Politics / The Economic Times
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The National Conference has nominated Imran Nabi Dar as its fourth candidate for the Rajya Sabha polls in Jammu and Kashmir. This decision follows the Congress's refusal to field a candidate for the fourth seat, which was deemed unsafe by the party. The biennial elections are scheduled for October 24.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut suggested the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena could join the Maha Vikas Aghadi opposition bloc. However, MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande refuted this, stating the party's stance is solely decided by its chief. The Thackeray cousins have met multiple times recently. Discussions are ongoing regarding potential alliances for upcoming local body polls.
Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G Parameshwara stated that the decision to allow or ban RSS programs in government schools and colleges rests with the state government, not individual ministers, responding to Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharges request to bar such activities.
The Supreme Court declined to hear a Public Interest Litigation seeking a Special Investigation Team to probe Rahul Gandhi's allegations of electoral roll manipulation. Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi advised the petitioner to approach the Election Commission of India instead. The plea cited Gandhi's claims of fictitious and duplicate entries in Bengaluru's electoral rolls.
The Supreme Court has declined a plea for a special investigation into electoral roll manipulation claims. Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi advised the petitioner to approach the Election Commission of India. The court did not grant a time limit for the commission's decision. The plea referenced allegations made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding voter roll analysis in Karnataka.
Jagdeep Singh Cheema, a former Shiromani Akali Dal leader, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday. He was welcomed by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and other BJP leaders. Cheema had previously contested assembly elections unsuccessfully on an SAD ticket.
Congress leader Anil Akkara has urged the Enforcement Directorate and Finance Ministry to take legal action against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's son, Vivek Kiran. Kiran allegedly failed to appear for questioning in the Life Mission project money laundering case in 2023. Akkara stated Kiran's involvement and called for his interrogation to prevent case sabotage.
BJP leaders are criticizing the ruling DMK ahead of state elections. K Annamalai calls the DMK arrogant and says the BJP must secure all votes. Nainar Nagenthran questions the DMK's past actions regarding Katchatheevu. Annamalai also accuses the DMK of relying on money power. The BJP urges voters to support the National Democratic Alliance to oust the DMK.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday demanded a full investigation into allegations of sexual abuse within the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) after the suspected suicide of a young software engineer in Kerala.
The YSR Congress Party is launching a statewide agitation against spurious liquor in Andhra Pradesh, alleging corruption and the involvement of ruling TDP leaders. The party will hold protest demonstrations on October 13, demanding a probe into wine shops, CBI inquiry, and compensation for victims. They also seek government control over liquor sales and reduced working hours.
Jammu and Kashmir advisor Nasir Aslam Wani defended the UT government's performance, suggesting the PDP's past BJP alliance might have led to the loss of Articles 370 and 35A. He urged patience from the opposition, stating criticism alone won't restore statehood. Wani also emphasized India's 'big brother' role in regional ties, advocating for better relations with neighbors and reviving SAARC.
BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul has strongly condemned West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's remarks following an alleged gangrape in Durgapur, calling them Taliban mentality. Paul criticized Banerjee's advice for girls to stay indoors at night, asserting it blames victims and protects perpetrators. She vowed that women would deliver a strong message in the 2026 elections.
Mehbooba Mufti has criticised the BJP-led Centre's approach, highlighting what she calls internal hypocrisy. She pointed out that while the government targets Indian Muslims with narratives of 'jihad', it is simultaneously engaging with and offering aid to the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. Mufti questioned this dual stance, especially concerning educational scholarships for Afghan students.
The BJP's Central Election Committee met to finalize tickets for its first list of candidates, agreeing to contest 101 out of 243 seats in Bihar. The party plans to retain most sitting MLAs, citing a lack of anti-incumbency, and will prioritize winnability with a focus on caste and social equations, potentially including more women candidates.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged women hostel residents to refrain from going out late at night. She emphasized the importance of adhering to hostel regulations for their safety. Banerjee assured that strict measures will be implemented against those responsible for any incidents.
Karnataka is considering a ban on RSS activities in public spaces, citing concerns that the organization undermines constitutional principles and incites unrest among youth. This move follows a letter from the IT/BT minister, sparking strong opposition from the BJP who label it a political diversion.
On the RTI Act's 20th anniversary, Congress accused the Modi government of systematically corroding the legislation, leaving the Central Information Commission headless and weakening the public interest clause. The party cited five key RTI revelations that prompted the government to dilute the act in 2019, impacting transparency and citizen rights.
The Bharatiya Janata Party has named three candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Sat Pal Sharma, Ali Mohammed Mir, and Rakesh Mahajan are the chosen nominees. Elections for four vacant seats are scheduled for October 24.
Amid intense seat-sharing talks for the Bihar Assembly election, HAM chief Jitan Ram Manjhi reaffirmed his loyalty to PM Modi and expressed confidence in an NDA victory. Senior BJP leaders are in Delhi finalizing arrangements, while the INDIA bloc, including RJD and Congress, prepares to contest. Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj party also enters the fray.
Manipur BJP legislators met central leaders in Delhi and were assured that President's Rule, in effect for eight months, will not be extended. The delegation, including former CM N. Biren Singh, briefed the BJP leadership on the state's political and security situation, pressing for the restoration of an elected government.
Chhattisgarh Congress leaders accused the state EOW/ACB of fabricating evidence in the coal scam case, alleging a forged statement under Section 164 CrPC was submitted to the Supreme Court. Forensic analysis reportedly revealed different fonts, suggesting pre-typed documents were used, prompting a complaint seeking criminal action against three officials.
The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for the Jubilee Hills Assembly Constituency bye-election. Nominations close on October 21. Polling will be held on November 11, with vote counting on November 14. Strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct is mandated. Enforcement teams are actively monitoring for violations.
Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee will not contest the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections due to its alliance partner National Conference refusing a safe seat. The party's central leadership had requested one of the two seats going to polls separately, but the NC offered a seat under a common notification, which was deemed ot safe by Congress leaders.
Manipur BJP MLA Kh Ibomcha stated that central leaders assured a delegation of state legislators that the extended President's rule will not be further prolonged. The legislators met with central leaders to discuss the political situation and urged acceleration of the peace process, aiming for the installation of a popular government soon.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis lauded Chief Justice of India BR Gavai for enhancing the justice system. He noted improvements in infrastructure and judge vacancies. Chief Justice Gavai emphasized Dr BR Ambedkar's Constitution as the bedrock of India's unity and progress. He stated that judicial infrastructure expansion ensures justice for all citizens.
Karnataka is contemplating a ban on RSS activities in public spaces. The government cites concerns about the organization acting against constitutional principles and allegedly inciting unrest among youth. This move has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition BJP, who view it as a political diversion. The IT/BT minister's letter to the Chief Minister initiated this examination.
The BJP has attacked the Congress following P Chidambaram's comments on Operation Blue Star. Chidambaram stated the operation was wrong and Indira Gandhi paid with her life. The BJP labeled the event a political misadventure. They questioned if the Congress would act against Chidambaram for his truthful admission. The party highlighted the tragic consequences for the Sikh community.
Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath visited Chhindwara. He met families whose children died after consuming a contaminated cough syrup. Nath alleged administrative negligence by the state government. He demanded strict punishment and Rs 50 lakh compensation for each victim's family. The deaths are linked to a cough syrup manufactured in Tamil Nadu.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has labelled Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath an infiltrator. Yadav stated Adityanath, who hails from Uttarakhand, should be sent back to his home state. He also claimed Adityanath is an ideological infiltrator. These remarks follow Union Home Minister Amit Shah's comments on political parties using infiltrators as a vote bank.
Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party vowed to lift Bihar's liquor ban if elected, claiming it would save Rs 28,000 crore in revenue. This saved revenue, they stated, would be used to secure loans of Rs 5-6 lakh crore from the World Bank and IMF, leveraging the financial expertise of new party member Kumar Saurav.
I'm shocked to see the incident, but private medical colleges also should take care of their students, and especially girls. The girls should not be allowed to go outside (college) at night. They have to protect themselves also. There is a forest area. Police are searching all the people, Mamata Banerjee said.
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has requested Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to ban all Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh activities. Kharge stated these activities in government institutions and public spaces contradict India's unity and constitutional spirit. He cited concerns about negative ideas being instilled in children and youth. The minister emphasized the need to uphold secular values and protect the well-being of the public.
Pappu Yadav stresses the Mahagathbandhan's significance for the Bihar Assembly polls. He calls the election a fight between destruction and development. Rahul Gandhi's strength will be key for the INDIA bloc. Seat sharing discussions are nearing completion. The elections will be held on November 6 and November 11. Vote counting is on November 14.
Senior Congress leader Manishankar Aiyar lauded Rajiv Gandhi's leadership at the Khushwant Singh Literary Festival, contrasting his policies with the current administration's perceived neglect of India's peripheries. Aiyar highlighted Gandhi's focus on national interest over party politics, citing accords in Punjab, Assam, Mizoram, and Kashmir as examples of his 'healing touch' approach.
Congress leaders are unhappy with P Chidambaram's comments on Operation Bluestar. They believe senior party members should be cautious with public statements. Chidambaram stated Operation Bluestar was wrong and Indira Gandhi paid with her life. Party sources indicate widespread agitation over repeated embarrassing remarks. The operation aimed to remove militants from the Golden Temple.
Congress leader Rashid Alvi questioned P Chidambaram's recent criticism of Operation Blue Star. Alvi suggested Chidambaram might be under pressure due to pending criminal cases. He asked why Chidambaram is attacking the Congress party and Indira Gandhi after 50 years. Alvi stated Chidambaram should focus on the BJP's shortcomings instead of criticizing the Congress party.
Raj Thackeray visited his cousin Uddhav Thackeray's home again this week. This meeting fuels speculation about a possible alliance between their parties for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. Both leaders' parties faced setbacks in recent assembly polls. Leaders confirm an alliance is being considered for the civic polls.
Delhi AAP President Saurabh Bharadwaj stated the Supreme Court directly supervises firecracker bans. The Supreme Court recently indicated it might lift restrictions on green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR for Diwali, reserving its order after hearing requests for specific timings. The court previously allowed green firecracker manufacturing in Delhi, with sales restricted outside NCR.
The Congress marked the RTI Act's 20th anniversary, calling it a vital democratic reform and warning of its erosion. Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar highlighted how amendments and new laws have weakened transparency and accountability, leading to a backlog of cases and attacks on activists.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has challenged Union Home Minister Amit Shah's statements on population growth and infiltration. Owaisi claims Shah is misrepresenting census data and questions his understanding of mathematics. He points to declining fertility rates among Muslims and asks why infiltration cannot be stopped.
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has clarified no alliance decision with Congress for the Jubilee Hills by-election. He maintains a good relationship with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. Owaisi also addressed his interactions with the BJP, emphasizing he meets Union Ministers for constituency work without ideological compromise. He stressed his commitment to serving his elected constituents.