The Times of India
Elections 2026Politics / The Times of India
The CBSE has begun releasing Class 12 verification and re-evaluation results, covering over 87% of applications. This follows student concerns about potential answer sheet mismatches with their handwriting, raising transparency issues. The board assures a robust system and urges students to rely on official communications, with remaining results to be announced soon via DigiLocker.
On rebel MPs statement they have the requisite twothird numbers threshold required to be exempt from the law and retain membership of the House he said that the merger will be accepted only when two-third of the political party merges with another political party and not just legislative party.
Nihangs have taken a gurdwara manager hostage in Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag, demanding the release of four members arrested after a clash in Karnaprayag. The group, armed with traditional weapons, occupied the gurdwara roof, raising slogans. The incident stems from a dispute over parking that escalated into violence, leading to the arrests. Authorities are negotiating for their descent while investigating the initial clash.
The investigation into alleged embezzlement of Ram Temple funds has escalated, leading a Special Investigation Team to restrict trust and temple officials from exiting Ayodhya. As discrepancies surface, investigators are meticulously analyzing donation records, which include valuable items. They are also reviewing large transactions from the Maha Kumbh festival, when considerable contributions were made, along with examining land acquisitions and material procurement associated with the temple p
Karnataka BJP is investigating alleged cross-voting by its MLAs in the recent Legislative Council polls, which saw the ruling Congress secure a significant victory. Party president B Y Vijayendra announced a legislature party meeting at Dharmasthala, where MLAs might take an oath before Lord Manjunatha to reveal the truth. He termed the alleged betrayal a serious matter that will be pursued to its conclusion, aiming to restore party worker confidence.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan spoke with the parents of Shrishti Dubey, a Kolkata NEET-UG aspirant who, despite a severe road accident and surgery, was able to take the re-exam. Special medical arrangements, including a separate room and ambulance, were made following government intervention. Shrishti's parents expressed immense gratitude, crediting the minister for enabling their daughter's participation. Pradhan conveyed his best wishes for her success and future as a doctor.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal has alleged that ig names are involved in the Ram Temple donation theft case, claiming the government could face collapse if their identities are revealed. He questioned the lack of FIRs despite reports of crores in cash and valuables being stolen, urging swift action to protect public faith over political interests.
Across India and its waters, armed forces personnel marked the 12th International Day of Yoga with widespread sessions. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led a large gathering in Shillong, emphasizing yoga's role in holistic well-being and a disciplined life. From high-altitude posts to parade grounds, soldiers, sailors, and air warriors embraced the theme 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing,' showcasing India's ancient traditions as a global movement for humanity's health.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three indigenous naval platformsINS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak, and INS Agrayin Kolkata, marking a significant stride in India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing. These advanced vessels bolster the nation's maritime security and operational capabilities. The event underscores India's growing prowess in shipbuilding and its commitment to becoming a major global defence producer, with over 40 indigenously built warships inducted recently.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delayed his departure from Delhi airport on Sunday to prevent traffic disruptions for students appearing for the NEET-UG re-exam. Arriving at 1:15 pm, he waited to ensure smooth passage to examination centres across 551 cities and 14 international locations. The exam, held at 5,440 centres, featured extensive CCTV surveillance and jammers to prevent malpractice, with heightened security and strict checks in Delhi.
Protesters at Jantar Mantar, demanding Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over examination controversies, face water supply issues in restrooms. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) highlighted the lack of basic facilities for demonstrators, contrasting it with the minister's situation. Meanwhile, the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination is underway nationwide, with CJP inviting aspirants to join their protest post-exam.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led International Yoga Day celebrations in Kolkata, emphasizing Yoga for Healthy Ageing and its role in maintaining physical and mental well-being. Across India, Union ministers and chief ministers participated in mass yoga sessions, highlighting yoga's global reach and its contribution to a healthier, more vibrant nation. The day marked a collective global celebration of yoga's benefits.
India's food regulator, FSSAI, is cracking down on misleading health claims on food and supplement labels. Products marketed as atural, healthy, or o added sugar are under scrutiny for potentially deceiving consumers. This intensified enforcement follows rising complaints and social media attention, aiming to ensure transparency and protect public health by urging consumers to look beyond catchy marketing phrases.
A classroom at Lahore's Aitchison College, once attended by leaders from undivided Punjab, now bridges India and Pakistan. A tribute to former Punjab CM Harcharan Singh Brar, funded by his 100-year-old schoolmate Syed Babar Ali, highlights enduring friendships forged before Partition. This initiative is part of a larger effort to remember the institution's pre-1947 past, honouring students and teachers scattered by history.
CBSE's on-screen marking system for Class XII exams faces an uncertain future. The board will consult students, teachers, and parents before deciding on its continuation for 2027 and potential expansion to Class X. This review follows complaints about the system's debut, including scanning issues and unevaluated answers, and aims to address gaps exposed during recent exams and rebuild trust.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's assertion that Prime Minister Modi raised concerns about Indian civilian sailors with US President Trump has sparked internal party friction. This statement contradicts Rahul Gandhi's claim that the issue was ignored. The BJP has seized on Tharoor's remarks, highlighting the divergence within Congress and his praise for the Prime Minister's leadership.
Ladakh's political groups, Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, have called for a shutdown on June 23, accusing the Centre of reneging on agreements regarding legislative powers and constitutional safeguards. They warn of renewed agitation if their demands for full statehood and Sixth Schedule status are not met, emphasizing that public mobilization will proceed despite the Dalai Lama's upcoming visit.
Over 8,500 pilgrims, predominantly Kashmiri Pandits, embarked on their journey from Jammu for the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela. The significant increase in registrations this year is attributed to a peaceful environment, enhanced security, and comprehensive arrangements. Officials have been stationed at various shrines across Kashmir to ensure smooth proceedings for the devotees participating in the revered yatra.
Nimbalkar was among the six MPs who stayed away from the June 17 meeting convened by the Uddhav Thackeray-led party. With Shiv Sena (UBT) holding nine seats in the Lok Sabha, the rebel faction requires the support of at least six MPs, or two-thirds of the parliamentary party, to avoid attracting provisions of the anti-defection law.
BJP chief Nitin Nabin launched a three-day Punjab visit, emphasizing a vision for the state mirroring Maharaja Ranjit Singh's era. His tour, including prayers at the Golden Temple and a Jalandhar roadshow, signals intensified preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections. Nabin met with the Punjab BJP core committee to strategize on organizational strengthening and booth-level expansion, aiming to form a 'double-engine government' under PM Modi's leadership.
Authorities have implemented extensive security measures for the NEET re-exam on June 21, including a ban on Telegram and Indian Air Force involvement in transporting question papers. Over 13,500 CCTV cameras, 51,000 jammers, and AI surveillance are in place. Massive police and paramilitary forces are deployed, with stringent biometric verification and mock drills conducted to ensure a fair and secure examination process nationwide.
India hosts a crucial BRICS security conclave in New Delhi, bringing together top officials including China's Wang Yi and Russia's Shoigu. Discussions will centre on global flashpoints like the Middle East conflict and the Ukraine war, alongside regional security and terrorism concerns. This meeting serves as a vital prelude to the upcoming BRICS Summit, with a focus on non-traditional security challenges and emerging technologies.
India, once concerned about a population boom, now faces a declining birth rate, with the Total Fertility Rate dropping to 1.9 children per woman, below the replacement level. This significant shift reflects women's increased educational attainment, career focus, and later marriages, leading to more personal choices about family planning. The narrative is evolving from population control to individual decisions, marking a societal transition.
Ahead of the NEET re-exam, Rahul Gandhi offered encouragement to students and urged the government to prevent further disruptions. He highlighted the stress faced by aspirants, referencing a case of a Nagpur student reportedly assigned an Abu Dhabi center, though the NTA clarified the student chose the option. Gandhi emphasized the need for a reliable examination system.
The CBI will challenge the acquittal of nine individuals, including former NCP leader Padamsinh Patil, in the 2006 Pawanraje Nimbalkar double murder case. Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister confirmed the appeal to the Bombay High Court, citing disappointment with the special court's decision. The acquittal, nearly two decades after the murders, hinged on the unreliability of a key witness. This high-profile political murder case is set for further legal battle.
A political storm has erupted in Varanasi after Congress workers depicted Rahul Gandhi as Lord Parshuram, performing a symbolic milk ablution on his photograph. The BJP has strongly condemned the act, accusing the Congress of disrespecting Hindu faith and using religious symbols for political gain. Congress leaders, however, defended the gesture, questioning the BJP's monopoly on religious figures and asserting Gandhi's distinct identity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated President Droupadi Murmu's birthday by highlighting her dedication to public service before joining her in Odisha. Their visit included engagements in her native Mayurbhanj district and the inauguration of development projects exceeding Rs 47,600 crore. These initiatives span energy, infrastructure, healthcare, and more, aiming to boost connectivity and create jobs across the state.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has strongly criticized Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, labeling him a dishonest leader who betrayed the party. Raut also drew parallels with West Bengal's Suvendu Adhikari, suggesting both leaders make provocative statements while in power. He warned that public backlash awaits them once their power diminishes, amidst speculation of MPs switching parties.
Political tensions escalate between Shiv Sena factions as Sanjay Raut fires back at Eknath Shinde's 'lion' jibe with a post calling some people disloyal dogs. This follows speculation of six Uddhav Thackeray camp MPs potentially defecting to Shinde's side. Raut announced action, including disqualification efforts, against the absent MPs, while Thackeray emotionally appealed to workers, vowing not to hand the party to 'thieves'.
India has achieved a significant leadership role in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) with Vivek Aggarwal elected as its Vice President. This appointment underscores India's commitment to combating money laundering and terrorist financing globally. Aggarwal's extensive experience, including leading India's FATF delegation and heading the Financial Intelligence Unit, will bolster the organization's efforts to secure financial integrity and dismantle illicit financial systems.
West Bengal Police have apprehended Sarina Bibi, wife of former TMC leader Jahangir Khan, for allegedly masterminding an attack on Falta police station. The incident aimed to free Khan from custody. This arrest is part of a wider crackdown on Khan's alleged criminal network, following his own apprehension near the India-Nepal border. Investigations into the attack are ongoing, with further arrests anticipated.
Pilots' union FIP alleges the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's report on Air India flight 171 omits crucial cockpit warnings of an electrical failure preceding engine loss. Independent simulator tests commissioned by FIP reportedly contradict the Bureau's timeline for emergency power deployment, raising serious questions about the investigation's findings and the fate of the deceased pilots.
Chaos erupted outside Kolkata airport Friday night as Trinamool and BJP supporters clashed violently. BJP supporters allegedly planned to target Abhishek Banerjee with rotten eggs, prompting a swift counter-response from TMC cadres. The altercation, involving blows and hurled objects, caused panic among passengers and massive traffic jams. Banerjee left the airport under heavy police escort, avoiding interaction.

39 C