Robert Vadra gets bail in ₹58 crore land deal money laundering case

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court grants bail to Robert Vadra on ₹50,000 surety; businessman slams ED, claiming federal agency acts on central government's orders.

In a major legal development, Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Saturday granted bail to businessman Robert Vadra in a money laundering case linked to the controversial 2008 Shikohpur land deal scam in Gurugram.

Special Judge Sushant Changotra granted the relief to Vadra upon furnishing a bail bond of ₹50,000 and one surety of the like amount. Vadra, who is the husband of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, appeared in person before the court on Saturday morning in response to summons issued to him last month. The central probe agency had filed its prosecution complaint under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) without arresting him during the investigation stage.

No extra conditions imposed by court

During the brief courtroom proceedings, the court clarified that no additional restrictions or conditions were being placed on the businessman while granting bail. “I am asking to file a bail bond, not any other considerations,” the special judge observed.

Representing the federal anti-money laundering agency online, ED counsel Zoheb Hossain informed the bench that a formal status report was being filed. The agency requested a two-week window to submit a more comprehensive status report, noting that further layers of the transaction are still being investigated. The court subsequently listed the matter for further hearing on July 10.

Agency acting on government orders: Vadra

Speaking to reporters outside the court complex shortly after securing relief, Vadra maintained his innocence and launched a scathing attack on the federal agency. He alleged that the ongoing legal offensive is politically motivated.

"I believe in the judicial system of the country. I know the Enforcement Directorate is being managed by the Government and the ED will keep on going on the instructions of the Government. I have nothing to hide. I am always going to be here and answer all the questions," Vadra said, describing himself as "fearless."

Roots of the 2008 Shikohpur deal

The political and legal storm traces back to February 2008, when Vadra’s firm, Skylight Hospitality Private Limited, bought 3.5 acres of land in Shikohpur village, Gurugram, from Omkareshwar Properties for ₹7.5 crore.

The transaction occurred during the tenure of the Congress government in Haryana, led by then Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda. Shortly after the purchase, the Hooda administration granted a commercial colony development licence for the land. Within months, Skylight Hospitality sold the same parcel of land to real estate giant DLF for ₹58 crore, netting a profit of roughly ₹50 crore.

Mutation cancellation and subsequent FIR

The deal first ran into official headwinds in 2012 when whistleblower IAS officer Ashok Khemka, then serving as the Director of Land Registration in Haryana, cancelled the land mutation. Khemka flagged severe procedural irregularities, alleging that rules were bypassed to fast-track the commercial licence.

Six years later, in September 2018, the Haryana Police registered a comprehensive criminal case against Vadra, Hooda, DLF, and Omkareshwar Properties under various sections of the IPC, including fraud, forgery, and criminal conspiracy. The ED subsequently stepped in, initiating a parallel PMLA probe based on the police FIR to track the alleged "proceeds of crime."

Allegations of systemic irregularities

The ED’s prosecution complaint alleges that the initial ₹7.5 crore payment was a sham, asserting that the cheque cited in the sale deed was never actually encashed. The agency suspects Omkareshwar Properties functioned as a shell entity.

Furthermore, investigators allege that the Hooda administration tailored policies to favor DLF, citing a separate 350-acre land allocation in Wazirabad through which the developer allegedly reaped windfall gains worth ₹5,000 crore. While Vadra has moved the Delhi High Court challenging the trial court's decision to take cognisance of the ED chargesheet—a matter slated for hearing on May 18—Saturday's bail order ensures immediate relief from arrest for the high-profile businessman.

‘Compromised PM no longer capable’: Rahul says ‘don’t buy gold’ advice is proof of Modi govt’s failure

 Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp counterattack on Monday against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent “seven appeals” to the public, arguing that asking citizens to cut back on gold, travel, and cooking oil was not sound advice but an admission of the government’s own economic mismanagement.

In a post on X, Gandhi said the Prime Minister appeared “compromised” and no longer capable of running the country.

“Yesterday, Modi ji asked the public to make sacrifices—don’t buy gold, don’t travel abroad, use less petrol, reduce consumption of fertilisers and cooking oil, take the metro, work from home. These are not suggestions. These are failures,” Gandhi wrote.

He added that after 12 years in power, the government had reached a point where the Prime Minister had to tell people what to buy, what not to buy, where to go, and where not to go.

PM’s Secunderabad pitch

The exchange began on Sunday. Speaking at a rally in Secunderabad, PM Modi had stressed the need to reduce dependence on imports to save foreign exchange. He listed seven specific asks: reduce petrol and diesel use, promote work-from-home models, cut down on edible oil consumption, halve chemical fertiliser use, postpone non-essential foreign travel, and avoid buying or donating gold for one year.

Officials said the appeals were prompted by rising global prices due to conflicts in West Asia. India, which does not have large domestic oil reserves, remains vulnerable.

Opposition piles on

But opposition parties quickly rejected the narrative. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh claimed the economic situation was far more serious than official figures suggested. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said the BJP had failed on both the economy and foreign policy.

“As soon as elections ended, the government suddenly remembered a ‘crisis’. In reality, there is only one crisis for the country, and its name is BJP,” Yadav said.

Trinamool Congress MP Saket Gokhale questioned why ordinary citizens were being asked to make sacrifices while ministers continued using Air Force aircraft and large convoys. He also asked why the announcements came only after several state elections had concluded.

The numbers behind the appeal

Government data and industry reports show why foreign exchange outflows have become a concern.

Annual gold expenditure has crossed ₹6 lakh crore, up from ₹4.89 lakh crore in 2024–25. The World Gold Council noted that in the first quarter of 2026, investment demand for gold in India surpassed jewellery demand for the first time.

Indians spent ₹3.65 lakh crore on foreign travel in 2025–26, a sharp rise from ₹2.72 lakh crore in 2023–24.

Fertiliser imports touched ₹1.50 lakh crore this year, a 76 per cent jump. A significant portion comes from Qatar, making supplies vulnerable to regional instability. Prices have remained elevated as a result.

Crude oil, however, remains the biggest drain. India imports nearly 70 per cent of its requirements. While the oil import bill declined to ₹10.35 lakh crore in 2025–26 from ₹11.66 lakh crore the previous year, crude prices have surged nearly 50 per cent in the past two months. Sources familiar with the matter said the bill could climb to ₹17 lakh crore if the conflict widens.

What happens now

For now, the political battle lines are clear. The government argues it is preparing the public for hard choices in the national interest. The opposition sees an administration struggling to shield the economy from global shocks.

Rahul Gandhi ended his post with a pointed remark: “A compromised PM cannot fix this. A failed govt cannot ask for more sacrifices.” The Prime Minister’s Office has not issued a direct response.

Clash breaks out between Congress, DMK workers in Mayiladuthurai

A physical altercation broke out between supporters of the Congress and the DMK in Tamil Nadu’s Mayiladuthurai town on Friday morning, adding a volatile edge to an already fluid political situation in the state. The scuffle, which lasted nearly 15 minutes, reportedly began over sloganeering outside a local party office. Police personnel intervened and dispersed the crowds. No formal complaints had been filed by late afternoon.

The clash comes at a time when the state capital Chennai is witnessing intense political realignments following an inconclusive assembly election verdict.

TVK threatens mass resignation over rival alliance

Suspense continues over whether actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) will be able to form the government. TVK has now issued a sharp warning: if the DMK and AIADMK — traditional rivals — come together to stake a claim, all TVK MLAs will resign from the House.

“Both Dravidian parties are attempting to sideline the single largest party. This is a conspiracy against public mandate,” a TVK functionary told reporters outside the party headquarters in Chennai.

According to sources aware of the developments, two meetings between DMK and AIADMK camps over the past 48 hours have fuelled speculation that a joint bid for power is being explored.

Governor’s stand, protests outside Raj Bhavan

Governor Rajendra Arlekar on Thursday rejected TVK chief Vijay’s claim to form the government for the second time, asking him to return with signatures of 118 MLAs to prove majority. However, the Governor has assured Vijay that no other party would be invited to form the government in the meantime.

On Friday morning, TVK supporters demonstrated outside Lok Bhavan, the Governor’s residence, raising slogans accusing the Governor of delaying the formation process. Police detained several protesters, who were released later in the day.

28 AIADMK MLAs shifted to Puducherry resort

In a significant development, 28 AIADMK MLAs — believed to be supporters of senior leader C.V. Shanmugam — have been lodged at a resort in Puducherry. The move is seen as an effort to prevent poaching attempts.

TVK chief Vijay currently needs six more MLAs to reach the majority mark. Sources indicate that talks are underway between TVK and the rebel AIADMK faction over portfolio allocations, including the deputy chief minister’s post. AIADMK general secretary Edappadi Palaniswami, however, is said to be opposed to any such understanding.

DMK passes four resolutions, targets Congress

At its legislative party meeting, the DMK passed four resolutions: thanking the people and allies, praising party president MK Stalin, authorising Stalin to take all necessary decisions, and — notably — criticising the Congress for breaking away from the Secular Progressive Alliance.

“Despite receiving one Rajya Sabha seat and 28 assembly seats under the DMK alliance, the Congress chose to part ways within days. This reveals their old political character,” a DMK resolution stated.

Public reactions, political uncertainty continues

Outside Vijay’s residence in Chennai, a young fan told reporters, “I want to see Vijay become Chief Minister.” Meanwhile, AIADMK MP M Thambidurai said public sentiment was in favour of his party returning to power.

CPI MP P Sandosh Kumar maintained that the single largest party must be invited to form the government. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah also backed Vijay’s claim.

With the Governor yet to take a final call, and no party crossing the majority mark on its own, Tamil Nadu remains in a political limbo. All eyes are now on whether the DMK-AIADMK alliance materialises — and whether TVK follows through on its resignation threat.

NSUI to Gherao CM House in Raipur Demanding Student Union Polls

NSUI gears up for CM House protest as student union elections emerge as political flashpoint in Chhattisgarh

The National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) is set to lay siege to the Chief Minister’s residence here this afternoon at 4 PM, pressing for the immediate restoration of student union elections in universities and colleges across Chhattisgarh. The protest comes amid growing demands from student outfits to revive a democratic process that has remained suspended for years.

Senior leaders from both Congress and BJP camps have voiced support for holding the polls, even as they traded charges over the prolonged delay.

Cross-party consensus with political barbs

Conversations with established politicians and young faces in Raipur’s political scene reveal broad agreement on the need for student elections, though accompanied by sharp finger-pointing.

Congress veteran and former Raipur mayor Pramod Dubey described student union polls as the “primary school of leadership.” He emphasised that campus elections nurture administrative skills, organisational abilities, and democratic values among the youth. Many prominent state and national leaders, he noted, began their journey through student politics.

Dubey acknowledged that preparations were underway during the previous Congress regime under Bhupesh Baghel but were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. “The situation did not permit it then,” he said.

BJP leaders push for regular polls

BJP leader and active municipal figure Mrityunjay Dubey strongly backed the conduct of elections as a healthy democratic tradition. He highlighted that elected student representatives are best placed to take up issues related to admissions, examinations, results, and academic facilities with the administration.

“When an 18-year-old can vote to elect panch, sarpanch, councillor, MLA, MP, CM, and even the Prime Minister, why should he or she be denied the right to choose representatives in their own college?” Dubey asked.

He, however, questioned the timing of NSUI’s aggressive push, asking why the issue was not pursued seriously during Congress rule.Youth leaders spar over intent and timing,

Prakhar Mishra, former president of Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University (PTRSU) student union and ex-state minister of BJYM, affirmed his organisation’s consistent support for student polls. He argued that such elections provide opportunities to youth from poor and middle-class families, improve the education environment, and produce grounded leadership.

Yet Mishra accused NSUI of political opportunism. “ABVP has traditionally dominated these elections and NSUI has not tasted much success. Now raising the demand looks like a political stunt,” he remarked.

NSUI’s Raipur district president Shantanu Jha countered by citing the pandemic. “From 2019 to 2022 the country was battling COVID. Health was the priority and elections were put on hold. As soon as normalcy returned, we began pushing for them,” he said.

Jha claimed that had Congress returned to power, the polls would have been conducted. He challenged other parties: “If it did not happen then, let it happen now. We extend our full support.”

Background of the demand

Student union elections in Chhattisgarh have been stalled since the Baghel government’s tenure, largely due to the pandemic and subsequent administrative delays. NSUI has intensified its campaign in recent weeks, submitting memorandums in over 250 colleges and staging protests at PTRSU and other campuses.

On Tuesday, NSUI workers led by PTRSU unit president Puneshwar Lahre submitted a memorandum to the registrar, proctor, and DSW of the university, warning of stronger agitation if demands are not met.

The issue resonates strongly with students who argue that elected bodies can better address day-to-day academic grievances compared to nominated representatives.

What lies ahead

With both major parties’ representatives endorsing the principle of student elections, the focus now shifts to the state government’s response to today’s gherao. Political observers say the protest could set the tone for how quickly the administration moves on the long-pending demand.

As evening approaches, NSUI activists are expected to gather in significant numbers, turning the spotlight once again on campus democracy in Chhattisgarh. Whether today’s demonstration yields concrete assurances or leads to further escalation remains to be seen.

Post-Election Turmoil in Bengal, Political Realignments in Tamil Nadu as Congress Backs TVK

TMC offices attacked across West Bengal as security personnel injured in firing; Congress extends support to Vijay-led TVK for government formation in Tamil Nadu

Violence Erupts in Bengal After Election Results

Post-election violence has gripped several parts of West Bengal, with attacks on Trinamool Congress offices and security personnel reported from multiple districts.

In the Bamangheri area of Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas district, miscreants opened fire on a patrol team comprising police and central forces late Wednesday night. Five security personnel were injured in the attack, including the officer-in-charge of Nazat police station, a constable, a woman police officer, and two CRPF personnel. All injured were initially taken to Minakhan Rural Hospital before being referred to Kolkata for advanced treatment.

Security agencies recovered a bag filled with bombs from the spot during subsequent investigation.

TMC Office Bulldozed in Kolkata

In Kolkata’s New Market area, a mob used a bulldozer to demolish a TMC party office, also damaging nearby shops. The TMC shared video footage of the incident on X, claiming that BJP’s “parivartan” has arrived and brought bulldozers with it.

Similar attacks were reported from Jagatballavpur, Howrah, Siliguri, and Berhampore, where TMC offices were set on fire or vandalised. In South 24 Parganas, stones were thrown at the office of TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

Security has been withdrawn from Abhishek Banerjee’s Kolkata residence ‘Shantiniketan’, with visuals showing an empty security post outside the premises.

A BJP worker, Madhu Mandal, died after being beaten in New Town area, police confirmed. Meanwhile, TMC leader Abir Sheikh was found with his throat slit in Birbhum district.

The Election Commission has directed strict action against those involved in violence and ordered enhanced patrolling across affected areas.

Congress Backs TVK for Government Formation in Tamil Nadu

In a significant political development, the Congress party has decided to support TVK chief Vijay in his bid to form the government in Tamil Nadu.

A late-night emergency meeting of the Tamil Nadu Congress Political Affairs Committee was held online Tuesday, with senior leaders from Delhi participating. The decision to support Vijay was taken unanimously.

Congress stated that the mandate in Tamil Nadu favours a secular government, and the party will not allow the BJP or its allies to come to power under any circumstances.

TVK Lodges 108 MLAs at Hotel, Needs 10 More

TVK has lodged its 108 MLAs-elect at a hotel in Chengalpattu, Mahabalipuram, as it seeks support from other parties to reach the majority mark of 118 in the 234-member assembly.

Congress has 5 MLAs, while PMK has 4. CPI and CPI(M) have won 2 seats each. DMK has secured 59 seats and AIADMK 47 seats. Vijay had earlier sought Congress support, and the party’s backing gives him 113 MLAs, still five short of majority.

DMK Criticises Congress, AIADMK Keeps Options Open

DMK spokesperson T K S Elangovan criticised Congress for backing TVK, calling it “backstabbing” and warning that such political moves could further weaken the party nationally.

“Congress is making similar alliances in many states but is losing ground everywhere,” Elangovan said.

AIADMK national spokesperson Kovai Sathyan said the decision now rests with TVK chief Vijay. AIADMK leader CV Shanmugam indicated the party would take a decision on supporting TVK after internal discussions.

Kerala CM Race Heats Up

In Kerala, where the Congress-led UDF alliance has emerged victorious, a tussle has begun over the chief minister selection. Three names are under discussion: Opposition leader VD Satheesan, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala.

CPI-M leader and outgoing chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has reached the party office for a meeting to review election results.

BJP Leads in Bengal and Assam Polls, Madhya Pradesh Celebrations Erupt

BJP workers in Bhopal and Ujjain celebrate early trends from Bengal and Assam assembly elections with traditional Jhal Mudi and drum beats as party offices turn into festive hubs.

Early trends from the assembly elections in five states have given the BJP a significant edge in West Bengal and Assam, triggering joyous scenes at the party’s state headquarters in Bhopal and the Bengali colony in Ujjain on Monday afternoon.

Within minutes of the initial counting figures, supporters began gathering at the BJP provincial office here. The mood quickly turned festive with workers distributing and relishing Jhal Mudi, the popular Bengali snack, while others arranged for fireworks. Senior leaders were seen personally serving the snack to cadres, blending political optimism with cultural warmth.

Office Turns into Celebration Ground

BJP state president Hemant Khandelwal addressed the gathering and spoke to Dainik Bhaskar, saying the Congress has virtually disappeared from the country’s political map. In a lighter vein, he told workers that Jhal Mudi was not new to him because of his in-laws in Kolkata. The remark drew loud cheers from the crowd.

Party workers danced to the beats of drums as leaders exchanged garlands and congratulated each other. Firecrackers were brought in and bursts of celebration echoed outside the office premises. Local reporters present at the spot described the atmosphere as electric, with cadres pouring in steadily.

Ujjain’s Bengali Colony Joins the Festivities

The celebrations were not limited to Bhopal. In Ujjain’s Bengali colony, women blew conch shells in traditional style to mark the positive trends from Bengal. Under the presence of newly appointed authority chairman Ravi Solanki, women performed collective celebrations. Some were seen dancing to the rhythmic beats of the Dhol, expressing joy over the reported BJP performance in their ancestral state.

The scenes reflected the strong emotional connect many Bengali families in Madhya Pradesh maintain with West Bengal’s politics.

Leaders Hail End of ‘Jungle Raj’

Senior BJP leaders in the state welcomed the early trends. Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda said the development signals the end of jungle raj in Bengal. Minister Gautam Tetwal added that the state has now become free from “Didi’s terror,” referring to Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee.

These statements reflect the aggressive campaign narrative the BJP had adopted in the eastern states.

Multi-State Electoral Battle

Results are being declared for 824 assembly seats across West Bengal (294), Tamil Nadu (234), Kerala (140), Assam (126) and Puducherry (30). In West Bengal, the contest was primarily between BJP and Trinamool Congress, while in Assam it was largely BJP versus Congress-led alliances. Other states witnessed multi-cornered fights involving regional heavyweights like DMK, AIADMK, LDF and UDF.

The BJP had deployed a large number of senior leaders from Madhya Pradesh for campaigning in Bengal and Tamil Nadu as part of its national outreach strategy. The party contested most seats in alliance with local partners, aiming to expand its footprint in non-traditional areas.

Background and Significance

The early leads in Bengal and Assam are being seen by party workers as validation of the BJP’s sustained efforts to challenge entrenched regional powers. Congress, on the other hand, is struggling to make its presence felt in most of these states according to initial indications.

For Madhya Pradesh BJP units, the developments carry extra significance as many local leaders and workers had invested time and energy in supporting campaigns in these states. The spontaneous celebrations involving traditional Bengali elements like Jhal Mudi also highlight the party’s attempt to build an inclusive cultural connect.

As counting progresses, all eyes remain on whether the early trends convert into decisive mandates. Party offices in Bhopal are expected to remain centres of activity through the evening, with more leaders likely to join the rank and file in marking the occasion.

The coming hours will determine if today’s celebrations turn into a larger victory party or remain a show of early confidence. For now, the mood in BJP circles in Madhya Pradesh is unmistakably upbeat.

Chhattisgarh Assembly Sees Heated Exchanges Over 33% Women's Reservation

A special session of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly turned into a war of words on Wednesday after the state government tabled a resolution demanding 33 per cent reservation for women in Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha following the delimitation exercise. While the ruling BJP called it a historic step towards women's empowerment, the opposition Congress dismissed it as an "election gimmick".

The session began with the government moving the official resolution. Over 500 women public representatives from municipalities, corporations and panchayats across the state had been invited to witness the proceedings. But before the debate could pick up steam, the two sides were already at each other's throats.

Congress Calls Reservation a 'Poll Stunt'

Leader of Opposition Dr. Charan Das Mahant tried to bring an unofficial resolution on women's empowerment, but Speaker Dr. Raman Singh declared it inadmissible. Soon after, Congress legislator Anila Bhedia launched a scathing attack on the government.

"This reservation bill is nothing but an election jhunjhuna (rattle)," Bhedia said inside the House. "The bill was passed in 2023 but was never implemented. The BJP is at the centre, but they don't have the courage to give 33 per cent reservation on 543 Lok Sabha seats." She accused the ruling party of humiliating women while pretending to stand up for their rights.

Deputy CM Hits Back Over Promises

The debate quickly turned personal and loud. After Bhedia raised the issue of crimes against women, including the rape of a three-year-old girl in the state, Deputy Chief Minister Arun Saw responded sharply.

"Congress promised to give Rs 500 to women in their manifesto. What face do they have to talk about women's rights today?" Saw said, his voice rising. He also took a dig at the opposition for raising the women's reservation issue while allegedly doing little for their safety when they were in power. The back-and-forth continued for several minutes, with members from both sides interrupting each other.

'We Gave Maximum Opportunities', Claims Opposition

Amid the chaos, Congress legislators pointed to their own record, claiming they had actually given more political space to women than the BJP. Numbers were thrown across the aisle. According to figures cited by opposition members, the BJP has just 8 women MLAs out of 54, while Congress has 11 women legislators out of 35.

"The Congress party has truly provided opportunities to women. You cannot take that away from us," a Congress member said, triggering loud protests from the treasury benches. Women legislators from both sides got into a heated argument over who had done more.

 From Cylinder Prices to Women's Safety

The discussion also drifted to household issues like cooking gas prices. Congress legislator Sangita Sinha pointed out that the government had promised to provide cylinders for Rs 500. In response, ruling party members cited the ongoing conflict in Iran as a reason for price hikes, which drew sharp criticism from the opposition.

At one point, Bhedia also referenced the Manipur violence and the Unnao case, accusing the Prime Minister of "putting tape on his mouth" when atrocities against women were happening. "Which woman is safe in this country today?" she asked the House.

Speaker Dr. Raman Singh repeatedly tried to restore order, but the session remained noisy throughout. The government insisted that the resolution was a serious effort for women's empowerment, while the opposition stuck to its position that it was merely a political move ahead of elections.

No vote was taken on the resolution by the time this report was filed, with debate still ongoing.

BJP sweeps Gujarat civic polls as Congress falters; AAP makes inroads in Saurashtra

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has once again demonstrated its formidable grip over Gujarat’s local governance, registering a landslide victory across municipal corporations and municipalities in the 2026 civic body elections. While the saffron party dominated the urban landscape, the results brought a mix of surprises, including the defeat of cricketer Ravindra Jadeja’s sister and a notable performance by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in specific pockets of the Saurashtra region.

Saffron wave sweeps major corporations

The counting of votes, which began early Tuesday morning across 393 local bodies, quickly turned into a one-sided affair in most urban centers. In major cities like Rajkot, Jamnagar, and Surat, the BJP’s "panel system"—where the party fields a group of four candidates per ward—delivered clinical results.

In the Rajkot Municipal Corporation, the BJP secured a staggering 65 out of 72 seats, leaving the Congress with a meager seven. Similarly, in Jamnagar, the party achieved a complete wipeout of the opposition in several wards, winning 40 seats across ten wards consecutively. The newly upgraded Navsari Municipal Corporation also saw a saffron surge, with the BJP claiming 50 out of 52 seats.

High-profile upsets and family battles

One of the biggest talking points of the day was the defeat of Nainaba Jadeja, sister of Indian cricketer Ravindra Jadeja. Contesting on a Congress ticket in Ward No. 2 of Rajkot, she failed to withstand the BJP wave as the entire saffron panel emerged victorious in her constituency.

Another notable loss was reported from Lathi Taluka Panchayat, where Sonalben Der, daughter of famous folk writer Maya Bhai Ahir and a BJP candidate, suffered a crushing defeat against Congress’s Shantiben Der. These individual losses provided small windows of relief for the Congress in an otherwise dismal day for the party.

AAP challenges status quo in Saurashtra

While the overall narrative remained pro-BJP, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) managed to register its presence, particularly in the Saurashtra region and Jamnagar. In a surprising turn of events in Jamnagar’s Ward No. 12, AAP candidates Aslam Khilji and Zainabben Khafi secured victories alongside two Congress candidates. Interestingly, Khilji won the seat while being behind bars under GUJSITOC charges.

In Surat, where AAP had previously made significant gains, the party faced a tougher challenge this time. The BJP managed to snatch back several seats, including Ward No. 16, where AAP’s prominent face Payal Sakaria was defeated by the BJP panel.

Clashes and chaos at counting centers

The high stakes led to several instances of friction between party workers. In Surat, a violent scuffle broke out at Gandhi Engineering College between BJP and Congress supporters following the declaration of results for Ward No. 18. Witnesses described a "hair-pulling brawl" that required police intervention to disperse the crowd.

Similar tensions were witnessed at Ahmedabad’s LD Engineering College, where AAP and BJP workers engaged in a heated face-off over the use of mobile phones inside the counting hall. In Visnagar, the Congress staged a walkout and boycotted the counting process, alleging EVM tampering after a BJP clean sweep in Ward-3.

New civic bodies and OBC factor

This election was particularly significant as it was the first since the state increased reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) from 10% to 27% in local bodies. The move appeared to have consolidated the BJP’s vote share across rural and semi-urban belts.

Furthermore, the results for nine newly created municipal corporations, including Morbi and Surendranagar, showed that the ruling party’s organizational machinery remains unmatched at the grassroots level. In Morbi, the BJP created history by winning all 52 seats in its very first corporation election.

Future of urban governance

As the final tallies are consolidated, the results suggest a shrinking space for the traditional opposition. The Congress's inability to keep pace in urban wards has allowed the BJP to maintain a near-monopoly on city budgets and infrastructure planning. For the AAP, the results represent a foothold that they will look to expand, though the "saffron fortress" of Gujarat remains largely impenetrable for now.

Congress in West Bengal has entered the Assembly election battle with a cautious but calculated strategy, seeking to revive its shrinking political base while avoiding a direct confrontation with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC). The party’s approach reflects a delicate balancing act as it attempts to regain organisational relevance in the state without damaging broader opposition equations.

Limited Seat Focus

Congress is contesting 292 seats in West Bengal, but party leaders have made it clear that the campaign is not spread evenly across the state. Instead, the focus remains on a limited set of constituencies where the party believes it still has organisational presence, identifiable voter support and realistic electoral prospects.

According to party sources, Congress expects that even a modest seat tally, combined with an improved vote share, would help re-establish its political relevance in the state. The party has concentrated resources on select districts rather than pursuing an expansive state-wide campaign.

Core Congress Pockets

The party’s campaign has largely centred around Malda, Murshidabad, Kolkata, Hooghly, Raiganj, North Dinajpur and Birbhum. These regions have historically formed the backbone of Congress support in West Bengal and continue to offer some residual social and political capital.

Congress is particularly attempting to consolidate its traditional voter base among minorities and rural communities in these districts. Party strategists believe these constituencies offer the best chance to rebuild grassroots structures and recover lost political space, as per reports from state leaders.

Rahul’s Measured Messaging

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s campaign stops in West Bengal reflected this selective strategy. He addressed rallies in Srirampur, represented by state Congress president Subhankar Sarkar, and in Murshidabad, the home district of senior leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury.

His messaging remained measured. While Rahul Gandhi mentioned Mamata Banerjee only briefly, his speeches were largely directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The calibrated tone suggested Congress was attempting to protect its own leadership space in Bengal without escalating tensions with the TMC.

Avoiding Direct Clash

Congress has been notably restrained in constituencies where the principal contest is between the TMC and BJP. Party leaders appear reluctant to adopt an aggressive posture in these seats, mindful of the larger opposition landscape beyond West Bengal.

Sources indicated that Congress does not want its state-level campaign to undermine the possibility of future cooperation with the TMC at the national level. This explains the party’s selective aggression assertive where it sees room for revival, cautious where direct attacks could complicate national opposition politics.

Identity Crisis Persists

The strategy, however, carries clear risks. Congress faces a persistent identity challenge in West Bengal, where its political space has been squeezed by both the TMC and BJP over the past decade. By avoiding a sharper line against the ruling party, Congress risks appearing politically ambiguous to voters.

The central question before the electorate remains whether Congress is positioning itself as an independent challenger or as a tacit ally in the state’s larger anti-BJP framework. That lack of clarity could weaken the party’s attempt to rebuild an independent political identity, according to political observers.

What Lies Ahead

For Congress, the immediate objective in West Bengal is less about sweeping gains and more about organisational survival. The party is using this election to test whether its old support base can still be mobilised and whether selective interventions can translate into electoral relevance.

Its performance in these targeted pockets will determine whether Congress can rebuild a durable state unit or remain a marginal player in Bengal politics. For now, Congress in West Bengal is betting on restraint, regional strength and careful messaging to stay politically afloat in a complex electoral contest.

A political controversy over a televised address by Narendra Modi has reached the Supreme Court of India, with a Congress MP filing a petition alleging violation of election norms. The plea questions the broadcast of the PM Modi speech on state-run platforms during an ongoing election cycle.

Who Moved Court

The petition has been filed by Congress MP T. N. Prathapan, who represents Kerala in Parliament. According to reports, Prathapan approached the apex court seeking directions against what he termed as misuse of government-controlled media for political messaging.

Allegations Raised

The petition alleges that the speech, delivered on April 18, was aired live on Doordarshan and Sansad TV both funded by the public exchequer. It claims that these platforms fall under government influence and should not be used for partisan communication during an active election period.

Prathapan has argued that such a broadcast violates the Model Code of Conduct, which restricts political campaigning using official resources.

Speech Content Disputed

The controversy centres on remarks made by the Prime Minister during the address, where several opposition parties were named and criticised. The petition states that parties such as the Congress, Trinamool Congress, DMK and Samajwadi Party were directly targeted.

According to the filing, the PM urged voters to hold these parties accountable over their stance on the Women’s Reservation Bill, making the speech political in nature.

Timing of Address

The speech was delivered shortly after developments linked to the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill, formally known as the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill.

The petitioner has contended that the timing of the address during an active election phase raises concerns about fairness and neutrality in public communication.

Demand for Action

In his plea, Prathapan has sought a directive from the court to the Election Commission of India to examine the matter and initiate action. He has urged the court to ensure that government platforms are not used to influence voters during elections.

Officials have not yet issued a detailed response on the petition. The matter is expected to come up for preliminary hearing in the coming days.

Political Context

The issue comes amid heightened political activity across states, where adherence to the Model Code of Conduct is under scrutiny. The use of state resources for political messaging has been a recurring concern raised by opposition parties in past elections as well. Observers note that such cases often test the balance between official communication and political campaigning.

What Lies Ahead

The Supreme Court’s response to the plea will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent on how government-controlled media can be used during elections.

If the court admits the petition, it may seek responses from the Centre and the Election Commission, potentially shaping guidelines for future broadcasts.

BJP to Launch Statewide Protests Over Women’s Reservation Bill Impasse

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has announced a special Madhya Pradesh Assembly session and a series of rallies to protest the opposition's role in the defeat of the 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill.

CM Criticises Opposition Conduct

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Sunday launched a scathing attack on the opposition following the defeat of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha. Speaking at the BJP state headquarters in Bhopal, Yadav described the legislative setback as a "dark day for democracy."

The Chief Minister compared the parliamentary disruption to historical injustices, stating that the manner in which the dignity of women was handled in the temple of democracy was deeply painful. He noted that the Modi government had provided every opportunity for dialogue, yet the bill fell short of the required two-thirds majority.

Statewide Aakrosh Rallies Planned

To take the issue to the public, the BJP has announced a massive 'Nari Shakti Vandan' foot march starting Monday. This movement is part of the Latest News Today regarding the party's strategy to corner the Congress-led opposition across all districts of Madhya Pradesh.

The Chief Minister confirmed that the agitation would be phased, beginning with local demonstrations and moving up to municipal levels. "The government and the party will not sit idle; we are going to the people’s court to expose those who snatched away the rights of our sisters," Yadav told reporters.

Special Assembly Session Proposed

In a significant move for India News Update, the Chief Minister announced that his government plans to convene a one-day special session of the Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha. The session will focus exclusively on the Women’s Reservation issue and aim to pass a formal condemnation motion against the opposition.

"This is not just a political issue but a matter of national priority," Yadav remarked. He emphasized that the state’s legislative body must record its protest against the "anti-women mindset" displayed in Parliament during the voting process for the 850-seat expansion proposal.

BJP Questions Shift in Stance

The Chief Minister highlighted what he termed "political opportunism" by the opposition parties. He pointed out that many who supported the Act in 2023, when elections were looming, have now retracted their support when the time for implementation arrived.

According to officials present at the briefing, the BJP leadership believes the opposition is using the North-South seat disparity as a "baseless excuse" to stall progress. Yadav reiterated that the Home Minister had already clarified that seat increases would be proportionate and fair to all regions.

Organizational Support for Movement

The press conference saw the presence of several senior leaders, including BJP State President Hemant Khandelwal and National Vice President Rekha Verma. Khandelwal alleged that the opposition’s celebration after the bill failed was a direct insult to the "half-population" of the country.

Rekha Verma added that women had been fighting for 33% reservation for 70 years. She claimed that while the Prime Minister and Home Minister made sincere efforts to grant these rights, the opposition’s resistance revealed their "true face" once the 2024 General Elections concluded.

Impact on Local Governance

The protest strategy involves passing condemnation resolutions at every level of local governance, including Nagar Nigams, Municipalities, and Nagar Panchayats. This grassroots approach aims to make the Women’s Reservation Bill a central theme in the English News Portal India landscape.

Political analysts suggest that by taking the fight to the local bodies, the BJP intends to consolidate its woman voter base ahead of upcoming local polls. The party plans to highlight the Congress's past record on issues like Triple Talaq to bolster its narrative of being the sole protector of women's interests.

Future Legislative Outlook

The 131st Constitutional Amendment Bill required 352 votes to pass but secured only 298. Despite the numerical setback in the Lok Sabha, the MP government maintains that the struggle for the Public Interest Story of women's empowerment will continue through public awareness.

As the 'Nari Shakti Vandan' yatra rolls out across the state, the political climate in Madhya Pradesh is expected to remain heated. The Chief Minister’s firm stance indicates that the BJP will use this legislative hurdle as a major plank for its upcoming outreach programs in this Trending News India development.

Masturi Shootout: Midnight Police Raid at Fugitive Congress Leader’s Residence

Armed teams and dog squads search Nagendra Rai’s house in Bilaspur; family members booked for obstructing official duty during the operation.

In a major escalation in the Masturi shootout investigation, the Bilaspur police conducted a massive midnight search operation at the residence of fugitive Congress leader Nagendra Rai. Despite a two-and-a-half-hour intensive sweep involving armed personnel and canine units, the accused managed to evade capture. The high-voltage drama at the Torwa locality saw family members clash with officials, leading to fresh criminal charges against the kin for obstructing a public servant.

Midnight Raid in Torwa

Acting on specific intelligence suggesting the accused was hiding in his ancestral home, a heavy police contingent descended upon the Lal Khadan-Mahmand area at 1:00 AM. The team, comprising senior officers and specialized units, cordoned off the perimeter before initiating a room-by-room search. Sources indicated that the operation was sanctioned after tracking recent movements in the vicinity linked to the fugitive's inner circle.

Confrontation with Family

The search operation faced immediate resistance from Rai’s relatives. His son and nephew reportedly engaged in a heated argument with the police, questioning the timing of the raid. Officials stated that the family attempted to block the entry of armed jawans into private quarters. Following the altercation, the Torwa police registered a formal case against the family members for interference in government proceedings.

Specialized Search Tactics

To ensure no hidden cavities or underground bunkers were missed, the district police deployed a dog squad during the raid. Armed jawans maintained a strict vigil at all exit points of the sprawling property. "We left no stone unturned during the 150-minute operation, but the primary suspect was not on the premises," a senior officer privy to the investigation confirmed.

Background of Violence

The case dates back to October 29, when a brazen assassination attempt took place at the Masturi bus stand. Masked assailants on motorcycles opened fire at the office of Janpad Vice President Nitesh Singh. Singh, who was present with associates, survived the attack by returning fire with his licensed pistol. The exchange of bullets in broad daylight had sent shockwaves through the district’s political corridors.

Conspiracy and Arrests

Investigations into the Latest News Today reveal that the shooting was the fallout of a deep-seated rivalry over local dominance. Police have already arrested 11 individuals, including Congress leader Akbar Khan and his brother. While 10 adults remain in judicial custody and one minor has been sent to a correction home, the alleged masterminds, Nagendra Rai and Tarkeshwar Patle, continue to remain at large.

Bounties and Surveillance

The Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rajnesh Singh has placed a bounty of ₹5,000 each on Nagendra Rai and Tarkeshwar Patle. Despite multiple raids across Chhattisgarh and neighboring states, the duo has successfully avoided the police net for weeks. Authorities now suspect that Rai might have slipped across state borders to seek refuge with political affiliates in North India.

Escalating Legal Pressure

As part of the Government Updates on the case, the police are now moving toward property attachment proceedings if the accused fail to surrender. The recent raid serves as a stern warning to those harboring the fugitives. With the High Court already rejecting the bail plea of one co-accused, the legal noose is tightening around the remaining members of the Vishwajeet Anant gang involved in this Trending News India story.