Friends, as 2025 is almost at an end now, so today I am recapping some of the POLITICAL EVENTS of 2025.
The top ten political events in India in 2025 were primarily marked by significant State elections, a cross-border military operation, major legislative changes, and institutional shifts. Here are the top political events:
1 Operation Sindoor and India-Pakistan Conflict– Following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April that killed 26 people, India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, a series of surgical strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir in May. This led to a four-day high-intensity military engagement before a ceasefire was reached.
2 Bihar Assembly Elections– The State assembly elections held in November saw the BJP led NDA front secure a decisive two-thirds majority, with Nitish Kumar taking office of Chief Minister for the record tenth time.
3 Delhi Assembly Elections– The BJP won a two-thirds majority in the Delhi elections in February, returning to power in the capital after 27 years, Rekha Gupta was appointed Chief Minister.
4 The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025– This highly contentious legislation aimed to reform the management of Waff properties by introducing measures like inclusion on non-Muslim members on Waqf Boards and applying legal time limits to disputes. The Act gathered significant debate and protests.
5 Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar’s Resignation– Citing health reasons, Jagdeep Dhankar resigned as Vice President in July, leading to early election in September where the NDA candidate CP Radhakrishnan was elected as his successor.
6 Prolonged Manipur Violence and President’s Rule– The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur worsened in early 2025, leading to Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s resignation in February. President’s rule was subsequently imposed on the State and a complete breakdown of law and order.
7 Announcement of Caste census– The Central government’s announcement in April that the next national census would include caste enumeration was a major policy change, expected to reshape welfare policies and future political landscapes, though it faced political opposition.
8 Ladakh Protests and Sonam Wangchuk’s Arrest– Ladakh witnessed intense protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule protections. The arrest of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act in September after months of peaceful demonstrations sparked national concern over dissent and federal relations.
9 Deepening Political Bitterness and Institutional Friction– The year was characterized by a sharp increase in political animosity between the ruling NDA and opposition INDI alliance bloc, with incidents like no-confidence motion against the Vice President and allegations of voter list fraud highlighting the institutional strain.
10 Intensified Crackdown on Nxalism– Security forces intensified operations against Left Wing Extremism, delivering major blows to Naxal groups across central India, including the naturalization of a key leader in May.
Some Other Major Events of 2025:
1 Implementation of New Criminal Laws– One of the most consequential developments was the full-scale roll out of Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) aand Bhariya Sakshya Adhiniyam, replacing the IPC, CrPC and Evidence Act.
2 Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Electoral Rolls– The Election Commission initiated a nation wide SIR, citing concerns over duplication, migration, and demographic shifts. Political impact of this was:
- Opposition parties alleged selective deletions and voter suppression.
- Became a flashpoint ahead of upcoming State Elections.
- Raised debates on electoral integrity versus disenfranchisement.
3 Digital Arrest and Cyber Policing Controversies– The concept of ‘digital arrest’, involving online detention notices and virtual compliance mechanisms, triggered national debate. The key concerns were:
- Potential violation of personal liberty.
- Absence of clear legal safeguards.
- Risk of misuse by enforcement agencies.
The Courts sought clearer guidelines, placing digital governance under scrutiny.
4 Air Pollution and Public Health Policies– Scientific reports linking air pollution to unborn babies and long-term health damage pushed environmental issues into political spotlight. Government response was:
- Expanded clean-air programs.
- Tighter industrial emission rules in NCR.
- Political friction between Centre and States over accountability.
In the end, Indian politics in 2025 was defined by transition and tension-between reform and resistance, digital governance and civil liberties, economic ambition and social protection. The year didn’t just shape policies; it reshaped the political narrative leading to next electoral cycle.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
30th December 2025