The Economic Times

Tariq Hameed Karra, the J&K Congress chief, raised eyebrows over the National Conference's full rendition of Vande Mataram, highlighting the complex history and significance of the anthem in India's national context. In response, National Conference MLA Tanvir Sadiq urged Karra to offer guidance to Congress chief ministers, emphasizing that playing the complete version is mandated by law, mentioning that fellow non-BJP states also uphold this practice.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is focusing on youth and women through various government initiatives. Anganwadi workers will see increased honorariums starting from September 2026. The government is also providing scooters to graduating girls and appointment letters to one lakh young candidates. Mass marriages and self-help groups are being promoted to empower rural families. 'Project Praveen' aims to train over 3,000 students in employment-oriented sectors.

Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi raised concerns over the poor condition of PMGSY roads in his Raebareli constituency during a DISHA meeting, displaying photographs of pothole-riddled stretches and seeking details of construction agencies. UP minister Dinesh Pratap Singh criticised Gandhis approach, alleging he was more focused on finding faults than reviewing implementation.

Sachin Pilot highlighted the AAP government's administrative failures and mishandling of Punjab. He accused the ruling party of failing to check radical elements' revival attempts. Pilot questioned AAP's credentials to fight the BJP, noting defections. Punjab Congress leaders welcomed Pilot's appointment and held discussions with him. The Congress aims to re-industrialize Punjab and restore its past glory.

Manoj Jarange Patil, a prominent Maratha leader, accused Shiv Sena ministers of orchestrating riots and conspiracies against their community. He warned that he would mobilize thousands of Marathas to Mumbai if the government failed to issue caste certificates. In response, Shiv Sena minister Bharat Gogawale vowed to address Patil's accusations.

Prithviraj Chavan underscored that naming Rahul Gandhi as the opposition's prime ministerial candidate is premature. He highlighted the necessity of unifying regional parties to prevent vote fragmentation. Chavan is optimistic about the DMK rejoining the INDIA bloc and stressed the importance of bolstering the organizational strength of Congress while engaging with the youth.

The Supreme Court stated all are treated equally in a defamation case hearing. Rahul Gandhi's plea challenging a High Court order was discussed. The court had previously stayed proceedings in the Lucknow defamation complaint. An application for early hearing was requested by the complainant's lawyer. The bench advised following procedure for filing such applications.

P Chidambaram embraces the label 'Dimagi Naxal' in response to Prime Minister Modi's remarks, considering it a badge of honor. He brushes off the 'Naraaz Fufa' comment as trivial and critiques the Prime Minister's creative terminology. Modi's call to root out those with a Naxal ideology and his reference to dissenters as 'Naraaz Fufa' reflect the charged political climate and the vibrant discourse on social media.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari led a procession in south Kolkata on Wednesday. He asserted that those raising 'Kashmir wants freedom' slogans would be uprooted. The 'Gerua Samman Yatra' began at Golpark and concluded near Jadavpur University. Monks and seers joined the procession, chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' and carrying saffron flags. This march aimed to protect the dignity of the saffron colour and its associated values.

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)-led ruling alliance has been named the Secular Social Justice Victory Alliance after a coordination meeting chaired by party founder and Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay in Chennai. Congress, VCK, MDMK and IUML leaders attended the meeting, while CPI and CPI(M) stayed away.

Manoj Jarange, a leader of the Maratha quota agitation, is resolutely continuing his protest for the twelfth consecutive day. He publicly criticizes Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil. Jarange threatens to shift the protest to Mumbai if his demands are not met by September 12, claiming that the government is merely offering empty promises and engaging in conspiracy.

Assam and Meghalaya Chief Ministers met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. They sought a renewed push for Externally Aided Projects in their states. The discussion focused on increasing capital expenditure and investment channels. This aims to boost physical and social infrastructure development in the Northeast. The Finance Minister responded positively and assured support for the agenda.

Tensions rise within Jammu and Kashmir's ruling alliance over Vande Mataram. The National Conference stated playing the full song is a statutory obligation. Congress publicly disapproved, citing pluralist ethos and historical resolutions. The National Conference defended its stance by referencing other Congress-ruled states. Both parties are exchanging views on national symbols and diversity.

EVM glitches disrupted polling at several places in Rajasthan on Wednesday. Voters lined up to elect councillors in the first phase of urban local body elections. 50.38% turnout was recorded till 1 pm by officials. Complaints of alleged fake voting also emerged from various districts. Polling began at 7 am and will continue until 6 pm.

BJP received nearly Rs 1,473 crore at its central headquarters during recent state elections. This figure is more than seven times the Rs 207 crore reported by the Congress. The BJP's closing balance rose by Rs 904.6 crore during the poll period. Conversely, the Congress's finances saw a decline of Rs 65.86 crore. BJP spent Rs 159.7 crore in Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry.

Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot stated that many Jan Dhan Yojana accounts remain inactive. He alleged that flawed government policies are increasing poverty across the nation. Gehlot pointed to 5.72 crore accounts holding no money as evidence. He mentioned that the gap between the rich and poor is widening significantly. Gehlot urged the central government to address this growing inequality.

Union minister Ramdas Athawale stated opposing reservation is unconstitutional and against the Constitution. He asserted that reservation will continue until casteism is eliminated from society. The minister highlighted government achievements and welfare schemes for various sections of people. He also mentioned the acceptance of a caste census demand by the Centre. Central investments in infrastructure will boost Chhattisgarh's connectivity and industrial activity.

The West Bengal government seeks custodial interrogation of Sumit Roy in a land grab case. Huge cash deposits were made by Roy into a bank account, the state informed the court. Roy has been evasive during the ongoing investigation, according to the Solicitor General. The Supreme Court directed the probe agency to produce relevant bank transaction records.

Sri Lanka's Opposition Leader expressed gratitude for India's steadfast assistance during challenging times, characterizing New Delhi as a key and cherished partner. Constructive discussions with India's Defence Minister were highlighted as progressive steps forward. Indias prompt response to Sri Lanka's requests showcases their mutual commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with a focus on respect for sovereignty and national independence.

Union minister Ramdas Athawale opposed calls to bar Muslims from garba events. He stated India is governed by the Constitution, ensuring equal rights for all religions. Athawale believes people of different faiths should participate in each other's festivals. He cited Ajmer Sharif Dargah as an example of interfaith harmony. Such exclusionary stands are against the Constitution, he asserted.

YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will begin his statewide Padayatra in September or October 2027. YSR Congress Party demands the Education Minister's immediate resignation. They also seek an impartial CBI inquiry into alleged DSC 2025 recruitment irregularities. Party leaders cited the use of fake certificates and alleged job sales. The coalition government is accused of silencing critics and shielding officials.

The Congress has criticized the government's approach to the caste census, labeling the use of open-ended questions instead of a drop-down list as a very serious flaw. The party alleges this method could lead to the failure of the entire process, suggesting Prime Minister Modi intends for it to falter.

Twenty-two BRS legislators faced suspension from the Telangana Assembly for disrupting House proceedings. These members raised slogans and entered the well of the House during the session. The Speaker announced the suspension after a motion was moved by the Legislative Affairs Minister. BRS Working President K T Rama Rao was among the suspended members. The suspension will remain for the remainder of the monsoon session.

The BJP will launch a month-long campaign starting September 17. This initiative marks Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday and public service. The campaign will highlight government development and welfare initiatives. It aims to showcase Modi's political journey and dedication to service. The party intends to convey Modi's public service message to every citizen.

Central agencies are being used to threaten opposition leaders, according to Karnataka Congress president B K Hariprasad. The Enforcement Directorate searched premises linked to state minister Satish Jarkiholi and his daughter. Hariprasad questioned the targeting of Jarkiholi and the lack of raids on his BJP-affiliated brothers. The Supreme Court has previously reprimanded the Enforcement Directorate for its actions. Further details regarding the investigation are still awaited by officials.

Rahul Gandhi has called for justice in the case of Chongtham Vikram Singh, a talented Manipuri musician who lost his life after being assaulted in Delhi over noise complaints. Police have arrested seven adults and a juvenile linked to this shocking incident. Consequently, protests erupted in both Manipur and Delhi.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay chairs a key alliance meeting today. Discussions will focus on formalizing the ruling coalition's structure and common minimum program. Key allies like Congress and VCK confirmed participation in the important meet. However, CPI(M) and CPI chose to skip the meeting, maintaining issue-based support. Tensions also arise from differing views on national leadership for upcoming elections.

Raghav Chadha denied Aam Aadmi Party's allegations regarding his voter registration. He stated that all Election Commission of India guidelines were followed. The Election Commission clarified the standard procedures for electoral roll modifications. AAP questioned how Chadha's name appeared after a draft roll was published. This situation raises questions about the transparency of the electoral process.

A Congress leader filed a police complaint against Dhirendra Shastri for his remarks. Shastri's comments on Bengali identity and food practices have caused controversy. He questioned the consumption of non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja celebrations. West Bengal BJP leaders and ministers stated meat and fish are part of Bengali culture. The Congress leader demanded an apology and police action against Shastri.

Rajasthan witnessed the launch of its urban local body elections on Wednesday, spanning 162 civic bodies. More than 20,000 candidates are contesting for the 5,393 available councillor posts in this key first phase. Voting commenced at 7 am and progresses until 6 pm today. Yet, technical issues with electronic voting machines led to delays and lengthy lines in certain areas.

Controversy erupted in West Bengal over remarks by Bageshwar Dham priest Dhirendra Shastri, who allegedly called Bengalis pakhandis over non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja. Congress leaders filed police complaints seeking action, while BJP leaders defended Bengals tradition of eating fish and meat, particularly goat meat, during the festival.

PM Modi has launched development projects worth more than Rs 35,000 crore, highlighting the successful completion of the 2,800-km Dedicated Freight Corridor project. He also discussed reforms under the National Education Policy aimed at enhancing the skills of citizens. During the inauguration of a new BJP office in Navsari, Modi praised the contributions of local people while also taking an indirect swipe at opposition leaders over the spread of misinformation.

Rahul Gandhis flight to Lucknow experienced a go-around due to weather conditions. The Air India flight landed safely after the initial approach was aborted. He was welcomed by party workers and leaders upon his arrival at the airport. Gandhi then travelled by road to his parliamentary constituency, Rae Bareli, where he will meet party workers and review development works during his visit.

Former bureaucrat Devasish Sharma joined the BJP in Assam days after taking voluntary retirement from government service. His entry comes ahead of the October 6 Nagaon Lok Sabha by-election, with speculation that the BJP could field him. The seat fell vacant after Congress MP Pradyut Bordoloi resigned and contested Assembly polls.

BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia has filed a Rs 2 crore defamation suit in the Delhi High Court against the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and its leaders Abhijeet Dipke, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, according to a court filing posted by Bhatia on X. The case is scheduled for hearing Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated key sections of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor. He criticized opposition leaders for manufacturing grievances and spreading lies about national progress. The new freight corridor will significantly improve India's trade and commercial activities. Modi highlighted his administration's rapid infrastructure development compared to previous governments. He also inaugurated the BJP's new office in Navsari, emphasizing public service.

West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh stated non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja is not controversial. He referenced Bageshwar Baba's appeal for vegetarianism, noting saints advocate for health. Ghosh defended Bengal's tradition of consuming goat meat as prasad. He criticized past governments for dictating people's food choices. The minister also questioned government funding for community pujas.

Uttar Pradesh has seen a significant shift towards lawfulness since 2017, prioritizing safety and stability. Committed to fostering an integrated textile value chain, the state has attracted Rs 50 lakh crore in investment over nearly a decade. This progress has resulted in job opportunities for over 65 lakh youth, bolstered by a strengthened MSME sector and new textile projects initiated by the government.

The Bombay High Court dismissed Rahul Gandhi's petition challenging a defamation summons. This decision upheld a lower court's order regarding his remarks against Prime Minister Modi. The court found no illegality in the magistrate's initial decision to proceed with the case. However, Gandhi received a six-week reprieve to file an appeal with the Supreme Court.

By-elections in Tamil Nadu will test Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's new government. The TVK government faces coalition friction and aggressive opposition in these crucial polls. Securing both seats is vital for the TVK to consolidate its legislative strength. The Election Commission has announced polling for Madurantakam and Dharapuram constituencies.

Valmiki community members in Haldwani allege the complainant against Rahul Gandhi is Amit Kumar. They claim he falsely uses their community name for political gain. The community has submitted a complaint urging an impartial investigation into the matter. Police have registered an FIR against Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on a ritual. Further action will be taken based on the investigation's findings.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam legislators protested Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay's remarks on MISA. The Speaker ordered marshals to remove the protesting DMK members from the Assembly. DMK MLA EV Velu objected to reading vigilance cases under investigation. The Speaker rejected the demand to expunge the Chief Minister's MISA remarks. DMK Whip EV Velu criticized the Speaker's actions as undemocratic.

BRS MLC Tata Madhu was arrested by Saifabad Police for alleged derogatory remarks. The case involves accusations of insulting Telangana Assembly Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar. Police registered the complaint under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and SC/ST Act. The alleged incident occurred during an Assembly session in the presence of media and staff. Tata Madhu denied insulting the Speaker, stating comments were directed at police.

The ED conducted searches at seven locations across Kolkata, Delhi, and Ranchi on Monday. These searches are part of a money laundering probe involving Akhbar-E-Mashriq Pvt Ltd. The investigation also includes Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Mohd Nadimul Haque. Allegations involve promoting communal disharmony and illegal financial transactions. The probe was initiated based on an FIR filed by Bidhannagar Police.

INDIA bloc ally MA Baby stated no decision exists on a 2029 prime ministerial candidate. He called Congress leaders' projection of Rahul Gandhi premature and unwarranted. The focus remains on strengthening the alliance to defeat the Modi government. Past opposition alliances decided prime ministerial posts after elections concluded. Other allied parties may also stake claims for the prime ministership.

Students in Pune protested demanding MPSC chairman and secretary resignations after a paper leak. Maratha activist Manoj Jarange Patil continues his fast seeking caste certificates for reservation benefits. Thousands of students marched towards the Pune District Collectorate with opposition support. The government faces widespread discontent from various protesting communities. Patil plans a larger agitation in Mumbai after September twelfth.

Congress leaders demonstrated in Dehradun, demanding an FIR for a recent ritual. Over thirty SC/ST MPs met in Delhi to seek a meeting with the President. They will submit a memorandum against the 'purification' act and demand an FIR. Congress leaders called the ritual an insult to the Constitution and untouchability. They believe public anger will lead to the BJP government's ouster.

Thirty-two SC-ST Congress MPs will submit a memorandum to President Murmu. They are protesting a purification ceremony held in Haldwani after a rally. This incident is seen as an assault on constitutional values and dignity. The MPs plan to form a parliamentary forum to address such issues. They will meet the President on Tuesday to seek intervention and action.