Raghu Rai, one of India’s most celebrated photographers whose work chronicled the country’s social, political and cultural journey, has died at the age of 83. He passed away at a private hospital in Delhi on Sunday, according to reports.

Rai was widely regarded as a pioneer of photojournalism in India, known for capturing powerful moments ranging from political events to everyday life. His images became a visual record of modern India, reflecting its diversity and complexity.

A career that defined Indian photojournalism

Born in 1942 in Jhang, then part of British India (now in Pakistan), Rai began his photography career in the 1960s. Over the decades, he worked with leading publications and documented key moments in India’s history.

His work included coverage of major events such as the Bhopal gas tragedy and the Bangladesh Liberation War, earning him widespread recognition. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1972 for his contribution to photography.

Rai also gained international acclaim, with his photographs appearing in global publications and exhibitions, cementing his status as one of the most influential visual storytellers from India.

Illness and passing

According to family accounts cited in reports, Rai had been battling cancer for the past two years. Though he underwent treatment, his condition worsened in recent months, along with age-related complications.

He is survived by his wife Gurmeet, son Nitin, and daughters Lagan, Avani and Purvai. His last rites were scheduled to be held at Lodhi Crematorium in Delhi.

Tributes and legacy

Tributes have poured in from across the country, with leaders and members of the photography community remembering him as a visionary who captured “the soul of India.”

His work, spanning over five decades, continues to serve as a powerful archive of India’s evolution, making him one of the most respected figures in global photojournalism.

A fresh political confrontation has erupted between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Aam Aadmi Party over allegations surrounding a newly allotted residence to Arvind Kejriwal, with the BJP dubbing it “Sheesh Mahal 2”.

The controversy began after Parvesh Verma released images and a layout of the bungalow, claiming that high-end amenities in the property were funded using “private money”. The BJP alleged that the residence reflects an extravagant lifestyle, reviving earlier accusations linked to the “Sheesh Mahal” controversy.

The remarks came soon after Kejriwal moved into the government-allotted accommodation in Delhi’s Lodhi Estate, adding political heat to an already tense atmosphere.

In response, AAP leaders rejected the allegations outright, asserting that the images circulated by BJP leaders were not authentic. Party representatives claimed the visuals were sourced from online platforms and do not represent the actual residence.

The party also accused the BJP of spreading misinformation to target Kejriwal politically and damage his public image.

Political tensions rise amid recent defections

The row comes at a time when tensions between the two parties are already high following recent political developments, including the exit of senior leaders from AAP.

Raghav Chadha, who recently shifted political alignment, also weighed in on the issue, adding another dimension to the ongoing confrontation. His remarks are seen as part of a broader political attack on AAP amid internal challenges and shifting loyalties.

The developments have intensified the war of words between the BJP and AAP, with both sides trading allegations over governance, transparency, and political intent.

Ongoing battle of narratives

While the BJP continues to question the nature of the residence and its alleged expenses, AAP has maintained that the claims are baseless and politically motivated.

With both parties standing firm on their positions, the “Sheesh Mahal 2” issue is likely to remain a key flashpoint in Delhi’s political landscape in the coming days.

The Karnataka cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has approved an internal reservation framework for Scheduled Castes (SCs) within the existing 15% quota, a move expected to address long-standing demands and restart stalled government recruitment.

The decision was taken during a special cabinet meeting and introduces a revised formula to distribute the quota among different SC sub-groups.

How the quota will be divided

Under the new structure, the 15% reservation for Scheduled Castes will be split into three categories:

• 5.25% for “left-hand” SC communities
• 5.25% for “right-hand” SC communities
• 4.5% for other SC groups, including nomadic communities

The formula is based on proportional representation and aims to ensure equitable distribution of benefits among various sub-castes.

Recruitment to resume after long delay

The cabinet’s approval is expected to immediately unlock recruitment for thousands of government positions that had been on hold due to the reservation issue.

Officials indicated that recruitment notifications will now be issued, potentially opening up more than 50,000 vacancies across departments.

Long-pending demand addressed

The move comes after decades of demands from different SC communities seeking internal classification within the quota system. The government described the decision as a step toward social justice and balanced representation.

The issue had remained unresolved for years due to legal and administrative complexities, including concerns over exceeding the Supreme Court-mandated 50% reservation cap.

Political and social significance

The decision carries both administrative and political importance, as it addresses a sensitive issue affecting multiple communities within the Scheduled Castes. It also comes at a time when reservation policies continue to be a major subject of debate across states.

While the government has presented the move as a corrective step, it is likely to trigger reactions from various stakeholders, including opposition parties and community groups.