The Economic Times

Speculation over Devendra Fadnavis' political future has ignited a war of words between supporters of Maharashtra's Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut's claims of Fadnavis moving to Delhi were amplified by Bachchu Kadu, who suggested Eknath Shinde should become CM if Fadnavis is shifted. The BJP dismissed these remarks as childish, emphasizing the alliance's current stability.

A parliamentary panel suggests suspending ministers instead of removing them from office. This change ensures innocent individuals are not permanently deprived of their positions. The committee also proposed defining serious criminal offenses to narrow the bill's scope. Automatic reversal of suspension is recommended if prosecution fails within a set period. Fast-track courts are favored for trying cases involving constitutional functionaries.

The BJP faces a challenge in Bankipur after its initial candidate withdrew his nomination. Neeraj Kumar Sinha is now the party's announced candidate for the prestigious seat. This quick change has provided ammunition for the opposition parties. The BJP plans its campaign carefully to manage fallout and focus on voters. Neeraj Sinha will file his nomination on Monday with NDA leaders present.

Asaduddin Owaisi requested Telangana's Congress government to issue Permanent Residence Certificates. This move aims to prevent residents from electoral roll deletions during the revision exercise. Karnataka's Congress government recently issued similar certificates to its residents. The BJP has raised constitutional and national security concerns regarding this initiative. Union minister Shobha Karandlaje has sought intervention from the Union Home Minister.

Supporters of former MLA Narottam Mishra protested violently after he was denied a party ticket. Police dispersed the demonstrators, and several district office-bearers resigned from their positions. Mishra urged his workers to accept the BJP's decision and abide by party directives. He appealed to his supporters to avoid violence and use internal party channels. The party leadership confirmed the new candidate would not be replaced, which Mishra accepted.

Punjab Congress change seekers met with AICC in-charge Bhupesh Baghel. They reiterated their demand for removing the current PCC president. Leaders stated compromised leaders must be removed for party unity. Baghel assured them their issues would be conveyed to the high command. Warring responded by questioning who was compromised within the party.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah accused the BJP of attempting to destabilize his government. He claimed that BJP leaders offered money and ministerial positions to National Conference MLAs. One MLA reported being offered twenty to thirty crore rupees and statehood. Abdullah expressed confidence that his party legislators would not be swayed by such offers. NC President Farooq Abdullah also acknowledged attempts to break the party.

The Ritabrata Banerjee-led rebel TMC faction has unveiled parallel state and district committees. Longtime loyalists, including Anubrata Mondal, have joined the rebel group, signaling institutional building. This move signifies a shift beyond challenging Mamata Banerjee's leadership and towards a parallel party apparatus. The faction is also seeking recognition as the eal Trinamool Congress from the Election Commission.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inspected ongoing modernisation works at the Assam State Zoo. He also reviewed infrastructure development at Dr Bhupen Hazarika Samannay Tirtha in Guwahati. The Chief Minister directed experts to develop the veterinary hospital and examine an internal train service. Modernisation of the zoo is underway at an estimated cost of Rs 360 crore.

Members of the parliamentary panel, comprising legal specialists, concluded that One Nation One Election adheres to constitutional frameworks, emphasizing that simultaneous elections uphold federalism and democratic integrity. Economists are in favor, arguing that synchronized electoral cycles could substantially enhance economic performance. The committee is actively collating insights from across India to shape a legislative proposal benefiting the nation.

The government of West Bengal will roll out a new single-window clearance system for investments over one hundred crore rupees. This initiative guarantees that land constraints will not be an obstacle for upcoming industrial ventures. The objective is to stimulate significant investment inflow, thereby fostering industrial expansion and creating a wealth of employment for the local populace, reaffirming the state's status as a premier investment destination.

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar warned police officers against corruption and criminal involvement. He launched 32 mobile forensic vans and 75 Bolero vehicles for district police units. The government announced a ten lakh rupee reward for a team that busted a drug network. Police have seized narcotics worth 375 crore rupees and arrested 1,500 peddlers. Measures are being introduced to improve crime detection and ensure transparency in police recruitment.

Prashant Kishor called the BJP candidate's withdrawal from the Bankipur bypoll unprecedented. He claimed the saffron party lacks a candidate of calibre for the contest. The BJP nominee pulled out citing family reasons after filing his nomination papers. Kishor stated people now want change and will teach the BJP a lesson. The by-election is scheduled for July 30, with results on August 3.

India and New Zealand elevated their bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his counterpart Christopher Luxon during his visit. The two nations set a five-year target to double bilateral trade. They also agreed to establish a maritime security dialogue. This visit followed the recent signing of the India New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.

The Bharatiya Janata Party changed its Bankipur bypoll candidate after Abhishek Kumar Sinha withdrew. Neeraj Kumar Sinha was named the new nominee by the party's central election committee. Opposition parties alleged the BJP feared public anger and was concerned about its election prospects. Prashant Kishor stated the move admitted the BJP fields corrupt people. Polling for the Bankipur bypoll is scheduled for July thirtieth.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged the Centre to clarify the meaning of 'appropriate time'. He stated that patience should not be mistaken for weakness by the central government. Abdullah questioned why the Centre could talk to Ladakh but not Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed frustration that the ruling party's success has become a punishment for the people.

Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has accused the BJP of attempts to undermine his government. He claims the BJP is trying to fracture the National Conference party by enticing his legislators with lucrative offers, including a reported Rs 30 crore and a ministerial position.

Educator Sonam Wangchuk is on an indefinite hunger strike for examination irregularities. He asks people to become their own heroes and fulfill civic duties. Wangchuk is in his 14th day of fasting and has lost significant weight. He encourages participation in protests and a march to Parliament. The Cockroach Janta Party's protest continues for alleged student suicides.

Telangana BJP President N Ramchander Rao has opposed the issuance of Permanent Residence Certificates without comprehensive verification processes. He highlighted the potential security implications and the risk of facilitating illegal immigrants. Rao condemned Congress and AIMIM for advocating PRC distribution without necessary safeguards.

Punjab's Special Intensive Revision exercise has digitised over one crore enumeration forms. Nearly all enumeration forms have been distributed, ensuring broad voter outreach. Special camps are organised to complete form collection and address voter discrepancies. The draft electoral rolls will be published on August 3rd. Final electoral rolls are scheduled for publication on October 1st.

Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon accused the AAP government of rigging recent Morinda municipal elections. Dhillon stated that the BJP submitted a memorandum to Governor Gulab Chand Kataria seeking intervention. He alleged unprecedented irregularities and manipulation during the election process in Morinda. Meanwhile, Congress leader Charanjit Singh Channi also accused the AAP government of election manipulation. Bhupesh Baghel is scheduled to meet Punjab Congress leaders amid internal p

Congress leader K C Venugopal alleged massive embezzlement of Ram Temple donations. He questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on the serious issue. Venugopal stated the Congress will demand answers in the upcoming Parliament session. He claimed the alleged loot affected millions of believers across the country. The Congress leader also alleged similar reports from Badrinath and Kedarnath temples.

AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami urged the party's IT wing to adopt advanced technology. He stressed the need for members to adapt to digital developments and enhance their online presence. This directive follows a perceived generation gap in social media handling compared to rivals. The party aims to leverage Artificial Intelligence for future electoral campaigns effectively. Modern elections are increasingly driven by digital perception and outreach strategies.

Violence erupted in Datia, Madhya Pradesh, as BJP supporters clashed with police. Protesters blocked a national highway for nearly twelve hours after a senior leader was denied a ticket. Several police officers sustained injuries during the prolonged demonstration and stone-pelting incident. Security forces eventually cleared the highway and made some arrests to restore order. The incident occurred following the announcement of Ashutosh Tiwari as the party's candidate.

Supriya Sule publicly supported Sharad Pawar's meeting with the deputy chief minister, asserting that engaging with constitutional functionaries is a standard protocol. She referenced the post-split encounter between Uddhav Thackeray and Ajit Pawar, emphasizing that these discussions are crucial for addressing Maharashtra's pressing issues and enhancing communication. Additionally, Sule dismissed allegations regarding NCP-SP MPs defecting to other parties.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated his party seeks protest permission. The National Conference announced a sit-in protest in the national capital. This demonstration is planned for July 20, Parliament's monsoon session opening day. The party aims to press the Centre for restoring Jammu and Kashmir's statehood. However, Abdullah alleged some people are trying to sabotage their plan.

Sunil Sharma, affiliated with the BJP, dismissed the National Conference's planned protest as an eye wash, suggesting it is designed to obscure the ruling party's shortcomings. He pointed out that the planned July 20 event, which has drawn invitations to various leaders, would see no participation from the BJP. Sharma highlighted that the real concerns in J&K stem from high unemployment and dwindling resources, not political theatrics.

Amid the controversy over alleged theft of donations at the temple, the issue of changes at the trust is expected to figure prominently during the Sangh's annual three-day Akhil Bharatiya Prant Pracharak Baithak, which began at Hubballi in Karnataka on Friday.

Senior Congress leaders will meet Bhupesh Baghel on Saturday. This meeting occurs three days after he ruled out leadership changes. Charanjit Singh Channi and others are expected to attend the discussion. Buta Singh's family demanded Channi as the chief ministerial candidate. Upcoming assembly polls are scheduled for early next year.

On Friday afternoon, Abhishek wrote a letter to Saraogi stating he is unable to contest the election due to family reasons. However, party sources told ET that there was some confusion regarding information about his family and education in the nomination paper. The party feared his nomination could be cancelled.

In a strategic move towards enhanced communication, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has designated three BJP MLAs as official government spokespersons. Abhay Verma, the MLA representing Laxmi Nagar, takes on the role of chief spokesperson, alongside Anil Sharma and Harish Khurana.

Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal announced a toll plaza blockade for July 14. Protesters will demonstrate against the Punjab government's land-pooling policy. They also protest alleged irregularities in the Land Mortgage Bank. The proposed India-US free trade agreement is another point of contention. Farmers demand the immediate withdrawal of the land policy and action against bank officials.

Congress appointed new office bearers for the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee. These appointments are seen as preparations for the upcoming assembly elections. Leaders discussed party strategy and organizational preparedness for the 2027 polls. They believe the BJP's politics has caused the state's ongoing civil war. The party aims to restore peace and build bridges in Manipur.

The BJP replaced its Bankipur assembly bypoll candidate Abhishek Kumar Sinha. He withdrew his nomination citing family reasons after being announced on Tuesday. The party then nominated Neeraj Kumar Sinha as its new candidate for the bypoll. This closely watched contest will also feature poll strategist Prashant Kishor. Voting is scheduled for July 30, with results on August 3.

Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje has accused the Karnataka government of misusing permanent residence certificates. She alleges the state is using these certificates to regularize illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. The minister has requested Home Minister Amit Shah to intervene and halt the certificate issuance. Karandlaje claims this process aids illegal immigrants in obtaining government benefits. She argues the move compromises national security and electoral integrity.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticized Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. He alleged past government restrictions on Hindu traditions like Kanwar Yatra. Adityanath stated the BJP government now welcomes kanwariyas with flower petals. He also accused the SP of displacing the poor from graveyard designated lands. The Chief Minister highlighted the BJP's focus on faith and infrastructure development.

The Calcutta High Court ordered Abhishek Banerjee to give his voice sample on July 15. Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya expressed displeasure over the delay in providing the sample. The court directed police to ensure Banerjee faces no harassment during his appearance. Banerjee's plea seeking quashing of proceedings was dismissed as withdrawn. He must cooperate with the investigation and comply with notices.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has alleged that Samajwadi Party and Congress disrespected Hindu faith by allowing namaz at Hanumangarhi temple. Adityanath demanded an apology for this 'sin'.

Educator Sonam Wangchuk enters his thirteenth day of an indefinite hunger strike. He feels his hunger has stabilized while supporting the CJP's protest. Wangchuk asserts his constitutional right to protest peacefully at Jantar Mantar. He seeks accountability for examination irregularities and Ladakh's issues. The CJP plans a march to Parliament if demands are not met.

Supriya Sule has dismissed speculation regarding a merger between her party and the Congress. She asserted that no merger proposals have been exchanged between the two political parties. The Nationalist Congress Party (SP) and Congress will continue working together as allies. Sule highlighted their cordial relations and regular coordination on various political matters. Both parties are constituents of the Maha Vikas Aghadi and INDIA bloc alliances.

Assam's budget proposes barring polygamous individuals from state welfare schemes. Government employees practicing polygamy will face dismissal from their service. The state aims to promote women's empowerment and gender justice through these measures. Welfare schemes will be delivered through a unified digital beneficiary architecture. The budget also includes tax exemptions for tea growers and VAT cuts.

A parliamentary committee is developing a mechanism for simultaneous elections by 2029. Nearly all consulted stakeholders support the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal. This reform aims to prevent an estimated Rs 7 lakh crore economic loss. Frequent polls disrupt governance and negatively impact education systems. The committee seeks broad consensus for this major electoral reform.

In an assertive stance, the Congress party has condemned the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, calling it a disturbing constitutional infringement by the central government. This bill is criticized for transferring grant distribution authority from education professionals to politicians, potentially undermining the operational freedom of elite institutes like IITs and IIMs. The party is calling on states to voice their dissent against this initiative.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay spoke about the Karur stampede tragedy. He stated the incident remains a deep wound in his political journey. Vijay alleged police failed to manage the crowd adequately during the event. He also accused the previous DMK government of shifting blame onto him. A memorial will be built in Karur to remember the victims.

The BJP nominated three former TMC MPs for Rajya Sabha bypolls after their induction. These nominations signal the ruling party's focus on consolidating its position in state politics. The BJP comfortably crosses the required MLA support mark to win all three seats. This move reinforces the BJP's confidence in showcasing legislative dominance and attracting opposition leaders.

The battle for Punjab's 2027 opposition leadership is intensifying among key parties. Congress faces internal friction after recent leadership appointments and decisions. The BJP is stepping up its outreach efforts with planned visits by top leaders. The Shiromani Akali Dal fights to regain its former political relevance. This contest shapes up as an opposition struggle before the main election.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay will visit Karur today for government and party events. He will distribute compassionate government job appointment orders to victims' families. Vimal, who lost his young son, views the job offer positively. Vijay will also distribute welfare benefits and lay a factory foundation stone. Extensive security measures are in place for the Chief Minister's visit.

Ashok Singh, a 35-year Congress veteran, resigned from the party on Thursday. He alleged that Rahul Gandhi is being deceived by current party leadership. Veteran workers are being ignored while new members receive key positions. Singh was served a show-cause notice for attending a BJP event. His resignation follows other political developments within the Congress party.

Farooq Abdullah has invited political leaders nationwide to a peaceful protest. This demonstration aims to restore Jammu and Kashmir's statehood and federal spirit. The National Conference president seeks solidarity for this collective democratic cause. Promises of statehood restoration were made on the parliament floor. Leaders from various parties have been invited to join the Jantar Mantar event.