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Politics / The Economic Times

Bihar polls: Samrat Choudhary's affidavit leaves room for controversy over age, edu qualifications

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has declared assets exceeding Rs 10 crore. He is contesting elections from Tarapur. Choudhary faces allegations regarding his age and educational qualifications. He also has two criminal cases pending against him. His affidavit mentions his age as 56 years. He claims to have received an honorary D.Litt. and a 'PFC' from 'Kamaraj University'.

17 Oct 2025 10:15 am
Rahul Gandhi's father Rajiv Gandhi was agent of Swedish military company in 1970s: BJP MP Nishikant Dubey

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey shared a document alleging former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was an agent for a Swedish military company in the 1970s. Meanwhile, Congress leader Supriya Shrinate accused Dubey of disproportionate assets for his wife. Shrinate cited a Lokpal complaint claiming her assets grew significantly without a corresponding income rise.

17 Oct 2025 10:01 am
Resolution of almost all problems of Jammu and Kashmir lies in restoration of statehood: Omar Abdullah

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah calls for the restoration of statehood. He urges Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fulfill promises made in Parliament and the Supreme Court. Abdullah also announces the return of the biannual Darbar Move practice. He seeks support from opposition parties for Rajya Sabha elections.

17 Oct 2025 8:19 am
All ministers except Gujarat CM resign ahead of cabinet expansion

The political landscape in Gujarat is shifting dramatically as the entire cabinet, aside from the Chief Minister, has stepped down in a bold move by the BJP. With a new council of ministers scheduled to be sworn in this Friday, this cabinet reshuffle signals a decisive strategy to revitalize leadership across states governed by the party.

16 Oct 2025 11:45 pm
Maharashtra Congree opposes pact with UBT Sena over MNS outreach

In a strategic move ahead of the local elections, Maharashtra Congress has announced a rift with the Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray Sena. Concerns regarding an alliance with Raj Thackeray's MNS and its potential to alienate key voter demographics, especially among north Indians and Muslims, have led this decision.

16 Oct 2025 11:29 pm
PM Modi lauds Andhra govt, IT Minister Nara Lokesh for GST savings campaign

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the Andhra Pradesh government and IT Minister Nara Lokesh for their successful 'Super GST, Super Savings' campaign. The initiative effectively deepened youth understanding of GST reforms through innovative competitions. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu highlighted over 98,000 events held and pledged to continue them.

16 Oct 2025 11:06 pm
Had Modi been afraid, Trump wouldn't be publicly praising PM to get his attention: BJP slams Rahul Gandhi

In a recent turn of events, the BJP has taken a firm stance against Rahul Gandhi's remarks targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The ruling party contends that the Congress, rooted in a legacy of dynastic politics, struggles to embrace the 'India First' ethos.

16 Oct 2025 8:46 pm
BJP slams Tipra Motha Party for distorting Tripuras history ahead of TTAADC elections

The ruling BJP has criticized its ally, the Tipra Motha Party. BJP leaders accused TMP of distorting Tripura's history for electoral gain. They highlighted government welfare measures for tribals. BJP also condemned derogatory remarks made against the Chief Minister. Clashes between party workers have been reported. TMP demands a separate state for tribals.

16 Oct 2025 7:59 pm
Centre plans reviving HMT and VISL: Kumaraswamy

The Union government is planning to revive HMT and the Sir M. Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Plant (VISL). Discussions have been held, and a report on HMT's revival has been submitted. Technical collaboration possibilities are being explored with Japan, and a Detailed Project Report is in preparation.

16 Oct 2025 6:45 pm
All ministers except CM quit as Gujarat cabinet prepares for expansion

All 16 ministers in Gujarat have resigned. This paves the way for a cabinet expansion on Friday. Around 10 new ministers are expected to join. Nearly half of the current ministers may be replaced. This reshuffle aims to refresh the leadership team. The Gujarat cabinet has room for more ministers. This move prepares the government for upcoming political events.

16 Oct 2025 5:00 pm
Karnataka cabinet brings rule to prevent RSS activities on government school, college premises: Priyank Kharge

Karnataka government will enforce rules to prevent RSS activities on school and college grounds, reinstating a 2013 circular. This move aims to protect children from ideological influences, as stated by the Education Minister. Officials participating in RSS events and speaking against the government face action, including suspension, under civil service conduct rules mandating political neutrality.

16 Oct 2025 4:52 pm
TMP threatens to quit the BJP-led coalition govt if indigenous people not given their rights

Tipra Motha Party supremo Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma has threatened to withdraw from the BJP-led coalition government in Tripura if the rights of indigenous 'Tiprasa' people are not addressed. Debbarma emphasized the urgency of implementing the Tiprasa accord, stating the party is a mission for Greater Tipraland and will not wait indefinitely for their demands to be met.

16 Oct 2025 12:45 pm
'Yahan se tareef, wahan se tariffs': Jairam Ramesh takes swipe at PM Modi after Trump's Russia oil claim

Indian opposition leaders are questioning the government's foreign policy. US President Donald Trump stated Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would cease Russian oil purchases. Congress leaders allege the Indian government's decisions are announced by the US President. India's Ministry of External Affairs responded that energy sourcing is based on national interests and consumer protection.

16 Oct 2025 11:55 am
'Modi is frightened of Trump': Rahul Gandhi criticises PM over US President's remark on Russian oil buys

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and the party have criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi following Donald Trump's claim that India will stop purchasing oil from Russia. They allege Modi is frightened of Trump and has compromised India's honor and foreign policy for personal gain, ruining relations with Russia.

16 Oct 2025 9:40 am
Omar Abdullah completes a year in office but no statehood

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah marks one year in office with his key promise of statehood restoration still elusive. Despite election pledges for autonomy and special status, the National Conference government has achieved little politically, facing criticism for inaction. While highlighting welfare measures, the administration grapples with security challenges and economic setbacks impacting tourism and local livelihoods.

16 Oct 2025 8:38 am
Bhupati's surrender broke backbone of maoism: Fadnavis

In a groundbreaking announcement, Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis heralded the surrender of Maoist commander Sonu, also known as Bhupati, as a pivotal moment in the fight against insurgency. He declared that this event signifies a major blow to the Maoist infrastructure, expressing optimism that more leaders will follow suit in Chhattisgarh and Telangana.

15 Oct 2025 11:40 pm
Ahead of SIR, 3.48 cr names on EC portal in West Bengal

As West Bengal gears up for the crucial assembly elections in 2026, nearly 50% of the electorate has already had their details registered on the Election Commission's portal. This initiative coincides with a comprehensive booth-mapping initiative designed to enhance the electoral roll's efficiency.

15 Oct 2025 11:22 pm
Audit report highlighting Rs 200 cr 'scam' in Ayodhya triggers political slugfest in UP

An audit has unveiled purported financial misconduct totaling Rs 200 crore in the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation, fueling a significant political clash in Uttar Pradesh. The findings indicate potential misusage of government grants and questionable payments. In response, the Mayor has promised to tackle the criticisms head-on and seek justice for the implicated officials.

15 Oct 2025 9:27 pm
How will you do it with such a face?: Ravi Shankar Prasad slams RJD over reported move to field Shahabuddin's son

Prasad questioned the RJD's intentions and asked how they could promise to create a ew Bihar with such a candidate, alleging that this move was an attempt by the RJD to revive the politics of fear and crime in the state.

15 Oct 2025 9:05 pm
Rahul Gandhi to be in Guwahati on Oct 17 for paying tribute to Zubeen Garg

Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to arrive in Guwahati on October 17, where he will honor the memory of the beloved singer Zubeen Garg, who sadly passed away in Singapore on September 19.

15 Oct 2025 8:57 pm
Will PM Modi convince his 'good friend' in US to not withdraw from Paris Agreement: Jairam Ramesh

Carbon dioxide levels have skyrocketed to unprecedented heights. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh is sounding the alarm, directly challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He demands to know whether Modi will press his American counterpart to uphold the Paris Agreement commitments as the US withdrawal notice period winds down.

15 Oct 2025 8:56 pm
No demand for change in leadership, says Siddaramaiah

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah dismissed media speculation about a leadership change next month, calling it a media creation. He asserted that any decision on leadership rests with the party's High Command, which is currently focused on the Bihar elections. Siddaramaiah also indicated a potential cabinet reshuffle would occur after the Bihar polls conclude.

15 Oct 2025 7:46 pm
Ekjut NDA, Ekjut Bihar: PM Modi gives slogan for Bihar polls, encourages booth workers to reach out to families in their areas

In a spirited rally in Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged BJP volunteers to engage with every family, ensuring they are informed about the myriad of schemes offered by both the central and state governments.

15 Oct 2025 6:48 pm
I live in Karnataka, not Maharashtra, Biocon's Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw hits back at Congress leader

Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw defended her criticism of Bengaluru's infrastructure, stating her focus is on Karnataka where she resides. She responded to Congress leaders who questioned her silence on issues in Maharashtra and at the Centre, emphasizing her vested interest in her state's development. Shaw continues to advocate for improved roads and waste management in Bengaluru.

15 Oct 2025 6:25 pm
Biocon founder Shaw harming Bengalurus interests with her social media posts, says Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar criticized Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's social media posts on Bengaluru's infrastructure, stating they harmed the city's interests. Shaw defended her comments, asserting her right to speak as a Karnataka resident. Meanwhile, a BJP MP urged the government to heed Shaw's suggestions for improving Bengaluru's global competitiveness.

15 Oct 2025 6:21 pm
'Businessman' in Prashant Kishor has realised situation not in his favour: BJP

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla stated that Prashant Kishor has decided to withdraw from the Bihar polls, attributing it to a businessman's realization that the ground situation is unfavorable. Poonawalla suggested Kishor fears future business prospects if his party loses, calling the move a sign of weakness and lack of confidence.

15 Oct 2025 3:34 pm
Ladakh violence: Sonam Wangchuks wife to amend petition, challenge detention grounds in SC

The Supreme Court has postponed the hearing on Gitanjali J Angmo's plea challenging Sonam Wangchuk's detention. The court noted her intention to amend the petition. Wangchuk's elder brother and lawyer have met him in Jodhpur jail. The activist was detained under the National Security Act following violent protests in Ladakh. The government accused him of inciting the violence.

15 Oct 2025 1:04 pm
BJP names candidates for assembly bypolls in various states

The BJP has announced its candidates for upcoming by-elections across several states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Telangana. Voting for assembly bypolls in eight constituencies spanning multiple states is scheduled for November 11, with vote counting on November 14.

15 Oct 2025 12:27 pm
Gujarat cabinet set for expansion before Diwali

Gujarat's Bhupendra Patel-led cabinet is poised for a significant expansion before Diwali, with over half of current ministers likely to be dropped. The reshuffle aims to balance regional and caste equations, potentially including new faces like Arjun Modvadia and key leaders from Saurashtra, north, and south Gujarat.

15 Oct 2025 12:12 pm
Biren Singh defends Presidents Rule in Manipur

Former Manipur CM N. Biren Singh stated President's Rule, imposed 11 times previously, has improved the law and order situation since February. He emphasized that decisions on forming a popular government rest with the national BJP leadership, not the state, and assured that people's views are being conveyed to the central leadership.

15 Oct 2025 8:58 am
Himachal: Former MP Virender Kashyap's son booked for rape in Solan

Brijeshwar Kashyap, son of former BJP MP Virender Kashyap, faces rape and criminal intimidation charges. A woman accused him of sexual exploitation under a false marriage promise. Police registered a case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. This follows another high-profile arrest of Ram Kumar Bindal, brother of Himachal BJP President Rajiv Bindal, for alleged rape. Investigations are ongoing.

15 Oct 2025 8:19 am
Haryana Dalit IPS officer's 'suicide' heats up polifield

A Dalit IPS officer's alleged suicide in Haryana has put the ruling BJP in a difficult spot. The incident has intensified caste tensions and drawn attention from political leaders. Investigations are ongoing, with family members demanding action against officials named in the officer's note. The BJP is closely monitoring the situation, concerned about potential political fallout in poll-bound Bihar.

15 Oct 2025 12:29 am
EC expedites booth mapping process across West Bengal as part of SIR

West Bengal's CEO office is accelerating booth mapping for Special Intensive Revision, with data for Jhargram, West Midnapore, and Alipurduar now uploaded. Voters can check their details online. The process, based on the 2002 SIR benchmark, aims for completion before Diwali holidays, with District Magistrates urged to expedite efforts.

14 Oct 2025 11:38 pm
Excise case: Delhi HC grants 'last opportunity' to ED to argue plea against Arvind Kejriwal's bail

In a dramatic turn of events, the Delhi High Court has allowed the Enforcement Directorate one last opportunity to make its case against former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is currently free on bail due to a Supreme Court ruling. This marks the ED's ninth request for adjournment, a move that Kejriwal's legal counsel vehemently disputes.

14 Oct 2025 5:33 pm
Talks on which parties will contest which seats in Bihar in final stages: NDA leaders

Bihar's ruling NDA coalition leaders have confirmed seat allocation is settled. Discussions on specific constituencies are in the final stages. Despite some dissatisfaction, all parties stand united under Narendra Modi and Nitish Kumar. The NDA is ready to contest the upcoming assembly elections. The coalition aims to win and uphold Bihar's pride.

14 Oct 2025 3:47 pm
Kharge Jr gets threats after call for ban on RSS activities at public places

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge reported receiving threats and abuse after advocating a ban on RSS activities in government-owned public spaces. He stated his resolve to continue advocating for a society based on equality and compassion, despite the backlash. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has initiated a study into similar measures adopted by Tamil Nadu.

14 Oct 2025 3:42 pm
Haryana cop's death about all Dalits, PM and CM should act immediately: Rahul Gandhi

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited the family of Haryana IPS officer Y Puran Kumar. Kumar allegedly committed suicide on October 7. His family claims senior officers discriminated against him. They demand action against these officers. The family has refused postmortem and cremation until their demands are met. Several political leaders have visited the family.

14 Oct 2025 11:42 am
They are poisoning minds: Priyank Kharge on banning RSS activities in govt spaces in Karnataka

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has clarified his position on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh activities. He stated that RSS should not use government schools, colleges, or state-owned temples for its programmes. Kharge believes such activities should be confined to private spaces. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered a review of Tamil Nadu's actions regarding a similar ban on RSS in government areas.

14 Oct 2025 11:37 am
Bihar: JD(U) MLA sits on dharna in front of CM Nitish Kumar's residence

JD(U) MLA Gopal Mandal protested outside Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's residence. Mandal, seeking a party ticket for the upcoming assembly polls, sat on a dharna with supporters. He stated he would not leave until he received the party symbol from the CM. Security personnel prevented his entry to the premises.

14 Oct 2025 11:04 am
Centre implementing Shyama Prasad Mookerjee's policies, says RSS leader

An RSS ideologue asserts the current government follows Shyama Prasad Mookerjee's vision. He links Mookerjee's past statements to the Citizenship Amendment Act, emphasizing the need to protect Hindus. He also connects Mookerjee's ideas to the National Education Policy and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat program. The Kerala government has previously criticized the Raj Bhavan for hosting such lectures.

14 Oct 2025 9:45 am
Mumbai Civic Polls: Congress wants to go solo, waiting for UBT decision

Mumbai Congress leadership has urged the party high command to contest the upcoming civic elections solo, citing a desire to strengthen grassroots networks. While local leaders favor going it alone, the final decision rests with the Delhi leadership, which will consider the UBT Shiv Sena's stance and the broader goal of defeating the BJP.

14 Oct 2025 12:55 am
SC junks PIL seeking SIT probe into 'vote chori' allegations

The Supreme Court has refused to entertain a PIL seeking a Special Investigation Team probe into Rahul Gandhi's allegations of voter list anomalies. A division bench stated the petitioner could pursue their remedy elsewhere, not through a PIL in court. The bench also declined to direct the Election Commission of India (ECI) to decide the petitioner's representation.

14 Oct 2025 12:45 am
O J Janeesh appointed Youth Congress president in Kerela

O J Janeesh has been appointed as the new state president of the Kerala Youth Congress following Rahul Mamkootathil's resignation over sexual abuse allegations. Binu Chulliyil is the new working president, while Abin Varkey and KM Abhijith are national secretaries. Resentment brews within Congress factions over the appointments, with a complaint planned for the high command.

13 Oct 2025 10:52 pm
Congress tells Rijiju it won't join Parliament Joint Committee on bills to oust jailed CMs, ministers

The Congress, along with other opposition parties, will boycott the joint parliamentary committee examining three bills that propose removing government functionaries arrested for 30 consecutive days on serious charges. This decision was conveyed to Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, with parties like TMC, AAP, and Shiv Sena (UBT) already declaring their non-participation.

13 Oct 2025 10:51 pm
Trump repeats India-Pakistan claim for 51st time, PM Modi continues to be silent: Congress

Congress criticizes Prime Minister Modi for remaining silent while hailing US President Donald Trump's claims of forcing an abrupt halt to Operation Sindoor through tariff threats. Trump has repeatedly asserted his role in mediating an India-Pakistan ceasefire, a claim India attributes to DGMO talks.

13 Oct 2025 10:25 pm
Support of majority MLAs needed to become CM, says Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in a counter to his deputy

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asserted that becoming CM requires the majority support of MLAs, not just high command blessings, in response to Deputy CM DK Shivakumar's remarks. This statement aims to quell speculation about a leadership change, especially as Siddaramaiah approaches the 30-month mark of his term.

13 Oct 2025 8:31 pm
Manipur government justifies demolition of historic Rajbari in Shillong

Outrage erupted over the demolition of Manipur Rajbari in Shillong, with the Manipur government stating it was for comprehensive development of the heritage site. A project for Infrastructure Development of Heritage Complex, Rajbari, Shillong was approved, involving guest house construction and exhibition hall restoration.

13 Oct 2025 7:23 pm