The Economic Times
Elections 2026National / The Economic Times
Suvendu Adhikari stated that the Criminal Investigations Department has begun investigating Mamata Banerjee's claims of a leg injury. He claimed that a medical report indicated no evidence of a fracture in her leg. Adhikari accused Banerjee of falsely blaming the people of Nandigram for an alleged attack during her campaign.
India is currently chairing the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, which highlights concerns about its democratic integrity. Recent reports indicate declines in judicial independence and the freedom of political parties in India. Investigations into opposition leaders ahead of the 2024 elections are raising significant concerns about political freedoms.
Rahul Gandhi introduced the 'Satyagraha' digital platform to consolidate information on various protests happening across India, including issues related to land, women's rights, and education. In a video message, he expressed solidarity with activists, encouraging them to share their struggles and emphasizing the importance of collective action against injustice.
Recent changes in chairpersonships of five parliamentary standing committees reflect a significant reshuffle. The Trinamool Congress lost leadership in two key panels as BJP members were appointed. Notably, Sudhanshu Trivedi replaced Dola Sen as chair of the Commerce Committee. Several opposition leaders retained their posts, including Shashi Tharoor, who heads the External Affairs Committee. The DMK maintained its chairmanships for two crucial committees in this reshuffle.
Michael Spence highlights the economic growth of India and China, noting India's potential growth trajectory. He emphasizes India's advancements in digital infrastructure, particularly in digital financial services like UPI. Spence discusses the significance of AI in economic development and its anticipated impact over the next decade. He warns of potential economic shocks due to rising debt levels and high market valuations.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the deportation of narco kingpin Navpreet Singh from Turkiye. Singh obtained Turkish citizenship under an assumed name while continuing his drug trafficking activities. Since 2019, India has repatriated a total of 288 fugitives to enhance national security. The Modi government emphasizes a comprehensive strategy combining global outreach and smart diplomacy.
Mumbai police registered an FIR against the Cockroach Janta Party for their protest at Shivaji Park. The protest demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over electoral roll irregularities. In Delhi, protesters continued to march towards Jantar Mantar for the same cause, despite police restrictions.
Yahoos Alibaba investment changed the companys financial story. In 2005, Yahoo paid $1 billion for a 40% stake in the Chinese e-commerce company. Ten years later, that holding was worth about $30 billion. Yahoo then dropped its plan to spin off the Alibaba stake after U.S. tax authorities refused to confirm tax-free treatment.
P K Mishra emphasized India's approach to economic resilience during the Kautilya Economic Conclave. He noted the importance of maintaining substantial stocks and diversifying procurement strategies. Mishra highlighted the growth in the number of countries from which India imports crude oil significantly.
Aman Sehrawat upgraded his Hangzhou bronze to Asian Games gold after beating reigning world champion Chong Song Han 10-7 in the mens 57kg final. Antim Panghal lost 1-9 to Japans Mei Miyooka, while Deepak Punia added bronze, taking Indias wrestling tally to six medals, including two gold.
Three years after a heartbreaking exit at the Budapest World Championships, Masai Russell returned to the same track and delivered a perfect ending. The Olympic champion won the 100m hurdles at the World Athletics Ultimate Championships in 12.22 seconds, sealing her 14th straight victory and completing an undefeated 2026.
India's Vice President CP Radhakrishnan emphasized the necessity for inclusive growth in the country's development journey. He highlighted that both economic and social resilience are critical for future progress. The vice president noted India's impressive GDP growth and its improved sovereign rating as indicators of economic strength.
Indias failure to win a tennis medal at the Asian Games for the first time in 40 years has exposed the sports shrinking presence at the highest level. Sumit Nagals quarterfinal exit capped a barren campaign, raising questions over player development, funding, professional pathways and Indias dwindling singles and doubles depth.
India defeated Pakistan by 19 runs to win the mens T20 cricket gold at the Asian Games in Japan, with Tilak Varmas unbeaten 51 and Abhishek Sharmas 61 setting up a 211/6 total. Hasan Nawazs 96 kept Pakistan in contention, but Indias bowling depth held firm to seal victory.
The resignation of BJP councilor R. Sreelekha from the Thiruvananthapuram city council poses a critical challenge to the party's majority, reducing the council's strength to 50. Following her discontent over not being nominated as Mayor, speculation surrounds Sreelekha's allegiance to the party. Currently, the BJP is making efforts to have her reconsider her resignation, hoping to maintain their council dominance amid the changing political landscape.
Post the 2025 assembly elections in Bihar, the relationship between the RJD and Congress is strained. The RJD's unilateral announcement of candidates for six MLC seats sparked conflict, prompting Congress to position its candidates for five seats, resulting in four direct electoral battles. The RJD argues that Congress's success hinges on its support, while Congress is determined to fortify its presence independently.
With the countdown to elections in Uttar Pradesh starting, numerous politicians are forging new partnerships to stay influential. Recently, Swami Prasad Maurya held talks with Rahul Gandhi aiming for possible cooperation, yet he emphasizes his party's independence. In another twist, ex-MLA Shyam Sundar Sharma shifts to Congress after a seat loss last year, while Maurya's daughter, Sanghmitra, remains loyal to the BJP, even without a ticket for 2024.
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deliberate over the Mecca Pact. Their talks centered on fostering robust bilateral strategic partnerships, amid Egypt's choice to refrain from joining the defense pact. Observers remark that the Mecca Pact's relevance is questionable due to a shared enemy's absence. Nonetheless, Egypt positions itself as a crucial stabilizing force within the region.
'All adult US citizens...':Trump reiterates $5,000 promise if Republicans win 2026 midterm elections
Mad Sandhu news: Mad Sandhu, a makeup artist and social media influencer, was shot dead in Punjab on Saturday. He sustained two gunshot wounds and died during treatment at Fortis Hospital. Police have begun an investigation into the incident and are gathering leads. An FIR has been registered after taking statements from the victim's family. The motive and identity of the attackers remain under investigation.
I don't take this bulls**t: Thom Tillis fiery private messages to Trump expose bitter rift
India has summoned the Charg d'Affaires of the Pakistan High Commission due to continued illegal cross-border infiltration. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted an incident involving individuals breaching the border despite warnings from the Border Security Force. India urged Pakistan to investigate these infiltration and drug-smuggling activities being facilitated by armed syndicates. The Indian government rejected Pakistan's accusations regarding the border incident and called for meas
Ukraine is set to enhance its attacks on Russian oil refineries in response to recent changes in military tactics. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy emphasized that civilian infrastructure would not be targeted during these operations. Ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensives have recaptured significant territory in the eastern Donbas region.
Nikki Kelly did not set out to build a jewellery company. After losing her corporate job at 38 weeks pregnant, she used $1,000 from family savings to start making personalised pieces at home. An Etsy store became her first shopfront, and a small garage operation slowly grew into Kellective by Nikki. It is now a 13 person business with $2.5 million in turnover.
Anupam Kher house tour: Sikander Kher provided a glimpse into the Mumbai home of his parents, Anupam and Kirron Kher. The residence features a blend of contemporary design and nostalgic family memorabilia throughout various rooms. A significant section is dedicated to displaying the couple's achievements in awards and personal artefacts collected over the years. A compact mandir is included, adding to the home's traditional feel.
The All-Assam Minority Students Union has endorsed BJP candidate Devasish Sharma for the Nagaon Lok Sabha seat. The by-election is scheduled for October 6, with counting to occur on October 9. AAMSU leader Ikbal Hussain emphasized development as the priority for the constituency. He criticized AIUDF president Badruddin Ajmal's ability to represent Nagaon's interests effectively. The BJP sees this poll as crucial for future electoral success in Assam.
India rejected Pakistan's remarks on Jammu and Kashmir at the UN General Assembly, accusing Islamabad's so-called civilian governments of serving at the Army's mercy. India also criticised Pakistan's alleged support for cross-border terrorism, cited its 2024 elections in Jammu and Kashmir and urged Islamabad to address its domestic and economic challenges.
During his visit to the United States, Piyush Goyal held meetings with executives from several major American companies. The discussions focused on expanding investment and manufacturing opportunities within India under the Make in India initiative. Goyal highlighted the rising potential of India's consumer market as a strong base for global brands.
'I'll be happy': Trump adds $3.2bn Alabama bridge to long list of things hed like named after him
India weather news: The IMD predicts widespread rain and thunderstorms in regions such as Kerala, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. Delhi and Uttar Pradesh are expected to remain dry over the weekend without significant weather activity. Rainfall is forecasted to return to parts of northwest India from October 5 to 7. Meanwhile, southern India may continue to experience thunderstorms and isolated heavy rainfall.
KL Rahul achieved the milestone of 10,000 international runs during the third ODI against West Indies. After a shaky start, he scored a remarkable 129 not out, leading India to a total of 351 runs. Rohit Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad both contributed half-centuries, stabilizing the innings after early wickets. India opted to bat first, winning the toss despite losing their openers cheaply.
The Trump administration is actively utilizing 13 taxpayer-funded, campaign-style ads to promote its policies. These advertisements showcase military accomplishments and various initiatives from the administration, with officials arguing they serve as public service announcements. The titles of the ads include God made Trump, The Country He Loves. However, lawmakers from both parties express concerns over the legality of this advertising approach, igniting discussions about potential misuse of g
When I saw my husbands records: Widow exposes how Hospitals deleted COVID patients' files
Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi stated that India cannot give a timeframe for Sheikh Hasina's extradition. Hasina has been living in India since she fled Bangladesh amid massive protests in 2024. The Bangladesh government has repeatedly requested her extradition, which India is examining through legal processes. Tensions between India and Bangladesh have increased since Hasina's interim administration was toppled.
President Donald Trump has announced one-time $90 payments for more than 20 million Medicare Part B enrollees. The White House says the money will come from the Medicare Improvement Fund, which has about $2 billion available. Most eligible recipients are expected to receive the payment in October, without filing a separate application.
Panchayati Raj elections in Rajasthan will be held in four phases, beginning with nominations on October 8. Voting for Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti members will take place on specific dates in October and November. The election process includes the election of Pradhan, Up-Pradhan, Zila Pramukh, and Up-Zila Pramukh later in November. A total of 3.17 lakh personnel will oversee elections at 45,384 polling stations.
A committee in Parliament is in the process of exploring the legal avenues for regulating cryptocurrency transactions and assets within India. They aim to identify technological strategies for tracking these digital assets responsibly. Highlighting the government's earlier stance on cryptocurrencies as unregulated and risky, recent notices under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act have been dispatched.
Russian attacks killed at least six people in Ukraine and damaged Kyiv's Northern Bridge, disrupting traffic for a third day, while Moscow confirmed it targeted the structure. Ukrainian strikes also caused casualties in Russia. Moldova's president warned that the war was increasingly spilling into her country after reported Russian airspace violations.
Chandigarh State Consumer Commission increased the compensation for a senior citizen after inadequate toilet facilities were provided. The complainant, aged 73, booked a retiring room expecting a Western toilet but found an Indian toilet. Following initial acknowledgment of the error, the refund was denied after the room was not used. Initially awarded only Rs 3,000, the compensation was raised to Rs 20,000 for mental anguish and litigation expenses.
Ukraine is evaluating four international proposals to resolve the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting India's comprehensive approach. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha noted India's newfound willingness to engage in the peace process. Other proposals include initiatives from Turkiye and Egypt for grain truce and a U.S. energy truce. Both Zelenskyy and Putin have acknowledged India's principled stance and Modi's diplomatic efforts.
A Gulfstream G100 medical evacuation aircraft vanished shortly after departing from Bermuda, carrying six individuals headed for Boston. The U.S. Coast Guard promptly launched a search operation following the moment contact with the plane was lost. Preliminary reports suggest the aircraft descended significantly before disappearing from radar, while authorities are still investigating if a patient was aboard.
IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh on Saturday praised Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery after the flydubai pilot was stabbed and seriously injured by his co-pilot during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Machchhar helped save the aircraft carrying 174 people, which made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
P Chidambaram has called for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's resignation due to ongoing controversies and internal dissent. He emphasizes that opposition protests will escalate until Kumar steps down. Allegations have been made regarding improper deletions and potential bias in the voter roll revisions process. The Election Commission asserts that all actions are conducted according to due process and are unanimously approved.
Arizona voters must register by October 5, 2026, to participate in the upcoming General Election. Early voting will commence on October 7, allowing voters to cast ballots before Election Day. All ballots must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day for them to be counted. No same-day registration option is available, making early preparation essential. Election Day is scheduled for November 3, 2026, with polling open from 6 a.m.
India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted strategic priorities to build resilience amid ongoing global economic uncertainty. She emphasized the importance of optimizing supply chains and fostering private sector investment for strengthening innovation. The minister noted that India's R&D expenditure is significantly lower compared to OECD countries, necessitating increased private participation. Sitharaman discussed the shocks faced in recent years and the importance of managing ec
Pakistan summoned Indias Charge dAffaires on Saturday to protest the killing of two people by BSF personnel near the Punjab border, calling them civilians and denying they were intruders. Indian officials said the two men crossed into Indian territory despite warnings and were shot after allegedly provoking troops.
Bengaluru news: A 31-year-old man returned home late to find his house ransacked and two intruders inside. The intruders attacked him with an iron rod, causing a deep head injury, before fleeing on a bike. They stole 20 grams of gold jewellery and 45 grams of silver ornaments. His family was away on a trip to Andhra Pradesh during the incident.
The baseline for tax planning in 2026 relies on shifting retirement contribution limits. The IRS adjusted these thresholds, altering the calculus for wage earners trying to suppress their taxable income. A traditional 401(k) or 403(b) now absorbs up to $24,500 in pre-tax earnings. Individual Retirement Accounts cap at $7,500.

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