The Congress slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday for praising the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in his Independence Day address. Describing the move as "very worrisome," Congress claimed that it violates India's constitutional and secular values.

The clash between the Tamil Nadu government and Governor RN Ravi has intensified with Chief Minister MK Stalin and the DMK allies deciding to boycott the conventional Independence Day reception at the Governor’s resident on Friday evening in protest against the ‘anti-Tamil Nadu acts’ of the Governor.

The 79th Independence Day was celebrated at the Mahatma Gandhi Stadium in Ajjarakadu on Friday, with District In-charge Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar hoisting the national flag and receiving the guard of honour.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has launched a sharp attack on the United States, accusing it of promoting terrorism and dictatorship, in a marked departure from the admiration some Hindutva groups once expressed for US president Donald Trump, including public prayers in his favour.

A 10-year-old boy died in a suspected cylinder blast here on Friday, police said. At least and nine persons were injured in the incident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the government has undertaken tax reforms to make life easier for citizens, and improved capabilities has aided in raising the tax-free income limit of an individual to Rs 12 lakh per annum.

The body of a man was found in the tunnel of Kolkata Metro's Blue Line in the early hours of Friday, officials said.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday said Karnataka is already India's IT capital, and it is now stepping forward to become the world's 'Capital of Innovation'.