Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde refuted speculations of a rift in the Mahayuti alliance, confirming the BJP-led coalition with Shiv Sena and NCP remains intact. Shinde joked, dismissing reports and opposition claims of a cold war with CM Fadnavis. Shinde assured unity ahead of the upcoming budget session and emphasized ongoing development projects.

The outlawed Kurdish militant group PKK declared a ceasefire with Turkey on March 1, following a call from jailed leader Abdullah Ocalan to disband. The group pledged to lay down arms unless attacked. The ceasefire follows an olive branch extended by MHP leader Bahceli in October. President Erdogan welcomed the move but warned Turkey would resume military operations if the PKK did not follow through. The ceasefire could impact regional stability and Erdogan’s political standing ahead of future elections. n18oc_crux

Rwanda-backed rebels said they captured fighters from a group that took part in the 1994 genocide. 

​Rwanda-backed rebels said they captured fighters from a group that took part in the 1994 genocide.