India Reviews GST Powers, Ram Mandir Probe
The government is considering changes to GST arrest powers, while an expanded SIT will investigate the Ram Mandir donation case as India concludes its Asian Games campaign.
Several major developments featured in India's news on October 4, 2026, including a proposed review of arrest powers under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime, an expanded investigation into the Ram Mandir donation case and India's fourth-place finish at the 2026 Asian Games.
The central government is considering removing arrest powers under the GST regime as part of efforts to address concerns over compliance and alleged overreach by tax authorities. The GST Council is expected to discuss the proposal at its October 7 meeting. Any changes would require the necessary legislative amendments, which the government may introduce during Parliament's Winter Session.
In Uttar Pradesh, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Ram Mandir donation case is being expanded following suggestions from the Supreme Court. According to The Indian Express, the team will include a forensic accounting expert, an auditor and additional senior police officers. Vishwa Hindu Parishad president Alok Kumar said the issue should not be politicised and emphasised accountability in the investigation into alleged cash theft from temple offerings.
India concluded its 2026 Asian Games campaign in fourth place with 85 medals, comprising 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze medals. Strong performances in archery, golf, cricket, wrestling and hockey during the final days helped India consolidate its position in the medal standings.
In a separate security development, an Indian Navy sailor was arrested in Coimbatore on October 3 for allegedly transmitting classified maritime information to a Pakistani intelligence operative. Officials said the investigation began after suspicious digital activity was detected. The allegations remain subject to investigation.
India and Pakistan also summoned each other's senior diplomatic representatives following a security confrontation in the Ferozepur sector along the Punjab border. New Delhi rejected Pakistan's allegations and called on Islamabad to prevent unauthorised cross-border infiltration.
The day's developments also included the death of veteran filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao at the age of 94. Celebrated for his work across South Indian languages and Hindi cinema, Rao received tributes from political leaders and members of the film industry.