The Economic Times

V D Satheesan, CM-designate, is exploring ways to lessen the burden on the public while former CM Pinarayi Vijayan strongly criticizes the central government's decision. He calls for an immediate withdrawal of the increase, stating it unfairly impacts citizens already facing rising costs and shortages.

Odisha will undertake a special intensive revision of electoral rolls starting May 30. This month-long exercise will continue until June 28. Booth-level officers will conduct door-to-door verification. The final electoral rolls will be published on September 6. This process aims to update voter details and ensure accuracy.

VCK leader D Ravikumar raises concerns over appointing breakaway AIADMK MLAs as ministers. He states that these MLAs defied their party whip and may face disqualification. While legally permissible until disqualification, such appointments question political morality. The VCK supports the TVK government. The issue highlights democratic ethics and public acceptance of defections.

Former NCP leader Anand Paranjpe has joined the Shiv Sena. Maharashtra minister Uday Samant revealed the move was to keep Paranjpe from joining opposition parties. The NCP, led by Sunetra Pawar, was informed about the induction. This was done to prevent any misunderstandings within the ruling Mahayuti alliance. Paranjpe previously left the Shiv Sena and later joined the NCP.

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary walked to his office with officials. This follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to reduce fuel consumption. The Chief Minister also ordered a smaller motorcade. His government plans more steps to save fuel. These include promoting work-from-home and a weekly 'no vehicle day'. Meetings will be held via video-conferencing.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar claims the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls targets SC, BC, and minority votes. He assures the Congress government will protect these voters' rights. The Election Commission announced the revision process across several states, including Karnataka.

Political tensions rise in Jammu and Kashmir as the BJP protests against liquor shops. The party criticizes the National Conference government, accusing it of promoting alcohol sales for revenue. BJP vows to physically shut down outlets if the administration does not change its policy.

West Bengal assembly proceedings will now be telecast live for the public to witness. Rathindra Bose has been elected unopposed as the new Speaker. The assembly will function according to constitutional principles. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of a strong opposition. This move aims to bring transparency to the legislative process.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge criticizes the central government over rising petrol and diesel prices. He labels the situation a 'Modi-government-made crisis' and blames leadership failure for the economic burden on citizens. Kharge highlights the cascading effect of inflation from fuel price increases. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju defends the hike, stating India's increases are lower than many other nations.

Rathindra Bose has been elected unopposed as the Speaker of the West Bengal assembly. He is the first legislator from North Bengal to hold this prestigious position. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari proposed his name. The BJP holds a strong majority in the assembly. This election marks a significant moment for the region.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for fuel saving and postponed gold purchases, calling it a gift amidst a ragic situation for the country. He argued that such measures are impractical for citizens.

DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin has clarified his controversial Sanatan Dharma remark. He stated his intention was to abolish the caste system that divides people. Stalin emphasised that this does not mean opposing temple visits but advocating for equal rights for all in society. He reiterated his stance against inequality and oppression, aligning with Dravidian movement principles.

Congress has strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The party stated that fuel prices have increased by Rs 3 per litre for petrol and diesel. CNG prices also saw a Rs 2 per litre hike. Congress linked this price rise to the completion of recent Assembly elections. They accused the Prime Minister of beginning extortion after the elections concluded.

Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging he prioritised Gautam Adani's release from US fraud charges over India-US trade deal. This follows reports that the US Justice Department is nearing the dropping of criminal fraud charges against Adani, who pledged a $10 billion US investment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a crucial Council of Ministers meeting on May 21. This mid-term review will focus on a renewed push for the government's reform agenda. Discussions will center on reducing compliance burdens and simplifying rules to improve ease of living. Ministries have submitted detailed reports on reforms undertaken since June 2024.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi. The meeting comes amid a delay in portfolio allocation after the Cabinet expansion. The Public Works Department is a key point of discussion. The central leadership wants a new minister to get the influential PWD department. Suspense over the distribution of departments continues.

Soon after the Congress named V D Satheesan as Kerala chief minister, signs of internal dissent surfaced with senior leader Ramesh Chennithala expressing displeasure to Rahul Gandhi over being overlooked despite his seniority and experience. Chennithala later skipped the Congress Legislature Party meeting where Satheesan was elected leader. Meanwhile, K C Venugopal backed the high commands decision, pledged full support to the new government and dismissed criticism over social media attacks by S

Councillors in Kargil have filed a no-confidence motion against the Chief Executive Councillor. This move follows a disagreement over a rotational power-sharing agreement. The current CEC reportedly refuses to step down as per the understanding. Supporters claim they have the necessary majority to prove their stance. The Lok Sabha MP from Ladakh also backs the motion.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma of Delhi High Court has started contempt proceedings against Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia. They face charges for making defamatory allegations on social media regarding the Delhi excise policy case. Following this, Justice Sharma has recused herself from hearing the main case.

The Suvendu Adhikari government has enforced strict regulations on animal slaughter in West Bengal, mandating compliance with the 1950 Act. The order prohibits public slaughter and requires a fitness certificate for animals, with violations punishable by jail time and fines. Additionally, authorities are cracking down on illegal cattle markets and unauthorized slaughterhouses.

During his recent outreach to the Kangchup Chingkhong community, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh addressed the pressing needs of Internally Displaced Persons. He provided assurances of their secure return, supplemented by financial support for college students thrust into turmoil. The Chief Minister's compassionate engagement included visiting the injured and committing to cover their medical expenses and housing repairs.

The Assam government has just released its latest lineup of ministers as Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma rolls out a cabinet expansion. Rameswar Teli will champion the Transformation and Development sectors along with Labour Welfare and the interests of the Tea Tribes and Adivasis.

The Delhi High Court will hear the excise-policy case involving Arvind Kejriwal before a different bench. This development follows remarks by Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma. AAP leaders have hailed the decision as a victory. Justice Sharma initiated criminal contempt proceedings against Kejriwal and others for social media posts.

Demonstrating leadership in environmental stewardship, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has streamlined her official convoy to just four vehicles, incorporating two electric cars in the lineup. This conscious decision resonates with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for sustainable fuel use.

Delhi High Court judge Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma has started criminal contempt proceedings against Aam Aadmi Party leaders. This action follows social media posts that allegedly vilified the judge. The judge stated that Arvind Kejriwal orchestrated a campaign against her. She clarified that the excise policy case will now be heard by another bench.

Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera is being questioned by Assam Police for a second day. The questioning relates to defamation cases filed by the wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Khera is cooperating with the investigation. The Supreme Court had previously granted him anticipatory bail. The Chief Minister made a remark about Assam sweets.

Pinarayi Vijayan has been elected as the CPI(M) legislature party leader in Thiruvananthapuram. This move positions the former Chief Minister to become the Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly. The LDF's recent election defeat, securing only 35 seats, contrasts sharply with the Congress-led UDF's victory of 102 seats, paving the way for a new government.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has clarified rules on religious symbols in educational institutions. Saffron shawls will not be permitted. However, practices like hijab, turbans, rudraksha beads, and sacred threads that are already in existence will continue to be allowed. This order applies to all educational levels up to Class 12. The Chief Minister also commented on the NEET examination controversy.

European Union envoys met with senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Salman Khurshid. The discussions focused on the strong EU-India strategic partnership. Evolving Indian and global geopolitical dynamics were also a key topic. This meeting is part of the EU's engagement with Indian political parties.

The Bar Council of India has asked the West Bengal Bar Council for a report. This report concerns Mamata Banerjee's lawyer enrolment and practice status. She appeared in court recently in lawyer's attire. The Council needs details on her enrolment and practice during and after her chief minister tenure.

The Election Commission of India will conduct a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Maharashtra. This exercise will involve Booth Level Officers visiting nearly 9.86 crore voters' homes for verification. Political parties will assist to ensure accuracy. The process includes training, house-to-house verification, and publication of draft and final electoral rolls. This aims to update voter lists effectively.

Jyoti Rautela, Uttarakhand Women Congress president, and associates face charges. They threatened self-immolation and obstructed officials during a nursing recruitment protest. The group climbed a water tank, causing security concerns. Rautela allegedly poured petrol on herself. Protesters also blocked a main road. The administration sent a proposal to the government, after which the group descended.

The Delhi High Court has asked the Centre and Delhi government for their response. This follows a petition by the Indian National Congress. The party seeks execution of a sale deed for its former headquarters at 7, Jantar Mantar Road. The Congress has been in possession of the property for decades. They paid sale consideration in 1959.

The BJP has criticized the Congress's selection of V D Satheesan as the next Kerala chief minister. Party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla stated the decision was imposed from Delhi, indicating a remote-controlled government. He alleged internal family disputes influenced the choice, with Priyanka Gandhi opposing Rahul Gandhi's preferred candidate.

Former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee appeared at the Calcutta High Court to make submissions regarding post-poll violence. Senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee highlighted widespread hooliganism and targeting of TMC workers. Petitioner Bikash Bhattacharya drew attention to the demolition of Muslim shopkeepers' makeshift stalls in Kolkata's Hog Market area.

The BJP has turned the spotlight on Rahul Gandhi's extensive global travels, calling for transparency over the sources of funding for these trips. Party representative Sambit Patra alleged that Gandhi has taken 54 foreign trips, accumulating expenses of Rs 60 crore in a span of 22 years, which he claims does not align with Gandhis reported income.

Two online content creators have been arrested in Dinhata, West Bengal. They allegedly posted an offensive video targeting Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Police apprehended the duo on Wednesday after receiving complaints about derogatory language. The viral video was posted on their social media platform. Investigations are ongoing.

AIADMK factions met Thursday following cross-voting during the TVK government's floor test. Edappadi K Palaniswami's group and a rival faction led by C Ve Shanmugam and S P Velumani held discussions. Tensions simmered as the party headquarters was heavily guarded. Rebel leaders considered legal options and demanded a general council meeting.

NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar alleged Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, and 22 NCP MLAs will contest elections on BJP tickets. He also raised concerns about drug sales and extortion in Baramati. An NCP spokesperson denied these claims, stating the party is united under Sunetra Pawar's leadership.

Former CM M K Stalin confidently declared that the DMK-led coalition remains robust following the elections, citing 1.54 crore votes as a testament to the people's faith. Allies reaffirmed their dedication to the DMK's vision, promising to relentlessly advocate for public welfare and the rights of the state. Stalin expressed heartfelt appreciation for their unwavering support and collaboration.

Senior Congress leader Thiruvanchoor Radhakrishnan lauded the party's High Command for its transparent selection process for Kerala's next Chief Minister. He stated Rahul Gandhi was directly involved. Radhakrishnan expressed happiness with the democratic procedure. He affirmed his support for the High Command's final decision, emphasizing his duty as a party member.

West Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul pledged women's freedom to move anytime, with priority given to their police complaints. She announced CCTV monitoring in civic bodies for transparency and vowed to stop illegal toll plazas, sand extraction, and coal mining. The government will also streamline the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme and address infrastructure issues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins a five-nation tour tomorrow. The visit aims to strengthen India's ties with the UAE and four European nations. Discussions will focus on energy, defense, and technology. The tour includes the UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay has reversed his decision to appoint his astrologer, Rickey Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, as Officer on Special Duty. The appointment faced strong criticism from opposition parties and allies. Vettrivel, also a spokesperson for the Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam, was a close aide during the election campaign.

The Congress party will announce its Kerala chief minister on Thursday. This decision follows a meeting between party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi. The announcement comes amid internal discussions and pressure from allies. A poster campaign in Wayanad has added to the political maneuvering. The party is navigating differing opinions on the top post.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay secured a trust vote on Wednesday. His government received 144 votes in favour. The opposition DMK staged a walkout, criticising the TVK government's functioning. Udhayanidhi Stalin questioned the TVK's majority and alleged outside support. He also raised concerns about recent political shifts involving the AIADMK.

Sambhaji Nagar civic administration demolished properties belonging to AIMIM corporator Mateen Patel. The action followed accusations that Patel hid TCS staffer Nida Khan. Khan faces charges related to illegal conversion. The AIMIM party has condemned the demolition as unlawful. Former MP Imitiaz Jaleel urged supporters not to resist, promising a grander reconstruction.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma believes the NDA's success in Eastern India signifies a revival of ancient civilizations. He states that Anga, Banga, Kalinga, and Kamrupa regions will now drive India's growth. Sarma emphasizes a unified development approach under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming for all-round progress and increased contribution to the national GDP.

The AIADMK party faced a significant split during a crucial trust vote. While leader Edappadi K Palaniswami declared opposition, a rebel faction led by SP Velumani supported the new government. This division saw a majority of AIADMK MLAs voting in favor of the government, helping it secure the trust vote.

The new Tamil Nadu government will work with the Centre for the state's progress. However, it will oppose the BJP-led central government on matters like delimitation. Minister KG Arunraj emphasized cooperative federalism and state rights. The party is rooted in Dravidian ideology, rationalism, and social justice. The government prioritizes law and order, drug menace, women's safety, and attracting investments.