34 C The Economic Times
Elections 2026Jammu & kashmir / The Economic Times
Following alarming post-election violence in West Bengal, which has tragically resulted in two fatalities and multiple instances of vandalism, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has directed the swift arrest of individuals linked to these crimes. In response, law enforcement is ramping up their efforts with heightened surveillance and patrolling of affected neighborhoods.
The BJPs sweeping Assam victory is being seen as both a consolidation of Hindutva politics and a weakening of traditional Assamese regionalist forces. Analysts say the party has successfully positioned itself as the protector of Assamese identity while also deepening Hindu consolidation, particularly after the 2023 delimitation exercise. The result sidelines regional outfits such as the AGP, Raijor Dal and Assam Jatiya Parishad, while further marginalising Bengali-speaking Muslims and weakening
The Iran war has led to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, the main transit route for Gulf energy supplies. While India has partly offset crude supply disruptions by sourcing oil from countries, including Russia, gas supplies have been curtailed to industrial users and LPG availability to commercial establishments, such as hotels and restaurants, has been reduced.