DailyWorld News - The First International Newspaper From India https://dailyworld.in/ Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:41:44 +0530 en https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-attacks-colonial-mindset-of-past-govts-at-jain-museum-inauguration-in-gujarat-667346.html Gandhinagar March 31 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said earlier governments had neglected Indias manuscript heritage due to a colonial mindset as he inaugurated the Samrat Samprati Museum at Koba Tirth in Gandhinagar on the occasion of Mahavir JayantinbspAddressing the gathering PM Modi said it should have been the nations responsibility after Independence to identify and preserve ancient manuscripts but this had not been doneDue to a colonial mindset no attention was paid in this direction The mistake of neglecting manuscripts by earlier governments is now being corrected he saidHe said the Centre had launched the Gyan Bharatam Mission to conserve manuscripts through digitisation chemical treatment and scientific research adding that people were also contributing by uploading manuscripts as part of a national survey effortThe Prime Minister said the museum located within the Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra campus would serve as a centre for Jain worship as well as cultural and heritage preservationHe said artefacts of the Jain community some dating back around 1000 years had been preserved for future generationsKoba Tirth is a place of peace and the penance of saints For a long time traditions of dedication study spiritual practice and discipline have continued here he said describing the site as a confluence of Indian civilisation through the preservation of values nurturing of cultural ethos and promotion of knowledgeReferring to history PM Modi said that while many civilisations had produced thinkers and ideals several rulers abandoned those values when faced with powerSome rulers adopted violence as a tool whereas Samrat Samprati promoted nonviolence while in power he said adding that such history had been preserved in the museumHe said the museums design reflects Indias diversity and unity with traditions such as the Vedas Puranas and Ayurveda represented and added that its message was relevant in a volatile global environmentThe Prime Minister credited Jain saints including Acharya Padmasagarsurishwarji for dedicating their lives to collecting manuscripts from across the countryAccording to officials the museum showcases the historical cultural and spiritual legacy of Jainism and enables visitors to understand its evolution chronologicallyThe museum features seven galleries displaying rare artefacts including stone and metal idols Tirth Patta Yantra Patta miniature paintings silver chariots coins and ancient manuscripts integrated with digital and audiovisual installations for visitors and researchersHousing more than 2000 artefacts and over 300000 manuscripts the museum has been developed as a major repository of Indias cultural heritagePM Modi also referred to other projects including a maritime museum at Lothal and a museum at Vadnagar and said such initiatives were now being undertaken beyond political narratives and votebank considerationsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-attacks-colonial-mindset-of-past-govts-at-jain-museum-inauguration-in-gujarat-667346.html Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/lop-rahul-gandhi-criticises-uttarakhand-law-and-order-over-retired-brigadiers-killing-in-dehradun-667349.html New Delhi March 31 IANS Leader of the Opposition LoP in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday reacted strongly to the killing of retired Brigadier VK Joshi in Dehradun terming the incident a reflection of a complete breakdown of law and order in UttarakhandnbspIn a post on X LoP Gandhi described the daylight killing of the retired Army officer who was out on a morning walk as brutal and deeply alarming He said the incident clearly shows that the security situation in the state has deteriorated significantlyRahul Gandhi asserted that individuals who dedicated their lives to safeguarding the nation at the borders are no longer safe in their own cities He added that ordinary citizens and several communities are now living under constant fear due to rising incidents of violenceTargeting the BJP LoP Gandhi alleged that under the current government criminals feel more secure than lawabiding citizens He further said that Uttarakhand once known for its peaceful environment and safety has now been pushed into a situation where violence and insecurity appear to be increasing due to what he described as ineffective and irresponsible leadershipThe comments come in the backdrop of the incident in which Brigadier VK Joshi was reportedly caught in a crossfire during a firing episode that began after a dispute between occupants of two vehicles in the Rajpur area on Monday morningAccording to police the altercation escalated into gunfire Joshi who was on a morning walk at the time was caught in the crossfire and suffered critical injuries He later succumbed to them while undergoing treatmentPolice officials have launched an investigation into the matter cordoned off the area and initiated efforts to trace those involved Multiple teams have been deployed and checkpoints have been set up across different jurisdictions to apprehend the accused Authorities said further details would emerge as the probe progressesThe incident has sparked concern among residents and drawn political reactions with calls for stricter measures to ensure public safety and prevent such occurrences in the futureIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/lop-rahul-gandhi-criticises-uttarakhand-law-and-order-over-retired-brigadiers-killing-in-dehradun-667349.html Tue, 31 Mar 2026 13:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/census-commissioner-to-hold-key-press-conference-today-667171.html New Delhi March 30 Registrar General and Census Commissioner Mritunjay Kumar Narayan will address a press conference on Monday at noon to outline the roadmap for the countrys upcoming census exercise During the briefing at the National Media Centre in New Delhi the Commissioner is expected to present a comprehensive blueprint detailing how the census process will be conducted across IndiaAhead of the exercise the Registrar General of India has issued a strong warning to officials involved in the census regarding misconduct during the process Acts such as negligence or misuse of data obstruction of census operations and deliberately asking offensive or inappropriate questions to citizens have been categorised as offencesOfficials have been cautioned that such violations are punishable under the Census Act 1948 with penalties including fines and imprisonment of up to three yearsIn a communication dated March 17 addressed to all states Narayan outlined the punitive provisions under Section 11 of the Census Act These penalties range from a fine of Rs 1000 to imprisonment for up to three years or both depending on the severity of the offenceA significant feature of the upcoming census is the complete digitisation of the process For the first time the entire exercise will be conducted online allowing citizens to submit their details through a selfenumeration system within a specified timeframeIn a notable development the 2027 census will recognise livein couples residing together in the same household as married provided they consider their relationship to be a stable unionAddressing a frequently asked question on the census selfenumeration portal regarding whether livein couples would be treated as married sSources indicated that if they the couple consider their relationship to be a stable one they should indeed be treated as a married coupleThis clarification marks the first time such a position has been formally articulated in the context of Indias census operationsThe adoption of an online system will enable individuals to selfenumerate by directly filling in their census details reducing reliance on enumerators and streamlining the data collection processThe census questionnaire will include 33 questions in the houselisting phase one of which pertains to the number of married couples residing within a household This phase aims to create a comprehensive database of households nationwide and is expected to last 45 daysThe houselisting phase is scheduled to be conducted between April 1 and September 30 with specific timelines for each state and Union Territory to be notified separately by the authorities IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/census-commissioner-to-hold-key-press-conference-today-667171.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/nitin-nabin-resigns-from-post-of-mla-his-resignation-will-be-submitted-by-sanjay-saraogi-667199.html Patna March 30 In a significant political development in Bihar BJP National President Nitin Nabin has resigned from his post as an MLA stepping down from the Bankipur Assembly constituency According to Sanjay Saraogi the BJP Bihar President âResignation letter has already been handed over by him and will be formally submitted to the Speaker of the Legislative Assemblyâ He clarified that the process was delayed due to Sunday but the resignation will be officially presented today being the first day of the working weekFollowing his resignation Nitin Nabin shared an emotional message on social media platform X reflecting on his twodecadelong political journeyHe recalled that his political career began in 2006 after the demise of his father late Nabin Kishore Prasad Sinha when the party gave him the opportunity to contest the byeelection from Patna WestExpressing gratitude he noted that the people of his constituency elected him as their representative for five consecutive terms which he described as a blessing and a responsibilityHe emphasised that throughout his tenure he worked tirelessly for the development of his constituency and Bihar raising public issues both inside and outside the AssemblyNitin Nabin also acknowledged the guidance of senior leaders across party lines and credited party workers and the public for shaping his political journeyReflecting on his tenure as a minister in the Bihar government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to implement key policies and schemesAnnouncing his resignation he stated that he is stepping down as the elected representative of Bankipur but will continue to serve the people in his new role within the partyHe assured that his bond with the people of Bihar and party workers will remain unbreakableReaffirming his commitment Nitin Nabin said he will continue to work dedicatedly toward the vision of a Developed India and a Developed Bihar by 2047 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/nitin-nabin-resigns-from-post-of-mla-his-resignation-will-be-submitted-by-sanjay-saraogi-667199.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chhattisgarh-cm-inaugurates-ambikapur-new-delhi-flight-kolkata-service-from-april-2-667206.html Raipur March 30 Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday virtually inaugurated direct flight services from Maa Mahamaya Airport in Ambikapur to New Delhi and Kolkata The inauguration was conducted from Raipur while local MP Chintamani flagged off the flight from Maa Mahamaya Airport Darima Airport Darima Airport originally built in 1950 was upgraded in 2021 to handle 72seater aircraft Under the new schedule flights will operate twice a week to Delhi and twice a week to Kolkata with both services making a stop at BilaspurThe AmbikapurDelhi service will be operated on a 72seater ATR aircraft with a fare of Rs 6500 The AmbikapurKolkata service starting April 2 will run on Thursdays and Saturdays at a fare of Rs 6000The launch of these flights has brought immense joy to residents of Ambikapur and the surrounding Surguja division a tribaldominated region in northern Chhattisgarh Locals believe the new air services will save travel time reduce fatigue and boost business tourism and connectivityOn Mondays the DelhiAmbikapur flight will depart Delhi at 750 am reach Bilaspur at 1025 am and arrive in Ambikapur at 1140 am It will then depart Ambikapur at 1205 pm and return to Delhi by 235 pm On Wednesdays the flight will leave Delhi at 750 am reach Ambikapur at 1025 am depart at 1050 am for Bilaspur and finally return to Delhi at 250 pmSpeaking on the occasion Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the AmbikapurKolkata flight will soon start and the government also has plans to start flights to Ayodhya and Varanasi âWe will soon launch flight services as work is going on Jagdalpur Ambikapur Raigarh and other airports will be extended and developed further â he saidLocal MP boarded the plane to inaugurate the service The Raipur airport he said will soon have a cargo airport A memorandum of understanding has been signed in this regardMaa Mahamaya Airport located at Darima near Ambikapur was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 20 2024 Spread over 365 acres and developed at a cost of around Rs 80 crore the airport is expected to accelerate development in Surguja by providing modern air connectivitySurguja MP Chintamani described the launch as a âhistoric momentâ for the region Former Deputy Chief Minister TS Singh Deo also welcomed the development saying work was now moving in the right directionOn Sunday CM Sai inaugurated night flight operations at Bilasa Devi Kevat Airport in Bilaspur He personally travelled on the inaugural night flight from Bilaspur to Raipur accompanied by MLA Dharamjit SinghFollowing the airportâs upgrade the Directorate General of Civil Aviation DGCA granted permission for night operations under the 3C IFR category on February 6With this facility scheduled commercial flights as well as emergency and medical services can now operate during nighttime hoursChief Minister Sai said the launch of night flights would significantly enhance lifesaving medical services and boost trade tourism and investment in the region He urged citizens to make full use of the new facility and extended best wishes for safe and pleasant journeysThis development marks a major boost to regional aviation infrastructure in Chhattisgarh particularly in smaller cities and tribal areas IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chhattisgarh-cm-inaugurates-ambikapur-new-delhi-flight-kolkata-service-from-april-2-667206.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/people-have-decided-to-throw-her-out-nda-leaders-target-mamata-banerjee-amid-victim-card-row-667208.html New Delhi March 30 IANS The NDA leaders on Monday launched a pointed criticism of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee saying that her party was experiencing a decline in public support and hence was resorting to political manoeuvres like playing the victim card ahead of the upcoming electionsnbspSpeaking to IANS BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal said We all know how Mamata Banerjee has governed West Bengal over the past five years and today as her hold over West Bengal is slipping the people there have decided Mamata Banerjees government is being thrown out and that this is nothing more than a political stuntJDU spokesperson Neeraj Kumar also questioned the Chief Ministers stance drawing a comparison with past leadership He said Mamata Banerjee is the Chief Minister If even she becomes fearful then what will happen to the common people Some politicians say Our lives are in danger But in this country the tradition has been different Indira Gandhi when she was Prime Minister publicly acknowledged that her life could be at risk yet she did not worry She fought against terrorism and the entire nation stood with herBJP MP Damodar Agarwal accused Banerjee of using emotional narratives saying You can understand when a person acts this way when their governance formula fails and the public stands against them they resort to emotional issues The public has already decided to replace her Thats why she is making such emotional statements trying to gain sympathy and play the victim cardEchoing similar sentiments BJP MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat said This is not happening for the first time Whenever Mamata Banerjee contests elections she always faces some kind of problem I dont think her efforts this time will be successfulUttar Pradesh Minister Anil Rajbhar also criticised the West Bengal Chief Minister stating She is creating trouble without any reason People who have insulted the public there for such a long time are now talking about their honourEarlier Chief Minister Banerjee slammed Union Home Minister Amit Shah over his victim card remarks about the leg injury she suffered during campaigning for the 2021 Assembly elections and suggested that there might be a conspiracy against her lifeAddressing a Trinamool Congress TMC rally in Manbazar in Purulia the CM criticised HM Shah over the charge sheet he released against her government on Saturday saying Who are you to file a charge sheet You should be charge sheetedOn Saturday HM Shah said that CM Banerjee played the politics of the victim card Sometimes she breaks her leg sometimes she ties a bandage on her head sometimes she falls ill and sometimes she abuses the Election Commission EC But the people of Bengal have understood her victim card politics he saidThe exchange of sharp remarks underscores the intensifying political battle in West Bengal with parties escalating their attacks as the state heads toward crucial electionsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/people-have-decided-to-throw-her-out-nda-leaders-target-mamata-banerjee-amid-victim-card-row-667208.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/young-legislators-from-mp-rajasthan-chhattisgarh-gather-in-bhopal-for-parliamentary-training-667218.html Bhopal March 30 Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav encouraged young legislators to study deeply maintain discipline and work with a positive approach for the development of their constituencies He was addressing a training programme for young legislators that began on Monday at the Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha AssemblyThe twoday Youth Legislators Conference has brought together MLAs aged 45 years and below from Madhya Pradesh Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh The Chief Minister highlighted the rich democratic traditions of India and called upon young legislators to play an active role in building a developed India by 2047Assembly Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar appealed to young MLAs to maintain dignity in the House study diligently and contribute meaningfully to legislative proceedingsHe welcomed the participants and said the conference is not just a formal event but a serious effort to shape the future of Indian democracyAddressing the gathering senior legislator minister for urban development Kailash Vijayvargiya shared valuable insights from his four decades of parliamentary experience He pointed out that you cannot address all the problems of everyone He stressed the importance of maintaining a responsive and professional office using modern technology showing humility and balancing party loyalty with public serviceHe advised young MLAs to focus on longterm imagebuilding rather than shortterm publicity and urged them to remain positive on social mediaLeader of Opposition Umang Singhar stressed the need for student electionsThe programme organised under the aegis of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association India Region Zone6 aims to strengthen parliamentary traditions enhance legislative skills and prepare young lawmakers for the challenges of nationbuildingThe inaugural session witnessed the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani and senior officials from all three statesThe programme started with the national song âVande Mataramâ The conference will discuss two major themes the role of young legislators in strengthening democracy and preparations for a developed India by 2047Around 45 young MLAs from the three states are participating in the programme This initiative is being seen as a significant step towards capacitybuilding of the next generation of lawmakers and promoting healthy parliamentary practices in Indian democracy IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/young-legislators-from-mp-rajasthan-chhattisgarh-gather-in-bhopal-for-parliamentary-training-667218.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/stalin-files-nomination-from-kolathur-exudes-confidence-of-dmk-led-alliances-victory--667222.html Chennai March 30 IANS With the nomination process for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections formally underway Chief Minister M K Stalin on Monday filed his nomination from the Kolathur constituency where he is seeking a fourth consecutive termnbspThe Election Commission has initiated the filing of nominations across all 234 constituencies in the state marking a crucial phase in the runup to the singlephase polling scheduled for April 23nbspReturning officers offices have been set up in every constituency accompanied by tight security arrangements to ensure a smooth and orderly processnbspAgainst this backdrop Stalin arrived at the designated election office located at Paper Mills Road under the Kolathur Assembly segment and submitted his nomination papers to Returning Officer S Shanthi in the presence of senior leaders including Minister Sekhar BabunbspnbspThe filing of the nomination by the Chief Minister drew significant attention with party cadres and supporters gathering in large numbersnbspSpeaking to the media after filing his papers Stalin expressed strong confidence in the prospects of the DMKled alliance He asserted that regardless of the intensity of the contest the outcome would decisively favour the alliancenbspThe people of Tamil Nadu will once again place their trust in our governance he said projecting optimism about a sweeping victorynbspFollowing the formalities the Chief Minister embarked on a roadshow in an open jeep traversing key stretches of the constituency The event turned into a show of strength for the DMK with enthusiastic supporters lining both sides of the roads waving party flags and greeting him with cheersnbspIn a symbolic move highlighting his governments development agenda Stalin also released a booklet detailing the achievements and welfare initiatives implemented in the Kolathur constituency during the DMKs tenure The publication underscores the partys efforts to consolidate its voter base by showcasing tangible development outcomesnbspReiterating his confidence Stalin stated that the DMK alliance is poised to secure over 200 seats in the upcoming elections His remarks signal the partys aggressive push to retain power and expand its mandate in the state As the election process gathers momentum all eyes are now on the evolving campaign dynamics in Tamil Nadu with major political players intensifying their efforts to win over votersnbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/stalin-files-nomination-from-kolathur-exudes-confidence-of-dmk-led-alliances-victory--667222.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahul-gandhi-begins-kerala-campaign-alleges-ldfbjp-hidden-pact-667223.html Adoor March 30 IANS Launching his Assembly election campaign in Kerala Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday struck an aggressive note alleging a hidden understanding between the ruling Left and the BJP even as he rolled out a series of welfare promises for voters ahead of the April 9 pollsnbspAddressing a large gathering in Adoor in the sweltering heat Rahul Gandhi thanked supporters for turning up in big numbers and framed the electoral battle as a direct contest between the UDF and a tacit LeftBJP combineOn one side is the UDF and on the other is a combination of the Left and the BJP he said invoking the idea of a hidden hand to argue that the BJP does not see the Left as a real challenger at the national levelHe claimed that leaders who genuinely oppose the BJP face pressure and investigation citing cases against himself while alleging that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Left leadership do not face similar intensity of scrutinyLeader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi further accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of maintaining silence on contentious issues in Kerala including Sabarimala to avoid politically damaging the CPIMIn a scathing attack the Congress MP alleged that the Left government in Kerala no longer reflected true Left ideology and had instead adopted corporatefriendly policies similar to the BJPHe pointed to the plight of rubber farmers claiming the sector had been neglected and criticised both the Centre and the State for failing to protect workers and small producersPositioning the UDF as a propeople alternative Rahul Gandhi unveiled a set of key guaranteesThese include free travel for women in staterun buses a monthly allowance of Rs 1000 for collegegoing girls and an increase in welfare pensions to Rs 3000He also promised a Rs 25 lakh health insurance cover for every family Rs 5 lakh loans to promote smallscale entrepreneurship and the creation of a dedicated ministry for senior citizensEmphasising employment and manufacturing Gandhi said Kerala must strengthen MSMEs and agriculture instead of relying on importsThis microphone I speak into is Made in China it should be made in Kerala he remarkedKerala will go to the polls on April 9 to elect 140 legislators Gandhi is scheduled to address more meetings in Kottayam on MondayIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rahul-gandhi-begins-kerala-campaign-alleges-ldfbjp-hidden-pact-667223.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hazaribagh-erupts-over-brutal-rape-murder-of-minor-bjp-bandh-hits-normal-life-667229.html Hazaribagh March 30 The brutal rape and murder of a minor girl in Kusumbha village under the Vishnugarh police station area of Jharkhandâs Hazaribagh has sparked massive public outrage in the district The BJP along with local residents called for a âHazaribagh Bandhâ on Monday in protest against the incident which witnessed a widespread impact across the districtProtesters took to the streets in several areas including Hazaribagh city and the Vishnugarh block headquarters demanding the immediate arrest of the accused and strict actionHundreds of people including Hazaribagh MP Manish Jaiswal Barhi MLA Manoj Kumar Yadav and district BJP President Vivekananda Singh marched through the streets raising slogans and forcing the closure of marketsShops remained spontaneously closed in several localities including the Vishnugarh police station area Jhumra Market and Saat MileCommercial establishments in Jhumra Market and adjoining suburbs also remained completely shut disrupting normal public lifeProtesters alleged that the police have failed to arrest the main accused even six days after the crime This they said reflects the deteriorating lawandorder situation in the stateThey described the incident as bearing chilling similarities to the Delhi âNirbhayaâ caseHazaribagh MP Jaiswal said the state governmentâs silence over such a heinous crime in Vishnugarh was baffling He alleged that the government had failed to even express basic sympathy towards the victim and her familyAccording to police the minor girl had gone out on Tuesday evening to watch the Ram Navami procession but failed to return home A search was launched later that night Her mutilated body was recovered from bushes near the village on Wednesday triggering shock and anger across the regionDirector General of Police Tadasha Mishra constituted an SIT to probe the case but so far no arrests have been madeEarlier in the day the Jharkhand High Court took suo motu cognisance of the matter and issued notices to the State Home Secretary and the Director General of Police DGP seeking their responsesThe court sought details of the investigation from the Hazaribagh SP who appeared virtually in the proceedings The SP assured the court that the accused would be identified and would be arrested soonHowever the court observed that the failure to arrest the culprits even six days after the incident was a matter of serious concernMeanwhile heavy police deployment has been made across the Hazaribagh district and the administration is keeping a close watch on the situation IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hazaribagh-erupts-over-brutal-rape-murder-of-minor-bjp-bandh-hits-normal-life-667229.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/lok-sabha-discusses-left-wing-extremism-bjp-sees-end-near-congress-alleges-credit-grab-667232.html New Delhi March 30 IANS The Lok Sabha on Monday witnessed a sharp exchange of views as members debated the governments efforts to eradicate LeftWing ExtremismnbspShiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde lauded Maharashtras initiatives particularly in Gadchiroli a district long troubled by Maoist activity He said the state government has been making fruitful efforts to wipe out Maoism He said that when Eknath Shinde was Guardian Minister of Gadchiroli he personally visited the district and celebrated Diwali with the people symbolising solidarity and confidence in the administrations outreachShinde further asserted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah the complete abolition of Maoism was now possiblenbspCongress MP Saptagiri Sankar however mounted a sharp rebuttal He questioned whether the ruling party was ignoring the sacrifices made by earlier governments and the police forces who bore the brunt of Maoist violencenbspFrom the claims of the ruling MPs one will think that Home Minister Amit Shah himself killed the Maoists with a gun and no one else has a role in it he remarked accusing the government of monopolising creditSankar who hails from a region where LeftWing Extremism remains entrenched reminded the House that Congress leaders in Chhattisgarh were targeted and killed in Maoist attacks between 2006 and 2009nbspHe asked pointedly whether anyone from the BJP had lost their lives either during the freedom struggle or in Maoist violence suggesting that the sacrifices of Congress workers and leaders were being overlookedThe debate highlighted the political fault lines over how credit is apportioned in the fight against extremismnbspWhile the ruling side emphasised current leadership and statelevel initiatives the opposition sought recognition of past sacrifices and questioned the narrative of exclusivitynbspThe discussion underscored both the progress made in reducing Maoist influence in districts like Gadchiroli and the continuing challenges in regions where extremism remains activenbspIt also reflected the broader contest between ruling and opposition parties over historical legacy political ownership and the framing of national security achievementsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/lok-sabha-discusses-left-wing-extremism-bjp-sees-end-near-congress-alleges-credit-grab-667232.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 16:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/nadda-slams-india-bloc-in-rajya-sabha-accuses-it-of-appeasement-politics-undermining-democracy-667233.html New Delhi March 30 Union Minister JP Nadda on Monday launched a scathing attack on the Congressled INDIA Bloc in the Rajya Sabha accusing it of having no commitment to democratic principles parliamentary decorum or meaningful debate Speaking during proceedings in the Upper House Nadda said it was âwith great sadnessâ that he had to point out that the Opposition bloc has âno interest in democracy nor in upholding parliamentary decorum nor in speaking or engaging in debates on any issue and nor in following the ConstitutionâThe senior BJP leader alleged that the INDIA Bloc has been driven solely by appeasement politics aimed at consolidating the Muslim vote bank He claimed that such an approach has led to attempts to divide society for political gainsâThey have indulged only in appeasement politics to secure the Muslim vote bank The entire Opposition is engaged in dividing society and vitiating the atmosphere for its political gainsâ Nadda claimed drawing strong objections from Opposition BenchesCondemning what he termed as appeasement politics Nadda asserted that such practices weaken democratic institutions and disrupt healthy parliamentary functioning His remarks triggered protests and interruptions in the House with several Opposition members rising to counter the allegationsIn a pointed remark directed at the Congress the Union Minister claimed I condemn this appeasement politics of the Opposition I hope that the Congress does not remain held hostage to the actions of an immature childThe development highlight the continuing friction between the BJPled government and the INDIA Bloc with both sides intensifying their political attacks ahead of upcoming electoral battlesResponding to the allegations Congress leaders hit back at the government accusing it of diverting attention from pressing national concerns and avoiding meaningful debate in Parliament The party maintained that it remains committed to constitutional values and inclusive governance and alleged that the BJP has been using such attacks to polarise voters ahead of elections IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/nadda-slams-india-bloc-in-rajya-sabha-accuses-it-of-appeasement-politics-undermining-democracy-667233.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 16:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/oli-arrest-row-puts-new-nepal-govts-justice-claims-under-scrutiny-667236.html New Delhi March 30 IANS Since the arrest of former Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and his then colleague exHome Minister Ramesh Lekhak for their reported role in the September 2025 firing that left many dead in Kathmandu mixed reactions have been coming from the Himalayan nation over administrative exercise and intentnbspPressure had been building ever since a probe agency submitted its findings and recommendations to the interim government on March 8 There were growing calls to make the report public However the then administration is understood to have deferred the decision preferring that the incoming Prime Minister and cabinet take a call on the matterEven so excerpts from the nearly 1000page report began appearing in sections of Nepals media prompting the interim government to consider releasing it just days before the new government was sworn inHowever according to a report in The Kathmandu Post on Sunday The Gen Z uprising probe report on which these arrests were based has yet to be made public The arrests also appeared selective with other top security officials named in the report sparedThe report further said The proper way would have been to first make the report public after which the police could have taken the case against the two politicians to court Instead the hasty arrests have fuelled suspicions that the new government could use its supermajority to target its opponentsIncidentally both Nepal and Bangladesh saw new democratically elected governments emerge after youthled protests over alleged misrule though the course of events differed in the two countries both neighbours of IndiaIn Nepal a new government took office after youthled protests over alleged misgovernance KP Sharma Oli though ousted participated in the electoral process but lost to incumbent Balendra Shah In contrast in Bangladesh former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country amid unrest and a court later awarded her the death sentence over alleged atrocities Her party the Awami League has since been barred from political activityWithout drawing direct parallels the article urged caution on the part of Nepals new leadershipWe hope that the new government on which people have pinned such high hopes acts with more caution in the future including the cases of Oli and Lekhak This is vital to delivering justice to the families of those who were killed during the Gen Z uprising which is one of the governments justifications for the arrests All those who were involved in the brutal suppression of peaceful protests on September 8 last year must be brought to book it saidYet if the government is seen to be selectively targeting a few people while sparing others implicated in suppressing the uprising the legitimacy of the whole process of prosecution and justicedelivery to victim families starting with the formation of the Gauri Bahadur Karkiled commission last year will come into question it stressedWhile a similar crackdown by law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh had led to the deaths of several protesters followed by mob violence and attacks on Awami League members and minority Hindus no comparable incidents of retaliatory violence have been reported in Nepal under the interim governmentThe article also noted the reform promises of Nepals new administration highlighting a 100point reform agenda that ranges from boosting the flagging economy to reducing politicisation of universities and bureaucracyIt observed If even half the pledges are implemented Nepal will be a much better place to live and work in Moreover the new Shah government seems intent on making a strong start so that people can immediately feel the changeWith its mandate the government has a chance to work wonders for the country It should not let that mandate go to waste by getting embroiled in such distractions that could easily have been avoided the piece opinedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/oli-arrest-row-puts-new-nepal-govts-justice-claims-under-scrutiny-667236.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rs-200cr-turnover-evasion-racket-in-hospitality-sector-exposed-punjab-minister-667270.html Chandigarh March 30 IANS Punjab Excise and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Monday said a massive Rs 200 crore turnover evasion racket in the hospitality sector has been exposednbspWith 882 establishments already under the scanner and Rs 202 crore recovered so far Cheema said the investigation is rapidly expanding and the total evasion could surge to nearly Rs 500 crore as more data is analysednbspFlagging how major urban centres like Mohali Jalandhar and Ludhiana have emerged as key hubs of suppression he underscored that sectors driven by high cash and hybrid payments are at the centre of the fraudnbspCheema told them media here that through a comprehensive statewide datadriven enforcement exercise covering hotels dhabas eateries bakeries sweet shops restaurants catering services and similar establishments we have identified a total of 882 establishments pertaining to 202526nbspnbspWith further analysis and the inclusion of data pertaining to the financial years 202324 and 202425 the total magnitude of evasion is likely to reach approximately Rs 500 crore he saidnbspDetailing findings of the ongoing verification Cheema said In the preliminary inquiry conducted till date 239 cases have been examined resulting in the detection of turnover suppression of approximately Rs 50 crorenbspThis evasion involves a tax of Rs 254 crore at a five per cent rate and our department has so far ensured the recovery of Rs 202 crore with further recovery proceedings still ongoing he saidnbspUnderlining the scale of discrepancies across taxpayers Cheema said We discovered turnover suppression above Rs 2 crore in three taxpayers above Rs 1 crore in six taxpayers above Rs 50 lakh in 18 taxpayers above Rs 25 lakh in 26 taxpayers and above Rs 5 lakh in 91 taxpayersnbspnbspHighlighting sectorspecific trends he said further analysis indicateed systemic patterns of underreporting in highcash and hybridpayment segments He said dhabas account for approximately Rs 10 crore of the suppression followed by small eateries coffee and chai bars at around Rs 8 crore and pizza and fastfood outlets exceeding Rs 6 crorenbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/rs-200cr-turnover-evasion-racket-in-hospitality-sector-exposed-punjab-minister-667270.html Mon, 30 Mar 2026 20:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/nda-will-form-govt-in-tn-after-2026-polls-ttv-dhinakaran-666969.html Chennai March 29 AMMK General Secretary T T V Dhinakaran has asserted that the National Democratic Alliance NDA is poised to form the next government in Tamil Nadu following the Assembly elections scheduled for April 23 Addressing the media on Saturday Dhinakaran said there is strong antiincumbency sentiment against the ruling DMK government and claimed that the political climate is turning increasingly favourable for the NDA across the stateâThe people of Tamil Nadu are looking for change The prevailing conditions clearly indicate that the NDA will come to powerâ he said expressing confidence in the allianceâs electoral prospectsDhinakaran also welcomed the seatsharing arrangement within the NDA stating that the AMMK had been allotted all 11 constituencies it had sought He described the allocation as satisfactory and said it reflects a spirit of cooperation among alliance partnersThe AMMK leader released the partyâs 32page election manifesto outlining a wide range of welfare and governance measures Among its key demands the party has urged the Centre to confer the Bharat Ratna posthumously on Forward Bloc leader U Muthuramalinga Thevar and former Chief Minister J JayalalithaaIt has also called for naming the Madurai International Airport after Thevar The manifesto places significant emphasis on agrarian relief including a waiver of crop loans taken by farmers from cooperative and nationalised banks and the expansion of the protected agricultural zoneIt also proposes a law to guarantee timebound delivery of public services On social justice the party has backed a castebased survey while assuring that the existing 69 per cent reservation policy would remain unaffectedAMMK has also pledged to restore benefits for denotified communities and increase reservation for Muslims in education and employment to 5 per cent In the education and infrastructure sectors AMMK has advocated bringing education back to the State List and expanding institutions such as Kendriya Vidyalayas and PM Shri schoolsIt has also proposed establishing an AIIMS in northern Tamil Nadu and an IIT in the southern regionThe manifesto further promises the revival of the Legislative Council restoration of the Old Pension Scheme free electricity up to 100 units per month and reopening of Amma Unavagams in every panchayat unionWith these proposals Dhinakaran said the AMMK aims to present a âpeoplecentric alternativeâ as part of the NDAâs broader vision for Tamil Nadu IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/nda-will-form-govt-in-tn-after-2026-polls-ttv-dhinakaran-666969.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 08:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mood-of-keralam-is-in-favour-of-nda-says-pm-modi-667020.html Coimbatore March 29 Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to campaign in pollbound Kerala on Sunday where he will address a rally and take part in a roadshow âLooking forward to being among the people of Keralam later today Will address a rally in Palakkad and later will take part in a roadshow in Thrissur The mood of Keralam is in favour of the NDA The people have had enough of the poor governance of LDF and UDFâ PM Modi said in a post on social media ahead of his visitAs he has a brief transit through Tamil Nadus Coimbatore ahead of his Kerala tour elaborate security arrangements have been put in placeReflecting heightened political activity in the region authorities have rolled out a massive security operation to ensure the Prime Ministerâs safe passage Senior police officials confirmed that multiple zones across Coimbatore and its outskirts have been placed under highsecurity classification with strict restrictions on both aerial and groundlevel movement Drone operations have been completely banned in sensitive areas under the Coimbatore Rural Police limits including Neelambur Chinthamanipudur Chettipalayam Madhukarai Ettimadai and WalayarThe restrictions in force until Sunday evening are part of a broader strategy to secure the airspace during the VVIP movement Within city limits key arterial stretches such as Avinashi Road Peelamedu Kalapatti and Singanallur have been declared âRed ZonesâMovement in these areas is being closely monitored with checkpoints and surveillance systems operating round the clock Around 5000 security personnel from multiple agencies have been deployed supported by a threelayered security grid at Coimbatore Airport and adjoining locationsAdvanced surveillance systems and coordinated control rooms have been activated to oversee the operation in real timePM Modi is likely to arrive in Coimbatore by air before proceeding to Kerala via helicopter His visit comes as campaigning gathers pace ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections scheduled for April 9In Kerala the Prime Minister will address a public rally in Palakkad and later take part in a roadshow in Thrissur campaigning for National Democratic Alliance candidates including Padmaja Venugopal in what is seen as a key outreach effort IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mood-of-keralam-is-in-favour-of-nda-says-pm-modi-667020.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 15:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/across-states-leaders-tune-in-to-pm-modis-132nd-mann-ki-baat-667028.html New Delhi March 29 Several senior leaders across India tuned in to the 132nd episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat on Sunday In Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Ministers Brajesh Pathak and Keshav Prasad Maurya listened to the programme from their official residencesIn Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel tuned in to the programmeBJP National President Nitin Nabin joined party workers in Dibrugarh Assam to listen to the broadcastBJP s Lok Sabha member Praveen Khandelwal highlighted the Prime Ministerâs focus on vital issues saying âThe Prime Minister today discussed three to four important fundamental issues with the citizens of the country through the âMann Ki Baatâ programme Among these in particular fisheries water conservation and solar energy are very importantâDuring the broadcast PM Modi addressed both global and domestic concernsReflecting on international developments he said âThis month of March has been extremely eventful on a global level We all remember that in the past the entire world faced numerous problems for a long time due to Covid We all expected that after emerging from the Corona crisis the world would move forward on the path of progress with a fresh start But in different parts of the world conditions of war and conflict continued to emergeâHe also spoke about the ongoing gas crisis linked to conflicts in West Asia noting that India is âresolutely facingâ the challenges due to its capable foreign policy The Prime Minister urged citizens not to politicise the gas crisis and to rely only on verified government informationPrime Minister Modi further emphasised the participatory nature of his radio programme stating âFor Mann Ki Baat I receive numerous messages from different parts of the country every month These messages show how eagerly people in remote areas listen to this program When I read your suggestions I feel that this is not just a programme it has become a shared conversation for all of us Your thoughts and experiences inspire us to continuously improve itâThroughout the broadcast the Prime Minister also encouraged awareness about domestic issues such as fisheries water conservation and solar energy urging citizens to actively contribute to national initiativesThe episode reinforced Mann Ki Baatâs role as a platform connecting policymakers with the public allowing leaders and citizens alike to engage with pressing concerns while highlighting local participation in national development goals IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/across-states-leaders-tune-in-to-pm-modis-132nd-mann-ki-baat-667028.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/brs-demands-dismissal-of-telangana-minister-over-alleged-corruption-illegal-mining-667031.html Hyderabad March 29 Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS on Sunday demanded the immediate dismissal of Telangana Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy over allegations of corruption and illegal mining BRS MLAs staged a protest at Gun Park near the Assembly building and later raised the issue in the House demanding an inquiry into illegal mining either by the House Committee or by a sitting judge of the High CourtBRS Deputy Leader in Assembly T Harish Rao and party working president KT Rama Rao along with other MLAs stages protest at Gun Park Carrying placards they demanded that the House Committee probe the allegations against Raghava Construction a company linked to the revenue ministerBRS MLAs also wrote a letter to Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy seeking a probe by the House Committee or a sitting judgeTalking to media persons Rama Rao warned that if the government fails to act the party will approach the Governor with a formal complaint and if necessary take the issue directly to the people on a large scaleKTR levelled serious allegations against the minister stating that the government has been shaken following the revelations made by Harish RaoHe said that Harish Rao had exposed with documentary evidence sourced from the government itself a major scam involving a senior minister ranked No2 in the state government The company linked to the ministerâs family was found to have violated rules and engaged in illegal mining activitiesKTR questioned why the government has taken strict legal action against other companies involved in illegal mining but failed to act against Raghava Constructions He raised doubts whether the inaction is due to the companyâs connection to the minister or due to the Chief Ministerâs own involvementHe pointed out that after the exposure by Harish Rao the Chief Minister admitted that irregularities had indeed taken place However instead of taking responsibility he attempted to counterattack by claiming that the government itself had revealed the issue KTR criticised the Chief Ministerâs claim that the company belonged to âdistant relativesâ of Minister Ponguleti calling it absurdKTR stated that the ministerâs wife son and brother are directly linked to the company and that the minister himself served as its chairman between 2020 and 2022 He accused the Chief Minister of making contradictory and misleading statements reflecting a lack of credibilityHe further alleged that the Chief Ministerâs strong defence of Raghava Constructions indicates his own involvement in the matter He cited the allocation of contracts under the Kodangal Lift Irrigation Project to the same company and raised concerns over largescale land irregularities in the state involving the Chief Minister and his associatesKTR criticised the government for failing to deliver any meaningful work for the people over the past two and a half years instead focusing on cases commissions and vendetta politicsQuestioning the governmentâs inaction he asked why no action has been taken against the ministerâs family company despite clear evidence He pointed out that under the law a second notice in such cases can lead to imprisonment of up to one year yet the government continues to protect the accusedHe also criticised the Mining Minister for downplaying the issue as a mere Rs 4 lakh matter stating that officials had detected violations worth Rs 32 lakh in a single day during inspections He said this clearly indicates a much larger scam involving public resources over a prolonged periodKTR alleged that another company Bhagyalakshmi Mining in Kokapet is linked to a close relative of the Chief Minister He questioned the discrepancy in mining revenues stating that while the government claims increased revenue only about Rs 900 crore is being realised instead of the expected Rs 17001800 crore raising serious concerns about diversion of fundsThe BRS demanded the constitution of a House Committee to investigate the roles of the minister the Chief Minister and others involved He recalled that in the past similar allegations such as the Obulapuram mining case were probed through a House Committee ensuring transparency IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/brs-demands-dismissal-of-telangana-minister-over-alleged-corruption-illegal-mining-667031.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-polls-dmk-rift-deepens-after-sitting-mla-sr-raja-dropped-from-partys-list-667033.html Chennai March 29 The DMK is facing a wave of internal unrest in the Tambaram Assembly constituency after its decision to deny renomination to sitting MLA SR Raja triggered sharp protests from party cadres exposing fault lines within the local unit ahead of the elections The party has instead nominated Dr Krithika Devi a relatively new entrant in electoral politics as its candidate for Tambaram The move has come as a surprise to many within the party particularly supporters of Raja who had expected continuity given his longstanding presence and electoral track record in the constituencyDiscontent has been steadily building among grassroots workers who view the leadershipâs decision as a sudden and unexplained shiftMany party functionaries argue that replacing an experienced leader at this stage could disrupt established organisational networks and affect campaign momentumTensions spilled onto the streets late Saturday night when hundreds of Rajaâs supporters gathered in Irumbuliyur and marched to the residence of senior DMK leader and Treasurer TR Baalu staging a noisy demonstration that continued for hoursThe protesters raised slogans demanding the replacement of Dr Krithika Devi arguing that the new candidate is unfamiliar with the constituencyâShe does not know the ground reality the number of wards or even the ward secretaries How can she contestâ questioned the agitated supportersThey urged the party leadership to reconsider and renominate SR Raja with some even pleading âWe fall at your feet please give the opportunity to SR Raja againâThe situation intensified when SR Raja himself arrived at TR Baaluâs residence for a direct negotiation holding a closeddoor meeting with the senior leaderFollowing the meeting TR Baalu addressed the protesters stating âI have known Raja since his childhood I did try on his behalf However the party president MK Stalin has made a decision and there will be valid reasons for it There is a possibility that Raja will be given another responsibilityâEven after the leadershipâs intervention dissatisfaction continues to simmer among Rajaâs supporters with sporadic protests still being reported from parts of the constituencyThe episode has added a layer of uncertainty to the DMKâs campaign in Tambaram at a crucial junctureWith the Assembly elections approaching the unfolding situation is being closely watched as prolonged dissent within the ranks could pose a challenge for the partyâs prospects in what has been considered a key constituency IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-polls-dmk-rift-deepens-after-sitting-mla-sr-raja-dropped-from-partys-list-667033.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-revanth-reddy-questions-centre-over-failure-to-act-against-kcr-in-kaleshwaram-case-667037.html Hyderabad March 29 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Sunday asked the Centre why it failed to act against former CM K Chandrasekhar Rao and exIrrigation Minister T Harish Rao despite the state government entrusting the CBI with the investigation into alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram project Speaking in the State Legislative Assembly he suggested that the BJP leaders from the state raise the issue with the CentreHe remarked that running away from the House after making suggestions has become the habit of BRS legislatorsThe Chief Minister was reacting to a suggestion by BJP member Venkataramana Reddy supporting the demand of Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS for a House Committee to probe the allegations of corruption and illegal mining against Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas ReddyAmid the BRS demand for a House Committee probe a BJP member suggested that the Congress government agree to the demand to ensure the smooth functioning of the HouseResponding to this Chief Minister Revanth Reddy recalled the allegations of BJP leaders that Kaleshwaram had become an ATM for KCRIt was not just us even the countrys Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister stated that KCRs family was involved in looting the money in the Kaleshwaram project Union Minister Kishan Reddy had asserted that if the Kaleshwaram case is handed over to the CBI KCR and Harish Rao would be put behind bars within 48 hours Trusting their words we indeed handed over the Kaleshwaram case to the CBIâ he saidThe Chief Minister said even after many months the Centre has failed to take action against KCR and Harish RaoAlleging that the BJP is handinglove with the BRS Revanth Reddy claimed that the two parties shared votes and seats during the Parliamentary elections âIt would be more appropriate for BJP leaders to offer suggestions after ensuring that KCR and Harish are sent to jail in the Kaleshwaram caseâ he saidThe Chief Minister alleged that Harish Raos younger brother Mahesh Rao intimidated the owners of private industries in Balanagar Mahabubnagar district and transferred hundreds of acres of land into his name using the Dharani portalâIf Mr Harish Rao agrees we are prepared to constitute a House Committee to investigate this matter If KTR and Venkataramana Reddy truly believe that Harish Rao is an honest man then they should agree to the formation of a House Committee he saidThe ruling party members raised strong objections to BRS stalling the proceedings over the demand for a House Committee to probe into allegations of illegal mining They said the government has already proved its sincerity by ordering the CB CID inquiry into the illegal mining since 2014Minister for Legislative Affairs D Sridhar Babu said there was no need for a House Committee after the government itself came forward to order a probe by CB CID IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-revanth-reddy-questions-centre-over-failure-to-act-against-kcr-in-kaleshwaram-case-667037.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/55-lakh-lpg-refills-delivered-supply-normal-govt-667043.html New Delhi March 29 IANS The supply of domestic LPG cylinders is normal in the country with more than 55 lakh refills delivered on Saturday while another 64000 free trade 5 kg cylinders have also been sold and no dryouts have been reported at LPG distributorships the Ministry of Petroleum said on SundaynbspOnline LPG cylinder bookings have increased to 94 per cent on an industry basis and to prevent diversion at the distributor level Delivery Authentication Code DAC based deliveries have been increased from 53 per cent in February to 84 per cent the statement saidAll refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories in place The country is also maintaining sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel Domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption All petrol pumps are operating normally across the countryThe government has requested consumers to make LPG bookings online and avoid visiting LPG distributorships Citizens are also requested to use alternative fuels like PNG and inductionelectric cooktops All citizens are also requested to make necessary efforts to conserve energy in their daily usageIn view of the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz proactive measures are being undertaken to maintain the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG across the countryThere were certain rumours which led to panic buying at some retail outlets in a few states resulting in unusually high sales and heavy crowding However it is informed that there are adequate stocks of petrol and diesel available at all petrol pumps in the country The Government has reiterated its advice to the public not to believe rumoursRaids continue to be carried out in many of the states and UTs to check hoarding and black marketing of LPG About 2900 raids have been conducted and about 1000 cylinders have been seized on SaturdayOfficials of public sector oil marketing companies have conducted surprise inspections at more than 1200 RO and LPG distributorships on Saturday across the country to ensure smooth supplies and to check any hoarding or black marketing The oil companies have issued about 480 show cause notices to LPG distributorships till dateIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/55-lakh-lpg-refills-delivered-supply-normal-govt-667043.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 18:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/peace-prosperity-enabling-conditions-made-jk-a-world-class-destination-l-g-sinha-667045.html Jammu March 29 IANS Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor LG Manoj Sinha said on Sunday that peace prosperity and enabling conditions have made the Union Territory a destination for world class eventsnbspLG Sinha said that the Jammu Marathon symbolises the profound transformation which Jammu and Kashmir has embraced since 2019Peace prosperity and enabling conditions have made the Union Territory a destination for worldclass events Its dream realised at last as after seven decades Jammu and Kashmir claims its rightful place on the global stage he addednbspHe was speaking at the felicitation ceremony of Jammu Marathon at the Maulana Azad Stadium in JammuThe firstever International Half Marathon in Jammu organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department featuring 21 km 10 km and 5 km race categories witnessed the participation of more than 3000 runners from across the country and abroadnbspTerming the Jammu Marathon as a historic milestone the LG said that Jammu has firmly established itself on the global running mapHe added that the success of the mega event promises a surge in tourism to the enchanting city of Jammu benefiting trade and businesses and heralding an era of comprehensive developmentnbspI see the marathon as the one event where runners dont worry about trophies rankings or medals They just think about the next step And thats the biggest lesson from a marathon Jammu and Kashmir itself embodies this principle Since 2019 we have advanced one step at a time crafting a new identity for this Union TerritorynbspWe have transformed it into a hub of peace and prosperity now capable of hosting international marathons cricket tournaments and even international events LG Sinha saidHe recalled that when the Union government first conceived the Kashmir Marathon in December 2023 meeting the goal wasnt just to organise a race but it envisioned a new Jammu and Kashmir announcing its arrival on the global sporting stagenbspUnder the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji Jammu and Kashmir is now showcasing its boundless tourism potential on the world map the LG addednbspHe said that longawaited dreams and aspirations are becoming a realityThrough Jammu Marathon the participants have not only discovered new experiences within themselves but also witnessed the profound changes sweeping Jammu and Kashmir he addednbspHe said that furled by the citizens unyielding resolve Jammu and Kashmir is setting new benchmarks in developmentnbspThe renewed resolve taking root in our sporting arena I am especially delighted that in pursuit of Fit India we are also igniting a new sporting revolution in Jammu and Kashmir LG Sinha addedSatish Sharma Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Youth Services and Sports Atal Dulloo Chief Secretary Ashish Chandra Verma Additional Chief Secretary of Tourism Department Ramesh Kumar Divisional Commissioner Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti IGP Jammu and senior officials of civil and police administration were presentnbspFilm actors Milind Soman and Gul Panag prominent citizens sportspersons and youth in large number also attended the felicitation ceremonyIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/peace-prosperity-enabling-conditions-made-jk-a-world-class-destination-l-g-sinha-667045.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 18:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/abdominal-fat-bigger-risk-than-overall-obesity-in-india-dr-jitendra-singh-667057.html New Delhi March 29 IANS Abdominal or central obesity poses a greater health risk than overall obesity especially in the Indian context where even leanlooking individuals may carry harmful visceral fat Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said on SundaynbspSpeaking at the release of a cardiology textbook titled Advances in Obesity and Lipid Management in CVD the minister highlighted that fat accumulation around the abdomen can significantly increase the risk of serious health conditions even among those who do not appear overweightCentral obesity is an independent risk factor and can lead to a wide range of metabolic disorders including diabetes hypertension cardiovascular diseases fatty liver and lipid imbalances he explainednbspThe problem is particularly relevant for Indians due to a distinct body type where fat tends to accumulate around the abdomen despite a relatively lean appearance he notedDr Singh said that while overall obesity levels are rising among both men and women abdominal obesity remains disproportionately high and is a key driver of cardiometabolic risknbspHe stressed the need for early detection and targeted interventions to address this hidden health threatnbspReferring to changing lifestyles he pointed out that poor dietary habits reduced physical activity and imbalance in daily routines are contributing to a rise in metabolic disorders including type2 diabetes and early heartrelated complications among younger peopleThe minister also cautioned against extreme or unscientific fitness practices noting that excessive physical exertion without proper preparation or rest can also harm healthnbspHe underlined the importance of balanced living adequate sleep and scientifically guided preventive carenbspThe book edited by noted cardiologist HK Chopra brings together contributions from over 300 experts from India and abroadIt focuses on advanced approaches to managing obesity and lipid disorders including new therapies and the use of digital tools and artificial intelligence in healthcarenbspDr Singh said the publication is timely as India faces a growing burden of obesity and related diseasesnbspHe also referred to calls by Narendra Modi for greater public awareness and healthier lifestyle choices including reducing unhealthy food consumptionIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/abdominal-fat-bigger-risk-than-overall-obesity-in-india-dr-jitendra-singh-667057.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 18:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/24-brs-mlas-suspended-from-telangana-assembly-for-two-days-667065.html Hyderabad March 29 Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS MLAs were suspended from the Telangana Assembly for two days for stalling the proceedings of the House Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar announced the suspension of 24 BRS members present in the House after a resolution moved by Legislative Affairs Minister D Sridhar Babu was adopted by a voice voteThe legislators of the main opposition party have been disrupting proceedings over their demand for the House Committee to probe the allegations of corruption and illegal mining against Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas ReddyAs soon as the House met for the day the BRS members raised the issue and demanded that a House Committee be constituted They sought to move an adjournment motion but the Speaker disallowed the sameThe BRS members trooped into the well of the House and raised slogans disrupting the proceedingsThe government rejected the demand for a House Committee The members of the ruling Congress party argued that since the government has already ordered a CB CID inquiry into the alleged illegal mining in the state happening since 2014 there was no need for a House CommitteeThe issue triggered an exchange of heated words between BRS and Congress members Certain remarks made by BRS MLA Kaushik Reddy about Kadiyam Srihari evoked strong protest from the treasury benches Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and ministers accused the BRS of stalling proceedings of the House The Chief Minister called for suspending the BRS members He also alleged that BRS was insisting on the House Committee as it wants to blackmail the minister through a couple of members on the panelThe Chief Minister asked BRS members to produce whatever evidence they have before the CB CIDAs the repeated appeals by the Speaker to the BRS members to cooperate in the smooth functioning of the House yielded no response the legislative affairs minister moved the resolution of their suspension from the House for two daysBRS deputy leader in Assembly T Harish Rao party working president KT Rama Rao former Ministers T Srinivas Yadav Jagdish Reddy and Gangula Kamalakar were among the BRS MLAs suspended from the HouseThe BRS MLAs later staged a protest in the Assembly premises and accused the government of stifling the voice of the oppositionThe Budget session of the Assembly is scheduled to conclude on March 31 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/24-brs-mlas-suspended-from-telangana-assembly-for-two-days-667065.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/two-odisha-achievers-find-mention-in-pm-modis-mann-ki-baat-cm-majhi-expresses-gratitude-667069.html Bhubaneswar March 29 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded the achievements of two persons from Odisha during his 132nd Episode of the weekly âMann Ki Baatâ programme In his address PM Modi commended the spirit of Sujata Bhuyan a housewife from Sambalpur district whose perseverance enabled her to establish herself as a successful entrepreneur in fish farming The Prime Minister noted that Bhuyan who wanted to do something new and further help her family ventured into fish farming in the Hirakud reservoir a few years agoâThe early days were not easy for her Numerous challenges such as weather changes arranging food for the fish and balancing household responsibilities were there but her spirit remained unwavering Within just two or three years she transformed her endeavour into a thriving business Today her success has become a new ray of hope for the women of the communityâ added PM ModiExpressing his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for highlighting Bhuyanâs successful endeavour Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi described it as a matter of great pride for the people of Odisha CM Majhi stated that Sujata Bhuyan has achieved remarkable success by undertaking fish farming through cage culture in the Hirakud Reservoir by effectively utilising the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana PMMSYThe Chief Minister noted that with an annual production of around 25 to 30 metric tonnes of fish and an income of Rs 8 to Rs 10 lakh she has become an inspiration for othersâSujataâs inspiring journey from being a housewife to becoming a selfreliant entrepreneur will certainly motivate other women in the state to become selfdependent I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to her for her continuous efforts and successâ said CM MajhiDuring his weekly address on Sunday the Prime Minister also mentioned Om Prakash Rath a youth from Kendrapara district of Odisha for his essay on advancing womenled developmentRecently nearly 12 lakh youth from across the country participated in the âMy Bharat Budget Questâ competition organised by My Bharat aiming to connect young people with the budget process and policymakingAfter the quiz approximately 160000 participants were selected for the essay competition Rath who participated in the competition also submitted his essay on womenled development The Prime Minister noted that Rathâs views and ideas expressed in his essay on advancing womenled development greatly impressed himâThe appreciation of Om Prakash Rathâs essay reflects the intellectual capability of the youth of our state I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to him for his achievementâ said CM Majhi IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/two-odisha-achievers-find-mention-in-pm-modis-mann-ki-baat-cm-majhi-expresses-gratitude-667069.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/fairpoint-no-lockdowns-no-rationing-india-stays-steady-amid-world-energy-crisis-667070.html New Delhi March 29 How does it feel to sit steady while everything around you seems to be on fire It is an unsettling image but it aptly captures Indias position in todays world At a time when much of the globe is grappling with the cascading effects of a conflicttriggered energy crisis India appears relatively stable The ongoing tensions involving the US Israel and Iran have sent shockwaves through global energy markets Countries across continents are scrambling to respond to sudden shortages and rising prices of oil and gas a situation few would have imagined before February 28 happenedThe Gulf region long considered the epicentre of global energy supply is itself under strain As disruptions ripple outward governments worldwide are being forced into emergency measuresAnd in the middle of this turbulence India finds itself in a comparatively comfortable position For a country of 140 crore people the availability of petrol diesel and piped natural gas PNG remains largely stable There are concerns around LPG in some pockets but much of it appears driven by panic buying and hoarding rather than any systemic shortageThe situation gives a sense of pride and places India high up During the Covid19 pandemic when many powerful nations turned inward shutting borders and guarding resources India stepped up both domestically and globally Through the Vaccine Maitri initiative it extended support to nearly 100 countries reinforcing its role as a dependable partner in times of crisisTodays situation though different in nature once again highlights contrasts across countries Several governments have had to take harsh measures that directly affect daily life Pakistan has sharply increased fuel prices introduced workfromhome measures and shut educational institutions Sri Lanka has cut down public lighting reduced airconditioning use in state offices and adopted a fourday workfromhome model Bangladesh has enforced fuel rationing and closed universities Vietnam has also moved to remote working The Philippines has declared a national energy emergencyEven developed economies are not immune Australia is witnessing fuel shortages with hundreds of service stations running dry exacerbated by panic buying Price increases and demand spikes are becoming common across marketsAgainst this backdrop Indias position stands out There has been no hike in petrol diesel or gas prices so far Supplies remain available and the government has maintained that the country has adequate reserves reportedly enough for over two months along with measures to boost domestic production and encourage alternatives such as PNGFor ordinary Indians this translates into a degree of normalcy that is increasingly rare elsewhere Vehicles continue to run fuel is accessible and daily life remains largely unaffected In contrast even in the US rising fuel prices have pushed up the overall cost of living contributing to inflationary pressuresAmid this the political discourse at home has been far from measured Criticism is an essential part of democracy but there is a thin line between questioning the government and fuelling unnecessary anxietyWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee raised concerns about a possible lockdown a day ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis scheduled virtual meeting with the chief ministers to discuss the fuel situation amid the ongoing West Asia conflict on March 27 Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi warned of compromised energy security attributing it to foreign policy failures Akhilesh Yadav spoke of widespread LPG shortagesThese are serious claims but they sit uneasily with the ground reality When the crisis itself is global and largely beyond the control of any single government the focus perhaps should be on constructive suggestions rather than amplifying fearsThe political heat may continue to rise but on the ground the picture remains steady Roads are busy fuel stations are functioning pipelines are supplying gas and households are managing their needsIndia has not stopped The country is witnessing hectic political activity revolving around Assembly elections in four states and one union territory and the inauguration of premier development projects such as the Noida International Airport the enthralling IPL tournament has also begun international halfmarathons are also being held in some states and Dhurandhar continues to make a dream runFor once in a world under strain India stands on relatively steady ground The road ahead may not be without challenges if the Gulf conflict escalates but this is hardly the time to panic A measured response and some trust in the governments handling will serve better than alarmismDeepika Bhan can be contacted at deepikabiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/fairpoint-no-lockdowns-no-rationing-india-stays-steady-amid-world-energy-crisis-667070.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-faults-govts-foreign-policy-for-pakistan-us-bonhomie-667073.html New Delhi March 29 The Congress on Sunday faulted the governmentâs foreign policy for onceisolated Pakistan acquiring new acceptance and respect from US President Donald Trump amid the West Asia conflict âIt is a country that was dealt with very strictly by Presidents Clinton Bush Obama and Biden Now after having been isolated following its terror offensive in Mumbai in Nov 2008 Pakistan has acquired a new acceptanceâ said former Union Minister Jairam RameshClaiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not been able to gain any diplomatic leverage with the US Ramesh said âThat Pakistan has become in the words of the learned Dr S Jaishankar a âdalalâ is a reflection of the colossal failure of the Modi Govtâs foreign policy diplomatic engagement and narrative management following Indiaâs striking military success in Operation SindoorâThe Congress MP General Secretary in charge of party communications said âUndoubtedly President Trump Mr Modiâs âgood friendâ has contributed heavily to Pakistanâs current respectabilityâThis is not the first time that the Congress has criticised PM Modi and the government amid recent developments in West Asia and their impact on IndiaThe BJP has been constantly refuting the allegations levelled by the Congress and other Opposition partiesRecently BJP leader and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said âPrime Minister Modi is playing his role in his own way upholding the selfrespect of his country however the Congress is continuously attempting to mislead the nationHe also extended support to the External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankars statement regarding the reported central role played by Pakistan in mediating between the US and IranThe Chief Minister said The Congress leaders are saying that had we spoken to this person or that person things would have turned out differently India is playing its role on its own terms I appreciate EAM S Jaishankar for calling Pakistan a dalalDuring an allparty meeting held on March 25 EAM Jaishankar reportedly said that India cannot be a broker Dalal nation IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-faults-govts-foreign-policy-for-pakistan-us-bonhomie-667073.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/maneka-gandhi-meets-telangana-cm-discusses-street-dog-management-667076.html Hyderabad March 29 Former Union minister and animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi along with her team called on Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy here on Sunday and discussed the issues related to the welfare of street dogs and cows According to the Chief Ministerâs Office officials briefed BJP leader Maneka Gandhi on the measures being implemented for street dog management and cow protection within the limits of the states municipalitiesOfficials presented details regarding the sterilisation of street dogs within municipal limits through a PowerPoint presentationThe Chief Minister stated that the government has already formulated plans for cow protection across the stateThe Chief Minister explained that the foundation stone has already been laid for the construction of a Goshala cow shelter at NK Palli situated on a spacious site and equipped with stateoftheart facilitiesThe Chief Minister further informed that plans have been finalised for the construction of Goshalas in various regions of the state particularly in the vicinity of templesAccording to the CMO Maneka Gandhi expressed her satisfaction with the governments initiatives regarding animal welfare She commended the state governments effortsMinister for industries and information technology Sridhar Babu Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation GHMC Commissioner R V Karnan Cyberabad Municipal Corporation Commissioner Gummalla Srijana Malkajgiri Municipal Corporation Commissioner Vinay Krishna Reddy and senior officials were present at the meetingManeka Gandhi who is the chief patron of Greater Hyderabad Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals GHSPCA on Saturday launched a new GHSPCA animal ambulance and commenced a donation schemeThe BJP leader inspected the ongoing construction works of the multispeciality animal hospital and shelter at Begum BazaarSpeaking on the occasion she said the longpending construction works would be completed soon She expressed optimism about the hospitalâs future She noted that after 27yearlong wait the facility is nearing completion IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/maneka-gandhi-meets-telangana-cm-discusses-street-dog-management-667076.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/peace-prosperity-amp-enabling-conditions-made-jampk-world-class-destination-l-g-sinha-667080.html Jammu March 29 Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor LG Manoj Sinha said on Sunday that peace prosperity and enabling conditions have made the Union Territory a destination for world class events LG Sinha said that the Jammu Marathon symbolises the profound transformation which Jammu and Kashmir has embraced since 2019Peace prosperity and enabling conditions have made the Union Territory a destination for worldclass events Its dream realised at last as after seven decades Jammu and Kashmir claims its rightful place on the global stage he addedHe was speaking at the felicitation ceremony of Jammu Marathon at the Maulana Azad Stadium in JammuThe firstever International Half Marathon in Jammu organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department featuring 21 km 10 km and 5 km race categories witnessed the participation of more than 3000 runners from across the country and abroadTerming the Jammu Marathon as a historic milestone the LG said that Jammu has firmly established itself on the global running map He added that the success of the mega event promises a surge in tourism to the enchanting city of Jammu benefiting trade and businesses and heralding an era of comprehensive developmentI see the marathon as the one event where runners dont worry about trophies rankings or medals They just think about the next step And thats the biggest lesson from a marathon Jammu and Kashmir itself embodies this principle Since 2019 we have advanced one step at a time crafting a new identity for this Union TerritoryWe have transformed it into a hub of peace and prosperity now capable of hosting international marathons cricket tournaments and even international events LG Sinha saidHe recalled that when the Union government first conceived the Kashmir Marathon in December 2023 meeting the goal wasnt just to organise a race but it envisioned a new Jammu and Kashmir announcing its arrival on the global sporting stageUnder the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji Jammu and Kashmir is now showcasing its boundless tourism potential on the world map the LG addedHe said that longawaited dreams and aspirations are becoming a realityThrough Jammu Marathon the participants have not only discovered new experiences within themselves but also witnessed the profound changes sweeping Jammu and Kashmir he addedHe said that furled by the citizens unyielding resolve Jammu and Kashmir is setting new benchmarks in developmentThe renewed resolve taking root in our sporting arena I am especially delighted that in pursuit of Fit India we are also igniting a new sporting revolution in Jammu and Kashmir LG Sinha addedSatish Sharma Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Youth Services and Sports Atal Dulloo Chief Secretary Ashish Chandra Verma Additional Chief Secretary of Tourism Department Ramesh Kumar Divisional Commissioner Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti IGP Jammu and senior officials of civil and police administration were presentFilm actors Milind Soman and Gul Panag prominent citizens sportspersons and youth in large number also attended the felicitation ceremony IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/peace-prosperity-amp-enabling-conditions-made-jampk-world-class-destination-l-g-sinha-667080.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/peace-prosperity-amp-enabling-conditions-made-jampk-a-world-class-destination-l-g-sinha-667081.html Jammu March 29 Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor LG Manoj Sinha said on Sunday that peace prosperity and enabling conditions have made the Union Territory a destination for world class events LG Sinha said that the Jammu Marathon symbolises the profound transformation which Jammu and Kashmir has embraced since 2019Peace prosperity and enabling conditions have made the Union Territory a destination for worldclass events Its dream realised at last as after seven decades Jammu and Kashmir claims its rightful place on the global stage he addedHe was speaking at the felicitation ceremony of Jammu Marathon at the Maulana Azad Stadium in JammuThe firstever International Half Marathon in Jammu organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department featuring 21 km 10 km and 5 km race categories witnessed the participation of more than 3000 runners from across the country and abroadTerming the Jammu Marathon as a historic milestone the LG said that Jammu has firmly established itself on the global running mapHe added that the success of the mega event promises a surge in tourism to the enchanting city of Jammu benefiting trade and businesses and heralding an era of comprehensive developmentI see the marathon as the one event where runners dont worry about trophies rankings or medals They just think about the next step And thats the biggest lesson from a marathon Jammu and Kashmir itself embodies this principle Since 2019 we have advanced one step at a time crafting a new identity for this Union TerritoryWe have transformed it into a hub of peace and prosperity now capable of hosting international marathons cricket tournaments and even international events LG Sinha saidHe recalled that when the Union government first conceived the Kashmir Marathon in December 2023 meeting the goal wasnt just to organise a race but it envisioned a new Jammu and Kashmir announcing its arrival on the global sporting stageUnder the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji Jammu and Kashmir is now showcasing its boundless tourism potential on the world map the LG addedHe said that longawaited dreams and aspirations are becoming a realityThrough Jammu Marathon the participants have not only discovered new experiences within themselves but also witnessed the profound changes sweeping Jammu and Kashmir he addedHe said that furled by the citizens unyielding resolve Jammu and Kashmir is setting new benchmarks in developmentThe renewed resolve taking root in our sporting arena I am especially delighted that in pursuit of Fit India we are also igniting a new sporting revolution in Jammu and Kashmir LG Sinha addedSatish Sharma Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Youth Services and Sports Atal Dulloo Chief Secretary Ashish Chandra Verma Additional Chief Secretary of Tourism Department Ramesh Kumar Divisional Commissioner Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti IGP Jammu and senior officials of civil and police administration were presentFilm actors Milind Soman and Gul Panag prominent citizens sportspersons and youth in large number also attended the felicitation ceremony IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/peace-prosperity-amp-enabling-conditions-made-jampk-a-world-class-destination-l-g-sinha-667081.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/abhay-jain-granthalaya-director-thanks-pm-modi-for-mann-ki-baat-mention-667082.html Bikaner Rajasthan March 29 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday in his Mann Ki Baat address to the nation mentioned Abhay Jain Granthalaya a library housing ancient manuscripts Speaking to IANS Abhay Jain Granthalayas director Rishabh Nahata expressed his happiness after the mention of the granthalaya in PM Modis Mann Ki BaatIt is a matter of great pride and happiness It is an honour not only for the granthalaya but also for Bikaner and the entire RajasthanHe said that the granthalaya houses a vast collection of around 200000 manuscripts which were collected over a lifetime by Agar Chand Nahata He dedicated his body mind and wealth to building this library The collection includes texts in Sanskrit Prakrit Gurmukhi Telugu Tamil Bengali and several other languages Rishabh Nahata saidHe emphasised that under the Ministry of Cultureâs Gyan Bharat Mission work related to digitisation conservation and cataloguing is currently being carried out at the libraryNotably the Centres Gyan Bharatam Mission aims to safeguard Indias manuscript heritage by bringing it into the digital ageAdditionally a mega survey is underway as part of the Gyan Bharatam Mission he saidNahata also appealed to people who possess old or ancient manuscripts to come forward participate in the survey and share information about their collections so that the government can work on preserving them and spreading their significance furtherHe further explained that this work began after signing a Memorandum of Understanding MoU under the Gyan Bharatam Mission in October last year Since then digitisation and conservation efforts have been ongoing So far more than 200000 pages have been digitised and approximately 6600 manuscripts have been processed he saidHe added that this work takes considerable time as it involves scanning digitisation cataloguing and conservation all of which require following proper proceduresRegarding the age of the manuscripts Rishabh Nahata said They range from around 100 to 400 years old He also mentioned that the Abhay Jain Granthalaya itself is about 100 years old which explains why it holds such a rich collection of ancient manuscripts IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/abhay-jain-granthalaya-director-thanks-pm-modi-for-mann-ki-baat-mention-667082.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-assembly-passes-bill-for-salary-cut-for-parental-neglect-667083.html Hyderabad March 29 The Telangana Legislative Assembly on Sunday unanimously passed a Bill to deduct 15 per cent of salary from employees neglecting their parents The Telangana Employees Accountability and Monitoring of Parental Support Bill 2026 was passed after members cutting across party lines welcomed itThe Bill provides for deduction of up to 15 per cent or Rs 10000 â whichever is lower â from the gross salary of employees found to be neglecting their parents The deducted amount will be paid directly to the parentsIts scope extends beyond government staff to include private sector employees and public representatives such as MLAs MLCs corporators councillors and sarpanchesSC ST Welfare and Senior Citizens Minister Adluri Laxman Kumar moved the motion for passing the Bill which was adopted with a voice voteIn the Statement of Objects and Reasons the state government said instances of neglect of elderly parents are on the rise and argued that enforceable measures are required to reinforce family responsibility in a changing socioeconomic contextâArticle 21 of the Constitution of India asserts that the right to life includes the right to live with dignity Parents are an inseparable part of the Indian family system It is therefore considered necessary to provide enforceable norms among employees who neglect their parents and to ensure that every employee acts as a role model in societyâ reads the BillChief Minister A Revanth Reddy told the House that the Bill marks a pivotal step toward providing protection for elderly parentsHe stated that the government introduced the Bill after much deliberation with a profound sense of responsibility and deep emotional conviction This law is intended to instil fear in those who have no respect for their parentsThe Chief Minister voiced concern that people have forgotten human bonds and emotional tiesâultimately even disregarding the sacred bond of kinshipâbecoming completely immersed in a relentless pursuit of material comforts financial gain and wealthâIt does not reflect well upon this society when parentsâabandoned and left destituteâshed tearsâ he saidThe Chief Minister revealed that he knows a public representative who when his father was diagnosed with cancer neglected him and failed to provide care That father passed away recentlyHe called for the society to boycott those who fail to care for their parentsCM Revanth Reddy pointed out that the Centre brought the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007 to make an obligation for children to care for their parents but the neglect of parents continuedHe said that while the legislation may not resolve every problem the government brought the Bill as a matter of social responsibility and to instil confidence among elderly parents that they will get justiceâWe are introducing this bill with the firm intention that no parent should ever be left destitute nor should they face hardship regarding their care and wellbeing during their final daysâ he saidThe Chief Minister also spoke about the declining trend of joint familiesâIn the past people tended to have larger families If one child could not attend to their parents needs another would step in to provide care Nowadays circumstances have changed due to family planning families are often limited to just one or two children Although daughters may harbour deep affection for their parents they are often unable to provide care due to the responsibilities and obligations of their marital homesâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-assembly-passes-bill-for-salary-cut-for-parental-neglect-667083.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pakistan-south-waziristan-residents-face-mobile-network-disruptions-internet-outages-667084.html Islamabad March 29 Residents of Lower South Waziristan in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have been facing difficulties for the past two months due to mobile network disruptions and prolonged internet outages in several areas local media reported on Sunday Users of major telecom operators have said that they were facing persistent signal issues and frequent internet shutdowns disrupting communication and access to essential online services The situation has affected people from all walks of life including journalists traders business owners and students as they depend on digital connectivity for their daily activities Pakistani daily Dawn reportedOn Saturday local members of the Wazir tribe said that mobile signals in parts of Wana and Birmal tehsils have remained weak or completely unavailable for the past few weeks They mentioned that internet services also remain suspended for extended periodsThe most impacted regions include Sholam Spin Tanai Azam Warsak Ghowa Khowah Dabkot and Raghzai where residents are facing issues in making phone calls sending messages or using online platforms Many users have termed the situation unprecedented as connectivity in this era is considered a basic necessityResidents have said that the ongoing mobile disruption has impacted their routine lives Students have expressed concern over the inability to attend online classes complete assignments or use academic resources which they fear may impact their educational progressSimilarly members of the business community and trade associations have said that they suffered financial losses due to the breakdown in communication channels Dawn reportedJournalists have also reported that limited access to communication tools has affected timely reporting and information gatheringResidents of the impacted regions have urged the federal government and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority PTA to ensure the restoration of mobile and internet services on an emergency basis IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pakistan-south-waziristan-residents-face-mobile-network-disruptions-internet-outages-667084.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/day-after-jothimanis-criticism-bjps-vijayadharani-alleges-seats-being-sold-in-congress-667085.html Marthandam Tamil Nadu March 29 A day after Congress MP S Jothimani stirred a row by publicly criticising the partyâs seatsharing and candidate selection process within the DMKled alliance Bharatiya Janata Party BJP leader S Vijayadharani on Sunday supported her claim accusing the Congress of selling seats Reacting to the Congress MPs charges Vijayadharani told IANS that Jothimani has clearly stated that seats are being sold in the Congress adding This is not a new fact I know pretty wellVijayadharani who switched to the BJP from Congress in 2024 alleged that previously too such incidents had been reported in the partyThese things were happening in the Congress from way before and everybody knows Now Jothimani has expressed her anguish by telling the truth From this we clearly understand that seats are being sold and candidates are being elected in such a fashion in a very undemocratic way she saidUrging the voters to oppose such acts she said It is my request that such sale of seats should be opposed by the people of this country People should not vote for such a party and definitely should give a go by to such candidatesThe BJP leader also said that she will take on the responsibility to contest the polls only if the party insistsJothimani had voiced deep anguish over what she described as the neglect of loyal party workers who have contributed to the Congressâs growth in the state over the years It is painful to see the hard work of dedicated Congress cadres being undermined and effectively âsold offâ by individuals who have not contributed even minimally to strengthening the partyâ she saidIn a social media post she had warned that if what she termed a mercenary or salesdriven approach to seat allocation continues it could have serious consequences for the partyâs future in Tamil Nadu If this trend persists no one can save the Congress party in the state she cautionedThe Congress has been allotted 28 seats in the 234member Assembly for April 23 Assembly elections but the Karur MP claimed that the process behind selecting these constituencies was carried out in a highly secretive manner sidelining the views of party members and grassroots workers IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/day-after-jothimanis-criticism-bjps-vijayadharani-alleges-seats-being-sold-in-congress-667085.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-trial-run-begins-on-surat-metro-stretch-after-completion-of-85-km-viaduct-667086.html Surat March 29 Trial run of Metro train has commenced on a key stretch of the Surat Metro Rail Project after the completion of an 85 kmlong viaduct between Dream City and Althan Tenament officials said on Sunday The Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation GMRC confirmed that the elevated section on the designated route has been completed and testing operations have startedThe trial phase is expected to involve around 500 hours of train running to assess the systemâs performance reliability and safety before passenger services are introducedThe development marks a significant milestone in the progress of the Surat Metro which is being implemented to strengthen urban transport infrastructure in the cityThe project is being executed under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel with a focus on adhering to the fixed timelineAccording to officials key infrastructure work on the stretch has been completed including the laying of railway tracks and the installation of the third rail which supplies traction power to Metro trainsCivil construction of all seven station buildings along the route has also been finished Work is currently underway on entry and exit points along with interior and finishing activities at the stationsâTrial runs have begun on the viaduct section between Dream City and Althan Tenament after completion of major civil and systems works Around 500 hours of train operations will be carried out as part of testingâ an official saidBefore the corridor is opened for public use it will undergo detailed inspections by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation RDSO and the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety CMRSThese inspections will evaluate technical systems operational readiness and compliance with safety standardsâNecessary safety certifications will be obtained following inspections by RDSO and CMRS before commencing passenger servicesâ the official addedThe Surat Metro is part of broader efforts to modernise public transport and improve connectivity in the rapidly growing cityOnce operational the Metro is expected to offer a faster and more efficient mode of travel while contributing to a reduction in road traffic congestionOfficials said further updates on commissioning timelines will be shared after the completion of the trial and inspection processes IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-trial-run-begins-on-surat-metro-stretch-after-completion-of-85-km-viaduct-667086.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/v-p-radhakrishnan-stresses-on-inclusive-timely-amp-tech-driven-justice-for-citizens-667087.html New Delhi March 29 VicePresident CP Radhakrishnan on Sunday stressed on affordable inclusive and timely justice for citizens stressing on the need for strengthening access to justice through technologyenabled legal services Speaking at a National Consultation organised by the Department of Justice under the Ministry of Law and Justice the VicePresident said Legal empowerment depends on three priorities inclusivity quality and accountability and innovation or use of technology in a usercentric mannerHe added that the success of our legal system will depend on its inclusivity and its ability to reach the last mile to empower the marginalised sections of societyVicePresident Radhakrishnan cautioned that the use of technology should not compromise on the quality and accountability in dispensation of justiceIndia stands today at a defining moment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharing the vision for Viksit Bharat2047 For this the dismantling of the colonial laws which were designed to rule and not serve was needed The recent transmission to the new three criminal laws marked a big step towards citizencentric justice system he saidVicePresident Radhakrishnan said the Telelaw initiative is an example of technology being used to democratise the legal servicesThe prelitigation aspect of Telelaw initiative also helps in resolution of matter and reducing the burden of litigation he said highlighting the Union governments decision to make available the laws in regional languagesThe consultation provided a platform for deliberations policy dialogue and stakeholder engagement an official said in a statementThe National Consultation 2026 under the TeleLaw initiative of the Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice DISHA Scheme a central sector scheme is being implemented under the Access to Justice DivisionMinister of State Independent Charge for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal highlighted the importance of Telelaw initiative in making access to lawToday going to cities is not necessary to access justice or contacting a lawyer he said adding that the Telelaw initiative is serving well for delivering doorstep justiceHe also stressed on probono service by lawyers to make the justice accessibleThe event also saw the launch of the Voice of Beneficiaries Booklet 2025â26 which captures compelling stories of individuals whose lives have been positively impacted through TeleLaw services reflecting the transformative potential of digital access to justiceA comprehensive presentation on the progress of the DISHA Scheme across India including live interactions with TeleLaw Panel Lawyers Village Level Entrepreneurs and beneficiaries showcasing realtime experiences and the grassroots impact of technologyenabled legal aid was given at the consultationA special segment commemorated 150 years of the National Song Vande Mataram performed by local artists celebrating its historic and cultural significance the statement saidThe consultation featured the release of a white paper emerging from a technical session held prior to the event which brings together insights recommendations and best practices from experts policymakers and practitionersAn AIpowered chatbot Nyaya Setu was also launchedIt has been developed to act as a digital bridge between citizens and legal servicesDesigned to provide instant userfriendly legal information and guidance the chatbot will assist users in understanding their legal rights accessing TeleLaw services and navigating dispute resolution mechanismsA series of legal awareness comic books developed in collaboration with the National Law University in Delhi were launched during the eventThe event was attended by 1200 participants including officials from the Supreme Court eCommittee National Legal Services Authority members of the Bar Government counsels TeleLaw Panel Lawyers and Village Level Entrepreneurs the statement said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/v-p-radhakrishnan-stresses-on-inclusive-timely-amp-tech-driven-justice-for-citizens-667087.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/from-essay-to-pms-praise-pratham-barar-overwhelmed-after-mann-ki-baat-mention-667088.html Yamunanagar Haryana March 29 Pratham Barar a BCom student from Haryanaâs Yamunanagar on Sunday expressed immense surprise and happiness after Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned his name in the latest episode of âMann Ki Baatâ praising his thoughts on building a Green and Clean Bharat Speaking to IANS Pratham said he was still coming to terms with the recognition and described it as a moment of pride and disbeliefI am completely shocked that the essay I wrote where I expressed my thoughts on how we can improve the environment and protect it in a way that meets our present needs while also keeping the future safe has been recognised by the PM he saidI am very surprised and happy to know that the Prime Minister of the country mentioned my name in âMann Ki Baatâ My teacher Shashi Sir informed me about it It is a very big moment for my family and me he addedPratham said the mention has motivated him to continue working towards environmental protection and social awareness with even greater dedicationRecalling his journey he said that his interest in environmental conservation began during his school days In Class 11 I met Shashi Sir and I attended a onemonth summer camp with him at Bhagat Singh Park That experience inspired me a lot and shaped my thinking about how we can protect and preserve our environment he saidDespite facing personal challenges including the loss of his father Pratham continued to move forward with determination while balancing his studies and social workAfter joining college he became a part of the National Service Scheme NSS which further strengthened his commitment to community serviceThe motto of NSS is âNot Me But Youâ From this I learned that we should always think about others I also learned that we should plant more and more trees and adopt an ecofriendly lifestyle he saidHighlighting the role of youth Pratham added that NSS volunteers in his college are actively spreading awareness about cleanliness and environmental protection among peopleThe young student said that being acknowledged by the Prime Minister has reinforced his belief that even small efforts can make a differenceâThis recognition has given me a lot of motivation I will continue to work for the environment and encourage others to do the sameâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/from-essay-to-pms-praise-pratham-barar-overwhelmed-after-mann-ki-baat-mention-667088.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-israel-farm-ties-poised-for-big-leap-667089.html New Delhi March 29 IANS The IndiaIsrael cooperation in agriculture has received a huge push with the announcement during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Jerusalem last month of setting up more Centres of Excellence as hightech agricultural hubs and taking these further to the village level to ensure that the use of modern farm techniques percolates directly to the grassrootsnbspAt the heart of the IndiaIsraeli partnership have been Centres of Excellence CoEs hightech agricultural hubs codesigned by Israeli experts and Indian agricultural institutionsnbspWhile 32 of these are already operational 18 more have been under developmentnbspDuring this visit to Israel PM Modi announced their decision to take this number to 100 to ensure enhanced productivity and income for Indian farmersnbspThese CoEs have adapted Israeli innovations and best practices in drip irrigation fertigation protected cultivation pest management nursery technology and waterefficient horticulture to local Indian onditionsThese have trained thousands of Indian farmers across states from Punjab to Karnataka in new methods to boost the quality and quantity of cropsnbspWhile comprehensive statewide income data is still emerging early field surveys show that farmers participating in CoE and allied programmes have reported higher monthly net incomes thanks to better crop quality and reduced input waste according to an article in The Diplomatist magazinenbspIt is in this backdrop that Prime Minister Modi along with his Israeli counterpart Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a new grassrootscentric initiative known as Villages of Excellence This shift from isolated demonstration plots to communitylevel transformation seeks to embed Israeli technologies directly into Indian village ecosystems It means farmers wont merely visit a CoE site they can experience tailored irrigation systems satellitebased soil monitoring and realtime decision support right in their home districts the article notedThis enduring partnership in the agriculture sector has ensured mutual benefit for both sides Indian farmers have learned new ways of saving water increasing yields and boosting incomes Israels precision systems from drip and microsprinkler irrigation to automated fertigation can cut water use by up to 4060 per cent compared to traditional surface irrigation a vital improvement in waterstressed regions of India the article saysIt highlights that in CoE sites horticulture crops tomato capsicum and melon yields have risen between 20 and 40 per cent within a few seasons as growers adopt controlled environments and calibrated nutrient regimesnbspBesides the training in postharvest handling and integrated pest management reduces losses has improved market value for smallholders which has resulted in major gains in states such as Maharashtra and Uttar PradeshLikewise Israeli farmers and agritech sectors have also benefitted as Indian demand provides Israeli technology firms especially those specialising in Artificial Intelligencedriven crop analytics sensors and automated irrigation systems with a vast field of laboratories and a commercial pathway which makes their partnership mutually beneficial the article addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-israel-farm-ties-poised-for-big-leap-667089.html Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-assembly-passes-resolution-seeking-statutory-capital-status-for-amaravati-666939.html Amaravati March 28 In a definitive move to resolve years of administrative and legal ambiguity Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday moved a landmark resolution in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly urging the Centre to grant statutory recognition to Amaravati as the official capital of the state A special Assembly session was convened specifically to deliberate and pass this resolution marking a significant step toward providing longterm stability and legal clarity to the capital city issueDuring his address the Chief Minister emphasised that permanent legal certainty can only be achieved through specific amendments to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2014The Andhra Pradesh Assembly subsequently resolved to request the Government of India to amend Section 5 of the Act by explicitly inserting the words âat Amaravatiâ into subsection 2Furthermore the resolution seeks to expand the legal explanation to clarify that Amaravati encompasses all areas officially notified under the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority APCRDA Act 2014This legislative push comes against the backdrop of an unprecedented urban development effort initiated over a decade agoThe Amaravati capital project is estimated to be about Rs 64000 crore with the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority serving as the implementing agencyFor the Amaravati capital around 30000 farmers voluntarily pooled over 34000 acres of fertile land for the development of a greenfield cityThis massive land bank was intended to host a worldclass city avoiding the traditional delays associated with land acquisitionFinancially the project has seen a massive infusion of support from both the State and the Centre besides other agenciesThe Centre committed a dedicated financial package of Rs 15000 crore for the development of the capital of which about Rs 4200 crore has reportedly been released while international agencies including the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank have moved forward with loans totalling approximately Rs 13500 croreDomestic institutions like HUDCO have also stepped in with a Rs 11000 crore credit line to jumpstart stalled infrastructureConcluding his speech Chief Minister Naidu urged all members of the House to support the resolution stating that statutory backing is the final seal needed to protect the dreams of the people and the investments made by thousands of farmers IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-assembly-passes-resolution-seeking-statutory-capital-status-for-amaravati-666939.html Sat, 28 Mar 2026 14:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/olis-arrest-should-not-be-viewed-as-retaliation-says-ex-nepal-minister-chaulagain-666951.html Kathmandu March 28 According to former Nepal Minister Madhav Prasad Chaulagain the arrest of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli by the newlyelected government should not be viewed as retaliation Speaking to IANS Chaulagain called the Prime Minister Balendra Shahled new government young and inclusive Former Nepal PM Oli and exHome Minister Ramesh Lekhak were arrested on Saturday in connection with a culpable homiciderelated case linked to the forceful suppression of Gen Z protests in 2025 that left several protesters deadHere are some excerpts from the interviewIANS The former Prime Minister of Nepal has been arrested How do you see thatMP Chaulagain I think it is a part of the routine process that this new Nepal government has initiated A committee was formed and that panel had provided its investigation report to the previous government and it was in the process of implementation So we see this as part of the implementation of that reportIANS This arrest is being linked to the Gen Z protests during which protestors where shot at and many diedMP Chaulagain This is all about the investigation yes On the 8th of September 2025 mass shooting targeting youths schoolchildren and Gen Z protestors took place That was the reason behind the initial revolt leading to widespread destruction That was the essence of the report In a way this arrest is linked to thatIANS Was this arrest already planned or was it a move by the new governmentMP Chaulagain No one cannot say it was preplanned This new government was just formed yesterday and the first decision they made was to take cognizance of the investigation report This is in public interest due to demands from the youth Gen Zs The report was accepted by the previous government and this new decision has come from the first Cabinet I think So it is a routine process you may sayThis new government needed to give a message to the public that they are keeping their promises Those who were involved in the September uprising those who overexercised their power should be punished It is also linked to the fresh mandate by the people through this ballot So that is why I think this new government wanted to show that they are fulfilling their promises to the peopleIANS After this arrest will the situation in Nepal remain stable or could the Oli supporters create problemsMP Chaulagain Yes there are some protests Specially people who support exPM OliThere are some voices which say this government might be moving towards a retaliatory approach But if it is properly handled through the judicial process that will not cause big trouble Because the government has the authority to make sure that they have implemented all governing mechanisms So the arrest should not be viewed as retaliation But if they do not provide clear justice or if legal procedures arent followed then it is a big problemSo we hope that this current government handles this with proper judicial processes legal procedures then it should not be a big issue Even though politically some sections may come out against this they will raise their voice but overall if you look at the fresh mandate the public sentiment is towards this Balendra Shah government So protests will not increase in a big way that is what I can surmiseIANS How do you see the new government in NepalMP Chaulagain Historically it is seen as truly representing the characteristics of Nepal The diversity we have ethnic or linguistic diversity it represents that All the provinces are represented and it has shown an inclusive nature At the same time there are educated people in it welltrained in many fields And it is a very young government as well IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/olis-arrest-should-not-be-viewed-as-retaliation-says-ex-nepal-minister-chaulagain-666951.html Sat, 28 Mar 2026 16:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mamata-banerjee-should-answer-why-bengal-is-only-state-where-sir-faced-so-many-hurdles-hm-shah-666952.html Kolkata March 28 IANS Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee should answer why West Bengal is the only state in the entire country where the Special Intensive Revision SIR exercise had hit so many hurdles following which the Supreme Court ultimately had to order judicial adjudication Union Home Minister Amit Shah questioned on SaturdaynbspThe revision exercise had been completed in a total of 14 states including those that are Oppositionruled The SIR had been completed in two other pollbound states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala with both states being OppositionruledNowhere had the revision exercise faced so many hurdles Why did the Supreme Court have to order a judicial adjudication only in West Bengal This was because the district magistrates in West Bengal were not performing in an unbiased manner Mamata Banerjee should explain why SIR had become an issue only in the state ruled by her Shah said while addressing media persons on the occasion of the release of the White Paper against the Trinamool Congress government which the BJP has described as the chargesheet of the publicThe Union Home Minister also accused Chief Minister Banerjee of unnecessarily making an issue out of the Election Commission of India ECIs decision to transfer replace and depute bureaucrats and police officers to other statesThe ECI transfers officers before the elections all over the country This is nothing new However in West Bengal the majority of the officers operate at the behest of the ruling party So the transfer rate is high in West Bengal This time violence in this state during Ram Navami has decreased because of the change in officers he saidAccording to him the only reason why Mamata Banerjee and the ruling Trinamool Congress had opposed the SIR so vehemently was that they wanted to protect illegal infiltrators by retaining their names in the voters list so that the party could rule the state for another five yearsBut this time that dream of Trinamool Congress will never be fulfilled the Union Home Minister saidHe also accused the Chief Minister of playing imaginary victim cards before any election As soon as the elections come Mamata Banerjee either breaks her leg or falls ill She seeks peoples sympathy by showing some illness or another But that ploy will not work out this time Shah saidHe also said that Mamata Banerjees allegations that Bengalis in India are in danger are also politically motivatedShe is trying to confuse people by projecting Bangladeshi infiltrators as Bengalispeaking Indians Those who enter India illegally from Bangladesh also speak Bengali No one in this state needs to worry But we are firmly resolved to find out the infiltrators and expel them from the country he saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mamata-banerjee-should-answer-why-bengal-is-only-state-where-sir-faced-so-many-hurdles-hm-shah-666952.html Sat, 28 Mar 2026 16:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tamil-nadu-receives-over-648-lakh-voter-applications-ahead-of-polls-final-list-on-april-6-666959.html Chennai March 28 Tamil Nadu has recorded a significant surge in voter enrolment ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections with more than 648 lakh applications submitted during the extended revision window The updated and consolidated electoral roll is scheduled to be published on April 6 which also marks the final date for filing nominationsThe enrolment drive follows the publication of the final electoral roll on February 23 after the completion of the Special Intensive Revision SIR which pegged the total number of voters in the State at 567 croreIn view of the impending elections authorities provided an additional opportunity for eligible citizens to register allowing applications to be submitted until March 26 During this extended period a total of 648285 applications were received across the State Of these 289581 applications were submitted by men while women accounted for a higher share with 358500 applicationsAdditionally 204 applications were received from third gender individuals reflecting continued efforts toward inclusive electoral participationElection officials have confirmed that all applications received by the March 26 deadline will be duly processed and incorporated into the revised electoral rollThe April 6 publication will feature a single consolidated list that integrates all additions made since the February 23 roll ensuring that newly registered voters are eligible to participate in the forthcoming Assembly electionsIn a notable shift from previous practices authorities have decided not to release separate supplementary lists detailing additions deletions or corrections Instead political parties will be provided with a unified and updated electoral roll that reflects all changes in one comprehensive documentThis move is expected to streamline the electoral process and minimise confusion among stakeholders The large number of applications particularly from women voters highlights growing public engagement in the democratic process as Tamil Nadu gears up for a crucial electoral contestWith the nomination process closing on April 6 the publication of the final roll will play a pivotal role in determining voter eligibility and shaping the electoral landscape in the State IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tamil-nadu-receives-over-648-lakh-voter-applications-ahead-of-polls-final-list-on-april-6-666959.html Sat, 28 Mar 2026 17:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/vice-president-visits-birsa-mundas-village-in-jharkhand-pays-tribute-meets-descendants-666960.html Ranchi March 28 Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Saturday visited Ulihatu the ancestral village of tribal icon Birsa Munda in Jharkhandâs Khunti district and paid homage to his memory He offered floral tributes at the statue of Birsa Munda and later interacted with his descendants and family membersDescribing the visit as deeply moving the Vice President said Birsa Mundaâs life continues to inspire the youth of the nation and that his sacrifices gave a new direction to Indiaâs freedom struggle He noted that this was his first visit to the revered birthplace of âDharti Aabaâ since assuming officeRecalling his earlier visit to Ulihatu during his tenure as Jharkhand Governor he termed the experience significant and reaffirmed that Birsa Mundaâs legacy would continue to guide future generationsHe highlighted the decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to declare November 15 Birsa Mundaâs birth anniversary as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas in 2021 calling it a step towards enhancing national awareness of tribal heritageReferring to initiatives for tribal welfare the Vice President mentioned the PMJANMAN scheme aimed at the protection and empowerment of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups PVTGs underscoring the governmentâs focus on inclusive developmentHe stressed that greater awareness of the contributions and struggles of tribal freedom fighters is essential during the âAmrit Kaalâ as it reflects the realisation of the rights and dignity for which Birsa Munda foughtDuring the visit the Vice President also interacted with local villagers and was accorded a traditional âJoharâ welcome Enthusiastic crowds gathered in Ulihatu and nearby areas to greet himElaborate security arrangements were in place throughout the visit Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar and state minister Irfan Ansari were also present on the occasionIn a short life of only 25 years Birsa Munda became the hero of peopleâs resistance against British colonial exploitation When the British authorities and local landlords were exploiting tribal communities grabbing their lands and committing atrocities Munda rose against this social and economic injustice and led people to fight for their rightsKnown as âDharti Abaâ âFather of the Earthâ Bhagwan Birsa organised the âUlgulanâ or the Munda Rebellion against British oppression in the late 1890s IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/vice-president-visits-birsa-mundas-village-in-jharkhand-pays-tribute-meets-descendants-666960.html Sat, 28 Mar 2026 17:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-elections-dmk-likely-to-release-candidate-list-today-poll-campaign-intensifies-666770.html Chennai March 27 The DMK is likely to release its candidate list on Friday signalling a major step in its preparations for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections scheduled for April 23 The announcement is expected to come after Chief Minister MK Stalin finalises seat allocations within the DMKled allianceWith the nomination process set to begin on March 30 and vote counting scheduled for May 4 political activity across Tamil Nadu has intensified Major parties including the DMK AIADMK NDA and actor Vijayâs Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam TVK have accelerated their campaigns focusing on alliance negotiations seatsharing arrangements and voter outreachWithin the DMKled alliance most seatsharing discussions have been largely concludedThe DMK is likely to contest 164 constituencies while its allies will field candidates in the remaining seats The Congress is likely to contest 28 seats followed by the DMDK with 10 seats Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi VCK with eight seats and both the CPI and the CPIM with five seats eachThe MDMK has been allocated four seats Other alliance partners include the Indian Union Muslim League two seats Humanist Peopleâs Party two Kongunadu Peopleâs National Party two Humanist Democratic Party one Social Democratic Party of India SDPI one Mukkulathor Pulipadai one and Tamil Desiya Katchi oneSources indicate that final consultations are underway and Chief Minister Stalin is likely to officially announce both the constituency allocation for allies and the DMKâs candidate list later in the dayIn addition to the candidate announcement the DMK is also preparing to release its election manifesto which has been drafted by a committee led by MP Kanimozhi The manifesto is expected to outline the partyâs key promises and policy priorities ahead of the pollsFollowing these announcements CM Stalin is scheduled to launch the DMKâs statewide campaign from Thiruvarur on April 2 He is expected to address a series of public meetings across the state seeking support for DMK candidates and its alliance partners as the election campaign enters a decisive phase IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-elections-dmk-likely-to-release-candidate-list-today-poll-campaign-intensifies-666770.html Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/not-financial-sacrifice-by-govt-but-return-of-taxpayers-money-oppn-calls-excise-duty-cut-politically-driven-666799.html New Delhi March 27 IANS The Congress on Friday said that the governments revenue ultimately comes from the peoples pockets asserting that any reduction in excise duty is not a financial sacrifice by the government but a return of taxpayers money Shiv Sena UBT MP also questioned the intent behind the move with some calling it politicallymotivatedThis comes after the Centre slashed excise duties on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre each bringing them down to Rs 3 per litre for petrol and zero for diesel in a bid to cushion the impact of rising global oil pricesSpeaking to reporters Congress MP Manish Tewari said he had seen Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puris statement and emphasised that government revenue is derived from taxes paid by citizensIf the government reduces excise duty even slightly it is not spending its own money from its pocket he said adding that presenting it as a major relief was misleadingTewari further remarked that portraying the move as a generous gesture was inappropriateThe people pay taxes to the government In an unprecedented global situation if excise duty is reduced what is the need to show off It is not as if the money is coming from an individuals pocket he addedPramod Tiwari also criticised the move likening it to offering minimal relief after imposing a heavy burden He said fuel prices had risen sharply compared to earlier years placing a significant strain on the publicTiwari said It is like someone committing a robbery and then tossing aside just a couple of coins from the loot that is precisely what the Modi government is doing When the Congress government left the central excise duty on petrol was Rs 948 per litre and today it is Rs 3298 almost a four times increase Diesel central excise duty was Rs 356 per liter and now it is Rs 31 nearly a tenfold riseMeanwhile Shiv Sena UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said that while some relief was necessary given rising global oil prices the decision appeared to be driven by electoral considerations ahead of Assembly polls in some statesIt is important because with the way oil prices are rising it is necessary to provide some relief to the public However I feel this decision is largely due to electoral reasons If you recall last week as soon as the conflict between Iran and Israel began they immediately raised LPG prices both commercial and domestic Now they see that they could face losses in the forthcoming Assembly elections which is why the BJP has taken this decision I hope that this war stops and secondly I hope that the rates do not increase after the polls If they are taking such a step then its the responsibility of the government to provide relief to the people she told IANSRJD MP Misa Bharti also reacted to the development and said There has been a cut in prices but still these resources are not easily available in the country Whether its LPG petrol or diesel long queues are seen everywhere https://dailyworld.in/politics/not-financial-sacrifice-by-govt-but-return-of-taxpayers-money-oppn-calls-excise-duty-cut-politically-driven-666799.html Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-leaders-welcome-centres-move-to-cut-fuel-duty-by-rs-10-per-litre-666807.html Gandhinagar March 27 The Gujarat government has welcomed the central governments move to cut excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said âToday when there has been a sharp rise in crude oil prices at the global level the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again demonstrated his sensitivity towards the people of the country by prioritising the welfare of citizens above all elseâHe further noted âThe Central Government has made a significant reduction in excise duty on petrol and diesel which reflects Modis unwavering commitment to protecting every Indian from the situation of global instabilityPatel also thanked Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stating that the decision had been implemented promptly Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said the reduction would provide relief to consumersâAmid the West Asia crisis the reduction of Rs 10 per litre in central excise duty on petrol and diesel is a decision that provides significant relief to the common peopleâ he saidHe added âThis step by Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflects his commitment to protecting citizens from the impact of rising pricesâ and stated that âin every challenging time Modiâs decisive leadership has provided the country with security stability and confidenceâOfficials said the excise duty cut forms part of a broader policy response that includes measures such as adjustments to export duties on petroleum products to prioritise domestic supplyThe Union government on Friday reduced central excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre as a measure to cushion consumers from rising global crude oil prices linked to the ongoing West Asia crisis and disruptions in energy supply chainsThe duty reduction lowers the levy on petrol from Rs 13 to Rs 3 per litre and effectively removes it on dieselThe move comes amid heightened volatility in international oil markets including pressures on key transit routes such as the Strait of Hormuz which have contributed to elevated crude prices IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-leaders-welcome-centres-move-to-cut-fuel-duty-by-rs-10-per-litre-666807.html Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/retail-petrol-and-diesel-prices-wont-change-excise-cut-to-offset-oil-firms-losses-govt-666818.html New Delhi March 27 The government on Friday said retail pump prices of petrol and diesel will not change and the excise reduction is not being passed on as a price cut at the pump Instead it directly reduces the underrecoveries being absorbed by public sector oil marketing companies OMCs â Indian Oil Corporation Bharat Petroleum Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation â who have continued to supply fuel to Indian consumers at prices well below their cost of supply the Petroleum Ministry saidAt current international crude prices underrecoveries stand at approximately Rs 26 per litre on petrol and Rs 8190 per litre on dieselThe combined daily underrecovery being absorbed by OMCs is approximately Rs 2400 croreThe excise reduction offsets Rs 10 per litre of these losses ensuring OMCs can continue to supply fuel without disruption while keeping retail prices unchanged said the ministryThe government has reduced excise duty by Rs 10 per litre on both petrol and diesel with immediate effectThis decision has been taken in response to the steep and rapid rise in international crude oil prices which have surged from approximately 70 per barrel to around 122 per barrel over the past month â an increase of nearly 75 per cent in under four weeks driven by the ongoing conflict in West Asia and associated disruptions to global energy supply chains the ministry saidThe contrast with global fuel markets is instructive Fuel prices have risen by 30 to 50 per cent across South and SouthEast Asian countries 30 per cent in North America and 20 per cent in Europe since the onset of the current crisis India has held the line That stability carries a fiscal cost and the government has chosen to bear itEarlier in the day Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi decided to take a hit on government finances to safeguard the Indian citizenThe government has taken a substantial impact on its taxation revenues to reduce the high losses being faced by oil marketing companies at this time of skyhigh international prices he mentionedAlongside the excise reduction the government has simultaneously introduced an export levy on diesel At a time when international diesel prices have surged sharply the levy is designed to disincentivise exports and ensure that refinery output is directed first towards meeting domestic demandKeeping Indian pumps fully supplied takes precedence over export opportunities however commercially attractive those may be at current global prices The government will continue to monitor the evolving global energy situation and take all measures necessary to maintain supply stability and price protection for Indian consumers IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/retail-petrol-and-diesel-prices-wont-change-excise-cut-to-offset-oil-firms-losses-govt-666818.html Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/former-babri-masjid-litigant-gifts-lord-ram-lallas-picture-to-security-staff-devotees-666820.html Ayodhya Uttar Pradesh March 27 On the occasion of the Ram Navami festival former Babri Masjid litigant Iqbal Ansari on Friday presented Lord Ram Lallaâs picture as gifts to security staff and other devotees Ram Navami which marks the birth of Lord Ram the seventh avatar of Vishnu is celebrated during the nineday Chaitra Navratri and is seen as a time to reflect on values such as truth compassion and righteousnessThis is Ayodhyas faith This is the prasad I distribute it among everyone including the security staff and all those people who come here This is my happiness that I could give it to people It is my devotion to God Ansari told IANS Today is Ram Navami It is a historic day It is because of peoples faith in Lord Ram that they come to Ayodhya and take this Lord Ram Lallaâs picture in the form of prasadAnsari also highlighted the significance of the holy cityAyodhya is a religious place It is the city of Lord Ram a city of gods and goddesses A place like Ayodhya doesnt exist anywhere in the world because the Lord himself resides in Ayodhya he saidAnsari further emphasised the Surya Tilak ritual at the Ram Temple that took place on Ram NavamiThe ritual known as Surya Abhishek or Surya Tilak began in 2024 and has taken place every year on the occasion of Ram Navami It involved the sunrays directly touching the forehead of the deity This symbolic gesture created a divine atmosphere within the temple premises on the birthday of Lord RamAnsari said This is a matter of immense happiness for everyone in the country All the devotees who have come here from outside are happy that on this day they will be able to perform darshan of the LordPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday witnessed the sacred Surya Tilak ceremony of Ram Lalla on the occasion of Ram Navami observing the event on screen and offering prayers to Lord Ram for the wellbeing of the nation IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/former-babri-masjid-litigant-gifts-lord-ram-lallas-picture-to-security-staff-devotees-666820.html Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-hc-asks-eci-to-decide-on-plea-against-bjp-candidate-in-two-months-666822.html Kochi March 27 The Kerala High Court on Friday directed the Election Commission of India ECI to consider within two months a representation alleging communal remarks made by BJP leader B Gopalakrishnan during the ongoing Assembly election campaign in Guruvayur Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas issued the directive while disposing of a writ petition filed by Kerala Studentsâ Union KSU leader GokulThe petitioner had sought action against the NDA candidate accusing him of violating election laws through alleged communal social media postsGopalakrishnan contesting from Guruvayur Assembly constituency had reportedly posted content claiming that rival parties had failed to field Hindu candidates in the constituencyThe remarks triggered legal action with the Guruvayoor Temple Police Station registering a case under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita as well as the Representation of the People ActDuring the hearing the Court noted that a First Information Report FIR had already been registered in connection with the incident and that the controversial video had been taken downIt also observed that the petitioner has already approached the Election Commission of India with a formal complaint which remains pendingIn its order the Court emphasised that since the statutory remedy before the Election Commission had not yet been exhausted it would be appropriate for the ECI to take a considered view on the matterThe bench refrained from making any substantive observations on the merits of the allegations citing the ongoing election processâSince the election has already commenced it is not appropriate for the Court to make any observation that would have a bearing on the proposed electionâ the Court said while directing the ECI to decide the representation within two months of receiving the orderWith this direction the petition was disposed of leaving the Election Commission to determine the course of action in the politically sensitive case IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-hc-asks-eci-to-decide-on-plea-against-bjp-candidate-in-two-months-666822.html Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/fuel-price-cut-by-centre-politically-motivated-ktaka-dy-cm-shivakumar-666830.html Bengaluru March 27 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Friday criticised the Central government over the reduction in fuel prices alleging that it was politically motivated He was responding to questions from the media near his residence in Bengaluru regarding the Centreâs decision to reduce the special additional excise duty on fuelâThe Government of India is killing us They have reduced fuel prices for the elections Meanwhile Nayara company has increased fuel pricesâ he saidWhen asked whether the state government would also reduce fuel prices Shivakumar said âWe will speak about it laterâResponding to a question on whether minority votes would be split in the byelection Shivakumar said âThere will be no division under any circumstances Not just minorities even other communities will remain united Davanagere South candidate Samarth Mallikarjun will win with a bigger margin than late Shamanur Shivashankarappa who represented the seat Samarth was like a son raised by him I am confident he will win The entire state has seen the contributions made by that family to Davanagere and people remember themâ Shivakumar stated On reports of dissatisfaction and suspensions within the party ahead of the byelection he said âI have not signed any suspension orders These are local developments The Chief Minister and I have discussed the matter but we will not make it public Senior leaders like Zameer Ahmad Khan Jabbar and Nazeer will follow the partyâs direction There is no doubt about that There may be wrestlers and strongmen but they are all ours Differences are natural during elections and we will handle themâOn the issue of MLAs demanding IPL tickets Shivakumar said âMLAs have a right as they are part of the government and the system We have allowed matches to be conducted under pressure I may be a member of the Karnataka State Cricket Association KSCA but that is a separate matter I will discuss with the KSCA president about facilitating access for our MLAs to watch the matchesâResponding to BJP MP Tejasvi Suryaâs criticism that such demands were unnecessary Shivakumar said âHe should advise the leaders of his own party not usâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/fuel-price-cut-by-centre-politically-motivated-ktaka-dy-cm-shivakumar-666830.html Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/not-wrong-for-mlas-to-seek-ipl-tickets-says-karnataka-minister-666833.html Bengaluru March 27 Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has defended the demands made by state legislators in the Assembly for VIP treatment and IPL tickets suggesting that there was nothing wrong with the request Speaking to the media on Friday Parameshwara said âThere is nothing wrong in MLAs asking for IPL tickets in the House The question is to what extent the government should be involved So far the government has not been involved in such matters However in 2025 after the tragic stampede incident we were compelled to step inâHe added that earlier the police only provided security but now they will also ensure that no untoward incidents occur âWe have constituted the Michael DâCunha Commission and taken its recommendations into account A new committee has been formed within the Karnataka State Cricket Association KSCA and we have conveyed the recommendations to themâ he saidParameshwara further stated that KSCA was informed that matches could not be conducted without implementing the safety recommendations âAfter this they complied with the guidelines There is nothing wrong with asking for tickets but it is up to KSCA and Royal Challengers Bengaluru RCB to decide how passes or tickets are distributedâ he addedWhen asked about the lack of consensus on a Cabinet reshuffle and reports of MLAs planning to visit Delhi after the bypolls Parameshwara said âIt is true that MLAs have hosted dinner meetings and sought appointments in Delhi They have the right to do so Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has already stated in the House that all 224 MLAs are eligible to become ministers and those found suitable will be given opportunitiesâOn the ongoing agitation over internal reservation he said that it is natural for communities to protest for justice âThe government will take a final decision within the framework of the law Their demands will be examined based on the principles of social justiceâ he saidHe also clarified that legal concerns led to the postponement of a special Cabinet meeting âThe Chief Minister and Chief Secretary examined the legal position Even discussions held in the Cabinet if made public could influence voters and violate Election Commission guidelines Therefore the matter was discussed with the Advocate General and the Election Commission who advised that holding a special Cabinet meeting at this time would not be appropriateâ he saidâAs a result the meeting has been postponed to April 9 Until then no notifications can be issuedâ he addedIt can be recalled that the issue of tickets for Karnataka MLAs for IPL matches at Bengalurus M Chinnaswamy Stadium was raised in the Assembly on Thursday with Speaker UT Khader urging the government to take up the matter with the authorities concernedKhader said that MLAs are currently being issued only one ordinary ticket reportedly due to concerns that legislators often pass on their tickets to others leading to overcrowding and management issues in the VIP galleryHe pointed out that this arrangement was causing inconvenience and embarrassment to MLAs When an MLA goes to watch a match the staff may not recognise them and may not treat them with due respect As a result many MLAs are reluctant to attend matches he saidThe Speaker suggested that the authorities be called for discussions and a clear policy be put in place He recommended that at least four tickets be issued to each MLA and that proper arrangements be made to ensure they are treated with respect His remarks were welcomed by legislators who thumped their desks in supportLeader of Opposition R Ashoka alleged that the authorities would not comply easily and suggested that the government use its regulatory powers He questioned the granting of CL7 liquor licences at the Chinnaswamy Cricket Stadium during matches and the operation of bars at the venue Tighten the screws and they will fall in line he remarkedDeputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar responded that he would look into the issue IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/not-wrong-for-mlas-to-seek-ipl-tickets-says-karnataka-minister-666833.html Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/centres-rs-10-fuel-tax-cut-eases-burden-on-common-people-karnataka-bjp-666845.html Bengaluru March 27 Karnataka BJP President and MLA BY Vijayendra has said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a firm decision in favour of the common people of the country by reducing excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 thereby easing the burden on citizens Speaking to media persons on Friday in Bengaluru he said that at a time of global conflict he would like to congratulate PM Modi and the Union Petroleum Minister on behalf of the people of the state and the country for this decisionHe alleged that the Congress government in the state has wasted three years merely criticising the Central government He said the Chief Minister and his cabinet colleagues must understand the propeople concern demonstrated by PM ModiResponding to a question Vijayendra said that in countries like the United States and Australia people are bearing a burden of 25 to 30 per cent whereas in India the Centreâs decision to reduce excise duty has brought relief to citizens and is welcomeHe further accused the Congress of having a longstanding habit of blaming others to cover up its own failures He said the Chief Minister has completed three years in office only by criticising the Centre and questioned what achievements the Congress government has to show during this period He added that even the public is raising the same questionOn another question regarding MLAs demanding IPL tickets he said he had observed statements from both ruling and opposition MLAs and personally does not agree with such demands He noted that public perception of politicians can be seen in newspapers and on televisionHe recalled that during a previous IPL match 11 innocent people lost their lives due to the ruling partyâs âmismanagementâ and said that the people of the state and the country have not forgotten the incident In such a situation he questioned the need for such statements and made it clear that he does not support themHe added that it is not a healthy development for elected representatives to be seen as different or as VIPs compared to common people and reiterated that he does not support such a mindsetResponding to a query about JDS leaders participating in nomination filing in Davanagere and Bagalkot he said he had spoken over the phone with former Chief Minister and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy who has indicated he would give time after April 1 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/centres-rs-10-fuel-tax-cut-eases-burden-on-common-people-karnataka-bjp-666845.html Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-polls-ramadoss-to-announce-new-political-outfit-today-as-pmk-rift-deepens-666648.html Chennai March 26 Dr S Ramadoss is set to announce the launch of a new political outfit on Thursday marking a decisive split within the PMK even as the rift with his son Anbumani Ramadoss deepens ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections The announcement expected later in the day at Thailapuram Estate in Tindivanam is likely to formalise a longsimmering leadership conflict that has now erupted into a fullfledged political division Party insiders say the move comes after weeks of mounting tension public disagreements and organisational uncertainty within the PMKThe crisis escalated after the Election Commission recognised Anbumani Ramadoss as the legitimate leader of the party granting him control over the PMK name and its widely recognised âmangoâ symbol Dr Ramadoss challenged the decision in court hoping to retain authority over the party he foundedHowever the courtâs ruling went against him dealing a significant setback and accelerating his decision to establish a separate political platformWith the legal route exhausted Dr Ramadoss is now preparing to test his political strength independently The veteran leader has already aligned with a new formation backed by VK Sasikala under the banner of the All India Revolutionary Leader Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam to contest the upcoming Assembly electionsMeanwhile Anbumani Ramadoss has moved swiftly to consolidate his position within the PMK His faction has aligned with the AIADMKled National Democratic Alliance NDA and secured 18 seats as part of the alliance arrangement positioning him as the official face of the party in the upcoming electoral battleThe developments have triggered confusion and concern among PMK cadres across Tamil Nadu with many grassroots workers uncertain about which faction to supportThe split is expected to have a direct impact on the partyâs traditional vote base particularly in northern districts where the PMK has historically held influenceEfforts are already underway to register the new party with the Election Commission of IndiaMukilan son of PMK General Secretary Anbazhagan has reportedly applied for the name âAyya Pasarai Makkal Katchiâ which is expected to be abbreviated as âAyya PMKâ Dr Ramadossâs formal announcement later in the day is likely to mark a crucial turning point in Tamil Naduâs political landscape ahead of the Assembly elections IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-polls-ramadoss-to-announce-new-political-outfit-today-as-pmk-rift-deepens-666648.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 09:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chinas-grip-on-key-minerals-sparks-us-alarm-lawmakers-demand-swift-supply-chain-fixes-666652.html Washington March 25 Top American lawmakers and experts have warned that the countrys heavy reliance on foreign critical minerals especially those from China poses a direct threat to national security and called for urgent steps to build resilient domestic supply chains At a House subcommittee hearing on Wednesday Congressman Paul Gosar said the âvery security of our nation relies heavily on a steady inputâ of minerals essential for defence systems electronics and advanced technologies He pointed to copper rare earths and lithium as key inputs for fighter jets missiles and batteriesGosar warned that the US remains heavily reliant on imports âWe import half of our supply of 20 of the 60 mineralsâ and we are entirely reliant on the importation of 13â he said adding that China dominates global processing and refining capacityLawmakers from both parties agreed that the supply chain vulnerability has strategic implications Representative Jared Huffman said the issue was not just about resources but governance alleging that billions in federal investments lacked transparency and oversightExpert witnesses told the panel that China has effectively âweaponisedâ mineral supply chains Gracelin Baskaran said the key question was no longer whether China controls critical minerals but how quickly the US can build alternative supply chainsâThe question is what the United States does about itâ she said calling for coordinated industrial policy and stronger alliances to secure supplyGeologist Simon Jowitt said the US has âhuge unrealised mineral potentialâ but remains underexplored due to limited geoscientific data and slow permitting He stressed that exploration is the foundation of any supply chain and can deliver significant economic returnsJowitt also underscored the need for a full domestic ecosystem âThereâs no point in just having mineral deposits without having an entirety of a supply chainâ he said arguing that processing and refining must accompany mining to ensure securityNational security expert Abigail Hunter highlighted structural challenges noting that supply chains take years to build while disruptions can occur âovernightâ She said Chinaâs control over processing creates a âchoke pointâ that allows it to influence global markets rapidlyâCapacity must be built in advanceâ Hunter said warning that relying on imports during crises could leave US defence systems vulnerableAt the same time watchdog groups raised concerns about government investment strategies Faith Williams said federal equity stakes in mining firms could create conflicts of interest and reduce transparencyâCorruption or the appearance thereof is bad for businessâ she said cautioning that unclear rules could distort markets and increase costs for taxpayersDespite political divisions there was broad agreement that critical minerals underpin both economic growth and military capability Lawmakers cited their role in everything from semiconductors and smartphones to advanced weapons systemsThe hearing also highlighted the economic stakes Mining contributes billions to the US GDP and supports nearly two million jobs with wages significantly above the national averageExperts said solutions would require a combination of domestic production allied cooperation and demandside policies Baskaran urged creating a âmarket of 26 billion consumersâ among US allies to counterbalance Chinaâs dominanceThe issue has gained urgency amid rising geopolitical tensions and growing demand for minerals driven by clean energy defence modernisation and digital infrastructure placing supply chain resilience at the centre of US strategic planning IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chinas-grip-on-key-minerals-sparks-us-alarm-lawmakers-demand-swift-supply-chain-fixes-666652.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 09:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-cm-expresses-shock-over-andhra-bus-fire-tragedy-assures-help-to-victims-families-666672.html Hyderabad March 26 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has expressed deep shock over the bus accident in the Markapuram district of Andhra Pradesh which claimed the lives of at least 14 people The Chief Minister conveyed his profound grief over the loss of several lives and the severe injuries sustained by others in the mishap CM Revanth Reddy extended his condolences to the families of the deceased He also wished for the speedy recovery of those injured in the accident Noting that the bus was travelling from Nirmal in Telangana towards Nellore Chief Minister Revanth Reddy directed State Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao to gather details regarding the victims both the deceased and the injured involved in the accident The Chief Minister instructed the Chief Secretary to coordinate with officials from Andhra Pradesh to collect comprehensive details regarding the incident He also issued orders to ensure that the injured receive the best possible medical care Acting upon the Chief Ministers directives Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao held discussions with his counterpart in Andhra PradeshTelangana Pradesh Congress Committee TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud has also expressed deep shock over the tragic loss of several lives in a horrific bus accident that occurred early this morning at Rayavaram near Markapuram in Andhra PradeshHe expressed profound distress over the incident in which a Harikrishna Travels bus travelling from Nirmal to Vinjamur collided with another vehicle subsequently catching fire and resulting in the passengers inside being burnt aliveHe wished for the speedy recovery of those injured in the accident He extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved familiesAt least 14 people were burnt alive and 22 others injured when a private travel bus in which they were travelling caught fire after colliding with a tipper truck in Markapuram district on ThursdayThe accident occurred near Rayavaram around 630 am when the bus collided with a tipper truck near a stone quarry Both vehicles were completely gutted in the fireThere were about 35 passengers in the bus belonging to Harikrishna Travels at the time of the collision IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/telangana-cm-expresses-shock-over-andhra-bus-fire-tragedy-assures-help-to-victims-families-666672.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-polls-manalur-revives-legacy-politics-as-veterans-square-off-in-high-stakes-contest-666681.html Thrissur March 26 Manalur a constituency steeped in Keralaâs political history is once again at the centre of an intense electoral battle where legacy personality and party arithmetic converge The regionâs identity is closely tied to Joseph Mundassery the stateâs first Education Minister in the historic 1957 government led by EMS NamboodiripadThat legacy continues to shape the narrative of the current contestSeeking to draw from that ideological lineage is CPIM candidate C Raveendranath a former Education Minister known for his understated style and administrative clarityA retired Chemistry professor Raveendranath now 70 remains a respected figure despite his defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from ChalakudyParty insiders believe his personal credibility and softspoken demeanour could resonate with voters in a constituency that values accessibility over aggressionMoreover in the past two polls the CPIM candidate Murali Perunnally won from hereHowever the Chemistry professor faces a formidable challenge from Congress leader TN Prathapan a seasoned campaigner with deep organisational rootsPrathapanâs return to electoral politics comes with significant advantagesHistorically Manalur has been a Congress bastion having favoured the party in 11 out of 15 electionsThis legacy is closely associated with veteran leader V M Sudheeran whose enduring connect with the electorate continues to bolster the Congress campaignThe rapport between Sudheeran and Prathapan adds another layer of confidence for the United Democratic Front UDFThe Bharatiya Janata Party BJP meanwhile enters the fray without its prominent face AN Radhakrishnan who had secured around 22 per cent votes in the last two Assembly electionsIn his place the party has fielded KK Aneesh Kumar a local leader attempting to consolidate and expand the partyâs baseThe BJP is banking heavily on the ripple effect of actorturnedpolitician Suresh Gopiâs landmark victory in the Thrissur Lok Sabha constituencyWith Manalur falling within that parliamentary segment Gopiâs active campaigning is expected to energise the cadre and improve vote shareAs Manalur heads to the polls the contest reflects a broader clash between historical loyalty and emerging political currents between quiet credibility and organisational muscle making it one of the most closely watched seats in the district IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-polls-manalur-revives-legacy-politics-as-veterans-square-off-in-high-stakes-contest-666681.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 12:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/raj-cm-to-chair-all-party-meeting-on-lpg-situation-today-666689.html Jaipur March 26 An allparty meeting on the LPG situation will be held at the Chief Ministerâs Office CMO at 4 PM on Thursday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma reflecting the governmentâs seriousness in ensuring uninterrupted cooking gas supply across the state An allparty meeting will be held at the CMO under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister at 4 PM Rajasthan CM is serious about ensuring the smooth supply of LPG gas and discussions will be held regarding its supply said CMO officials on Thursday morningMeanwhile the Opposition on Wednesday had also urged the Rajasthan government to call the allparty meeting on the LPG crisis in the stateExpressing deep concern over the energy and fuel crisis in Rajasthan Leader of the Opposition Tikaram Jully said that the people of the state are desperate for gas today The lack of these basic amenities has made life difficult for the common manLoP Jully questioned whether the Chief Minister should not have called an allparty meeting at such a critical time so that they could jointly find a solution to the LPG crisisEarlier on Wednesday State Food and Civil Supplies Minister Sumit Godara had chaired a highlevel review meeting via video conferencing with departmental officials and representatives of oil and gas marketing companiesHe said the state government is working proactively to provide maximum relief to citizens amid the current global situationReassuring the public Godara had stated that there was no shortage of domestic cooking gas in RajasthanAdequate stock is available and LPG cylinders are being delivered within three to four days of bookingHe urged people not to pay heed to rumours clarifying that international developments have not impacted LPG supply in the state He added that a temporary surge in online bookings had briefly affected servers but the system has now stabilised and bookings are back to normalThe minister directed strict enforcement to curb malpractices in distribution and ordered a complete halt to LPG cylinder deliveries without OTP verification and proper diary entry noting that such irregularities lead to diversion and affect genuine consumersHe also instructed that delivery personnel must carry and display identity cards during distribution Emphasising longterm solutions Godara called for prioritising the expansion of PNG Piped Natural Gas connections in areas where pipeline infrastructure is already availableHe further said that state and districtlevel monitoring committees are actively working to check black marketing diversion and illegal storage of LPG cylinders Most gas agencies have already been inspected and he directed that inspections of the remaining agencies be completed within 24 hoursRepresentatives from various political parties will attend the allparty meeting being chaired by CM Sharma today Those expected to be present include Joga Ram Patel Sumit Godara Jogeshwar Garg Shrichand Kriplani Tikaram Jully Ramkesh Meena Rajendra Pareek Jiva Ram Chaudhary Ashok Kothari Manoj Nyangli Subhash Garg and Thawar Chand bringing together key leaders to discuss important state matters IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/raj-cm-to-chair-all-party-meeting-on-lpg-situation-today-666689.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-polls-tvk-to-contest-all-234-seats-vijay-set-to-launch-statewide-campaign-666690.html Chennai March 26 IANS With less than a month remaining for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections scheduled for April 23 political activity across the state has intensified with parties accelerating campaign strategies and candidate outreach programmes Actorturnedpolitician Vijay has announced that his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam TVK will contest all 234 Assembly constituencies independently signalling an aggressive electoral debutnbspThe move positions the party as a significant new entrant in a political landscape long dominated by established Dravidian majorsAs part of its campaign rollout the party is set to introduce its candidates at a highprofile public meeting in Mamallapuram on March 27Party sources said Vijay will personally present the candidates on stage and outline the partys vision and electoral roadmap marking a crucial moment in TVKs preparationsVijay is expected to contest from the Perambur constituency in Chennai according to party insiders though an official confirmation is awaitedHis potential candidature has generated considerable interest particularly among firsttime voters and youth who form a key segment of his support baseThe party is preparing to launch its campaign trail in full swing on March 28 Vijay is scheduled to address a series of public meetings across key constituencies in Chennai including Perambur Kolathur Villivakkam Anna Nagar and VirugambakkamPermissions have reportedly been granted for gatherings of up to 3000 people at each venue However sources indicate that requests to conduct campaign events in 12 additional constituencies were denied by the Election Commission due to regulatory constraintsSignificantly these restrictions come in the backdrop of the tragic stampede in Karur on September 27 2025 during a public programme of Vijay which resulted in the death of 41 persons Following the incident the Tamil Nadu Police imposed stringent guidelines on crowd management and public meetings linked to the actorpolitician to prevent similar occurrencesAs polling day approaches the entry of Vijay and his party is expected to add a new dimension to the electoral contest even as established alliances continue to consolidate their positions across the stateIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-polls-tvk-to-contest-all-234-seats-vijay-set-to-launch-statewide-campaign-666690.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/trinamool-is-anti-hindu-uses-muslims-for-votes-bengal-bjp-leader-666691.html Asansol West Bengal March 26 Bharatiya Janata Party BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul on Thursday lashed out at the Trinamool Congress accusing it of being antiHindu and using the Muslim community for votes Her reaction follows a midnight protest in the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency led by West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari over alleged police obstruction to Ram Navami preparationsNotably Adhikari is the BJPs candidate from the constituency and is pitted against West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee in the constituencyPaul told IANS The Trinamool Congress is antiHindu and for the past 15 years atrocities against Hindus have been carried out to send a message to a particular community Everybody knows which community I am speaking aboutThey Trinamool are being biased towards the Muslim community for their vote bank But now even the Muslims have realised that Mamata Banerjee has used them for votes and has done nothing for their community she saidPaul also accused the Trinamool Congress of politicising the Ram Navami festivalHindus have to take permission for celebrating the Durga Puja festival and for the Ram Navami rally in West Bengal Mamata Banerjee intentionally does things to hurt Hindu sentiments to please the Muslim community It is very dirty politics Trinamool has been engaging in this appeasement politics for the last 15 years she saidIf they Trinamool had worked for the people without looking at their religion today the Trinamool Congress would have been in a better state she addedThe BJP MLA further said Today the people of Bengal are demanding change because they Trinamool have only indulged in politics of religion That is why yesterday the stage for Ram Navami celebrations was not allowed to be madePaul also came down heavily on the West Bengal Police She said The police particularly the senior police officials here dont have a spinal cord They dont have their own say and only listen to the Chief Minister The junior officers though are better they want changeBecause of all this the people of Bengal irrespective of their religion are seeking change this time she reiteratedMeanwhile Bengal LoP Suvendu Adhikari on Thursday took part in a Ram Navami procession in Bhabanipur IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/trinamool-is-anti-hindu-uses-muslims-for-votes-bengal-bjp-leader-666691.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/only-13-pc-of-promises-delivered-pmks-anbumani-ramadoss-says-dmk-thrives-on-falsehoods-666695.html Chennai March 26 PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the ruling DMK accusing it of misleading the public over the implementation of its 2021 Assembly election promises In a strongly worded statement Ramadoss alleged that the DMK which he claimed âthrives on falsehoodsâ is once again attempting to deceive voters by asserting that it has fulfilled the majority of its electoral commitments He said such claims were âfar removed from realityâ and would not withstand public scrutinyAiming at Chief Minister MK Stalin and his Cabinet colleagues the PMK leader said they have repeatedly cited varying figures 98 per cent 99 per cent 90 per cent and 85 per cent regarding the fulfilment of poll promises He described these claims as inconsistent and misleading alleging that they form part of a deliberate attempt to build a false narrative ahead of the upcoming Assembly electionsTo counter what he termed as âpropagandaâ Ramadoss said he had prepared a detailed report titled âWhere is the Dawnâ which was released in Chennai on August 26 2025According to him the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the DMKâs 2021 manifesto categorising promises as fulfilled partially fulfilled and unfulfilledHe claimed that of the 505 promises made by the DMK during the last Assembly elections only 66 had been fully implemented amounting to just 13 per centThe report he added identifies as many as 373 promises which remain unfulfilled raising serious concerns about the governmentâs performanceRamadoss further alleged that even the DMK leadership had earlier moderated its claims with the Chief Minister at one point stating that around 75 per cent to 80 per cent of promises had been met However he accused the party of now reverting to claims of neartotal fulfilment which he described as a âpolitical dramaâ unlikely to convince the electorateIn a scathing remark the PMK leader said that if any party was known for making the âmost deceptive claimsâ regarding election promises it was the DMKWith hundreds of commitments still pending he argued the ruling party has no moral ground to issue a fresh manifesto Instead he said it should present a list of unfulfilled promises as its agenda IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/only-13-pc-of-promises-delivered-pmks-anbumani-ramadoss-says-dmk-thrives-on-falsehoods-666695.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/west-asia-crisis-oppn-voices-support-to-govt-on-national-interest-despite-political-differences-666699.html New Delhi March 26 In the aftermath of the allparty meeting on West Asia Biju Janata Dal BJD MP Sasmit Patra and BJP spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo have highlighted their perspectives on Indiaâs diplomatic stance and regional security while underscoring Indiaâs growing role in international affairs Speaking to IANS Patra recalled historical precedents in regional diplomacy stating âIn 1981 when relations between Iran and the United States deteriorated Pakistan had created a small channel to communicate with Iran If Iran wanted to convey something or America wanted to communicate through another country this channel was used This existed in 1971 in 1981 and even todayâHe added âPakistan cannot compete with India on any international platform whether in the economy or any other field today tomorrow or in the coming daysâEmphasising Indiaâs role in securing maritime routes Patra noted âIndian ships are getting safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and India has also provided protection to some Iranian naval fleets The ships heading toward Sri Lanka were affected but the ones in India were safe My party is always ready even though we have political disagreements with the government but when it comes to India we all stand unitedâPatra also outlined the agenda of the allparty meeting highlighting that two major issues were discussed Diplomacy and Indiaâs position on the West Asia conflict and energy security particularly the availability of oil and natural gas in the countryâThe Opposition parties raised several questions on both topics Indiaâs role in the West Asia conflict and the domestic availability of petroleum oil and natural gasâ he saidReacting to the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars statement in the allparty meeting SP MP Virendra Singh said The truth is that we are not a broker country like PakistanMeanwhile BJP spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo took a sharper stance on Pakistanâs international actions âAt the global level if any country is playing the biggest role in diplomatic meddling it is Islamabad Pakistan was even willing to provide bases to the US to attack Muslims in Iran So itâs all just a drama First protect your own borders before speaking about other issuesâ he saidThe discussions at the allparty meeting came at a time when India is actively navigating the complexities of West Asian geopolitics while ensuring energy security amid global uncertaintiesAfter the meeting Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju noted that discussions were extensive covering both government responses and Opposition suggestionsI have heard in detail all the suggestions made by the Opposition parties and from the government side All the queries and all the confusion whatever was there all were clearly explained by the government The Opposition parties at the end of the meeting stated which is very important that they thank the government for calling this allparty meeting and they also asserted that in such a difficult challenging situation we will all have to stand together he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/west-asia-crisis-oppn-voices-support-to-govt-on-national-interest-despite-political-differences-666699.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengaluru-among-top-10-global-tech-hubs-i-dont-want-to-compare-it-with-hyderabad-ktaka-deputy-cm-666701.html Bengaluru March 26 Responding to comparisons between Bengaluru and Hyderabad Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar stated that he does not wish to compare Bengaluru which stands in sixth position as a global tech hub with Hyderabad which is placed 26th Speaking in the Legislative Assembly on Thursday Dy CM Shivakumar who also handles the Bengaluru Development portfolio said According to a recent report Bengaluru is among the top 10 global tech hubs San Francisco ranks first followed by London in second place Bengaluru stands in sixth position just behind Beijing which is ranked fifth while Hyderabad is placed 26th I do not want to compete with Hyderabadâ he addedFormer Deputy Chief Minister CN Ashwath Narayan intervened stating that they too do not want Bengaluru to be compared with HyderabadâIn our country there is no city that can be compared to Bengaluru Our request is that in certain aspects such as cost of living Hyderabad may be around 50 per cent cheaper and facilities may be better there However the cosmopolitan nature and talent pool available in Bengaluru cannot be found anywhere else It must be preserved and its growth ensuredâ he saidâIn reality the role of the government in all this is minimal All governments have neglected Bengaluru Normally discussions about Bengaluru do not take placeâ Ashwath Narayan addedAt this point Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said that Bengaluru attained a special status due to the establishment of public sector industries as well as educational and academic institutions by successive governments This later paved the way for the IT revolution hence the government had played a significant role in its successLeader of the Opposition R Ashoka said that Hyderabad is being used as a point of reference because the media often compares the two citiesâIf you Shivakumar choose not to speak about Hyderabad it may be perceived as being in favour of it Bengaluru was not built by us it grew naturally The interest of Karnataka is paramount otherwise the matter may take a political turn especially since the Congress is in power there under Chief Minister Revanth Reddyâ he saidShivakumar said âBengaluru has given me everything and I want to contribute I cannot do it alone everyone must cooperate There are 250 engineering colleges and 70 medical colleges in Bengaluru Nowhere else in the country can you see this Every year 13940 doctors graduate from medical colleges in Karnatakaâwhere are they going Much of this talent is moving abroadâHe added that the Prime Minister of the Netherlands had shared with him that the country saved 40 per cent of costs by opting for services from Bengaluru compared to other global citiesShivakumar further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently visited Bengaluru and referred to it as a global city He recalled that former Prime Minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee had once observed that there was a time when foreign leaders would first visit Delhi and then travel to other states âNow world leaders are coming to Bengaluru first and then going to Delhiâ he said referring to visits by prime ministers from China Japan the United Kingdom Poland and other countries within a short spanâAll sections of society including students and technocrats have contributed to this growth Today Bengaluru has 26 lakh IT professionals Out of the Fortune 500 companies around 400 have a presence in Bengaluru The American Ambassador has requested that Bengaluru develop 10 worldclass schools In Californiaâs Silicon Valley there are about 135 million engineers whereas Bengaluru has around 26 lakh engineers This is the strength of Bengaluruâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengaluru-among-top-10-global-tech-hubs-i-dont-want-to-compare-it-with-hyderabad-ktaka-deputy-cm-666701.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-bjp-defends-move-to-field-rg-kar-victims-mother-from-panihati-666706.html New Delhi March 26 The Bharatiya Janata Party BJP leaders on Thursday defended the partys decision to field the mother of the junior doctor of West Bengals RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata who was raped and murdered within the hospital premises in August 2024 from the Panihati Assembly constituency in North 24 Parganas district The victims mother Ratna Debnath featured in the partys third list of 19 candidates announced on Wednesday for the forthcoming twophase Assembly elections in the state next monthBJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh told IANS The BJP has ensured that the victimâs voice is heard in Bengalâs largest panchayat enabling her to receive justice BJP has shown the victims mother the way to the Bengal AssemblyChugh accused the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjeeled Trinamool Congress government of sheltering the culprits in the caseHe said The cruel Trinamool government of Mamata Banerjee in Bengal had committed injustice against the victim of the RG Kar Medical College case Mamata Banerjeeâs government made every possible effort to protect the culprits and employed every tactic to suppress the caseBihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi also praised the decisionHe said She should definitely be given the ticket This is a matter of womens respect and empowerment She the victim had to go through such brutal things if the BJP had given her the victims mother a ticket to contest the Assembly polls this would be a mark of respect to womens rights She will win in Bengal and raise her voice in the Assembly The BJP has done a great jobNotably Ratna Debnath is also a voter from the Panihati constituencyIt may be recalled that on March 23 Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari had informed media persons that the parents of the RG Kar victim had taken primary membership of the BJPHowever Adhikari had then said that whether any of them would be fielded as a candidate from Panihati would be decided by the partyâs central leadership On Wednesday the party announced the name of the victimâs mother as its candidate from the constituency IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-bjp-defends-move-to-field-rg-kar-victims-mother-from-panihati-666706.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/healthcare-education-our-top-priorities-says-telangana-cm-666711.html Hyderabad March 26 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy said on Thursday that healthcare and education are the top priorities of his government In his reply to the debate on demands for grants in the Assembly the Chief Minister gave the assurance that the government will not cut a single rupee from the funds allocated for education and healthcare If necessary the government will provide more funds he assertedHe claimed that the previous BRS government allowed dues under Rajiv Aarogyasri to accumulate but his government while shouldering that burden increased the coverage limit under the scheme from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakhHe revealed that when the present government assumed office on December 7 2023 it inherited a burden of Rs 627 crore in pending dues under ArogyasriSince December 8 2023 the government has paid a total of Rs 2408 crore towards the Aarogyasri scheme The government paid Rs 927 crore to government hospitals and Rs 1480 crore to private hospitalsPayments are being processed on a regular and timely basis only the dues accumulated by the previous government remain pending As of today the outstanding dues amount to Rs 727 crore he saidCM Revanth Reddy said that false propaganda is being spread claiming that private hospitals are shutting down due to pending dues under the Aarogyasri scheme He clarified that the outstanding Aarogyasri dues to private hospitals are minimalHe also claimed that in the past numerous irregularities occurred regarding the issuance of checks from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund Certain individuals misused this relief fund and cases were subsequently filed against themSince our government assumed office we have implemented a system allowing applications for the CM Relief Fund to be submitted online We have taken necessary measures As a result the scope for irregularities has been completely eliminated he saidThe Chief Minister stated that the government has so far disbursed Rs 2046 crore under the Chief Ministers Relief FundHe claimed that the government has allocated Rs 4500 crore specifically for the medical treatment of the poorThere are 35 medical colleges in the state however patients are currently not visiting these teaching hospitals Furthermore there is a shortage of qualified doctors in these hospitals where the poor typically seek medical careWe are currently considering a proposal to refer Aarogyasri beneficiaries to these teaching hospitals In addition to the Aarogyasri funds we intend to allocate resources from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund to these hospitals the CM said exuding confidence that this initiative will lead to significant improvements in the administration and management of these hospitalsThe government is also planning to entrust the administrative oversight of these hospitals to a GroupI level officerHe also announced that based on the census data collected as part of the caste enumeration exercise the government is preparing to extend the Indiramma Jeevitha Bima Life Insurance scheme to 115 crore families âThrough this initiative we aim to provide a sense of security and assurance to every familyâ he saidStating that thousands of doctors from Telangana are currently working abroad he said a website will be developed to enable them to provide their services in the hospitals in Telangana whenever they visit their stateThe government is transforming the TIMS hospitals in Alwal LB Nagar and Sanath Nagar into specialised hospitals A new building is being constructed for Osmania Hospital in Goshamahal spanning 30 acres and costing Rs 3000 croreThe Chief Minister said the government would be bringing reforms to improve the quality of education He remarked that while education is accessible quality education remains elusive IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/healthcare-education-our-top-priorities-says-telangana-cm-666711.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/neither-america-will-win-nor-iran-will-lose-baba-ramdev-on-west-asia-conflict-666719.html Haridwar Uttarakhand March 26 Yoga guru and Patanjali cofounder Baba Ramdev on Thursday said Neither America will win nor Iran will lose as he appealed for world peace amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia I had earlier said that neither America will win the war nor Iran will lose By launching its ballistic missiles at a distance ranging from 10001200 km to 40005000 km and by dropping bombs Iran has shown that nobody can frighten anyone using weapons Ramdev told reporters at a Ram Navami event at Patanjali Yogpeeth hereI had earlier said that neither America will win the war nor Iran will lose By launching its ballistic missiles at a distance ranging from 10001200 km to 40005000 km and by dropping bombs Iran has shown that nobody can frighten anyone using weaponsDemocracy doesnt mean to scare anyone Today America takes pride in calling itself the worlds largest democracy so it should also take care of the sovereignty of other nations he saidEmphasising Indias role in mediating the conflict he said India should keep on giving the message of bringing the world together based on the principle of Vasudev Kutumbakam world is one family Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doing whatever needs to be done politically and diplomaticallyEven now if the war between Israel America and Iran can be stopped with anyones mediation this petrol gas crisis in the entire world along with it the current economic crisis in the world it is India The solution for all these economic and political crises can come through dialogue and India can play a huge role in this I am confident about it Baba Ramdev saidHe asserted that India can save the world from this crisis emanating from the warHe further urged everyone to come together on issues of national interest especially when it is about the countrys foreign policyMeanwhile on Ram Navami Ramdev said Greetings to all citizens on Ram Navami With the exposure to digital media the character of daughters is being undermined I urge everyone to use these festivals as an opportunity to instil in children a strong understanding of our great cultural heritage IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/neither-america-will-win-nor-iran-will-lose-baba-ramdev-on-west-asia-conflict-666719.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 17:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/lop-satheesan-hits-back-at-cm-vijayan-alleges-cpi-666730.html Thiruvananthapuram March 26 The political slugfest between the ruling CPIM and the Congressled Opposition intensified on Thursday with Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan launching a sharp counterattack against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan over allegations of a BJPCPIM nexus An hour after CM Vijayanâs Facebook post surfaced accusing the Congress of maintaining tacit links with the RSS Satheesan rejected the claims and turned the charge back on the Chief Minister alleging a history of CPIM engagement with the RSS and BJPSatheesan said Vijayanâs repeated assertion that only the CPIM has resisted the RSS would be rejected by politicallyaware KeralitesHe alleged that it was Vijayan who had benefited from RSS support in the past including during the 1977 Assembly elections and not the CongressCiting historical instances Satheesan referred to the Uduma constituency alleging a CPIMRSS understanding involving RSS leader KG MararHe also pointed to visuals of CPIM stalwart EMS Namboodiripad with RSS leaders and questioned whether Vijayan would deny the presence of senior BJP leader LK Advani at a CPIM campaign event in PalakkadThe Opposition leader further cited national level political alignments in 1989 when CPIM leaders EMS Namboodiripad and Jyoti Basu supported VP Singh alongside BJP leaders including Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Advani to argue that the Leftâs current claims lack consistencyHe also flagged a statement by Balashankar former editor of the RSS mouthpiece Organizer alleging a CPIMBJP understanding during the last Assembly elections and demanded a clear response from the Chief MinisterEscalating the attack Satheesan accused Vijayan of holding meetings with RSS leaders in Thiruvananthapuram and maintaining backchannel contactsHe further alleged that the Kerala government diluted key investigations including the Kodakara hawala case and attempted to shield individuals close to CM VijayanSatheesan concluded that the Congress does not require lessons from Vijayan in opposing the Sangh Parivar asserting that more evidence exists and challenging the Chief Minister to respond as the political confrontation sharpens ahead of the elections IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/lop-satheesan-hits-back-at-cm-vijayan-alleges-cpi-666730.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/polls-not-for-govt-formation-but-peoples-protest-against-bjp-abhishek-banerjee-666735.html Kolkata March 26 Trinamool Congress all India general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Thursday held a public rally in Dhupguri Jalpaiguri district to campaign in support of its candidate Nirmal Chandra Roy He said that this election is not merely a battle to form a government but rather to express the peopleâs grievances register their protest and deliver a fitting reply to the antipeople policies of the BJPâFrom the rally stage Banerjee launched an attack against the BJPled government at the Centre criticising several of its decisions âHe alleged that everything from demonetisation to the restrictions imposed during the pandemic has subjected the common people to immense suffering âHe argued that the ruling party at the Centre has repeatedly forced people to stand in queues âTherefore the time has now come to deliver a fitting reply to this experience on election day itselfââDemonetisation the COVID lockdown the Special Intensive Revision SIR exercise and now the cooking gas price hikes the BJP government has made people stand in queues on a whimâ Banerjee said ââOn the day of the election here on April 23 stand in a queue one last time to deliver a reply to the very party that has subjected you to such harassmentââThe Trinamool leader further said that obstacles have been deliberately created regarding the stateâs rural and urban development projects âHe alleged that Central allocations for critical sectors such as housing construction road development drinking water service and employment generation have been withheld âHe asserted that under these circumstances if the BJP comes seeking votes they should be confronted directly with the question âHow dare they come before the publicâ after causing such harassmentâHe also highlighted various welfare schemes implemented by the Mamata Banerjee government âSpecifically regarding financial assistance for youth he said that the state government provides Rs 1500 per month under the Yuba Sathi scheme amounting to Rs 18000 annually and Rs 90000 over a fiveyear term âHe challenged the PM Modi government to provide even Rs 9 adding that in the last 12 years not even 9 paise has reached anyoneâs pocketâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/polls-not-for-govt-formation-but-peoples-protest-against-bjp-abhishek-banerjee-666735.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 20:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/437-custodial-deaths-in-jharkhand-since-2018-hc-flags-gaps-in-mandatory-probes-666738.html Ranchi March 26 The Jharkhand High Court on Thursday expressed serious concern over 437 deaths reported in judicial and police custody across the state since 2018 flagging major gaps in mandatory judicial probes The figure was disclosed in an affidavit filed by the Principal Secretary Department of Home Prisons and Disaster Management Vandana Dandel during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation PIL in the High Court on custodial deathsA division bench of Chief Justice MS Sonak and Justice Rajesh Shankar while taking the affidavit on record noted that a large number of cases lacked clarity on compliance with statutory requirementsAccording to the affidavit judicial inquiries could be conducted in only 202 of the deaths that occurred in prisons In the case of police custody deaths 39 incidents were reported of which inquiries are still pending in 11 casesThe court underlined that a magisterial inquiry is mandatory in every instance of death disappearance or alleged sexual assault in police or judicial custody The absence of such inquiries in several cases it observed raises serious concerns about accountability and adherence to due processThe bench sought specific suggestions from the petitioner on further reliefs and directions required in the matter while reiterating that ensuring compliance with legal provisions rests squarely with the State governmentThe issue had also come up during an earlier hearing in February when the court had sought comprehensive data on custodial deaths and the status of inquiries At that time the state had reported the same figure of 437 deaths between 2018 and 2025 but did not clearly indicate whether mandatory probes had been conducted in most casesThe High Court had then emphasised that independent judicial inquiries are essential to ensure transparency and accountability and had directed the State to clarify whether magisterial probes were carried out in each case and if the guidelines laid down by the National Human Rights Commission NHRC were followedThe matter is now slated for further hearing on April 30 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/437-custodial-deaths-in-jharkhand-since-2018-hc-flags-gaps-in-mandatory-probes-666738.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bastar-close-to-lwe-free-status-as-cadre-strength-drops-sharply-666741.html Raipur March 26 The number of armed Maoist cadres in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh has declined sharply by over 5500 in recent years marking a major success in the fight against LeftWing Extremism Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Vijay Sharma said this significant reduction has brought the region closer to its target of becoming completely free from Maoist influence by March 31 this year Addressing the media Vijay Sharma said that around 3000 Maoists have surrendered in the recent period accounting for a substantial drop in the number of armed cadresIn addition security forces have arrested nearly 2000 or slightly more Maoist operatives over the last two years Together the surrenders and arrests have resulted in a reduction of about 5000 in the strength of armed Maoist cadresThe Home Minister added that security forces have neutralised 525 Maoists in various operations Thus the total number of armed cadres has declined by 5525Sharma expressed confidence that with the continued efforts of both Central and state security forces the entire Bastar region would soon be free from the grip of Maoist violence He praised the courage and determination shown by personnel of the Central and state armed forces in achieving this progressChief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai also highlighted the development through a series of posts on social media platform X He said that decisive policies of good governance have brought a new wave of change in BastarMore than 2800 individuals have given up the path of violence and returned to the mainstream under the Naxal Surrender and Rehabilitation Policy 2025 According to the Chief Minister this reflects that the power of development and trust is stronger than any ideological deviationChief Minister Sai said that the influence of Maoism is gradually receding from Bastar with the spread of good governance The region once known for fear violence and alienation is now moving forward with confidence towards democracy development and trustHe emphasised that the strong resolve of the government combined with active public participation has created a firm foundation for lasting peace The Chief Minister described the transformation as a powerful example of how trust can bring enduring changeBastar long considered the epicentre of Naxal activities is now showing signs of a more peaceful future Security officials believe that sustained operations and rehabilitation efforts will help eliminate the Naxal problem from the region in the coming months IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bastar-close-to-lwe-free-status-as-cadre-strength-drops-sharply-666741.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/muzaffarpur-killing-tejashwi-criticises-nitish-kumar-for-selecting-sho-for-the-award-666742.html Patna March 26 A major political storm has erupted in Muzaffarpur after serious allegations were made by Tejashwi Yadav regarding the killing of a local resident during a police operationâ While uploading a post on social media X on Thursday Tejashwi Yadav claimed that in the Gaighat police station area a SubInspectorâallegedly under the influence of alcoholâentered the house of farmer Jagatveer Rai and shot him deadâTerming the incident as the height of anarchy he accused the state government led by Nitish Kumar of failing to take action against the accused officerâTejashwi alleged that the Bihar Police have been unableâor unwillingâto arrest the SubInspector claiming that he is reportedly hiding under the protection of an influential liquor mafia figure in MuzaffarpurâHe further alleged that political patronage is preventing any action questioning why police have not conducted raids to apprehend the accusedâAdding to the controversy Tejashwi pointed to an official communication from the Tirhut Range DIGâs office where the name of SubInspector Raja Singh SHO Gaighat allegedly appears in a list of officers selected for the âVeer Pashupatinath Medalâ for exemplary serviceâHe highlighted the contradictionâon one hand the officer faces serious allegations while on the other preparations are reportedly underway to honour him at an event scheduled for April 9 2026âThe RJD leader launched a scathing critique of the police administration alleging systemic corruption and breakdown of accountabilityâHe warned that if swift action is not taken and justice is not delivered public anger could spill onto the streets holding the government and administration responsible for any escalationâThe Rashtriya Janata Dal has made it clear that it will fight at every level to secure justice for the late Jagatveer Rai intensifying the political confrontation in MuzaffarpurâSince the incident the district has been witnessing strong public outrage and growing agitationâWhile the police department is reportedly moving ahead with preparations for a medal distribution ceremony the opposition has sharply criticized the move calling it insensitive and inappropriate under the circumstancesâOpposition leaders including Tejashwi Yadav have framed the issue as a larger question of accountability and justice arguing that honouring an officer facing serious allegations sends the wrong messageâWith tensions rising on the ground all eyes are now on the state government led by Nitish Kumarâwhether it will review the list of awardees or proceed as planned potentially fuelling further public angerâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/muzaffarpur-killing-tejashwi-criticises-nitish-kumar-for-selecting-sho-for-the-award-666742.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-govt-outlines-plans-to-decongest-bengaluru-666745.html Bengaluru March 26 Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar who is also Bengaluru Development Minister on Thursday outlined an ambitious roadmap to decongest Bengaluru including the development of a township at Bidadi elevated corridors tunnel roads and expansion of Metro services while responding to a discussion on Greater Bengaluru in the Legislative Assemblyâ Responding to BJP MLA S Suresh Kumarâs suggestion to develop alternative cities outside Bengaluru Shivakumar said the government has revived plans to build a township at Bidadi to ease pressure on the cityâHe noted that similar proposals at Nandagudi Solur and Bidadi were dropped earlier but the government has now decided to proceed âHe said that since Bidadi has adequate water facilities the township will be developed there adding that the proposal to build an AI City on 8000 acres will be discussed in the Cabinet âHe also reiterated that a second airport for Bengaluru must come up in the southern regionâAddressing waste management issues Shivakumar alleged that the previous government failed to effectively tackle the âgarbage mafiaâ âHe said the current government has streamlined waste management contracts from 89 packages to 33 and brought them to the final stage âWhile four sites were initially identified for waste disposal the plan has now been finalised for two locations due to land constraints including NICE land and an existing site at DoddaballapuraâOn infrastructure Shivakumar announced that a 109 km elevated corridor project will be launched soon He also revealed plans to construct 300 km of buffer roads along stormwater drains with partial land support from the Defence Ministry âA doubledecker road model already implemented in Jayanagar will be expanded to 40 km with costs to be shared between Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited and the Bengaluru civic bodyâHighlighting the scale of planned investments he said projects worth Rs 15 lakh crore are being prepared to transform Bengaluru into a worldclass city The Metro network is set to expand to 350 km in the coming yearsâShivakumar acknowledged that traffic congestion remains a major challenge but argued that Bengaluru is often singled out despite worse conditions in cities like Mumbai Hyderabad and Delhi âHe pointed out that roads account for only 8 per cent of the cityâs land making expansion difficult especially after the 2013 land acquisition law which mandated higher compensationâTo address this the government is pushing the Bengaluru Business Corridor project for which 80 per cent of land acquisition for the first phase has been approved Tenders will be invited soon and the project is expected to significantly reduce congestion âHe also thanked HUDCO for offering Rs 26000 crore in fundingâAdditionally Shivakumar emphasised the need for tunnel roads stating that they are the only viable solution within the city âHe said construction could cost around Rs 700800 crore per km significantly lower than in other states and would play a key role in easing traffic in the long termâHe said that earlier when he was a Minister Bengaluruâs population was 70 lakh and today it has grown to 104 crore The city now has 130 crore vehicles He agreed that traffic congestion is a serious issueâHe added that in most major cities in the country roads account for about 16 per cent of the total area and are relatively wider âHowever since Bengaluru is not a planned city roads constitute only 8 per cent of its area Within this limited 8 per cent as many as 130 crore vehicles have to ply leading to severe congestionâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-govt-outlines-plans-to-decongest-bengaluru-666745.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/no-lpg-shortage-in-rajasthan-stocks-adequate-cm-sharma-after-all-party-meet-666746.html Jaipur March 26 Addressing an allparty meeting to discuss LPG supply in Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan lal Sharma reviewed the prevailing situation in the state He assured that Rajasthan currently has adequate stock of essential commodities and LPG and that the situation is under constant monitoringThe Chief Minister informed that District Collectors have already been directed to closely oversee supply and distribution to prevent any disruption CM Sharma also appealed to the public not to panic emphasising that there is no shortage and only a need for vigilanceCalling it a collective responsibility the Rajasthan Chief Minister said that awareness campaigns will be intensified and strict action will be taken against hoarding and black marketing He also urged citizens to cooperate with the administration during this period and thanked all political parties for extending their support Leader of the Opposition Tikaram Jully expressed solidarity with the government stating that all parties stand united in the larger public interest However he also urged the administration to explore and strengthen alternative resources to avoid any future crisis MLAs Ramkesh Meena Rajendra Pareek Shrichand Kriplani Subhash Garg Manoj Nyangali and Ashok Kothari also put forward suggestions during the meetingMeanwhile Joga Ram Patel and Jogeshwar Garg joined the discussions via video conferencing reflecting a united political approach to ensure stability and public confidenceReferring to concerns around LPG supply the states Food and Civil Supplies Minister Sumit Godara had clarified a day earlier that there is no disruption in LPG availability across Rajasthan He stated that oil companies have sufficient reserves and supply chains remain intact despite global geopolitical tensions The minister warned that strict action would be taken against anyone spreading rumours or indulging in black marketing of LPG cylinders and assured that regular monitoring is being carried out at all distribution points IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/no-lpg-shortage-in-rajasthan-stocks-adequate-cm-sharma-after-all-party-meet-666746.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chhattisgarh-govt-suspends-senior-ips-officer-ratanlal-dangi-666748.html Raipur March 26 The Home Department of the Chhattisgarh government has suspended senior Indian Police Service IPS officer Ratanlal Dangi who was serving as Inspector General of Police The suspension order was issued amid serious allegations against him triggering a major controversy in the state police department However the order has not mentioned about any complaint nor anything about allegations he official suspension order issued on Thursday states that the officer has exhibited immoral conduct which is unbecoming of his high position and rank Also the order said he has misused his position To ensure a fair and impartial investigation the government has placed Ratanlal Dangi under suspension with immediate effect During the suspension period he has been attached to a designated headquarters and will receive subsistence allowance as per rules He has also been barred from leaving the headquarters without prior permission from the competent authority Further departmental action will be taken after the completion of the ongoing inquiry Sources indicate that the case originated from a written complaint filed in November by a woman who is reportedly the wife of a SubInspector serving in the Chhattisgarh Police The complaint contained serious allegations against Dangi which later gained significant attention and went viral on social media Following the complaint the department initiated an inquiry into the matter Ratanlal Dangi has already strongly denied all the allegations terming them as baseless and false However the Home Department took the complaint seriously and proceeded Ratanlal Dangi born on August 1 1973 in village Malas of Nagaur district in Rajasthan comes from a humble background He has had a long and challenging journey in his career within the Indian Police Service The suspension of a senior IPS officer of the rank of Inspector General has created ripples in the state police administration The outcome of the ongoing inquiry is being closely watched by both police circles and the general public in Chhattisgarh IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chhattisgarh-govt-suspends-senior-ips-officer-ratanlal-dangi-666748.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/water-resources-secretary-reviews-sustainability-with-state-officials-666753.html New Delhi March 26 Strategies for sustainable development of water resources took centrestage as VL Kantha Rao Secretary Department of Water Resources chaired a Regional State Water Secretaries Conference in Telangana an official said on Thursday At the meeting held at Dr MCR HRD Institute of Telangana Rao who heads Department of Water Resources River Development amp Ganga Rejuvenation DoWR RD amp GR Ministry of Jal Shakti reaffirmed the departments commitment to providing comprehensive support for the planning development and management of water resources projectsschemes across the country said a statementThe meeting was attended by senior officers from the Water Resources Departments of Odisha Andhra Pradesh Telangana Karnataka Tamil Nadu Kerala Puducherry Lakshadweep and Andaman amp Nicobar Islands together at a single platform to discuss wide array of matters pertaining to the water sectorOfficials of DoWR RDampGR New Delhi and 15 heads of major organisations of the department also participated in the daylong conferenceKey objectives of the conference encompassed review of the implementation of ongoing schemes of the department in the participating statesUTs works done by the organisations of the Department in these states understanding concerns of the statesUTs with respect to ongoing schemesprojects and interstate matters and detailed deliberations on these aspects to further strengthen thrust areas of Centrestate coordination and partnerships said the statementThe Secretary reiterated the significance of the meeting in formulating and executing integrated strategies for sustainable and effective development of water resources in the regionHe reaffirmed the departments commitment to providing comprehensive support for the planning development and management of water resources projectsschemes across the countryDuring the conference state officials illustrated the scheme implementation status expectations from the Government of India and related bottlenecks in respective statesUTs in the field of water resourcesThe Secretary DoWR RD and GR underpinned the need for timely completion of ongoing projects and to reduce the gaps in Centrestate coordination to ensure timebound progress of priority worksHe called upon the StatesUTs to participate in revision and reformation of schemes of DoWR RD amp GR for next FC cycleApart from the regular ongoing schemes discussions also took place on Flood forecasting activities and adoption of advisories issued by the DoWR RD amp GR by the StatesUTs on Sediment Management Salinity Ingress in Coastal areas implementation of the provisions of Dam Safety Act Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari among others said the statementParticipating statesUTs were requested to streamline implementation of these critical advisories on priority basis IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/water-resources-secretary-reviews-sustainability-with-state-officials-666753.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-directs-cbi-mp-govt-to-file-details-on-probe-charge-sheets-in-vyapam-scam-666754.html BhopalNew Delhi March 26 In a sharp rebuke the Supreme Court on Thursday criticised the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI and the Madhya Pradesh government in a case linked to the Vyapam scam The apex court has directed both the CBI and the state government to submit complete details of the investigation carried out so far and provide information about all charge sheets filed in the matterThe court has asked for an affidavit explaining how and to what extent the 320page complaint filed by the petitioner Paras Saklecha was included in the probe and subsequent charge sheetsThe Supreme Court expressed strong displeasure over the failure of the CBI and the state government to file a satisfactory reply despite earlier noticesA bench comprising Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra and Justice NV Anjaria has now directed both parties to file detailed affidavits on the progress of the investigationThe next hearing in the case has been scheduled for April 16Paras Saklecha had approached the apex court challenging the decision of the Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High CourtHe said that important facts and documents related to the Vyapam scam were ignored during the investigationThe Madhya Pradesh High Court had earlier dismissed his petition saying that he was not a directly affected partyIn 2014 Saklecha had filed a detailed complaint along with supporting documents highlighting irregularities in the PreMedical Test PMT and other examinations conducted by Professional Examination Board also known as Vyapam an acronym in HindiFollowing a Supreme Court order in 2015 Saklecha submitted a comprehensive 320page complaint to the CBIAlthough the CBI and the Special Task Force recorded his statements the petitioner alleged that no meaningful action was taken on his complaintDue to inaction by the investigating agencies Saklecha moved the Madhya Pradesh High Court in 2023His petition was dismissed in April 2024 after which he filed an appeal in the Supreme CourtThe Vyapam scam which came to light in 2014 exposed largescale irregularities in recruitment examinations in Madhya PradeshIt started with the use of impersonators in the PMT examination and later spread to several other recruitment tests including those for police and transport departmentsThe case was later transferred from the State Special Task Force to the CBIIn an attempt to improve its image the name Vyapam was changed three times and is now known as the Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-directs-cbi-mp-govt-to-file-details-on-probe-charge-sheets-in-vyapam-scam-666754.html Thu, 26 Mar 2026 21:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-amit-shah-to-chair-all-party-meeting-on-west-asia-conflict-666463.html New Delhi March 25 IANS Home Minister Amit Shah will chair the allparty meeting on Wednesday evening to brief political leaders on the evolving crisis in West Asia amid rising concerns over its economic and security implications for IndianbspFive to six ministers including External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar will attend the meeting on behalf of the governmentForeign Secretary Vikram Misri will provide a briefing on the latest situation in West Asia during the meetingThe meeting is scheduled for 5 pm inside the Parliament complexnbspThe initiative follows statements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in both Houses of Parliament where he described the situation as an unprecedented crisis with potentially longlasting consequencesThe conflict in West Asia has now entered its fourth week disrupting key maritime trade routes particularly through the Strait of Hormuz The tensions have contributed to volatility in global energy markets and raised concerns over supply chains and inflation prompting the government to step up consultations with political stakeholdersOpposition parties including the Congress have been pressing the government for a detailed discussion in Parliament on the issue In the Rajya Sabha Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge criticised the governments decision to opt for a briefing instead of a full debate arguing that the gravity of the situation warranted a comprehensive discussion in the HouseLeader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also attacked the government alleging that Indias foreign policy has become compromised and driven by personal considerations rather than national interest While welcoming the move to hold an allparty meeting Gandhi stated that he would be unable to attend due to a prior engagement in KeralaThe allparty meeting comes a day after Rajnath Singh chaired a highlevel security review attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan the three service chiefs and senior officials including DRDO Chairman Dr Samir Kamat to assess the evolving regional situationWith geopolitical tensions escalating and their global fallout becoming more pronounced the meeting is expected to serve as a key platform for the government to brief opposition leaders and seek broader political consensus on Indias approach to the crisisIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-amit-shah-to-chair-all-party-meeting-on-west-asia-conflict-666463.html Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/govt-to-convene-all-party-meet-today-on-west-asia-crisis-666481.html New Delhi March 25 The government will hold an allparty meeting on Wednesday to brief political leaders on the evolving crisis in West Asia amid rising concerns over its economic and security implications for India The meeting scheduled for 5 pm inside the Parliament complex will be chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected to brief party leaders on the latest developments and Indiaâs diplomatic stance The initiative follows statements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in both Houses of Parliament where he described the situation as an âunprecedented crisisâ with potentially longlasting consequencesThe conflict in West Asia has now entered its fourth week disrupting key maritime trade routes particularly through the Strait of Hormuz The tensions have contributed to volatility in global energy markets and raised concerns over supply chains and inflation prompting the government to step up consultations with political stakeholdersOpposition parties including the Congress have been pressing the government for a detailed discussion in Parliament on the issue In the Rajya Sabha Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge criticised the governmentâs decision to opt for a briefing instead of a full debate arguing that the gravity of the situation warranted a comprehensive discussion in the HouseLeader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also attacked the government alleging that Indiaâs foreign policy has become âcompromisedâ and driven by personal considerations rather than national interest While welcoming the move to hold an allparty meeting Gandhi stated that he would be unable to attend due to a prior engagement in KeralaThe allparty meeting comes a day after Rajnath Singh chaired a highlevel security review attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan the three service chiefs and senior officials including DRDO Chairman Dr Samir Kamat to assess the evolving regional situationWith geopolitical tensions escalating and their global fallout becoming more pronounced the meeting is expected to serve as a key platform for the government to brief opposition leaders and seek broader political consensus on Indiaâs approach to the crisis IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/govt-to-convene-all-party-meet-today-on-west-asia-crisis-666481.html Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/owaisi-has-two-faces-giriraj-singh-attacks-aimim-chief-666501.html New Delhi March 25 Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi accusing him of speaking differently inside and outside Parliament Speaking to IANS Singh said Owaisi has two faces One face is that he speaks in Parliament with the Constitution and the law Outside his agenda is focused on figures like Akbar and Babur with the aim of questioning when Sharia laws will be implemented in IndiaThe remarks come amid fresh political developments involving the AIMIM Owaisi recently announced that his party will contest the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections in alliance with Humayun Kabirâs Aam Janata Unnayan Party AJUPThe move is being seen as a significant attempt to consolidate minority political forces in the state Kabir a former Trinamool Congress MLA has emerged as a notable figure in central Bengal particularly in Murshidabad district He had floated the AJUP in December 2025 after being expelled from the Trinamool CongressAt a gathering held at his party headquarters Darussalam in Hyderabad Owaisi also targeted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleging injustice against Bengali Muslims He claimed that at least five lakh OBC certificates had been cancelled under her governmentThe AIMIM chiefâs announcement signals a potential shift in West Bengalâs political landscape ahead of the Assembly polls with new alliances likely to influence electoral dynamics in minoritydominated regionsMeanwhile Giriraj Singh also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying The Prime Minister tweeted that the world is looking towards India with hope as many global leaders are facing challenges The worldâs trust rests on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and he is fulfilling his duties with dedication taking both the nation and the situation seriously Unlike the Leader of the Opposition LoP who is only spreading confusion IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/owaisi-has-two-faces-giriraj-singh-attacks-aimim-chief-666501.html Wed, 25 Mar 2026 15:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pakistan-leans-on-sunni-groups-to-curb-shia-mobilisation-maintain-iran-neutrality-666511.html New Delhi March 25 For Pakistanâs Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir countering the proIran Shia mobilisation in the country is increasingly becoming a headache For Pakistan countering this mobilisation is important as it is threatening to become bigger However the dilemma the establishment faces is that it cannot use its official machinery to take on the mobilisation of the Shias Pakistan has chosen to mediate between Iran and the United States and hence it needs to remain neutral Any direct action against the Shia mobilisation would infuriate Iran and this is something that Islamabad wants to avoidAn official said that Pakistan has now brought back its proxies to take on this problem The Pakistan Army chief has ordered hardline Sunni elements and leaders from the SipaheSabah SeS and JamaatudDawah JuD to take on the Shias who are mobilising in large numbers in support of Iran These groups have in the past come to the rescue of the Pakistan establishment When it comes to countering protesters who were seeking justice for jailed former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan it was these elements who took to the streetsThe members of the SeS and JuD have the backing of the army and ISI and have been given a free hand to indulge in street violence against those who are questioning the establishment an official saidThe SeS is a banned Sunni Deobandi Islamist organisation and a former political party that was founded in 1985 This outfit came into existence only to oppose Shia influence in Pakistan The SeS has a history of being involved in sectarian conflicts including violence with the Shia organisation ShipaheMuhammad PakistanThe JuD on the other hand is the charity wing of the LashkareTaiba The JuD follows the Ahli Hadith interpretation of Islam which is similar to Wahhabism and SalafismAn Intelligence Bureau official said that by involving the SeS and JuD the Pakistan army chief would look to put down the mobilisation of the Shia Since these groups have no accountability the violence would not be blamed on the state but on two individual organisations This helps in the deniability factor when Pakistan speaks with Iran the official addedSuch violence will no doubt be scrutinised internationally and by foreign Intelligence agencies The establishment would however try to get away by putting the blame on the SeS and JuD while stating that it has nothing to do with themAnother official said that both groups have been given immunity by the establishment This means that they can choose to act the way they pleaseAnother official said that with such a plan in place one could anticipate street violence and bloody clashes with the Shias in PakistanBy trying to mediate between Iran and the US Pakistan wants to place itself in a position of power Pakistan also wants to claim geopolitical relevance by offering to mediate between the two warring nationsField Marshal Asim Munir has taken this task upon himself and has been engaging directly with Iranian President Masood Pezeshkian He has also been leveraging his relations with some of the Gulf nations and the USWith Pakistan wanting geopolitical relevance it cannot afford to officially crush the mobilisation that is taking place in support of Iran If Pakistan ends up angering Iran at this juncture then Tehran may not come to the table This would hurt Pakistanâs ambitions of playing mediator and reclaiming geopolitical importance another official saidThe JuD and the SeS have readily accepted what the Pakistan army chief has said as they have done in the past Officials say that both these outfits have had an agenda against the Shias for a long time and hence the offer made by Field Marshal Munir is more than welcome for them IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pakistan-leans-on-sunni-groups-to-curb-shia-mobilisation-maintain-iran-neutrality-666511.html Wed, 25 Mar 2026 15:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/capf-bill-tabled-in-rs-oppn-questions-statuary-competence-666535.html New Delhi March 25 IANS The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday began discussion on the Central Armed Police Forces General Administration Bill 2026 which seeks to ensure a dominant role for Indian Police Service officers in the top leadership of the countrys paramilitary forcesnbspThe move has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties and retired CAPF officers They argue that the Bill undermines a Supreme Court judgment delivered on May 23 2025 In that verdict the apex court granted Organised Group A Service status to CAPF officers and directed the government to progressively reduce IPS deputation in the forces up to the rank of Inspector General over the next two yearsThe Bill aims to bring the five central forces Central Reserve Police Force CRPF Border Security Force BSF IndoTibetan Border Police ITBP Sashastra Seema Bal SSB and Central Industrial Security Force CISF under a unified administrative frameworkIt provides that 50 per cent of the total posts in the rank of Inspector General at least 67 per cent of the posts in the rank of Additional Director General and all posts in the ranks of Special Director General and Director General in the CAPFs shall be filled by IPS officers on deputationTill now such postings were governed by executive orders The proposed legislation aims to codify these provisions into lawThe Bill was tabled in the Upper House by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand RaiCPIM MP John Brittas strongly opposed the Bill stating that it travels beyond the legislative competence of the government acting under an ordinary piece of legislationHe added While Parliament is competent it cannot by mere declaration annul operative judicial orders without genuinely addressing the legal basisThe Chair asserted that Parliament has the legislative competence to enact the law However Brittas countered that Parliament cannot override a judicial order merely by declaration without properly addressing its legal foundationTrinamool Congress MP Derek OBrien and other opposition members also voiced their disapproval during the proceedingsEight hours have been allocated for the introduction and discussion of the Bill in the Upper House A member of an opposition party confirmed the scheduleRetired CAPF officials have termed the Bill unjust saying it goes against the spirit of the Supreme Court ruling that recognised the cadre strength and aspirations of officers from the forces themselvesThe government maintains that IPS leadership at senior levels is essential for better coordination between the Centre and states especially in matters of internal security and law and orderThe discussion is expected to continue with spirited exchanges between the ruling side and the oppositionThe Bill if passed will have farreaching implications for the structure and command of the Central Armed Police Forces including the CRPF BSF CISF ITBP and SSBIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/capf-bill-tabled-in-rs-oppn-questions-statuary-competence-666535.html Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ashok-gehlot-highlights-development-projects-delayed-by-bjp-govt-in-rajasthan-666179.html Jaipur March 23 Former Rajasthan Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader Ashok Gehlot on Monday unveiled a new digital series from his X account striking a sharp political and emotional chord Titled Intezar Shastra The science of waiting the series aims to spotlight projects that according to Gehlots team are fully ready for public use but remain unopened due to petty politics being played by the Bharatiya Janata Partyled state governmentIn the opening chapter the former Chief Minister sets the tone with a pointed critique of the current BJP government in Rajasthan accusing it of turning governance into an exercise in delayGehlot says that the BJPs Intezar Shastra is not just administrative inertia it is actively harming the aspirations and future of Rajasthans youthAt the centre of this first episode is the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Governance and Social Sciences MIGSS a flagship institution conceptualised during Gehlots tenure as the Chief Minister of RajasthanHe shares the video of the building from his X account and says Modeled on prestigious institutions like Tata Institute of Social Sciences Mumbai and MIT School of Government Pune MIGSS was envisioned as a hub for worldclass education in governance and social sciences Built at a cost of Rs 233 crore on Jaipurs JLN Marg the institute has reportedly been ready since 2024Gehlot alleged that MIGSS remains unopened till nowIn a strongly worded appeal the former Chief Minister urges the current BJP government to rise above political differences and dedicate what he calls a temple of learning to the youth of the state without further delayAn ordeal of waiting that the people of Rajasthan have endured for over two and a quarter yearsEarlier on Monday Gehlot announced the launch of series and said Coming soon Intezaar Shastra hinting that more such examples will follow in future chaptersThe first part of the series was released on Monday at 6 pm marking what appears to be the beginning of a sustained political narrative built around governance delays public infrastructure and youth opportunities in RajasthanGehlots team speaking to IANS said the aim of the series is highlight the significant work done during his tenure as Chief Minister which remains unused due to politics being played by the current BJPled state governmentThis series will run for around two weeks they told IANS IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ashok-gehlot-highlights-development-projects-delayed-by-bjp-govt-in-rajasthan-666179.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-stalin-questions-centre-on-readiness-flags-lpg-supply-evacuation-concerns-amid-west-asia-crisis-666256.html Chennai March 24 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Tuesday intensified his attack on the Centre questioning its preparedness to handle the fallout of the escalating West Asia conflict particularly with regard to fuel security and the safety of Indian citizens abroad Taking strong exception to remarks attributed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on public preparedness CM Stalin said governance responsibilities cannot be shifted onto citizens during times of crisis He asserted that asking people to brace for disruptions similar to those witnessed during the Covid19 pandemic reflects a lack of institutional readiness at the highest levelâPrepared for what leadership or its absenceâ the DMK president asked adding that crisis management is the responsibility of the Union government and not the burden of ordinary citizensHe further questioned why adequate safeguards had not been put in place in advance to prevent possible disruptionsThe Chief Minister said he had already written to the Prime Minister urging immediate and concrete steps to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply across Tamil Nadu for domestic commercial and industrial consumersHe cautioned that any disruption in LPG availability would directly impact households small businesses and key sectors dependent on fuelIn his communication CM Stalin also flagged the situation of Tamil residents stranded in West Asia due to the ongoing conflict He called for urgent intervention by the Centre including coordinated evacuation efforts facilitation of transit visas and the operation of additional flights to ensure their safe and timely returnHe further urged the Union government to revisit the methodology of natural gas allocation to power plants under the Natural Gas Supply Regulation Order 2026CM Stalin noted that Tamil Nadu would face a surge in electricity demand during the upcoming summer months and stressed that an adequate gas supply was critical to avoid power shortagesThe Chief Ministerâs remarks come amid growing concerns over the ripple effects of global geopolitical tensions on energy supply chains and domestic marketsEmphasising the need for proactive governance CM Stalin said timely intervention by the Centre was essential to safeguard both energy security and public welfare and reiterated that crisis preparedness must remain a core responsibility of the government IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-stalin-questions-centre-on-readiness-flags-lpg-supply-evacuation-concerns-amid-west-asia-crisis-666256.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 13:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tpcc-chief-urges-senior-leader-jeevan-reddy-to-reconsider-decision-to-quit-congress-666264.html Hyderabad March 24 Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president Mahesh Kumar Goud met senior Congress leader and former minister T Jeevan Reddy in Jagtial on Tuesday to persuade him to withdraw his decision to quit the party Mahesh Kumar Goud said he requested Jeevan Reddy not to resign from the partyThe TPCC chief told media persons that Jeevan Reddy has a long political career and vast experience and TPCC and AICC canât let him goHe said Jeevan Reddy felt hurt due to some decisions taken by the party He urged the senior leader to reconsider his decisionThe ruling party has been making efforts for the last couple of days to dissuade Jeevan Reddy from quitting the party Two days ago state minister D Sridhar Babu met himJeevan Reddy on Sunday decided to resign from the Congress ending his nearly fourdecade long association with the partyHe attributed his decision to what he called âgrowing interferenceâ of the âdefectedâ MLAs in party affairs He also warned that the impact of defections in Telangana will dent the image of the Congress at the national levelâRespect is above everything and in its absence there is no meaning in continuing in politicsâ he saidJeevan Reddy accused Jagtial MLA M Sanjay Kumar of undermining the interests of the loyal Congress cadre in the district He alleged that loyal Congress workers who brought the party to power by toiling hard were neglectedIn an open letter addressed to the Congress cadre Jeevan Reddy stated that it has become difficult to continue with the Congress party amid insults and mental agony âYou are invited to the meeting slated to be held in Jagtial town on March 25 to give your suggestions for deciding the future course of actionâ he wroteJeevan Reddy has been locked in a bitter fight with Sanjay Kumar who is one of the 10 MLAs of Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS who switched loyalties to the Congress party in 2024Jeevan Reddy who was defeated by Sanjay Kumar in the Jagtial constituency in the 2023 elections has openly challenged the party leadership for inducting him into the partyThe Telangana Assembly Speaker has dismissed petitions for disqualification of all 10 MLAsRecently the infighting in Congress party in Jagtial district came into the open when Jeevan Reddy expressed anger over allotment of more party tickets for municipal elections to Sanjay Kumarâs group IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tpcc-chief-urges-senior-leader-jeevan-reddy-to-reconsider-decision-to-quit-congress-666264.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-issues-notice-to-centre-states-on-pil-against-rising-false-cases-666303.html New Delhi March 24 IANS The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to the Centre and all states and Union Territories on a Public Interest Litigation PIL seeking directions to address the growing menace of false complaints fabricated charges and false evidence in the criminal justice systemnbspA bench of Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi passed the order while hearing a petition filed by advocate Ashwini Kumar UpadhyaynbspAs per the computerised case status the matter is tentatively likely to be listed for further hearing on May 11nbspThe petition claimed that the current legal framework prevents an aggrieved person or victim from initiating proceedings against false complaints and fabricated evidence without prior sanction of the court thereby creating a structural barrier to accountabilitynbspIt contended that a literal interpretation of Sections 215 and 379 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita BNSS 2023 has rendered several penal provisions ineffective thereby allowing criminals to flood police stations with false FIRs and overburden courts with false cases false charges false information false certificates false statements and false evidencenbspHighlighting the gravity of the issue the plea referred to an incident in Uttar Pradeshs Fatehpur district where a family allegedly died by suicide after facing threats of false implicationnbspThe injury to the public is very large as innocent citizens are committing suicide due to false cases the petition statednbspThe PIL contended that the absence of specific data on the prosecution of false complaints and perjury cases in National Crime Records Bureau NCRB records reflects a systemic gap in addressing the issuenbspAccording to the petitioner police stations are being flooded with false FIRs while courts are increasingly overburdened resulting in prolonged litigation reputational harm and financial and mental hardship for those falsely accusednbspAs a result the aggrieved person bears the reputational harm prolonged litigation and financial and mental hardship arising from false accusation while being denied the opportunity to act as the complainant the plea addednbspThe petition seeks a purposive and harmonious interpretation of Sections 215 and 379 of the BNSS to enable victims to initiate complaints against offences relating to false information false evidence and perjury with the leave of the courtnbspIt also emphasised that the objectives of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS and BNSS to ensure rule of law and secure speedy justice are being undermined due to the present legal positionnbspStating that unchecked misuse of criminal law threatens fundamental rights the plea urged the apex court to intervene to prevent abuse of legal processes and to protect innocent citizens from malicious prosecutionnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-issues-notice-to-centre-states-on-pil-against-rising-false-cases-666303.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 15:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/made-in-india-ships-in-the-works-rs-70-000-crore-earmarked-pm-modi-pitches-for-atmanirbharta-in-global-trade-666306.html New Delhi March 24 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday emphasised the governments plans and measures to insulate citizens from global oil shocks while highlighting the Centres endeavour to keep the global energy supply routes intact and operationalnbspnbspHe informed the Upper House that an elaborate campaign was underway to build Made in India ships to reduce the countrys dependence on foreign players in a rapidly changing global environmentBriefing the Rajya Sabha on the West Asia crisis PM Modi made a strong pitch for selfreliance in every sector including global fuel transportation and maritime corridorsAtmanirbharta is the only solution to insulate the country and countrymen from global shocks Presently about 90 per cent of Indian trade is carried out on foreign ships making us dependent on foreign players he saidStating that such dependence only aggravates the situation in the face of any global conflict or war the Prime Minister said that the government is on course to raise Made in India ships at a whopping sum of Rs 70000 croreHe said the government has undertaken a mega initiative to make India selfsufficient in maritime businesses asserting that India will soon become a key player in shipbuilding shipbreaking maintenance and overhaulingThe Prime Minister reiterated the governments resolve to achieve selfreliance in other sectors including defence explaining how a major share of Indias weaponry is now being built indigenouslyPM Modi said that the countrys economic fundamentals are strong the government is vigilant and watchful and contingency measures are being planned on a shortterm midterm and longterm impact basisHe further said that akin to the Covid19 pandemic the government has formed several interministerial panels to defuse the fuel crisis arising out of the West Asia conflictnbspPM Modi said the war in West Asia has created a serious global energy crisis and has disrupted routine supplies particularly through the Strait of Hormuz a key route for crude oil gas and fertilisersHe further said that India is trying to ensure the safe movement of ships carrying essential supplies despite the conflict situationIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/made-in-india-ships-in-the-works-rs-70-000-crore-earmarked-pm-modi-pitches-for-atmanirbharta-in-global-trade-666306.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/west-asia-conflict-tehseen-poonawalla-terms-paks-mediation-fake-news-666310.html Pune Maharashtra March 24 Political analyst Tehseen Poonawalla on Tuesday said that reports of Pakistan mediating between Iran Israel and the United States during the ongoing West Asia conflict is fake news His reaction comes following reports that the neighbouring country is attempting to position itself as the lead mediator to broker peace between Iran US and IsraelPoonawalla told IANS Pakistan will mediate between the Iran and Israel conflict Anyone who has published such news is either intoxicated or is on Pakistans payroll All this kind of news is fake and no one should believe itHe alleged that the rogue nation itself relies on financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund IMF and has major global stakeholders including the US China and Saudi ArabiaThis war is taking place between two of its stakeholders so how can Pakistan mediate between them What logic is this he saidPoonawalla claimed that there are only three countries namely Qatar Oman and India who can mediate in this conflictHitting out at Pakistan he said Supposedly if you are mediating in the conflict why would you put it out in the media and in the public And two years ago Iran and Pakistan were throwing missiles at each other During Ramzan Pakistan was bombing Afghanistan So how can it Pakistan mediate in this matterThe political analyst reiterated Pakistan is not mediatingUrging for the conflict to end he said As far as the mediation between Iran Israel and America is concerned the world doesnt want a war in West Asia They want the oil crisis to end I feel all countries including India should help in thisMeanwhile as the war in West Asia entered its fourth week countries worldwide are taking drastic measures to conserve fuel and ensure continued energy access for their people in the wake of the disruption in oil and gas supplies triggered by the escalation in the Middle East conflict IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/west-asia-conflict-tehseen-poonawalla-terms-paks-mediation-fake-news-666310.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/anganwadis-not-just-childcare-centres-but-hubs-of-maternal-child-health-nirmala-bhuria-666321.html Bhopal March 24 In a significant step to strengthen preâschool education in Madhya Pradesh the stateâs Women and Child Development Department on Tuesday organised a special programme across all Anganwadi centres to distribute âVidyarambhâ certificates to children who have completed their preâschool education The certificates were given to children aged between five and six years formally recognising their foundational learning at Anganwadi centres and facilitating their transition to formal schoolingMadhya Pradesh Women and Child Development Minister Nirmala Bhuria inaugurated the main event organised at an Anganwadi centre in the Nehru Nagar area in BhopalMinister Bhuria distributed Vidyarambh certificates to children who have completed their early education at Anganwadis and are now preparing to enrol in formal schoolsAfter the Minister formally inaugurated the event in Bhopal the process of distribution of Vidyarambh certificates was followed in more than 97000 Anganwadi centres operating across the state Local officials from the Women and Child Development Department joined the programmeSpeaking on this occasion Minister Nirmala Bhuria remarked that Anganwadi centres serve as the most crucial early learning institutions in a childâs life where comprehensive care is provided for both nutrition and educationâAnganwadi centres are not merely childcare places but it also serves as a hub for maternal and child health nutrition and early education Here care is provided for everything from the registration of pregnant women to the birth of the child and their subsequent nutrition health and holistic development up to the age of six yearsâ she saidBhuria highlighted that during the critical age range of 3 to 6 years special emphasis is placed on the physical intellectual social and emotional development of children at Anganwadi centresMeanwhile commending the Anganwadi workers the Minister noted that they are discharging numerous vital responsibilities such as maternal and child health nutrition and education with unwavering dedicationâIt is a testament to their tireless efforts that every year hundreds of thousands of children receive quality early education at Anganwadi centres and are subsequently prepared to enrol in formal schoolsâ she addedThe Vidyarambh certificate is an Early Childhood Care and Education ECCE document issued to Anganwadi students upon completing their preschool education facilitating their transition to primary school It serves as a formal record of their early learning typically including details like the childs ID enrolment date and Anganwadi centre information IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/anganwadis-not-just-childcare-centres-but-hubs-of-maternal-child-health-nirmala-bhuria-666321.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mp-lop-urges-cm-yadav-to-extend-farmers-loan-deadline-666341.html Bhopal March 24 Madhya Pradeshâs Leader of Opposition LoP Umang Singhar on Tuesday wrote a letter to Chief Minister Mohan Yadav highlighting the challenges being faced by farmers in the state and demanding immediate actionâ Congress leader Singhar urged the Chief Minister to fix the wheat procurement price for farmers at Rs 3000 per quintal and extend the loan repayment deadline to April 30âIn his letter Singhar mentioned that farmers in Madhya Pradesh are currently grappling with a severe economic crisis and that the state government should therefore take concrete steps with sensitivity and empathyâThe letter notes that the wheat procurement process in the state conducted through the Food Corporation of India FCI and cooperative societies commences on April 1 whereas the deadline for farmers to repay their loans is currently set for March 31âConsequently farmers face immense pressure to repay their loans even before they have had the opportunity to sell their produceâHe pointed out that the loan repayment deadline had previously been extended to April 30 providing farmers with ample time to sell their harvest and utilise the proceeds to settle their debtsâHowever last year this deadline was changed to March 31 As a result numerous farmers were unable to repay their loans on time and were subsequently declared defaultersâSinghar demanded that the government permanently reinstate April 30 as the deadline for farmersâ loan repayment replacing the current March 31 deadlineâFurthermore he demanded relief measures such as loan waivers or special concessions to be extended to farmers declared defaulters solely due to this change in the repayment deadlineââThe Congress party will request Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to acknowledge the gravity of the farmersâ plight and take prompt and appropriate decisions to provide them with the necessary reliefâ he wroteâIt is worth mentioning that wheat procurement at the Minimum Support Price MSP of Rs 2625 per quintal including a Rs 40 bonus over the Rs 2585 MSP in the state will begin from April 1â IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mp-lop-urges-cm-yadav-to-extend-farmers-loan-deadline-666341.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/frederiksen-seeks-third-term-as-denmark-holds-snap-parliamentary-election-666357.html Copenhagen March 24 People in Denmark are voting on Tuesday for a snap parliamentary election called by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen who is seeking a third term The latest polls give the leftwing coalition behind Frederiksen a nineseat lead over the right bloc However none of the two sides are projected to win a majority of the 179 seats in Denmarks parliament the Folketing Euro News reportedFrederiksen who has been in office since 2019 has been praised for her leadership of not backing down after US President Donald Trumps repeated demands to annex Greenland a semiautonomous territory of the Denmark which Trump claims the US needs for national security reasonsDuring her second term support for Mette Frederiksen in Denmark reduced as the cost of living increased something that along with pensions and a potential wealth tax has been a campaign issue Frederiksen is known for her strong support for Ukraine amid its war with RussiaEarlier this month Frederiksen announced proposals including potential âemergency brakeâ on asylum and stringent controls on criminals who do not have legal residence Her government announced a plan to allow the deportation of foreigners who have been sentenced to at least one year in prison for serious crimesTwo centreright challengers Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen of the liberal Venstre Left party and Alex Vanopslagh 34 of the opposition Liberal Alliance LA hope to replace Mette Frederiksen as Denmark PM Euro News reportedMeanwhile the antiimmigration Danish Peopleâs Party DF seems wellplaced to make a come back after a weak performance during the previous election in 2022The issue of Greenland did not get much attention during the election campaign in Denmark Instead the campaign in Denmark has focused on domestic issues including inflation high nitrate levels in agricultural water and welfare stateDuring her address in Folketing in February Frederiksen said that voters would decide what direction Denmark will take over the next four years Xinhua News Agency reported The vote will decide the makeup of the 179member parliament which includes seats representing Greenland and the Faroe Islands IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/frederiksen-seeks-third-term-as-denmark-holds-snap-parliamentary-election-666357.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-alleges-e-khata-scam-in-bbmp-criticises-ktaka-govt-over-bengalurus-civic-woes-666358.html Bengaluru March 24 Senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition R Ashoka on Tuesday alleged widespread corruption in the implementation of the eKhata system by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike BBMP Speaking in the Legislative Assembly Ashoka alleged that a âracketâ is operating within the Bengaluru civic agency with officials demanding bribes to process eKhata applicationsHe claimed that despite the governmentâs Brand Bengaluru initiative announced by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar civic administration in the city has deterioratedCiting a specific case in HBR Layout Ashoka said a property owner who had legally purchased a site through auction was allegedly forced to pay bribes to convert his property to eKhataThough an initial amount was paid digitally the application was reportedly rejected multiple times forcing the owner to pay more Even after payment the issue remained unresolved he claimed adding that complaints to authorities yielded no reliefAshoka further alleged that similar practices are prevalent across the city including in Devanahalli where officials reportedly demand up to Rs 50000 for issuing eKhataAshoka also alleged that intermediaries including a retired official are running parallel systems to facilitate approvals for hefty feesRaising concerns over governance Ashoka said Bengaluru civic agency officials have even issued auction notices for properties despite taxes being paid calling it evidence of a âmafiaâ operating within the system He said several citizens have approached him with complaintsHighlighting broader civic issues Ashoka said Bengaluru which contributes nearly 65 per cent of the stateâs revenue is facing severe infrastructure challenges He pointed to unfilled potholes poor road conditions and garbage mismanagement despite claims of large budget allocationsThe BJP leader criticised the government for failing to address the cityâs waste management crisis stating that thousands of tonnes of garbage remain unprocessed due to the absence of functional dumping yards He also flagged severe staff shortages across BBMP departments which he said are affecting service deliveryAshoka further raised concerns over delays in issuing Occupancy Certificates OC claiming that lakhs of buildings remain unused due to procedural hurdles He questioned why construction approvals were granted if OCs could not be issued IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-alleges-e-khata-scam-in-bbmp-criticises-ktaka-govt-over-bengalurus-civic-woes-666358.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/adbs-10-billion-credit-wont-solve-pakistans-institutional-challenges-without-deep-reforms-report-666359.html New Delhi March 24 The Asian Development Bankâs 10 billion credit to Pakistan till 2030 signalled continued multilateral confidence but underscores the countrys heavy reliance on external support and the urgent need for structural reforms to solve institutional challenges as per a media report The editorial from Dawn highlighted that capital inflows alone cannot fix institutional challengesThe focus on integrated solutions by combining policy reforms with financing and technical support shows that Pakistanâs challenges are institutional it saidThe ADBs emphasis on sustainable private sectorled development inclusive growth export competitiveness and sustainability and climate resilience proves its recognition that macroeconomic stabilisation alone wont suffice it notedThe institutions fiveyear partnership comes along with Pakistanâs economy showing signs of fragile stabilisation but remains vulnerable to internal and external shocks it addedPakistans growth model has been skewed towards consumption for decades underpinned by periodic external inflows due to its geostrategic location rather than productivity gains but that advantage has eroded according to the analysisBy prioritising governance and productivity reforms Pakistan can transition towards sustainable investment and exportdriven growth it saidThe editorial argued that with the Gulf conflict increasing energy market volatility and raising the risk of supply disruptions Islamabad faces a graver external shock than prior crisesâWithout deep structural reforms to diversify the production base enhance competitiveness and move up the value chain the external sector will remain a source of instability leaving any recovery vulnerable to even minor shocksâ it notedPakistanâs horoscope for 2026â2031 would be written in debt ledgers inflation charts and poverty lines another recent report had said warning of slow growth and inflation eroding household budgetsAnalysts said that stabilisation programmes and IMF support can only buy time but cannot generate sustained growth and a lack of decisive action from the government will lead employment to remain concentrated in informal lowâproductivity services IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/adbs-10-billion-credit-wont-solve-pakistans-institutional-challenges-without-deep-reforms-report-666359.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-all-households-to-get-safe-drinking-water-by-2028-666361.html Amaravati March 24 All households in Andhra Pradesh will have access to safe drinking water by 2028 under the Jal Jeevan Mission 20 Officials from the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Andhra Pradesh government formally signed the Memorandum of Understanding MoU on Jal Jeevan Mission JJM 20 in New Delhi todayâUnion Minister for Jal Sakti CR Paatil praised the efforts of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu in extending the Jal Jeevan Mission by taking up the issue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi âChief Minister Chandrababu Naidu reaffirmed the state governmentâs commitment towards uninterrupted and safe drinking water supply to every rural household under JJMâHe participated virtually from Amaravati in the MoU signing ceremony held in New Delhi between the Centre and states for the implementation of JJM 20âThe Chief Minister stated that the state is prioritising the operation and maintenance of rural drinking water supply systems âHe recalled that a comprehensive policy in this regard was introduced in September 2025 âHe said that the responsibility for maintaining water supply systems has been entrusted to local panchayats Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan is closely monitoring the implementation of the mission he notedâThe Chief Minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for extending the Jal Jeevan Mission until 2028 He also urged the Centre to extend support for completing the Polavaram Project by the time of the Godavari PushkaramsâUnion Minister C R Paatil highlighted that in the first phase of the mission tap connections were provided to 16 crore households across the country while another 3 crore households are yet to be covered âHe suggested involving DWACRA womens groups in Andhra Pradesh to conduct water quality testing thereby empowering rural womenâHe further noted that the mission has already reduced the burden of fetching water for nearly 9 crore women nationwideâSenior officials including Jal Shakti Secretary Ashok Kumar Meena and AP Panchayati Raj Principal Secretary S S Rawat participated in the event while Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan joined virtually from Amaravati IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-all-households-to-get-safe-drinking-water-by-2028-666361.html Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/trumps-reaction-to-ex-fbi-director-muellers-death-sparks-criticism-665990.html Washington March 22 US President Donald Trumps reaction to the death of former FBI Director Robert Mueller has drawn criticism across political circles including from senior Republicans Mueller who led the FBI for more than a decade and later oversaw the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election died on SaturdayShortly after the news broke Trump posted Robert Mueller just died Good Iâm glad heâs dead He can no longer hurt innocent peopleâThe remarks prompted immediate reactions with critics calling them inappropriate particularly in light of Muellerâs long record of public serviceSpeaking on ABC Newsâ This Week with George Stephanopoulos former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie condemned the statementâItâs reprehensible for anyone to say that about someone who had the life of service that Robert Mueller hadâ Christie saidHe added that it was âeven more reprehensibleâ for a sitting President to speak in such terms about a decorated military veteranMueller served in the Vietnam War and was awarded a Purple Heart after being wounded in combat He also received other honours including a Bronze Star and a Navy Commendation MedalChristie who worked with Mueller during his tenure as US Attorney said differences in professional roles did not diminish his respect for Muellerâs serviceâThe one thing I can tell you about him is that when his country called him to service he never said noâ he saidHe also described Trumpâs reaction as stemming from personal grievance âIt comes from his own sense that the only thing that matters in the world is himâ Christie saidOthers on the programme also highlighted Muellerâs legacy noting his decades of service in law enforcement and national security rolesMueller was appointed FBI Director in 2001 and led the bureau through the aftermath of the September 11 attacks overseeing major counterterrorism efforts during a critical periodThe Russia probe led by Mueller as Special Counsel examined Moscowâs efforts to influence the 2016 election and potential links to the Trump campaign shaping US political discourse for years IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/trumps-reaction-to-ex-fbi-director-muellers-death-sparks-criticism-665990.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-to-address-lok-sabha-on-west-asia-conflict-today-665995.html New Delhi March 23 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Lok Sabha at 2 pm on Monday focusing on the key concerns relating to the ongoing West Asia conflictnbspEarlier on Sunday PM Modi chaired a highlevel meeting to review the situation in the petroleum crude oil gas power and fertiliser sectors with a focus on ensuring uninterrupted supply and stable distribution amid the evolving crisis in West AsianbspThe meeting focused on maintaining uninterrupted supply ensuring stable logistics and streamlining distribution systems across the country to prevent any disruption in essential servicesOfficials briefed the Prime Minister on the current status of fuel availability and steps being taken to safeguard Indias energy securityAccording to sources the government is closely monitoring global developments and has taken proactive measures to ensure that consumers and industries are not affected by volatility in international marketsEfforts are underway to maintain adequate reserves and strengthen supply chains amid rising geopolitical uncertaintiesThe review comes at a time when global energy markets remain on edge due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia a region that plays a crucial role in global oil and gas suppliesConcerns have also been raised over disruptions in key shipping routes particularly the Strait of Hormuz which handles a significant share of global energy tradeA day earlier Prime Minister Modi spoke with Irans President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the regional situation and emphasised the need for peace and stabilityHe also underlined the importance of keeping international shipping lanes open and secure warning that any disruption could impact global supply chainsTo reduce dependence on the Middle East India has diversified its oil and gas imports increasing purchases from countries such as the United States Russia and African nations like NigeriaOfficials said that nearly 70 per cent of Indias oil imports now come from sources outside the Gulf regionThe government has also stepped up efforts to manage LPG supplies including sourcing liquefied petroleum gas from the US to address potential shortagesWhile concerns over LPG availability persist officials said there has been no disruption in supply at the consumer level with online bookings rising significantlyIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-to-address-lok-sabha-on-west-asia-conflict-today-665995.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 13:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/union-home-secretary-to-chair-jampk-security-review-meet-today-666015.html Jammu March 23 Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan will chair a toplevel security review meeting on Jammu and Kashmir on Monday through video conferencing Officials said the Union Home Secretary will review the security and financial position of the JampK Police in the present fiscal and also in 20262027The meeting will be attended by JampK Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo DGP Nalin Prabhat senior officers at the police headquarters and the two Inspector Generals of Kashmir and Jammu divisions The meeting will start at 230 pmThe Union Home Secretary will chair the meeting through video conferencing from New Delhi This will be the first highlevel review of the security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir by the Union Home Secretary after the killing of four top terrorists of the JaisheMohammed JeM outfit including their commander Saifullah in the upper reaches of Chatroo in Kishtwar district last monthSources said the strategy to further step up antiterror operations in the mountains and forests of the UT especially the Jammu region where some foreign terrorists are suspected to be hiding will come up for reviewAs summer sets in antiterror operations will be intensified the sources saidThe Union Home Ministry wants security agencies to go all out against the hiding terroristsBesides the Army paramilitary forces and JKP the speciallytrained Special Operations Group SOG personnel have also been deployed in the mountains forests and upper reaches where the terrorists are suspected to be hidingThe SOG personnel have been welltrained to carry out antiterror operations in extremely difficult areas and hostile weatherThe overground network of the terrorists also remains a cause of concern for the security agencies the sources said adding that once this nexus is cracked the terrorists will find it difficult to survive and allout efforts are now being made in this directionThere have been reports that some OGW networks have been cracked and the police are close to smashing other such syndicates As per the sources the review of the financial position of Jammu and Kashmir is also high on the agenda at the meetingExpenditure of the budget during the current financial year of 202526 in which hardly 10 days have been left and requirements of the police for 202626 will also be discussed at the meetingââ the sources said pointing out that the JKPâs budget is now being directly funded by the Union Ministry of Home AffairsThe JKP is now a wellmodernised force equipped with sophisticated weapons and equipment to tackle terrorists and all kinds of crimesHowever the modernisation remains an ongoing process and certain measures are being taken in this regard the sources said Various other issues like followup of the previous meetings taken by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan will also figure in the meetingIt may be mentioned here that Amit Shah visited the Jammu region from February 57 and chaired highlevel security review and developmentrelated meetingsIn the revised strategy the JampK Police and the security forces are targeting terrorists their OGWs and sympathisers to completely dismantle the terror support system in the union territoryDrug smugglers and those involved in hawala money rackets are also on the scanner of the security forces as it is believed that funds generated by these activities are finally used to fund terrorism IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/union-home-secretary-to-chair-jampk-security-review-meet-today-666015.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-eci-to-publish-1st-supplementary-list-of-judicial-adjudication-cases-today-666019.html Kolkata March 23 The first supplementary list for judicial adjudication of voters classified under the âlogical discrepancy categoryâ will be published later on Monday As per statistics available from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer CEO West Bengal till Sunday night the judicial adjudication process had been completed for 2806000 cases and all these cases will be mentioned in the first supplementary under the âapprovedâ and ârejectedâ categoriesAn insider from the CEOâs office said that roughly 34 per cent of cases whose judicial adjudication process has been completed have been found excludable However the voters whose names will be found excludable would have the liberty to challenge that in 19 Appellate Tribunals especially constituted for that purposeTo recall the final votersâ list in West Bengal minus those 60 lakh odd names which were referred for judicial adjudication was published on February 28 As per the order of the Supreme Court supplementary lists will be published periodically on the basis of the progress of the judicial adjudication the first of which will be published on MondayIt is learnt that the list will reach the district magistrates as well as the district election officers by afternoon Voters will be able to see the additional list by going online to the Election Commission of India ECIâs website from this evening The additional list will be displayed at the booths BDO SDO offices and DM officesAlready the state police administration as per the instruction of the ECI has taken all possible security measures to prevent instances of tension or violence over grievances following the publication of the first supplementary listA securityrelated meeting was held on Sunday at the office The CEO of West Bengal Manoj Kumar Agarwal met with the Joint Force Deployment Committee on this count The meeting discussed the deployment of Central forces in the upcoming Assembly electionsThe CEOâs office insiders said that a plan was made on where and how many forces personnel will be deployed as well as how the units will operate The meeting was attended by state police nodal officer Anand Kumar special police observer NK Mishra central force nodal officers Shalav Mathur and Gaurav SharmaMeanwhile the ECIâs top brass at the Commissionâs headquarters in New Delhi will hold a highlevel virtual meeting with the district magistrates district police superintendents and the commissioners of different police commissariats in the afternoonPolling for the West Bengal Assembly elections will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29 Voting will take place in 152 constituencies in the first phase and in the remaining 142 constituencies in the second phase IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-eci-to-publish-1st-supplementary-list-of-judicial-adjudication-cases-today-666019.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bhagat-singh-sukhdev-and-rajguru-nation-pays-tributes-to-immortal-sons-of-india-666024.html New Delhi March 23 India on Monday marked Shaheedi Diwas to honour the sacrifices made by revolutionaries Bhagat Singh Sukhdev and Rajguru in the nations freedom struggle Bhagat Singh Sukhdev Thapar and Shivaram Rajguru were iconic Indian revolutionaries whose execution on March 23 1931 in Lahore jail fueled the freedom struggle March 23 is now observed as Shaheedi DiwasUnion Home Minister Amit Shah took to X and paid homage to the revolutionaries calling them epochmaking figures of the Indian freedom struggle who inspired the youth for the liberation of the motherland through both their thoughts and actions The echo of these heroes valour struck terror into the entire British regime Recalling the heroic saga of these brave souls who went to the gallows for the freedom of the motherland fills every fibre of my being with patriotic fervour he addedUnion Health Minister JP Nadda said that on this Shaheedi Diwas I pay my countless salutations to the immortal martyrs Bhagat Singh Rajguru and Sukhdev Ji who laid down their lives for the freedom of Mother IndiaWith their valour bravery and courage they instilled a sense of selfrespect and revolutionary spirit in the hearts of millions of youth across the country igniting such a flame of revolution that brought the entire freedom struggle to a decisive turning point The sacrifice and dedication of these great heroic martyrs to the nation serve as an inspiration for us all he addedDefence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid homage to Bhagat Singh Sukhdev and Rajguru calling them immortal sons of Mother India and lauding their courage sacrifice and martyrdom demonstrated in their resolve to free the nation The sacrifice and patriotism of these great revolutionaries will continue to inspire generations to come Singh saidTaking to X External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar said On Shaheedi Diwas pay homage to the indomitable freedom fighters Bhagat Singh Rajguru and Sukhdev Their unparalleled courage conviction and commitment to the nation continue to inspireUttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also hailed the immortal sacrifice of Bhagat Singh Sukhdev and Rajguru who he said ignited the flame of revolution turning a golden chapter in Indias historyTheir courage dedication and spirit of patriotism will continue to inspire us with the mantra of Nation First for centuries to come On this Shaheedi Diwas a humble tribute to the brave martyrs the Uttar Pradesh CM saidDelhi CM Rekha Gupta also took to social media and paid tributes to Bhagat Singh Sukhdev and RajguruTheir supreme sacrifice for the unity and integrity of the nation will forever be etched in letters of gold in the pages of Indian history The ideals of these eternal sons continue to inspire us with the strength to remain devoted to the resolve of public service and nationbuilding she addedMembers of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association HSRA including Bhagat Singh Rajguru and Sukhdev sought to avenge Lala Lajpat Rais death by targeting British officer James Scott This led to the Saunders shooting in 1928 Later they threw bombs in the Central Assembly to demand independence The three were arrested and sentenced to deathInspired by socialist ideas they believed their ultimate sacrifice would ignite a massive revolutionary movement against colonial rule IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bhagat-singh-sukhdev-and-rajguru-nation-pays-tributes-to-immortal-sons-of-india-666024.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/vip-culture-disrupts-lives-affects-dignity-of-citizens-and-mps-jaya-bachchan-666035.html New Delhi March 23 IANS Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bachchan on Monday raised strong objections to the growing VIP culture in the national Capital saying it disrupts the lives of common citizens and also affects the dignity of elected representativesnbspSpeaking in the Rajya Sabha Jaya Bachchan described the issue as a serious concern and said the frequent movement of VIPs in Delhi often leads to road blockades traffic diversions and long delays for the publicShe said that whenever a VIP whether a politician senior official or other dignitary is on the move roads are stopped for other commuters forcing people to wait for extended periods before they can continue their journeySharing a recent personal experience the Samajwadi Party MP said the main gate of Parliament was closed due to VIP movement when she was leaving the premises forcing her and other MPs to waitCalling it the most humiliating experience of her 22year parliamentary career Bachchan said such treatment was unacceptable even for elected representatives adding that MPs posed no threat to any VIPShe further said that several localities in Delhi where senior political leaders reside often witness road closures due to security arrangements making it difficult even for MPs to reach Parliament on timeAccording to her MPs are sometimes forced to wait for up to half an hour because of VIP movement and must plan their travel schedules carefully to ensure timely arrival in the HouseCiting another instance Bachchan said she was stuck in traffic for nearly an hour while trying to attend a farewell function hosted by Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan for retiring members of the House again due to VIP movementShe noted that such situations also lead to growing frustration among the public and warned that the impact of VIP culture extends beyond inconvenienceExpressing concern the MP said emergency services such as ambulances are also affected when traffic is halted for VIP movement which could prove dangerous for patients in critical conditionDrawing comparisons with other countries she has visited Bachchan said that while VIP movement exists elsewhere ordinary citizens are not inconvenienced in the same wayShe urged the Rajya Sabha Chairman who also serves as the Vice President of India to take up the matter with the government and initiate steps to address the issueEnding VIP culture is essential to ensure respect for taxpayers and uphold the spirit of democracy she said warning that continued public inconvenience could eventually lead to situations such as road rageIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/vip-culture-disrupts-lives-affects-dignity-of-citizens-and-mps-jaya-bachchan-666035.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/brs-stages-protest-to-demand-release-of-fee-reimbursement-funds-666060.html Hyderabad March 23 Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS legislators staged a protest near Telangana Assembly building on Monday demanding the immediate release of fee reimbursement funds Before the commencement of the dayâs proceedings in the Legislative Assembly and Council BRS MLAs and MLCs gathered at Telangana Martyrsâ Memorial Gun ParkDisplaying placards the legislators of the main Opposition party demanded that the government immediately release funds for pending fee reimbursementLeader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Madhusudhana Chary told media persons that the Telangana government is allegedly playing with the lives of students just as it is playing the lives of all sections of societyHe alleged that many students are forced to drop out as the government has not released fee reimbursement funds on timeâWe demand the immediate release of â¹12000 crore in pending fee reimbursement arrearsâ he saidMadhusudhana Chary alleged that the government lacks sincerity regarding the welfare of students belonging to Scheduled Castes Scheduled Tribes and Backward ClassesHe claimed that K Chandrasekhar Rao KCR continued the highly prioritised fee reimbursement scheme originally introduced by YS Rajasekhara Reddy âWhile KCR paved a golden path for students this government is pushing education out of the reach of poor students We demand that the fee reimbursement funds be released immediately and in a timely mannerâ he saidThe BRS legislators marched to the Assembly building with placards The security staff stopped them and asked them to leave the placards outsideWhen the legislators insisted that they be allowed to carry the placards inside the marshals snatched placards from themBRS gave notices for adjournment motions in both the Houses for a discussion on fee reimbursement However presiding officers rejected the noticesMeanwhile police have stepped up security around the Assembly building in view of the call given by Opposition BJP for laying siege to the building over various issuesThe BJP has called for the protest over what it calls the governmentâs failure to implement six guarantees displacement faced by many families due to Musi Riverfront development project and other issues IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/brs-stages-protest-to-demand-release-of-fee-reimbursement-funds-666060.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/will-sit-together-and-decide-today-piyush-goyal-in-chennai-on-nda-seat-sharing-666070.html Chennai March 23 Union Minister and BJPâs Tamil Nadu election incharge Piyush Goyal said on Monday that all the NDA partners will sit together and finalise the seat allocation âWe will all sit down in a room and decide and let you know todayâ said the Minister as he arrived in Chennai to hold crucial discussions aimed at finalising the National Democratic Alliance NDA seatsharing arrangement for the upcoming Assembly electionsGoyalâs visit assumes significance as the AIADMKled alliance faces mounting pressure to conclude negotiations with the election process fast approaching The highlevel meeting is expected to bring muchneeded clarity on the allocation of constituencies among alliance partnersDuring his visit Goyal is scheduled to meet AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami and other key leaders of the alliance including PMK chief Anbumani Ramadoss AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran and Union Minister L MuruganThese discussions are seen as critical to resolving pending differences and finalising a mutually acceptable formulaExpressing confidence ahead of the talks Goyal emphasised that discussions would be conducted in a cooperative âfamily spiritâ with all partners working towards consensus He underlined that the focus would remain on achieving a balanced and fair agreement rather than rushing decisions under strict timelinesDrawing from his experience in handling complex trade negotiations Goyal remarked that he prefers prioritising quality outcomes over timebound decisions suggesting that a durable and agreeable arrangement is more important than speedHis remarks come at a crucial juncture with nomination filing dates nearing and alliance partners under increasing pressure to identify constituencies and finalise candidatesPolitical observers believe that Mondayâs meeting could mark a turning point in the NDAâs election preparations in Tamil NaduProjecting optimism about the allianceâs prospects Goyal claimed that there is growing public dissatisfaction with the ruling DMKCongress allianceHe asserted that the political mood in the state is shifting and that the NDA is wellpositioned to emerge as a credible alternativeOutlining the allianceâs campaign priorities he said the NDA under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi would focus on development in key sectors such as agriculture fisheries MSMEs and industryHe added that job creation youth empowerment and support for startups would form the core of the allianceâs agendaThe outcome of the meeting is expected not only to seal the seatsharing pact but also to set the stage for a coordinated and aggressive NDA campaign in Tamil Nadu IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/will-sit-together-and-decide-today-piyush-goyal-in-chennai-on-nda-seat-sharing-666070.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/case-handed-over-to-cid-karnataka-minister-on-cop-accused-of-sexual-harassment-666074.html Bengaluru March 23 Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Monday said that the investigation into the alleged assault by a police inspector on women in Moodbidri in Mangaluru district has been handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department CID Addressing reporters in Bengaluru he said he had directed the State Director General of Police to transfer the case to the CID for a detailed probe considering the seriousness of the allegationsThe minister said that the Chairperson of the State Womenâs Commission Nagalakshmi Chowdhary along with the victim had shared several details regarding the incident Based on these inputs the decision was taken to entrust the case to the CID for further investigationHe noted that immediate action had already been taken by suspending the accused police inspector soon after the allegations surfaced The department has also been asked to submit a report on the incidentParameshwara said a comprehensive investigation was necessary to ascertain the full extent of the case âThe truth will come out after the CID probe It will also reveal if there are more victims involvedâ he addedResponding to a query on remarks against the Congressled government made by Pranavananda Swamiji the minister said the All India Congress Committee AICC follows its own mandate while making decisions He added that statements made by religious leaders reflect public sentiment but decisions are taken based on internal assessments and reportsIt may be noted that Mangaluru City Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy suspended Moodbidri Police Inspector Sandesh last week pending a departmental inquiry on charges of misbehaving with womenThe suspension order was issued on March 17 following a preliminary inquiry by the Assistant Commissioner of Police ACP North Sub Division Mangaluru into complaints filed by a few women with the Karnataka State Commission for Women alleging that the inspector had harassed themAt a recent press conference two women alleged that the inspector sought sexual favours from women visiting the police station for official work Alternatively they claimed he demanded bribesIn the suspension order Commissioner Reddy stated that the preliminary inquiry did not substantiate the allegation of demanding sexual favours However it corroborated allegations of misbehaviour based on verification of videos in which the inspector was seen speaking inappropriately to a woman He was suspended on these groundsThe suspended inspector Sandesh has also been accused of claiming that he had paid Rs 40 lakh to Home Minister G Parameshwara to secure his posting and that no one could take action against him while allegedly threatening a complainantMeanwhile Venoor police in Mangaluru have also registered a rape case against Moodbidri Police Inspector PG Sandesh who is currently under suspension following a complaint filed by a college principal in Belthangady taluk She has accused him of sexually assaulting her between 2020 and 2023 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/case-handed-over-to-cid-karnataka-minister-on-cop-accused-of-sexual-harassment-666074.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-ministers-would-bring-money-in-gunny-bags-to-influence-voters-claims-bjp-on-bypolls-666076.html Bagalkot Karnataka March 23 BJP State President and MLA BY Vijayendra on Monday expressed strong confidence that the party will win the byeelections in Davanagere South and Bagalkot constituencies No one can stop the lotus from blooming he stated BY Vijayendra alleged that the Chief Minister and several Cabinet ministers are likely to camp in Bagalkot while in Davanagere South ministers would bring money ânot in suitcases but in gunny bagsâ to influence votersVijayendra claimed that the Karnataka government was âcorrupt antipeople antipoor antifarmer antiDalit and antiyouthâ adding that people were fed up with its governanceVijayendra said that despite being the ruling party the Congress would not be able to prevent the BJPâs victory in the two constituencies regardless of the âcircusâ it engages inHe exuded confidence that BJP candidate Veeranna Charantimath would win in Bagalkot and that the party would secure a historic victory in Davanagere South However he cautioned party workers against complacency and urged them to remain vigilant until the last moment of votingHe instructed workers to ensure that voters are brought from their homes to polling booths expressing confidence that such efforts would result in a decisive victory for BJP candidatesRecalling his visit Vijayendra said he had offered special prayers before leaving Bengaluru and sought the blessings of his father former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa He noted that Yediyurappa has never backed down from challenges in his political career and said he was encouraged by his guidanceHe also acknowledged internal differences within the party but assured that the leadership would resolve them âAll leaders will work together to ensure BJPâs victoryâ he saidReiterating his earlier stance Vijayendra asserted that the BJP would win both byeelections and that âno one can stop the lotus from bloomingâ He further alleged that the Congress had resorted to conspiracies in the past during the Sira and KR Pete bypolls and urged party workers to stay alert until voting concludes IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-ministers-would-bring-money-in-gunny-bags-to-influence-voters-claims-bjp-on-bypolls-666076.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shah-asks-punjab-mps-to-give-written-request-for-cbi-probe-in-officers-suicide-case--666087.html New Delhi March 23 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said in the Lok Sabha that the alleged harassmentlinked suicide case involving a Punjab government official pertains to the state government but assured that the Centre would consider transferring the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI if Members of Parliament from Punjab submit a written requestnbspSpeaking during the discussion in the Lok Sabha HM Shah said the issue falls under the jurisdiction of the Punjab government but the Centre is open to facilitating a CBI enquiry if there is a formal written demand from the states MPsThis issue pertains to the state of Punjab I request all Members of Parliament from Punjab to give it to me in writing that the matter should be transferred to the CBI and I will get it done from my side the Home Minister saidShahs remarks came amid political uproar over the suicide of Gagandeep Singh Randhawa District Manager of the Punjab State Warehousing Corporation following which Punjab Police registered a case against former Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar and two othersReacting to the Home Ministers statement Union Minister and BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu welcomed the suggestion for a possible CBI probe and said all political parties should unite in seeking justice for the deceased officialBittu said the Congress Shiromani Akali Dal and the BJP had already taken the lead in raising the issue and pressing for accountabilityI say this is a good step The Congress party Akali Dal and the BJP have taken the lead Our Home Minister Amit Shah has said that if MPs give it in writing the matter can be transferred to the CBI Bittu saidHe added that it was perhaps the first time that leaders across party lines had come together to protest over the issueAll parties have come together and protested this has happened for the first time We want justice Bittu saidReferring to the martyrdom day of Bhagat Singh Sukhdev and Rajguru Bittu also paid tribute to the freedom fighters and appealed to all MPs from Punjab to support the demand for a CBI probeToday is the martyrdom day of Bhagat Singh Sukhdev and Rajguru I pay my tribute to them he saidHe also urged the two MPs from the Aam Aadmi Party AAP representing Punjab in Parliament to join the demandIf they are from Punjab and truly respect the sacrifice of Bhagat Singh then both MPs should also demand a CBI enquiry Bittu addedThe controversy erupted after Punjab Police registered a case against former Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar after Gagandeep Singh Randhawa allegedly died by suicide after consuming poison at his residence in AmritsarBefore his death Randhawa reportedly recorded a brief video message accusing Bhullar of harassment and coercion Based on a complaint by the deceaseds wife Upinder Kaur police also booked Bhullars father Sukhdev Bhullar and personal assistant Dilbagh Singh under charges related to abetment of suicide criminal intimidation and common intentionThe incident has triggered sharp political reactions in Punjab with Opposition parties demanding strict action and a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the officials deathIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hm-shah-asks-punjab-mps-to-give-written-request-for-cbi-probe-in-officers-suicide-case--666087.html Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/best-wishes-for-golden-future-prez-murmu-pm-modi-on-bihar-diwas-665913.html New Delhi March 22 President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday led the nation in extending greetings on the occasion of Bihar Day highlighting the stateâs rich historical legacy and its continued contribution to Indiaâs development In a post on X President Murmu said âHeartfelt greetings of Bihar Day to all the people of Bihar residing in the country and abroad As the land of the worldâs first republic and along with it the birthplace of glorious empires and great culturalspiritual traditions this soil has always enriched the land of India by making contributions in various fields I am confident that the residents of the state with their boundless talent and hard work will play an important role in the development of Bihar and the entire country I extend my best wishes for a golden future to the state and all its residentsâPrime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his greetings emphasising Biharâs role in Indiaâs progress In his message he said âOn the occasion of Bihar Day heartfelt greetings to all my family members in the state Our province which imparts grandeur and divinity to Indiaâs heritage is today engaged in crafting evernew chapters of progress I am confident that the dedication and capability of the hardworking and energetic people here will greatly contribute to realising the resolve of a developed Bihar alongside a developed IndiaâUnion Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted Biharâs intellectual and cultural contributions He said âRenowned for its rich culture traditions and unique arts Bihar has always shown the country the path to social justice and intellectual awakening From the glorious tradition of knowledge at Nalanda and Vikramshila to the freedom struggle and the Emergency period Bihar has made invaluable contributions to nationbuilding in every era Today Bihar is creating new benchmarks of progress and advancement by preserving its vast heritage and traditions Heartfelt greetings of Bihar Day to all sisters and brothers of BiharâUnion Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan extended his wishes stating âHeartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all the residents of Bihar on the Foundation Day of Bihar state the land blessed with a rich culture glorious history spirituality and revolutionary fervour and the birthplace of great ascetics and noble soulsâBihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also greeted the people and called for collective efforts toward development He said âHeartfelt congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of Bihar Day Biharâs history has been glorious and at present we are shaping a glorious future for Bihar through our determination I call upon all of you to fulfil the resolve for a prosperous Bihar Together we will take Biharâs pride to new heightsâUttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also extended his wishes stating âHeartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all the residents of Bihar on the Foundation Day of Bihar the land of revolution enriched with popular faith and cultural splendour Under the illustrious guidance of the Honâble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji and the able leadership of the Honâble Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar Ji may the state of Bihar progressing on the path of good governance establish new benchmarks of prosperity and allround development this is the prayer to Mother Janaki and Lord Shri RamâOn March 22 1912 Bihar was carved out of the Bengal Presidency marking the beginning of its distinct identityWith over a century of history the state is celebrating its 114th Foundation Day this year Over the course of its remarkable journey Bihar has produced numerous eminent personalities who have left an indelible mark in diverse fields including politics literature sports and business earning recognition and respect both nationally and globally IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/best-wishes-for-golden-future-prez-murmu-pm-modi-on-bihar-diwas-665913.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 10:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/puducherry-polls-as-dmk-cong-seat-sharing-talks-remain-deadlocked-chidambaram-to-meet-cm-stalin-665926.html Puducherry March 22 With just a day remaining for filing nominations in Puducherry senior Congress leader P Chidambaram is set to meet Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Sunday in a crucial lastminute effort to revive the stalled DMKCongress alliance talks The highstakes meeting comes amid mounting uncertainty over seatsharing arrangements ahead of the April 9 Assembly electionNegotiations between the two parties have hit a roadblock despite several rounds of discussionsAccording to sources the Congress party is keen to contest 17 of the 30 Assembly seats and has informally proposed allocating 11 seats to the DMK while offering one seat each to the VCK and the CPIHowever the DMK is said to be pushing for a more balanced formula reportedly seeking an equal share of seats which has led to the current impasse Efforts to resolve the issue on Saturday failed to yield any breakthroughA DMK delegation led by MP Jagadrakshakan waited for several hours at a private hotel expecting Congress representatives to arrive for discussions Despite waiting for nearly 12 hours the Congress team did not turn up prompting the DMK leaders to return to ChennaiJagadrakshakan later maintained that the DMK is still interested in continuing its alliance with the Congress in Puducherry However parallel developments suggested a widening communication gap between the two partiesA separate meeting reportedly convened under the leadership of Congress functionary Girish Chodankar did not see participation from DMK representativesWith time running out the DMK leadership is now weighing its options Jagadrakshakan is expected to brief CM Stalin on the latest developments including whether to make a final attempt to reach an agreement with the Congress or explore alternative alliancesPolitical observers say the outcome of the ChidambaramStalin meeting could be decisive in shaping the electoral dynamics in Puducherry as both parties race against time to finalise their strategies before the nomination deadline IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/puducherry-polls-as-dmk-cong-seat-sharing-talks-remain-deadlocked-chidambaram-to-meet-cm-stalin-665926.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 12:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/amid-internal-rift-congress-announces-candidates-for-karnataka-bypolls-665945.html Bengaluru March 22 The Congress party on Sunday finally announced its candidates for the byelections to two Assembly segments in Karnataka despite an ongoing intense internal conflict In an official statement party General Secretary and MP KC Venugopal announced the names of Umesh Meti and Samarth Mallikarjun for the Bagalkot and Davanagere South constituencies respectivelyBoth seats were previously held by the CongressThe Bagalkot seat was represented by senior leader and former Minister HY Meti a staunch follower of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Davanagere South was held by veteran Congress leader the late Shamanur ShivashankarappaThe party has fielded the son of late HY Meti in Bagalkot and the grandson of Shamanur Shivashankarappa in Davanagere South Due to stiff competition among aspirants in both constituencies the party leadership took time to finalise and announce the candidatesThe official statement said The Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge approved the proposal for candidaturesFor the Bagalkot seat the daughters and son of HY Meti were among the aspirants along with several other prominent leaders In Davanagere South Muslim leaders in the state had strongly urged the high command to field a candidate from the minority community citing the presence of more than 85000 voters from the communityIn both seats the party chose to field family members of the leader who had previously represented the seats Senior leaders including Karnataka incharge Randeep Singh Surjewala visited Bengaluru and held a lengthy meeting with party leaders to resolve differencesSources stated that finalising the Davanagere South candidate was particularly challenging as Minister for Housing and Waqf Zameer Ahmad Khan had reportedly threatened to resign if the ticket was not given to a candidate from the minority communityHowever sources added that Randeep Singh Surjewala warned Zameer Ahmad Khan against pressuring the party leadership and went ahead with the decision to field Samarth Mallikarjun Surjewala also expressed displeasure over Samarth Mallikarjun submitting his nomination before the official announcement reportedly as a pressure tacticSources further stated that considering the late Shamanur Shivashankarappaâs role as President of the Akhila Bharata Veerashaiva Mahasabha and his contribution to building the party in central Karnataka the party decided to field his grandsonIt remains to be seen how the party will assuage local minority leaders who have openly stated that if a candidate from their community is not fielded they would work to ensure the Congress partyâs defeatThe BJP had announced its candidates earlier and they have already filed their nominations for both seatsExpelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal alleged that former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa and his son state party president BY Vijayendra have an internal understanding with the late Shamanur Shivashankarappaâs family and deliberately fielded a weak candidate to aid Samarth Mallikarjunâs victory Vijayendra denied the allegation dismissing it as baseless and stating that the party has chosen its candidates carefullyPolling for the two seats will be held on April 9 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/amid-internal-rift-congress-announces-candidates-for-karnataka-bypolls-665945.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 14:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/up-1-228-nursing-officers-get-appointment-letters-1-097-are-women-665952.html Lucknow March 22 IANS Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday distributed appointment letters to 1228 newly selected nursing officers highlighting the state governments resolve to strengthen the healthcare system and also its commitment to give wings to the dreams of thousands of medical aspirantsnbspInterestingly a whopping 1097 nursing officers out of 1228 are women and the remaining 131 are maleAddressing the gathering after handing over appointment letters the Chief Minister said this was a step towards womens empowerment during the sacred Chaitra NavratriCM Yogi said that the newly appointed nursing officers will now not only shape their own future but also go to write a new chapter of trust and empathy in the states health servicesIn a pointed reference to women candidates accounting for a lions share in the appointment he said It is a matter of immense pride for us that out of a total of 1228 candidates 1097 are women In the developmental journey of the past nine years the doubleengine governments efforts to elevate the respect security and dignity of maternal power to new heights find direct expression in this numberThe Chief Minister also interacted with a couple of newly appointees brimming with joy and excitement over their new journey of lifeHe went to elaborate about double engine governments efforts in diverse sectors for increasing employment opportunities bridging the gaps in economic and social sectors and also how the healthcare system in particular was improving in the stateThirtyfive ANM training centers which had ceased operations have been restarted Construction work is currently underway for 35 new nursing colleges The doubleengine government has prioritised healthcare and the positive outcomes of this approach are now evident to everyone he saidA significant decline has been observed in both the maternal mortality rate and the infant mortality rate In this regard Uttar Pradesh is now standing on par with the national average he informedTaking shot at the previous governments CM Yogi remarked that in the past every government department was controlled by a specific mafiaThe functioning of each department was dictated by the mafia elements Now the state has moved beyond the era of mafia dominance and has instead advanced towards the One District One Medical College initiative A medical college and a nursing college have now been established in every district CM Yogi remarkedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/up-1-228-nursing-officers-get-appointment-letters-1-097-are-women-665952.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 16:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-mla-loses-rs-12-lakh-in-online-fraud-665955.html Amaravati March 22 A member of the Andhra Pradesh Assembly has lost Rs 12 lakh in an online fraud police said Cybercriminals allegedly duped Chirri Balaraju the MLA from PolavaramThe legislator belonging to Jana Sea Party JSP received a WhatsApp message containing a link in the name of a Road Transport Authority RTA challanThe amount was reportedly withdrawn from his bank account after he clicked on the link On realising that he had fallen victim to cyber fraud the MLA lodged a complaint with the policeA case has been registered at Jeelugumilli Police Station Police said the investigation is underway to trace the accused and recover the amountThis is not the first case of an MLA of Andhra Pradesh falling victim to cybercrimeIn October last year an MLA of the Telugu Desam Party TDP had lost Rs 107 crore in an alleged digital arrest caseCybercriminals impersonating Mumbai cybercrime officials conned Putta Sudhakar Yadav the MLA from Mydukur in YSR Kadapa districtThe legislator residing in Hyderabad had lodged a complaint with Hyderabad cybercrime police after realising that he had been dupedThe fraudsters had threatened to arrest the MLA in a fabricated case of money laundering and human trafficking They forced him to transfer the money under the pretext of securing a provisional bailThe cybercriminals had informed the MLA that the Mumbai cybercrime police had registered an FIR against him for money laundering based on 17 complaints alleging misuse of his Aadhaar and SIM card to open a bank account in his nameAccording to the MLA a fraudster posing as a cybercrime investigation officer had even joined a WhatsApp video call displaying a forged arrest warrant and a CBI account freeze order After the MLA was threatened with arrest he transferred Rs 107 crore through nine transactions in a week to secure a provisional bailWhen the scammers demanded another Rs 60 lakh for a court clearance order the MLA realised that he had been conned and approached the police IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-mla-loses-rs-12-lakh-in-online-fraud-665955.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 16:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/fairpoint-dhurandhar-isnt-just-cinema-its-indias-long-suppressed-anger-speaking-out-665958.html New Delhi March 22 Dhurandhar is not the kind of film you watch and move on from It lingers It provokes And more importantly it says something which a majority of Indians have felt for years but were rarely encouraged to articulate openly At its core the film taps into a sentiment that has existed for decades that Pakistans continued use of terrorism as state policy cannot be met with halfmeasures diplomatic niceties or intellectual hedging The urge to see its institutions ISI military establishment held accountable crushed and rendered incapable of bleeding India any further is not fringe sentiment It is mainstream real and Dhurandhar is the voiceSomewhere along the way a certain version of secularism took root one that often translated into silence on uncomfortable issues Speaking plainly about terrorism religious fault lines or historical grievances was quickly labelled as regressive or worse The result was a kind of selfcensorship where outrage had to be moderated and facts carefully packaged This didnt happen overnight It was built over decadesWhether it was the hesitation in addressing longpending issues like Ayodhya Kashi or Krishna Janmabhoomi or the discomfort in acknowledging targeted violence the pattern was visible Even policylevel statements like former Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs 2006 remark about the Muslim minority having the first claim on resources reinforced a perception of selective prioritisationAnd in that space of hesitation Pakistan found confidence From crossborder terrorism to covert destabilisation its strategy remained consistent What also remained consistent was Indias tendency to respond cautiously not just on the ground but in the narrative space also There were always voices ready to contextualise to explain away or to urge restraint even when the provocation was undeniableThis is precisely the space Dhurandhar walks into and disruptsThe film doesnt pretend to be neutral It doesnt try to balance outrage with diplomatic correctness Instead it leans into a sentiment that has been building quietlyIt also calls out quite directly the ecosystem that shaped public discourse for years one that often found moral complexity where many saw none The same ecosystem that mobilised outrage in selective cases for instance on Afzal Guru and Yakub Memon but remained conspicuously muted when it came to victims of terrorismIt is this films power that lies in its refusal to sanitise this reality It does not pretend that anger is illegitimate It does not dilute the brutality of terrorism Instead it channels a sentiment that has long existed beneath the surface the desire for accountability for clarity and yes for retributionAnd this is where Aditya Dhars voice becomes significant Discomfort to some is definitely there because Dhurandhar does not shy away from anythingThere is also a personal layer to all of thisAditya Dhars background as a Kashmiri Pandit is not incidental to his storytelling His communitys experience since the late 1980s marked by violence fear and the eventual exodus from the Valley remains one of the most underdiscussed chapters in Indias recent history For years that story existed on the margins Acknowledged but not fully confrontedDhars films from Uri The Surgical Strike to Article 370 and now Dhurandhar series seem to be part of an attempt to bring those narratives back into the mainstream Not subtly not cautiously but directly Predictably critics have labelled this as propagandaBut that raises a fair question when one set of narratives dominates for decades it is called balance When another perspective emerges especially one that is blunt and uncomfortable it is quickly dismissedPerhaps the real issue is not the film itself but the fact that it refuses to stay within familiar boundariesDhurandhar also reminds us of the legacy of RN Kao the architect of Indias external intelligence agency Research amp Analysis Wing RAW Within a few years of its creation it played a decisive role in the events leading to Bangladeshs liberation in 1971 a moment when India combined strategy with resolve Dhaka may have forgotten the struggle today but they owe it to him Pakistan despised Kao and blamed the Kashmiri Pandits for its 1971 debacleIt is said that Islamabad always wanted revenge on the community and it was executed in the late 1980s when its terrorists targeted Kashmiri Pandits abducting torturing and killing many men including leaders doctors engineers businessmen teachers government employees judges and lawyers by labelling them as Indian Intelligence Bureau agentsMany critics are claiming that the movie is propaganda but those who have suffered directly or indirectly from terrorism know that it is true Dhurandhar is the truth that has been kept under wraps for decades especially after terrorism in Punjab and KashmirDhurandhar doesnt claim to be subtle and maybe thats the point It reflects a shift especially among younger Indians towards questioning older narratives and asking uncomfortable questions Why were certain truths downplayed Why were some tragedies pushed aside And why was anger even when justified treated as something illegitimateBecause anger when it comes from repeated provocation and unresolved history doesnt simply disappear It buildsAnd sometimes it finds expression not in policy papers or debates but in cinema Dhurandhar is that expression And it showcases what a government and its system can do provided the leadership is strong and clear in thoughts and actionsDeepika Bhan can be contacted at deepikabiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/fairpoint-dhurandhar-isnt-just-cinema-its-indias-long-suppressed-anger-speaking-out-665958.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 17:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/canada-advised-to-act-firmly-against-khalistani-extremist-activities-665959.html New Delhi March 22 Canada is facing fresh calls to take firm action against Khalistani extremist elements operating from its soil amid concerns that separatist networks continue to use the country as a base for antiIndia activities The issue has remained a persistent irritant in ties between India and Canada with New Delhi repeatedly raising concerns about proKhalistan groups organising events spreading propaganda and targeting Indian diplomatic missionsAn opinion piece published by Khalsa Vox argued that Ottawa can no longer ignore the activities of extremist elements advocating the creation of Khalistan and must move decisively against networks promoting violence and intimidationThe commentary said the problem is not about restricting legitimate political expression but about confronting individuals and organisations that glorify violence issue threats and attempt to radicalise sections of the diasporaIt noted that extremist rhetoric and campaigns directed at Indian diplomats and institutions have continued in recent years raising questions about the effectiveness of Canadaâs response to such activitiesThe article also emphasised that the vast majority of Sikhs living in Canada do not support separatist extremism and that conflating the broader community with fringe elements would be both inaccurate and harmfulAccording to the commentary failure to act against extremist groups risks allowing them to exploit democratic freedoms to promote divisive and violent agendas while damaging bilateral tiesIndia has on several occasions conveyed its concerns over the activities of proKhalistan organisations abroad urging Canadian authorities to take stronger action against groups and individuals linked to separatist propaganda and violenceThe opinion piece argued that decisive steps against extremist networks would not only help protect democratic institutions but could also contribute to rebuilding trust in relations between India and CanadaIt added that addressing the issue firmly would send a clear signal that advocacy of violence and intimidation has no place in democratic societies IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/canada-advised-to-act-firmly-against-khalistani-extremist-activities-665959.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 17:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-pradesh-cm-congratulates-pm-modi-for-extraordinary-achievement-665974.html Amaravati March 22 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on becoming the longestserving head of the government The national president of Telugu Desam Party TDP took to X to congratulate the Prime Minister and expressed his best wishesâHeartiest congratulations to Honâble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji on achieving the historic milestone of becoming the longestserving head of government in Indiaâs history completing 8931 days in service to the nation This extraordinary achievement reflects his dedication visionary leadership and tireless commitment to the progress and prosperity of our countryâ said Chandrababu Naidu whose party is a key partner in the BJPled NDA government at the CentreâHis vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 continues to inspire us all and guide India toward a brighter future Wishing him continued strength good health and success as he leads the nation to even greater heightsâ the Chief Minister addedNara Lokesh Andhra Pradesh minister for human resources development and information technology also congratulated Prime Minister Modi on completing 8931 days in office to become the longestserving head of the government in Indiaâs historyâHonâble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji has become the longestserving head of government in Indiaâs history completing 8931 days in office and setting a new national record This remarkable milestone reflects decades of unwavering commitment to public service and nationbuilding His tireless leadership clarity of vision and focus on Indiaâs growth continue to inspire millions across the country Sir heartfelt congratulations on this historic achievementâ posted Lokesh who is the son of Chandrababu NaiduUnion minister for coal and mines G Kishan Reddy congratulated PM Modi on âcompleting 8931 days of unwavering service to the nation as the head of governmentââThis milestone reflects your tireless commitment towards Jan Seva visionary leadership and dedication to Indias progress and unity Under your guidance India has witnessed transformative growth and strengthened its position on the global stage Wishing you continued strength and success in your service to the nationâ Kishan Reddy posted on X IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/andhra-pradesh-cm-congratulates-pm-modi-for-extraordinary-achievement-665974.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 22:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-road-to-infinity-in-kutch-near-completion-to-pave-new-path-for-development-665976.html Kutch March 22 The Khadir Bet region of Kutch in Gujarat is undergoing a major overhaul in terms of road transport and connectivity The 22kilometrelong road is in the final stages of construction and may soon be opened for the public Once built it will cut across the white desert and the sea stretching from Ekal to BambhankaModelled after Kutchâs âRoad to Heavenâ and built at a cost ofRs 140 crore this âRoad to Infinityâ will benefit a population of over 12000 across 12 villages in Khadir Bet ushering in a new era of developmentPreviously residents of the area had to travel over 150 kilometres to reach Bhachau Taluka headquarters however this distance will now be reduced to a mere 75 to 80 kilometresMany local residents are happy and overjoyed over the developmentA local resident Hardeep Singh Jadeja said There are 11 villages located in this Khadir region Previously one had to cover a distance of 180 kms to travel to Rapar or Bhachau With the construction of this road the distance has now been reduced to 70 kilometres This will result in significant savings of both time and fuel during commutingLocated along this very road is Kutchâs historic Hanuman Bet â shaped like a tortoise â home to the ancient Raneshwar Hanuman TempleFurthermore this road passes in close proximity to Asiaâs largest flamingo breeding ground famously known as âFlamingo CityâThis will not only facilitate devotees travelling from distant places to reach Raneshwar Hanuman Temple but will also enable tourists to witness the migratory flamingos that flock to the region in large numbers during the winter seasonMahant Yogi Devnath of the Raneshwar Hanuman Temple remarked that the construction of the EkalBambhanka road will give a significant impetus to tourism and drive the overall progress of the Khadir Bet region Furthermore this route will assist the Army in reaching the border more quicklyTourist Anees Sheikh remarked that the migratory birds visit this areaWe come here specifically to observe them Previously we had to undertake a journey of 300 kilometres to reach this spot now that distance has been reduced to a mere 150 kilometresâ he saidThe Road to Infinity is poised to not only accelerate the socioeconomic development of the residents of Khadir Bet but also provide tourists with an alternative route to access the archaeological site of DholaviraIqbal Topiwala Executive Engineer of the Bhuj District Panchayat stated that residents of Khadir Bet and its surrounding areas frequently have to travel to Bhachau Taluka for workrelated purposesWhile the Road to Heaven already existed the addition of the Road to Infinity will ensure even greater ease of access for visitors travelling to the archaeological site of Dholavira in Khadir BetThe Road to Infinity will prove instrumental in enabling the people of Khadir Bet because this will enable them to have what they have been demanding for over five decades IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-road-to-infinity-in-kutch-near-completion-to-pave-new-path-for-development-665976.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 22:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/we-are-building-amaravati-to-surpass-hyderabad-chandrababu-naidu-665979.html Hyderabad March 22 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday said that Amaravati would be developed to surpass Hyderabad He said the coalition government in Andhra Pradesh was rebuilding Amaravati after five years of neglect âAmaravati is poised to emerge as a capital city that surpasses even Hyderabadâ he saidNaidu said by integrating technology the government is undertaking the construction of a âSmart City and a BlueGreen capital cityThe Chief Minister was addressing the South Asian Learning Summit 2026Transforming AI at the Indian School of Business ISB hereChandrababu Naidu recalled the initiatives he had taken as the Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh between 1995 and 2004 for the development of Hyderabad as the IT hub âI visualised what the future is I thought the knowledge economy was the future and that was the decision in 1995 We had so many problems I built brick by brick I had several meetings brainstorming sessions with industrialists and academiciansâ he said recalling his meeting with Bill Gates which helped attract Microsoft to HyderabadâWe constructed the Cyber Towers as a symbolic landmark for the IT revolution This decision was driven solely by the objective of benefiting the public Microsoft chose to establish its presence in Hyderabad bypassing cities like Bengaluru and Chennai For three decades now we have been witnessing the tangible results of those initiatives As part of this broader vision we also secured the establishment of the Indian School of Business ISBâ he saidNaidu noted that ISB has earned a stellar reputation as an exceptional business school The Genome Valley project also came into existence through a similar processâIt is precisely because of the decisions taken back then that both Telugu states currently hold the number one position in the pharmaceutical sector During the COVID19 pandemic Hyderabads Genome Valley supplied vaccines to the entire worldâ he saidâThe ecosystem of Hyderabad emerged as a result of the reforms introduced in the past across sectors such as IT pharmaceuticals and infrastructure Hyderabad evolved into one of the most livable cities in the world This did not happen overnight rather a combination of factorsâranging from earlymorning inspections to various policy decisionsâpaved the way for this transformationâ he addedNaidu stated that although Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated into two separate states due to political reasons the decisions taken in the past have successfully boosted the per capita income of the Telugu peopleâBy the time we returned to power in Andhra Pradesh in 2024 the entire state had been left in ruins The states brand image was tarnished and its institutional frameworks were completely dismantledâ he said and claimed that the coalition government took several steps to put the state back on the path of progressThe Chief Minister claimed that Andhra Pradesh now stands at the forefront in attracting investmentsRealising that future technologies will revolve around fields such as Quantum Computing Artificial Intelligence and Drones the state government embarked on establishing dedicated hubs for Space Electronics and Drone technologies he saidThe government also started focusing on Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia which are set to dominate the energy landscape With sustainable power generation there will be no need to increase electricity tariffs in the future he saidHe stated that Andhra Pradesh is poised to lead the entire South Indian region in the production of green energy IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/we-are-building-amaravati-to-surpass-hyderabad-chandrababu-naidu-665979.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 22:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/jammu-and-kashmir-lok-bhavan-celebrates-bihar-diwas-665980.html Jammu March 22 The Jammu and Kashmir Lok Bhavan on Sunday celebrated Bihar Diwas to pay tribute to great revolutionaries and towering personalities from Bihar An official statement said that Jammu and Kashmir Lok Bhavan today hosted a vibrant celebration of Bihar Diwas at Jammu Celebrating the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat the cultural evening brought together senior Government officials students and the people of Bihar living in the UT of Jammu KashmirLt Governor Manoj Sinha extended his heartiest greetings and best wishes to the people of Bihar on the occasionHe paid tributes to the great revolutionaries and towering personalities from Bihar and recalled their valuable contributions to nations growth and building of a modern IndiaLt Governor highlighted that from the era of Chandragupta Maurya and Chanakya to the independence movement Bihar has remained the shield of the nation and an epicenter of Indiaâs unity and spiritual cultural intellectual and economic lifeâBihar has carved a distinct identity as the heartland of the Magadha Empire Today under the leadership of Honâble Prime Minister Narendra Modi the state is reclaiming its ancient glory and emerging once again as a key driver of comprehensive development and innovationâ Lt Governor Manoj Sinha saidThe Lt Governor also spoke on Biharâs unprecedented contributions to Indiaâs industrial and educational landscape and its profound influence on architecture music art and literary traditionsâI pray that this blessed land of rich cultural diversity glorious historical heritage and knowledge and spirituality continues to advance on the path of progressâ Manoj Sinha saidJammu and Kashmir has been hosting cultural events to commemorate the foundation day of Kerala Chhattisgarh Madhya Pradesh Haryana Punjab Karnataka Tamil Nadu Andhra Pradesh Chandigarh Puducherry Delhi Lakshadweep Andaman and Nicobar IslandsThe LG has said that the observance of the foundation day of different states and UTs is an occasion to celebrate the unity in diversity of our great nation and to strengthen the fabric of traditionally existing emotional bonds between the people IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/jammu-and-kashmir-lok-bhavan-celebrates-bihar-diwas-665980.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 22:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/trump-labels-democrats-greatest-enemy-in-truth-social-post-665982.html Washington March 22 US President Donald Trump on Sunday called the Democratic Party âthe greatest enemy America hasâ in a post on his Truth Social platform âNow with the death of Iran the greatest enemy America has is the Radical Left Highly Incompetent Democrat Partyâ Trump wrote on Truth SocialHis remarks came amid rising tensions linked to Iran and a prolonged political standoff in WashingtonTrump did not explain what he meant by the âdeath of Iranâ The phrase appeared to be linked to recent developments involving Iran which have dominated the administrationâs foreign policy focusThe post also came as a partial government shutdown stretched beyond one monthDemocrats have urged lawmakers to reduce the scale of the funding lapse at the Department of Homeland Security At the same time they have kept focus on Immigration and Customs Enforcement ICE a key agency in Trumpâs immigration crackdownThe shutdown has exposed deep divisions between Republicans and Democrats over spending and immigration policyTrump did not refer directly to the shutdown in his post but he used strong language to attack his political opponentsHe described the Democrats as the âRadical Leftâ and âHighly Incompetentâ The language is similar to his past attacks on Democratic leadersThe remarks are likely to deepen partisan tensions Lawmakers from both parties are under pressure to reach a deal and end the shutdownSo far there is no clear sign of a breakthroughTrump has often used his Truth Social platform to speak directly to supporters He frequently uses it to criticise political rivals and shape public debateHis latest post links foreign policy developments with domestic politics reflecting his broader approach of framing opponents as a key threat IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/trump-labels-democrats-greatest-enemy-in-truth-social-post-665982.html Sun, 22 Mar 2026 23:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/leaders-extend-eid-ul-fitr-greetings-emphasise-unity-harmony-665856.html New Delhi March 21 Several political leaders on Saturday extended greetings on the occasion of EidulFitr highlighting the spirit of unity harmony and brotherhood associated with the festival In Sambhal Uttar Pradesh Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq arrived at the Eidgah to offer Eid prayers along with devoteesIn Lucknow Uttar Pradesh Minister Danish Azad Ansari said âToday is Eid a very important festival for the Muslim community We all offered prayers here peacefully and prayers are being held across the country including in Uttar PradeshâIn Delhi BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi offered prayers at Imamia Hall on the occasion He extended his wishes saying âHeartfelt greetings to all citizens of the country and to people around the world We pray that the devastation of war and the spread of crises come to an end and that the world is freed from themâIn Patna Bihar JDU leader Nishant Kumar conveyed greetings on behalf of himself and his father Chief Minister Nitish Kumar He said âI extend heartfelt Eid greetings and best wishes to all citizens of the country and the people of BiharâMinister Ashok Chaudhary also emphasised communal harmony stating âJust as we celebrate festivals like Holi and Diwali in the same way we celebrate Eid and Bakrid We respect all religionsâIn Mumbai AIMIM spokesperson Waris Pathan and Congress State President Ajay Rai also extended Eid greetings stressing unity happiness and brotherhoodThe festival of EidulFitr which signifies the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan is being observed by Muslims across the globe including India with prayers feasts and gatheringsHowever celebrations in parts of West Asia remain muted this year due to the ongoing conflict casting a shadow over the festive spirit Several countries have announced extended public holidays of up to four days to mark the occasionRamadan the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar is considered one of the most sacred periods in Islam It commemorates the revelation of the Holy Book the Quran to Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel During this month Muslims observe fasting from dawn to dusk engage in increased prayer and focus on spiritual reflection and selfdisciplineEidulFitr often referred to as the âfestival of breaking the fastâ marks the end of this monthlong period of devotion and fasting The festival falls on the first day of Shawwal the tenth month of the Islamic calendar following the sighting of the crescent moon Due to the lunar nature of the calendar and varying weather conditions the exact date of Eid may differ across regions IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/leaders-extend-eid-ul-fitr-greetings-emphasise-unity-harmony-665856.html Sat, 21 Mar 2026 11:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-vijayan-sudhakaran-row-escalates-over-disputed-missed-calls-claim-665859.html Alappuzha Kerala March 21 A fresh political controversy has erupted in Kerala after Congressled UDFbacked Independent candidate from Ambalappuzha and former CPIM leader G Sudhakaran publicly contradicted Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan over claims of outreach triggering a war of words ahead of the Assembly polls Sudhakaran maintained that the Chief Minister never called him asserting that Vijayanâs number is saved on his phone under the name âCMâ and that no call was receivedThe veteran fourtime CPIM legislator and former Cabinet Minister said that nearly two weeks before Vijayanâs claim the Chief Minister had expressed a desire to meet him during a visit to Alappuzha but no followup communication took placeSudhakarans rebuttal comes after Vijayan in an interview stated that he had attempted to contact Sudhakaran three times Rejecting allegations of sidelining the senior leader the Chief Minister said Sudhakaranâs sense of neglect was a personal perceptionDetailing his version Vijayan said the first call was met with an engaged tone while the next two went unanswered âAfter the third attempt it appeared he was deliberately avoiding the callsâ he said adding that he later reached out to district secretary Nasser to facilitate communicationLeader of Opposition VD Satheesan weighed in saying he was inclined to believe Sudhakaran âFor long even when we were on opposite sides we have always held him in high regard I will believe what he has saidâ Satheesan remarkedVijayan also sought to contextualise Sudhakaranâs exit from key roles stressing that changes in positions are based on general criteria including age limits and should not be construed as marginalisation He described Sudhakaran as one of the partyâs most respected leaders He said he had been given due consideration at every stage including organisational support in Alappuzha and dedicated facilities at the party officeWith both leaders sticking to their claims the episode has added a new layer of intrigue to the evolving electoral battle in KeralaSudhakaran is set to file his nomination on Saturday and will take part in a roadshow after the filingThe CPIM is also facing unprecedented internal dissent with former legislators Aiya S Potti and PK Sasi joining the Congress and contesting against Left candidates In Kannur district veteran party workers V Kunjikrishnan Payyannur and TP Govindan Taliparamba are contesting with UDF support while threetime former CPIM legislator S Rajendran is the BJP candidate from Devikulam in Idukki district IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-vijayan-sudhakaran-row-escalates-over-disputed-missed-calls-claim-665859.html Sat, 21 Mar 2026 11:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bruised-on-all-fronts-asim-munir-eyes-sectarian-flashpoint-in-pakistan-665872.html New Delhi March 21 Pakistan is in need of multiple diversions as it faces setbacks on multiple fronts The war in Afghanistan and the battle with the Balochistan Liberation Army BLA and TehreekeTaliban Pakistan TTP has left the security apparatus in Pakistan badly bruised The pressure on Field Marshal Asim Munir who is the head of the army is immense and he is in need of a major diversion Indian agencies tracking the developments in Pakistan say that Munirâs next move is to incite violence between the Sunnis and ShiasThe army chief is following in the footsteps of General ZiaulHaq who ran a major campaign to suppress the Shias in PakistanSince the beginning of the war in Iran the Shias have been targeted in Pakistan The rallies carried out in solidarity for Iran are being branded as antinational and antiSunniAsim Munir during a recent event humiliated the Shia Muslims and said that if they love Iran so much they should go to IranThis is a clear attempt at inciting tensions and hoping that the Shias would indulge in violence This in turn would lead to a major escalation of violence between the Shia and majority Sunni Muslim population in PakistanAnother official said that this latest ploy by Asim Munir is clearly aimed at dividing the population Hostilities between the Shias and Sunnis in Pakistan is nothing new However to stoke tensions at a time when the war in Iran is on is a dangerous game by the Pakistan army chiefThe Shia community has expressed shock following the triviality with which Asim Munir spoke about the communityPakistan watchers say that there are multiple reasons why the army chief has raked up the Shia issue again He has been doing this subtly for long but currently he has taken it to another level Munir is clearly trying to further the rift by painting a picture that the Shias have their loyalties elsewhereThe Shias have been trying to remind the army chief that their loyalties are not elsewhere and they would not go against their countryExpressing solidarity with Iran is not a crime and Munir is wrong in terming this as an act that is antinational the Shias sayOfficials say that the Pakistan army chief could not care less about the sentiments of the Shia community He is caught between the devil and the deep sea and all he wants is a diversion even if it meant that his country burns due to a communal conflictMunir is fed up of explaining to the people about the need for battles on multiple fronts especially when the economy of the country is dying with each passing dayFurther the war in Iran prompted the Pakistani establishment to take several austerity measures that included a hike in fuel prices All these measures are not helping and is having a bad impact on the common man officials sayWhile the internal strife is one part of the reason why Munir is trying to incite the Shias against the Sunnis the other remains the Saudi Arabia angleQuestions are being asked about Pakistanâs commitment to the pact by which it has to join the war if Saudi Arabia is being attacked The pact between the two countries says that an attack on either countries would be considered as an attack on bothIn the ongoing war Saudi Arabia has been targeted many times by missiles from Iran Officials say that the fact is that Pakistan may have signed the pact but in reality it does not have the bandwidth or resources to join the warThe Shias have been very vocal about their support for Iran since the war commenced This has not gone down too well with Saudi Arabia as the country views Iran as an enemyMunir is under pressure to shut down these voices and that explains the reason why he is desperate for an outbreak of violence between the Shia and Sunni Muslims in Pakistan IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bruised-on-all-fronts-asim-munir-eyes-sectarian-flashpoint-in-pakistan-665872.html Sat, 21 Mar 2026 12:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cat-is-out-of-the-bag-venugopal-alleges-bjp-cpi-665874.html Thiruvananthapuram March 21 AICC general secretary and Alappuzha MP KC Venugopal on Saturday stepped up his attack on the BJP and the CPIM in Kerala alleging a âsecret pactâ between the two parties as Palakkad emerging as a key flashpoint âNow the cat is out of the bagâ Venugopal said pointing to the CPIMâs decision to field a Leftbacked Independent candidate noted hotelier NMR Razaq as clear evidence of a covert understanding with the BJPHe maintained that this was not an isolated case âThis is not just in Palakkad such an arrangement exists in a few other constituencies as wellâ he saidEchoing similar charges Congress candidate popular actor and stage artiste Ramesh Pisharody termed the alleged BJPCPIM nexus an âopen secretâ He said the understanding was visible beyond Palakkad tooPisharody added that he would not bring his film industry friends for campaigning saying he did not want to expose them to cyberattacksHe also expressed confidence that the controversy surrounding Rahul Mamkootathil would not impact the electoral outcomePalakkad has turned into one of the most closely watched contests featuring a highprofile triangular fight Besides Pisharody the fray includes BJPâs firebrand leader Sobha Surendran and CPIMâs surprise pick Razaq known as much for his business acumen as for his popular biryani venturesResponding to the allegations Shobha Surendran who is returning to the constituency after finishing second in 2016 dismissed the charges as a sign of Congress anxiety âIt appears that the Congress and its leadership have now accepted that they are losing and we are winningâ she saidLeader of the Opposition VDSatheesan on Saturday said things are now emerging of this secret pact and itâs there in Palakkad and 10 other constituencies and this is going to be mutual tooâWhen the CPIM helps the BJP the BJP also helps the CPIM and Chengannur is one example of thisâ said Satheesan IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cat-is-out-of-the-bag-venugopal-alleges-bjp-cpi-665874.html Sat, 21 Mar 2026 12:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/threat-to-energy-security-part-of-present-day-warfare-rajnath-singh-665893.html New Delhi March 21 IANS Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday that presentday warfare transcends borders with national security encompassing economic digital energy and even food securitynbspVirtually addressing the Raising Day celebrations and the Diamond Jubilee of Sainik School Ghorakhal in Uttarakhand the Defence Minister said that the nature of conflicts has undergone a paradigm shift as a nation can today be weakened through economic cyber space and information warfare which demands every citizen to remain vigilant and prepared at all timesHe underscored the need for a robust military supported by prepared citizens capable of standing shouldertoshoulder to protect the nation under any circumstancesRajnath Singh said that while the Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leaving no stone unturned to equip the defence forces with niche weapons and technologies the citizens especially the youth need to develop mental toughness and intellectual clarity through disciplineHighlighting the need for determination to help the nation tackle any and every situation he referred to the concept of VUCA Volatile Uncertain Complex and Ambiguous challenges and exhorted students to develop their own version of VUCA Vision Understanding Courage and Adaptability to navigate modern challengesHighlighting the steps taken by the government towards ensuring that a larger number of youth imbibe the values essential for nationbuilding Rajnath Singh stated that recently a decision was taken to establish 100 new Sainik Schools across the country in the PublicPrivate Partnership modelHe added that another initiative includes increasing the number of vacancies within the National Cadet Corps NCC Earlier the NCC had an intake capacity of 17 lakh cadets this has now been expanded to 20 lakh he saidThe Defence Minister described the decision of admission of girls into Sainik Schools as historic and revolutionary which is bolstering the countrys Nari ShaktiThese girls will in the times to come become the torchbearers of Nari Shakti and scale new heights across various sectors he saidExtending his greetings to students faculty alumni and their families at Sainik School Ghorakhal completing 60 years of dedicated service to the nation Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that the students will continue to uphold the highest standards of discipline and dedication bringing pride to their families institution and the nationOver the decades the school has sent more than 800 students to the National Defence Academy and over 2000 candidates to the Armed Forces through various entry schemes such as Combined Defence Services Examination and Air Force Common Admission Test he saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/threat-to-energy-security-part-of-present-day-warfare-rajnath-singh-665893.html Sat, 21 Mar 2026 15:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cyber-crime-cases-rising-rapidly-in-india-stronger-coordination-needed-gauhati-hc-judge-665831.html Aizawl March 20 Cyber crime is rapidly increasing in India with more than 86000 cases registered in 2023 Gauhati High Court Judge Justice Nelson Sailo said here on Friday Addressing a oneday training programme on cyber crime Justice Sailo noted that in 2017 the Supreme Court recognised the Right to Privacy as a Fundamental Right under Article 21 of the Indian ConstitutionHe said that following this landmark development Parliament enacted the Digital Personal Data Protection Act DPDP Act in 2023 to safeguard citizens data rights and strengthen privacy protections in the digital eraHighlighting the situation in Mizoram the judge said that 361 cyber crime cases were recorded in the state between 2022 and 2026 with five cases already registered up to March this yearHe added that the most common offences include financial fraud social media impersonation and online sexual harassmentJustice Sailo also advised the public to adopt precautionary measures such as using antivirus software avoiding opening or downloading unknown files and promptly reporting suspicious activities to the policeThe training programme was held at the Gauhati High Court Aizawl Bench Conference Hall and was jointly organised by the Mizoram State Legal Services Authority MSLSA and Mizoram PoliceAnother High Court judge Justice Michael Zothankhuma in his address shared his personal experience as a victim of cyber crime and appreciated the initiative of organising such a relevant training sessionHe said that in todays rapidly evolving and interconnected technological landscape cyber crime has emerged as a global threat transcending geographical boundariesHe noted that laws often take time to adapt to technological advancements creating gaps between emerging crimes and the legal frameworks designed to address themTo bridge this gap and effectively combat cyber crime he emphasised the need for close cooperation among law enforcement agencies the police and the judiciaryJustice Zothankhuma also stressed that public awareness is the first line of defence against cyber crime and encouraged participants to use the knowledge gained from the training to educate societyMizoram Director General of Police Sharad Agarwal also addressed the gathering and said that the rapid rise in cyber crime has posed significant challenges to law enforcement agenciesHe highlighted that modern technologies including Artificial Intelligence AI are increasingly being misused for phishing attacks creating deepfake images and videos stealing passwords and spreading malwareTo tackle such threats Mizoram Police has established a Technical Support Cell and is deploying digital forensic tools to ensure secure analysis of dataDistrict and Sessions Judge Helen Dawngliani in her speech has elaborated on various forms of cyber crimeShe noted that while technological advancements have improved convenience in daily life they have also expanded opportunities for criminal activitiesShe emphasised that preserving the rule of law in the digital domain requires stronger collaboration between the police and the judiciaryFollowing the inaugural session a series of technical sessions were conducted as part of the training programmeThe event was attended by officials from multiple departments including Home Excise and Narcotics Finance and others IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cyber-crime-cases-rising-rapidly-in-india-stronger-coordination-needed-gauhati-hc-judge-665831.html Sat, 21 Mar 2026 07:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/may-mata-chandraghanta-bless-everyone-with-prosperous-life-says-pm-modi-665838.html New Delhi March 21 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended greetings to the countrymen on the third day of Chaitra Navratri dedicated to Goddess Chandraghanta and prayed for a prosperous life for everyone In a post on X PM Modi said I bow to Maa Chandraghanta I pray to Mata to bless everyone with an empowered prosperous and fortunate lifeUnwavering faith in Jagatjanni Maata instils a new consciousness and vigour in her devotees he said in another post while sharing a devotional song Sri Chamundeshwari by P Leela S Govindararajan dedicated to Goddess ChandraghantaUttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also took to social media and extended greetings on the auspicious occasionOn the third day of Chaitra Navratri the sacred festival dedicated to the worship of Mother Jagdamba the presiding deity of divine power may the grace of Mother Chandraghanta remain upon all CM Yogi posted on XIt is my earnest prayer that through the Mothers blessings happiness prosperity and good fortune may dawn in everyones lives and that a spirit of positivity may permeate all he addedOn the third day of Navratri Goddess Durga is worshipped in the form of Mata Chandraghanta depicted with ten arms each holding a weapon a lotus flower or a gesture of blessing Abhaya MudraShe is known for her calm yet strong appearance and is believed to bring peace bravery and success to her devotees The Goddess has a halfmoon on her forehead which is why she is called Chandraghanta She is known for removing difficulties and giving inner strengthDevotees in large numbers thronged temples all over the country People started lining up outside temples early in the morningNavratri which means nine nights in Sanskrit is a Hindu festival celebrating Goddess Durga and her nine avatars known collectively as Navdurga The festival is celebrated with great devotion across India with rituals and prayers honouring the Goddess in her various forms IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/may-mata-chandraghanta-bless-everyone-with-prosperous-life-says-pm-modi-665838.html Sat, 21 Mar 2026 08:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-extends-best-wishes-on-eid-ul-fitr-navroz-665844.html New Delhi March 21 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday conveyed his greetings to citizens on the occasions of EidulFitr and Navroz wishing for peace prosperity and wellbeing for all Taking to the social media platform X the Prime Minister extended warm wishes on EidulFitrBest wishes on EidulFitr May this day further brotherhood and kindness all around May everyone be happy and healthy Eid Mubarak PM Modi saidIn a separate message he also greeted people on Navroz wishing for a year filled with joy success and the fulfilment of aspirationsGreetings on the special occasion of Navroz Praying for a year filled with prosperity and joy May everyone be healthy and may all aspirations be realised Navroz Mubarak PM Modi saidEidulFitr is among the most significant celebrations in Islam and marks the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan During this sacred period Muslims across the globe observe fasting from dawn to dusk engage in prayers and focus on spiritual growth and selfdiscipline The festival begins with the sighting of the moon signalling the start of Shawwal the tenth month of the Islamic calendar and the end of the fasting periodAlthough Eid is officially celebrated for a single day festivities often extend over several days in many regions The occasion is characterised by communal prayers festive meals and social gatherings People visit relatives and friends exchange greetings and share traditional dishes creating an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness In numerous countries EidulFitr is also recognised as a public holiday enabling communities to participate fully in the celebrationsThe term EidulFitr translates to the âfestival of breaking the fastâ symbolising gratitude and joy after completing Ramadan It is a time to reflect on personal growth achieved during the month and to express thankfulness Acts of charity are an essential part of the celebration ensuring that those in need can also partake in the festivities thereby promoting compassion and social unityThe day typically begins with a special congregational prayer held in the morning People prepare by wearing new or traditional attire maintaining personal hygiene and applying fragrance Following the prayers it is customary for individuals to greet one another share meals and exchange gifts reinforcing bonds within families and communitiesMeanwhile Navroz also known as Nowruz is an ancient festival that heralds the arrival of spring and the beginning of the new year in the Persian calendar Celebrated by millions worldwide particularly among Parsis and communities with Persian heritage the festival has roots in Zoroastrian traditions and has been observed for over three millennia It symbolises renewal the rejuvenation of nature and the enduring victory of light over darkness IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-extends-best-wishes-on-eid-ul-fitr-navroz-665844.html Sat, 21 Mar 2026 09:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/president-murmu-arrives-at-goverdhan-parvat-performs-21-km-parikrama-in-golf-cart-665849.html Mathura March 21 President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday performed the 21kilometre Goverdhan Parvat Parikrama in a golf cart becoming the first President to visit the sacred town Goverdhan Parvat has great religious significance as it is associated with Lord Krishna The full circle of Goverdhan is 21 kilometres and the major sites which come during the Parikarma include Danghati Temple Radha Kund Shyam Kund Kusum Sarovar and JatipuraPresident Murmu will also offer prayers at Danghati Temple in Goverdhan in Mathura district of Uttar PradeshOn March 20 President Murmu met revered saint Premanand Maharaj at his Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj Ashram in Vrindavan where she engaged in a spiritual discourse and sought his blessingsThe meeting marked a key highlight of the Presidentâs ongoing threeday visit to Uttar Pradesh during which she has been participating in religious ceremonies and public engagementsArriving at the ashram early in the morning under tight security President Murmu was welcomed by disciples and local leaders before beginning her interaction with Premanand Maharaj a noted teacher of the Radha Vallabh tradition widely followed in the Braj region According to sources their discussion focussed on spiritual values and the role of faith in promoting harmony and societal wellbeingThe visit to the ashram is part of the Presidentâs broader itinerary across Ayodhya Mathura and Vrindavan where she has been offering prayers at prominent temples and sacred sites since her arrival on March 19On Thursday evening she reached Mathura and visited the ISKCON Temple where she participated in the evening aarti She also paid tribute at the samadhi of Swami Prabhupada and offered prayers at the Krishna Balaram and Shyam Sunder shrinesEarlier during the visit President Murmu installed the âShri Ram Yantraâ at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya The ceremony conducted amid Vedic chants by scholars from southern India Kashi and Ayodhya symbolised a significant milestone towards the completion of the templeThe President also inaugurated the new Oncology Block of Ramakrishna Mission Sevashram which is aimed at strengthening cancer care facilities in the region IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/president-murmu-arrives-at-goverdhan-parvat-performs-21-km-parikrama-in-golf-cart-665849.html Sat, 21 Mar 2026 09:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/viksit-delhi2047-delhi-l-g-ts-sandhu-calls-on-pm-modi-665719.html New Delhi March 20 IANS Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu on Friday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharing thoughts of building Viksit Delhi2047 an official saidnbspLG Sandhu sat before the Prime Minister in his office and briefed him about his experience in the Lok Niwas and the steps planned to achieve PM Modis Vision for Viksit Delhi2047 said an official aware of the interactionIn a message on X Sandhu wrote Called on Honble Prime Minister Shri narendramodi Ji earlier todayOn March 13 Sandhu called on President Droupadi Murmu and discussed issues related to the national capitalIn a message on X the LG wrote Honoured to call on Honble President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu ji and receive her guidance for the road ahead Grateful for her encouragementEarlier the LG shared his experience about enjoying the spring blooms in Amrit Udyan on the Rashtrapati Bhavan premisesPosting his photo clicked in the famous lawns of the premises he wrote A lovely walk through the famed gardens of Rashtrapati Bhavan this forenoon Nice to meet many Dilliwalas enjoying the spring bloomsDuring the day the LG also reviewed the security sanitation and health situation with officials After a meeting with Rupesh Kumar Thakur Secretary Health and Prashant Goel Additional Chief Secretary Food and Civil Supplies Sandhu wrote on X Emphasis on preparedness coordination and effective responseThe LG was also greeted by the Delhi Police Commissioner and the Municipal Commissioner during the daySandhu who took over as the new Lieutenant Governor of Delhi on March 11 also brainstormed with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and her Cabinet colleagues earlier this weekHe discussed development and security issues in these meetings with officials The Lok Niwas in a message on social media platform X said The Chief Minister GNCT of Delhi Rekha Gupta accompanied by her Cabinet colleagues met Delhi LG Taranjit Singh Sandhu They apprised the LG of ongoing initiatives towards building a ViksitDilliThe Delhi LG underlined key challenges and opportunities and the collective resolve to develop Delhi as a global capital aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision the Lok Niwas addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/viksit-delhi2047-delhi-l-g-ts-sandhu-calls-on-pm-modi-665719.html Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/aiadmk-to-finalise-seat-sharing-with-bjp-allies-within-four-days-palaniswami-665762.html Chennai March 20 The AIADMK is set to conclude its seatsharing arrangements with the BJP and other National Democratic Alliance NDA partners within the next four days party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami announced on Friday signalling that negotiations are progressing smoothly ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections Speaking to reporters Palaniswami dismissed any speculation of friction within the alliance and expressed confidence that a mutually agreeable formula would soon be reachedâYou will know everything in four days We will finalise and announce the constituencies that have been allottedâ he said adding that discussions were being conducted in a âsmooth and perfectâ mannerThe former Chief Minister emphasised that the guiding principle of the seatsharing exercise would be winnabilityAccording to him constituencies would be allocated to allies based on their electoral strength and prospectsâOur objective is to allot seats to our allies where they have bright chances of winningâ he notedPalaniswamiâs remarks came a day after his meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi He described the interaction as cordial stating that both leaders held detailed discussions on the evolving political landscape in Tamil Nadu and the strategy for the upcoming pollsFurther underlining the pace of negotiations Palaniswami said BJPâs Tamil Nadu incharge Piyush Goyal is expected to visit the state on Saturday to carry forward the discussions and help finalise the agreementResponding to ongoing speculation about a possible tieup with actor Vijayâs Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam TVK Palaniswami firmly denied any such talksâAs AIADMK general secretary I have been consistently stating that we have not held discussions with TVK There is no basis for such reportsâ he saidHe also ruled out the possibility of new parties joining the NDA at this stage asserting that the alliance framework has already been finalisedOn a separate issue Palaniswami addressed the controversy surrounding AIADMK Rajya Sabha MP C Ve Shanmugamâs remarks about actress Nayanthara He said the matter should be considered closed noting that the MP had already apologisedâHe has realised his mistake and expressed regret It would not be appropriate to continue discussing it furtherâ Palaniswami added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/aiadmk-to-finalise-seat-sharing-with-bjp-allies-within-four-days-palaniswami-665762.html Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-signs-jal-jeevan-mission-20-pact-with-centre-to-strengthen-rural-water-supply-system-665766.html GandhinagarNew Delhi March 20 The Gujarat government has entered into a new agreement with the Centre under the second phase of the Jal Jeevan Mission focusing on sustaining and strengthening rural drinking water supply systems after achieving universal household tap connections in 2022 The memorandum of understanding MoU was signed between the state government and the Centreâs Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Jal Shakti Minister CR PatilThe agreement aims to improve accessibility regularity and longterm sustainability of drinking water facilities in rural areas under Jal Jeevan Mission 20Union Minister Patil and state Water Supply Minister Ishwarsinh Patel joined the programme through video conferenceSpeaking on the occasion Patel said âThe state government is committed to providing sufficient and clean drinking water to every corner of the state including the remotest areasâHe added âThis MoU executed by the government will play an important role in the management of drinking water in the state as well as in the qualitative development of rural lifeâHe further said âGujarat implements every scheme of the Centre successfully on a priority basisâ and described the agreement as a milestone stating âThe MoU signed under Jal Jeevan Mission 20 will prove to be a milestone in the rural development of the stateâHe noted that the resolve to provide clean and safe drinking water to every household would now move forward with greater determinationJal Jeevan Mission was launched on August 15 2019 with the aim of providing drinking water through tap connections to every rural household under the âHar Ghar Jalâ initiativeGujarat achieved this target by October 2022Under Jal Jeevan Mission 20 the focus has shifted to strengthening infrastructure ensuring regular supply and maintaining the sustainability of water systems by 2028According to officials the MoU provides for enhanced implementation monitoring and transparency of water supply schemesIt mandates the timely and quality completion of projects and their handover to village panchayats along with ensuring operation and maintenance OampM systemsWater management at the village level will be handled by Village Water and Sanitation Committees VWSC with emphasis on longterm security and sustainability of water sourcesThe agreement also emphasised the use of digital platforms such as âSujalam Bharatâ and âPM Gati Shaktiâ to improve monitoring and transparencyMeasures including water quality testing financial discipline and human resource development through initiatives such as âNal Jal Mitraâ have been incorporated along with public awareness campaigns like Jal Utsav to promote water conservationThe roles of both governments have been defined under the MoU with the Centre responsible for guidance funding and monitoring while the state will handle implementation policy measures and technical support IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/gujarat-signs-jal-jeevan-mission-20-pact-with-centre-to-strengthen-rural-water-supply-system-665766.html Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/custodial-death-in-tumakuru-ktaka-hm-orders-cid-probe-amid-police-assault-allegations-665767.html Bengaluru March 20 Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Friday handed over the investigation into an alleged custodial death reported from Tumakuru district to the Criminal Investigation Department CID Speaking to the media in Bengaluru HM Parameshwara said âThe death occurred during investigation on Thursday However we do not know the exact cause of the death In this background I have ordered a CID probe into the caseâWhen asked about the familyâs allegation that the death was caused by police assault he said the CID investigation would reveal the truth âIf the death has occurred due to assault it will come to light The postmortem report will also ascertain the cause of deathâ he addedHe further stated that the CID would conduct a comprehensive investigation and submit a report âIf the death is found to have been caused by police assault action will be initiated against the personnel concernedâ he saidResponding to a question about the deaths of two minors in Hubballi while shooting videos HM Parameshwara said âYouth often indulge in bike stunts wheeling and making reels for enjoyment We have controlled this to a large extent but some manage to evade police monitoring and end up in tragedies like thisââWe are monitoring wheeling in Bengaluru However youths take to the roads early in the morning to carry out such activities making it difficult for the police to track them The police are also trying to educate young people about the dangers of such behaviourâ he addedIt may be recalled that a man allegedly died in police custody at Huliyar police station in Tumakuru district triggering tension in the area Villagers have alleged that he died due to police assaultThe deceased was identified as Kantaraju 45 Police had brought six people who were reportedly playing cards to the station During this time Kantaraju died at the station Enraged over the incident villagers laid siege to the Huliyar police station locked its gates and staged a protest IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/custodial-death-in-tumakuru-ktaka-hm-orders-cid-probe-amid-police-assault-allegations-665767.html Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/uttarakhand-cabinet-expansion-the-five-mlas-who-took-oath-as-ministers-665772.html Dehradun March 20 Pushkar Singh Dhamiled Uttarakhand government expanded its cabinet on Friday by inducting five new MLAs as ministers reflecting a mix of seasoned and young faces The oath of office was administered to newly inducted cabinet members by Uttarakhand Governor Gurmit Singh administered the oath of officeThose who saw elevation as cabinet ministers included Mandan Kaushik Haridwar Khajan Dass Dehradun Pradeep Batra Roorkee Ram Singh Kaira Bhimtal and Bharat Singh Chaudhary RudraprayagMadan KaushikMadan Kaushik is a party veteran and seasoned leader with decades of public service He has been a senior officebearer having served the party in various roles He is the erstwhile Uttarakhand BJP president and presently is a member of the partys National Executive Council In a previous stint he also served as a cabinet minister in the Uttarakhand governmentHe began his political journey with student politics traversed through the political landscape and rose to become a cabinet Minister in the Uttarakhand governmentForaying into students politics in 1985 and becoming college president he was appointed as the BJP District General Secretary in 2000 Two years later he was awarded a party ticket to contest from the Haridwar constituency He debuted in the Legislative Assembly with a thumping victory Since then he has gone on to win the Haridwar seat in four subsequent electionsWith consecutive victories in 2002 2007 2012 2017 and 2022 Madan Kaushik has a formidable record of winning electionsSpeaking to the media after becoming a cabinet minister he said âI am a party worker I will do everything that is assigned to me I have always strived to fulfil whatever role given to me either by the party or by the governmentâHe also shared the governmentâs ambitious plan of organising a mega Kumbh Mela in the stateKhajan DassKhajan Dass elected from Rajpur Road constituency of Dehradun is known for âprinciples politicsâ and over the years has earned a reputation for calling a spade a spade even if the issue pertains to his own BJP governmentDass comes from the Scheduled Caste community and over the years has not only emerged as a key face of the community but also built a reputation with constant endeavours in public service He hogged the headlines some time ago when he opened front against his own government over slow and sluggish work pertaining to the âDehradun as smart cityâ projectPradeep BatraPradeep Batra the legislator from Roorkee constituency is a firsttime entrant in the Dhami cabinet He is a threetime legislator from Roorkee having won twice on a Congress ticket in 2012 and 2017 and once as the BJP candidate 2022Having switched sides from Congress in 2022 Pradeep Batra got elected from the same constituency on the BJP ticket This is his first stint with the Council of MinistersBatra a native of Uttarakhand also pursued his education in Roorkee Degree College and runs a family business that includes hotels and commercial businessesThe other two ministers are Ram Singh Kaira a legislator from Bhimtal constituency and Bharat Singh Chaudhary MLA from Rudraprayag seat Both are beginning their first stint as cabinet ministers in the Dhami governmentKaira first won the Bhimtal seat in 2017 as an Independent candidate and later joined the BJP in October 2021Dhami cabinetâs expansion long overdue is seen as a move by the ruling party to prepare itself for the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections Political observers see this as a step to address regional as well as caste equations considered crucial for the states electoral landscape IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/uttarakhand-cabinet-expansion-the-five-mlas-who-took-oath-as-ministers-665772.html Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/non-veg-leftovers-thrown-in-ganga-death-threats-abusive-messages-after-complaint-says-bjps-jaiswal-665775.html Varanasi March 20 BJP Yuva Morcha city president Rajat Jaiswal has alleged that he has received death threats through international calls emails and social media after he filed a complaint over nonvegetarian leftovers being thrown into the Ganga river in Varanasi during an Iftar gathering Speaking to IANS Jaiswal said that a couple of days ago he received an international call in which the caller spoke in Pakistani Punjabi after which an email was sent claiming that around 25â30 people wanted to debate with himâA day or two ago I received an international call and the caller was speaking in Pakistani Punjabi After that someone sent me an email saying that around 25â30 people wanted to have a debate with me I have filed a complaint regarding the matter and the administration is fully cooperatingâ he saidHe further alleged that he has been receiving abuses and death threats on social media as wellâThrough social media I am being abused and receiving death threats by a particular community The police had also arranged security outside my house but I refused itâ Jaiswal told IANSHe said that after receiving the threats he lodged a complaint with the police and the administration has assured him of full cooperation in the matterPolice have launched an investigation and are trying to trace the international phone numbers and email IDs from which the threats were allegedly issuedThe controversy erupted earlier after Jaiswal filed a complaint alleging that nonvegetarian food was consumed during an Iftar gathering on a boat in the Ganga and that leftovers were thrown into the river hurting the religious sentiments of Sanatan Dharma followersFollowing the complaint police arrested 14 youths who were allegedly part of the group that organised the Iftar on the river They were produced before a court and sent to judicial custody till April 1 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/non-veg-leftovers-thrown-in-ganga-death-threats-abusive-messages-after-complaint-says-bjps-jaiswal-665775.html Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/dhurandhar-2-sparks-political-reactions-leaders-divided-over-portrayal-of-atiq-ahmed-alleged-isi-links-665776.html New Delhi March 20 The recently released film Dhurandhar 2 which has sparked political reactions over its portrayal of gangsterturnedpolitician Atiq Ahmed and alleged links to Pakistanâs InterServices Intelligence ISI continues to draw mixed responses from leaders across parties Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav said that films often depict incidents from society and present them before the public adding that he personally knew Atiq Ahmed from his time in ParliamentSpeaking to IANS Yadav said âFilms essentially portray incidents that take place in society and present them to the people Since Atiq Ahmed was a Member of Parliament he served in that role along with me I have seen him in that capacity and I knew him quite well If such a story is being depicted it is appropriate The film has been appreciated by the audience Its tickets are even being sold in black so my best wishes to the filmâs director producer and actorsâHowever Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Rai criticised the film and alleged that political propaganda was behind such portrayalsRai told IANS âThe BJP has a propaganda machinery and advisors who keep getting films made based on their own imaginary narratives They can say anything about anyone and add any linksâJanata Dal United spokesperson Neeraj Kumar adopted a cautious stance saying he does not usually watch films but stressed that the responsibility ultimately lies with the Censor BoardâI neither watch films nor like to watch them However times have changed Now it is the responsibility of the Censor Board to take such decisions If something is presented within the rules I have nothing to say But if someone who has faced judicial proceedings or action by the Home Ministry is portrayed in a certain manner then it could amount to glorifying crimeâ Kumar told IANSAnother JDU leader the partyâs national spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan said it would be appropriate to comment only after watching the filmâI have not seen the film Films convey many things and a person has the right to express their views However it would be appropriate to comment on it only after watching the filmâ he saidShiv Sena spokesperson Shaina NC said the debate over whether the film is propaganda could continue but emphasised that Bollywoodâs primary role is entertainmentâWhether it is a propaganda film or not can certainly be debated but Bollywoodâs job is to entertain people From the perspective of entertainment I donât think there is any need to make statements that could create controversy or offend anyoneâ she saidMeanwhile UP Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar said filmmakers decide the content of movies based on what they believe will appeal to audiencesâLook the government does not make films These actors and filmmakers make them and they produce films in a way they believe will run well and succeedâ he saidThe film âDhurandhar 2â has triggered a political debate after its portrayal of Atiq Ahmed and the suggestion of links with Pakistanâs Intelligence agency with reactions continuing to pour in from leaders across the political spectrum IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/dhurandhar-2-sparks-political-reactions-leaders-divided-over-portrayal-of-atiq-ahmed-alleged-isi-links-665776.html Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-cash-hidden-in-car-boot-recovered-near-kolkata-driver-held-665783.html Kolkata March 20 The Kolkata Police recovered a large amount of cash from the boot of a vehicle at New Town in the northern outskirts of Kolkata on Friday As per the instructions of the new Commissioner of Kolkata Police security arrangements have been tightened amid the Assembly elections and ânakaâ checking arrangements at important junctions in and around the city which are under the jurisdiction of the city policeA senior city police official said that in the morning a vehicle was stopped by the police personnel posted at a naka checkpost near City CentreII in New Town Barring the driver of the vehicle who had been identified as Suresh Thakur no second person was in the vehicleIt is learnt that the driver was hesitant when the police asked him to open the boot of the vehicle On being insisted he opened it and the cops saw a bag there After opening the bag the cops found that it was packed with bundles of cash all in Rs 500 denominationsThe police started questioning the driver about the source of the money However when he was unable to give any satisfactory answer the police confiscated the cash and arrested the driverHe is now being questioned about the owner who is trying to track the source of the cash and who was the beneficiary the city police official said The total cash seized from the bag was Rs 25 lakhThis is the third major cash recovery in West Bengal in the current week Earlier on March 19 the police recovered a total of Rs 1175 lakh during similar ânakaâ checking at two different locations the first being at Baruipur in South 24 Parganas district and the second being at Alipurduar Chowpatty Crossing in Alipurduar districtSensing use of illegal cash in the forthcoming polls to allure voters the Election Commission of India ECI has already appointed 294 general observers for the state thus making West Bengal the only among five pollbound states and one union territory to have one general observer for each of the 294 Assembly constituencies in the stateApart from that the ECI has also appointed 188 police observers the highest among these five pollbound states and one UT and 100 expenditure observers the secondhighest on this count IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-cash-hidden-in-car-boot-recovered-near-kolkata-driver-held-665783.html Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-eci-cancels-rehabilitation-of-ips-officers-deputes-them-outside-state-665610.html Kolkata March 19 In a latenight development on Wednesday the Election Commission of India ECI cancelled the rehabilitation of several Indian Police Service IPS officers in West Bengal who had been given alternative postings by the state government after being removed by the Commission from their earlier posts and barred from electionrelated duties in the state which is heading for crucial twophase Assembly polls next month On Wednesday night the ECI issued a fresh notification cancelling the alternative postings of 15 such IPS officers and decided to shift them out of the state by deputing them as police observers to other pollbound statesThe list of IPS officers whose postings have been cancelled and who have been sent on deputation includes Akash Magharia Alok Rajoria Amandeep Abhijit Banerjee Bhaskar Mukherjee C Sudhakar Dhritimaan Sarkar Indira Mukherjee Murli Dhar Mukesh Praveen Kumar Tripathi Priyabrata Roy Sandeep Karra Rashid Munir Khan and Syed Waqar RajaAmong them Murli Dhar was the Police Commissioner of Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate and Syed Waqar Raja was the Police Commissioner of Siliguri Metropolitan PoliceThere had been a sustained demand from Opposition parties in West Bengal especially the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP that bureaucrats and police officers barred by the Commission from electionrelated duties should also be shifted out of the state till the polling process is over so that they are not in a position to influence the electoral process from within the stateWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had been critical of the removal of bureaucrats and police officers from their posts without consulting the state government and had written to Chief Election Commissioner CEC Gyanesh Kumar raising objections in the matterThe twophase polls in West Bengal will be held on April 23 and April 29 In the first phase polling will be held for 152 Assembly constituencies and in the second phase for 142 constituencies IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bengal-polls-eci-cancels-rehabilitation-of-ips-officers-deputes-them-outside-state-665610.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 11:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/palaniswami-to-meet-amit-shah-in-delhi-today-as-aiadmk-bjp-seat-talks-intensify-665643.html Chennai March 19 AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami EPS will reach New Delhi on Thursday as crucial seatsharing talks between the AIADMK and the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP enter their final phase ahead of the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections According to sources Palaniswami will leave for Delhi from Chennai around 10 am and is expected to hold highlevel discussions with senior BJP leadership in the national capitalHe is likely to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah to negotiate the allocation of constituencies between the two alliance partners The visit is being viewed as a decisive step toward finalising the alliance frameworkWith the Election Commission having announced the poll schedule political activity across Tamil Nadu has intensified Parties are now working on a war footing to conclude alliance negotiations and begin fullfledged campaigningThe ruling DMK has already made significant progress completing seatsharing arrangements with key allies such as the Congress and the CPI while talks with other partners are nearing closureIn contrast the AIADMKBJP alliance is yet to officially announce its seatsharing formula making the Delhi visit politically significant Both parties are understood to be working towards a mutually acceptable arrangement that reflects their respective strengths and electoral prioritiesMeanwhile Union Minister and BJPâs Tamil Nadu election incharge Piyush Goyal is likely to visit Chennai later this week His visit is likely to focus on resolving remaining differences including finalising constituencies and coordinating campaign strategiesPolitical observers say the outcome of Palaniswamiâs meetings in Delhi will play a key role in shaping the AIADMKBJP allianceâs electoral prospectsWith limited time left before campaigning gathers momentum both parties are under pressure to conclude talks quicklyAll eyes are now on the discussions in the national capital which are expected to determine the final contours of the AIADMKBJP alliance for the upcoming Assembly elections IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/palaniswami-to-meet-amit-shah-in-delhi-today-as-aiadmk-bjp-seat-talks-intensify-665643.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-celebrates-ugadi-with-fervour-pm-modi-extends-warm-wishes-665655.html Bengaluru March 19 The Ugadi festival is being celebrated throughout Karnataka on Thursday with immense enthusiasm Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his greetings to the public via a special letter on this occasion Addressing the people PM Modi stated Dear fellow citizen on the sacred and auspicious occasion of Ugadi I wish you and your family a happy new year This is a time when the beautiful season of spring spreads joy and cheer all around us The fragrance of newly blooming flowers and the arrival of seasonal fruits signal a spirit of new energy and possibilitiesThis is also a time when our hardworking farmers are gearing up for the next agricultural cycle with great optimism Ugadi with its traditional fervor reminds us to embrace life in all its flavours In many cultures apart from the different festive culinary delights there is also a tradition of preparing bittersweet dishes on this festival Prime Minister Modi statedIt conveys the deeper meaning of life encouraging us to face challenges with courage and greet success with gratitude he wishedMay the New Year bring good health and happiness in your lives May you succeed in all your endeavours and spread peace and positivity stated Prime Minister Narendra Modi Chief Minister Siddaramaiah taking to social media stated The bitterness of neem and the sweetness of jaggery remind us that we must accept both sorrow and joy with equanimity and move forward with hope Ugadi the festival that signifies a new era and transformation should bring positive change into everyoneâs life May it fill everyone with renewed enthusiasm fresh thoughts and new hope I extend my Ugadi greetings to all fellow citizensDeputy Chief Minister and State Congress President DK Shivakumar sharing posters of the festival conveyed his greetings to the people of the state He said Ugadi marks the beginning of a new cycle of creation a time of renewal and fresh beginnings Rooted in cherished memories we welcome new hopes and aspirations with optimism and purpose May this New Year bring happiness peace and good health to every home I wish everyone a very happy and prosperous UgadiBJP State President and MLA BY Vijayendra stated Heartfelt Ugadi greetings to all the people of the state Life is a blend of neem and jaggery Like the fresh sprouts of Chaitra may new dreams and hopes blossom Forget the bitterness of neem and may the sweetness of jaggery always fill our lives On this Ugadi of the Parabhava year may it defeat all pain and hardships and bring victory of smiles and happiness I wish that it ushers in peace prosperity harmony and progress across the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-celebrates-ugadi-with-fervour-pm-modi-extends-warm-wishes-665655.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-announces-candidates-for-bypolls-to-5-assembly-seats-in-goa-karnataka-nagaland-tripura-665656.html New Delhi March 19 The Bharatiya Janata Party BJP Central Election Committee on Thursday finalised candidates for the upcoming Assembly byelections in Goa Nagaland Karnataka and Tripura The highlevel meeting chaired by senior leader Nitin Naveen was held on Wednesday at the party headquarters here Prime Minister Narendra Modi Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Home Minister Amit Shah and all other members of the Central Election Committee were presentAfter detailed deliberations the panel cleared five candidates for the four states where byelections are scheduled later this yearIn Goa the party has fielded Ritesh Ravi Naik from the 21Ponda constituency Naik a prominent local face is expected to consolidate the BJPâs hold in the coastal beltIn Nagaland Daochier I Imchen has been chosen for the 28Koridang ST seat a party press release saidThe decision aims to strengthen the partyâs outreach among Scheduled Tribe voters in the northeastern stateKarnataka will see two contests Veerabhadrayya Charantimath has been nominated from 24Bagalkot while Srinivas T Dasakariyappa will contest from 107Davanagere SouthBoth leaders bring strong regional experience and are seen as safe bets to retain the saffron partyâs influence in northern KarnatakaIn Tripura Jahar Chakraborti will represent the BJP from the 56Dharmanagar constituency The choice reflects the partyâs continued focus on Tripura where it has maintained a strong presence since coming to powerThe selections were made after thorough consultations to ensure winnable and credible candidatesThese seats are considered vital for the party in all four statesIn Nagaland the contest offers an opportunity to expand the partyâs footprint in the regionParty sources said the Central Election Committee reviewed ground reports feedback from state units and organisational strength before finalising the names Strict instructions have been given to all candidates to begin campaigning immediately and focus on local issues such as development infrastructure and welfare schemesThe BJPâs announcement is being seen as a sign of a proactive strategy to counter any opposition movesLeaders across states have welcomed the decisions and vowed full support to ensure victoriesThis development comes at a time when the BJP is gearing up for multiple state pollsAnalysts believe these byelections will serve as a barometer for the partyâs organisational preparedness and popularity under the Modi governmentWith highprofile leaders like the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister personally overseeing the process the party is leaving no stone unturned to secure all five seats IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-announces-candidates-for-bypolls-to-5-assembly-seats-in-goa-karnataka-nagaland-tripura-665656.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-greets-people-of-andhra-telangana-on-telugu-new-year-665658.html Hyderabad March 19 Prime Minister Narendra Modi has greeted people in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on the occasion of Ugadi the Telugu New Year He posted his Ugadi message in Telugu on social media platforms conveying heartfelt wishes to people This is a festival that is rooted in tradition and at the same time symbolises new energy and a beginning he saidâUgadi marks the start of a new year and I pray that the coming year is full of happiness success and wonderful health May this year inspire everyone to pursue their aspirations with sincerity and contribute positively to societyâ reads his messageMeanwhile the Governor and Chief Ministers of both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have also greeted people on the occasion of Ugadi christened âPrabhava Namaâ this yearTelangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla in his message conveyed his greetings to all Teluguspeaking peopleâOn the auspicious occasion of Parabhava Nama Ugadi I extend heartfelt best wishes to each and every Teluguspeaking brother and sister across the world May this Telugu New Year usher in blessings and prosperity for you and your loved onesâ he saidâUgadi is a festival of joy and hope and the New Year shall bring with it new cheer and a bright future Let us embrace the spirit of Ugadi symbolized by the diverse tastes of the traditional Ugadi Pachchadi to face lifes challenges with optimism May this Sri Parabhava Nama Samvatsaram usher in peace prosperity harmony health and happiness for all people and sections of societyâ the Governor addedTelangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy extended heartfelt greetings to the Telangana people on the auspicious UgadiThe Chief Minister hoped that the new year would bring prosperity and good fortune to the people of the state Further the CM prayed for bountiful rains and that the farmers lives be filled with joy with abundant agricultural yields and livestock Recalling the launch of the Fine Rice distribution scheme free of cost for all ration card holders on Ugadi festival last year CM Revanth Reddy affirmed that the youngest state of Telangana in the country will achieve significant growth in all sectors and stands as a role model for the country The Chief Minister appealed to every Telangana citizen to celebrate Ugadi with pomp and gaiety enriching our culture and traditions further IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-greets-people-of-andhra-telangana-on-telugu-new-year-665658.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/after-a-decade-in-power-kerala-cpi-665661.html Kochi March 19 Leader of Opposition in the Assembly VD Satheesan on Thursday said issues within the CPIM are going from bad to worse and if it took 33 years for its decline in West Bengal the party in Kerala appears to be heading down a similar path much faster âAfter a decade in power the situation has reached a stage where internal cracks are becoming increasingly visible and difficult to containâ said SatheesanWith the Kerala Legislative Assembly Election 2026 scheduled for April 9 to elect 140 legislators the political landscape is rapidly evolvingWhile the Left faces mounting criticism both the Congressled United Democratic Front UDF and the BJPled National Democratic Alliance NDA have so far released only their first lists of candidatesThe opposition in the state has sharpened its attack pointing to what it calls growing unrest within the ruling front Satheesan said the current scenario vindicates concerns raised earlier about the CPIMâs internal healthSpeaking to reporters at Cochin International Airport after returning from Delhi he remarked that even senior leaders within the party are now speaking out in unusually harsh termsAdding to the concern for the Left is the apparent disillusionment among its traditional supporters and fellow travellersSatheesan argued that this erosion of confidence stems from the manner in which the government has been running over the past decade suggesting that dissatisfaction is no longer confined to political opponentsHe also hinted at more political surprises in the days ahead noting that earlier warnings about upheavals were largely dismissedOn the opposition front Satheesan said the UDF has resolved most issues related to candidate selection with a second list of around 40 candidates expected shortlyAs Kerala heads into a crucial electoral battle the focus is as much on governance as it is on the internal stability of the ruling front IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/after-a-decade-in-power-kerala-cpi-665661.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/sudhakaran-crisis-averted-in-kerala-as-senior-cong-leader-antony-steps-in-665663.html Thiruvananthapuram March 19 In a dramatic lastminute intervention senior Congress leader AK Antony stepped in to defuse a brewing crisis within the Indian National Congress persuading veteran leader and Kannur Lok Sabha member K Sudhakaran to stay back after he was on the verge of quitting the party Sudhakaran the Kannur Lok Sabha MP had been preparing to sever ties with the Congress following a standoff over his demand to contest the Kannur Assembly constituency in the upcoming Kerala Legislative Assembly Election 2026Sources indicated that he was even exploring the possibility of floating a new party and contesting independently a move that could have significantly altered the political equations in north KeralaThe BJP had kept the Kannur seat open after hearing that Sudhakaran is on his way outSensing the gravity of the situation Antony on Thursday initiated backchannel talks with Sudhakaran holding multiple rounds of discussions to address his concernsThe veteran leader also reached out to the partyâs central leadership including Rahul Gandhi briefing them on the potential fallout if Sudhakaran were to walk out at this critical junctureThe only time Sudhakaran in his four terms as a legislator was made a State Minister was when Antony became the Chief Minister in 2001According to party sources Antony underscored the political risks involved particularly in Kannur where Sudhakaran remains one of the Congressâ most influential figures and a key counterweight to the Communist Party of India MarxistHis exit it was felt would not only weaken the partyâs prospects in the constituency but also send negative signals to cadres across the stateFollowing these efforts the Congress leadership is understood to have relented agreeing to field Sudhakaran from the Kannur Assembly seatThe breakthrough is being seen as a crucial damage control exercise ahead of the pollsSpeaking to the media Antony confirmed his role in the negotiations stating that he had urged Sudhakaran not to take any step that would harm a party he has nurtured for decadesThe intervention appears to have averted a major split at least for now and restored a measure of stability within the Congress camp IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/sudhakaran-crisis-averted-in-kerala-as-senior-cong-leader-antony-steps-in-665663.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mamata-banerjee-attacks-eci-over-transfers-deputations-of-bureaucrats-cops-665665.html Kolkata March 19 IANS West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday lambasted the Election Commission of India ECI over the latters decision to transfer bureaucrats and police officers in the state and also sending many of them on deputation as general and police observers in other pollbound states almost daily since the model code of conduct came into force after the announcement of the polling dates for four states and one union territorynbspThe Chief Minister also accused the ECI of singling out West Bengal and said this trend even before issuing the formal notification of elections is highly alarmingThe manner in which the Election Commission has singled out and targeted Bengal is not just unprecedented It is deeply alarming Even before the formal notification of elections more than 50 senior officials including the Chief Secretary Home Secretary DGP ADGs IGs DIGs District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police have been summarily and arbitrarily removed This is not an administrative action this is political interference of the highest order the Chief Minister said in a statement on her official social media handle X in the afternoonnbsp nbspAccording to her what is happening currently is nothing but a systematic politicisation of institutions meant to remain impartial which is a direct assault on the Indian ConstitutionAt a time when a deeply flawed SIR process is underway and over 200 lives have already been lost the conduct of the Commission reflects a clear bias and an uncomfortable submission to political interests continuing to put the people of Bengal at risk the Chief Minister saidAccording to her such largescale transfers and deputation of bureaucrats and police officers were not incidental but pointed towards a deliberate design to seize control of West Bengal through coercion and institutional manipulationWhat we are witnessing is nothing short of an undeclared emergency and a promulgated form of presidents rule driven by political vendetta not democratic principles Having failed to win the trust of Bengals people the BJP is now attempting to capture the state through coercion intimidation manipulation and the misuse of institutions the Chief Minister addedIn her statement the Chief Minister has also expressed full solidarity towards all the bureaucrats and police officers who have been transferred or sent on deputation to other states and said these officers were being targeted as they served the state with honesty and commitmentBengal has never bowed to intimidation and it never will Bengal will fight Bengal will resist and Bengal will decisively defeat every attempt to impose a divisive and destructive agenda on its soil the Chief Minister addednbspnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mamata-banerjee-attacks-eci-over-transfers-deputations-of-bureaucrats-cops-665665.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-l-g-sandhu-visits-kalindi-kunj-boosts-battle-against-yamuna-pollution-665669.html New Delhi March 19 IANS Delhi Lieutenant Governor TS Sandhu on Thursday sprang into action to tackle the froth generated in the Yamuna River and visited the Kalindi Kunj bank with experts to chart the way forwardnbspIn a message on social media the LG wrote Visited the Kalindi Kunj Ghat along the Yamuna river along with senior officials of concerned departments to take a firsthand assessment of the current situationSandhu said the visit involved discussions with local and international experts from leading scientific institutions and organisations to help identify practical and sustainable measures going forwardA day earlier a political row erupted after the Delhi government floated a tender worth Rs 62 crore for two VIP inspection boats meant for monitoring and survey operations on the Yamuna River even as high levels of froth were seen floating on the river near Kalindi Kunj raising environmental concernsThe Irrigation and Flood Control Department issued the tender on March 12 to procure two vessels with each boat estimated to cost around Rs 31 crore According to the tender document the boats will be used for river monitoring surveys and inspection visits by senior officialsHowever the move drew sharp criticism from Congress National Secretary Abhishek Dutt who alleged that the government was focusing on expensive boats instead of tackling the worsening pollution in the YamunaToday pink foam is visible in the Yamuna Pink foam is a combination of sewage waste industrial waste and dry waste The pollution levels are thousands of times higher than what the Yamunas cleanliness levels should be Yet this government has no shame they are buying boats worth Rs six crore today he told IANSResponding to the criticism Delhi Assembly Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht a BJP legislator said pollution in the Yamuna was the result of longterm negligence by previous governments in the cityIt is true that all of us are responsible to some extent for the Yamunas water turning pink Drains used to flow directly into the Yamuna The Congress ruled for 15 years and the Arvind Kejriwal government for 11 years but there was negligence in installing effluent treatment plants ETPs he saidHe said If the ETPs had been installed the water would never have turned pink it would not have been polluted and fish would not have died But our government has come to power only a year ago we have already started the work of cleaning the YamunaIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-l-g-sandhu-visits-kalindi-kunj-boosts-battle-against-yamuna-pollution-665669.html Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/odisha-govt-approves-23-industrial-projects-worth-rs-4-510-crore-665467.html Bhubaneswar March 18 In a significant development the Odisha government on Tuesday approved 23 industrial projects with a total investment of Rs 451065 croreâ These projects were approved at the 145th meeting of the State Level Single Window Clearance Authority SLSWCA held here under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anu GargâAccording to an official statement the approved projects are expected to generate 10122 employment opportunities significantly contributing to inclusive economic growth and reinforcing Odishaâs emergence as a leading industrial destination in eastern IndiaââThe approvals reflect the Stateâs strategic focus on employmentled industrialisation sectoral diversification and regional equity aligned with the broader national vision of Purvodaya By catalysing investments across both established and emerging sectors Odisha continues to position itself as a key driver of industrial growth in the eastern regionâ added the state governmentâThe approved projects span a wide spectrum of sectors including Woodbased Industries Chemicals Apparel Technical Textiles Pharmaceuticals Medical Devices Manufacturing Aluminium Downstream Industries Electrical Equipment Steel amp Metal Downstream Industries Food Processing Agro Processing Gemstones amp Jewellery Infrastructure IT amp ITES and Tourism amp Hospitality This diverse portfolio underscores the Stateâs commitment to building a resilient sustainable and innovationdriven industrial ecosystemâThese projects will be implemented across eleven districtsâBalasore Bolangir Cuttack Jagatsinghpur Kalahandi Keonjhar Khordha Koraput Puri Sambalpur and Sundargarhâensuring balanced regional development and deeper industrial penetration across the StateâAmong the major investment proposals are in Koraput with an investment of Rs 87082 crore generating 1000 employment opportunities a tile adhesives manufacturing unit in Balasore a pharmaceutical product manufacturing unit in Cuttack with an investment of Rs 23690 crore generating 549 jobs a Sulphuric Acid Plant in Jagatsinghpur with an investment of Rs 425 crore and a grainbased ethanol unit along with a cogeneration power plant in Kalahandi etcââAligned with the vision of Samruddha Odisha 2036 these approvals mark another significant step towards transforming Odisha into a leading industrial and economic powerhouse of eastern India contributing meaningfully to Indiaâs growth storyâ noted the state governmentâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/odisha-govt-approves-23-industrial-projects-worth-rs-4-510-crore-665467.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/allparty-mps-delegation-to-meet-pm-modi-after-state-polls-shivakumar-665469.html New Delhi March 18 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said it had been decided at a meeting of Karnataka MPs to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Jal Shakti Minister with an allâparty delegation after the Assembly elections in various states are completedâ Addressing the media on Tuesday night after a meeting with MPs from the state at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi Shivakumar said the meeting was convened to discuss irrigation issues affecting the state and ways to remove minor hurdles in projects such as the Mahadayi Krishna Tungabhadra and Bhadra projects as well as to review the status of irrigation schemes and how they should be taken forwardâShivakumar said time needed to be sought to meet the Prime Minister and the concerned ministersâHe said MPs suggested that a date be fixed after elections in some states were over ââWe must respect their request because all of us need to work together Therefore we have postponed the meeting to a later dateâ he saidâShivakumar noted that elections had been announced in some states and decisions taken now could have an impact âFor that reason they have asked us to fix another dateâ he addedâHe said MPs expressed the view that everyone should work together in the interest of the state ââWe have worked together earlier and will continue to do so It is also our intention to take an allâparty delegation Our wish is that everyone should unite and work collectively for the welfare of the stateâ he saidâHe said the land acquisition process for the Upper Krishna Project UKPâ3 had begun and the government had moved to acquire 133 lakh acres of land by fixing mutually agreed compensation Adequate funds had been allocated in the Budget he said adding that such a large decision had not been taken earlier in the countryâs historyâOn the Cauvery issue he said the government would proceed in accordance with the Supreme Courtâs orderâShivakumar said the meeting was scheduled after discussions with the Union Jal Shakti Minister and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and that 24 MPs attendedâHe said several leaders including former Chief Ministers and BJP MPs Jagadish Shettar and Basavaraj Bommai former Deputy CM Govind Karjol and BJP MP Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri participated in the discussions and raised various issues with the governmentââThey have understood how the state government is moving forward on irrigation issues and have assured support I thank all the MPs who attended the meetingâ he saidâShivakumar said MPs were also informed about what had happened during the BJP governmentâs tenure and how the present government had been advancing projects âWe have submitted certain documents and explained the steps our government has takenâ he saidâHe added that he and the ministers had also met with the governmentâs legal team and expressed confidence that they were committed to working in the interests of the people âWe will resolve all issues related to irrigationâ he saidâResponding to a question about environmental clearance for the Yettinahole project Shivakumar said the government had been waiting for approval for the past year âNow we will immediately proceed with the work Half the work has already been completed Some conditions have been imposed and we will carry out the work accordinglyâ he saidâWhen asked about the imposition of a heavy penalty he said âSometimes we have to say what they ask us to say What is important for us is to implement the projectââThe penalty refers to environmentârelated penalties and conditions imposed because the Yettinahole project began work without clearances including costly compensatory afforestation and compliance requirements It was imposed by the Regional Empowered Committee REC under the Union Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Changeâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/allparty-mps-delegation-to-meet-pm-modi-after-state-polls-shivakumar-665469.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/8th-shetkari-mahasanman-nidhi-instalment-next-week-maha-minister-665470.html Mumbai March 18 Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne on Tuesday said the 8th instalment of the Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana will be deposited directly into farmersâ bank accounts next week The Government Resolution GR regarding this has been issued and an allocation of Rs 1774 crore has been approved for the instalmentHe said around 9034 lakh eligible farmers across the state will benefit from the decisionBharne said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar had taken special interest in ensuring the necessary funds were made available for the 8th instalmentThe Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana was launched by the State Government on the lines of the Central Governmentâs PMâKisan Samman Nidhi Yojana Its primary objective is to provide direct financial assistance to reduce rising farming costs and boost farmersâ incomeFarmers in the state receive Rs 6000 annually under PMâKisan Central and another Rs 6000 under the Namo Shetkari scheme State for a total of Rs 12000 per yearWhile the approved distribution amount for this instalment is Rs 1774 crore the actual disbursement to farmers will total Rs 1820 crore the minister saidSeven instalments have been distributed under the scheme so far The 8th instalment covers the period from August 2025 to November 2025Following the distribution of the 22nd instalment of the PMâKisan scheme by the Central Government on March 13 2026 the State Government acted swiftly to expedite the Namo Shetkari instalment Bharne statedHe said the scheme is being effectively implemented to increase farmersâ income reduce production costs and make agriculture more resilientâAfter the success of the first seven instalments this eighth one will provide massive relief and strengthen the rural economyâ he saidThe GR said the decision to pay the 8th instalment is expected to provide direct financial support to help farmers cover agricultural expenses thereby boosting the rural economy and making farming more sustainable IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/8th-shetkari-mahasanman-nidhi-instalment-next-week-maha-minister-665470.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/krishnamoorthi-narrowly-loses-bid-for-democratic-senate-nomination-665483.html New York March 18 Raja Krishnamoorthi a moderate Democrat member of the House of Representatives but a strong critic of President Donald Trump narrowly lost the Illinois primaries for the partyâs Senate nomination While counting was continuing the media projected his main rival Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton as the winner Tuesday nightAt 10 pm local time in Illinois three hours after the polls closed Stratton was ahead of him by about 6 per cent with about 85 per cent of the votes countedThe winner of the Democratic Party primary is assured of victory in the November general election running against a Republican in the bright blue state where former Kamala Harris outperformed Trump by 11 per cent in the 2024 presidential electionWith the primary loss Krishnamoorthi failed in his ambition to become the second Indian American to serve in the Senate after Harris who went on to become the vice president and the Democratic Partyâs presidential candidateKrishnamoorthi a member of the House of Representatives since 2017 ran a heavily financed insurgent campaign against Stratton the preferred candidate of the state Democratic Party establishmentShe had the backing of the states powerful billionaire Governor JB Pritzker and Senator Tammy DuckworthRepresentative Robin Kelly another African American woman like Stratton came third in the race for the nomination to succeed Democrat Dick Durbin who decided not to run againThe primary was cast by some commentators as a contest of wills between Krishnamoorthi and Pritzker who is running for reelection to a third term and positioned his trusted lieutenant Stratton against KrishnamoorthiPritzker an heir to the Hyatt hotel empire spent 5 million of his personal fortune to back her in a primary that recorded high spending by both sidesA company that tracks ad spending reported that about 29 million was spent on ads backing Krishnamoorthi while it was about 16 million for StrattonWhile Pritzkerâs largesse for Stratton became an issue in the election Krishnamoorthiâs backing by Fairshakes a political action committee backed by digital and cryptocurrency interests also sparked controversiesIt was because Fairshake spent money on ads backing Kelly which was seen as an effort to split African American votes to favour Krishnamoorthi even though he was not the direct beneficiary of the spendingKrishnamoorthi also received about 250000 from the Indian American Impact Fund a political action committee of the communityKrishnamoorthi made opposition to Trumpâs policies a central plank of his campaign most recently ramping up opposition to what he called âunauthorised war with no end in sightâ in IranHe voted against Trumpâs Iran War in a resolution in the Senate that had the support of members of both parties but failed to passHe has also backed legislative moves to undo some of Trumpâs actions against welfare programmesWith the already high prices rising further fueled by the Iran conflict the economy and affordability were among his targetsBorn in New Delhi Krishnamoorthi came to the US as a threemonthold infant when his father brought his family over as he pursued higher education and the American DreamThe immigrant background fit in with a central issue in the election Trumpâs immigration crackdown that brought his Operation Midway Blitz to the streets of Chicago and led to the arrests of about 1600 people many under controversial circumstancesKrishnamoorthi proclaimed in a campaign ad âIâm an immigrant myselfâ adding Thatâs why stopping Trump and ICEâs attacks on our communities is deeply personal to meâHe called for ending the Trump version of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement ICE agencyâs operations and reforming itStratton has called for abolishing it entirelyKrishnamoorthi will be giving up his House seat when his term ends bringing down the membership of the sixmember socalled âSamosa Caucusâ of Indian Americans in Congress unless new members win in November IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/krishnamoorthi-narrowly-loses-bid-for-democratic-senate-nomination-665483.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/crimes-against-women-down-865-pc-in-assam-cm-sarma-665492.html Guwahati March 18 Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday said crimes against women in the state have declined by 865 per cent since his government assumed office asserting that ensuring the safety and security of women remains a top priority In a post on social media platform X CM Sarma said his government has taken sustained measures to curb crimes against women though efforts will continue until such incidents are eliminated entirelyâThe safety and security of my mothers and sisters is of utmost priority That is why since our government took charge crimes against women have drastically gone down but we wonât rest till we ensure that thereâs a day when there are zero crimes against womenâ the Chief Minister saidHighlighting the progress made under the current administration Sarma stated that there has been an 865 per cent decline in crimes against women attributing the reduction to stronger law enforcement and targeted interventionsThe Chief Minister said the state government has focussed on improving policing enhancing surveillance mechanisms and ensuring stricter implementation of laws related to womenâs safetyOfficials said the Assam Police has intensified its efforts in recent years to address crimes against women including faster investigation of cases increased patrolling and awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging reporting of offencesThe government has also rolled out several initiatives aimed at improving womenâs safety and security including strengthening women police stations deploying dedicated personnel and leveraging technology for better monitoringSarma reiterated that while the decline in crime figures is encouraging the government remains committed to achieving complete safety for women across the stateHe emphasised that ensuring a secure environment for women is essential for overall social development and that the administration will continue to take stringent action against offendersThe Chief Ministerâs remarks come amid ongoing efforts by the state government to project improved law and order and governance outcomes ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Assam IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/crimes-against-women-down-865-pc-in-assam-cm-sarma-665492.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ayodhya-gears-up-for-president-murmus-visit-on-march-19-665499.html Ayodhya Uttar Pradesh March 18 Elaborate arrangements are being made for President Droupadi Murmus upcoming visit to Ayodhya on March 19 The road leading up to the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple has been adorned with saffron flags and pennant banners Workers were seen putting up banners across the city depicting President Murmu Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Speaking about the arrangements and security measures Ayodhyas District Magistrate DM Nikhil Tikaram Funde told IANS We are working towards ensuring a hassle free eventHe added that VIP darshan will be closed on that day but common people will be allowed to visit the temple except for the time period during the Presidents visitSSP Ayodhya Gaurav Grover said Today we have been briefed about the security measures and our responsibilities during President Murmus visit Right from her landing at the airport to the route that will be taken by her to reach the venue everything has been planned accordinglyHe added We will also ensure that common people who will come for darshan dont face any difficultiesPresident Murmu is scheduled to participate in a series of religious ceremonies at the Ram Mandir Ayodhya including the installation of the Ram Yantra on the templeâs second floor and Vedic rituals as part of special celebrations marking the Hindu New YearDuring her visit the President will also install the Shri Ram Yantra and Shri Ram Naam temple on the second floor of the temple complex and take part in Vedic prayers that will begin at around 9 AM The rituals will be performed by 51 Vedic scholars from southern India Kashi and Ayodhya under the guidance of priest Ganeshwar ShastriPresident Murmu will also honour nearly 400 workers who contributed to the construction of the temple and hoist a flag at one of the temples located along the outer precinct known as the parkota The Presidentâs convoy is expected to reach the temple complex at around 11 AM and she will remain there for nearly four hoursThe event will see participation from several religious and social leaders including spiritual leaders Around 5000 special guests have been invited for the occasion while elaborate arrangements are being made for security seating transport and accommodationOfficials said the temple trust also plans to open access to additional shrines within the complex for devotees after the Presidents programme Under the proposed system about 5000 devotees will be allowed daily to visit temples within the parkota area through a passbased arrangementMeanwhile the number of devotees visiting Ayodhya continues to rise with about 1500 pilgrims from Punjab arriving in the city by a special train on Saturday to offer prayers to Ram Lalla IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ayodhya-gears-up-for-president-murmus-visit-on-march-19-665499.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/from-war-to-sectarian-strife-pakistan-extends-afghan-blame-game-as-public-backs-it-665500.html New Delhi March 18 The war in Afghanistan is turning out to be a genocide in which Pakistan has been mercilessly targeting innocent civilians The death count of civilians following the hospital strike that killed 400 now stands at 835 Experts say that the real cause of the war is not Islamabadâs concern about terrorism Pakistan has without proof accused the Afghan Taliban of backing the TehreekeTaliban Pakistan TTP The real issue for the Pakistanis is Afghanistanâs independenceSince the Taliban returned to power in 2021 it has refused to bow down to the Pakistanis The Afghan Taliban made it clear that Afghanistan can no longer be treated as a Pakistani province The Taliban also does not want any interference when it comes to Afghanistanâs foreign policyOfficials say that the war that Pakistan started is not justified one bit While Pakistani aggression in Afghanistan is at its peak there is also a narrative that is being built up which aims at blaming the Afghans for deaths in PakistanThe Pakistani establishment which has been questioned at home about the need for the war has come up with a strategy to legitimise its actions The ISI has instructed its extremist proxies to target local Pakistanis and then pass it off as though it was carried out by the AfghansThe recent targeting of the Shia population in Pakistan has been passed off as attacks carried out by Afghans or those who had travelled to Afghanistan in recent timesAn official said that Pakistan has faced sectarian violence for a long time Pakistan however does not want to accept this as an internal problem Such problems were persistent even when the Taliban was out of power However with the start of the war and the need to justify the same the ISI is making an internal problem seem like an external oneIt is trying to put the blame on the Afghans and the Taliban for the sectarian violence that is taking place in Pakistan the official added Accusing the Afghan Taliban of backing the TTP to carry out strikes in Pakistan is also a way of misleading the Pakistani people another official saidThe TTP has been in a battle with the Pakistani establishment for a long time Attacks were carried out in Pakistan even when the Taliban was out of power in Afghanistan Further the Pakistani establishment has long tried to suggest that the TTP was created by the Afghan Taliban Another official said that this is a false narrative and the TTP is not a creation of the Afghan Taliban Why would the Afghan Taliban create a breakaway group to carry out attacks in Pakistan the official saidThe real problem began in 2021 when the Taliban refused to adhere to Pakistanâs demands and directives To justify its aggression in Afghanistan Pakistan has falsely accused the Taliban of backing the TTPAn Intelligence Bureau official said that at first there were many within Pakistan who were opposed to a war with Afghanistan However the Pakistani establishment has successfully managed to change that narrative If one looks at the social media handles being run by the Pakistanis it is filled with hate for Afghanistan There are posts which justify the killings of civilians in AfghanistanThe official explained that the attack on the OmidIbn Sina rehabilitation hospital in Kabul was the worst that the country had ever witnessed A total of 400 innocents were killed in Pakistani airstrikesPakistan however has denied that it had hit the hospital The people of Pakistan are either quiet when such incidents take place or on other occasions are seen celebrating the killings of civiliansOfficials say that the change in the mindset of the people towards Afghanistan and its people thanks to the fake narrative by the establishment is truly dangerous and disturbing Since the start of the war in late February 835 civilians have been killed in Pakistani airstrikes and shelling This includes 87 women and 22 children More than 1300 civilians have been injured and 540 homes have been destroyed Further 8000 families across Afghanistan have been displaced The Pakistanis have destroyed 26 mosques and eight madrasas five hospitals in Kabul Kandahar and NangarharHospitals are being hit at a time when there is limited medical capacity amid rising casualties The areas in Afghanistan which have been worst hit are Kabul Kandahar Nangarhar Khost Paktika Paktia Kunar and Laghman IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/from-war-to-sectarian-strife-pakistan-extends-afghan-blame-game-as-public-backs-it-665500.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-bids-farewell-to-retiring-rs-members-lauds-their-contribution-to-parliamentary-legacy-665505.html New Delhi March 18 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday bid farewell to Members of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha who are set to retire upon the completion of their terms acknowledging their contribution to parliamentary proceedings and public lifenbspThe proceedings in the Upper House began with members coming together to extend farewell to MPs who will be retiring between April and July after completing their tenureA total of 37 MPs from 10 states are scheduled to retire from the Rajya Sabha in the coming monthsAddressing the House the Prime Minister reflected on the shared experiences of members saying Many things are discussed in this House There are bittersweet times But when times like these come everyone feels the same amount of respect for their colleagues Those who are retiring today some will come back to this House while some will go on to work for the people in different waysHe also highlighted the contributions of several senior leaders with long parliamentary experienceHD Devegowda Mallikarjun Kharge and Sharad Pawar are some of the senior members who have spent more than half their lives in parliamentary procedures Even after such long experience new members should learn from them how to come to the House with dedication contribute whatever is possible and remain completely devoted to the responsibility given by society We all have something to learn from these senior members I highly appreciate their contribution because such a long tenure is not small it is very significant he saidThe Prime Minister lauded Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh for his role and contributions to the functioning of the HouseSpeaking about the Republican Party of India RPI chief and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale he remarked in a lighter vein Our Athawale ji is always jovial Athawale ji is leaving but no one here will feel his absence He will keep serving humour and wit we are fully confident of thatReflecting on the continuity of parliamentary traditions PM Modi said Every two years a big farewell takes place in this House But such is the system that new members who come immediately get the opportunity to learn something from the colleagues who have been sitting here for a long time with four years of experience In a way the legacy here continues as an ongoing process This is a great advantageHe expressed confidence that continuing members would guide newcomers and enrich the functioning of the House with their experienceThe opportunity to remain here for six years is significant not only for contributing to national life through policymaking but also as an invaluable experience that enriches ones own life When respected MPs come here with their thoughts understanding and capabilities by the time they leave these qualities multiply manifold through the power of experience he saidAfter leaving their contribution to national life continues they may or may not remain within the system but their invaluable contribution in building national life continues Their experience always remains useful My best wishes to all respected MPs and I once again acknowledge and appreciate the contribution of all respected MPs he addedMeanwhile in the latest round of biennial Rajya Sabha elections held on March 16 the ruling NDA strengthened its position in the Upper House by sweeping all five seats in Bihar and securing three out of four seats in OdishaPolling was conducted for 11 out of the 37 Rajya Sabha vacancies covering Bihar Odisha and Haryana while the remaining members had already been elected unopposed earlierIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-bids-farewell-to-retiring-rs-members-lauds-their-contribution-to-parliamentary-legacy-665505.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/people-in-politics-or-public-life-neither-get-tired-nor-retire-rajya-sabha-lop-kharge-665507.html New Delhi March 18 IANS Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday joined members in bidding farewell to those set to retire from the Upper House emphasising that commitment to public service continues beyond formal positionsnbspKharge who himself is scheduled to retire from the Rajya Sabha in June participated in the farewell proceedings that began with members extending their good wishes to MPs retiring between April and July upon completion of their tenureSpeaking during the discussion Kharge highlighted the enduring nature of parliamentary responsibilities and the continuity of the HouseAddressing the House after Prime Minister Narendra Modi he said There are many members who will come back to the House however some might not get an opportunity to come back here Rajya Sabha is a permanent and continuous House as mentioned by the Prime Minister also Every six years members come here after getting elected and every two years onethird of the members retire Today the same is happeningHe underlined that those in public life remain driven by a sense of duty regardless of tenurePeople in politics or public life neither get tired nor retire for the passion to serve the country Kharge saidReflecting on his own experience he noted that his tenure in the House had been enrichingI became a member of this House for the first time and soon my tenure here will also end However the experience I got from the members in this House is enriching The things that are discussed here are worth learning Even after so many years in politics I learn many things here he addedOn a lighter note Kharge made a humorous remark about former Prime Minister HD Devegowda saying I have known him for several years but I do not know what happened Prem humare saath shaadi Modi ji ke saath This happened recently but I dont know how drawing laughter across the House including from the Prime MinisterKharge also expressed satisfaction that NCPSP chief Sharad Pawar would be returning to the House againSpeaking about the Republican Party of India chief and Union Minister Ramdas Athawale he said in a lighter vein Through his poems he always praises PM Modi Always I dont think he knows any other poem than you PM Modi again evoking laughter among membersHe also acknowledged the contributions of several retiring members including Digvijaya Singh KTS Tulsi and Abhishek Manu Singhvi appreciating their role in enriching parliamentary debates and proceedingsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/people-in-politics-or-public-life-neither-get-tired-nor-retire-rajya-sabha-lop-kharge-665507.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rs-dy-chairman-harivansh-thanks-pm-modi-kharge-during-farewell-remarks-665521.html New Delhi March 18 IANS Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh who is set to retire from the House on Wednesday expressed gratitude to all members for their cooperation contributions and the respect extended to him during his tenurenbspHarivansh Narayan Singh is scheduled to retire from the Rajya Sabha in April and will not be returning to the House after the completion of his termSpeaking during the farewell proceedings for retiring members in the Upper House he thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge and other members for their kind words and supportAddressing the House Harivansh acknowledged the collective efforts that contribute to the functioning of Parliament and appreciated the cooperation he received across party linesExpressing his gratitude to the Prime Minister in particular he said Whenever I met him I always talked to him about the proceedings and what can be done to work effectively for the peopleHe also conveyed appreciation for the constructive engagement of members noting that such interactions helped in maintaining the decorum and efficiency of the Houses proceedingsThe proceedings in the Upper House began with members coming together to extend farewell to MPs who will be retiring between April and July after completing their tenure The farewell session witnessed members from across the political spectrum coming together to acknowledge the contributions of those completing their tenureEarlier PM Modi also bid farewell to Members of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha who are set to retire upon the completion of their terms acknowledging their contribution to parliamentary proceedings and public lifeKharge also joined members in bidding farewell to those set to retire from the Upper House emphasising that commitment to public service continues beyond formal positionsKharge who himself is scheduled to retire from the Rajya Sabha in June participated in the farewell proceedings that began with members extending their good wishes to MPs retiring between April and July upon completion of their tenureBoth the Prime Minister and Kharge lauded Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh for his role and contributions to the functioning of the HouseIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rs-dy-chairman-harivansh-thanks-pm-modi-kharge-during-farewell-remarks-665521.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 13:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hours-after-quitting-congress-assam-mp-pradyut-bordoloi-joins-bjp-665529.html New Delhi March 18 Hours after quitting the Congress party Lok Sabha MP from Assam Pradyut Bordoloi joined the BJP in the national capital on Wednesday Bordoloi who was a minister in Assam during the Congress regime joined the BJP in the presence of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and state BJP president Dilip SaikiaPradyut Bordoloi said he was âdeeply hurtâ and âleft with no optionâ but to resign from the Indian National Congress alleging repeated humiliation and a lack of a conducive environment within the partyâs Assam unitSpeaking to reporters here Bordoloi said the decision was painful but inevitable âI am saddened to take this step but I had no option left I was mentally hurt and internally exhaustedâ he said indicating that issues within the party had been building up for some timeThe veteran leader claimed that several senior Congress figures had âinsultedâ him on multiple occasions leading to a sense of alienationâI have dedicated my entire life to the Congress but today I feel completely alone I waited for hours to meet KC Venugopal but I was not allowed a meetingâ he said underlining the emotional toll of his exitAt the same time Bordoloi acknowledged the role the Congress played in shaping his political career âThe Congress party has given me a lot Whatever I am today is because of the Congressâ he noted adding that his decision was not driven by disregard for the partyâs legacy but by the prevailing circumstancesHowever he stressed that the situation within the Assam Congress had deteriorated to a point where he no longer felt comfortable continuing âThere is no environment in the Assam Congress for me to stay That is why I resignedâ Bordoloi saidHis resignation and switching sides are being seen as a significant setback for Congress in Assam particularly at a time when the party is grappling with internal challenges and gearing up for crucial political battles ahead IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hours-after-quitting-congress-assam-mp-pradyut-bordoloi-joins-bjp-665529.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 14:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/lok-sabha-takes-up-agriculture-demands-for-grants-665531.html New Delhi March 18 IANS Lok Sabha took up voting on the Demands for Grants for the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare for the financial year 202627 on WednesdaynbspThe Ministry has been allocated Rs 140529 crore in the Union Budget reflecting a 54 per cent increase over the revised estimates of 202526Nearly 93 per cent of this allocation is directed to the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare which oversees farmercentric schemes subsidies crop insurance and welfare initiatives The remaining 7 per cent is earmarked for the Department of Agricultural Research and Education to strengthen research extension services and agricultural educationDuring the debate members of Parliament from across the political spectrum emphasised priorities such as boosting agricultural productivity ensuring fair prices for farmers expanding irrigation networks promoting sustainable practices and improving access to rural creditThey also flagged challenges including climate resilience market linkages and the need for technological innovation to raise farm incomes Cut motions where opposition members propose reductions or highlight grievances were considered as part of the processThe approval of these demands formally authorises the government to implement schemes under the Ministry underscoring Parliaments role in exercising financial oversight over one of Indias most vital sectors agriculture which sustains millions of livelihoods and underpins food security and economic stabilityThe days proceedings also included discussion of reports presented by the Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare covering policy oversight and budgetary aspects of health and family welfare programmesSubsequently the House considered a motion on the report of the Joint Committee regarding the Constitution 129th Amendment Bill 2024 alongside deliberations on the Union Territories Laws Amendment Bill 2024nbspTogether these debates and votes formed part of the ongoing Budget Session where financial allocations and legislative reports remain central to governance and sectoral developmentnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/lok-sabha-takes-up-agriculture-demands-for-grants-665531.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 14:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/hinduism-unites-not-divides-opposition-on-sara-ali-khan-temple-row-665539.html New Delhi March 18 A controversy erupted on Wednesday after Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan was asked to submit an affidavit if she wishes to seek blessings at the Badrinath and Kedarnath temples The matter has drawn strong reactions from the Opposition with Samajwadi Party MLA Ashutosh Verma asserting that the Hindu religion and Hindutva are meant to bring people togetherThe row took place after BadriKedar Temple Committee Chairman Hemant Dwivedi on Tuesday said that all nonHindus will be required to submit an affidavit if they wish to seek blessings at the temples henceforthMLA Verma told IANS Whoever is involved in such things neither understands the true meaning of the Hindu religion nor HindutvaHighlighting that Sara Ali Khan had done a film based on Kedarnath he said Sara Ali Khan had done such a good film on Kedarnath which inspired many people to visit the place No one among the 140 crore Indians should be prohibited from visiting any place Everyone is free to go wherever he or she wants that is the democratic right granted to all IndiansThe SP leader alleged that BJP members are involved in the incident Such divisive policies where BJP members are involved are not appropriate he saidPurnea MP Pappu Yadav maintained that worship is solely connected to ones belief system He said Any person can visit a gurdwara church temple or a mosque nobody can stop him or her Whether it is Shirdi Sai Babas shrine or Ajmer Sharif Dargah people are allowed to go everywhere since it is related to ones belief To give a certificate for such a thing has not been our culture and tradition I believe its wrongHowever the BJP defended the decision of the Temple Committee Speaking to reporters outside the Parliament BJP MP Kangana Ranaut said Everyone here is Sanatani Sanatan has no beginning and no end All religions are 10001500 years old Sanatan is the ultimate truth She is also Sanatani What is the problem for her to give an affidavitBihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi told IANS Kedarnath Badrinath are pilgrimage sites for those who follow the Sanatan religion and if we are visiting those places of worship we should have belief in the Hindu religion He added that these are not just tourist places but for those who fully believe in the Sanatan religionBJP Spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo claimed there are many holy places of Muslims or Christians where Hindus are not allowed to enter He said This is the decision of the Kedarnath Temple Management Committee but whoever is questioning this should think that a nonpracticing Muslim is not allowed to visit Mecca Madinah And whether any Hindu is allowed to be sprinkled with the holy water by the Pope at Vatican cityHe asserted that there should be a similar practice in all religions Sara Ali Khan will have to accept the decision of the Kedarnath Temple he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/hinduism-unites-not-divides-opposition-on-sara-ali-khan-temple-row-665539.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 14:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/palam-fire-pm-modi-condoles-loss-of-lives-announces-rs-2-lakh-ex-gratia-665542.html New Delhi March 18 IANS After a tragic fire at a building in New Delhis Palam claimed nine lives on Wednesday Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences and announced an aid of Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of the deceasednbspnbspA major fire broke out in a multistorey building located in Ram Market Palam in the morning leaving at least nine people dead and several others injuredThe fire incident in Palam Delhi is saddening I extend my condolences to those who have lost their loved ones May the injured recover at the earliest the Prime Ministers Office PMO said in a statementAn exgratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased The injured would be given Rs 50000 it addednbspMeanwhile Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has initiated a magisterial investigationnbspThe information regarding the incident was received at Police Station Palam Village at around 704 am following which the Station House Officer SHO and police staff rushed to the spotnbspThe fire erupted in a fourstorey building situated at WZ124A Ram Chowk Market According to officials the basement ground floor and first floor of the building housed a cloth and cosmetic showroom owned by Rajender Kashyap who is also the Market Pradhan while his family resided on the upper floorsThe rescue teams managed to evacuate some people from the building and shift them to nearby hospitals However casualties were reported from multiple medical facilitiesAt Manipal Hospital eight people identified as Pravesh 33 Kamal 39 Ashu 35 Lado 70 Himanshi 22 and three minor girls aged 15 6 and 3 years were declared deadAt IGI Hospital one woman identified as Deepika approx 28 years old was declared brought dead one male Anil approx 32 years old and one girl two years old are undergoing treatmentAt Safdarjung Hospital a man named Sachin 29 was admitted with around 25 per cent burn injuriesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/palam-fire-pm-modi-condoles-loss-of-lives-announces-rs-2-lakh-ex-gratia-665542.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-govt-floats-tender-for-two-vip-boats-worth-rs-62-crore-for-yamuna-monitoring-665543.html New Delhi March 18 The Delhi governmentâs Irrigation and Flood Control IampFC Department has floated a tender to procure two boats for monitoring and survey operations on the Yamuna river officials said The tender issued on March 12 seeks two vessels with an estimated combined cost of around Rs 62 crore with each boat expected to cost about Rs 31 crore The boats will be used for river monitoring surveys and inspection visits by senior officialsAccording to the tender document each boat should accommodate 16 to 20 persons and measure around 13 metres in length 43 metres in width and 21 metres in height The vessels will have enclosed cabins equipped with airconditioning systems and seating arrangementsThe interior specifications include customised businessclass pushback seats made of vegan leather integrated hand rests with wooden finish bottle holders and ambient LED lighting The boats will also include a pantry for serving food washrooms and a fresh water storage capacity of around 400 litresEach vessel will have an open rear deck fitted with sofatype seating for three to four persons to facilitate public appearances during official visits and inspection toursThe boats will be powered by 300horsepower fourstroke engines with fuel tanks capable of holding between 700 and 1000 litres As per the tender specifications the vessels will have a displacement of approximately 12 tonnes at full load and will be capable of reaching speeds of up to 25 knotsSafety equipment on board will include tracking devices very high frequency VHF radio signal stations fire pumps emergency medical equipment and depth sounders capable of measuring water depth up to 500 metres The supplying agency will also be responsible for maintenance and spare parts for two yearsOfficials said the boats will be used for monitoring the Yamuna conducting surveys and facilitating inspection visits by senior government functionaries The vessels are also expected to assist in flood monitoring and rescue operations during the monsoon season as well as during festivals such as Chhath PujaCurrently the IampFC department hires boats whenever required for bathymetric surveys rescue operations monsoon monitoring and inspection visits by officials according to the departmentâs annual report released last monthThe bidding process for the tender is expected to conclude by March 19 and procurement of the boats may take around five months after the process is completedMeanwhile the Delhi government has also procured a 40seater vessel for a proposed cruise service on the Yamuna between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur The project aims to introduce recreational cruises and ferry services on the river though the launch of the service has been delayed IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/delhi-govt-floats-tender-for-two-vip-boats-worth-rs-62-crore-for-yamuna-monitoring-665543.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-powering-robust-energy-ecosystem-shaping-sustainable-atmosphere-pm-modi-665547.html New Delhi March 18 India is powering a robust energy ecosystem and shaping a sustainable atmosphere for future needs as well Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday Highlighting a featured article by Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar regarding the evolution of Indiaâs energy sector the Prime Minister encouraged readers to engage with the piece to get an exact idea of Indias energy policies that promise a Viksit BharatUnion Minister Shri mlkhattar reflects on how India is powering a robust energy ecosystem and shaping a sustainable atmosphere for the future needs as well Read this piece to get an exact idea of Indias energy policies that promise a Viksit Bharat said PM ModiKhattar highlights the extraordinary transformation of the power sector over the last decade â from illuminating every household to making power shortage virtually zero for all practical purposesTo witness this remarkable journey explore the future of technology innovation and the road ahead come and join the BharatESummit from 19th March to 22nd March at Yashobhoomi he posted on XAccording to the minister India has added significant generation and transmission capacity bringing national energy shortages down from 42 per cent in FY 201314 to 003 per cent by FY 202526In FY 202526 alone up to January 2026 a record 5253 GW capacity from all sources has been added the highest ever in a single year surpassing the previous best of 3405 GW in 202425 Khattar said in the articleMoreover total electricity generation has increased from 10202 billion units BU in FY 2014 to 1830 BU in FY 2025 Per capita consumption has risen from 957 kWh in 2014 to 1460 kWh in 2025 reflecting economic growth and improved accessâThis has ensured that every home farm and industry has the reliable power it needs and India is now the third largest producer and consumer of electricity in the worldâ the minister writes IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-powering-robust-energy-ecosystem-shaping-sustainable-atmosphere-pm-modi-665547.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mirwaiz-umar-farooq-condemns-targeted-killing-of-irans-ali-larijani-665548.html Srinagar March 18 Chief Kashmiri cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday condemned the targeted killing of Iranian National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani by the rogue state of Israel âCondemn the targeted killing of secretary Ali Larijani by the rogue state of Israel The resilience of the people of Iran and their leadership reflects the spirit of a true Muslim nation courageous steadfast with resolute faith in Allah Such people deserve to lead âAs the Qurâan reminds us And the end is for the righteous 7128 the Mirwaiz said in a post on XWhile other leaders of the Muslim world have exposed themselves as proxies bereft of courage and conviction he addedThe Mirwaiz also said the authorities had disallowed his participation in a sermon in Srinagar on WednesdayMeanwhile the fearful rulers of this police state have by force once again kept me away from the house of God in the holy month of Ramzan as I was to deliver a sermon at Gol Masjid in Karan Nagar today What a ShameAuthorities are taking no chances with the law and order situation in Kashmir in the aftermath of widespread antiUS and antiIsrael protests that erupted spontaneously in the Valley on March 1 after the news of the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei reached hereFirm handling of the situation by the police and the security forces ensured that there was no casualty or damage to public property during these protestsChief Minister Omar Abdullah had met civil society members from religious political social and business communities in Srinagar appealing for disciplined and dignified observance of grief and got a positive response from all sections of the society during the interaction IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mirwaiz-umar-farooq-condemns-targeted-killing-of-irans-ali-larijani-665548.html Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/house-democrats-seek-iran-war-answers-665394.html Washington March 17 The House Democrats are demanding that top officials from the Trump administration testify before the Congress about the diplomacy and decisionmaking that preceded the United States military conflict with Iran Representative Gregory W Meeks the ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Monday led all Democratic members of the panel in sending a letter urging Secretary of State Marco Rubio Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Presidential adviser Jared Kushner to appear before the committeeThe lawmakers said Congress must understand the diplomatic negotiations and planning that led to the conflictThese individuals both drawn from the real estate industry rather than diplomatic or national security backgrounds were placed in charge of one of the most consequential negotiations facing the United States the members wroteThe decisions made during this process have now resulted in an unauthorised military conflict with Iran with profound consequences for the security of the American people the stability of the Middle East and global energy markets that directly affect American familiesThe Democrats said Congress has a constitutional duty to examine how negotiations unfolded and what strategy guided the administration before the use of forceCongress has both a constitutional responsibility and a clear national interest in understanding how these negotiations were conducted what diplomatic strategy guided them and what planning preceded the use of military force the letter saidAccording to the lawmakers the US administration has repeatedly declined requests to allow Witkoff or Kushner to testify before the CongressYet despite repeated requests the Administration has declined to make Witkoff or Kushner available for testimony or briefing before Congress the letter addedThe Democrats also raised concerns that no public hearing has been held on the issueAt the same time the Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee has declined to hold a public hearing on these matters with Administration witnesses the letter said adding that congressional oversight during a military conflict is a fundamental part of the constitutional system of checks and balancesThe lawmakers said that if the US administration believes its Iran strategy has been justified it should be willing to explain its decisions publiclyIf the Administration believes its approach toward Iran has been successful and justified then it should welcome the opportunity to explain its decisions to Congress and the American people the members wroteThe letter formally asked the US President to direct Witkoff and Kushner to appear before the committee for a public hearing as soon as possibleIt also requested that Rubio and Hegseth testify so lawmakers can examine the US administrations strategy toward IranThe stakes of the current conflict including risks to US service members regional stability and the global economy demand transparency and accountability the lawmakers wroteCongress and the American people deserve a clear explanation of the diplomatic and strategic decisions that brought us to this momentThe letter was signed by Meeks and more than twenty Democratic members of the committee including Joaquin Castro William Keating Greg Stanton Pramila Jayapal Brad Sherman Jim Costa and Ami Bera IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/house-democrats-seek-iran-war-answers-665394.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 07:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-polls-vijay-rules-out-alliance-with-nda-to-go-solo-665407.html Chennai March 17 IANS Actorturnedpolitician Vijay has firmly dismissed speculation of an alliance with the BJPled National Democratic Alliance NDA announcing that his party TVK will contest the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections independentlynbspThe decision is set to reshape the electoral landscape paving the way for a highstakes fourcornered contest in the statenbspSpeaking at a meeting of TVK leaders in Pattinapakkam Vijay made it clear that the party has not engaged in alliance discussions with any political formationnbspWe are going to contest elections alone Go to the constituencies and intensify field work The list of candidates will be announced soon I will also tour across Tamil Nadu We will definitely win he said projecting confidence ahead of the partys maiden electoral battleVijays announcement comes amid recent reports suggesting that talks between TVK and the BJPled NDA were in advanced stagesnbspPolitical observers note that efforts had been made to turn the contest into a triangular fight by bringing TVK into the AIADMKBJP alliance However ideological differences and leadership ambitions appear to have derailed the negotiationsSources indicate that the BJP had offered TVK around 60 seats along with the Deputy Chief Ministers post In response TVK is believed to have sought a powersharing arrangement with Vijay as Chief Minister for the first half of the term a proposal reportedly rejected by AIADMK leadership including Edappadi K PalaniswamiWith TVK opting to go solo the electoral contest is now expected to feature four major fronts the DMKled alliance the AIADMKBJP combine Vijays TVK and Seemans Naam Tamilar Katchi NTK which is also contesting independentlyMeanwhile TVK has begun finalising its candidates with selections reportedly completed for around 60 constituencies The party is likely to release its full list and manifesto soon as it gears up for an aggressive statewide campaignVijay is likely to contest from Perambur while key leaders such as Aadhav Arjuna Villivakkam and Anand T Nagar are expected to be fielded Several other names including Rajmohan Arumugam Arul Prakasam and P Venkataraman are also under consideration as the party focuses on strengthening both its organisational and electoral presenceIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tn-polls-vijay-rules-out-alliance-with-nda-to-go-solo-665407.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/suspension-of-8-congress-mps-revoked-after-expression-of-regret-in-lok-sabha--665408.html New Delhi March 17 IANS The suspension of eight Opposition members of the Lok Sabha was revoked on Tuesday after a proposal moved by Kiren Rijiju the Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs following an expression of regret from the Congress leadership regarding the conduct of some MPsnbspThe suspended MPs Amrinder Singh Raja Warring Manickam Tagore Gurjeet Singh Aujla Hibi Eden C Kiran Kumar Reddy Prashant Yadaorao Padole S Venkatesh and Dean Kuriakose all belong to the Indian National CongressThe eight lawmakers had been suspended on February 3 for the remainder of the Budget Session after they were accused of disrupting proceedings in the House and throwing papers towards the Chair during a heated exchangeThe development came after Congress Chief Whip K Suresh conveyed regret over what he described as the inadvertent indiscretion by some members during the proceedingsFollowing this Parliamentary Affairs Minister Rijiju moved a proposal in the House seeking to revoke the suspension of the MPs The proposal received support from Dharmendra Yadav of the Samajwadi Party and Supriya Sule of the Nationalist Congress Party SPAddressing the House Rijiju emphasised the need for clearly defined boundaries to ensure smooth and effective functioning of parliamentary proceedingsRules are a convention of business he said while stressing that maintaining discipline and respecting parliamentary procedures was essential for the proper functioning of the legislatureHe also referred to earlier discussions between the Treasury benches and the Opposition regarding adherence to parliamentary rulesHighlighting the importance of maintaining decorum in the House he added If we form a Lakshman Rekha then it will be easy for the House to proceedYesterday we had mentioned that if the Opposition helps us follow the rule of the House and of the Speaker then we treasury benches will do the same If the Opposition agrees then we can reciprocate it Rijiju saidThe Parliamentary Affairs Minister also asked the Opposition to clarify its commitment to observing parliamentary norms in order to ensure smoother proceedings in the futureThe House subsequently revoked the suspension of the eight MPs through a voice vote allowing them to resume participation in the ongoing Budget SessionFollowing the revocation of their suspension the MPs visited the Parliament premises and paid tributes to Mahatma GandhiIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/suspension-of-8-congress-mps-revoked-after-expression-of-regret-in-lok-sabha--665408.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajinikanth-slams-tvk-leaders-untrue-claims-on-political-entry-says-truth-will-prevail-665439.html Chennai March 17 IANS Tamil superstar Rajinikanth on Tuesday refuted allegations made by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam TVK leader Aadhav Arjuna who had claimed that the actor stayed away from politics due to pressure from the DMKnbsp Calling the remarks untrue Rajinikanth asserted that time would ultimately reveal the truth Time wont speak but it waits and gives its answer Rajinikanth said in a brief but pointed response dismissing the claims as baselessnbspThe controversy stems from a protest organised by TVK in Chennai on March 12 during which Aadhav Arjuna the partys general secretary election campaign management alleged that the DMK leadership had threatened Rajinikanth and prevented him from entering politicsnbspThe remarks quickly triggered political reactions and drew widespread attention given the actors longstanding association with political speculations in Tamil Nadu In his statement Rajinikanth categorically denied the allegations and clarified that his decision to stay away from active politics was entirely personalnbspHe also expressed gratitude to leaders across party lines who came out in his support following the controversynbspAmong those he thanked were Edappadi K Palaniswami Union Minister L Murugan Tamil Nadu Minister S Regupathy and BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran He also acknowledged support from Thol Thirumavalavan SP Velumani former BJP state president K Annamalai BJP leader Arjunamoorthy PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss Tamil Maanila Congress Moopanar President G K Vasan and TMMK leader John Pandian among othersnbspRajinikanths political journey has long been a subject of intense public interest On December 3 2020 he formally announced his intention to enter politics raising expectations of a major shift in Tamil Nadus political landscape However within weeks he withdrew from the plan citing health concerns and the risks posed by the Covid19 pandemicnbspThe latest controversy has once again brought his political decisions into focus even as he maintains that his choices were made independentlyIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajinikanth-slams-tvk-leaders-untrue-claims-on-political-entry-says-truth-will-prevail-665439.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-assembly-passes-freedom-of-religion-bill-to-curb-forced-conversions-665442.html Mumbai March 17 The Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill2026 was passed after a heated debate on late Monday night in the state Legislative Assembly The ruling Mahayuti government strongly defended the necessity of the Bill to curb the unlawful and forced conversion while cracks surfaced within the Maha Vikas Aghadi government after the Shiv SenaUBT extended its support but other allies including Congress NCPSP and Samajwadi Party opposed the bill The Bill will now be referred to the Legislative Council for passage Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that the Bill âis not directed against any specific religion Instead he emphasised that it is being introduced solely to prevent religious conversions carried out through coercion fraud or allurementThe Chief Minister explained the governments stance while addressing the Legislative Assembly The Bill titled the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Act 2026 was tabled in the House on Friday by the Minister of State for Home Rural Dr Pankaj Bhoyar to curb conversions happening via baiting deception or forceCM Fadnavis noted that anticonversion laws are already in effect in several states including Odisha Arunachal Pradesh Meghalaya Chhattisgarh Jharkhand Uttarakhand Himachal Pradesh Uttar Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Haryana Karnataka and Rajasthan Following this trend Maharashtra has decided to implement a similar lawHe stated that Article 25 of the Indian Constitution grants every citizen the right to freedom of religion the right to profess practice and propagate ones faith However converting someone through fraud pressure force or temptation is inherently wrong making this law necessary to curb such incidents âIndividuals wishing to convert voluntarily must follow a legal process The person must inform authorised officials about the conversion Competent authorities will verify that the conversion is indeed voluntary before granting approvalâ he saidSupporting the Bill Bhaskar Jadhav of the Shiv SenaUBT said it aims to protect the right to religious freedom and prevent illegal religious conversions It is comprehensive and does not target any specific religion despite rumours or misconceptions The objective is to curb unethical practices and misuse of religion that harm individuals or communitiesJadhav said there are false claims in the media suggesting that the Bill targets a particular religion this is incorrect The bill applies to all religions equally and its intent is to prevent coercion or inducement in religious conversionDuring the debate the NCPSP MLA Jitendra Awhad sparked a major controversy in the Legislative Assembly while speaking on the Maharashtra Freedom of Religion Bill2026 During his speech Awhad cited various historical instances However an uproar erupted in the House when he made a specific reference regarding the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Speaker Rahul Narwekar directed Awhad to express regret after which the MLA tendered an apology to the House IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-assembly-passes-freedom-of-religion-bill-to-curb-forced-conversions-665442.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-revives-2008-cash-for-votes-scandal-on-15th-anniversary-of-wikileaks-disclosures--665445.html New Delhi March 17 IANS The Bharatiya Janata Party BJP on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the Congress party using the 15th anniversary of the WikiLeaks revelations to remind the nation of the 2008 cashforvotes scandalnbspnbspThrough a social media post the BJP alleged that the first Congressled United Progressive Alliance government at the Centre put democracy for sale to survive a crucial trust vote following the controversial IndiaUS nuclear dealnbspIn a post on its official X handle titled This Day That Year Taking you back 12 summers the BJP revisited the events of March 17 2011 when leaked diplomatic cables allegedly exposed a deeprooted bribery networkOn 17 March 2011 a shocking revelation linked to WikiLeaks sent ripples across Indias political landscape Leaked diplomatic cables alleged that during the crucial 2008 trust vote in the Parliament of India allies of the ruling Congress leadership displayed chests of cash to secure MPs support and save the government of Manmohan Singh the BJP said in the X postnbspThe scandal originally reached its peak in 2008 when three BJP MPs Ashok Argal Faggan Singh Kulaste and Mahabir Singh Bhagora shook the Lok Sabha by waving wads of currency notes on the floor of the House They alleged that they were offered Rs one crore each to abstain from votingThe vote was meant to test the governments legitimacy after the controversial IndiaUS nuclear deal Instead it became synonymous with the cashforvotes scandal a moment when the sanctity of Parliament was overshadowed by allegations that money was used to influence elected representatives it said in the postnbspThe BJPs Tuesday post emphasised this moment stating For a party that preaches and prides itself on the strength of its democracy the images of MPs waving bundles of cash inside Parliament remain unforgettableIt concluded the post saying A stark reminder of a dark chapter in Indias political history when the world was watching and serious questions were raised Did Congress put democracy for saleIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-revives-2008-cash-for-votes-scandal-on-15th-anniversary-of-wikileaks-disclosures--665445.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-mudra-yojana-continues-to-empower-small-entrepreneurs-with-collateral-free-loans-fm-sitharaman-665450.html New Delhi March 17 IANS Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has reaffirmed the transformative role of the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana PMMY in supporting smalltime entrepreneurs across India by providing collateralfree credit enabling millions to turn their business ideas into reality without the burden of security or guaranteesnbspAnswering a question in the Rajya Sabha on the schemes impact FM Sitharaman highlighted that PMMY offers loans under three main categories Shishu up to Rs 50000 Kishor Rs 50001 to Rs 5 lakh and Tarun Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh These tiers cater to businesses at different growth stages from startups to expanding ventures fostering financial inclusion for micro and small enterprises in the noncorporate nonfarm sectorAs of March 31 2025 the latest data reveals the recovery performance across categories The nonperforming assets NPAs or outstanding loans classified as stressed stand at 124 per cent against the total lent amount in the Shishu category 94 per cent in the Kishor category and 792 per cent in the Tarun categoryBanks are actively pursuing recovery measures to address these amounts reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain the schemes sustainability while supporting borrowersThe Finance Minister addressed concerns regarding the relatively low disbursement under the recently introduced Tarun Plus category which extends collateralfree loans up to Rs 20 lakh for entrepreneurs who have successfully repaid their previous Tarun loansLaunched following the Union Budget 202425 announcement and made effective from October 2024 Tarun Plus is designed to reward compliant borrowers and help scale their operations furtherFM Sitharaman explained that the scheme is only about a year old stating To revise this scheme properly we would like to give it some time as it is only a year oldShe emphasised the need for patience to allow the category to gain traction as more eligible entrepreneurs become aware and apply after demonstrating repayment disciplineSince its inception in 2015 PMMY has disbursed over Rs 32 lakh crore through more than 52 crore loans with provisional FY 202425 figures showing additional sanctions of around Rs 55 lakh crore A significant portion nearly 68 per cent has benefited women entrepreneurs promoting genderinclusive growth and grassroots economic empowermentThe government remains committed to expanding access to credit for small businesses with recent extensions and enhancements underscoring its focus on selfreliance and job creationFM Sitharamans remarks come amid broader discussions on financial sector health where overall MSME NPAs remain lower at around 36 per cent as of March 2025 compared to Mudraspecific figuresIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-mudra-yojana-continues-to-empower-small-entrepreneurs-with-collateral-free-loans-fm-sitharaman-665450.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/dedicated-to-shielding-our-youth-from-drugs-hm-amit-shah-greets-ncb-on-raising-day-665458.html New Delhi March 17 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended greetings to the personnel of the Narcotics Control Bureau NCB on the occasion of the agencys Raising Day on MondaynbspIn a post on X HM Shah said Warm greetings to NCB personnel on their Raising Day A premier agency dedicated to shielding our youth from drugs NCB shoulders responsibility with deftness and is advancing PM Narendra Modi Jis vision of drugfree India at remarkable pace Nation salutes their dedication and patriotismThe Bureau said in a post on social media Four decades of unwavering commitment to dismantling drug networks protecting communities and strengthening the vision of a drugfree IndiaEarlier this week the NCB said in a social media post DG NCB Anurag Garg and ONDCP Director USA Sara Carter saracarterdc along with their delegations met on the sidelines of 69th Session of UN Commission on Narcotic Drugs CND in Vienna AustriaDuring their meeting the two agreed to focus on sharing actionable intelligence between India and the US to strengthen counternarcotics cooperationnbspnbspRealtime sharing of information for expeditious parallel investigations in corresponding jurisdictions on transnational drug cartels was also discussed said the NCBBoth sides decided to convene the Pillar III meeting of the USIndia Counter Narcotics Working Group CNWG in April 2026 said the NCBOn the occasion of its 41st Raising Day the NCB planned a Youth Outreach and Awareness Programme on Tuesday at Sri Venkateswara College DUOutreach programmes offer a platform to officials for spreading the message of a drugfree society and highlighting the importance of youth participation in the fight against drugs The programmes conducted for students reinforce the dangers of drug use and traffickingThrough the programme the NCB reiterates its commitment to creating a Drug Free India by involving enforcement agencies students and the general public in collective action against drug abuse and traffickingIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/dedicated-to-shielding-our-youth-from-drugs-hm-amit-shah-greets-ncb-on-raising-day-665458.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-is-entering-new-phase-in-global-trade-says-piyush-goyal-665461.html New Delhi March 17 IANS Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said Indias overall economic fundamentals remain strong with exports holding steady and multiple factors supporting the countrys external positionnbspSpeaking in the Lok Sabha the minister also said India is entering a new phase in international trade which will help expand its global footprint and bring longterm economic benefitsnbspWhile services exports continue to grow consistently every month merchandise exports have remained flat till February which means they have not declined he saidIn March there was some weakness in the first week but exports turned positive in the second week and are expected to stabilise by the end of the month he addedHighlighting the broader external sector Goyal said the current account deficit comprises several components including the goods trade deficit and the services trade surplus He noted that the services surplus remains significant and helps offset the merchandise trade gapHe also pointed out that India receives large remittance inflows and continues to attract strong foreign direct investment FDI with the country setting new records year after yearOverall Indias economic situation and fundamentals are very strong There is growing enthusiasm across the world to expand trade relations with India the minister saidGoyal added that in the past few years India has expanded trade engagement with several developed nations creating new opportunities for exportersHe also stressed that earlier free trade agreements FTAs were often signed with competing economies which posed challenges for domestic industriesHe said the government is now pursuing balanced trade agreements that will benefit Indian exporters farmers fishermen and micro small and medium enterprises MSMEsReferring to the proposed trade pact with the United Kingdom Goyal said efforts are on to operationalise it soon possibly as early as next monthAs these agreements become operational they will open new markets for Indian products and services creating vast opportunities for exporters he saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-is-entering-new-phase-in-global-trade-says-piyush-goyal-665461.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-dy-cm-eknath-shinde-meets-pm-modi-in-delhi-slams-oppn-for-politics-over-war-665464.html New Delhi March 17 IANS Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief leader Eknath Shinde on Tuesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and accused the Congress and the Shiv SenaUBT of triggering panic by spreading rumours of fuel and gas shortagesnbspHe warned that such misinformation only benefits black marketers and hoardersHe compared the current Opposition tactics to their behaviour during Operation Sindoor alleging that their statements are often used by Pakistani media to target IndiaSpeaking to reporters Deputy Chief Minister Shinde launched a scathing attack on Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and other opposition partiesHe described the act of politicising a warlike situation as unfortunate and antinationalIt is deeply regrettable that some are spreading false propaganda in India to create headlines in Pakistan For Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray it was always Country First Politics Later We are moving forward with those same values Deputy Chief Minister Shinde saidHe added that the discussions with Prime Minister Modi primarily focused on the ongoing IranIsrael conflict domestic security and various development issues concerning MaharashtraReiterating the Shiv Senas unwavering stance as an NDA ally Deputy Chief Minister Shinde assured the Prime Minister that Shiv Sena stands firmly with the Central governments decisions during this global crisisHe updated PM Modi on the successful return of Maharashtra residents who were stranded in Kuwait Dubai and Muscat due to the escalating tensions in the GulfHe expressed gratitude for the Prime Ministers diplomatic efforts noting that Indias strong relations with Gulf nations ensured the safe passage of two Indian oil tankers through the Strait of HormuzHe also said that detailed deliberations were held regarding ongoing developmental projects and administrative matters in MaharashtraDeputy Chief Minister Shinde also lauded the unopposed election of Shiv Sena Spokesperson Jyoti Waghmare to the Rajya SabhaDescribing Jyoti Waghmare as highly educated and rooted in the struggles of the poor Eknath Shinde expressed confidence that the former would effectively represent the common mans voice in the ParliamentHe also met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in his Parliamentary officeThe meeting was attended by Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Piyush GoyalIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/maha-dy-cm-eknath-shinde-meets-pm-modi-in-delhi-slams-oppn-for-politics-over-war-665464.html Tue, 17 Mar 2026 17:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/voting-for-two-rajya-sabha-seats-in-haryana-begins-amid-cross-voting-fears-665352.html Chandigarh March 16 Voting for the two Rajya Sabha seats in Haryana began here on Monday with the counting of ballots to begin at 5 pm Three candidates are in the fray They are BJPâs Sanjay Bhatia Congressâ Karamvir Boudh a Dalit activist and BJPbacked Independent candidate Satish NandalChief Minister Nayab Singh Saini cast the first vote of the dayFearing crossvoting the Congress which has 37 legislators in the 90member House had moved its MLAs to resorts and hotels in Himachal Pradesh Six among them did not go to Himachal for personal reasonsOn Sunday night the Congress shifted 31 legislators from Shimla to Kasauli Accompanying party general secretary and in charge of Haryana BK Hariprasad and Rohtak MP Deepender Hooda all the lawmakers on Monday morning were taken directly in a convoy from their hotel to Chandigarh amidst tight securityOn reaching Chandigarh all the MLAs first will arrive at Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Hoodaâs residence in Sector 7 After having breakfast there all of them will proceed to cast their votes in the legislative AssemblyWith 47 legislators this will be CM Sainiâs first major political test since assuming charge Winning both seats would be seen as a testament to his strong political grip and strategic acumenâA victory could further elevate his stature and influence within the party high commandâ admitted a senior BJP ministerA candidate requires 31 votes to win With its 48 votes the BJP can easily secure one seatThe Congress has 37 votes It is too in a position to win a seatThe BJPs remaining 17 MLAs along with three Independent voters are expected to cast votes for BJPbacked Independent candidate NandalIf the two votes from the Indian National Lok Dal INLD go to Nandal he will still require additional nine votes The INLD may either support the BJP or abstain from backing NandalThe two Rajya Sabha seats would fall vacant as BJP members Kiran Choudhry and Ram Chander Jangra are set to complete their terms on April 9In the past two instances of vote cancellations during the Rajya Sabha polls came to light that altered the election resultsIn 2016 the votes of 14 Congress MLAs were declared invalid At that time pens other than the prescribed ones containing purple ink were usedThe cancellation of the 14 votes paved the way for the victory of Independent candidate Subhash Chandra who was backed by the BJPIn 2022 the vote of one Congress MLA was declared invalid Consequently Ajay Maken lost to the BJPbacked Independent candidate Kartikeya Sharma IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/voting-for-two-rajya-sabha-seats-in-haryana-begins-amid-cross-voting-fears-665352.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cuttack-hospital-fire-pm-modi-expresses-grief-announces-rs-2-lakh-assistance-for-families-of-deceased-665353.html New Delhi March 16 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed distress over the loss of lives in the tragic Cuttack hospital fire incident in Odisha and announced an exgratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Ministers National Relief Fund PMNRF for the families of the deceased The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday when a major fire broke out in the Intensive Care Unit ICU of the trauma care centre at SCB Medical College and Hospital According to reports at least 10 patients lost their lives while several others suffered serious burn injuries in the blazeIn a post on X the Prime Ministers Office PMO said The mishap at a hospital in Cuttack Odisha is deeply painful Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones I pray for the speedy recovery of the injuredIt further added that an exgratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased Additionally the injured would be given Rs 50000The raging blaze erupted at around 230 am to 3 am due to a suspected electric short circuitAfter meeting the injured patients at the hospital and reviewing the situation Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also announced an exgratia of Rs 25 lakh each for the family members of the deceased patientsHe also ordered a judicial inquiry into the tragic incident and assured stringent action against anyone found guilty of negligence in duty leading to the infernoSpeaking to media persons CM Majhi said A few hours ago a major fire broke out in the trauma care unit of SCB Medical College and Hospital due to a suspected short circuit As a result the patients undergoing treatment in the Trauma Care ICU an adjoining ICU and ward were affectedAfter the fire broke out 23 patients undergoing treatment on the first floor of the Trauma Care ICU were shifted to safer locations Seven critically ill patients died during the shifting process while three others succumbed after being moved to other ICUs It is very unfortunateHe offered condolences to the family members of deceased patients and offered his prayers to Lord Jagannath for the speedy recovery of injured patients Majhi also informed that he had instructed the Health Department to ensure advanced treatment for those who sustained severe injuries and are currently undergoing treatment in other ICUs and wardsThe Chief Minister further noted that as many as 11 hospital staff members including security personnel risked their lives to help rescue patients Many of them also sustained injuries due to smoke inhalation and flames during the shifting of patients but they are now stable and undergoing treatment in a ward on the ground floorAfter our government came to power I had earlier directed the department to inspect and take action regarding fire safety measures at all hospitals across the state In the current budget for 2025â26 we have allocated Rs 320 crore for strengthening fire safety measures and the work is being carried out on a war footingIn the coming financial year 2026â27 Rs 400 crore has been allocated for this purpose the Chief Minister saidChief Minister Majhi instructed officials of all departments to ensure the installation of advanced fireextinguishing systems in hospitals across the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cuttack-hospital-fire-pm-modi-expresses-grief-announces-rs-2-lakh-assistance-for-families-of-deceased-665353.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-polls-expelled-cpi-m-leader-kunhikrishnan-enters-payyannur-fray-665360.html Kannur Kerala March 16 A dramatic political contest is unfolding in the northern Kerala constituency of Payyannur after expelled veteran Left leader V Kunhikrishnan announced on Monday that he will contest the upcoming Assembly elections as an Independent candidate Kunhikrishnan once a hugely popular grassroots leader of the Communist Party of IndiaMarxist in Kannur district had been locked in a prolonged and bitter confrontation with the partyâs local leadership over alleged misappropriation of funds meant for a martyrsâ memorial accountThe dispute had simmered for months before reaching a flashpoint when Kunhikrishnan published a book detailing his version of events and accusing certain party leaders of manipulating the issueFollowing the controversy he was expelled from the party ending decades of association with the CPIM in one of its traditional strongholdsDeclaring his independent candidacy Kunhikrishnan said he would take his case directly to the people of PayyannurI will meet every voter in the constituency and seek their support During the course of my campaign I will explain in detail why I was forced to take this step and why I have decided to contest he saidKunhikrishnan will take on sitting CPIM legislator T I Madhusoodanan whom he has openly accused of being the key figure behind the alleged manipulation that led to his expulsionThe contest assumes significance because Payyannur located in Kannur district has long been regarded as a Left bastion where internal party dynamics often play a decisive role in electoral outcomes and has never been lost by the CPIMIn the 2021 Assembly election Madhusoodanan secured a resounding victory winning the seat by a margin of more than 49000 votesHowever Kunhikrishnanâs entry as an independent candidate has now added a new dimension to the race raising the possibility of a split in the traditional Left vote bankPolitical observers are particularly watching the stance of the Congress which contests the seat as part of the United Democratic Front UDFThere is growing speculation on whether the Congress will extend tacit or open support to Kunhikrishnan in a bid to weaken the CPIMâs prospectsIf such support materialises analysts believe the Payyannur contest could turn into one of the most closely watched battles in northern Kerala IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-polls-expelled-cpi-m-leader-kunhikrishnan-enters-payyannur-fray-665360.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/oil-prices-climb-nearly-4-pc-amid-escalating-west-asia-conflict-665366.html New Delhi March 16 IANS Global oil prices rose on Monday after the United States launched strikes on military assets on Kharg Island over the weekend escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf as the conflict entered its third weeknbspAt around 945 am Crude oil futures specifically the US benchmark West Texas Intermediate WTI surged by 377 per cent to 10244 while Brent crude the international benchmark traded at 10479 up 159 per cent from the previous closeThe surge in oil prices followed retaliatory attacks by Iran on Israel and several Arab states after US strikes targeted military facilities on Kharg Island which handles the bulk of Irans crude shipmentsUS President Donald Trump warned that Irans energy infrastructure on the island responsible for roughly 90 per cent of the countrys oil exports could face further attacks if Tehran disrupts shipping through the Strait of HormuzTrump said he was demanding that other nations help secure the key maritime passage that connects the oil and gas supplies of the Persian Gulf to global marketsWashington has reportedly urged major oilimporting partners such as China and Japan to deploy naval vessels to the Strait to ensure the safe movement of tankers Around onefifth of global oil shipments and significant volumes of seaborne liquefied natural gas pass through the waterwayThe US has also ordered the Navys Fifth Fleet to escort commercial vessels in the region in an effort to deter potential Iranian attacksThe strike on Kharg Island marks a further escalation in the conflict which according to the International Energy Agency IEA has already triggered the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has largely stalled since hostilities intensifiedMeanwhile the United Arab Emirates resumed loading operations at the key export hub of Port of Fujairah on Sunday a day after a drone strike temporarily halted shipments from the countrys primary export route while the strait remained blockedBrent crude surged about 11 per cent last week touching a high of 11950 per barrel levels last seen following Russias invasion of Ukraine before settling just above 103 per barrelIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/oil-prices-climb-nearly-4-pc-amid-escalating-west-asia-conflict-665366.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-discusses-hospital-fire-with-odisha-cm-reviews-relief-measures-665367.html Bhubaneswar March 16 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi over the telephone regarding the tragic fire incident at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack in which as many as 10 patients lost their lives and many were left injurednbspnbspTaking to his official X handle Odisha CM Majhi posted Honourable Prime Minister Shri narendramodiji spoke with me over the telephone regarding the tragic incident that occurred at SCB Medical College in Cuttack and held a detailed discussionnbspI apprised him of the emergency measures undertaken for all those affected the evacuation process and the specialised medical care being provided to them I also informed him about the highlevel judicial enquiry ordered by the state governmentCM Majhi also added that earlier in the day he personally visited SCB Medical College to review the situation and directed the administration to extend all possible assistance to the affected families and patients He noted that all departments concerned and response teams were working in close coordination to manage the situation and ensure proper care for the victimsThe Chief Minister also expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for his concern and assurance of necessary assistance during this sensitive timenbspI am grateful to the Honourable Prime Minister for his compassionate concern and his assurance of necessary support during this sensitive time wrote CM MajhiNotably PM Modi on Monday expressed distress over the loss of lives in the tragic Cuttack hospital fire incident in Odisha and announced an exgratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Ministers National Relief Fund PMNRF for the families of the deceasednbspCM Majhi also announced an exgratia of Rs 25 lakh each for the family members of the deceased patientsnbspAccording to reports the fire broke out around 2303 AM in a suspected electric short circuit claiming 10 lives and leaving several others injuredIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-discusses-hospital-fire-with-odisha-cm-reviews-relief-measures-665367.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/elections-scheduling-done-for-convenience-of-bjp-says-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-665372.html New Delhi March 16 IANSnbsp Opposition leaders including Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday raised concerns over the conduct and timing of Assembly electionsnbspnbspThe way elections are scheduled phases are created and dates are set I feel all of this is done for the convenience of the BJP Priyanka Gandhi saidnbspSimilarly Akhilesh Yadav alleged that administrative changes are often made ahead of elections in states where the ruling party at the Centre does not control the governmentWhenever elections take place if the Delhi government or the state government is not theirs the first thing they do is remove the DGP the Chief Secretary and other officials At that time the Bharatiya Janata Party which is against the government deliberately colluded with the government here in Delhi and with the Election Commission to remove officials Tell me in Uttar Pradesh has the DGP ever been removed Why is the DGP never removed there Whenever elections took place in UP how many complaints were made to the Election Commission Did the Election Commission ever remove anyone he askednbspThe Election Commission on Sunday announced the schedule for assembly polls in Assam Kerala Tamil Nadu West Bengal and the Union Territory of PuducherrynbspWhile polling for the Assam Kerala and Puducherry Assemblies will be held in a single phase on April 9 Tamil Nadu will also see singleday polling on April 23 while West Bengal will go to polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29 Counting for all will be held on May 4nbspHours after the Assembly polls were scheduled the Election Commission on Sunday ordered the removal of West Bengal Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty and Home Secretary Jagdish Prasad Meena Subsequently on Monday it shifted out the states acting DGP Piyush Pandey and Kolkata Police Commissioner Supratim Sarkar IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/elections-scheduling-done-for-convenience-of-bjp-says-priyanka-gandhi-vadra-665372.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-to-announce-assembly-poll-candidates-on-march-18-assam-cm-665373.html Guwahati March 16 IANS Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said that the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP will release its complete list of candidates on March 18 for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections to be held on April 9nbspnbspSpeaking to reporters here CM Sarma stated that the party will announce all its nominees in a single list signalling that the BJP has largely finalised its strategy for the crucial pollsnbspThe BJP will release the list of all its candidates on March 18 The entire list will be declared together Sarma saidSarma is travelling to New Delhi today to hold key discussions with the central leadership of the BJP regarding the finalisation of candidates for the upcoming Assembly pollsnbspThe Chief Minister also indicated that he will file his nomination for the upcoming Assembly elections on March 20nbspCM Sarma on Monday visited the Durga temple at Rani on the outskirts of Guwahati and offered prayers before leaving for New DelhiThe Chief Minister sought blessings at the temple as political activities intensify ahead of the electionThe announcement comes hours after the Election Commission of India recently declared the schedule for the Assam Assembly electionsnbspPolling for the 126member Assembly will be held in a single phase on April 9 while the counting of votes will take place on May 4With the poll schedule already announced political activities have intensified across the state as parties gear up to select candidates and finalise campaign strategiesThe BJP which currently leads the government in the state will contest the polls in alliance with its partners Asom Gana Parishad AGP and Bodoland Peoples Front BPFnbspAccording to sources the seat sharing formula among the coalition partners was finalised and the BJP will probably contest 90 seats in the 126member AssemblyThe rest of the seats will be given to its allies AGP and BPFnbspOver the past few weeks Sarma and other BJP leaders have been holding multiple organisational meetings to assess the partys preparedness and evaluate potential candidates across constituenciesnbspThe announcement of candidates is expected to trigger a major political push with rival parties also stepping up preparationsThe Opposition Congress has already begun releasing its lists of nominees and intensifying its campaign across the stateIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-to-announce-assembly-poll-candidates-on-march-18-assam-cm-665373.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pakistan-police-arrests-over-300-illegal-afghan-refugees-during-raids-in-swabi-665377.html Islamabad March 16 Over 300 illegal Afghan refugees have been detained by police during raids carried out in various parts of Swabi district in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa local media reported on Monday A crackdown had been launched after the district administration and police officials decision to deport illegal Afghans daily Dawn reported citing sources The police had ordered Station House Officers SHOs to keep data of all illegal Afghans in the jurisdictions of their police stationsAccording to sources 341 Afghan refugees were arrested during raids conducted in Topi Razaar Chota Lahor tehsils and other parts of Swabi on Sunday They mentioned that the raids will continue and all Afghan refugees who are illegally residing in Swabi will be detained and deported to AfghanistanAround 30000 Afghan refugees still live in various parts of Swabi with most of them having proper documentation while others stay illegally The sources revealed that these Afghan refugees were residing in Gandaf Refugees Camp and Gohati Refugees Camp and a large number of them were staying in various farming fields and cities Dawn reportedIn the past few months the district administration has been making efforts to ensure the repatriation of Afghan refugees at the earliest according to sources They further mentioned that the district administration had shut all the shops in the Gohati refugee camp However the refugees said that it is very difficult for them to shut their businesses so quickly as they have established them through hard work for over 40 yearsEarlier in February Afghanistans Minister of Agriculture Irrigation and Livestock Ataullah Omari slammed the neighbouring nations for their policy of deporting Afghan refugees saying that host nations have deported refugees breaching humanitarian principles human rights and refugee rightsHe stated that more than 45 million Afghan refugees have returned to Afghanistan from various nations since the start of the expulsion process Afghanistanbased media outlet Tolo News reported Our brothers were forcibly expelled from their homes They were hosted for nearly 40 years but in the end they were deported by force and in violation of humanitarian principlesHis statement came as Pakistan and Iran continue to deport Afghan refugees sparking concerns about Afghanistans capacity to resettle the returnees Some Afghan refugees who have recently returned to Afghanistan stated that they were forcibly deported from host nations and were not given the opportunity to take their belongings leaving everything behind in those countries IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pakistan-police-arrests-over-300-illegal-afghan-refugees-during-raids-in-swabi-665377.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/aap-to-contest-all-12-000-seats-in-gujarat-local-body-polls-665380.html Gandhinagar March 16 The Aam Aadmi Party AAP on Monday announced that it will contest all 12000 seats in the upcoming local selfgovernment elections in Gujarat The first list of candidates is expected to be released after a threeday screening process currently underway The announcement was made by the partyâs Gujarat president Isudan GadhviGadhvi said the party has decided to field candidates in every seat across municipalities taluka panchayats district panchayats and municipal corporations in the stateâIn the upcoming local selfgovernment elections the Aam Aadmi Party has decided to contest all 12000 seatsâ he saidAccording to the party Gujarat has been divided into seven zones for the candidate selection process with zonal election committees formed in each area These committees comprise a zone president central zone president observers and assembly incharges tasked with evaluating potential candidatesGadhvi said interviews of aspirants from constituencies under the stateâs 26 Lok Sabha segments were conducted between March 10 and 15Following the interviews candidates are being categorised into A B and C grades as part of the screening and assessment processâThe state election committee will deliberate on the names received from different zones for three days March 16 17 and 18 After the screening process the first list of candidates will be announced shortlyâ he saidHe added that the party had received applications from a wide range of individuals including social workers political leaders and party workersGadhvi said the party has adopted an âopen to allâ approach in candidate selection The party said the tickets will be given to ordinary citizens The party also referred to the byelection in the Umreth Assembly constituency which fell vacant following the recent death of sitting MLA Govind ParmarGadhvi said the party would finalise its strategy for the bypoll after consultations with both the state and national leadershipâIn the elections announced yesterday in five states the byelection for the Umreth Assembly constituency has also been declared We will discuss the matter with the state and national leadership before making a decisionâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/aap-to-contest-all-12-000-seats-in-gujarat-local-body-polls-665380.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-mohan-yadav-calls-on-pm-modi-briefs-welfare-schemes-investment-in-mp-665390.html New Delhi March 16 IANS Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Prime Ministers Office on Monday to discuss a roadmap for accelerating infrastructure investment and social welfare in the statenbspDuring the interaction Yadav briefed the Prime Minister on several ongoing and proposed projects aimed at boosting economic growth and improving infrastructure across the stateI met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi today and sought his guidance On this occasion I apprised the Prime Minister of the various programmes and activities being undertaken in the state under the Farmer Welfare Year initiative as well as the overall progress of the state Yadav saidHe said that the state government is working actively for the four priority groups identified by the Prime Minister farmers women the poor and the youthYadav provided a comprehensive briefing on the Farmer Welfare Year initiative a flagship program of his administrationWe are observing the Farmer Welfare Year with great enthusiasm and effectiveness We are doing excellent work by integrating the efforts of around 16 departments including animal husbandry fisheries horticulture and agriculture I am delighted that the Prime Minister has bestowed his blessings on our efforts to move forward and I am confident that the results of these endeavours will be positive in the future the CM saidThe discussion also highlighted the importance of close coordination between the central and state governments for the effective implementation of flagship schemes and development initiativesBoth leaders emphasised the need to ensure that welfare programmes reach citizens efficiently particularly in rural and semiurban areasThe meeting is seen as part of the Madhya Pradesh governments efforts to align its development agenda with national priorities while speeding up projects that contribute to economic growth and social welfareThe Chief Minister also thanked the Centre for its continued support for development projects and policy initiatives in the statePrime Minister Modi has bestowed his blessings on our efforts to move forward and the results of these endeavours will be seen Yadav said while interacting with the media at the Parliament complexThe CM also met Om Birla Speaker of the Lok Sabha at Parliament and shared a photograph of the meeting on his social media accountsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cm-mohan-yadav-calls-on-pm-modi-briefs-welfare-schemes-investment-in-mp-665390.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 16:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/raghav-chadha-flags-everyday-anxieties-of-indians-in-rs-proposes-practical-reforms-665391.html New Delhi March 16 IANS Aam Aadmi Party AAP Rajya Sabha member Raghav Chadha on Monday raised what he described as three everyday anxieties faced by ordinary Indians and urged the government to introduce constructive reformsnbspHis points included optional joint income tax filing for couples full tax exemption on disability pensions for all wounded soldiers and the abolition of penalties on bank accounts for not maintaining a minimum balanceSpeaking during the Budget Session debate in the Upper House Chadha said these three issues directly affect millions of citizens and require policy changes that would make the system more equitable and humaneHe described the first concern as the need to allow optional joint filing of income tax returns so married couples with uneven incomes are not penalisedAccording to Chadha the present system in India which permits only separate tax filing by spouses often disadvantages families where income distribution between partners is unequalElaborating on his point he said that in many households one partner earns substantially more while the other earns little or nothing In such situations the higherearning spouse ends up paying a larger amount in taxes because incomes cannot be combined for tax calculationHe pointed out that several countries including the United States and Germany permit couples to file taxes jointly Under such systems spouses can combine their income and make better use of available tax slabs often resulting in a lower overall tax burden for the householdChadha argued that introducing optional joint filing in India could help families manage their finances better without causing significant revenue loss to the government According to him such a reform would make the taxation framework fairer for households with uneven earningsThe second issue raised by the AAP leader related to disability pensions for defence personnel He said that historically disability pensions granted to soldiers injured during service were completely exempt from income taxHowever he said a recent policy change restricted the full tax exemption only to soldiers who are invalided out or medically boarded out of service due to their injuriesThose who continue to serve despite suffering disability or those who retire normally after sustaining injuries now face taxation on part or all of their disability pensions he saidChadha described the situation as unjust and potentially discouraging for soldiers who have sustained injuries while serving the countryThese are wounds received in service to the nation he said adding that such benefits should not depend on the type of discharge from the armed forcesHe urged the government to restore 100 per cent income tax exemption on disability pensions linked to servicerelated injuries regardless of whether the soldier continues in service or is invalided outThe third issue raised by Chadha concerned the penalties imposed by banks when account holders fail to maintain the required minimum balance in their savings or current accountsHe said banks frequently impose charges that can range from hundreds of rupees to even over a thousand rupees per month when account balances fall below the stipulated limitAccording to him these penalties disproportionately affect lowincome individuals rural residents and marginal account holders who struggle to maintain such balancesThe Rajya Sabha member also pointed out that banks have collectively collected thousands of crores of rupees over the years through such penaltiesThe bank should not treat this as a crime Bank accounts are meant to give financial security Instead of financial security they are giving us financial stress And we have transformed a banking system into a system in which poverty is punished he said during his addressHighlighting the burden faced by ordinary account holders he said that the minimum balance requirements vary depending on the location of bank branchesAccording to him urban branches typically require customers to maintain balances between Rs 5000 and Rs 10000 while semiurban branches require Rs 3000 to Rs 4000 and rural branches require between Rs 1000 and Rs 3000He said failure to maintain these balances often results in penalties ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 600 per monthEven on that charge we collect 18 per cent GST he said adding that the overall financial burden becomes even heavier for those who can least afford itChadha argued that such penalties contradict the goal of financial inclusion and discourage people from actively participating in the formal banking systemIf we want more people to be a part of the banking system for financial inclusion we have to protect small savings and not penalise them he saidIn his concluding remarks the AAP leader urged the government to abolish minimum balance penalties entirely particularly for basic savings accounts and said such a step would help promote financial inclusion across the countryIn the end I would just like to say that today the banks are penalising the poor and earning more profit and revenue rather than any other service due to which today the poor are becoming poorer he saidHe further appealed to the government to consider waiving such charges drawing a parallel with measures like farm loan waiversIn the end I would just like to say to the government to waive the penalty for the minimum account balance Just like we forgive farmers loans bank charges of Minimum Average Balance MAB should be abolished in this country and the poor should be included financially Chadha saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/raghav-chadha-flags-everyday-anxieties-of-indians-in-rs-proposes-practical-reforms-665391.html Mon, 16 Mar 2026 17:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chennai-plans-ev-charging-stations-to-boost-electric-mobility-665233.html Chennai March 15 The Greater Chennai Corporation GCC is preparing to install electric vehicle EV charging stations in several prominent neighbourhoods of the city as part of efforts to strengthen charging infrastructure and promote the adoption of electric mobility According to civic officials the charging stations will be set up in areas including Anna Nagar T Nagar Nungambakkam Adyar and Besant Nagar Each location will be equipped with two charging points allowing motorists to charge their electric vehicles while utilising nearby parking facilities The initiative is likely to support the growing number of electric vehicle users in Chennai including private vehicle owners as well as operators working in the appbased taxi logistics and delivery sectors With electric twowheelers and cars becoming increasingly common across the city the availability of accessible charging facilities in busy commercial and residential areas is expected to improve convenience for motorists who spend long hours on the road Civic authorities noted that the project also reflects the rising demand for public charging infrastructure as more residents transition to electric mobility The lack of easily accessible charging points has been a major concern for many EV users particularly in densely populated residential localities and commercial hubs The proposal for installing EV charging stations had earlier been raised during a council meeting by Ward 104 councillor TV Shemmozhi who highlighted the need for additional public charging infrastructure across the city The councillor had pointed out that many residents who had shifted to electric vehicles were facing difficulties locating charging facilities and urged the corporation to consider providing charging stations in residential areas Following the request Mayor R Priya announced that the corporation would establish charging stations in more than 15 locations across Chennai as part of a broader plan to support sustainable urban transport Officials said the EV charging stations would be developed alongside parking facilities under a revamped Smart Parking Management System which is being implemented through a publicprivate partnership model Integrating EV charging with designated parking areas is expected to optimise space usage and improve accessibility for motorists The civic body is likely to begin work on the project by the end of the year marking another step in Chennaiâs push towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation infrastructure IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chennai-plans-ev-charging-stations-to-boost-electric-mobility-665233.html Sun, 15 Mar 2026 08:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-trinamool-political-slugfest-continues-over-clashes-in-kolkata-665274.html Kolkata March 15 The political slugfest between the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP and Trinamool Congress continued on Sunday over clashes between the supporters of the two parties at Girish Park in central Kolkata The clashes occurred before the address of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the city on Saturday afternoon in which an inspector of Kolkata Police and a member of the West Bengal cabinet were reportedly injuredWith the police having arrested four persons in connection with the clashes so far following nightlong operations the West Bengal unit of the BJP has claimed that the action had been onesided The BJP has claimed that its supporters were targeted and tension was fuelled by the ruling party activists who attacked a bus carrying supporters to PM Modiâs rally at Brigade Parade Ground in central KolkataWhile neither the Trinamool Congress nor the BJP had registered FIRs in the matter the city police started an investigation after registering an FIR and arresting four persons three of whom are active BJP supporters namely Krishanu Bose Sunny Dey and Charanjit SinghBJP councillor in Kolkata Municipal Corporation Sajal Ghosh has claimed that none of the three BJP supporters arrested in connection with the case was present anywhere near the place of trouble when the clashes broke outâI challenge Kolkata Police to release the CCTV footage Let their mobile tower locations during the time of trouble also be released The police at the insistence of Trinamool Congress have arrested them unnecessarily and also slapped attempted murder charges on themâ Ghosh saidMeanwhile Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee condemned that development in which the West Bengal Minister for Women amp Child Development and Social Welfare Department Dr Sashi Panja was reportedly injured and said that it was not just an attack on a women minister but also an attack on every woman in the stateâThis is the BJPâs culture These outsiders want to import their politics of provocation to West Bengal They want to destroy peace They want to spread fear This will neither be forgiven nor forgotten West Bengal will not tolerate BJPâs saffron hooliganismâ said BanerjeeAlready on Saturday the Election Commission EC had sought a detailed report from the Kolkata Police Commissioner Supratim Sarkar on the clashesThe EC also sought a report on the attack on Minister Shashi Panjas residence in the aftermath of clashes from a senior state government officialThe poll panel further sought a detailed explanation as to why central paramilitary forces which have already been deployed in the state for the upcoming Assembly polls were not used to control the situation IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-trinamool-political-slugfest-continues-over-clashes-in-kolkata-665274.html Sun, 15 Mar 2026 17:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/eci-to-hold-press-conference-today-likely-to-announce-election-schedule-for-poll-bound-states-665275.html New Delhi March 15 The Election Commission of India will hold a press conference at 4 pm on Sunday at New Delhis Vigyan Bhawan During this the Commission will likely announce the poll schedule on Sunday for four states Assam West Bengal Kerala and Tamil Nadu and one Union Territory Puducherry After evaluating the election readiness in these states and UT recently the Commission is ready to finalise the election timetable The poll body has actively reviewed poll preparedness for the elections in several states including West Bengal on March 9 Kerala on March 6 and Tamil Nadu on February 26 Additionally the ECI reviewed Assams poll preparedness in February focusing on security and electoral rolls The Assam Assembly will conclude its term on May 20 whereas the Kerala Assembly will finalise its tenure on May 23 In Tamil Nadu the Assemblys term is scheduled to end on May 10 and in West Bengal it will finish on May 7Additionally the West Bengal Legislative Assembly consists of 294 total seats Assam consists of 126 Kerala consists of 140 and Tamil Nadu consists of 234 Meanwhile the Puducherry Legislative Assembly has a total of 33 seatsThe Commission interacted with political parties ensuring voter protection and assessing Central Armed Police Forces CAPF deploymentUntil the last elections District Magistrates including District Electoral Officers were authorised to determine the movement of the CAPF before during or after the polls while the MCC was in forceHowever this time as the Commission decided it will be the ECInominated police observers for the polls who will determine the CAPF movements for the respective districts IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/eci-to-hold-press-conference-today-likely-to-announce-election-schedule-for-poll-bound-states-665275.html Sun, 15 Mar 2026 17:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/terrorist-killed-as-army-foils-infiltration-bid-on-loc-in-jampks-uri-665276.html Jammu March 15 Alert troops of the Army foiled an infiltration bid on Sunday on the Line of Control LoC in Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmirâs Baramulla district and during the operation one terrorist was killed Srinagar headquartered Chinar Corps of the Army said on X âBased on a specific intelligence input provided by JKP regarding an infiltration attempt a joint operation was launched on intervening night of 1415 Mar 26 in Gen area Buchhar Uri sectorâAlert troops spotted suspicious movement of a terrorist in the thicket The ambush was readjusted and the terrorist was challenged resulting in terrorist opening indiscriminate fire In the Contact a Pak terrorist was eliminated the Army further saidWarlike stores including an AK rifle pistols and a large quantity of ammunition have been recovered by the troopsThe Army said that the antiinfiltration operation continuedMore details were awaitedEarlier one terrorist was gunned down while trying to cross the LoC on March 10 in the Nowshera sector in Rajouri districtThe Army had said that the movement of two terrorists was detected in the general area of Jhangar Nowshera along the LoC Responding with swift and calibrated combat action alert troops engaged the infiltrators triggering an exchange of fire In the ensuing engagement one Pakistansponsored terrorist was eliminated effectively thwarting any breach of the LoCArmy is deployed along the 740 kmlong LoC in Jammu and Kashmir The LoC is situated in Baramulla Bandipora and Kupwara districts of the Valley and in Poonch Rajouri and partly in Jammu district of Jammu divisionIn addition to the LoC JampK has a 240 kmlong international border situated in Samba Kathua and Jammu districts where the Border Security Force BSF is deployedThe Army and the BSF are deployed to prevent infiltration exfiltration drug smuggling and drone activity initiated from the Pakistani sideDrones are used by terror outfits with the help of Pakistans ISI to drop payloads of arms ammunition cash and drugs on the Indian side of the borderThese payloads are picked up by the overground workers OGWs of the terrorists and then passed on to the terrorists to sustain terrorism in the union territoryThe Army and BSF have deployed special hitech antidrone equipment along the border to check the drone menace while human surveillance and intelligence continue to monitor the activities on the border 247 Drones are used more often by the enemy along the international border rather than the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/terrorist-killed-as-army-foils-infiltration-bid-on-loc-in-jampks-uri-665276.html Sun, 15 Mar 2026 17:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-attacks-dmk-govt-over-womens-safety-says-cm-stalin-busy-making-reels-665284.html Chennai March 15 The BJP on Sunday hit out at the DMKled government in Tamil Nadu calling it incompetent inconsiderate and utterly insensitive over its handling of sexual assault cases in the pollbound state Comparing the Tamil Nadu government to modernday Nero BJP National Spokesperson CR Kesavan said Nero merrily played the fiddle when Rome was burning and when brutal sexual assaults and violent attacks are happening in broad daylight on our mothers daughters and sisters in Tamil Nadu the DMK government led by MK Stalin who is also the Home Minister is busy making reelsHe further added that the DMK government has failed to protect the women of Tamil Nadu The government has utterly failed the responsibility and the women in Tamil Nadu do not feel safe or secure The sexual assaults on women have shaken the conscience of the entire country This is the pathetic state of affairs in Tamil Nadu he told IANSThe BJP leader also accused the opposition leaders from the Congress party and TMC of being hypocrites for not taking a stand on the issueHe said Why are our leaders from the allies of the opposition parties of the DMK like Congress and TMC keeping quietSonia Gandhi Mamata Banerjee Priyanka Gandhi Vadra they write editorials tweet furious statements and carry badges to Parliament saying that they are highlighting the distress of women in other countries But when it is happening in Tamil Nadu why havent they picked up their phones and spoken to MK Stalin to share their worry concern or anger This is the hypocrisy of the opposition parties he saidMentioning a recent case where a 17yearold Class 12 girl student was allegedly found murdered near Kulathur in Thoothukudi district Kesavan said Reports say that if authorities had intervened at the right time when the parents went to file a complaint about the missing girl her life could have been savedHe added When the Thoothukudi MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi went there with other DMK leaders they had to face the anger and resentment of the public so much so that the local people started shouting slogans and almost chased them awayWith Assembly elections around the corner he said the day is not very far when the people of Tamil Nadu will chase away the DMK government from the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-attacks-dmk-govt-over-womens-safety-says-cm-stalin-busy-making-reels-665284.html Sun, 15 Mar 2026 17:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/aap-announces-14-candidates-for-assam-assembly-elections-665286.html Guwahati March 15 The Aam Aadmi Party AAP on Sunday announced its first list of candidates for the upcoming 2026 Assam Assembly elections naming 14 nominees across several constituencies in the state According to an official announcement issued by the party the list includes candidates from constituencies spread across Upper Assam Central Assam and parts of Lower AssamThe announcement was made through a notification signed by Rajesh Sharma State Prabhari of AAP for AssamAs per the list Achyut Das has been fielded from Naoboicha constituency while Pulin Gogoi will contest from Dergaon Jarboam Kutum has been nominated from Gohpur and Anurupa Dekaraja from Central GuwahatiThe party has also announced Ashis Hazarika from Khumtai and Tapan Gogoi from Sibsagar Tikendra Thapa has been named as the candidate from Rongangadi In Lower Assam Zahidu Islam Khan will contest from Chenga while Ranjeet Boro has been nominated from NaduarPallav Saikia has been fielded from Titabar constituency From the East Goalpara Assembly seat the party has nominated Jinna Amir Hussain while Barun Bikas Das will contest from RahaIn the hill district seat of Bokajan Renuka Timungpi has been named as the candidate The party has also named Ananta Gogoi as its nominee from Biswanath constituencyWith the announcement of the first list the Arvind Kejriwalled party has formally begun its electoral preparations in Assam ahead of the 2026 Assembly pollsParty leaders said the candidates were selected after consultations with state leaders and local unitsAAP which has been attempting to expand its organisational base in the northeastern state is likely to announce additional candidates in the coming daysMeanwhile the Congress party on Saturday released its second list of 23 candidates for the upcoming Assam Legislative Assembly elections further intensifying the partyâs campaign preparations in the stateSo far Congress has declared candidates for 65 constituencies Earlier it had announced its first list of 42 candidates signalling an early start to its electoral campaign in the politically crucial northeastern stateThe Assam Assembly elections are expected to witness a multicornered contest as major political parties gear up to finalise their candidates and campaign strategies in the coming weeks IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/aap-announces-14-candidates-for-assam-assembly-elections-665286.html Sun, 15 Mar 2026 17:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-only-g20-nation-with-no-change-in-petrol-prices-despite-global-crisis-bjp-665163.html New Delhi March 14 The BJP highlighted on Saturday that petrol prices in India have remained unchanged at Rs 9477 per litre despite sharp increases in many major economies The party attributed this stability to Prime Minister Narendra Modis handling of the global energy crisis triggered by escalating USIran tensions since late FebruaryIn a post on X BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari claimed that India had managed to maintain fuel price stability despite global markets witnessing significant volatilityIndia is the only country in G20 where despite global energy crisis there has been no change in petrol prices since February Bhandari wroteTaking a swipe at the Opposition the BJP spokesperson alleged that the Congress party and its leaders were unable to accept the governments handling of the economic situation during the ongoing crisisThis is what makes Rahul Gandhi go crazy Congress and Rahul are unable to digest the fact that under PM Narendra Modi India is navigating through the global energy crisis with least impact on the common man he saidBhandari also shared a comparative table showing petrol price increases in several G20 nations citing figures based on media reportsAccording to the data shared petrol prices in the United States have risen by 22 per cent in China by 11 per cent in Germany by 15 per cent and in Japan by around 8 per cent during the same periodThe global energy market has been under intense pressure following escalating tensions between the US and Iran which intensified into open conflict in late FebruaryThe crisis deepened after joint US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets reportedly began on February 28 killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali KhameneiThe conflict has severely disrupted global oil markets creating one of the most serious supply shocks in recent decades A key factor has been the Strait of Hormuz a crucial maritime passage through which roughly 20 per cent of the worlds daily oil supply and a similar proportion of Liquefied Natural Gas normally passIn response to the attacks Iran has effectively blockaded or heavily restricted shipping through the strait causing tanker movements in the area to drop by more than 90 per cent during certain periodsTehran has also carried out attacks on oil tankers and energy infrastructure in the Gulf region further adding to supply concernsAt the same time production and exports from several regional oil producers including Saudi Arabia the United Arab Emirates Iraq and Kuwait have been affected by precautionary shutdowns or reduced outputAmid the disruption Iran has now granted safe passage to Indianflagged vessels through the Strait of Hormuz despite the wider restrictions imposed on global shipping and an LPG tanker sailing to India crossed the Strait of HormuzThe development follows a series of highlevel diplomatic engagements between India and Iran including phone conversations between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas AraghchiPrime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday to review the rapidlyevolving situation in the West Asia regionIn a post on X the Prime Minister expressed concern over the escalating tensions and highlighted the humanitarian impact of the conflictHe pointed to the loss of civilian lives and the damage to critical infrastructure caused by the hostilitiesThe Prime Minister also emphasised that the safety and security of Indian nationals in the region remains the governments top priorityIn addition he underlined the importance of maintaining the uninterrupted movement of goods and energy supplies through global trade routes noting that prolonged disruptions could have farreaching implications for Indias economy as well as for broader regional stability IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-only-g20-nation-with-no-change-in-petrol-prices-despite-global-crisis-bjp-665163.html Sat, 14 Mar 2026 09:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ips-transfers-sps-of-22-districts-transferred-in-rajasthan-665167.html Jaipur March 14 The Rajasthan government late on Friday night abruptly replaced the Police Superintendents of 22 districts Including these 22 SPs the Rajasthan government transferred a total of 64 officers belonging to the Indian Police Service IPS Among these 9 officers who were promoted from the rank of Police Superintendent have been appointed as Deputy Inspectors General DIGSeveral officers associated with the Cyber Crime wing the AntiCorruption Bureau ACB and the AntiNarcotics wing have also been transferredAccording to the orders issued by the Department of Personnel Ajay Singh has been appointed as Additional Commissioner of PoliceI in Jaipur Yogesh Yadav has been transferred from the AntiNarcotics wing to the ATS as DIG and Rashi Dogra Dudi has been transferred from her post as SP Jaipur Rural to assume the responsibility of DIG in the CIDCBVinay Kumar DH has been appointed as the AidedeCamp ADC to the Governor DIG Anand Sharma has been posted to the JDA Ramamurthy Joshi has been appointed as DIG ACB Udaipur and Sumit Mehrada has been appointed as SP Cyber Crime JaipurMonika Sen has been posted as SP in Pali Dr Amrita Duhan in Udaipur PD Nitya in Jaipur Rural and Jayeshtha Maitreya in Banswara Ranjita Sharma has been appointed as Deputy Commissioner of Police DCP for Jaipur City East while Prashant Kiran has been appointed as Deputy Commissioner of Police DCP for Jaipur City WestRanjita Sharma belongs to the 2019 batch while Prashant Kiran is an officer from the 2021 batchNischay Prasad M a 2021batch officer has been appointed as the Deputy Commissioner of Police Traffic in JaipurPushpendra Singh Rathore has been appointed as the Superintendent of Police SP for Sirohi while Kamal Shekhawat has been posted as the Deputy Commissioner of Police DCP for Jodhpur West both officers were previously stationed in JaipurThe AntiNarcotics Task Force has been strengthened to tighten the grip on drugrelated crimesDIG Yogesh Yadav has been transferred from this force to the ATS and DIG Abhijit Singh has been appointed to replace himAdditionally Amit Jain has been posted as the SP within this same force IG Vikas Kumar is already stationed thereFollowing a recent administrative reshuffle several officers have been given new postings across districts in RajasthanSudhir Joshi has been posted to Jhunjhunu Sanjeev Nain to Jaipur Rural Narendra Singh to Barmer and Monica Sen to PaliGyan Chandra Yadav has been assigned to Churu while Narendra Singh Meena will serve in Hanumangarh and Mridul Kachhawa in BikanerSatveer Singh has been posted to KotputliBehror and Satnam Singh to PhalodiHarsh Vardhan Agarwala has been appointed in Ajmer Dr Amrita Duhan in Udaipur and PD Nitya in Jodhpur RuralPiyush Dixit has been posted to Karauli Bishanaram to Salumber and Pushpendra Singh Rathore to Sirohi Avneesh Kumar Sharma will take charge in Bundi while Jayeshtha Maitreyi has been posted to BanswaraBrijesh Jyoti Upadhyay has been appointed in Bhiwadi and will also hold additional charge of KhairthalTijaraHari Shankar has been posted to Sri Ganganagar Hemant Kalal to Rajsamand Kamble Sharan Gopinath to Deeg and Roshan Meena to Nagaur IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ips-transfers-sps-of-22-districts-transferred-in-rajasthan-665167.html Sat, 14 Mar 2026 10:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/football-icons-enter-political-chatter-but-vijayan-opts-out-as-spotlight-turns-to-sharaf-ali-665185.html Thiruvananthapuram March 14 With the Assembly elections round the corner two legendary names from Keralaâs footballing circles IM Vijayan and U Sharaf Ali had been doing the rounds in political corridors triggering speculation about whether the sporting icons would step onto a new field of play However on Saturday IM Vijayan put an end to the speculation making it clear that he is not interested in contesting the pollsThe development has now turned the spotlight squarely on Sharaf Ali who is widely expected to be fielded by the CPIMled Left Democratic Front from the footballcrazy Nilambur constituency in Malappuram districtHis name is a certainty as just the other day he resigned as President of the Kerala State Sports Council which he took over in 2023Vijayan one of Indiaâs most celebrated footballers and a former captain of the national team had been widely speculated as a possible entrant into electoral politicsThe former striker who formed a formidable attacking partnership with Bhaichung Bhutia in the late 1990s and early 2000s remains one of the most recognisable faces in Indian footballHaving scored 29 international goals in 72 appearances for India and captained the national side between 2000 and 2004 Vijayan later ventured into coaching and grassroots development establishing a football academy in his hometown to nurture young talentHe was honoured with the Arjuna Award in 2003 and more recently the Padma Shri in 2025 for his contribution to the sportVijayan last year retired from the Kerala Police he worked in two different stintsSharaf Ali meanwhile brings a different profile to the political pitchA former Indian international defender from Malappuram he was part of the celebrated Kerala Police football team that dominated domestic football in the 1990sAlongside players such as VP Sathyan and CV Pappachan Sharaf played a key role in strengthening the Kerala side that won the Santosh Trophy in 1992 and 1993Sharaf also represented India in the 1994 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and later rose through the ranks of the Kerala Police eventually serving as a commandantIn recent years he moved into sports administrationWith Vijayan stepping aside from electoral politics the political contest in Nilambur may now well hinge on Sharaf Ali a footballer whose popularity in Malappuramâs football heartland could translate into valuable political capital as the campaign gathers momentumHe will be taking on sitting Congress legislator Aryadan Shoukath who won his first election in a byeelection last year IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/football-icons-enter-political-chatter-but-vijayan-opts-out-as-spotlight-turns-to-sharaf-ali-665185.html Sat, 14 Mar 2026 12:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-faces-internal-jostling-over-tickets-ahead-of-kerala-polls-665189.html Thiruvananthapuram March 14 With Assembly elections in Kerala drawing closer the Congress party is witnessing intense activity as leaders and aspirants line up to secure party tickets Though the Election Commission is expected to announce the poll schedule next week party offices in Thiruvananthapuram and New Delhi are already buzzing with activity Aspirants have stepped up lobbying efforts making a strong push to stake their claim for seats in the upcoming electionsAs the countdown to the polls begins the familiar preelection drama within the Congress has once again taken centrestage a spectacle political observers say is almost as predictable as the monsoonIn the Kerala unit of the party the process of candidate selection often resembles an open contest rather than a quiet closeddoor exercise From senior leaders to relatively new faces many have publicly expressed their ambitions leaving party workers both amused and anxiousAmong those staking claim for tickets are former Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee president and Lok Sabha MP K Sudhakaran along with leaders such as Deepthi Mary Varghese Babu Divakaran former Speaker N Sakthan and former Deputy Speaker Palode Ravi besides several others waiting patiently for their turnThe stakes are significant The Congress currently has 22 MLAs in the 140member Assembly but that number is expected to change this time Senior leader K Babu has already announced his retirement from electoral politics while Rahul Mamkootathil has been expelled from the partyIn the coming election the Congress is expected to contest around 90 seats leaving the rest to its allies in the United Democratic Front The seat arithmetic has triggered intense lobbying with hopefuls pressing their claims publicly sometimes even before the party leadership has formally begun discussionsAttention has now shifted to New Delhi where senior leaders are reportedly working to finalise a candidate list that would create the least possible friction within the party a task easier said than doneHowever a senior Congress leader appeared unfazed by the current buzz âIn Kerala if things are quiet in the Congress that is when we should worryâ he remarked with a smile âWhen everyone speaks at once it only means the party is alive Eventually the dust settles and we fight the election as a united teamâMeanwhile Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan on Saturday urged the media to wait for the official announcement of candidatesâPlease allow us to decide at least who the partyâs candidates are Our list will be ready and published soon after the elections are announced When the media prepares its own list and puts it out how can I comment on it Our final list will be cleared and announced by the party high commandâ Satheesan saidFor now however the dust and the debate continues to swirl within the party as the state heads towards the Assembly polls IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-faces-internal-jostling-over-tickets-ahead-of-kerala-polls-665189.html Sat, 14 Mar 2026 13:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/chhattisgarh-to-recruit-assistant-professors-others-against-700-posts-in-govt-colleges-soon-665196.html Raipur March 14 In a significant step to bolster higher education and address longstanding vacancies the Higher Education Department of Chhattisgarh has initiated a largescale recruitment process for 700 posts in government colleges across the state The drive includes 625 Assistant Professors 50 Librarians and 25 Sports Officers The department has finalised subjectwise vacancy details and prepared a comprehensive reservation rosterProposals including educational qualifications recruitment rules categorywise breakdowns and draft syllabi for examinations were submitted to the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission on February 24 2026Once administrative formalities are completed the commission will issue the official notification and invite online applications from eligible candidates Among the Assistant Professor posts highdemand subjects such as Hindi English Sociology Political Science Physics Mathematics Chemistry Botany and Zoology each have 50 vacanciesEconomics History and Geography are allocated 25 posts each while Computer Applications has 15 Commerce leads with 75 and Law has 10 positions This distribution reflects the states priorities in core academic disciplines to enhance undergraduate and postgraduate teaching quality senior officials saidThe inclusion of 50 Librarian positions will improve library resources and research support in colleges while the 25 Sports Officers will promote physical education extracurricular activities and student wellness aligning with holistic development goalsThe Higher Education Department emphasised that these regular appointments would create a more robust academic environment benefiting thousands of students with consistent highquality instruction and better facilities To prevent any disruption in teaching during the recruitment phase the department has already arranged for guest faculty members many of whom hold PhD degrees and have cleared national eligibility tests like NET and SET to fill sanctioned posts temporarilyThese interim arrangements ensure continuity and adherence to the National Education Policy 2020 which stresses qualified educators and uninterrupted learning This recruitment follows earlier approvals from the Finance Department and the Chief Ministers directives to fill critical vacancies in higher educationIt comes amid ongoing efforts to reduce faculty shortages in Chhattisgarhs government colleges where hundreds of posts have remained vacant for years Eligible candidates including those with postgraduate degrees NETSET qualifications and relevant experience are advised to watch for the upcoming CGPSC advertisementThe process is expected to move swiftly offering a major employment opportunity in the public sector and contributing to improved higher education standards in the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/chhattisgarh-to-recruit-assistant-professors-others-against-700-posts-in-govt-colleges-soon-665196.html Sat, 14 Mar 2026 14:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kashmiri-pandit-org-panun-kashmir-expels-chairman-ajay-chrungoo-amid-allegations-of-foreign-links-665197.html Jammu March 14 Kashmir migrant Pandit organisation âPanun Kashmirâ said on Saturday that it has expelled its chairman Ajay Chrungoo from the organisation over alleged foreign links A circular issued by Panun Kashmir said today that the organisation has expelled its chairman Ajay Chrungoo from the organisation with immediate effect and ordered an enquiry into his alleged foreign links including a reported interaction with USbased Pakistani ISI agent Ghulam Nabi FaiâChrungoo has been replaced by Tito Ganjuâ the circular saidChrungoo was not immediately available for commentPanun Kashmir Our Own Kashmir is a sociopolitical organisation and movement that proposes a Union Territory in the Kashmir ValleyInitiated after the 1990 exodus of Kashmiri Hindus it demands a separate centrally administered homeland for the community specifically within the southern and eastern parts of the valleyThe demand was formalised through the Margdarshan Resolution of 1991 which demanded to establish a dedicated secure territory for Kashmiri Pandits who were displaced from the Kashmir Valley due to terrorismThe proposed homeland demands that the area be under central administration ensuring the safety cultural identity and political rights of the Pandit communityPanun Kashmir acts as a representative body for the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community focussing on rehabilitation and the recognition of their exodus as ethnic cleansingThe movement is strongly opposed to any autonomy for Jammu and Kashmir that might empower extremist elements and advocates for complete integration with IndiaThe movement is a prominent voice for displaced Pandits advocating for their safe return to a secured homeland within the Kashmir ValleyThe Panun Kashmir organisation has consistently pushed for a separate UT The organisation also strongly supported the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35AAnother political organisation Ikkjutt Jammu openly supports a separate Panun Kashmir for Kashmiri Pandits as well as the separation of Jammu Division from Kashmir IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kashmiri-pandit-org-panun-kashmir-expels-chairman-ajay-chrungoo-amid-allegations-of-foreign-links-665197.html Sat, 14 Mar 2026 14:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/regime-change-already-written-on-walls-and-in-minds-of-people-in-west-bengal-pm-modi-665218.html Kolkata March 14 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that a change in the government in West Bengal is inevitable now and that is already written on the walls and in the minds of the people of the stateThe inevitable regime change has been written on the walls and in the minds of people of West Bengal Everyone is chanting for bringing the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP to power in the state Everyone wants the Jungle Raj in Bengal to end now the Prime Minister noted while addressing a mega rally at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata which marked the end of the Parivartan Yatra of the party amid the forthcoming Assembly elections in West Bengal later this yearAccording to Prime Minister Modi immediately after coming to power in West Bengal in 2011 Trinamool Congress started nourishing itself by including the most notorious criminal elements of the previous Left Front government within the partyIn this way Trinamool Congress betrayed the people of West Bengal who ousted the Left Front and brought Trinamool Congress to power with a lot of hope Because of this abundance of criminal elements in the states rules there is corruption violence and ghastly crime against women everywhere in the state Behind every crime especially in cases of crime against women there is involvement of any Trinamool Congress leader he saidHowever the Prime Minister said the day is not far away when there will be rule of law in West Bengal with the BJP coming to powerNot a single criminal element will be spared I am telling you that the oppression of the people of West Bengal in the hands of the ruling Trinamool Congress will end shortly There will be the rule of law and not the law of the ruler in West Bengal There will be only one place for Trinamool Congress criminals which is behind bars Prime Minister Modi addedHe also said that with the state government and the ruling Trinamool Congress constantly encouraging illegal infiltration the sociodemographic picture in many districts in the state These illegal infiltrators are becoming a threat to the common people of the state especially women But these illegal infiltrators are the dedicated vote banks of the Trinamool Congress and hence they oppose the process of preparing a clear voters list the Prime Minister saidAccording to PM Modi the single aim of Trinamool Congress is to work for the development and welfare of the people of West Bengal and also not allow others to workThat is exactly why Trinamool Congress and the state government are opposing implementation of several centrallysponsored schemes in West Bengal he saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/regime-change-already-written-on-walls-and-in-minds-of-people-in-west-bengal-pm-modi-665218.html Sat, 14 Mar 2026 16:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-govt-in-punjab-to-bring-bill-to-ban-religious-conversions-says-hm-amit-shah--665226.html Moga March 14 IANS Sounding the poll bugle in Punjab where the Assembly elections are due early next year Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Saturday that under the current Aam Aadmi Party AAP government religious conversions have reached alarming levelsnbspA Bharatiya Janata Party BJP government in Punjab will bring its first Bill to ban religious conversions he told a large gathering in Moga that falls in the politically significant Malwa belt which accounts for 69 of the 117 Assembly seatsMaking it clear that the era of the BJP playing second fiddle in the state is over the Union Home Minister said Whenever we BJP came before you people of Punjab in the past we were the junior political ally But from today the BJP begins its campaign to form its own government in PunjabDonning the Sikh turban Home Minister Shah promised that the BJP if voted to power will make Punjab drugfree within two yearsSaying that the AAP government has become an ATM for AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal the Union Home Minister said The AAP formed a government with the promise of a change But in reality what is the Chief Minister here doing He is serving as the pilot of Kejriwal splurging the states coffers by flying him across India He has done nothing other than thatThe AAP government promised to give 25 lakh jobs They AAP promised to end the scourge of drugs in four months build 16000 government medicine shops increase widow pension and oldage pension to Rs 2500 per month build 16 medical colleges increase mining revenue by Rs 20000 crore promise MSP minimum support price on every crop and give Rs 5 lakh compensation to the victims of the Sikh riots Home Minister Shah said adding They AAP could fulfill none of these promisesThe AAP government here is the government of broken promises and corruption They are submerged up to their necks in corruption They can do no good for Punjab The Chief Minister should be ashamed of his silence in the face of the loot of the coffers of Punjab by leaders in DelhiTaking another jibe at the Bhagwant Mannled Punjab government Home Minister Shah said The AAP government has become the ATM of Kejriwal and this is a mockery of Punjabs honour Entire Punjab is today struggling with the problem of drugs law and order has ended three sarpanches have been killed right at the beginning of 2026 the gangsters are extorting money and an ASI has been killed right in the police stationQuoting one report the Union Home Minister said 45 per cent of the heroin trade in India takes place in Punjab aloneWe BJP promise you that if you bless us in the upcoming election then we will free Punjab from the scourge of drugs within two yearsCriticising the AAP the Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi for misleading the farmers about the trade deal signed with the US Home Minister Shah said They are saying that the deal has harmed the farmers This is a sheer lie Rather it is the UPA that agreed to stop paying MSP to farmers in 2013The Narendra Modi government has made the biggest buying at MSP from the farmers of Punjab Along with that the money reaches the bank account of the farmers within just two daysDuring the UPA government the agriculture budget of India amounted to Rs 22000 crore But the Narendra Modi government increased it to Rs 140000 crore Every farmer is paid Rs 6000 every year As many as 135 crore people receive funds under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi YojanaThe Congress never bought pulses at the MSP But we BJP arranged for 100 per cent purchase of pulses at MSP through NAFED We are buying maize at the MSP Home Minister Shah saidHe concluded by saying Punjab does not need a Chief Minister who can make people laugh but someone who can give good governanceIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/bjp-govt-in-punjab-to-bring-bill-to-ban-religious-conversions-says-hm-amit-shah--665226.html Sat, 14 Mar 2026 20:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/west-asia-war-pm-modi-speaks-to-iranian-prez-stresses-safety-of-indians-and-energy-transit-664986.html New Delhi March 12 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to review the serious situation unfolding in the West Asia region In a post on X PM Modi voiced concern over the escalation of tensions pointing to the loss of civilian lives and damage to infrastructureHe underlined that the safety of Indian nationals remains the governmentâs foremost priorityThe Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of unhindered transit of goods and energy noting that disruptions could have farâreaching consequences for Indiaâs economy and regional stabilityâThe safety and security of Indian nationals along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy remain Indiaâs top prioritiesâ he wrotePM Modi reiterated Indiaâs commitment to peace and stability urging all sides to embrace dialogue and diplomacyHe stressed that deâescalation and constructive engagement are essential to prevent further deterioration of the situationBy tagging President Pezeshkian in his post PM Modi signalled the importance of direct communication between New Delhi and TehranThe outreach reflects Indiaâs balancing act protecting its citizens abroad safeguarding energy supplies and maintaining diplomatic channels amid heightened geopolitical volatilityThe Prime Ministerâs remarks come at a time when regional tensions have raised concerns over security trade routes and the welfare of expatriatesAlso ensuring the safe passage of tankers through the Strait of Hormuz was a key focus of a conversation between EAM Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi late on March 10 The two leaders discussed the evolving situation in West Asia with maritime movement through the Strait a key focus This was their third conversation since the outbreak of the Iran warIndia has consistently positioned itself as a voice for dialogue in West Asia calling for restraint and peaceful resolution of disputesIndia and Iran share deep cultural and economic ties with energy cooperation at the heart of the relationshipIran has long been a key supplier of crude oil to India while the Chabahar Port project offers New Delhi a strategic gateway for trade and connectivityInstability in West Asia directly affects Indiaâs energy security and its large diasporaNew Delhi has repeatedly advocated diplomacy and dialogue seeking to balance national interests with its role as a stakeholder in regional peaceIn February Iranâs Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed by Israel in a targeted strike on TehranThe assassination has fuelled mass mourning heightened regional tensions and raised fears of a wider conflict across West Asia IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/west-asia-war-pm-modi-speaks-to-iranian-prez-stresses-safety-of-indians-and-energy-transit-664986.html Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/us-gains-when-oil-prices-rise-trump-664987.html Washington March 12 US President Donald Trump said Thursday that rising oil prices benefit the United States because the country is the worldâs largest producer of crude even as tensions in the Middle East push global energy markets higher âThe United States is the largest Oil Producer in the World by far so when oil prices go up we make a lot of moneyâ Trump wrote on social mediaBut the president said his primary concern remained preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons warning that Tehranâs ambitions could threaten regional and global securityâBut of far greater interest and importance to me as President is stopping an evil Empire Iran from having Nuclear Weapons and destroying the Middle East and indeed the Worldâ Trump wrote âI wonât ever let that happen Thank you for your attention to this matterâTrumpâs remarks came as tensions in the Middle East intensified driving oil prices sharply higher and rattling global financial marketsBenchmark crude prices briefly touched 100 a barrel during trading on Thursday reflecting growing concern that disruptions in the Persian Gulf could affect global energy suppliesTraders and analysts warned that escalating conflict around the Strait of Hormuz â one of the worldâs most critical oil shipping routes â could tighten supply and fuel further price spikesFinancial markets reacted nervously to the developments US stocks fell as investors weighed the economic impact of higher energy costs and rising geopolitical risksTrump also said that the Iranian soccer team should not be coming to the US to participate in the upcoming FIFA World CupâThe Iranian National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup but I really donât believe it is appropriate that they be there for their own life and safetyâ Trump wrote âThank you for your attention to this matterâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/us-gains-when-oil-prices-rise-trump-664987.html Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/in-poll-bound-west-bengal-lpg-becoming-a-political-issue-665007.html Kolkata March 13 IANS In pollbound West Bengal the alleged supply disruption in LPG caused by the conflict in West Asia is turning into a major political issuenbspnbspWhile the ruling Trinamool Congress has accused the Centre of failing to make proper arrangements in view of the ongoing war in Iran the principal Opposition BJP has held the state government responsible for not dealing with hoarders and black marketeers who it alleges are creating an artificial shortageOther Opposition leaders are meanwhile blaming both the main political players in the state over the issueGlobally the looming threat is linked to disruptions in supply due to the conflict in West Asia which has affected fuel and gas distribution not only in India but is developing into an international concernThere is no shortage of LPG cylinders Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly Suvendu Adhikari told the media outside Kolkatas Lok Bhavan where he had gone to visit the new Governor RN Ravi to apprise him on another matterAccording to Suman Bagh a resident of Kolkata the purported crisis is a result of several factors Apart from the effects of the war there are internal issues like server failures as well We also hear that unscrupulous elements are hoarding stocks to take financial advantage of the situation Then there are scheduling problems last mile supply hiccups among other factors he statedWhile the Centre has assured that there is no real shortage of LPG and urged people not to panic a political narrative has made public anxiety remain highMeanwhile the Trinamool Congress is using the LPG issue as a major campaign pointWest Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticised the central government amid growing public anxiety over the supply of LPG cylinders ahead of the Assembly electionsShe is scheduled to lead a protest march in Kolkata on Monday March 16Incidentally the last public protests she had participated in on Kolkatas streets were against the Election Commissions SIR of the electoral rollsOn Tuesday Chief Minister Banerjee called off her indefinite sitin protest at Kolkatas Esplanade against the SIR process ending the demonstration that began on February 6Announcing the decision that evening the Chief Minister said the protest was being called off following the Supreme Courts observations which she claimed had opened the avenue for further legal recourse and justiceShe also attributed it to the request from Trinamool Congress General Secretary and her nephew Abhishek BanerjeeNow she has blamed the Centre for creating panic by announcing that LPG bookings could only be made after 21 days later extended to 25 daysThe Chief Minister held emergency meetings with gas dealers and state officials to ensure supply and prevent black marketingOn the issue that the increase in prices of LPG cylinders can be contained if the state government chooses to waive its share of tax collection she claimed that subsidies wont help if supply itself is inadequateAmid the ensuing uncertainty and chaos regional media reports are highlighting that restaurants schools serving midday meals hospital and hostel canteens are facing difficultiesHowever on busy Sudder Street a shopkeeper at one of central Kolkatas many eateries silently pointed to two unused commercial LPG cylinders and an empty one when asked about the reported fuel crisisMeanwhile after the SIR process the LPG supply issue is now both an administrative priority and a political weapon where the Trinamool is directly targeting the central government even as election dates are expected to be announced soon IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/in-poll-bound-west-bengal-lpg-becoming-a-political-issue-665007.html Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/amid-cong-tussle-in-kerala-sudhakaran-keen-to-move-from-parliament-to-assembly-665052.html Kannur March 13 Senior Congress leader and Kannur MP K Sudhakaran on Friday posted an emotional message on social media reaffirming his deep political and personal ties with Kannur in a move widely seen as a signal of his determination to contest the upcoming Assembly elections despite emerging resistance within the party In a strongly worded Facebook post Sudhakaran described Kannur as âthe blood of my heartâ and the local Congress organisation as his identityRecalling decades of violent political clashes in the district he said he had stood in the forefront protecting party workers âfrom stones knives sickles and bombs like a mother hen shielding her chicksâThe veteran leader also invoked the memories of Congress activists killed in political violence saying their faces still appeared before him when he closed his eyesThe post assumes significance as political activity intensifies ahead of the Assembly elections expected in AprilMayFor months now Sudhakaran has been publicly asserting that he intends to contest the polls from the Kannur Assembly constituency signalling a return to statelevel electoral politics after serving in ParliamentParty insiders say the MP had stepped down last year as president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee following internal turbulence and that he was informally assured by the national leadership at the time that he would be allowed to contest the Assembly electionsHowever the situation appeared to shift earlier this week when the central leadership of the Congress party indicated that sitting Members of Parliament would not be required to contest the state pollsThe remark has triggered speculation within party circles about whether Sudhakaran would be asked to remain in Parliament rather than enter the Assembly frayAgainst this backdrop Sudhakaranâs decision to return to the state on Thursday night from New Delhi even as Parliament remains in session and publishes the emotionally charged post has drawn considerable attention in political circles in KeralaIn the message the Kannur MP asserted that he had never thought about his home or family while working to protect the movement and that every Congress leader in Kannur had grown politically under his guidanceâThere is no Kannur that I do not know and no Kannur that does not know meâ he wrote vowing to stand at the forefront to defend the partyâs flag in the districtCongress sources said the leadership is yet to take a final call on candidates but Sudhakaranâs message has made it clear that he is unlikely to step back easily from the contest in his political strongholdHis Parliament colleague and party General Secretary KC Venugopal on Friday did not see anything unusual in Sudhakaranâs return and said he has a few party programmes in Kannur IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/amid-cong-tussle-in-kerala-sudhakaran-keen-to-move-from-parliament-to-assembly-665052.html Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/former-bihar-minister-nand-kishore-yadav-sworn-in-as-23rd-governor-of-nagaland-665054.html Kohima March 13 Veteran politician and former Bihar Minister Nand Kishore Yadav on Friday took oath as the 23rd Governor of Nagaland Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar administered the oath of office and secrecy to Yadav at a simple ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Kohima Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio Deputy Chief Ministers Yanthungo Patton and TR Zeliang members of the state Cabinet and top civil security and military officials were present at the ceremony which was conducted by Chief Secretary Sentiyanger ImchenThe Chief Minister congratulated Yadav on assuming charge as the Governor of NagalandPresident Droupadi Murmu on March 5 announced the appointment and transfer of Governors and Lieutenant Governors across six states and two union territoriesAs part of the reshuffle former Bihar Minister and Assembly Speaker Nand Kishore Yadav was appointed as the Governor of Nagaland Yadav succeeds Ajay Kumar Bhalla who had been holding the additional charge of Nagaland since August 25 last year while serving as the Governor of ManipurBhalla a former Union Home Secretary was given the additional responsibility by President Murmu on August 16 last year a day after the death of Nagaland Governor La Ganesan on August 15 at a hospital in Chennai at the age of 80Seventythreeyearold Yadav joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS in 1969 and later became active in the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad ABVP in 1971 He served as the president of the Bharatiya Janata Partyâs Bihar unit from 1998 to 2003 and held several important portfolios in the Bihar governmentIn February 2024 Yadav was elected as the 17th Speaker of the Bihar Legislative Assembly He is regarded as one of the senior BJP leaders in Bihar and his appointment as the Governor of Nagaland is seen as recognition of his long political career and contributions to public lifeYadav has been elected seven times as an MLA from the Patna Sahib constituency earlier known as the Patna Paschim Assembly seat representing the BJP IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/former-bihar-minister-nand-kishore-yadav-sworn-in-as-23rd-governor-of-nagaland-665054.html Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/isi-eyes-high-ranking-officials-in-planned-honeytrap-spy-network-665055.html New Delhi March 13 The ISI is engaging India in an unconventional battle whereby it is using social media to pull out sensitive information Setting up modules to honeytrap officials is not new the Indian agencies have learnt that the ISI is on overdrive mode this timePakistan has laid traps to dig out sensitive information several times However this time around the primary focus has been on procuring information about Indiaâs defence sectorAn Intelligence Bureau official said that the pattern that they have been noticing is that the ISI is not looking to trap army personnel of smaller ranks The official said that the ISI is aiming to set traps for higherranking officials since they have access to very sensitive informationRecent cases have shown that Pakistan has been trying to pull out information relating to the future defence procurements drone technology and also sensitive communications between topranking officials and defence ministry personnelAnother official said that the ISI does not want to continue running this module from Pakistan It plans to set up centres within India Moles in India have been instructed to recruit women in Delhi the Northeast and Uttar Pradesh to participate in these modulesIn addition to this the ISI wants to recruit scores of agents across the country The idea is to have agents positioned at sensitive areas with the main focus being on the defence sectors the official addedOfficials say that the plan has been in the making since 2018 Modules had been set up in Madhya Pradesh Rajasthan and Gujarat Members of these modules have been scouting for recruits for a long time However these modules had slowed down operations owing to multiple busts by the Indian agenciesWhile there was a lull for some time Indian agencies have noticed plenty of activity in recent months The agents that the ISI has been looking to recruit are being offered huge sums of money Officials say that the budgetary allotment that the ISI has made for this operation is huge This is because it wants to rope in highranking personnel so that the information that they will try and elicit will be highly classified and topnotchIndiaâs Intelligence agencies remain on very high alert and all attempts are being made to ensure that this mega plan by the ISI does not go through IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/isi-eyes-high-ranking-officials-in-planned-honeytrap-spy-network-665055.html Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-uk-fta-moving-fast-could-be-implemented-soon-piyush-goyal-665078.html New Delhi March 13 IANS Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said that the IndiaUK free trade agreement could come into force soon noting that the ratification process is moving quickly in the United KingdomnbspSpeaking at a commemorative session marking two years of the signing of the IndiaEFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement organised by ASSOCHAM via video conference in the national capital Goyal said the agreement with the UK is progressing rapidly and could become one of the fastest trade deals to be approved by the UK ParliamentHe noted that the trade agreement was signed on July 24 during the visit of Narendra Modi to the United Kingdom at Chequers and expressed optimism that it could soon enter into forcenbspThe swift progress reflects strong cooperation between the two countries and the efforts of the Indian diplomatic team in London Goyal mentionednbspDuring his address the minister also highlighted the significance of the IndiaEFTA trade pact calling it a major milestone in Indias economic engagement with EuropenbspThe agreement marked the beginning of deeper economic ties with the European region and paved the way for further trade deals Goyal mentionednbspGoyal pointed out that after concluding the EFTA agreement India went on to finalise the trade pact with the United Kingdom and later reached an agreement with the 27nation European UnionnbspHe noted that Ursula von der Leyen had described the IndiaEU agreement as the mother of all dealsThe minister also emphasised the investment commitments secured under the EFTA agreementnbspThe four EFTA countries Switzerland Norway Liechtenstein and Iceland have committed to invest 100 billion dollars in India under a legally binding provision of the agreement he statednbspThe investment commitment is expected to create around one million jobs in Indias economic ecosystem Goyal explainednbspHe said the agreement is unique because it combines a free trade agreement with a legally binding investment commitment something that has not been seen before in global trade negotiationsIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/india-uk-fta-moving-fast-could-be-implemented-soon-piyush-goyal-665078.html Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/if-nehru-were-alive-kanshi-ram-would-have-been-up-cm-rahul-gandhi-665081.html Lucknow March 13 IANS Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Friday said that if former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru were alive today Bahujan leader Kanshi Ram would have been the Chief Minister of Uttar PradeshnbspGandhi made the remarks while addressing a Samajik Parivartan Divas Social Change Day programme organised at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan here on the occasion of Kanshi Rams birth anniversarynbspDuring his address the Congress leader paid tribute to Kanshi Ram saying he dedicated his life to the fight for equality and social justice for marginalised communitiesGandhi also acknowledged that the Congress had failed to fully discharge its responsibilities in the past which forced leaders like Kanshi Ram to chart their own political pathnbspIf the Congress had functioned effectively at that time Kanshi Ram would not have needed to wage a separate struggle he said adding that Nehru would have ensured that Kanshi Ram rose to the position of Chief MinisternbspDuring the programme a proposal was also passed demanding Bharat Ratna Indias highest civilian honour for Kanshi RamnbspLaunching a sharp attack on the Centre Rahul Gandhi alleged that power and resources in the country are concentrated in a few handsHe urged people to examine the composition of the countrys bureaucracy corporate sector and top management of major companies He claimed that Dalits Other Backward Classes OBCs and Adivasis have very little representation in these sectorsnbspIn contrast if you look at the list of MGNREGA workers you will find these very communities in overwhelming numbers he saidnbspGandhi further alleged that opportunities for Dalits Adivasis and OBCs are being systematically curtailed under the present government particularly in public sector employment through recruitment and interview processesHe asserted that his Congress believes in providing equal opportunities and fair representation to all sections of societynbspGandhi said the Indian Constitution embodies an ideology shaped over thousands of years drawing from the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi Dr BR Ambedkar and Gautam BuddhanbspThe Constitution does not represent the ideology of Savarkar or Godse and those who follow that ideology do not truly respect the spirit of the Constitution he saidGandhi further claimed that Indian society has been divided into two segments a 15 per cent privileged minority and an 85 per cent majority with the benefits of resources and power largely confined to the smaller sectionnbspHe said that the Congress would continue its fight for social justice equality and greater participation of marginalised communities in governancenbspWe need to engage in politics that brings change to society Engage in such politics that enable the inclusion of Hindustans poor Dalits backward classes and tribals in the countrys power sector he told the gatheringnbspEarlier in the day Gandhi was received at the Lucknow airport by state Congress leaders and party workers before proceeding to the eventIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/if-nehru-were-alive-kanshi-ram-would-have-been-up-cm-rahul-gandhi-665081.html Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/haryana-cm-reviews-policy-to-promote-vehicle-scrapping-recycling-sector-665082.html Chandigarh March 13 IANS Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Friday chaired a meeting here to review the implementation of various incentive schemes under the Haryana Registered Vehicle Scrapping and Recycling Facility Incentive Policy of 2024 that is aimed at promoting the vehicle scrapping and recycling sectornbspnbspAt the meeting emphasis was laid on encouraging the scientific and environmentallyresponsible scrapping and recycling of old vehicles while also attracting investment and generating new employment opportunities in the statenbspProviding details during the meeting Commissioner and Secretary Industries and Commerce Amit Agrawal said registered vehicle scrapping and recycling units will be granted industry status and will be eligible for several financial incentivesnbspUnder the Capital Subsidy Scheme both new industrial units and units undertaking expansion will be provided subsidy on capital investment at prescribed rates which will help reducing the cost of establishing such industries and encourage greater investment in the statenbspIt was further informed that under the Net SGST Reimbursement Scheme eligible industrial units will receive reimbursement of a specified portion of the state GST deposited by themnbspThis will provide financial relief to industries and encourage industrial investment particularly in backward areasnbspIn addition under the Park Developers Scheme financial assistance will be provided for the development of EcoParks and Recycling Parks covering a specified share of the project cost excluding landnbspThe policy also provides for reimbursement of stamp duty on purchase or lease of land which will facilitate the development of modern infrastructure in the sectornbspAt the meeting skill development was also accorded special importance It was informed that centres of excellence will be established for skill development and financial assistance will be provided for conducting specialised training programmes in government ITIs polytechnics and other training institutionsnbspThe objective is to create a trained workforce for the vehicle scrapping and recycling sector and expand employment opportunities for the youthnbspIt was highlighted that the effective implementation of these schemes will give a significant boost to the vehicle scrapping and recycling industry in Haryana while also promoting environmental protection and increasing investment and employment opportunities in the statenbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/haryana-cm-reviews-policy-to-promote-vehicle-scrapping-recycling-sector-665082.html Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/defining-moment-in-indias-freedom-movement-vp-radhakrishnan-pm-modi-on-historic-dandi-satyagraha-664851.html New Delhi March 12 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi and all the brave freedom fighters who took part in the historic march Dandi Satyagraha PM Modi took to social media X and said The Dandi March began on this day in 1930 We respectfully remember all the great personalities involvedVice President CP Radhalkrishnan also took to social media X and said The historic Dandi Satyagraha launched on this day in 1930 under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhiji marked a defining moment in Indiaâs freedom movement inspiring a nationwide spirit of selfreliance through the ideals of Satya and Ahimsa I pay homage to Bapu and all the brave freedom fighters who took part in this historic march As we build an Atmanirbhar Bharat and strive towards the vision of Viksit Bharat the spirit of selfreliance it inspired continues to guide our nationâs journeyThe Salt March also known as the Salt Satyagraha Dandi March and the Dandi Satyagraha was an act of nonviolent civil disobedience in colonial India led by Mahatma GandhiOn March 12 1930 Mahatma Gandhi embarked on a historic Salt March from Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarats Ahmedabad to the village of Dandi in the states coastal area to protest against the steep tax the British levied on salt The significant march came to be known as the Dandi March or Salt March also referred to as the Dandi Satyagraha It was a 24day march nonviolent in nature which is historically significant as it led to the mass Civil Disobedience MovementDuring that time the British had prohibited Indians from collecting or selling salt Indians were also forced to buy the staple diet ingredient from the British who not only exercised monopoly over its manufacture and sale but also levied a heavy salt tax The Salt March was the collective beginning of a mass resistance movement against British tyrannyUpon reaching the seashore in Dandi Mahatma Gandhi broke the law by producing illegal salt This later turned into a mass civil disobedience movement throughout India as millions broke salt laws by either making salt or buying illegal saltThe Salt March began with around 80 people but as more joined for the 390 kmlong journey it grew into a strong force of over 50000The march got national and international recognition and shook Britishers with its nonviolent nature It got massive press coverage and drew the worlds attention towards the Indian Independence Movement IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/defining-moment-in-indias-freedom-movement-vp-radhakrishnan-pm-modi-on-historic-dandi-satyagraha-664851.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-deletes-lpg-shortage-post-using-photo-from-2011-after-criticism-664877.html New Delhi March 12 Amid the ongoing controversy over LPG shortages and rising fuel prices the Congress party sparked debate on social media after sharing a post on platform X that criticised the government However the party later deleted the post following widespread criticism for using an old photo The post featured an image carrying the slogan âModi Hai To Mumkin Haiâ with a caption below that read âModi ki line lagao yojanaâ suggesting people were being forced to stand in long queues for LPG cylinders Soon after it was posted several users pointed out that the photograph used in the post was reportedly from 2011 leading to criticism of the Congress for sharing an outdated image to highlight the current issueFollowing the backlash the party quietly removed the post from its social media accountMeanwhile protests against the recent hike in LPG prices have continued in several parts of the country In Karnatakaâs Mandya district members of the District Congress Committee along with its womenâs wing staged a protest against the Union government condemning the increase in domestic and commercial LPG cylinder pricesOn March 7 oil marketing companies raised the price of a 142kg domestic LPG cylinder by Rs 60 while the price of a 19kg commercial cylinder was increased by Rs 11450 to Rs 115 The hike has largely been attributed to rising global energy costs amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West AsiaThe Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee MPCC has also announced a statewide protest across all districts on Thursday demanding that the Centre immediately roll back the recent LPG price hike The party accused the government of failing to adequately plan fuel and gas supplies at a time when global markets are facing uncertainty due to the West Asia crisisEven as protests continue the Congress is also preparing for internal organisational activities The party is set to hold a twoday residential training workshop in Trimbakeshwar starting Thursday for candidates from the North Maharashtra division who recently contested local body electionsMeanwhile government officials have cautioned against panic buying and hoarding of LPG cylinders Authorities said that misinformation circulating on social media has led to unnecessary panic bookingsOfficials urged citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified claims regarding LPG shortagesAt a joint briefing by the Ministry of Shipping Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Petroleum officials said Indiaâs domestic LPG production has been increased by nearly 25 per cent following government directives aimed at boosting outputSujata Sharma speaking during the briefing said that additional LPG cargo shipments are currently on their way to India and are expected to arrive within the next one or two daysShe also noted that India imports nearly 60 per cent of its LPG requirements with about 90 per cent of these imports passing through the Strait of HormuzâCurrently LPG is being directed primarily towards the domestic sector For nondomestic LPG priority is being given to essential services such as hospitals and educational institutionsâ Sharma saidShe added that a committee is working with state authorities and industry representatives to ensure that the available LPG supply is distributed in a fair and transparent manner across the country IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-deletes-lpg-shortage-post-using-photo-from-2011-after-criticism-664877.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/centre-takes-attack-on-farooq-abdullah-seriously-nadda-in-rs-blasts-cong-for-playing-politics-664891.html New Delhi March 12 Union Minister JP Nadda on Thursday said the government would take every necessary step to ensure the security of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah Responding to concerns raised in the Rajya Sabha by Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge regarding the recent attack on the senior leader Nadda described the incident as extremely serious and said the Centre was treating the matter with utmost concernKharge said Today you must have read that in Jammu and Kashmir an attack was carried out on Farooq Abdullah and his security is under threat Why has such an atmosphere developed there today His security is at risk because Jammu and Kashmir earlier had statehood and the local security and police arrangements were in placeCiting the revocation of statehood to JampK Kharge raised concerns about the inadequate security in Jammu and Kashmir while members of the ruling party protested loudlyDoes the government want to kill Farooq Abdullah the Congress chief askedResponding to this Nadda said âThe incident that took place last night involving a murderous attack on senior Jammu and Kashmir leader Farooq Abdullah who has served as Chief Minister several times is a matter of great concern and very serious The Government of India is taking this matter very seriouslyâ he saidNadda informed the House that authorities have initiated a detailed probe into the incident and that all aspects related to the attack would be thoroughly examinedHe said a comprehensive investigation would be carried out and every possible angle connected to the incident would be scrutinised carefullyâThe authorities are actively looking into the matter and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the investigationâ he saidAt the same time the Union Minister urged the Congress party not to politicise the issue and bashed remarks that linked the incident to the restoration of statehood in Jammu and KashmirHe said making allegations against the government and suggesting that the attack was linked to the delay in restoring statehood was not appropriateâStating that this happened because statehood was not restored and making serious allegations against the government even suggesting that there was an intention to take his life is condemnableâ Nadda saidThe minister also criticised the Congress party by referring to the death of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad MookerjeeâThe Congress party are not able to answer on the death of Dr Shyama Prasad Mookherjeeâ he addedThe remarks came a day after an attempt was made to attack National Conference president Farooq Abdullah during a private event on Wednesday evening Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary was also present at the programme when the incident occurredAccording to officials the firing incident took place when Farooq Abdullah and other leaders were leaving the venue after attending the function It was not immediately clear whether the suspected attack was specifically aimed at the VVIPs present at the eventThe accused has been identified as Kamal Singh Jamwal He was quickly overpowered by security personnel stationed at the venue and was taken into custody soon after the incidentSenior police officials reached the spot shortly after the firing incident and an investigation has been launched to determine how the suspect managed to get close to the venue and what the motive behind the act may have been IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/centre-takes-attack-on-farooq-abdullah-seriously-nadda-in-rs-blasts-cong-for-playing-politics-664891.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ysr-congress-stands-for-value-based-politics-says-jagan-on-partys-formation-day-664893.html Amaravati March 12 YSR Congress Party always stands for values and credibility party president and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy said on Thursday Addressing a gathering at the partys formation day celebrations at YSRCPâs central office Reddy said the party was born to keep its promise 15 years ago on this dayHe stated that the party began with a single person and has now swelled and gained an identity of its own nationwideBraving the conspiracies and deceptive politics of the Congress party which was in power in the state and Centre and its collusion with the Telugu Desam Party TDP the YSRCO was formed on March 12 2011 and has stood on its own fighting every battle on its own he saidThe birth of the party has not only brought resolve to our family but has also given a new direction and brought in a new wave in the state polity as it stood for valuebased politics he saidâYSRCP does not belong to Jagan but it belongs to crores of cadres and sympathisers all overâ he said and thanked the people for extending their support throughoutHe claimed that the party is being run in a manner and measure which makes the cadres feel proud and the belief in God and people has taken it this far and will continue so he saidEarlier he unfurled the party flag amidst cheers from party workers and leadersMLCs Lella Appi Reddy and Varudu Kalyani were among those who attended the functionMeanwhile Jagan Mohan Reddy wished YSRCP workers and supporters on the partys 16th formation day He said in a post on X that YSRCP was formed to fulfil the aspirations of his father YS Rajasekhara Reddy YSRHe stated that people alone are his courage and strength He said they stood firm without retreating in tougher times Our partyâs journey is not merely a political voyage Itâs an enduring testament to the struggles trust and sacrifices of lakhs of dedicated workers united by a single goalâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ysr-congress-stands-for-value-based-politics-says-jagan-on-partys-formation-day-664893.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ls-speaker-birla-breaks-silence-after-no-confidence-motion-rejected-emphasises-rules-of-house-664899.html New Delhi March 12 IANS Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday spoke for the first time in the House after the noconfidence motion against him was rejected expressing gratitude to members of the House for participating in the debate and sharing their views He emphasised that the functioning of Parliament is guided strictly by established rules and proceduresnbspnbspAddressing the Lok Sabha Om Birla said the discussion on the motion continued for more than 12 hours and provided an opportunity for members to express their concerns and opinionsThere was a discussion for more than 12 hours on the motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker The purpose of the debate was to understand the concerns and viewpoints of every member of the House Birla saidHe highlighted that the Lok Sabha represents the democratic will of the people of IndiaThis House reflects the sovereign will of Indias 140 crore citizens All the members present here have been elected with the mandate of lakhs of people and have come here with the responsibility of fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the citizens he saidnbspBirla stated that during his tenure he had consistently tried to ensure that all members get an opportunity to speak and present their viewsI have always tried to ensure that every member gets a chance to express their views in the House I have also encouraged those members who hesitate to speak to come forward and present their thoughts In my two terms as Speaker I have repeatedly requested members who were reluctant to participate in debates to speak in the House as this strengthens the foundations of democracy he saidnbspHe added that the Lok Sabha strives to act as the voice of the last citizen of the country and that he had continuously worked towards maintaining this spiritReferring to constitutional provisions Birla noted that the office of the Speaker is established under Article 93 of the ConstitutionnbspArticle 93 of the Constitution provides for the office of the Speaker and I have been elected to this position twice I have always tried to conduct the proceedings of the House with transparency discipline balance and adherence to rules I have fulfilled my responsibility of maintaining orderly and peaceful proceedings he saidBirla also mentioned that members of the Opposition had submitted a notice of noconfidence against him on February 10 2026 Following the submission of the motion he said he kept himself away from the proceedings for a few days to allow discussions to take place impartiallyIn the last two days members of the House expressed different views and opinions on the issue I listened carefully to every member he saidHe thanked all members who participated in the debate regardless of whether they supported or opposed himnbspI express my gratitude to everyone who spoke during the discussion those who supported me and those who spoke against me In a democracy every viewpoint has importance The post of Speaker does not belong to any individual it represents the collective will of the House and the dignity of this great institution he saidBirla also addressed allegations raised by some members that Opposition MPs were not being allowed to speakI want to clarify that every member of this House has the opportunity to speak but it must be done according to the rules Some members believe that the Leader of the Opposition is above the House and can speak on any matter at any time but no such privilege exists he saidHe stressed that the House must function according to established parliamentary proceduresThese rules have not been created by the ruling party or the Opposition They are part of our parliamentary heritage he saidBirla further stated that under constitutional provisions members must give notice and seek the Speakers approval before raising certain issues in the HouseAccording to Article 372 members must give notice and obtain prior approval from the Speaker before presenting certain matters he said reiterating his commitment to maintaining transparency and discipline in the functioning of the Lok Sabha IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ls-speaker-birla-breaks-silence-after-no-confidence-motion-rejected-emphasises-rules-of-house-664899.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/gas-supply-disruption-fuel-crisis-to-be-discussed-in-cabinet-meeting-ktaka-dy-cm-664900.html Bengaluru March 11 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President DK Shivakumar on Thursday said that the issue of disruptions in the supply of gas and petroleum products will be discussed in detail in the state Cabinet meeting scheduled to be held on Thursday evening at the Vidhana Soudha He made the statement while speaking to the media in BengaluruDy CM Shivakumar said âThe hike in the prices of cooking gas is a different matter But gas itself is not available to the public The respective MPs from Karnataka are not speaking about this issue Either they should ensure the availability of gas or suggest alternative measuresââAt least they should inform our farmers to make alternative arrangements and permit the use of traditional firewood in homes in villages They had earlier announced that kitchens should be firewoodfree but that rule will have to be relaxedâ he saidHe further said that there could be shortages of gas and that petrol and diesel prices may increase âPeople are already struggling and the state government cannot do anything in this regard At this hour of crisis the Centre is not talking about Indiaâs foreign policyâ Shivakumar notedâThe MPs are issuing statements on different matters Let them raise this crisis in Parliament and do justice to the state We condemn the stand of the Central government First and foremost people should be able to lead their lives peacefully without disruptionsâ he saidâWe do not know what situation awaits us Already autos running on gas have stopped operating Hence this is a serious issue and we will discuss it in detail in todayâs Cabinet meetingâ Shivakumar addedResponding to the issue of a shortage of LPG cylinders due to the conflict involving Israel the US and Iran BJP state President and MLA BY Vijayendra on Wednesday said the Central government is taking the necessary steps to ensure the supply of LPG cylinders and that the disruption has occurred due to the sudden outbreak of warSpeaking to reporters near the Vidhana Soudha here Vijayendra said The Central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking the necessary measures to ensure the supply of cooking gas cylinders Due to the sudden war there has been disruption in supply Despite knowing this Congress leaders are staging protests on the streets against the Central government IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/gas-supply-disruption-fuel-crisis-to-be-discussed-in-cabinet-meeting-ktaka-dy-cm-664900.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/no-crisis-on-oil-front-as-india-has-ample-reserves-diversified-imports-govt-664901.html New Delhi March 12 IANS Indias strategic oil reserves and diversification of energy imports across 40 supplier countries have transformed its capacity to absorb global energy shocks and this resilience has ensured that there is no energy crisis due to the disruption caused by the Iran war as the government is tackling the situation with supplyside management a senior official said on ThursdaynbspThe country has robust macroeconomic fundamentals with ample forex reserves to cover 1112 months of imports These are also enough to cover the countrys oil import bills for 5 years The strategic stocks of crude and petroleum products are sufficient to cover more than 70 days of market demand while imports have been diversified to reduce the countrys dependence on the Middle East the official pointed outIndias 74day reserve buffer diversified sourcing across 40 countries and proactive regulatory response place it significantly ahead of regional peers in managing the 2026 energy shocknbspThe governments multialignment doctrine to tackle the situation reflects pragmatic economic diplomacy buying Russian crude invoking the Essential Commodities Act and diversifying supply without compromising sovereignty the official saidnbspThe crisis also weighs more on growth than inflation preserving policy flexibility for the government and the Reserve Bank of India RBI to maintain macroeconomic stabilityIndias Inflation rate of around 275 per cent is among the lowest in major economies Cushioned by Russian crude imports fuel tax flexibility and regulated LPG pricing the prices of petroleum products for consumers have been kept well under controlIn the case of Japan for instance the inflation rate is 5 per cent and the fareastern country is dependent to the extent of 75 to 90 per cent on crude exported through the Straits of Hormuz India on the other hand has diversified its energy imports to other countries to drastically reduce its dependence on supplies coming through the Straits of Hormuz which were initially at around 50 per cent and were later reduced to 20 per centIndia continues buying discounted Russian crude which constitutes roughly onethird of all imports despite Western pressure Other countries from which oil is being imported include Iraq Saudi Arabia the UAE and the US reflecting diversification not political alignment the official saidWhile India has an over twomonth reserve buffer neighbouring countries such as Pakistan Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have a cushion of only 30 days or less Consequently Pakistan has seen an increase in petrol and diesel prices by a massive Rs 55 per litre while Sri Lanka has also raised fuel prices amid panic buying and Bangladesh has been forced to introduce energy rationing IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/no-crisis-on-oil-front-as-india-has-ample-reserves-diversified-imports-govt-664901.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/21-abducted-naga-civilians-freed-in-manipurs-ukhrul-after-negotiations--664903.html Imphal March 12 All 21 Naga community civilians who were detained by villagers and armed men of the Kuki community in Manipurs Ukhrul district were released on Thursday after hectic negotiations officials said A police official in Imphal said the civilians belonging to the Tangkhul Naga community were detained by Kuki villagers and armed men at Shangkai on Wednesday afternoon when they were travelling in three vehicles along the UkhrulImphal route The official said that after intense talks and negotiations between state government officials and leaders of Civil Society Organisations CSOs of both the Naga and KukiZo communities the hostages were released in the early hours of Thursday After their release the civilians were taken to Litan police station and later reunited with their respective families Tension remained high on Wednesday in the Tangkhul Nagamajority Ukhrul district mainly in areas bordering the Kukimajority Kangpokpi district with security forces conducting search and area domination operations to prevent any untoward incident Earlier the Tangkhul Naga Long Working Committee the apex body of the Tangkhul Nagas in Manipur had issued a twohour ultimatum demanding the safe release of more than 20 Naga civilians detained at Shangkai village a Kukiinhabited village in Ukhrul district Tangkhul is the largest Naga tribe in Manipur and is mainly found across five to six districts of the state Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh expressed profound concern over the distressing situation along the UkhrulImphal road where innocent civilians had reportedly been held captive in the area under Litan Police Station A statement issued by the Chief Ministerâs Office CMO said the Chief Minister appealed to those responsible to uphold the highest traditions of humanity and ensure the safe and unconditional release of all civilians at the earliest He assured the families of the victims and the public that the government was treating the matter seriously and would take all necessary steps to bring the culprits involved in such a cowardly act to justice CM Singh reiterated that the government was committed to ensuring the safety of every citizen of Manipur The Chief Minister directed senior police and administrative officials to coordinate immediate efforts to closely monitor the situation and secure the release of all civilians He also appealed to all Civil Society Organisations CSOs and stakeholders to help calm the situation The Chief Minister warned that stringent action would be taken against those responsible for any unlawful act and urged all to shun violence A huge contingent of security forces led by senior police officials rushed to the area and launched a combing operation to rescue the captives and apprehend the suspected kidnappers The Shangkai Village Authority also appealed to the government and concerned authorities to urgently intervene to ensure the safety and release of its villagers currently detained and to locate the missing individuals at the earliest The village authority further urged the authorities to take immediate steps to prevent further escalation and restore peace and security in the area In February ethnic clashes over territorial disputes erupted between members of the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities at Litan Sareikhong resulting in the torching of more than 30 houses belonging to both communities IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/21-abducted-naga-civilians-freed-in-manipurs-ukhrul-after-negotiations--664903.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajendra-vishwanath-arlekar-sworn-in-as-acting-governor-of-tamil-nadu-664907.html Chennai March 12 Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar was sworn in as the Acting Governor of Tamil Nadu at a ceremony held at the historic Peopleâs Palace in Guindy on Thursday The oath of office was administered by Chief Justice of the Madras High Court Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari in the presence of several senior political leaders and officialsThe development follows a recent reshuffle in gubernatorial positions by the Union government After the resignation of CV Ananda Bose as Governor of West Bengal President Droupadi Murmu reassigned Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi to take charge of the eastern state In view of this transition Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been given the additional responsibility of serving as the Acting Governor of Tamil Nadu until further arrangements are madeArlekar arrived in Chennai late on Wednesday night ahead of the swearingin ceremony The event at the Raj Bhavan complex drew the presence of top functionaries from the Tamil Nadu government as well as leaders from across the political spectrumChief Minister MK Stalin attended the ceremony along with Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly Speaker M Appavu Several members of the state cabinet were also present including Ministers KN Nehru MR K Panneerselvam EV Velu Raghupathi M Subramanian and Sekar BabuTamil Nadu BJP President Nainar Nagendran was among the political leaders who participated in the eventFormer Telangana Governor and former Tamil Nadu BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan was also present at the ceremonySenior bureaucrats including the state Chief Secretary and top police officials attended the oathtaking eventThe ceremony marked a significant administrative transition for the state coming amid changes in Governors in several states Earlier in the day RN Ravi took the oath as the Governor of West Bengal formally assuming charge of the officeWith Arlekar now handling the additional responsibility as Acting Governor of Tamil Nadu the state administration is expected to continue functioning under the interim gubernatorial arrangement until the Centre makes a permanent appointment IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajendra-vishwanath-arlekar-sworn-in-as-acting-governor-of-tamil-nadu-664907.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-bjp-says-lpg-price-rise-minor-compares-with-upa-era-fuel-costs-664909.html Bengaluru March 12 Karnataka BJP State President BY Vijayendra on Thursday criticised leaders of the Congress for protesting against the recent increase in LPG and petrol prices claiming that the situation was not comparable to the period when the party was in power at the Centre In a statement Vijayendra said Congress leaders were âcrying hoarseâ over what he described as a marginal increase in LPG prices and claimed that prices were significantly higher during the tenure of the United Progressive Alliance UPA governmentReferring to former Prime Minister late Manmohan Singh he said that during the UPA era the leadership had often justified economic decisions by stating that âmoney does not grow on treesâ Vijayendra argued that LPG prices during that period were higher despite relatively stable global conditions and the absence of major conflicts in oilproducing regionsHe contrasted that period with the current global situation noting that several parts of the Middle East remain volatile and that global energy supply chains are facing disruptionsDespite these challenges Vijayendra said the country is currently being led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi whom he described as an astute leader He credited Narendra Modi and his Cabinet colleagues with ensuring access to oil and natural gas supplies through diplomatic efforts and decisive leadershipHe also criticised the economic management of the previous government claiming that the period was marked by multiple scams and that India had been grouped among the âFragile Fiveâ economies during those yearsKarnataka Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President DK Shivakumar on Thursday said that the issue of disruptions in the supply of gas and petroleum products will be discussed in detail at the state Cabinet meeting scheduled to be held on Thursday evening at the Vidhana SoudhaA heated debate erupted in the Karnataka Assembly on Wednesday over the shortage of commercial LPG cylinders with the ruling Congress and the Opposition BJP trading sharp accusations while the government appealed to the public to limit LPG consumption during the ongoing global crisisFood and Civil Supplies Minister KH Muniyappa said the state government had already held discussions with oil companies and assured that domestic consumers would receive at least one LPG cylinder for use over 25 days I have worked as a Union Minister The domestic supply wont be affected he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ktaka-bjp-says-lpg-price-rise-minor-compares-with-upa-era-fuel-costs-664909.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/energy-security-compromised-due-to-flawed-foreign-policy-govt-must-prepare-rahul-gandhi-664913.html New Delhi March 12 IANS Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday expressed concern over Indias energy security warning that the country could face serious challenges in the near future if adequate preparations are not made He said flawed foreign policy decisions had contributed to the current situation and urged the government to act promptly to safeguard peoples interestsSpeaking to reporters outside Parliament Gandhi said he had sought permission to raise the issue of the gas and LPG situation in the House but was not allowed to speakNormally there is a procedure that you can ask to talk I had asked to be allowed to make a statement regarding the gas and LPG situation This is the start I wanted to speak about it but a new procedure seems to have started first the minister will decide then I will speak and after that the minister will respond Gandhi saidHighlighting concerns over rising uncertainty in the energy sector he warned that fuel supplies could become a major issueBasically the main thing is that the gas is going to be a problem The petrol is going to be a problem All fuel will be gonna be a problem Because essentially our energy security has been compromised Flawed foreign policy has created this problem Now it doesnt matter we have to prepare for it The government and PM Modi should start preparation if not then it will impact the crores of people he saidnbspGandhi also suggested that the issue was larger than the question of whether specific countries allow or restrict fuel suppliesThis war is fundamentally about the current world order he saidHe further stated that global geopolitical changes were creating uncertainty which could affect energy supply chainsnbspIt is a much bigger issue whether Iran will allow fuel or not We are going into an unstable time When you go into unstable time You have to change the mindset What I am suggesting to the government is that they think about what the possibilities are there and ensure that our people dont suffer Gandhi saidThe Congress leader also clarified that his remarks were not intended as political criticism but as a warning about emerging challengesI am not making any political statement I can see a big problem coming If it can be resolved at the level of Iran then also this problem will not be solved because the world is changing and the structure is changing So we have to change the mindset But if we do not change the mindset if we will not work with clarity if we dont make India the centre then it will be a problem he addedMeanwhile protests against the recent hike in LPG prices have continued in several parts of the country In Karnatakas Mandya district members of the District Congress Committee along with its womens wing staged a protest against the Union government condemning the increase in domestic and commercial LPG cylinder pricesOn March 7 oil marketing companies raised the price of a 142kg domestic LPG cylinder by Rs 60 while the price of a 19kg commercial cylinder was increased by Rs 11450 to Rs 115 The hike has largely been attributed to rising global energy costs amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West AsiaThe Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee MPCC has also announced a statewide protest across all districts on Thursday demanding that the Centre immediately roll back the recent LPG price hike The party accused the government of failing to adequately plan fuel and gas supplies at a time when global markets are facing uncertainty due to the West Asia crisisMeanwhile government officials have cautioned against panic buying and hoarding of LPG cylinders Authorities said that misinformation circulating on social media has led to unnecessary panic bookingsOfficials urged citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified claims regarding LPG shortagesIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/energy-security-compromised-due-to-flawed-foreign-policy-govt-must-prepare-rahul-gandhi-664913.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-declines-petition-seeking-return-of-subhas-chandra-boses-ashes-from-japan-664917.html New Delhi March 12 IANS The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain a writ petition seeking directions to bring back the mortal remains of freedom fighter Subhas Chandra Bose from Japan to IndianbspnbspAfter a bench headed by Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant expressed disinclination to entertain the plea senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appearing for Ashish Ray the grandnephew of Netaji sought permission to withdraw the petitionSinghvi said that Netajis daughter would file a fresh plea before the apex courtThe bench also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi then dismissed the matter as withdrawnAt the outset the CJIled Bench noted that similar petitions had earlier been filed before the top court and had been dismissed How many times will this issue come to the Court it remarked recalling that a similar matter had been dismissed as recently as 2024During the hearing Singhvi submitted that Netaji had only one legal heir his daughter Anita Bose Pfaff and informed the apex court that she supported the pleaHowever the bench observed that the heir herself was not the petitioner and should approach the Supreme Court directly if she wished to pursue the matterBut the heir is not the petitioner The heir must come before us She cannot fight behind the curtains it remarked adding that the top court respected the sentiments of the family but legal action must be initiated by the heir concernedDuring the hearing the apex court also commented on the timing and nature of such petitionsThe CJI Surya Kantled Bench observed that Netaji was one of the greatest national heroes of the country and it bowed before his memory but added that the apex court was aware of the reasons and timing behind such pleasThe petition had alleged that the Union government had failed to bring back Netajis mortal remains preserved at the Renkoji Temple in Tokyo where ashes believed to be those of Bose have been kept for decades It sought directions for the remains to be brought to India so that his daughter could perform his last rites in the country IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/sc-declines-petition-seeking-return-of-subhas-chandra-boses-ashes-from-japan-664917.html Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/eam-jaishankar-speaks-to-iranian-counterpart-amid-escalating-west-asia-conflict-664735.html New Delhi March 10 External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar engaged in a detailed telephone conversation this evening with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi focusing on the latest developments in the ongoing conflict in West Asia In a post on X Jaishankar stated A detailed conversation this evening with Foreign Minister araghchi of Iran on the latest developments regarding the ongoing conflict We agreed to remain in touchThe call which took place on Tuesday indicates Indias proactive diplomatic outreach as tensions in the region West Asia remain high This marks one of the recent highlevel interactions between the two ministers following earlier telecons amid the escalating crisis involving Iran the United States and IsraelThe ongoing conflict refers to the intensified hostilities in West Asia including reported military actions such as US strikes on Iranian assets and broader regional confrontations that have raised concerns over stability energy supplies and the safety of civilians and expatriatesIndia has consistently advocated for deescalation restraint dialogue and diplomacy as the path forward while prioritising the protection of Indian nationals in the region and ensuring uninterrupted energy availabilityJaishankars post highlights the mutual agreement to maintain close communication reflecting the importance both sides attach to bilateral ties despite the volatile situationIndia and Iran share longstanding historical and strategic relations including cooperation in trade energy and connectivity projects like the Chabahar PortThe conversation comes against the backdrop of Indias balanced approach expressing deep concern over recent developments condoling losses where appropriate and pushing for diplomatic solutions to prevent a wider regional warEarlier interactions including calls in February and early March had seen Jaishankar convey Indias worries about the evolving situation and emphasise civilian safety No further specifics on the discussion were disclosed in the public statement but the emphasis on staying in touch signals continued engagement at the foreign minister level amid efforts to monitor the crisis closely and safeguard Indias interestsThis diplomatic exchange reaffirms New Delhis role as a responsible stakeholder advocating peace in one of the worlds most sensitive geopolitical hotspots IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/eam-jaishankar-speaks-to-iranian-counterpart-amid-escalating-west-asia-conflict-664735.html Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/taranjit-singh-sandhu-to-take-oath-as-delhis-23rd-lieutenant-governor-today-664741.html New Delhi March 11 Newly appointed Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Taranjit Singh Sandhu will take the oath of office and secrecy on Wednesday The swearingin ceremony is scheduled to be held at 130 pm at Lok Niwas where the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court will administer the oath formally appointing him as the 23rd Lieutenant Governor of the national capital Outgoing Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena has been appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh and is set to assume charge on FridayTaranjit Singh Sandhu is a former Indian diplomat who served as Indias Ambassador to the US from February 2020 to January 31 2024Sandhu who joined the Indian Foreign Service IFS in 1988 is credited with playing a key role in opening the Indian Embassy in UkraineHe served as the head of the political and administration wing at the Indian Embassy in UkraineFrom serving as First Secretary at the Indian Embassy in Washington to Consul General of India in Frankfurt and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Washington DC Sandhu held several key diplomatic assignments during his career spanning more than threeandahalf decadesAfter retiring from the IFS Sandhu joined the Bharatiya Janata Party months before the 2024 Lok Sabha electionsThe BJP fielded Sandhu as its Lok Sabha candidate from Amritsar against Congress leader Gurjit Singh AujlaTaranjit Singh Sandhu graduated with a Bachelor of Arts BA from St Stephens College at Delhi and later completed his Master of Arts MA from Jawaharlal Nehru University JNU New DelhiDelhis current LG Vinai Kumar Saxena has been appointed as Ladakhs LG in place of Kavinder Gupta who has been named Himachal Pradesh GovernorThe above appointments will take effect from the dates they will assume charge of their respective offices the statement from Rashtrapati Bhavan said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/taranjit-singh-sandhu-to-take-oath-as-delhis-23rd-lieutenant-governor-today-664741.html Wed, 11 Mar 2026 08:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-govt-to-boycott-highway-inauguration-event-over-invite-row-664770.html Kochi March 11 The Kerala government is set to boycott Wednesdayâs National Highway inauguration programme to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ernakulam This appears to be a fallout over the exclusion of State Public Works Minister PA Mohammed Riyas from the eventApart from being the Public Works Minister Riyas is also the soninlaw of Chief Minister Pinarayi VijayanChief Minister Vijayan and ministers MB Rajesh and K Krishnankutty have decided not to attend the functionMinister Rajesh said the invitation for the programme reached them only on Tuesday and that he already had engagements in his constituencyKrishnankutty also cited inconvenience in attending the eventThe development comes amid a political row after Riyas was reportedly not invited to the ceremonyThe State governmentâs decision to stay away is widely seen as a protest against his exclusion from the programmeThe event is part of a larger function where the Prime Minister is scheduled to inaugurate development projects worth Rs 10800 crore in KeralaAlthough Chief Minister Vijayanâs name reportedly appeared in the programme notice he has chosen not to participateAmong those included in the function are Rajeev Chandrasekhar BJPâs Kerala unit president and Union Minister George KurianThe key projects being inaugurated include the six lane ThalappadyâChengala stretch of National Highway 66 and the VengalamâRamanattukara six lane section of the Kozhikode bypassBoth are part of the ongoing expansion of National Highway 66 through KeralaReacting to the controversy Riyas said he had not received any communication inviting him to the programme and termed the situation ânot befitting a democracyâHe pointed out that the State government had played a major role in the project including funding land acquisitionRiyas also said he understood that Union Minister Nitin Gadkari who heads the road transport ministry would not be attending the eventHe criticised what he described as a âhastily arranged inaugurationâ and argued that without the support of the LDF government the project itself might have stalledThe CPIM has indicated it will raise the issue politically accusing the BJP of attempting to take sole credit for a project implemented with the State governmentâs participationThe party also alleged that a development programme had been turned into a political eventState BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar reacting to the boycott said the State government is headed by the Chief Minister and there is no rule that the CMâs soninlaw should also be includedThere is a protocol and I donât know of any rule that the CMâs family must also be invited CM is aware as the invite came to him a week back and only now this issue has surfaced He could have pointed it out when he got the invite he saidChandrasekhar said that the PMs programmes were announced in advance a week back and the CM was invited and he could have informed then but kept quiet and this became an issue on Wednesday It has been raked up with Assembly polls round the corner IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-govt-to-boycott-highway-inauguration-event-over-invite-row-664770.html Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/shiv-pratap-shukla-sworn-in-as-new-governor-of-telangana-664783.html Hyderabad March 11 Shiv Pratap Shukla took oath as Governor of Telangana on Wednesday Chief Justice of Telangana High Court Justice Aparesh Kumar administered oath of office to Shukla at a ceremony held at Raj BhavanShukla took the oath in Telugu much to the surprise of all those presentChief Minister A Revanth Reddy Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka state ministers Assembly Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar Legislative Council Chairman Gutha Sukhender Reddy attended the ceremonyFormer Himachal Pradesh Governor Bandaru Dattatreya state Congress chief Mahesh Kumar Goud state BJP president Ramchander Rao Chief Secretary K Ramakrishna Rao DGP B Shivadhar Reddy and other top officials were also presentWith the Assembly Budget session scheduled to begin on March 16 the new Governor will address a joint sitting of both Houses on the same dayShukla arrived in Hyderabad on Tuesday Chief Minister Revanth Reddy had received him at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport RGIAPresident Droupadi Murmu last week appointed Shukla as the Governor of Telangana Shukla who is currently serving as Governor of Himachal Pradesh will succeed Jishnu Dev Varma who has been appointed as the Governor of Maharashtra Varma had assumed charge as the Governor of Telangana on July 31 2024 Shukla is the fourth Governor of Telangana which was carved out as a separate state in 2014He was sworn in as the Governor of Himachal Pradesh on February 18 2023 Born April 1 1952 in Rudrapur village of Gorakhpur district in Uttar Pradesh was associated with Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad ABVP in his student days He joined the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP in 1983 He was elected from Gorakhpur Nagar Assembly constituency for the first time in 1989 He was reelected in the year 1991 and took the charge of Minister of State independent charge of Basic Education Adult Education and Language Department in the government of Kalyan Singh the Chief Minister of the first BJP government of Uttar Pradesh He also took over the responsibility of the Horticulture Department Sports Youth Welfare and Food Processing DepartmentAfter being elected to assembly for the fourth time in 1996 he discharged his duties as Cabinet Minister of Prison Law and Justice and Rural Development Department in the governments of Kalyan Singh Ram Prakash Gupta and Rajnath Singh In 2016 he was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha from Uttar Pradesh and in 2017 took over the responsibility of the Minister of State for Finance in the Modi government at the Centre He served as a Rajya Sabha member till July 4 2022 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/shiv-pratap-shukla-sworn-in-as-new-governor-of-telangana-664783.html Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ravi-shankar-prasad-slams-oppn-in-ls-for-questioning-chairs-power-calls-out-lop-gandhis-conduct-664792.html New Delhi March 11 IANS BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad on Wednesday criticised the Opposition during the debate on the noconfidence resolution against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla cautioning that such a parliamentary instrument should not be misused for political or personal motivesnbspParticipating in the discussion in the Lok Sabha Prasad said that the mechanism of moving a motion against the Speaker should not be turned into a tool to settle political scores or to satisfy the ego of some leader of some groupLet the instrument of opposition against the Speaker not be weaponised to satisfy the ego of some leader of some group That is very important he said while addressing the HouseThe senior BJP leader also took a swipe at Leader of Opposition LoP Rahul Gandhi raising questions about his conduct both inside Parliament and during his visits abroad Referring to Congress leader KC Venugopal Prasad remarked that the LoP needed guidance on parliamentary conductVenugopal ji should teach something to Rahul Gandhi about the conduct of the LoP he saidHe slammed the LoP for reading out the excerpts from an unpublished memoir of a former Army Chief The Opposition however started sloganeering over Prasads remarksReflecting on the history of Parliament Prasad said the institution had faced many turbulent moments but had consistently managed to uphold its dignity and rise above the crisesThis Parliament has seen several ups and downs however every time the institution touched new heights he saidHe cited past controversies to underline his point recalling incidents when Members of Parliament had been expelled for misconductYesterday they all discussed that 11 MPs were expelled from the House because they took money to ask questions and black chilli was also tossed around in the House However the Parliament always restored its dignity Prasad saidPrasad also referred to what he described as the painful time during the Emergency accusing the Congress of undermining democratic institutions at that timeAll the Opposition members were in jail and the tenure of the House was increased from five to six years in the absence of several top leaders The privileges under Article 105 were snatched away he saidHe further spoke about Justice HR Khanna who had dissented in a landmark ruling during the Emergency regarding the suspension of fundamental rightsBrave judge HR Khanna who had ruled that the fundamental rights of the people cannot be taken away during the Emergency was praised for his dissent across the world However this very Congress party did not let him become the Chief Justice for even 45 days These people talk about democracy Prasad saidThe BJP MP also recalled the condition of socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan during the Emergency saying he suffered severe health problems while in detentionJayaprakash Narayan was diagnosed with severe chronic kidney failure in October 1975 while he was detained at PGI Chandigarh during the Emergency and had to undergo lifelong dialysis he saidPrasad said that even after Narayan was admitted to Jaslok Hospital in Bombay for treatment restrictions were placed on himWhile receiving treatment at Jaslok Hospital Bombay doctors had said that it was necessary for him to sit in the sun for an hour every day However it was not allowed because people might see him and come out in his support After some legal process he was finally allowed to sit in the sun for an hour Prasad saidAs Prasad made these remarks Opposition MPs including members of the Samajwadi Party began raising slogans in the HouseResponding to the disruptions he said Now who will tell them that even Mulayam Singh Yadav was in jail during that timeThe debate over the motion against the Speaker had already sparked sharp exchanges in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday particularly over who would preside over the House in the absence of Speaker Om BirlanbspThe Opposition had argued that members of the panel who preside over proceedings are nominated by the Speaker himself and therefore should not chair the House during discussions related to the motion against himnbspAddressing Dilip Saikia who was in the Chair at the time Prasad defended the constitutional provisions governing such situationsEvery time it was asked how the Chair can preside Who chose you he said before referring to Articles 93 94 95 and 96 of the ConstitutionUnder the Constitution the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected A Speaker can also be removed through a noconfidence motion Yesterday several members asked why you are sitting there I would like to say that it is because the Constitution allows you to Prasad saidDuring his speech Prasad also read out certain excerpts from the Lok Sabha rule book to underline the procedural framework governing the functioning of the House IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ravi-shankar-prasad-slams-oppn-in-ls-for-questioning-chairs-power-calls-out-lop-gandhis-conduct-664792.html Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-assembly-adjourned-sine-die-house-functioned-for-184-hours-across-24-sittings-664795.html Jaipur March 11 The fifth session of the 16th Rajasthan Legislative Assembly was adjourned sine die on Tuesday at 606 pm Speaker Vasudev Devnani announced this on Wednesday morning Reviewing the session Devnani said the Assembly held 24 sittings during which discussions and legislative business continued for about 184 hours The Speaker said extensive discussions were held on the Motion of Thanks on the Governorâs AddressMembers of the BJP participated in the debate for 13 hours 14 minutes while the Congress spoke for 10 hours 52 minutes Legislators from other parties contributed 1 hour and 37 minutesDuring the general discussion on the Budget Estimates for 202627 BJP members spoke for 9 hours 42 minutes Congress members for 8 hours 19 minutes and other parties for 1 hour 21 minutesOn the Demands for Grants BJP legislators participated for 36 hours 56 minutes Congress members for 21 hours 26 minutes and other parties for 4 hours 25 minutesDevnani said the Assembly received 8919 questions during the session These included 4311 starred questions 4603 unstarred questions and five shortnotice questionsOf the starred questions 440 were listed and 232 were answered orally in the House A total of 451 unstarred questions were also listedHe noted that during the past four sessions of the 16th Assembly the state government responded to 22074 out of 22735 questions achieving a response rate of about 97 per cent which he described as a record for the Assembly Under Rule 50 notices for 371 adjournment motions were received Of these 84 were admitted for discussion and 77 members presented their viewsUnder Rule 295 339 notices for special mentions were received out of which 309 were either read out in the House or deemed to have been read The Assembly also received 850 callingattention notices of which 33 were listed on the House agenda A total of 10 bills were introduced and passed during the session The House received 171 amendment proposals of which 17 were ruled inadmissible and 154 were acceptedThe Assembly held a fourday general discussion on the 2026â27 Budget with 84 MLAs participating Out of 64 demands for grants 16 were discussed over eight days A total of 3935 cut motions were submitted of which 3599 were presented in the HouseDevnani said the Assembly received 226 petitions of which 52 were presented in the House In addition 37 reports of various committees were tabled during the sessionOn the conclusion of the session Devnani thanked all legislators for their cooperation in ensuring the smooth functioning of the House He also acknowledged the support of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel Government Chief Whip Jogeshwar Garg and Opposition Chief Whip Rafiq KhanThe Speaker also expressed gratitude to officials of the Legislative Assembly Secretariat the state administration the police department for security arrangements and media representatives for ensuring wide coverage of the House proceedings IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/rajasthan-assembly-adjourned-sine-die-house-functioned-for-184-hours-across-24-sittings-664795.html Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/huge-lpg-shortage-in-country-modi-govts-feeble-foreign-policy-to-blame-kejriwal-664798.html New Delhi March 11 IANS Aam Aadmi Party AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said that the country is going through troubling times due to acute LPG shortage which is only going to worsen with the deepening West Asia crisis and pinned the blame on the Narendra Modi governments feeble and pliable foreign policynbspAddressing a press conference in the capital Kejriwal claimed that the nations LPG production has reduced by about 50 per cent and its fallout is visible primarily in the commercial sector as multiple restaurants are pulling their shutters downHolding the government responsible for the LPG crisis he said that had the Modi government sustained Indias longstated policy of nonalignment and not gravitated towards the US and Israel in this war in West Asia this could have been avoided He highlighted that despite the major blockade the oil ships of Irans friendly nations are still passing through the Strait of Hormuz60 per cent of the countrys LPG reserves are imported from abroad out of this 90 per cent comes through the Strait of Hormuz that remains in control of Iranian forces he claimedKejriwal further said that restaurants and hotel industry is mainly bearing the brunt and thousands of them are on the brink of closure leaving thousands of jobs at stakeThe former Delhi CM also accused the government of bowing down to American pressure abandoning Indias own interests and not showing the countrys resolve in its foreign policyHe claimed that many ordinary officials of the Donald Trump administration are making objectionable and abominable utterances against the Indian government and Prime Minister without any restraint and said the country of 140 crores was feeling embarrassed about itClaiming that the Modi government has been following the Trump administrations diktats he said that India reduced duty on cotton and stopped buying Russian oil at the behest of the US President and this has severely impacted the country monetarily as well as in terms of job lossesHe said that the weak Prime Minister is being blackmailed by the Trump administration and the nation of 140 crore Indians is furious over this capitulationIndia must not be made to bow before the US Indias foreign policy should be centred around its people and not be influenced by foreign pressures he demanded IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/huge-lpg-shortage-in-country-modi-govts-feeble-foreign-policy-to-blame-kejriwal-664798.html Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-criticises-centres-west-asia-policy-664614.html New Delhi March 10 Congress on Monday expressed grave concern over External Affairs Minister S Jaishankarâs parliamentary statement describing it as âvapidâ and inadequate in addressing Indiaâs strategic challenges in West Asia Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid on behalf of the partyâs Foreign Affairs Department said the External Affairs Minister has failed to register any protest against the sinking of IRIS Dena in Indiaâs strategic backyard a development that compromises Indiaâs role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean RegionThe party also noted that the statement did not condemn the targeted killing of the head of state of a sovereign nation nor did it offer solutions to mitigate the serious geoeconomic and geopolitical costs India is bearing or the escalations it may faceThe Congress pointed out that the EAMâs statement lacked concrete proposals to safeguard Indiaâs strategic investments and bilateral trade in crude oil basmati rice urea and fertilisers as well as measures to protect the nine million Indians living in West AsiaThe party further criticised the absence of any roadmap to diversify Indiaâs energy security needs or reassert energy sovereignty which it said is currently being dictated by foreign powers offering only a 30day OFAC waiverThe statement also accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of âilladvised endorsement of the warâ through his recent trip arguing that it has contributed to the perception that India is abdicating moral leadership of the Global South ironically in a year when India chairs BRICSThe Congress alleged that the Prime Ministerâs actions have made India appear complicit in dismantling the rulesbased global orderThe party said that the External Affairs Ministerâs remarks were âbereft of any lasereyed insights into the paradigm global shift underwayâ and failed to present a structured vision for India to navigate global disruptions or defend its values and interests in an increasingly unstable worldThe party went on to assert that Prime Minister Modiâs foreign policy âmisadventurismâ coupled with what it described as the BJP governmentâs undermining of the Indian Foreign Service is pushing India into âvassalageâ and circumscribing the bipartisan strategic and diplomatic achievements since independenceThe statement was formally issued by the Foreign Affairs Department of the Congress IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/congress-criticises-centres-west-asia-policy-664614.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 07:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/minister-ganesh-kumar-row-puts-kerala-cm-vijayan-in-a-spot-over-past-probity-stand-664688.html Thiruvananthapuram March 10 A fresh controversy surrounding Kerala Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar has snowballed into a major political embarrassment for Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reviving old statements by the latter on probity in public life and triggering allegations of double standards from the Opposition The latest row erupted after Ganesh Kumarâs present wife allegedly caught the minister redhanded in an extramarital relationship on SaturdayThe incident quickly spiraled into a political issue after she reportedly sought help from the police helpline and later informed Veena Vijayan daughter of the Chief MinisterVeenas husband P A Mohammed Riyas is Tourism and Public Works Minister and a cabinet colleague of the Transport MinisterWhat has intensified the controversy is the resurfacing of old video clips of Vijayan from 2013 when he was the state secretary of the Communist Party of India MarxistIn those statements Vijayan had demanded the immediate resignation of Ganesh Kumar from the Oommen Chandy Cabinet after the ministers then wife complained about his alleged wayward personal lifeTelevision channels on Monday repeatedly aired those remarks along with statements made at the time by the late Kodiyeri Balakrishnan then the CPIMs secondincommandBoth leaders had strongly argued that ministers must uphold the highest standards of personal and public conductGanesh Kumar eventually resigned from the Chandy ministry in 2013 following the controversyThe resurfacing of those remarks has now placed the present Left Democratic Front government in an uncomfortable position with critics pointing to what they call a stark contradiction between past rhetoric and present silenceAdding to the intrigue is the allegation that despite the ministers wife seeking police assistance during the incident the police personnel who arrived expressed their inability to interveneThe Congressled United Democratic Front has demanded Ganesh Kumars immediate resignation accusing the government of shielding the ministerOpposition leaders said the silence of Vijayan and senior Left leaders is in sharp contrast to their earlier moral posturing on public ethicsThe controversy has also exploded across social media where users have been circulating the 2013 video clips and posting a wave of biting satire and political memes targeting the governmentWith the state cabinet meeting scheduled for Tuesday morning attention is now firmly on Vijayan and Ganesh KumarWhether the Chief Minister maintains silence or acts on the issue could determine whether the row remains a social media storm or escalates into a fullblown political crisis IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/minister-ganesh-kumar-row-puts-kerala-cm-vijayan-in-a-spot-over-past-probity-stand-664688.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/minister-ganesh-kumar-row-wife-says-issue-resolved-will-not-pursue-complaint-664690.html Thiruvananthapuram March 10 In a dramatic turn to the controversy surrounding Kerala Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar his wife Bindu Menon on Tuesday said she will not pursue any complaint against the minister stating that the issue arose out of an emotional moment and has now been resolved Her statement came nearly 24 hours after she publicly accused the minister of catching him red handed engaged in an extra marital relationship Soon this snowballed into a political controversy and dominated television debates and social media discussions across the stateBindu Menon said her intention was never to create embarrassment for the government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi VijayanMy intention was never to tarnish anyone or the government What happened was an emotional outburst she said adding that the minister had since spoken to her and apologisedAccording to her Ganesh Kumar had initially tried to reach her over the phone but was unable to do soHe spoke to my sister after I failed to pick up his call Later he contacted me and apologised she saidStating that the matter is now closed from her side Bindu Menon said she has decided not to move forward with any legal complaintI am not going ahead with any complaint Everyone makes mistakes she saidShe also made it clear that she did not expect the minister to apologise publicly over the controversyHe need not apologise to the public I am his wife and the matter concerns us personally she saidRejecting suggestions that she was seeking revenge she said she continues to care deeply for her husbandI will not take revenge I like my husband very much she said Bindu Menon added that she had received numerous calls after the issue became public but chose not to respond to most of themMany people called me but I did not pick up Now things have blown over and I request everyone to leave my personal life out of this she saidHer statement has come at a time when the controversy had triggered sharp political reactions with the United Democratic Front demanding the resignation of the ministerAll eyes are on Vijayan as there is a cabinet meeting here commencing shortly IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/minister-ganesh-kumar-row-wife-says-issue-resolved-will-not-pursue-complaint-664690.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-extends-birthday-wishes-to-jampk-cm-abdullah-prays-for-his-long-life-and-good-health-664692.html New Delhi March 10 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended birthday greetings to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah wishing him a long life and good health Taking to social media platform X the Prime Minister conveyed his wishes to the National Conference leader on the occasion of his birthdayGreetings to Jammu and Kashmir CM Shri Omar Abdullah Ji on his birthday May he be blessed with a long life and wonderful health PM Modi saidOmar Abdullah was born on March 10 1970 in Rochford Essex England He belongs to one of the most prominent political families in Jammu and Kashmir His grandfather Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah popularly known as the âLion of Kashmirâ was a towering political figure in the region and played a crucial role in shaping its political landscape In 1939 Sheikh Abdullah founded the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference which later emerged as one of the regionâs most influential political partiesOmarâs father Farooq Abdullah also served multiple terms as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and has been a key leader in the National Conference His mother Mollie Abdullah is British which gave Omar a multicultural upbringing that combined influences from both India and the United KingdomFor his early education Omar studied at Burn Hall School in Srinagar and later attended the Lawrence School in Sanawar Himachal Pradesh He subsequently moved to Mumbai where he completed his Bachelorâs degree in Commerce from Sydenham College After finishing his undergraduate studies he pursued higher education in Scotland and obtained a postgraduate degree in Business Administration from the University of StrathclydeOmar Abdullah entered politics at a relatively young age In 1998 he was elected to the 12th Lok Sabha from the Srinagar parliamentary constituency becoming one of the youngest Members of Parliament at the time He was reelected in the 1999 general elections and soon joined the Atal Bihari Vajpayeeled government as Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry In 2001 he was appointed Union Minister of State for External AffairsIn a significant political development Omar Abdullah took oath as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir on October 16 2024 His swearingin marked the formation of the first elected government in the region after it was reorganised as a Union Territory following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 His party the National Conference secured a strong mandate in the Assembly elections by winning 42 out of the 90 seatsThe oathtaking ceremony was held in Srinagar and was attended by several prominent political leaders including Congress MP Rahul Gandhi Omar Abdullahâs Cabinet includes five ministers from the National Conference while the Congress party extended outside support to the government without joining the CabinetDuring his inaugural address Abdullah emphasised the importance of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and addressing the concerns of residents who felt sidelined during the period of Presidential ruleFollowing the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 Omar Abdullah was placed under preventive detention for several months In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections he contested from the Baramulla constituency but was defeated by Engineer Sheikh RashidApart from his political career Omar Abdullah has also been associated with initiatives aimed at promoting education and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir He has supported various charitable activities and trusts working for social welfareOmar Abdullah married Payal Nath in 1994 though the couple separated in 2011 They have two sons Zahir and ZamirOver the years Abdullah has remained an influential political figure in Jammu and Kashmir balancing his familyâs political legacy with his own leadership while addressing the regionâs complex political and social challenges IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-extends-birthday-wishes-to-jampk-cm-abdullah-prays-for-his-long-life-and-good-health-664692.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/our-entire-hotel-commercial-industry-hit-matter-must-be-discussed-in-parliament-ktaka-deputy-cm-664695.html Bengaluru March 10 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President DK Shivakumar on Tuesday said issues such as the reported shortage of LPG cylinders and rising fuel prices must be discussed in Parliament accusing the Union government of avoiding debate on matters affecting people and businesses Our entire hotel and commercial industry has been affected he statedSpeaking to reporters in Bengaluru Dy CM Shivakumar said the issue had already been raised by members of the INDIA Bloc and that several MPs had staged protests demanding a discussionâForeign policy is not about today alone The stocks of diesel are finishing It is our right to raise our voice Our entire hotel and commercial industry has been affected It is the duty of the government to provide petrol diesel and gas which are used by households It has become a big problemâ he said adding that such matters must be debated openly in ParliamentâThe government should discuss the shortage of LPG cylinders in Parliament Our members have raised the issue and the Central government has allowed them to discuss it All INDIA Bloc MPs have staged a protest Why are they fearing discussionâ he saidHe also stated that the situation regarding fuel supplies was becoming serious and affecting multiple sectorsDy CM Shivakumar further said the issue had implications beyond India particularly for people working abroadâAll businessmen and workers from India in the Middle East especially Saudi Arabia are affected Their families are upset This is a big failure on the part of the Centre We will raise our voice unitedlyâ he saidReferring to the recent increase in cooking gas prices he said the price of LPG cylinders had been hiked by Rs 60 on the occasion of International Womenâs Day and questioned why MPs from the state were not raising the issueâNot a single MP from the state is talking about it Let them speak about it They raise their voices for everything elseâ he saidResponding to remarks by former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda regarding the Mekedatu and Yettinahole projects Shivakumar said Gowda was free to raise the matter in Parliament and offer suggestionsâHe has spoken about Mekedatu and Yettinahole projects Let him discuss it in Parliament I will publicly state what we have done during our tenure It will not be good if I say anything against him at this age It would amount to attacking him I am not willing to attack him Let him suggest the solution I do not want to hurt his feelingsâ he saidDy CM Shivakumar also said he would explain several political matters after completing six years as the Karnataka Congress PresidentâOn completion of six years as the State Congress President I will explain everything Not today I am planning to hold a press conference tomorrow Today I have invited only legislators I have also invited AICC secretaries who are in Bengaluru and parliamentary candidates to the party I will talk to the media laterâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/our-entire-hotel-commercial-industry-hit-matter-must-be-discussed-in-parliament-ktaka-deputy-cm-664695.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/telanganas-newly-appointed-governor-shiv-pratap-shukla-arrives-in-hyderabad-664700.html Hyderabad March 10 Telanganas newlyappointed Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla arrived here on Tuesday Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy received him at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport RGIAIndustries and IT Minister D Sridhar Babu Chief Secretary K Ramakrishna Rao Director General of Police B Shivadhar Reddy and other senior officials were also present to receive ShuklaPresident Droupadi Murmu on Thursday appointed Shukla as the Governor of TelanganaHe is likely to take oath as the new Governor on WednesdayShukla who is currently serving as Governor of Himachal Pradesh will succeed Jishnu Dev Varma who has been appointed as the Governor of MaharashtraVarma had assumed charge as the Governor of Telangana on July 31 2024 He was accorded a warm farewell on Monday Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao Hyderabad District Collector Harichandana Dasari Special Chief Secretary Dana Kishore and other officials bid farewell to Varma and his family membersShiv Pratap Shukla was sworn in as the Governor of Himachal Pradesh on February 18 2023Born April 1 1952 in Rudrapur village of Gorakhpur district in Uttar Pradesh he was associated with Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad ABVP in his student daysHe joined the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP in 1983 and was elected from Gorakhpur Nagar assembly constituency for the first time in 1989 He was reelected in 1991 and took the charge of Minister of State independent charge of Basic Education Adult Education and Language Department in the government of Kalyan Singh the Chief Minister of the first BJP government of Uttar Pradesh He also held the portfolios of Horticulture Sports Youth Welfare and Food ProcessingAfter being elected to assembly for the fourth time in 1996 he discharged his duties as Cabinet Minister of Prison Law and Justice and Rural Development Department in the governments of Kalyan Singh Ram Prakash Gupta and Rajnath SinghIn 2016 he was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha from Uttar Pradesh and in 2017 took over the responsibility of the Minister of State for Finance in the Modi government He served as a Rajya Sabha member till July 4 2022 IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/telanganas-newly-appointed-governor-shiv-pratap-shukla-arrives-in-hyderabad-664700.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/charlapalli-kamakhya-amrit-bharat-train-to-be-launched-on-march-13-664710.html Hyderabad March 10 A new Amrit Bharat Express train between Charlapalli Station near Hyderabad and Kamakhya a famous pilgrim place in Assam will be flagged off on March 13 from Kamakhya the South Central Railway announced on Tuesday The new train connects Telangana Andhra Pradesh with Assam which acts as a gate way to seven sister states of the regionThe train with sleeper and general secondclass coaches will immensely benefit the longdistance passengers especially travelling towards North eastern parts of India to have safe comfortable and costeffective journey the SCR saidThis train will stop at Srikakulam Road Vizianagaram Junction Pendurti Duvvada Samalkot Junction Rajahmundry Tanuku Bhimavaram Town Gudivada Vijayawada Guntur and Nalgonda stations in both the directionsCherlapalli terminal station was inaugurated in January last year Built at a cost of Rs 413 crore it is the fifth terminus for Greater Hyderabad after Nampally Secunderabad Kacheguda and LingampallyTwo days ago the railways had announced a new Amrit Bharat Express train between Nagercoil in Tamil Nadu and CharlapalliThis new train will further improve connectivity between Tamil Nadu Andhra Pradesh and Telangana It is expected to immensely benefit the long distance passengers to have a comfortable journeyThe train is expected to cover a distance of more than 1500 km in around 2830 hours It will pass through major stations such as Madurai Junction Tiruchchirapali Tirupati etcThe Amrit Bharat Express known for its popularity among the middle class and common passengersThese stateoftheart indigenous trains are providing passengers with a fast safe and comfortable travel experienceAccording to officials these trains are contributing to economic growth by promoting tourism trade and employment opportunitiesDeveloped by Indian Railways the Amrit Bharat Express has emerged as a symbol of modernisation in the national railway systemThe trains are equipped with advanced features including semiautomatic couplers fire detection systems sealed gangways and talkback units For the first time advanced technology has also been introduced in nonAC coaches to enhance passenger safety IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/charlapalli-kamakhya-amrit-bharat-train-to-be-launched-on-march-13-664710.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/over-25-lakh-rooftop-solar-systems-installed-under-pm-surya-ghar-yojana-664712.html New Delhi March 10 A total of 2502217 rooftop solar systems have been installed under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana as on March 5 2026 the Parliament was informed on Tuesday Under the scheme funds amounting to Rs 1458529 crore have been utilised in FY26 till March 5 against Rs 782292 crore in FY25Under the scheme 6326125 applications have been received on the National Portal and a total of 2502217 rooftop solar systems have been installed as on 05032026 Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik told the Rajya SabhaLaunched in 2024 the PM Muft Bijli Yojana is a demanddriven scheme wherein all residential consumers in the country having grid connected electricity connection of the local discom can avail the benefits of the scheme for the installation of Rooftop Solar systems by applying on the National Portal of the schemeThe government estimates that installations of rooftop solar systems in one crore households could produce renewable electricity of 1000 billion units potentially reducing emissions by 720 million tonnes of carbon dioxide CO2 equivalent over the 25âyear lifetime of the systemsThe top five states in implementation as of 2025end include Gujarat Maharashtra Uttar Pradesh Kerala and RajasthanReplying to a separate question the minister said a total of 26678 GW nonfossil fuel sourcebased electricity capacity has been installed in the country as of December 31 2025This includes 25800 GW Renewable Energy 13581 GW Solar Power 5451 GW Wind Power 1161 GW Bio Energy 516 GW Small Hydro Power 5091 GW Large Hydro Power and 878 GW Nuclear Power capacity said NaikThe government is also implementing the National Green Hydrogen Mission NGHM with an objective to make India a global hub of production usage and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives the minister added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/over-25-lakh-rooftop-solar-systems-installed-under-pm-surya-ghar-yojana-664712.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/no-shortage-of-rs-10-rs-20-and-rs-50-bank-notes-in-country-minister-664716.html New Delhi March 10 There is no shortage of lowerdenomination currency notes of Rs 10 Rs 20 and Rs 50 in circulation in the country the government told the Parliament on Tuesday Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary in a reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha said that as per the RBI lowerdenomination banknotes have not been traditionally dispensed through ATMsA pilot project for dispensing lower denomination banknotes through small value dispensers has been launched he informed the houseAccording to the government in the current financial year up to February 26 43940 crore pieces of Rs 10 denomination notes 19370 crore pieces of Rs 20 and 13030 crore pieces of Rs 50 bank notes have been supplied by the central bankIn the last fiscal FY25 180 crore pieces of Rs 10 banknotes 150 crore pieces of Rs 20 and 300 crore pieces of Rs 50 were suppliedThe RBI as part of a continuous process assesses the requirement of different denominations of banknotes and makes recommendations to the government on the required denomination mix to be printedThe demand for lower denominations of currency is met through a mix of banknotes and coins Besides the digital modes of payment constitute a significant portion of the overall transactions including lowvalue transactionsThe RBI has informed that it endeavours to put adequate quantities of banknotes and coins of different denominations in circulation on a continuous basis to meet the demand of the economy said the ministerReplying to another question the minister said that as reported by the National Payment Corporation of India NPCI the total number of digital transactions reported through RuPay KCC cards in FY 202526 up to December 31 2025 is 372 lakh with a value of Rs 11117 croreThe credit limit to all eligible farmers under KCC is determined according to the scale of finance of the crops area under cultivation cropping pattern and related requirements IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/no-shortage-of-rs-10-rs-20-and-rs-50-bank-notes-in-country-minister-664716.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/younger-brother-to-me-but-rijiju-counters-gaurav-gogois-interrupter-charge-664717.html New Delhi March 10 Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju responding to Congress MP Gaurav Gogoiâs charge of his being the biggest interrupter in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday said that the Opposition MP was entitled to his views but remains immature and uninformed enough to understand the role and responsibility of the ministry concerned Rijiju in his reply to the opposition motion against Speaker Om Birla said all members including the ruling and Opposition MPs are all bound by laws and regulations as mandated by the ConstitutionWhen any individual considers himself above everything else it is pertinent that he be called out he said in a pointed but veiled reference to Leader of Opposition Rahul GandhiResponding to Gogoiâs claims Rijiju said that he made a comment against him He has been a threetime member of the Parliament but he is not aware of the responsibilities of the Parliamentary Affairs Ministry he addedHe is a younger brother to me but before taking a swipe at the role and responsibility of the Parliamentary Affairs Ministry one should learn and understand the nittygritty of the working culture he addedEarlier Congress MP Gogoi said In future when there will be research on parliamentary records statistics will tell that Kiren Rijiju was the Parliamentary Affairs Minister who interrupted the Opposition the mostRijiju further slamming the Opposition over bringing a motion to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said that it is a known fact that the Speaker comes from the ruling party but again it is an established fact that once a Speaker is always the SpeakerWhen the Speaker chairs the House proceedings it is expected of him that he remains impartial and unbiased he said and counted the unprecedented changes that were brought under Birlaâs tenureUnprecedented reforms have taken place during Om Birlaâs tenure new members have been given maximum opportunity to speak in the House Urgent matters of public matters have been raised for maximum times in his tenure The transition to paperless parliament making the records digital â all that has been done under Om Birlaâs supervision he pointed out while lamenting the Oppositionâs motion against him IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/younger-brother-to-me-but-rijiju-counters-gaurav-gogois-interrupter-charge-664717.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-minister-ganesh-kumar-rules-out-resignation-as-row-escalates-opposition-demands-ouster-664718.html Thiruvananthapuram March 10 Kerala Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar on Tuesday ruled out resigning over the controversy triggered by allegations raised by his wife saying the media had blown the issue out of proportion Ganesh Kumar also maintained that there was no longer any complaint from his wife indicating that the matter had been settled within the familyThe minister had earlier met Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and explained his position amid the escalating controversyEven as the government has treated the complaint as a personal family dispute the issue has triggered sharp political reactions and raised questions about the credibility of the Left Democratic Front LDF governmentLeader of the Opposition VD Satheesan said the allegations were grave in nature and insisted that the minister should be ousted from the CabinetHe added that the Congressled United Democratic Front UDF has always stood by what it speaks especially on issues concerning womenâs safety and public moralitySenior Congress leader K Muraleedharan said Vijayan has often spoken about morality in politics and the need to ensure the safety of womenHe has to break his silence on the double standards that the CPIM always takes he saidThe controversy erupted after the ministerâs wife reportedly dialled helpline number 112 alleging assault at homeHowever the police who reached the spot reportedly did not initiate any action and later withdrew saying there was little they could do as it appeared to be a domestic disputeThere were also claims that the Chief Ministerâs daughter had been informed about the incident though no official intervention followedThe opposition is expected to raise the issue strongly during the election campaign questioning the governmentâs response in the case involving the ministerThey have contrasted it with the swift action taken in the rape cases registered against Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil where a special investigation team was appointed to speed up the probeThe party later expelled the firsttime young MLAMeanwhile SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan strongly criticised Ganesh Kumar alleging that his conduct had damaged the governmentâs image and describing the controversy as a rot within the CabinetHe said the issue does not end merely because the complaint was withdrawn and urged the Chief Minister to take a decision that would satisfy the peopleReports also suggest that discontent exists within the ruling front including sections of the Communist Party of India over Ganesh Kumar continuing as a minister TV channels and social media are flush with activity on the harsh statement that Vijayan made in 2013 when Ganesh Kumar as Minister in the then Oommen Chandy government came under duress from his then wifeVijayan slammed Chandy for shielding Ganesh Kumar then and the latter had subsequently resigned IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/kerala-minister-ganesh-kumar-rules-out-resignation-as-row-escalates-opposition-demands-ouster-664718.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/ls-speaker-perfected-art-of-turning-off-microphones-for-oppn-mps-says-mahua-moitra-664722.html New Delhi March 10 Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on Tuesday said that Speaker Om Birla has perfected the art of turning off the microphones for Opposition MPs She supported the motion of no confidence against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and raised several objections regarding parliamentary procedures during the debate in the HouseSpeaking during the discussion Moitra stated It seems that the Speaker has perfected the art of turning off the microphones for the Opposition membersShe claimed that ruling party members are allowed to speak endlessly while the time for Opposition members is often cut short whenever they try to address the AssemblyThe Speaker has systematically stifled the voice of the Opposition and by extension the voice of 410 million Indians she saidSpeaking during the discussion Moitra said that the consensus of the Lok Sabha had not been taken regarding who would preside over the proceedings during the debate on the motionShe also pointed out that the Constitution mandates that the posts of Speaker and Deputy Speaker should be filled as soon as they fall vacant but there is currently no Deputy Speaker in the Lok SabhaOpening the debate on behalf of the Trinamool Congress Moitra said Today I stand in this House with a heavy heart but with a complete clarity of purpose to support the motion of Noconfidence against the Speaker of the 18th Lok Sabha for presiding over the liquidation of the functioning of the parliamentary democracyShe also referred to her own expulsion from the Lok Sabha in the previous Parliament and said the current debate carried a sense of irony for herIt is richly ironical a divine karma actually that I the lady MP who was illegally witchhunted by this misogynistic government wrongly expelled by the ethics committee which had no power to expel after a motion in which I was not allowed to speak Whether Speaker in violation of every principle of natural justice did not allow me to defend myself Today I am opening the debate for my party on the motion of no confidence against that very Speaker You cant run away from karma she saidMoitra said that the motion was part of a long parliamentary tradition and cited earlier instances when similar resolutions were moved against Lok Sabha SpeakersIt is a fitting tribute to the vibrancy of Indias democracy and the strength of Indias dissenting voices that a motion of no confidence was opened against the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha GV Mavalankar in 1954 He was accused of officially espousing the cause of the official spokesperson of the ruling party in all matters and causing serious danger to the functioning of the Lok Sabha she saidReferring to the debate that followed that motion Moitra said that then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had participated and had suggested that the Opposition should be given more time than the government during discussionsPandit Nehru who was then PM participated in the debate and said that more time should be allotted to the Opposition than to the government benches Pandit Nehru as the PM said this what is the tradition that we are following today she askedThe Trinamool MP also mentioned two other occasions when similar motions had been moved against Lok Sabha Speakers She referred to the second such motion in 1966 against Speaker Sardar Hukum Singh and another in 1987 against Speaker Balram JakharThe resolution was critical of Jhakars rulings which denied the Opposition MPs from moving the adjournment motions And what do we have today We have a Speaker who has not allowed a single adjournment motion she saidMoitra reiterated that the Constitution requires both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions to be filled but noted that the Deputy Speakers post currently remains vacantShe also alleged that the House was not consulted on the decision regarding who would preside over the proceedings on the motionDuring her speech Moitra accused Speaker Om Birla of ordering the largest mass suspension of MPs in the history of the Indian ParliamentThis one episode alone accounted for over 40 per cent of all Lok Sabha suspensions since 2004 she said adding that the suspensions took place when MPs were demanding a government statement on a breach of Parliament securityShe also claimed that not a single suspension was from the ruling partyHer remarks drew objections from BJP members in the House following which Krishna Prasad Tenneti who was presiding over the proceedings said that an objectionable word used by Moitra would be removed from the recordDuring the exchange Moitra responded to a marshal whose voice could be heard through the Speakers microphone asking him to stop speaking and saying he is sitting on the chair and not youShe continued her remarks regarding the suspension of MPs but Tenneti intervened to clarify that MPs are suspended by the House and not directly by the SpeakerResponding to this Moitra said I am glad that you are reminded of this by the marshal and I will take your point and she thanked the marshal again before modifying her statement to say that the Speaker presided over the House during the suspensionsIn a lighter remark she said the marshal should perhaps be added as the tenth member of the panel of chairpersonsThe comment triggered further protests from BJP members BJP MP Bhartruhari Mahtab asked Tenneti to caution Moitra over such remarks saying they were inappropriateTenneti said he agreed with the objection and noted that Moitras comments were directed against the ChairMoitra responded by saying We are moving a noconfidence motion against the Chair obviously the comments will be against the Chair IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/ls-speaker-perfected-art-of-turning-off-microphones-for-oppn-mps-says-mahua-moitra-664722.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/madurai-airport-to-become-international-airport-cabinet-664724.html New Delhi March 10 The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday approved the declaration of Tamil Nadus Madurai Airport as an international airport Located in the Temple City the airport at Madurai is one of the oldest in the stateIt serves as a crucial gateway to southern Tamil Nadu and plays a pivotal role in promoting tourism and pilgrimage thereby contributing to the overall growth of the region according to a Cabinet noteElevating Madurai Airport to International Status would enhance regional connectivity promote trade and drive economic development in the region The airports potential to attract international pilgrims and businesses aligns with the citys historical prominence it addedThe government aims to have 350 airports by 2047 India currently operates 164 airports and aims to add approximately 200 more by 2047 said Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu recently adding that the challenge is not about constructing airports but about how to bring in more aircraft to IndiaIndia is ready to take the next step in civil aviation by getting the manufacturing ecosystem ready according to Naidu He said recently the manufacturing ecosystem will not only cater to domestic demand that is going to grow in the next 1020 years but India can become a place for global exportersReferring to the demand and growth in civil aviation he noted that the country has doubled the airports passenger growth and aircraft fleet during the last 10 years thanks to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the kind of reforms he brought in civil aviation especially the UDAN schemeThe minister stated that the Civil Aviation ministry stands committed to providing necessary help to all those who want to partner with India in manufacturing in the aviation sector IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/madurai-airport-to-become-international-airport-cabinet-664724.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/cabinet-extends-jal-jeevan-mission-till-dec-2028-ups-outlay-to-rs-869-lakh-crore-664727.html New Delhi March 10 The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday approved a proposal to restructure and reorient the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission from infrastructure creation to service delivery supported by drinking water governance and institutional ecosystem for sustainable rural piped potable water supply For restructuring Jal Jeevan Mission JJM focusing on structural reforms the Cabinet has approved an increase in the total outlay to Rs 869 lakh crore with total Central assistance of Rs 359 lakh crore up from Rs 208 lakh crore approved in 201920 The additional Central share works out to Rs 151 lakh crore according to a Cabinet communiqueA uniform national digital framework namely Sujalam Bharat is being instituted under which every village shall be assigned a unique Sujal GaonService Area ID digitally mapping the complete drinking water supply system from source to tap For ensuring transparency and accountability the involvement of GPs and VWSCs in the commissioning and formal handover of schemes through Jal Arpan the statement saidA Gram Panchayat will have to certify completion of works and declare itself Har Ghar Jal only upon confirmation that adequate invillage operation and maintenance mechanisms have been established by the state government Recognising that community ownership and participation are critical for operational efficiency and source sustainability the programme will promote Jal Utsav as an annual communityled maintenance and review event integrating local cultural ethos while reinforcing collective responsibility for a drinking water secure future the communique saidFrom the baseline of 323 crore 17 per cent rural households with tap water connections in 2019 so far more than 1256 crore additional rural households have been provided with tap water connections under JJM At present out of 1936 crore rural households identified by the statesUTs in the country around 1580 crore 8161 per cent households are reported to have tap water connections as on dateBeyond the physical achievements the impact of JJM has been assessed by reputed national and international institutions individuals SBI Research reported that JJM has freed 9 crore women from fetching water enabling greater participation in other economic activities The World Health Organisation WHO estimated a reduction in womens drudgery by saving 55 crore hours daily prevention of 400000 diarrheal deaths and savings of 14 million Disability Adjusted Life Years DALYs Nobel laureate Prof Michael Kremer estimated a potential of 30 per cent reduction in underfive mortality saving 136000 lives annually IIM Bangalore amp International Labour Organisation ILO estimated generation of 599 lakh direct and 22 crore indirect personyears of potential employment strengthening rural livelihoods through JJM Women and the girl child have emerged as the principal beneficiaries of this intervention with substantial gains in terms of reduced drudgery improved health and hygiene enhanced dignity and greater opportunities for education and livelihood activitiesJJM 20 would facilitate the certification of all Gram Panchayats as âHar Ghar Jalâ by provisioning tap water connection to all the 1936 crore rural households across the country by December 2028 while ensuring adherence to timelines scheme sustainability and delivery of citizencentric water services through Separate MoUs with StateUTs JJM 20 also fosters the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 with assured 24Ã7 rural drinking water supply by shifting from an infrastructurecentric approach to a citizencentric utilitybased service delivery approach through structural reforms the statement saidWith the whole of Government approach strategic convergence among various Departments at the Centre for sustainable and longterm operation and maintenance of rural water supply infrastructure and scheme source sustenance has also been envisaged under Jal Jeevan Mission 20 the statement added IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/cabinet-extends-jal-jeevan-mission-till-dec-2028-ups-outlay-to-rs-869-lakh-crore-664727.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/punjab-minister-cheema-flays-congress-legislator-khaira-for-derogatory-comment-664729.html Chandigarh March 10 Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Cheema on Tuesday condemned derogatory remarks by Congress legislator Sukhpal Singh Khaira against women Speaking during proceedings in the Vidhan Sabha and later addressing the media Cheema demanded that the Congress high command expel Khaira from the party for his reprehensible conduct and deeply insulting comments directed at the mothers and daughters of PunjabThe condemnation came after Khaira reportedly questioned how women celebrating the announcement of Rs 1000 under the Mawan Dhian Satkar scheme could give birth to the braveResponding to the remark Cheema stated It is deeply shameful that a politician who has been elected multiple times from a state where Guru Nanak Dev preached So Kyon Manda Aakhiye Jit Jammeh Rajan Why call her bad from whom kings are born can so brazenly insult the mothers and daughters of our stateThe minister said such a regressive statement is shocking and unacceptable in Punjab a land that has always upheld the dignity and respect of womenFor a seasoned politician to make such a statement against women reflects a deeply regressive mindset and is an insult to the values that our society stands for he saidCheema said the state Congress leadership has completely lost control over its language and political intellectThe situation in the Congress has deteriorated to such an extent that even Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi have previously had to warn the state leadership to mind their conduct he saidHighlighting the impact of the governments prowomen initiatives Cheema referred to the Budget discussion and the Mawan Dhian Satkar schemeThis scheme is a lifeline for women who were previously forced to depend on their fathers brothers or husbands for even their most minor needs he saidHe added his Cabinet colleague Baljit Kaur had clearly explained during the Budget discussion how the financial assistance of Rs 1000 for general category women and Rs 1500 for Scheduled Caste category women will strengthen their financial independence and dignity IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/punjab-minister-cheema-flays-congress-legislator-khaira-for-derogatory-comment-664729.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/govt-approves-rs-3-63077-crore-for-greenfield-connectivity-to-jewar-international-airport-664731.html New Delhi March 10 The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs CCEA on Tuesday approved the revised total capital cost of Rs 363077 crore for the construction of greenfield connectivity to the Jewar International Airport from DelhiFaridabadBallabhgarhSohna spur of the DelhiMumbai Expressway on hybrid annuity mode in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana This 3142 kmlongproject corridor will provide direct and highspeed connectivity from south Delhi Faridabad and Gurugram to Jewar International Airport thereby promoting economic growth and logistics efficiency across the National Capital Region NCRThe corridor intersects the Eastern Peripheral Expressway the Yamuna Expressway and the Dedicated Freight Corridor DFC enabling multimodal transport convergenceThe elevated corridor is not merely a structural enhancement but a strategic enabler for urban transformation regional connectivity and national logistics efficiencyIts construction is imperative to unlock the full potential of the Jewar AirportâDelhiâMumbai Expressway corridor and to ensure sustainable urban development in Faridabad a Cabinet note saidAccording to the statement about 11 km length of this project is to be developed as an elevated highway which forms a critical segment of the greenfield connectivity between DNDBallabhgarh Bypass and the Jewar International Airport linking it to the DelhiMumbai ExpresswayThis corridor traverses the area earmarked for highdensity urban development and future infrastructure expansion under the Faridabad Master Plan 2031The additional cost of the proposed elevated corridor is Rs 68924 crore and the Haryana government has agreed to bear Rs 450 crore for the elevated corridorLast month the government approved the upgradation of two sections of National Highway56 to a 4lane in Gujarat with an outlay of Rs 458364 croreThis involves the construction of 4lane sections of DhamasiyaâBitadaMovi 4746 km and NasarporeâMalotha 6021 km in the state with a total project length of 10767 kms said the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs CCEA IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/govt-approves-rs-3-63077-crore-for-greenfield-connectivity-to-jewar-international-airport-664731.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/siddaramaiah-praises-shivakumars-leadership-for-six-years-as-congress-president-664733.html Bengaluru March 10 Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday congratulated Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar for completing six years as the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee KPCC praising his organisational abilities and commitment to the party The Chief Minister said Shivakumarâs organisational skills ideological commitment and hard work had become a model for young leaders in the Congress partySiddaramaiah said that despite facing several challenges including what he described as false cases filed by the opposition BJP and various forms of harassment Shivakumar had remained steadfast and loyal to the partyâThis reflects his uncompromising commitment to the Congress party His conduct has been inspiring for lakhs of Congress workersâ the Chief Minister saidHe added that Shivakumar had worked tirelessly along with party leaders and workers to defeat what he termed communal forces and bring the Congress party to power in the stateSiddaramaiah also noted that Shivakumar had stood âshoulder to shoulderâ with him in efforts to rebuild Karnataka as a state of peace and harmony for people of all communitiesThe Chief Minister further said that Shivakumar who is younger than him has a bright political future and expressed hope that the Congress party would return to power again in 2028âIt is the wish of all of us that the Congress party should come back to power in 2028 I will also join the partyâs organisational work and struggles to achieve that goalâ he saidMeanwhile Shivakumar defended Chief Minister Siddaramaiah after Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka launched an attack on the State Budget 2026â27 in the Assembly today Criticising the BJP for staging a protest with empty vessels on the day the Budget was presented he said âYou have brought empty vessels to Vidhana Soudha to protest even before the presentation of the Budget This shows your attitude We call Nirmala Sitharamanâs Budget an empty vesselâDeputy Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly and senior BJP MLA Arvind Bellad said that if Shivakumar was supporting Chief Minister Siddaramaiah it seemed that good news was comingShivakumar stood up and replied âYou donât have to dream about all thatâBJP State General Secretary and MLA V Sunil Kumar further taunted Shivakumar saying that he had not attended any of the preliminary Budget meetings chaired by Chief Minister SiddaramaiahâI did not see a single comment from you Shivakumar on the State Budget What is happening now Even for your two major departments you did not attend the Budget meetings There is no comment in the newspapers either supporting or opposing Siddaramaiahâs Budgetâ he saidLeader of the Opposition R Ashoka said that whatever Shivakumar had to convey he had already conveyed it in New Delhi IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/siddaramaiah-praises-shivakumars-leadership-for-six-years-as-congress-president-664733.html Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-to-address-post-budget-webinar-on-sabka-saath-sabka-vikas-today-664435.html New Delhi March 9 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a PostBudget Webinar on the theme âSabka Saath Sabka Vikas Fulfilling Aspirations of Peopleâ on Monday The event will begin at 1015 AM and will be held through video conferencing The webinar will focus on key areas highlighted in the Union Budget and aims to discuss ways to implement government policies effectivelySeveral breakout sessions will be organised during the event covering sectors such as education and skilling health and AYUSH tourism and hospitalityDuring the discussions participants will explore initiatives designed to strengthen the link between education and employmentThere will also be deliberations on developing content creator labs for Animation Visual Effects Gaming and Comics AVGC a sector that has been identified as a growing area for job creation and innovationIn the healthcare sector the sessions will examine plans to expand the training of allied health professionals and caregiversDiscussions will also focus on the development of regional medical hubs and the establishment of new institutions related to AYUSH systems of medicineTourismrelated initiatives will also be a major part of the webinar These include skill development in the hospitality sector promotion of sustainable tourism trails and development of Buddhist circuits in the NorthEastern region Efforts to promote heritage tourism will also be discussedAccording to the government the PostBudget Webinar is intended to bring together representatives from the government industry and various sectors to discuss practical ways of implementing the announcements made in the Union BudgetThe discussions are expected to generate actionable recommendations that can help accelerate inclusive growth and development across the countryMeanwhile earlier on Sunday the Prime Minister visited General Pool Residential Accommodation GPRA Redevelopment Plan in the national capitalPM Modi handed over the keys of the Type5 quarters to the female allottees IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-to-address-post-budget-webinar-on-sabka-saath-sabka-vikas-today-664435.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 07:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/not-enough-to-just-make-statements-oppn-questions-govt-after-eams-remarks-on-west-asia-crisis-664482.html New Delhi March 9 IANS Opposition leaders on Monday criticised the Union governments response to the escalating crisis in West Asia after External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made a statement in the Rajya Sabha regarding the ongoing conflict in the regionnbspCongress MP JB Mather said the global situation particularly in the Middle East was extremely tense and required serious discussion in ParliamentThe world is witnessing a very tense situation especially in the Middle East The oil crisis and the energy sector are being seriously affected Its impact is visible in India as well The Sensex and Nifty are falling impacting the stock market These issues should be seriously discussed and deliberated upon in the Parliament session It is not enough for a minister to simply make statements on such important matters JB Mather told IANSEchoing similar concerns CPIM MP John Brittas strongly criticised the governments stance on the crisis and accused it of remaining silent during a critical geopolitical momentWhat is the use of his giving a statement after humiliating the entire nation a country of 140 crore people when there is an unilateral aggression against an independent sovereign The silence of India has been termed as criminal negligence and bartering away the immense goodwill this nation had Brittas saidEarlier in the day Jaishankar informed the House that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia He emphasised that the developments were of particular concern for India because a large number of Indian citizens live and work across the Gulf regionAt the start of the session Leader of Opposition LoP Mallikarjun Kharge attempted to raise the issue of the deaths of Indian nationals during the ongoing conflict His remarks led to protests from Treasury Bench members prompting Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan to ask LoP Kharge to conclude his intervention and invite the External Affairs Minister to present the governments statementSpeaking amid loud sloganeering by Opposition members Jaishankar explained that the conflict began after USIsraeli strikes on Iran which reportedly caused extensive damage and the deaths of several senior leaders of the Islamic regime He noted that tensions had since escalated and spread across multiple countries in the regionOur government had issued a statement on February 20 expressing deep concerns and urging all sides to exercise restraint avoid escalation and prioritise the safety of civilians We continue to believe that dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to deescalate the tensions Jaishankar saidIt is also important that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all the states in the region be respected he addedThe minister also informed the House that the Cabinet Committee on Security chaired by Prime Minister Modi had reviewed the situation and taken note of the challenges faced by Indians living in the region as well as those travelling through itIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/not-enough-to-just-make-statements-oppn-questions-govt-after-eams-remarks-on-west-asia-crisis-664482.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/opposition-mps-protest-in-parliament-complex-seek-discussion-on-gulf-crisis-664484.html New Delhi March 9 IANS Opposition MPs led by Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi staged a protest in the Parliament complex on Monday accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of maintaining complete silence on the ongoing Gulf conflict and its potential impact on Indias economy and citizens abroadnbspSharing details of the protest on X Congress MP and General Secretary K C Venugopal said that MPs from the INDIA bloc demonstrated against what they described as the Prime Ministers lack of response to the escalating crisis in the Gulf regionOrdinary Indians will suffer due to surging energy costs already seen with the hike in LPG cylinder rates and those in the Gulf are totally stranded in a war zone India badly needs leadership to give a clear stand against this warmongering and to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our citizens he wroteAddressing reporters Venugopal said the opposition was firmly demanding a discussion in Parliament on the issue warning that India could face serious consequences from the evolving situation We are demanding a discussion because India is going to be affected in a very big way An energy crisis is happening everywhere Fuel prices are rising day by day and many people are already in distress The government has to come forward for a discussion he saidCongress leader Shashi Tharoor also called for a comprehensive debate in Parliament citing concerns over energy security and rising fuel prices Its a very important issue where the country is deeply affected Our energy security is at peril Oil has gone above 100 a barrel this morning Gas supply from Qatar has stopped due to force majeure and our factories are not receiving gas from that side right now he saidTharoor added that India may try to source supplies from other regions but the situation is already affecting domestic prices LPG prices have gone up by Rs 60 just two days ago and petrol is also likely to become more expensive This is going to be a real problem for our country We need a responsible and proactive approach from the government he saidCongress MP Manickam Tagore accused the government of remaining silent despite the gravity of the situation The government is in a completely silent mode and unable to do anything The Prime Minister had visited Israel earlier and now when tensions are escalating the government is not saying anything he saidSamajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav said the opposition traditionally has the right to seek clarifications when statements are made in Parliament But this government is never ready to provide such clarifications so making or not making such statements holds no real significance he remarkedCongress Rajya Sabha member Rajani Patil also demanded that the government allow the Parliament to debate the crisis and address public concerns Considering the situation unfolding in West Asia and the difficulties arising from it we want the questions that are in the minds of people to be allowed to be asked But they just read a statement and leave that is not what we want she saidOpposition parties have been pressing the government for a detailed statement and discussion on the situation in West Asia warning that the conflict could significantly impact Indias energy security fuel prices and the safety of Indian citizens living in the Gulf regionIANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/opposition-mps-protest-in-parliament-complex-seek-discussion-on-gulf-crisis-664484.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/unnao-rape-case-sc-adjourns-hearing-on-cbi-plea-against-sengars-bail-allows-survivors-application-664496.html New Delhi March 9 IANS The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned the hearing on a plea filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI challenging the bail granted to expelled Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape casenbspDue to the nonavailability of Solicitor General SG Tushar Mehta a Bench of Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi deferred the hearing and said that the matter would be taken up after two weeksAt the same time the apex court allowed the impleadment application filed by the rape survivor observing that she has a right to be heard in the CBIs special leave petition SLPnbspHowever the CJIled Bench declined to entertain an intervention application filed by the survivors cousin seeking protection on the ground of threat to his life and liberty if Sengar were granted bailnbspObserving that the applicant ought to avail an independent remedy the Supreme Court remarked that the plea seeking protection could be pursued before the jurisdictional High CourtnbspAvail your independent remedy before the High Court for protection of life and liberty the bench said while disposing of the intervention application filed by the minor son of the brother of the father of the Unnao rape victimnbspDuring the brief hearing senior advocate N Hariharan appearing for Sengar urged the top court to list the matter for hearing at the earliest stating that the liberty granted to his client by the Delhi High Court had been curtailed following the Supreme Courts earlier interim ordernbspIn response the CJI said that a date for the final hearing would be fixed soonnbspThe CJI Surya Kantled Bench was hearing the CBIs plea challenging the December 2025 order of the Delhi High Court which had suspended Sengars life sentence and granted him conditional bail during the pendency of his appeal The bail order had triggered protests by the survivors family and womens rights activists who said it had shaken public faith and sent a wrong message on crimes against womennbspIn December last year the Supreme Court had stayed the operation of the Delhi High Courts order and clarified that Sengar would not be released pursuant to the impugned judgmentnbspIn December 2019 a trial court had convicted Sengar of kidnapping and raping a minor girl and sentenced him to imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life along with a fine of Rs 25 lakh The Supreme Court had earlier transferred all cases related to the incident from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi and directed that the trial be conducted on a daytoday basisnbspIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/politics/unnao-rape-case-sc-adjourns-hearing-on-cbi-plea-against-sengars-bail-allows-survivors-application-664496.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/meghalaya-cm-condemns-attack-on-two-northeastern-people-in-delhi-664498.html Shillong March 9 Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday expressed strong anger over the alleged assault on two people from the Northeast near the Saket District Court Complex in the national Capital calling the incident âsickeningâ and urging authorities to take stringent action In a post on social media platform X CM Sangma said repeated attacks on people from the Northeast in mainland India are deeply concerningâAngered by the repeated attacks on North East people in Mainland India The physical attack on two of our people from Manipur and Assam near Saket Court Delhi is sickening Racial bullying should not be accepted as the new normal and we must act against itâ the Chief Minister wrote urging authorities to take strict action against those responsibleAccording to reports the alleged incident occurred on Sunday evening near the court complex in the Malviya Nagar areaA young woman from Manipur and a transgender person from Assam were reportedly attacked by a group of men while walking in a park in the localityPreliminary accounts suggest that the group allegedly began passing racially offensive remarks at the victims When the woman objected to the comments the situation reportedly escalated into a confrontationThe victims alleged that the men then physically assaulted them punching them and hitting them with belts while hurling abusive slursSources indicated that the victims had also faced similar verbal harassment in the area on previous occasionsIn a statement the Delhi Police said a police team responded to information about an alleged assault near the court complexPolice said the woman from Manipur and her friend were walking in the park when some men passed remarks at them which led to an argument that escalated into an assaultThe injured woman was later taken to Safdarjung Hospital for medical examination and treatmentAuthorities said she is currently in stable condition with minor injuries Police officials said the matter is under investigation and assured that appropriate legal action will be taken against those involved IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/meghalaya-cm-condemns-attack-on-two-northeastern-people-in-delhi-664498.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-closely-monitoring-west-asia-conflict-safety-of-indians-key-concern-eam-jaishankar-in-rs-664503.html New Delhi March 9 External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar on Monday informed the Rajya Sabha that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia stressing that the conflict is of particular concern to India because of the large number of Indian citizens living and working in the Gulf region At the beginning of the session Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge attempted to raise the issue of the death of Indian nationals during the ongoing conflict in the regionHis remarks triggered protests from the Treasury benches following which Chairman CP Radhakrishnan asked Kharge to conclude his intervention and invited the External Affairs Minister to make his statement in the HouseDelivering his remarks in the House amid loud sloganeering by Opposition members EAM Jaishankar addressed the situation in West Asia and said the conflict had begun after USIsraeli strikes on Iran which led to widespread destruction and the deaths of several senior leaders of the Islamic regimeHe noted that the situation had since worsened and the tensions had spread across several countries in the regionâOur government had issued a statement on February 20 expressing deep concerns and urging all sides to exercise restraint avoid escalation and prioritise the safety of civilians We continue to believe that dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to deescalate the tensionsâ the External Affairs Minister saidâIt is also important that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all the states in the region be respectedâ he addedEAM Jaishankar told the House that the Cabinet Committee on Security chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had taken note of the conflict and the challenges faced by Indians residing in the region as well as those travelling through itHe said all ministers had been directed to take appropriate steps to address the issue and assist Indian citizens According to him the Prime Minister has been continuously reviewing developments related to the crisisâPM Modi spoke to the heads of state of the UAE Qatar Saudi Arabia Oman Jordan Israel and Bahrain We are urging all to ease tensionsâ he saidThe Minister emphasised that the conflict has serious implications for India because of the large Indian presence in the Gulf countriesâThis conflict is of particular concern to India There are almost 1 crore Indian citizens who live and work in the Gulf nations In Iran too there are a few thousand Indians who are there for study and employmentâ he saidEAM Jaishankar also highlighted the strategic and economic importance of the region for India noting that West Asia plays a crucial role in the countryâs energy security and tradeâThe region is key for energy security and includes many important suppliers of oil and gas The Gulf region is a major trading partner for India accounting for almost 200 billion annually The House is also aware that in the last decade there has been significant investment from the region into the Indian economy Therefore serious supply chain disruptions and the climate of instability that we perceive are seriousâ he addedHe also pointed out that the ongoing conflict has affected maritime shipping activities in the region where a significant number of Indian nationals are employed as crew membersâWe have sadly already lost two Indian mariners and one remains missing in such incidentsâ he saidThe External Affairs Minister further informed the House that the government had been closely assessing the situation in West Asia since the 12day conflict that took place in June 2025âWe noted the indications of growing tensions and cautioned the Indian community in Iran accordinglyâ he saidAccording to EAM Jaishankar the government had issued several advisories to Indian citizens in Iran as the situation worsenedHe said Indian authorities had warned citizens in January to avoid nonessential travel to Iran Residents already there were advised to register with the Indian Embassy and remain vigilant by monitoring updates issued through the embassyâs website and social media platformsThe Indian Embassy in Tehran later issued another advisory on February 14 urging Indian nationals to leave Iran through all available modes of transport he said adding that the embassy extended assistance to facilitate such departuresAnother advisory issued on February 23 repeated the same warning he addedThe Minister also stated that an evacuation process was initiated soon afterwards to ensure the safe return of Indian nationals including students studying in Iran as the situation in the region continued to deteriorateEven as EAM Jaishankar continued presenting his statement in the House Opposition members persisted with their sloganeering during the proceedings IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/pm-modi-closely-monitoring-west-asia-conflict-safety-of-indians-key-concern-eam-jaishankar-in-rs-664503.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/mtfp-flags-maha-challenge-of-funding-welfare-schemes-while-containing-debt-664504.html Mumbai March 9 Maharashtraâs Medium Term Fiscal Policy MTFP statement for 202627 presents a picture of a state trying to outpace a rising debt burden through aggressive infrastructure spending Although the headline figures suggest fiscal discipline the underlying numbers indicate mounting longterm pressures The document released after the state Budget shows that the stateâs discretionary fiscal space is shrinking rapidlyCombined spending on salaries of Rs 175951 crore pensions of Rs 92379 crore and interest payments of Rs 70055 crore now absorbs 5493 per cent of the stateâs total revenue receiptsIn effect for every Rs 100 the state earns more than Rs 55 is spent before funds can be directed to new schools hospitals or welfare programmesâThis high fixed cost base makes the stateâs budget extremely âinelasticâ It cannot easily absorb economic shocksâ the MTFP notedThe document also projects that Maharashtra is entering a new phase of rising debt with total liabilities expected to reach Rs 1102654 crore in 202627 The stateâs debt has more than doubled in eight years rising from Rs 407 lakh crore in 201819âThe only reason this isnât sounding alarm bells is the stateâs massive GSDP projected at Rs 51 lakh crore for 202526 The ratio sits at 2038 per cent which is safely below the 25 per cent FRBM ceiling giving the government a âtechnicalâ licence to continue borrowingâ it saidInterest payments are rising at roughly 11 to 12 per cent each year By 2027 the state is expected to pay about Rs 192 crore every day only in interestThe MTFP also projects a revenue deficit of Rs 40552 crore for 2026 to 2027âA revenue deficit means the state is borrowing money not just to build bridges which is capital expenditure but also to fund daytoday operations and subsidies which fall under revenue expenditure Flagship schemes like the Ladki Bahin Yojana Rs 36000 crore and the Namo Shetkari Yojana Rs 6000 crore are now semipermanent commitments To keep these running while staying within the 3 per cent fiscal deficit limit the state has been forced into âsilent cutsâ in other sectorsâ the document notedWhile the government denies reductions budget data indicate a Rs 27000 crore drop in spending on social welfare and nutrition compared with the revised estimates for 2025 to 2026 This points to a shift from broad social support programmes to targeted cash transfer schemesThe stateâs economic strategy relies heavily on the multiplier effect theory According to the MTFP infrastructure investments such as the Vadhavan Port project and the Thane Borivli link road are expected to generate three to three and a half times their value in economic activityThe document projects real Gross State Domestic Product growth of 79 per cent However advance estimates reveal a wide gap between intended investments of Rs 116 lakh crore and operational projects worth only Rs 27357 croreIf projects do not become operational quickly the state could be left with rising debt without the tax revenue from GST and stamp duty needed to service itFinance department sources said the projections assume strong nominal GSDP growth which could be vulnerable to global disruptions The early 2026 conflict in the Middle East has already affected Maharashtraâs onion and grape exportsIf revenue collections from GST and stamp duties fall short of projections the fiscal deficit could cross the 3 per cent thresholdExperts say the 202627 Budget represents a strategy of âgrowth through borrowingâ and sets out a roadmap for a âViksit Maharashtra 2047âHowever they caution that its success depends on how quickly infrastructure investments begin generating tax revenue to service the stateâs expanding Rs 11 lakh crore debtSanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjayjiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/mtfp-flags-maha-challenge-of-funding-welfare-schemes-while-containing-debt-664504.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-govt-says-no-restriction-on-media-imposed-in-vidhana-soudha-defends-earlier-order-664505.html Bengaluru March 9 The Karnataka government on Monday stated that it has not imposed any restrictions on the media in Vidhana Soudha The government also defended its earlier order in this regard which asked the media to take bytes and reactions only at the West Gate of Vidhana Soudha A statement in this regard was issued by KG Jagadeesha Secretary to Government Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms DPAR in response to a letter written by Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly R AshokaAshoka in his letter to the government dated February 23 had urged it to restore free entry for the media to cover news inside the premises of Vidhana SoudhaThe governmentâs statement said âFor those who have accreditation cards issued by the Information and Broadcasting Department there are no restrictions imposed by the government on covering any event workshop press conference or meeting held at Vidhana Soudha Media persons are already covering such events and there is no need to issue a separate order in this regardâThe government also maintained that it wanted to remind the Leader of the Opposition that entry of the media into the Legislatorsâ House had been restricted earlier and that the order was issued on February 18 2020It can be noted that in 2020 the BJP government led by former CM BS Yediyurappa was in power in KarnatakaIt further stated that the earlier letter issued by the DPAR asking media persons to take reactions at the portico near the West Gate of Vidhana Soudha in an organised manner was only to ensure securityThe statement is likely to stir controversy as the governmentâs order in this regard had earlier faced stiff oppositionIt can be recalled that the government in Karnataka had issued an order restricting the movement of media persons inside the State Legislature complex triggering sharp criticism from the Opposition parties and raising concerns over Press freedomThe DPAR directed that journalists conduct interviews with legislators and seek their reactions only at a designated location the portico near the West Gate of Vidhana SoudhaThe order also stated that the Chief Minister Deputy Chief Minister ministers and other dignitaries should not be followed within the premises for commentsIn a letter sent by the DPAR Secretary to the Director of the Information and Public Relations Department officials were asked to issue necessary instructions to ensure compliance by all media personsA copy of the communication was also marked to the Deputy Commissioner of Police incharge of Vidhana Soudha security The subject line of the letter referred to directions for the media to obtain reactions only at a stipulated pointThe government had defended the move as necessary for safety and securityCritics however argued that it curtails freedom of expression and limits access to elected representatives inside the legislative complex Some Opposition leaders had also alleged that the restrictions could hinder their ability to communicate freely with journalists on the premisesThe controversy comes days after reports emerged of the alleged theft of 300 grams of gold within Vidhana Soudha reportedly involving a DPAR staff member Critics claim the department is attempting to deflect attention from the incident by tightening media accessThe JDS and BJP accused the ruling Congress of being unsettled by journalists who ask questionsThe party alleged that limiting media movement inside Vidhana Soudha reflected insecurity within the government and questioned why ministers and MLAs would be wary of scrutinyJDS described the move as an attack on democratic values and Press freedom urging the Chief Minister to ensure transparency rather than suppress the media IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/karnataka-govt-says-no-restriction-on-media-imposed-in-vidhana-soudha-defends-earlier-order-664505.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/losing-grip-over-afghanistan-isi-plots-major-hit-on-chinese-investments-664507.html New Delhi March 9 Pakistanâs ISI has made several efforts to disrupt Chinese investments in Afghanistan as Islamabad feels that it is soon losing control India and Afghanistan have reset ties and the countryâs foreign minister recently visited New Delhi to signal the same This was a sour point for Pakistan as it felt that it had the Afghan Taliban under its control India and Afghanistan have agreed on several points including cooperation on trade and security The Taliban is no longer under the control of Pakistan and the regime has decided to act independently when it comes to foreign policyWhile Pakistan is at war with the Taliban it is also finding the increasing interest that the Chinese have been taking in Afghanistan to be an irritant Pakistan was not entirely happy when the Chinese insisted that Kabul would be part of the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor Project 20 CPEC Officials say that this is not the kind of decision that Pakistan wanted China to take but it was left with no choice since Islamabad is in doldrums when it comes to its economyThe ISI has set up special units to monitor the situation at the Wakhan Corridor which is a narrow strip in northeastern Afghanistan This corridor is of significant value for the Chinese as it opens the trading route to Afghanistan The Wakhan Corridor shares the border with China to the east It also shares the border with Pakistan to the South and Tajikistan to the northChina has been looking at this corridor for some time now as it could open up connectivity to Afghanistan Officials explain that the opening of this corridor would mean that both China and Afghanistan could indulge in tradePakistan watchers say that Pakistan is fast losing its grip over Afghanistan Diplomatic ties between the two countries have collapsed and there is a fullblown war that is underway Pakistan has been repeatedly spreading a false narrative that India has been backing the Taliban in the war India has also been falsely accused of fuelling the TehreekeTaliban Pakistan TTP and the Balochistan Liberation Army BLAPakistan has repeatedly claimed that China is an allweather ally However that perception is fast changing as the mistrust against Islamabad is growing in Beijing Pakistan opened up to the United States and even signed a minerals deal China however has not welcomed this development and even questioned Islamabad about its intentionsBeijing has been accusing Pakistan of not doing enough to safeguard its investments The CPEC project has often been hit as the people of Balochistan say that their resources are being looted but the people of the region fail to reap any benefit Insurgent groups in Balochistan have repeatedly hit Chinese investments and its nationals which has left Beijing seething with rageAnother official said that China has realised that Pakistan is not entirely trustworthy and hence there is a need to open up in Afghanistan The Taliban has been clear that it will welcome all investments which would benefit the nation However Afghanistan has stood firm that it will not accept any interference when it comes to its foreign policyThe fact that China has been opening up to Afghanistan has prompted the ISI to set up hit squads that would damage Beijingâs interests The focus is heavily on the Wakhan Corridor and the ISI has been plotting largescale strikes to ensure that this part of Afghanistan shuts down to China Any major move by the Chinese in Afghanistan would be viewed as a failure for Islamabad This only means that Pakistan would further lose its grip over AfghanistanThe Chinese have been planning various projects in the corridor and if they go through Pakistan would no longer be the main transit point for trade in the regionPakistan which has been cosying up to the Islamic State Khorasan Province ISKP will use the terrorists of this group to strike at the corridor The ISKP which has been backing Pakistan in its fight against the BLA and the TTP will agree to strike at the Wakhan Corridor at the behest of the ISI For the ISKP gaining control over Afghanistan is the key focus It has not been able to beat the Taliban and hence would agree to any proposal to hurt the regime in Afghanistan officials sayExperts say that the ISI wants to target Chinese interests and its nationals involved in projects to be undertaken at the Wakhan Corridor This would create insecurity and fear which would make the Chinese wary of investing in the region IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/losing-grip-over-afghanistan-isi-plots-major-hit-on-chinese-investments-664507.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/eam-jaishankar-says-67-000-nationals-returned-home-notes-gulf-nations-safety-assurance-for-indians-664508.html New Delhi March 9 External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar on Monday informed the Rajya Sabha that 67000 Indian nationals have returned to India from conflictaffected countries in West Asia as of March 8 as the government continues efforts to assist citizens amid the ongoing crisis in the region Making a statement in the Upper House on the evolving situation in West Asia EAM Jaishankar said the government had been facilitating the return of Indian citizens whenever there were brief openings in regional airspaceâWhenever there has been a partial opening of airspace we have approved and undertaken commercial flights including nonscheduled flights to enable the return of Indian citizens Our estimate as of yesterday is that 67000 of our nationals have done soâ the External Affairs Minister saidHis remarks came amid loud protests from Opposition members in the House who continued sloganeering and demanded a full discussion on the issue during the proceedingsEAM Jaishankar also informed the House that the Indian Embassy in Tehran has taken steps to assist Indian students and other nationals in Iran as the regional tensions escalatedâThe Indian Embassy has facilitated the relocation of several Indian students in Tehran to places outsideâ he saidHe further noted that Indians who were in Iran for business purposes had also been assisted in leaving the country by travelling to neighbouring Armenia before returning to IndiaâIndian nationals in Iran on business were facilitated to cross over to Armenia to return to India Our Embassy in Tehran remains fully operational and on high alert We are committed to supporting the Indian community at this timeâ the minister saidEAM Jaishankar told the House that the government had issued multiple advisories to Indian citizens as the security situation in Iran deterioratedHe also told the Rajya Sabha that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been regularly reviewing the developments related to the conflict and Indiaâs response to the crisisâPM Modi spoke to the heads of state of the UAE Qatar Saudi Arabia Oman Jordan Israel and Bahrain We are urging all to ease tensionsâ he saidHe added that India had received positive assurances from the leadership of these countries regarding the safety and welfare of the Indian community living thereâIn each case we received assurances that the wellbeing of the Indian community would be the priority of the host countries I have similarly been in close touch with my counterparts in these countries Insofar as the United States is concerned we have maintained regular contact through diplomatic channelsâ EAM Jaishankar said IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/eam-jaishankar-says-67-000-nationals-returned-home-notes-gulf-nations-safety-assurance-for-indians-664508.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/tehran-thanked-india-for-humane-gesture-eam-jaishankar-tells-rs-on-docking-of-iranian-warship-at-kochi-port-664512.html New Delhi March 9 External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar on Monday said that Iran had expressed its gratitude to India for what he described as a âhumane gestureâ after New Delhi allowed the Iranian warship IRIS Lavan to dock at Kochi port amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia Delivering his statement in the Rajya Sabha on the evolving situation in the West Asia conflict EAM Jaishankar said that maintaining highlevel communication with Iran has been challenging under the current circumstances though diplomatic engagement continues through available channelsâWhile attempts have been made contacts with Iran at the leadership level are obviously difficult at this time I have however spoken to Foreign Minister Araghchi on February 20 2026 and March 5 2026 We will continue these highlevel conversations in the coming daysâ the External Affairs Minister saidHe also referred to the Iranian naval vessel currently docked in Kochi and explained the circumstances under which India had granted permission for the ship to enter an Indian portThe development took place even as the sinking of the Iranian warship IRIS Dena was unfolding near Sri Lanka Around the same time another Iranian naval vessel had already approached India seeking assistance after encountering technical problems while operating in the regionAccording to the government the Iranian warship IRIS Lavan had reported a technical malfunction and requested urgent docking permission from Indian authorities After considering the request the Centre approved Tehranâs proposal on March 1 allowing the vessel to dock at Kochi port in KeralaâThe Iranian side had requested permission on February 20 2026 for three ships in the region to dock at our ports This was accorded on March 1 2026 IRIS Lavan actually docked on March 4 2026 in Kochi The crew is currently in Indian Naval facilities We believe this is the right thing to do The Iranian Foreign Minister has expressed his countrys thanks for this humane gestureâ EAM Jaishankar told the HouseDuring his statement the minister also addressed concerns related to Indiaâs energy security amid the ongoing instability in West Asia which remains a crucial supplier of oil and gas to IndiaThe EAM said that while managing the situation the government has kept the interests of Indian consumers as the âoverriding priorityâHe concluded his remarks by outlining three key principles that are guiding Indiaâs approach to the crisis in the regionâFirstly India is in favour of peace and urges the return to dialogue and diplomacy We advocate deescalation restraint and ensuring the safety of civiliansâ he saidâSecondly the wellbeing and security of the Indian community in the region are our priority We will continue to work with the governments of the region towards that endâ the minister addedâLastly our national interest including energy security and trade flows will always be paramountâ EAM Jaishankar said while concluding his statement in the Rajya SabhaSubsequently the Leader of the House JP Nadda criticised the Opposition for their conduct during EAM Jaishankarâs address He stated that their focus is not on the nation or the debate but on creating chaosTheir priority is never on the dialogue Their priority is on engaging in rowdiness he remarked He also highlighted similar occurrences from past Parliament sessions particularly the discussions on electoral reforms in December 2025 and the space program when the Opposition staged walkoutsHe mentioned that the Opposition also left during discussions on Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror incident as well as the Waqf BillNadda pointed out that the Opposition walked out while Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was responding to the debate on the Union Budget for 20262027âThey have no genuine interest in issues pertaining to national interests they show no concern for Atmanirbhar Bharat they care little about developing the nation their focus is solely on politicsâ he concluded IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/tehran-thanked-india-for-humane-gesture-eam-jaishankar-tells-rs-on-docking-of-iranian-warship-at-kochi-port-664512.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/politics/aiadmk-announces-march-12-protest-alleging-massive-corruption-in-madurai-corpn-664513.html Chennai March 9 The AIADMK has accused the ruling DMK of largescale corruption and administrative irregularities in the Madurai Corporation with AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami announcing a statewide protest on March 12 demanding action against those allegedly involved In a stronglyworded statement issued on Monday Palaniswami alleged that serious financial irregularities had surfaced within the civic administration of Madurai implicating several functionaries belonging to the DMKAccording to him the controversy had already led to the resignation of key office bearers including the Mayor zonal committee chairpersons and standing committee chairpersons affiliated with the ruling partyPalaniswami claimed that the resignations themselves indicated the gravity of the allegations and raised serious questions about governance and accountability within the municipal bodyHowever he alleged that despite these developments the Government of Tamil Nadu had failed to initiate any meaningful action against those responsibleThe AIADMK leader further accused the State government of attempting to suppress the issue rather than ensuring transparency and accountabilityHe claimed the lack of prompt investigation and disciplinary action suggested that the administration was trying to shield those allegedly involved in the irregularitiesCriticising the functioning of the Tamil Nadu Municipal Administration Department Palaniswami said the department had remained silent despite the seriousness of the allegationsHe argued that such inaction had eroded public trust in the local governance system and had left the people of Madurai without answersPalaniswami also linked the issue to broader concerns about civic administration in the city stating that residents were struggling with inadequate basic services even as allegations of corruption continued to emergeHe said the priority of the authorities should be to ensure transparent governance and to address the everyday needs of the public including essential civic infrastructure and servicesDemanding immediate intervention the AIADMK leader called on the State government to launch a thorough and impartial investigation into the alleged irregularities and take strict action against those found guilty irrespective of their political affiliationsTo highlight the issue and press for accountability Palaniswami announced that the AIADMK would organise a protest demonstration on March 12The party he said would mobilise cadres to condemn the alleged corruption in the Madurai Corporation and demand swift action from the governmentHe added that the protest would also seek to draw attention to what the AIADMK described as the State governmentâs failure to ensure transparency and effective governance in local bodies IANS https://dailyworld.in/politics/aiadmk-announces-march-12-protest-alleging-massive-corruption-in-madurai-corpn-664513.html Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:37:00 +0530