The debate over India's long-running Maoist insurgency resurfaced on Monday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Naxalism is "counting its last breaths" and credited the NDA government's development-driven approach for weakening the insurgency. Speaking at a media event in New Delhi, Modi sharply criticized the Congress, alleging that leaders who now frequently invoke the Constitution had remained silent when large parts of the country were grappling with Maoist violence. His remarks come amid continued political sparring over governance, internal security and development in tribal regions. The Prime Minister said the government's "Nation First" approach has combined security operations with welfare initiatives, infrastructure development and improved governance to reduce the influence of Left-Wing Extremism. The comments have once again brought national attention to a movement that was once considered India's biggest internal security challenge.

According to the Prime Minister, previous governments largely treated Naxal-affected regions as permanently backward areas, while the NDA focused on integrating them into the mainstream through roads, education, healthcare, digital connectivity and employment opportunities.

Modi did not directly name Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, but his remarks were widely seen as a reference to Gandhi's practice of carrying a copy of the Constitution during public events and political campaigns.

Focus on Development

During his address, Modi highlighted several flagship initiatives, including the Swachh Bharat Mission, Make in India and the promotion of local products. He said these programs were designed around the principle of putting national interests first.

The Prime Minister also pointed to the Aspirational Districts and Aspirational Blocks programmes, claiming that more than 100 districts and over 500 blocks previously categorized as backward regions have witnessed measurable improvements in governance and development indicators.

Officials have frequently argued that better infrastructure and public services in tribal and remote areas have reduced the appeal of extremist groups and strengthened state presence.

Security and Governance

The Prime Minister's comments echoed earlier statements made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. During the Budget Session of Parliament in March, Shah stated that India had effectively become free from Naxal influence and reiterated the government's commitment to eliminating the remaining pockets of Left-Wing Extremism.

According to government data and security assessments, the geographical spread of Maoist activity has declined significantly over the past decade. Areas once considered strongholds of insurgent groups have seen increased security deployment alongside development projects.

However, security experts note that while violence has reduced substantially, isolated incidents and operational challenges remain in some forested regions of central India.

Background of the Naxalite Movement

The Naxalite movement began in 1967 in Naxalbari, a village in West Bengal's Darjeeling district. Over time, it expanded across several states, creating what became known as the "Red Corridor."

At its peak during the early 2000s, the insurgency affected large parts of central and eastern India and posed a significant challenge to internal security. Successive governments adopted a mix of security operations and welfare measures to address the issue.

Analysts say the current political debate reflects broader questions about how development, governance and security policies should be balanced in historically marginalized tribal regions.

As the government continues to emphasize both development and counter-insurgency measures, the future trajectory of Left-Wing Extremism remains an important issue in India's national security and governance agenda. The latest remarks by the Prime Minister are likely to keep the discussion at the center of political and policy debates in the coming months.

A recent directive issued by the Chhattisgarh School Education Department mandating the recitation of the Gayatri Mantra during prayers in government schools has triggered a political and social debate across the state. The order, issued on June 12, includes the recitation of the national anthem, national song, Gayatri Mantra, Deep Mantra, Bhojan Mantra, and other traditional prayers as part of the daily school assembly.

The decision has drawn criticism from former Deputy Chief Minister T.S. Singh Deo, the Congress party, and several minority organizations, which argue that making the recitation of a religious mantra compulsory in government schools raises concerns about religious freedom and the secular character of public institutions.

The controversy has quickly become a topic of public discussion, with opposition leaders calling on the state government to reconsider the directive.

Concerns Over Religious Freedom

Speaking on the issue, former Deputy Chief Minister T.S. Singh Deo stated that religious freedom is one of the fundamental principles enshrined in the Constitution. He argued that the acceptance or recitation of any religious mantra should remain a matter of personal faith and individual choice.

According to Singh Deo, citizens should be free to practice and worship according to their beliefs, but no religious practice should be imposed on individuals belonging to different faiths. He maintained that making such recitations mandatory in government-run educational institutions could conflict with the spirit of constitutional secularism.

Political observers note that the issue has reignited discussions about the balance between cultural traditions and constitutional protections in public education.

Minority Organizations Demand Withdrawal

Several minority groups and educational organizations have also voiced their opposition to the directive. Representatives of minority community organizations submitted memorandums through local administrative authorities, urging the state government and the education minister to revoke the order.

These groups argue that government schools serve students from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. They contend that compulsory recitation of a mantra associated with a particular religious tradition may make some students uncomfortable and could be viewed as inconsistent with the principle of equal treatment.

The organizations have called for school assemblies to remain inclusive and focused on values that are acceptable to students from all communities.

Congress Criticizes Government Move

Leaders of the Congress party's minority wing have accused the government of prioritizing ideological issues over pressing challenges facing the education sector. They argue that concerns such as unemployment, rising costs, examination irregularities, and educational infrastructure require greater attention.

Party representatives have alleged that introducing mandatory religious recitations in schools risks creating unnecessary divisions and shifting focus away from academic priorities.

Local Congress leaders also expressed concern that educational institutions should remain spaces dedicated to learning and social harmony rather than becoming arenas for political or ideological debates.

Government Yet to Respond

As of now, the state government has not announced any changes to the directive. Education department officials have not publicly indicated whether the order will be reviewed following the objections raised by political leaders and community organizations.

The issue is expected to remain under discussion in the coming days as stakeholders from different sections of society continue to express their views.

The Supreme Court will take up Congress leader Meenakshi Natarajan's challenge against her Rajya Sabha nomination cancellation on Friday, even as the Election Commission maintains it hasn't received the petition copy.

 The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a Congress petition on Friday challenging the rejection of Madhya Pradesh Rajya Sabha candidate Meenakshi Natarajan's nomination papers. The petition, filed digitally at 1:48 am on Wednesday night, alleges the Returning Officer's decision was "illegal, arbitrary, and biased."

 EC Yet to Receive Papers

The Election Commission of India has clarified that it hasn't received a copy of the petition so far. According to officials familiar with the matter, the poll body is likely to seek legal opinion before taking any decision. The EC's stance has only added to the political uncertainty, with Congress leaders expressing growing frustration over the delay.

 3 PM Deadline Today

Thursday afternoon's 3 pm cutoff carries enormous weight – it's the final window for nomination withdrawals. If the Commission remains silent or rules against Congress by then, BJP candidate Mahesh Kewat will be declared elected unopposed. Two other BJP candidates, Tarun Chugh and Rajneesh Agrawal, are already set to win without contest, which would hand the BJP all three Rajya Sabha seats from Madhya Pradesh.

Congress leaders are scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu later today to raise the matter. A high-level strategy meeting is also underway at the party's Delhi headquarters to map out legal and political responses.

 What Happens Next

Legal experts point to several possible outcomes. Former Chief Election Commissioner O.P. Rawat said if the EC finds an error by the returning officer, Natarajan's nomination could be restored, making the election contested again. If no relief comes from the Commission, the Congress candidate stays out of the race.

The 3 pm deadline is critical because any EC decision favouring Congress must arrive before the withdrawal window shuts. If that doesn't happen, the party may seek judicial review and interim relief from the Supreme Court – though filing a petition alone won't stop the election process unless the Court intervenes.

 Why Nomination Was Rejected

The dispute traces back to June 9, when Returning Officer Arvind Sharma rejected Natarajan's nomination following objections raised by BJP candidates. The BJP alleged that Natarajan failed to disclose a pending legal matter in Telangana in her election affidavit (Form 26).

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Congress before the Election Commission, argued that no criminal case exists against Natarajan. He explained that the Telangana matter is only a private complaint where a court issued a notice seeking explanation – no charges have been framed. Congress maintains that unless a court formally takes cognisance and frames charges, it cannot be treated as a pending criminal case requiring disclosure.

The party has termed the rejection "illegal" and described it as an attempt to "steal seats." With the clock ticking, this has now escalated into a political and constitutional battle involving the Election Commission, the Supreme Court, and the President's office.

In a significant development, Karnataka minister Ramalinga Reddy resigned from Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar's three-day-old cabinet on Friday, expressing dissatisfaction over the departments assigned to him. The resignation came just a day after the state government announced the distribution of portfolios among ministers.

Reddy, a veteran Congress leader and MLA from BTM Layout, had reportedly sought the Bengaluru Development Department but was instead allocated the Water Resources Department. The Bengaluru Development portfolio is considered one of the most influential departments in the state, overseeing infrastructure and urban planning projects in the capital city.

Disagreement Over Portfolio Allocation

Speaking to reporters, Reddy clarified that his resignation was limited to the ministerial post and did not signal a departure from the Congress party.

The 72-year-old leader stated that he had served under several chief ministers during his long political career and had never sought ministerial positions for personal gain. He emphasized that he would continue to serve as a legislator and remained committed to the party.

According to reports, Reddy was unhappy with the final portfolio allocation and raised the issue during the first cabinet meeting held on Thursday.

Chief Minister Seeks Resolution

Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar sought to downplay the crisis, saying there was no reason for concern and that discussions would be held with Reddy to address his grievances.

Shivakumar explained that Reddy's concern was linked to the nature of the Water Resources Department, which requires extensive travel across the state. The Chief Minister indicated that the senior leader preferred a department that would allow him to focus more on Bengaluru-related issues.

Officials close to the government suggested that efforts were underway to persuade Reddy to withdraw his resignation and remain in the cabinet.

Cabinet Portfolios Announced

The portfolio allocation notification issued by the state government assigned key departments to several senior Congress leaders.

Among the notable appointments, Priyank Kharge was given the Home Department (excluding Intelligence), along with Information Technology and Biotechnology. Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara received Revenue and Sports, while Satish Jarkiholi was assigned Public Works.

Chief Minister Shivakumar retained several crucial portfolios, including Finance, Cabinet Affairs, Personnel and Administrative Reforms, and Intelligence.

Senior Leaders Included

The cabinet expansion also drew attention because of the inclusion of prominent political figures and family members of senior Congress leaders.

Yathindra Siddaramaiah, son of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, was allotted the Urban Development Department. Several other senior ministers received key responsibilities linked to infrastructure, industry, health, and rural development.

The Congress leader's swearing-in marks the completion of a power-sharing agreement with Siddaramaiah, who has now been appointed to the party's highest decision-making body

DK Shivakumar will be sworn in as the 24th Chief Minister of Karnataka this evening. The ceremony is scheduled for 4 pm at Lok Bhavan in Bengaluru, bringing to a close weeks of speculation over the leadership transition in the state.

The Congress Legislature Party had elected Shivakumar as its leader on 30 May, two days after Siddaramaiah submitted his resignation. Shivakumar now takes over from Siddaramaiah, who served as Chief Minister from 20 May 2023.

Cabinet list awaited

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Shivakumar said the Congress high command would release the list of ministers for the new cabinet either by 10 am or later in the afternoon today. He clarified that names circulating in various media outlets were not official.

The list will be finalised in Delhi and sent to the Raj Bhavan to complete the formalities ahead of the swearing-in ceremony.

Sources familiar with the matter indicated that the new cabinet may include Siddaramaiah along with the son of Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge. There is also speculation about the appointment of four Deputy Chief Ministers. Around 10 ministers from the current cabinet are expected to be dropped.

Top leaders to attend

Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are among the senior party leaders expected to be present at Lok Bhavan. Chief Ministers from Congress-ruled states including Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, and Telangana will also attend. The Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Jharkhand are likely to be there as well.

Just a day before the swearing-in, the party appointed Siddaramaiah as a member of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), the party's highest executive body.

 Power-sharing deal completed

The transition follows a formula worked out after the 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections, when both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar emerged as contenders for the top post. Under the arrangement, each was to serve as Chief Minister for two and a half years.

Siddaramaiah completed his term in November 2025 but remained in office. According to sources in the Karnataka Congress, Shivakumar was originally supposed to take over from December 2025. However, senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi were occupied with election preparations in Kerala, causing the delay.

Siddaramaiah had met Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and KC Venugopal in Delhi on 24 May, where he was asked to resign. He requested 48 hours and stepped down on 28 May.

 Shivakumar's profile

The incoming Chief Minister, born in 1962 in Kanakapura near Bengaluru, is the MLA from Kanakapura and belongs to the influential Vokkaliga community. Within the Congress party, he is known as a leader who prevents MLAs from defecting and as a key strategist managing financial and logistical support for major operations.

Shivakumar is among the richest politicians in the country with assets worth over ₹1,413 crore, involved in real estate, mining, and hospitality businesses. His election affidavit lists only a Toyota Qualis car. He also has debts of around ₹263 crore.

There are more than 19 criminal cases registered against him. The ED is investigating him in two money laundering cases. Following IT raids at his residence in 2017, officials reportedly recovered ₹8.5 crore. He was arrested in 2019 in the same case and spent 50 days in Tihar Jail. The CBI is also probing a disproportionate assets case against him.

Congress high command pushes leadership change amid power-sharing buzz

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is expected to resign on Thursday, paving the way for Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to take over the top post, according to multiple sources. The move comes after a marathon meeting with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi in Delhi on Tuesday.

The development marks a significant shift in Karnataka politics, ending months of speculation over the leadership tussle between the two senior Congress leaders.

High Command Meeting Lasts Over Six Hours

Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar arrived in the national capital on Monday night and held discussions lasting nearly six hours with the party high command. Sources indicated that Rahul Gandhi urged Siddaramaiah to step down and offered him a Rajya Sabha seat along with an important national role in Delhi.

The Chief Minister, who initially showed reluctance, is understood to have eventually agreed to the party's decision after consultations with his supporters. He has reportedly called his ministers for a breakfast meeting on Thursday morning, where the resignation is likely to be formalised.

Venugopal Dismisses Speculation

However, Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal, who was present in the meeting, downplayed the reports. "The speculations are only speculations. There is no truth in them. The meeting discussed Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections," he said.

Despite the official denial, ground reports and sources close to the developments suggest a clear push for change.

Power-Sharing Formula Comes into Play

The leadership churn traces back to the 2023 assembly elections when Congress formed the government in Karnataka. Supporters of DK Shivakumar have long claimed an informal understanding of a two-and-a-half-year power-sharing formula. The government completed 2.5 years in November 2025, intensifying the demand for a transition.

Siddaramaiah, the party's prominent OBC face and AHINDA leader, has enjoyed strong support among a large section of MLAs. Sources say he had earlier warned that any forced removal could lead to a split, with 50-60 legislators potentially backing him. He is also believed to have stated that he would not work under Shivakumar.

Strategy for 2028 Polls

Congress appears keen to manage the transition carefully to avoid rebellion and prepare for the 2028 assembly elections. Siddaramaiah will turn 80 by then, and the party hopes a fresh face could help counter anti-incumbency. There are indications that Siddaramaiah's son could be accommodated in the cabinet as part of the settlement.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is also understood to have backed the leadership change during the Delhi meeting.

Mixed Reactions Within Party

The power tussle has been simmering for over a year. While Shivakumar's camp points to the rotational arrangement, Siddaramaiah's loyalists have consistently denied any such deal. In recent months, both leaders maintained a public show of unity even as differences persisted on cabinet expansion and other issues.

Shivakumar, a powerful Vokkaliga leader credited with strengthening the party organisation, has positioned himself as the natural successor. Siddaramaiah, on the other hand, has been credited with several welfare initiatives during his tenure.

As of Wednesday evening, the situation remained fluid. A Congress Legislature Party meeting is expected soon after the resignation to formally elect the new leader.

Political observers note that the change could bring new energy to the government but also carries risks of internal unrest if not handled delicately. Karnataka remains crucial for Congress in the south, and the party will be keen to ensure stability ahead of future electoral battles.

The coming days are likely to witness hectic political activity in Bengaluru as the transition unfolds.

EC Announces Rajya Sabha Polls for 24 Seats on June 18

The Election Commission of India on Friday announced that elections to 24 Rajya Sabha seats from 10 states will be held on June 18. The move comes as 24 sitting members, including Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Digvijaya Singh, are set to retire between June 21 and July 19. Nominations can be filed till June 8.

The announcement sets the stage for a fresh round of indirect elections to the Upper House, where members are chosen by elected representatives of state assemblies rather than directly by voters.

Key States and Vacancies

Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Karnataka will each see polls for four seats. Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan will elect three members each, while Jharkhand will fill three seats. Single seats will be up for grabs in Manipur, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.

Among the prominent faces retiring are former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda from Karnataka and several other senior leaders across parties. The list of retiring MPs includes names like Ayodhya Rami Reddy Alla and Parimal Nathwani from Andhra Pradesh, and George Kurian and Sumer Singh Solanki from Madhya Pradesh.

How the Process Works

Unlike Lok Sabha or assembly elections, Rajya Sabha polls follow a system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote. The value of each MLA’s vote is fixed based on the strength of the state legislative assembly and the number of seats going to polls. 

Each MLA’s vote carries a value of 100 in the calculation. This method ensures that larger parties usually secure most seats in line with their strength in the respective assemblies. However, cross-voting and strategic alliances sometimes throw up surprises.

Political Significance

The upcoming elections hold importance for the Congress party, which is seeing several senior leaders step down from the Upper House. Mallikarjun Kharge’s seat from Karnataka and Digvijaya Singh’s from Madhya Pradesh will particularly be watched closely as both leaders continue to play influential roles in national politics.

The results will also reflect the current ground realities in these states following recent assembly elections and shifts in political equations. Parties will now begin intense calculations to finalise candidates and manage their numbers in the assemblies.

Timeline and Preparations

With polling scheduled for June 18, the Election Commission has set a tight schedule. The last date for withdrawal of candidatures is expected to be around June 10, though official notification is awaited. Counting of votes is likely to take place on the same day as polling or shortly after.

State election authorities have already been directed to make necessary arrangements. Security and logistical preparations for the smooth conduct of these elections are expected to begin soon.

Impact on Upper House Composition

The Rajya Sabha, with a total strength of 245 members, sees one-third of its elected members retiring every two years. Of the 233 elected seats, these 24 vacancies represent a significant batch. The 12 nominated members, appointed by the President, remain unaffected by this exercise.

As political parties gear up for candidate selection, the focus will be on balancing experience, regional representation and loyalty. The outcome will influence the strength of various parties in the Upper House, where debates on key legislation often play out.

The Election Commission’s timely announcement gives parties enough window to strategise while maintaining the constitutional schedule for the continuous functioning of the Rajya Sabha.

CONGRESS SET TO ANNOUNCE KERALA CM AS VENUGOPAL EMERGES FRONTRUNNER

Rahul backs Venugopal; party asserts democratic process

Congress is moving closer to naming its chief ministerial face in Kerala, with Alappuzha MP KC Venugopal emerging as Rahul Gandhi's preferred choice after a one-on-one meeting in Delhi. The party, which returned to power in the state after a decade-long gap, has faced mounting pressure to announce its CM within days of the election results.

Six days have elapsed since Kerala voters handed Congress a decisive mandate—63 of 140 assembly seats, enough for a comfortable majority. Yet the post remains vacant as the party navigates an internal selection process that has drawn both support and scrutiny from multiple quarters.

VENUGOPAL CONSOLIDATES SUPPORT AMONG LEGISLATORS

Ground reports indicate Venugopal has secured backing from approximately 75–80 percent of Congress' 63 MLAs, a clear indication of his strength within the legislative wing. A photograph that circulated on social media showed Kerala Congress President Sunny Joseph, Sandeep G Varier, Sajeev Joseph, T.O. Mohan, and Usha Vijayan backing his candidacy at a May 9 meeting held at Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's Delhi residence.

Party insiders familiar with the developments suggested a pragmatic arrangement should Venugopal assume office. Sunny Joseph, who won from Irikkur, may step down from his assembly seat, clearing the way for Venugopal to contest and secure an MLA position—a constitutional requirement for the chief minister's post. The move reflects careful political choreography within the Congress, balancing factional interests while ensuring legislative strength remains intact.

CHALLENGE FROM SATHEESAN CAMP

V.D. Satheesan, the other key contender, drew support from only six MLAs in the initial May 9 meeting. However, his position gained traction following the gathering, with three former state Congress presidents publicly backing his candidacy. Additionally, key UDF allies—the Indian Union Muslim League and Kerala Congress (Joseph)—have openly supported Satheesan's claims.

This bifurcation highlights underlying organisational tensions, though Congress leadership has maintained that the final decision rests with the party hierarchy rather than a simple MLAs' count.

CONGRESS REJECTS BJP MODEL

Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala seized the opportunity to draw contrasts with the ruling BJP, asserting the party's commitment to democratic processes. "In the Congress party, the CM is chosen democratically. We do not have a system where Modi and Shah take all the decisions," Chennithala said, in an apparent reference to how the national ruling party handles such selections.

The statement underscores Congress' attempt to position itself as ideologically distinct, particularly as regional dynamics shift across India following recent assembly elections.

BROADER REGIONAL SHIFTS

Meanwhile, three southern and eastern states have witnessed chief ministerial changes within the past 48 hours, signalling a significant realignment of regional politics.

In Tamil Nadu, actor-turned-politician C Joseph Vijay, chief of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), became the ninth CM after his party secured 108 of 234 seats. Vijay's government will rely on additional support from Congress, Left, IUML, and VCK MLAs to reach the required 118-seat majority. During his oath ceremony, Vijay notably departed from prescribed remarks, prompting Governor Arlekar to intervene.

West Bengal witnessed a historic milestone when Suvendu Adhikari became the BJP's first Chief Minister. Adhikari was sworn in on May 9 following the party's decisive 207-294 seat victory. The ceremony was attended by 20 chief ministers from NDA-ruled states, underscoring the BJP's organised show of strength.

NORTHEAST DEVELOPMENTS

In Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, re-elected as BJP legislative party leader, will take oath for his second consecutive term as Chief Minister on May 12 at 11 am. The state witnessed a consolidation of NDA strength in recent elections.

Puducherry is also set for a leadership change, with N. Ramaswamy scheduled to take oath on May 13.

Congress officials indicated an announcement on the Kerala CM post is imminent, though they have refrained from specifying an exact timeline. The party's deliberate pace contrasts sharply with the swift transitions witnessed in neighbouring states, reflecting its traditional emphasis on consensus-building within the party structure.

Congress Returns to Power in Kerala After 10 Years; Thalapathy Vijay’s TVK Emerges as Single Largest Party in Tamil Nadu

In a dramatic reshaping of India’s political map, the Congress-led United Democratic Front has returned to power in Kerala after a decade, while actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has emerged as the single largest party in Tamil Nadu, securing 107 of the 234 seats. Meanwhile, the BJP has consolidated its hold in Assam, and the All India N.R. Congress (AINRC) has retained power in Puducherry, leading to a complex political realignment in these four regions.

Kerala: Congress-led UDF Storms to Power

Kerala voters have delivered a resounding mandate for the Congress-led UDF, ending the Left Democratic Front’s (LDF) 10-year rule. The UDF has won 102 of the 140 seats, far surpassing the required 71 for a majority. The Congress alone secured 63 seats, with its allies—the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), Communist Party of India (CPI), and Kerala Congress factions—adding 39 more. The LDF, led by the CPI(M), has been reduced to 26 seats, marking a significant setback for the Left in the state.

The victory is attributed to a wave of anti-incumbency against Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, whose government faced criticism over economic mismanagement, high unemployment, and corruption scandals. Despite maintaining strict law-and-order, voters have signaled a desire for change by rejecting the status quo. The UDF’s win is historic, as it is the first time in over five decades that no Left government remains in power in India, with the Left already ousted from Bengal and Tripura in recent years.

Tamil Nadu: TVK’s Superstar Debut

Vijay’s TVK has made a sensational electoral debut in Tamil Nadu, triumphing in the 234-member Assembly elections as the single largest party with 107 seats—just 11 shy of an outright majority. The party’s vote share is approximately 34.86%, significantly outpacing the DMK at 24.19% and the AIADMK at 21.35%. The DMK, now in second place with 59 seats, faces the loss of its leader and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin in the Kolathur stronghold, defeated by TVK’s V.S. Babu by 8,795 votes in a major upset.

The victory is fueled by widespread discontent with the DMK and AIADMK’s dynastic politics, rising unemployment, and agricultural distress. TVK, launched by Vijay in 2022 to address corruption and inequality, has attracted urban youth and marginal farmers. The party’s narrative of “change” resonates amid the 10% unemployment rate and 15% inflation in the state. Stalin’s consolation prize election from Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni—by a narrow margin—highlights the party’s humility, but TVK now leads in government formation talks, likely requiring Congress support.

Assam: BJP Considers Saataval

In Assam, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has cemented its dominance, winning 82 of the 126 seats—surpassing the 64 majority mark—on a 38.35% vote share. The Congress has slipped to 19 seats with 29.34%, while allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) secure 10 each, and the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) takes 2. This victory extends the BJP’s rule to a third term, driven by infrastructure development, job creation, and welfare schemes.

Puducherry: NDA Retains with AINRC Edge

The NDA retained power in Puducherry, with AINRC leading the 30-member Assembly with 12 seats, followed by AIADMK and BJP at 6 and 4 respectively. The DMK and Congress each hold 5 and 1, with TVK winning 2 and independents securing 3. This balance reflects the region’s diversity and coalition dynamics.

Public Impact and Future Outlook

The results signal a national shift toward regional discontent with entrenched parties, favoring fresh faces like Vijay’s TVK and Congress’s resurgence in Kerala. The UDF’s win in Kerala promises anti-corruption drives and social welfare reforms, while TVK’s rise in Tamil Nadu may force alliances with Congress for a stable government. Assam’s BJP victory underscores nostalgia for 2022’s “Saffron Wave,” though Opposition parties may regroup in the next 2026 elections.

A political controversy erupted on Tuesday after Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge allegedly referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “terrorist” during an election rally in Chennai. The remark, made days before voting in Tamil Nadu, triggered sharp reactions from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), escalating tensions in an already heated campaign.

The comment quickly became a flashpoint in the Tamil Nadu Assembly election narrative, drawing widespread criticism and prompting a clarification from Kharge later in the day.

What Kharge Said

Addressing a gathering in Chennai, Kharge questioned the alliance between AIADMK and BJP, reportedly stating that parties aligning with Prime Minister Modi were weakening democratic values. In the course of his speech, he used strong language that the BJP interpreted as branding the Prime Minister a “terrorist”.

The Congress leader also alleged that the ruling government does not believe in equality and justice, remarks that further sharpened the political divide.

BJP Hits Back Hard

The BJP reacted swiftly, condemning the statement as “deeply irresponsible” and “insulting to the electorate”. Union Minister Piyush Goyal accused the Congress and its ally DMK of lowering the level of political discourse.

According to party leaders, such remarks not only target the Prime Minister but also disrespect voters who elected him. BJP representatives demanded an apology from senior Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and DMK chief M.K. Stalin.

Officials indicated that the controversy could influence voter sentiment in the final phase of campaigning.

Election Context Matters

The remarks come at a crucial juncture, with Tamil Nadu set to vote on April 23. The state is witnessing a closely contested battle between the DMK-Congress alliance and the AIADMK-BJP coalition.

Campaigning reached its peak this week, with top leaders from all major parties holding rallies across the state. Political observers note that rhetoric often intensifies in the final days before polling, but personal attacks tend to draw sharper scrutiny.

Kharge Issues Clarification

Facing mounting criticism, Kharge later clarified his statement, denying that he directly called the Prime Minister a terrorist. He said his comments were taken out of context and were meant to criticise the functioning of central agencies.

Kharge alleged that institutions like the CBI, Enforcement Directorate, and Income Tax Department were being misused to intimidate opposition leaders and candidates. He maintained that his remarks referred to this alleged climate of fear, not to any individual.

Sources within the Congress indicated that the party aimed to shift focus back to governance and policy issues after the clarification.

Political Impact Emerging

The controversy has added a new dimension to the Tamil Nadu election campaign. Analysts suggest that such remarks may consolidate support among core voters on both sides, while also influencing undecided voters.

The BJP has sought to frame the issue as an example of opposition parties resorting to personal attacks instead of addressing governance. Meanwhile, the Congress and its allies are attempting to pivot the narrative toward institutional accountability. As per reports, campaign messaging in the final hours is likely to reflect this clash of narratives.

What Lies Ahead

With campaigning set to end shortly, all parties are focusing on last-mile voter outreach. The Election Commission is expected to monitor statements closely to ensure adherence to the Model Code of Conduct.

The outcome of the Tamil Nadu polls will not only shape state politics but also carry implications for national alliances ahead of future elections.

Senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi remains admitted at a Delhi hospital after being diagnosed with a stomach and urinary infection, prompting her son and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to stay overnight at her bedside.

According to officials, she was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital late Tuesday night. Doctors have been closely monitoring her condition, which is reported to be stable.

Rahul Gandhi’s Vigil

Rahul Gandhi has been personally attending to his mother during her hospital stay. In a video message shared on social media, he said he spent the night sleeping on a small sofa inside her hospital room.

He described his concern as “natural for any son” but added that the attentive care provided by a nurse from Kerala brought him reassurance during the night.

Praise for Nurse

Highlighting the role of healthcare workers, Rahul Gandhi spoke about the dedication of the Kerala nurse who checked on Sonia Gandhi every hour through the night.

He noted that her presence and compassion reflected the broader contribution of nurses from Kerala, not only in India but globally. “When the world sleeps, they continue working and comforting patients,” he said, calling it part of Kerala’s identity.

Political Schedule Impact

Sonia Gandhi’s hospitalisation has also affected Rahul Gandhi’s political engagements. He skipped an all-party meeting held at Parliament on Wednesday to remain at the hospital.

His planned visit to Kerala for election campaigning was cancelled. Instead, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge represented the party at the meeting, while Rahul addressed supporters virtually.

Kerala Campaign Remarks

Despite the disruption, Rahul Gandhi continued his outreach to voters in Kerala through a virtual address. He criticised both the BJP-led Centre and the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in the state over employment issues.

He alleged that promises of job creation had not been fulfilled and questioned the accountability of both governments. He also raised concerns over selective action by central agencies against opposition leaders.

Welfare Promises Outlined

During his address, Rahul Gandhi outlined several welfare measures promised by the Congress for Kerala. These included free bus travel for women, financial assistance for college-going girls, and an increase in welfare pensions.

He also mentioned plans for expanded health insurance coverage, interest-free loans for youth, and the creation of a dedicated department for senior citizens.

What Lies Ahead

Meanwhile, Sonia Gandhi’s health remains under observation, with doctors expected to decide on her discharge based on her recovery. Congress leaders have not indicated any immediate changes to her public schedule.

The development comes at a crucial time as political activity intensifies ahead of Assembly elections in multiple states, with results expected in early May.

Rahul Gandhi’s continued presence at the hospital underscores the personal nature of the situation even as political responsibilities remain pressing, making the Sonia Gandhi hospitalisation a closely watched development in both political and public spheres.