34 C The Times of India
Elections 2026Top News / The Times of India
Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai has fueled speculation about his political future by traveling to Delhi and offering a cryptic Please wait when asked about reports of launching a new party. This comes amid posters from supporters in Coimbatore calling for him to lead, amplifying discussions about his next move after the 2026 assembly elections.
BJP has strongly criticized Congress MP Kapil Sibal for his remarks on democracy, accusing him of hating India and selectively ignoring violence. Sibal's comments followed an alleged attack on TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee in West Bengal. The BJP questioned Sibal's silence on past incidents while criticizing the ruling party.
India has dispatched vital medical supplies, including diagnostics and therapeutics, to aid the Democratic Republic of Congo's fight against the escalating Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak. The Africa CDC expressed deep gratitude for this crucial assistance, which was channeled through its regional hub in Uganda and is now being deployed to affected areas.
The Congress party has strongly criticized the Centre for increasing commercial LPG cylinder prices by up to Rs 53.50 from June 1, accusing Prime Minister Modi of burdening citizens. The opposition highlighted that commercial LPG prices have cumulatively risen by Rs 1,571.50 since the year began, also noting a Rs 11 hike in 5-kg FTL cylinders.
Advice Comes Amid Govt's Renewed Push
Indian Railways has significantly reduced its diesel consumption by 185 crore litres annually, a direct result of its ambitious electrification drive. With 99.6% of the broad-gauge network now electrified, diesel use has plummeted to 37% of 2016-17 levels, saving foreign exchange and insulating operations from global fuel price volatility.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge stated that the party is actively searching for a new Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president to strengthen the organization for upcoming elections. Discussions regarding the new Karnataka cabinet composition are ongoing, with a phased expansion potentially occurring after the June 3 swearing-in ceremony.
Rahul Gandhi met CBSE Class 12 students labelled 'anti-national' after questioning an incorrect Physics answer sheet. The board later admitted an error. Gandhi criticized the government's response, stating the students deserve a secure future and that problems can't be solved by denying them. The incident highlighted scrutiny of the board's evaluation process.
TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee revealed that Rahul Gandhi offered assistance for Abhishek Banerjee's medical treatment following an alleged attack in West Bengal. Gandhi condemned the incident as an assault on democracy, while the TMC blamed BJP-backed supporters, a claim the BJP denies.
Exclusive breastfeeding among Indian infants under six months has significantly declined, dropping from 63.7% to 55.8% according to the NFHS-6 survey. This worrying trend, despite improvements in other child health indicators, highlights a critical gap in breastfeeding support and counselling for mothers across the nation.
Grants Relief To PFI Member In Jail For Over A Year
A Pakistani journalist's query about India's alleged Agni-6 ICBM test at the Shangri-La Dialogue was based on misinformation. India confirmed a recent test involved an advanced Agni missile with MIRV technology, not the Agni-6. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth avoided singling out either India or Pakistan as a threat.
Punjab's Cabinet has approved a plan to end contractual employment, paving the way for over 65,000 workers across 51 departments to be regularized. This historic decision aims to provide job security and dignity, transitioning outsourced staff to contractual roles and eventually to permanent positions. The move ensures direct employer-employee relationships and benefits for thousands serving the state.
Delhi experienced a weather paradox in May, facing its hottest month in two years alongside its cleanest air quality in approximately five. Intense heatwaves and unusually warm nights were punctuated by pre-monsoon showers and strong winds, which significantly improved air quality, offering a welcome respite.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi stated that distance from conflict no longer guarantees freedom from consequences, especially with ongoing tensions impacting maritime routes around the Strait of Hormuz. The Indian Navy has increased its presence and surveillance in the region to ensure the safe passage of trade and protect national interests amidst rising instability and strategic competition.
TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee was allegedly attacked with stones and shoes in West Bengal's Sonarpur while visiting families affected by post-poll violence. Opposition parties, including the Congress and Samajwadi Party, condemned the incident, accusing the BJP of orchestrating the attack. The BJP denied involvement, attributing the incident to local anger.
TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee faced an attack during a visit to families affected by post-poll violence in West Bengal. Meanwhile, DK Shivakumar was unanimously chosen as the Karnataka Congress Legislature Party leader. Vinesh Phogat missed a 2026 Asian Games spot after a semifinal loss. CUET-UG faced delays due to technical issues, and Delhi-NCR residents received severe thunderstorm alerts.
A Delhi court has ordered charges to be framed against 17 individuals, including Sukesh Chandrashekhar and Jacqueline Fernandez, in a Rs 200-crore extortion and money laundering case. The Enforcement Directorate's probe revealed Chandrashekhar allegedly ran a criminal network from jail, extorting vast sums. Proceeds were used for lavish purchases, leading to this significant legal development.