The accusation was swiftly countered by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and a fact-check by the Press Information Bureau (PIB).

Pralhad Joshi, a loyal RSS and BJP member, is a five-term MP from Dharwad, Karnataka. Close to PM Modi and Amit Shah, he has held key portfolios, including Coal, Mines, and Parliamentary Affairs, and played a significant role in BJP's legislative successes.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi expressed concern over a report titled 'Share of religious minorities: A cross-country analysis,' describing it as "scary" and emphasizing the need for society and governments to take it seriously.

Several prominent figures, including Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, Bhagwanth Khuba, and Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge, kick-started the voting process by casting their votes early in Karnataka. The state is witnessing the second phase of Lok Sabha elections across 14 segments today.

The Delhi Police has petitioned the court for an extension to conclude its investigation into the Parliament security breach case, citing pending reports and the voluminous nature of digital data involved. They have sought an additional three months for the investigation process.