reiterated the group’s claim that it represents the “real” Trinamool Congress.”We are the real TMC. More than two-thirds of the MLAs are with us. Corporators and municipal councillors are also with us,” he asserted.At least 60 of the TMC’s 80 MLAs, elected in the April Assembly polls, are reportedly aligned with the dissident group.EC acting on behest of Amit Shah, BJPSaugata Roy and Sagarika Ghose of the Mamata Banerjee faction claimed that only authorised signatories of a recognised political party could seek an appointment with the EC and said the “Trinamool Congress” had made no such request, referring to their camp.”The Election Commission had informed all political parties that only authorised signatories can seek a meeting. The AITC did not ask for a meeting. On what basis did the EC grant an appointment to a person expelled by the TMC?” Roy asked, referring to Ritabrata Banerjee.Ghose alleged that the EC was acting at the behest of the ruling BJP and Union home minister Amit Shah. She also argued that the legislative wing was only one branch of the party and could not decide on a merger or split.Drawing a distinction between a political party and its legislative wing, she argued that the legislative wing was only one branch of the organisation and could not decide on a merger or split.”What is this group that doesn’t have a single MP? It got an appointment with the full bench of the Election Commission only because the BJP and Amit Shah are behind it,” she asked.(With PTI inputs)Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosNHAI Under Fire As Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Develops Major Potholes 3 Months After Inauguration’Insult To Shivaji, Bhagat Singh’: CJP Founder Dipke Demands ACP’s Suspension Over Library RowMission Aagaman Explained: How Vikram-1 Could Make Indian Space History60-Year-Old Mumbai Man Dies After Falling Into Open Manhole, 4 BMC Officials SuspendedIndian Navy’s INS Trikand Thwarts Piracy Attempt On India-Bound Vessel In Gulf Of AdenWest Bengal Passes Tough Public Order Laws: What The Recovery And Preventive Detention Bills MeanJapan PM Takaichi In India: Top 10 Items On The Agenda As She Meets PM Modi54 Years of the Shimla Agreement: Why India Says Pakistan Violated the Spirit of the PactChina’s Proposed Bangladesh Corridor Could Open A New Strategic Route Into The Indian OceanBengaluru Daycare Abuse Case Explained: What The Viral Videos And Police Probe Reveal123PhotostoriesJuly gardening guide: 7 flowers, fruits, and vegetables to plant in the UKAlia Bhatt redefines airport glam with heritage Gucci tote and classic Frankie Shop layering7 viral techniques people are using to keep mice away without poison”You are putting dead food into a living body”: Sadhguru on impact of eating old bread; 6 healthy desi breakfast alternativesLove quote of the day by Paulo Coelho: ‘Love isn’t just a feeling, it’s an art’Psychology says women who constantly say “Sorry” often have these 8 personality traitsPsychology says you don’t get what you want in life, but what you believe: Expert explainsFrom Oprah Winfrey to Kurt Russell: Celebrity couples who skipped marriage and stayed togetherFrom a walk-in closet to a massive living room, elegant décor and more: Shivangi Joshi’s luxurious houseFSSAI issues notices to 6 famous beverage brands for claiming ‘energy drink’ and misleading customers: 5 desi energy drinks that deserve a comeback in homes123Hot PicksTrump tariffsNHL TradeEPF Scheme 2026NFL TradeIncome Tax Return FilingMumbai rainNovak DjokovicMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingCapgemini Bengaluru DaycareDelhi Hit and RunBengaluru Triple MurderFIFA World Cup 2026EPF Scheme 2026US Iran warBy-election datesConnor McDavidManish TewariLando Norris Teen electrocuted in waterlogged Mumbra lane; FIR against Torrent Power officials | Thane News Hamas, Hezbollah & Houthis: Low-profile guest list for Khamenei’s funeral reveals how isolated Iran has become Jul 02, 2026, 20:38 IST Shahid Kapoor insisted on air purifiers during Delhi schedule of ‘Cocktail 2’ amid poor AQI, crew member claims: ‘Would just take off the mask before the shot’ 7 viral techniques people are using to keep mice away without poison IMD issues heavy rain alert for Delhi-NCR: Doctor shares how to stay healthy as the weather changes and infection risk rises Tax cuts, pension overhaul and sick leave reforms: Germany launches sweeping economic overhaul The defining questions today are no longer limited to surname, caste or community. They are about emotional maturity, career ambitions, financial compatibility, family expectations, mental health, parenting, equality and shared life goals. For generations, the first question in an arranged marriage was rarely about personality, ambitions or emotional compatibility.It was, “which community?”Caste, sub-caste, religion, family background and horoscope formed the first line of screening. Compatibility came much later, if at all. If a suitable match could not be found within the community, families often waited longer rather than expanding the search.Today, that hierarchy is beginning to change. Across India’s matchmaking ecosystem — from traditional independent matchmakers to curated matrimonial services and intentional dating platforms — one pattern is emerging: compatibility is steadily replacing community as the most valuable currency.This does not mean caste has vanished from the marriage conversation. Far from it. Families still prefer matches within their communities where possible. But increasingly, community is becoming one consideration among many rather than an immovable condition. Shared values, emotional maturity, lifestyle, career ambitions, financial outlook and long-term goals are taking precedence, particularly among educated urban Indians who often make the final decision themselves.The evolution reflects wider social shifts. Indians are marrying later, pursuing demanding careers, living independently across cities and countries, and looking for partners who fit the life they have built rather than merely satisfying social expectations.From biodata to compatibilityFor Gurgaon-based matchmaker Vaini Mehra, founder of Shaadi Vibes, modern matchmaking starts where traditional matchmaking often stopped. Rather than relying primarily on age, salary, height or horoscope, Mehra says she first seeks to understand the person behind the profile.”I connect deeply with the individuals themselves, rather than just their parents, to understand their current lifestyle, career goals, family values and true preferences,” she says.Potential brides and grooms are pushing background checks to avoid confusion later. That has pushed platforms to double down on user intent. Mehra prefers meeting prospective clients personally, either with their families or in a casual setting, before introducing them to a potential partner. She says her database is built only through trusted references.”If I sense that someone is dodging questions or uncomfortable sharing complete information, I will pause their registration until they are fully ready to be transparent,” she adds. That process, she says, enables her to answer questions that algorithms cannot.Sidhharrth S Kumaar, founder of NumroVani, echoes the same sentiment. “The biggest misconception today is that more profiles mean better choices. Most families are not looking for another hundred profiles, they are looking for clarity.” He adds that finding a suitable match is not the end goal but the beginning of a much longer journey. “We don’t see our role ending with an introduction. Relationship coaching is part of our process because marriage is not just about choosing the right person, it’s also about preparing two people for the life that follows.”women reshaping rules of marriageWith technology playing a supporting role, the process has become more efficient, but it is never left entirely to algorithms. “Technology helps us manage the process. Personal conversations help us understand people.”The rise of intentional matchmakingThe transformation of arranged marriages is unfolding alongside growing fatigue with casual dating. Platforms say users are increasingly rejecting endless swiping in favour of curated introductions.Anirban Banerjee, co-founder and CMO of Flutrr, says people have grown tired of treating dating as entertainment. Instead of browsing hundreds of profiles every day, users prefer a limited pool of matches that are actually compatible. “The platform is designed like a shortlist, not a marketplace.”Flashy profiles are no longer the focus; conversations around family, money, ambition, mental health and personal values are what seekers want. “Our job is to filter noise and surface people who make sense for your life, not tell you who to fall for.”The shift mirrors what many traditional matchmakers observe. Technology may have changed the medium, but the search has become more deliberate.According to Banerjee, intentional dating in 2026 reflects the realities of modern urban life. “You’re balancing work, family expectations, rent, maybe even thoughts of moving cities or buying a house. In that reality, dating has to feel clearer, or it just becomes one more drain.” Discussions go beyond favourite colours and hobbies; people now address marriage timelines, children, financial priorities, equality within relationships and lifestyle expectations far earlier than before.That behavioural shift is increasingly spilling into arranged marriages. Even when families introduce prospective matches, the final decision now depends on whether the individuals themselves feel emotionally and practically compatible.Women are changing the conversationPerhaps the biggest catalyst behind this transformation is women. Across multiple platforms, women are becoming more vocal about expectations, dealbreakers and boundaries before agreeing to meet someone. According to Flutrr’s internal surveys, women no longer hesitate to state, “This is what I’m looking for,” and just as clearly, “This is what I will not tolerate.”Women are asking about relationship intent, equality, family expectations, therapy, drinking habits, living arrangements and emotional maturity before investing time in a relationship. “When the responses feel evasive or inconsistent, most simply step back,” Banerjee says.He believes these changing expectations are influencing men as well. “Being respectful, clear and emotionally present is now seen as the bare minimum, not a bonus.”The trend is visible everywhere. According to Chandni Gaglani, executive vice president and head of Aisle, the company’s pan-India studies show that 54% of women prefer acts of service over grand romantic gestures, 53% are comfortable splitting the bill on the first date and half prefer meaningful conversations over flirting through emojis. The platform also found that one in three singles consider inconsistent behaviour the biggest relationship poison, while one in five walk away from emotionally unavailable partners.”Intentional dating today is about creating space for authentic conversations, mutual respect and relationships built on shared commitment rather than endless choice,” Gaglani says.Experience is replacing traditionMatchmaking usually conjures images of young bachelors, but the subject addresses a wider audience. The user-base of married individuals seeking a second chance — due to divorce, separation or other causes — has expanded.Ravi Mittal, founder and CEO of Rebounce, says second marriages are driven less by social expectations and more by lived experience. Users openly discuss parenting, relationships with former spouses, financial responsibilities and emotional expectations before deciding to move forward. “People are openly talking about how things ended in their last marriage, they are discussing parenting style, dynamics with the ex, and touching on more sensitive topics early on.”Matchmaking usually conjures images of young bachelors, but the subject addresses a wider audience. The user-base of married individuals seeking a second chance — due to divorce, separation or other causes — has expanded.According to Mittal, people entering second marriages already understand what matters in sustaining a relationship. “They know what really makes it sustainable, and no one would say caste or horoscope is the answer.”Similarly, Sybil Shidell of Gleeden says second marriages are increasingly shaped by emotional compatibility rather than external expectations. “A second marriage is often shaped less by external expectations and more by lived experience.” She says people increasingly prioritise communication, respect and shared goals over conventional filters.Why compatibility is also creating new pressuresThe trend toward matching wavelengths over social frameworks has a flip side. When people feel pressured to present themselves as the ideal partner, some resort to deception. Recent cases involving fabricated identities, forged qualifications, fake employment records and other fraud linked to relationships show the immense pressure individuals face.But that does not guarantee lifetime happiness.Sociological lens on pressure and deviant behaviourAccording to Dr Suyog G, assistant professor and area head of sociology at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Jain (Deemed-to-be University), emerging patterns around marriage-related pressures and deviant behaviour can be understood through a layered sociological lens.At the core is anomie, a condition in which traditional social norms weaken even as aspirations rise. “As people pursue socially desirable goals like marriage, some may begin looking for alternative, and at times criminal, means of achieving them,” he explains, situating individual actions within a broader breakdown of normative boundaries.This tension is compounded by relative deprivation, where comparisons with peers intensify feelings of inadequacy. In an increasingly visible and competitive social landscape, individuals measure their worth against others who appear more successful or desirable in the marriage market. When that perceived gap widens, the response is not always constructive.Social conformity — the desire to meet expectations set by family, relatives and the wider community — also shapes personal decisions. It can push individuals toward unethical choices if those are seen as necessary to secure approval or avoid rejection. These dynamics are especially pronounced in India, where marriage is rarely treated as a purely individual choice. “Marriage is a very emotional commitment. It is not just about the bride and groom. It is about two families,” he says, underscoring how alliances often extend beyond individuals to encompass social standing, cultural compatibility and family reputation.Despite rapid economic growth and technological advancement, the structure of the Indian marriage system remains relatively rigid in many communities. Factors such as caste, community alignment and family approval continue to play decisive roles, particularly in regions where endogamy remains the norm. “The fear of society often prevents young people from openly expressing their choice of partner before their families. Some begin looking for alternatives instead,” Dr Suyog says, linking structural rigidity to individual behaviour.At the same time, hyper-modernisation and westernisation act as key influences, driven largely by unprecedented access to information. Young Indians are exposed to diverse ideas about relationships, autonomy and personal freedom. Yet even as these new influences expand horizons, traditional ideals continue to hold significant cultural weight.The new arranged marriageIndia’s arranged marriage system is not disappearing. It is adapting.Parents continue introducing prospective matches. Communities continue influencing decisions. Horoscopes continue to matter in many households. But increasingly, those factors are parts of a broader conversation rather than determinants.The defining questions today are no longer limited to surname, caste or community. They are about emotional maturity, career ambitions, financial compatibility, family expectations, mental health, parenting, equality and shared life goals.The old arranged marriage model asked whether two families matched. The emerging model increasingly asks whether two people can build a life together first, and whether their families can grow into that partnership afterwards.That may be one of the most significant shifts India’s marriage market has witnessed in a generation.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMission Aagaman Explained: How Vikram-1 Could Make Indian Space History60-Year-Old Mumbai Man Dies After Falling Into Open Manhole, 4 BMC Officials SuspendedIndian Navy’s INS Trikand Thwarts Piracy Attempt On India-Bound Vessel In Gulf Of AdenWest Bengal Passes Tough Public Order Laws: What The Recovery And Preventive Detention Bills MeanJapan PM Takaichi In India: Top 10 Items On The Agenda As She Meets PM Modi54 Years of the Shimla Agreement: Why India Says Pakistan Violated the Spirit of the PactChina’s Proposed Bangladesh Corridor Could Open A New Strategic Route Into The Indian OceanBengaluru Daycare Abuse Case Explained: What The Viral Videos And Police Probe RevealNitish Kumar For Deputy PM? JD(U) And RJD Unite As Cabinet Expansion Buzz GrowsGovt Puts WhatsApp Username Feature On Hold Over Fraud, Impersonation Concerns: Reports123PhotostoriesJuly gardening guide: 7 flowers, fruits, and vegetables to plant in the UKAlia Bhatt redefines airport glam with heritage Gucci tote and classic Frankie Shop layering7 viral techniques people are using to keep mice away without poison”You are putting dead food into a living body”: Sadhguru on impact of eating old bread; 6 healthy desi breakfast alternativesLove quote of the day by Paulo Coelho: ‘Love isn’t just a feeling, it’s an art’Psychology says women who constantly say “Sorry” often have these 8 personality traitsPsychology says you don’t get what you want in life, but what you believe: Expert explainsFrom Oprah Winfrey to Kurt Russell: Celebrity couples who skipped marriage and stayed togetherFrom a walk-in closet to a massive living room, elegant décor and more: Shivangi Joshi’s luxurious houseFSSAI issues notices to 6 famous beverage brands for claiming ‘energy drink’ and misleading customers: 5 desi energy drinks that deserve a comeback in homes123Hot PicksTrump tariffsNHL TradeEPF Scheme 2026NFL TradeIncome Tax Return FilingMumbai rainNovak DjokovicMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingCapgemini Bengaluru DaycareDelhi Hit and RunBengaluru Triple MurderFIFA World Cup 2026EPF Scheme 2026US Iran warBy-election datesConnor McDavidManish TewariLando Norris Jul 02, 2026, 20:45 IST US adds just 57,000 jobs in June as hiring loses momentum despite easing unemployment CA Foundation Result 2026 on July 3: Here’s how to check your ICAI scorecard ‘Rains and you’: Vicky Kaushal shares a rare romantic PIC with Katrina Kaif, fans can’t keep calm Psychology says people who take short trips every few months are happier, less stressed and more resilient than those who wait for one big annual vacation | Svamitva Scheme: SVAMITVA property cards: How drone surveys are changing rural land ownership Meet Angela Nikolau and Ivan Kuznetsov, Russian couple arrested after climbing New York’s Empire State Building to propose Sonia Gandhi (File photo) NEW DELHI: The BJP on Thursday said senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s “silence” on the reported demolition of a gurdwara in Pakistan is in sharp contrast to her op-eds on Gaza, and accused her of displaying “double standards.”The attack came days after Sonia Gandhi, in an opinion piece in an English daily, accused the BJP-led central government of remaining silent on the “humanitarian crisis” in Gaza resulting from Israel’s war against Hamas.The Congress parliamentary party chairperson has repeatedly criticised the government over the Gaza issue.”Certain champions of human rights like Sonia Gandhi write op-eds on Gaza but remain silent on Sikhs being mistreated and persecuted in Pakistan, atrocities against Hindus in Pakistan and Bangladesh, or even Muslims in China’s Uyghur region and those killed in Pakistani bombing (in Afghanistan). This shows their double standards. They cry for Gaza but remain silent on our Sikh brothers in Pakistan,” BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said in a video statement.Pakistan, he asserted, has no “moral authority” to “lecture” India or the world on minority rights.”A 125-year-old important gurdwara has been targeted and demolished. This is not the first such incident. Several sites associated with Guru Nanak Dev have been targeted by Islamist mobs with impunity, and no action is taken against them,” he alleged.Poonawalla further claimed that the Sikh population in Pakistan had declined from around 20 lakh at the time of Partition in 1947 to a few thousand now, saying this reflected the “continued persecution” of the community in the neighbouring country.”It is a 99% decline. No wonder the government of India not only condemns such acts but also safeguards Hindus, Sikhs and other minority communities persecuted in Pakistan,” the BJP spokesperson added.His remarks came a day after India condemned the reported demolition of the historic Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Pakistan’s Punjab province, describing it as “highly deplorable” and calling on Islamabad to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.(With PTI inputs)Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMission Aagaman Explained: How Vikram-1 Could Make Indian Space History60-Year-Old Mumbai Man Dies After Falling Into Open Manhole, 4 BMC Officials SuspendedIndian Navy’s INS Trikand Thwarts Piracy Attempt On India-Bound Vessel In Gulf Of AdenWest Bengal Passes Tough Public Order Laws: What The Recovery And Preventive Detention Bills MeanJapan PM Takaichi In India: Top 10 Items On The Agenda As She Meets PM Modi54 Years of the Shimla Agreement: Why India Says Pakistan Violated the Spirit of the PactChina’s Proposed Bangladesh Corridor Could Open A New Strategic Route Into The Indian OceanBengaluru Daycare Abuse Case Explained: What The Viral Videos And Police Probe RevealNitish Kumar For Deputy PM? JD(U) And RJD Unite As Cabinet Expansion Buzz GrowsGovt Puts WhatsApp Username Feature On Hold Over Fraud, Impersonation Concerns: Reports123PhotostoriesJuly gardening guide: 7 flowers, fruits, and vegetables to plant in the UKAlia Bhatt redefines airport glam with heritage Gucci tote and classic Frankie Shop layering”You are putting dead food into a living body”: Sadhguru on impact of eating old bread; 6 healthy desi breakfast alternativesLove quote of the day by Paulo Coelho: ‘Love isn’t just a feeling, it’s an art’Psychology says women who constantly say “Sorry” often have these 8 personality traitsPsychology says you don’t get what you want in life, but what you believe: Expert explainsFrom Oprah Winfrey to Kurt Russell: Celebrity couples who skipped marriage and stayed togetherFrom a walk-in closet to a massive living room, elegant décor and more: Shivangi Joshi’s luxurious houseFSSAI issues notices to 6 famous beverage brands for claiming ‘energy drink’ and misleading customers: 5 desi energy drinks that deserve a comeback in homesICMR considers these 5 methods of cooking better and safer than frying; here’s what science says123Hot PicksTrump tariffsNHL TradeEPF Scheme 2026NFL TradeIncome Tax Return FilingMumbai rainNovak DjokovicMicrosoft layoffsIndia Japal TradeTop TrendingCapgemini Bengaluru DaycareDelhi Hit and RunBengaluru Triple MurderFIFA World Cup 2026EPF Scheme 2026US Iran warBy-election datesConnor McDavidManish TewariLando Norris