A political row has erupted over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent community event in Melbourne after organisers rejected allegations by the Congress that attendees were paid to participate in the programme.

The controversy began after Congress leader Pawan Khera shared a video on social media claiming that thousands of people were allegedly hired and flown in through chartered flights to welcome Prime Minister Modi during the 'Melbourne Meets Modi' event held on July 9.

Responding to the allegations, the event organisers categorically denied any payment to attendees and described the claims as "false" and an insult to the Indian-Australian community. According to media reports, they have written to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi seeking a public apology and withdrawal of the statements.

Organisers Defend The Event

The organisers said the large-scale event, attended by nearly 30,000 members of the Indian diaspora, was funded independently by community organisations and volunteers. They clarified that neither the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Government of India nor the Australian Government financed the programme.

Addressing the issue of chartered flights, organisers said the travel arrangements were the result of months of planning, coordination and logistical preparation. They stated that volunteers spent significant time managing bookings, passenger coordination and administrative work, while many also contributed financially and sacrificed personal and professional commitments to ensure the event's success.

According to the organisers, arranging chartered flights was intended only to facilitate travel for community members and should not be interpreted as evidence that attendees were paid.

Congress Questions Crowd Mobilisation

The Congress has alleged that a large number of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) were brought to the event through paid arrangements. Pawan Khera claimed on social media that between 25,000 and 30,000 people attended after being financially compensated.

The organisers, however, rejected the allegation, stating that while political criticism of Prime Minister Modi or the BJP is part of democratic discourse, questioning the voluntary participation of the Indian diaspora unfairly undermines the community's independence and commitment.

PM Modi Addresses Indian Community

Prime Minister Modi addressed the Indian community in Melbourne during his two-day visit to Australia on July 9 and 10. During the programme, he praised India's growing global stature in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, defence and technology.

Referring to Operation Sindoor, the Prime Minister said India's defence capabilities had attracted worldwide attention, adding that the operation demonstrated the country's increasing military strength and credibility.

The event also witnessed a symbolic moment when attendees switched on their mobile phone flashlights at Modi's request as a gesture of appreciation for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

India-Australia Partnership Expanded

During the visit, India and Australia announced agreements covering defence cooperation, trade, critical minerals, energy and space collaboration.

Among the key announcements was the decision to jointly develop a Critical Minerals Corridor, aimed at strengthening supply chains for strategic resources. The two countries also agreed to establish a space tracking terminal on Australia's Cocos (Keeling) Islands, which will support India's Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.

The visit further strengthened the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Australia, with both governments reaffirming cooperation across economic, security and emerging technology sectors.

While the political controversy surrounding the Melbourne event continues, the organisers have maintained that the gathering reflected genuine participation by the Indian diaspora and have called for the allegations against the community to be withdrawn.

The seventh meeting of the INDIA bloc concluded at the Constitution Club here on Monday, with top opposition leaders reaching a five-point consensus on key national issues ranging from electoral reforms to economic distress. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge announced the decisions after hours of deliberations, signalling an attempt by the alliance to regroup ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

Leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav, and several others attended the meeting in person, while Uddhav Thackeray and Hemant Soren joined virtually. Kharge later told reporters that 23 to 25 parties participated and a broad agreement was reached despite differing regional concerns.

Leaders Gather After Two-Year Gap

The meeting comes nearly two years after the last formal INDIA bloc gathering in Delhi in June 2024. In the interim, the alliance navigated multiple state polls with mixed results — fighting united in some states like Jammu and Kashmir and Jharkhand, but separately in others including Kerala and West Bengal.

Senior leaders described the Monday huddle as an opportunity to address common challenges posed by the ruling NDA. Kharge highlighted issues such as alleged misuse of central agencies, economic slowdown, and youth unemployment.

Five Key Decisions Announced

After the meeting, Kharge outlined the consensus points. The alliance decided to send a letter to the Chief Justice of India raising concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and alleged irregularities in the electoral process. 

The bloc also unanimously demanded the immediate resignation of the Union Education Minister, citing lapses in the conduct of NEET and CBSE examinations that affected lakhs of students. 

A third point called upon the Centre to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the “precarious” economic situation, rising prices, unemployment, and farmers’ issues. 

Also Read: Internal rumblings surface as INDIA bloc convenes in national capital

Regular Coordination Planned

In a bid to strengthen unity, parties agreed to meet physically every two months. The next meeting is scheduled for Hyderabad in August. Additionally, parliamentary floor coordination will continue during the upcoming Monsoon Session, with daily morning meetings at the office of Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.

Kharge emphasised that all parties shared their views freely and consensus emerged on fighting together on people-centric issues.

UnderCurrents of Tension

The meeting took place against a backdrop of visible strains within the alliance. Posters targeting Rahul Gandhi and the Congress appeared on Akbar Road earlier in the day, which Youth Congress workers later removed. Several leaders dismissed the posters as “cheap tactics” possibly aimed at creating divisions. 

Regional frictions were also evident. Parties from Kerala and Jharkhand have expressed unhappiness over recent Congress decisions, while seat-sharing talks for future polls remain delicate. Mamata Banerjee’s attendance drew attention amid reports of some Trinamool Congress MPs exploring other options. Despite these challenges, leaders projected a show of unity, with Sonia Gandhi and Mamata seen sharing warm moments.

Sharad Pawar, who attended with daughter Supriya Sule, noted that no immediate major decisions were expected but discussions would continue. He spoke of evolving a “formula” to prevent rigidity and maintain alliance cohesion, especially with no major national polls for the next few years.

Opposition Eyes United Front

The INDIA bloc, formed in 2023, had tasted success in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, restricting the BJP from a majority on its own. Since then, it has seen both victories and setbacks in state elections. Monday’s meeting is seen as an effort to recalibrate strategy ahead of the 2029 general elections and upcoming state polls in states like Uttar Pradesh.

Congress leaders expressed confidence that the alliance remained united at the national level despite local differences. RJD’s Manoj Kumar Jha and others called for addressing internal issues on appropriate platforms rather than through public posturing.

As the Monsoon Session approaches, the opposition is expected to press the government on economic concerns, education reforms, and electoral integrity. The decisions taken today are likely to shape their parliamentary strategy in the coming weeks. 

The development comes at a time when opposition parties are seeking to counter what they describe as “misgovernance” on multiple fronts. How effectively they translate today’s consensus into coordinated action will be watched closely in the days ahead.

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.

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.

Delimitation Is the Real Threat, Not Women's Quota: Sonia Gandhi

Congress Parliamentary Party chief questions timing of special Parliament session as debate over Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam amendments heats up ahead of April 16 sitting

Gandhi Targets Special Session

Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Monday asserted that the core issue behind the government's decision to convene a special sitting of Parliament this week is delimitation — not women's reservation — and described the reported delimitation proposal as posing an existential threat to the Constitution itself.

Writing in an opinion article published in The Hindu, Gandhi accused the Modi government of using the Women's Reservation Bill as political cover while pushing through a far more consequential exercise in redrawn parliamentary boundaries.

Political Timing Under Fire

Gandhi alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking support from opposition parties for bills the government intends to force through Parliament at a time when election campaigns in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal are at their peak, with the only plausible explanation being an attempt to derive political advantage and put the opposition on the back foot.

She also criticised the government for declining repeated requests from opposition parties to hold an all-party meeting after the conclusion of Assembly elections on April 29, before taking up the constitutional amendments.

On the Reservation Timeline

Gandhi noted that Parliament had unanimously passed the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in September 2023, introducing Article 334-A, which mandated one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, subject to the completion of the next census and a delimitation exercise. She pointed out that the opposition had never asked for this condition — in fact, Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge had demanded women's reservation be implemented from the 2024 general elections itself, a demand the government rejected.

Now, according to Gandhi, Article 334-A is set to be amended so that the reservation comes into effect from 2029 — and she questioned why the Prime Minister had taken over 30 months to reverse his own position on the matter.

The Delimitation Warning

Gandhi clarified that the opposition's objection is not to 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures — that debate has been settled — but to the delimitation process being rushed through ahead of the 2027 census.

She stressed that any increase in the strength of the Lok Sabha through delimitation must be politically equitable, not merely arithmetical, warning that a proportionate increase could magnify existing regional imbalances and reduce the relative influence of some states.

According to available but unofficial information, the Lok Sabha could expand from 543 to 816 seats following the amendment, with a separate Delimitation Bill to be introduced alongside the constitutional amendment.

Census Delay Argument Rejected

Gandhi took aim at the government's stated justification for acting before the census, pointing out that Bihar and Telangana each conducted comprehensive caste surveys within six months, undermining arguments that such exercises require prolonged lead time. She also noted that senior government officials have publicly stated that most population enumeration data from Census 2027 will be available in 2027 itself — making the special session's urgency appear hollow.

Caste Census Concern

Gandhi further alleged that PM Modi's actual intent is to delay and derail the caste census, pointing to the government's record of filing affidavits in the Supreme Court rejecting caste enumeration, before reversing course approximately a year ago when the 2027 census was announced as a caste census. She argued the sudden change in position lacked credibility.

Opposition's Demand and BJP's Whip

Gandhi said the monsoon session of Parliament is set to begin in mid-July and argued there is ample time for the government to hold proper consultations and introduce the amendment bills then, rather than rushing them through a three-day special sitting.

Meanwhile, the BJP issued a three-line whip to all its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs, directing them to be present in Parliament from April 16 to 18 without exception. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote separately to the Prime Minister, stating that convening Parliament during active state elections reflects an intent to weaponise legislation for electoral benefit.

What Comes Next

Both bills — the constitutional amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and a separate Delimitation Bill — require passage as constitutional amendments. The plan to proceed using 2011 census data, rather than the upcoming 2027 figures, has become a central flashpoint in the political standoff. With Parliament set to convene on April 16, the government will need to demonstrate it has secured the two-thirds majority required to pass constitutional ame

BJP Seeks FIR Against Kharge Over 'Poisonous Snake' Remark, RSS Also Files Complaint Congress president's Assam rally speech triggers political storm ahead of April 9 assembly elections

Congress Chief Sparks Row in Assam

A major political controversy broke out in poll-bound Assam after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge compared the BJP and RSS to a "poisonous snake" at an election rally, drawing sharp reactions from the ruling party and triggering multiple complaints to the police and the Election Commission of India.

Kharge made the remarks while addressing a rally in Nilambazar in Sribhumi district, likening the BJP and RSS to a "poisonous snake" that, he said, must be eliminated. Referring to a religious analogy, he said that if a poisonous snake appears during namaz, one must stop the prayer and deal with the threat first.

BJP Files Complaint With EC

The BJP on Wednesday lodged a complaint with the Election Commission over Kharge's remarks and demanded removal of what it termed "despicable and derogatory" content from all social media handles and digital platforms. It also urged the EC to issue a show-cause notice to the Congress president and pressed for a public apology for what it called a blatant violation of the model code of conduct.

In its complaint, the BJP stated: "This is not mere political rhetoric but a calculated and reckless appeal that is capable of inciting hatred, disturbing public tranquility, and potentially provoking violence between communities."

FIR Registered at Basistha Police Station

The Assam BJP lodged a formal police complaint against Kharge at Basistha police station in Guwahati. BJP leader Rabjib Kumar Sarmah said the party also intended to forward the FIR to the Election Commission to urge action against Kharge, and demanded that the administration stop such speeches immediately.

BJP MP Manoj Tiwari went further, calling the remarks an act of "direct treason." He accused the Congress of acting in despair due to fear of defeat, saying the party had "directly called for riots" and that the people of Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala would not forgive Congress for such statements.

RSS Joins With Separate Complaints

The RSS, through its Uttar Assam Prant and Dakshin Assam Prant units, formally submitted police complaints at Dispur police station in Guwahati and Silchar police station respectively, seeking legal action over allegedly derogatory, provocative, and communally sensitive statements made during the rally.

The RSS, in its complaint, asserted that the remarks constituted a corrupt electoral practice under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and alleged criminal intimidation as well as promotion of enmity between communities.

Congress Defends the Speech

Priyank Kharge, Karnataka minister and son of the Congress president, defended his father's remarks. He questioned whether one would feed a poisonous snake or drive it away, arguing the remarks were being misrepresented for political purposes. Kharge himself later clarified that his words targeted the "ideology" of BJP-RSS, which he described as harmful to the country.

Shah Hits Back With Poll Warning

Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded sharply, saying voters would settle scores through their ballots. He predicted that after April 9 — the date of the Assam assembly election — Congress would not be visible "even with binoculars," signalling the BJP's confidence ahead of the crucial state polls.

Kharge's Gujarat Remark Also Draws Fire

The controversy compounds troubles for Kharge, who was already under criticism for separate remarks made in Kerala calling people of Gujarat "uneducated." He subsequently expressed regret over those comments, saying on social media that his statement had been deliberately misrepresented and that he regretted the words used.

What Comes Next

With Assam voting on April 9, the BJP's complaints to both police and the Election Commission are likely to remain in the spotlight. The EC is expected to examine the seven-page BJP complaint, which covers multiple controversial statements by Kharge, before deciding on any formal action. The political fallout is set to sharpen, as both sides dig in — with the Congress insisting the remarks were contextual and the BJP pushing for a ban on further campaign speeches by the Congress president.

Sitharaman Tables Corporate Law Bill in Lok Sabha Session

Key Bills Introduced

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the Corporate Law (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in Lok Sabha on Monday. The bill proposes changes to the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008, and Companies Act, 2013. Proceedings kicked off amid tight security in New Delhi.

Session Resumes Today

Lok Sabha reconvened after passing ministry grant demands via guillotine last week. Sources say opposition parties plan uproar over West Asia flare-up. US-Israel tensions with Iran threaten India's oil and gas supplies, reports indicate.

West Asia Shadows Debate

MPs from Congress and allies eye disruptions on energy crunch. War impacts could spike fuel prices nationwide. Officials note imports already strained, per latest trade data.

Rocky Session History

Budget Session started January 28 with President Droupadi Murmu's address. She highlighted Operation Sindoor and 150 Vande Bharat trains. Economic Survey followed on January 29, projecting 6.8-7.2% GDP growth for 2026-27.

Budget Presented February 1

Sitharaman unveiled Budget 2026-27 that day. Her 85-minute speech covered tax simplifications, railway expansions, and three new Ayurvedic AIIMS. No big relief for common citizens drew flak.

Uproar Dominates Early Days

February 3 saw Rahul Gandhi claim denial of speaking rights as Leader of Opposition. BJP's Nishikant Dubey waved books alleging Gandhi family corruption on February 4. Motion of Thanks passed sans PM speech on February 5—first since 2004.

Short Sittings, No-Confidence Bid

Lok Sabha ran just 13 minutes on February 9 amid demands for Gandhi's turn. Opposition filed no-confidence notice against Speaker Om Birla on February 10 with 118 signatures. Union Minister Bittu's jibe at Rahul triggered adjournments on February 6.

Recent Opposition Fire

Rahul Gandhi linked US Adani case to PM pressure tactics on February 11. Mallikarjun Kharge protested speech expunctions on February 13. First phase ended then, setting stormy tone.

Official Reactions Muted

Sitharaman's office confirmed bill tabling but skipped West Asia comments. Speaker's team dismissed no-confidence as procedural. Congress sources predict heated exchanges today.

Economic Stakes High

Amendments aim to ease business compliance, boost investments. Amid global conflicts, stable corporate laws signal continuity. Markets watch for passage amid disruptions.

Public Impact Looms

Oil shortages from West Asia could hit households hard. Inflation fears mount as India imports 85% energy needs. Rural Madhya Pradesh feels pinch early, traders say.

What's Ahead

Debate on Finance Bill expected soon. Opposition push on foreign policy may delay votes. Session runs till month-end, with Rajya Sabha synced. Watch for cross-party talks to avert washouts.

This Corporate Law Amendment Bill marks a key step in Lok Sabha Budget Session reforms. As India News Update unfolds, tensions blend domestic policy with global risks in this public interest story.

PM Modi Lok Sabha Address Sparks Tension: Kharge Hits Out at Manipur 'Militarised Zone' and US-India Trade Deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address the Lok Sabha at 5 PM today, marking his first speech after the landmark US-India trade deal slashed tariffs from 50% to 18%. The session unfolds amid high drama, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge slamming the BJP government in Rajya Sabha, calling Manipur a "militarised zone" and accusing it of treating women as mere vote banks.

Parliament Erupts Over US-India Trade Deal

The US-India trade deal, hailed by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal as "historic," protects India's agriculture and boosts exports. Goyal told the Lok Sabha it safeguards 140 crore Indians' interests and advances Viksit Bharat 2047. Yet, opposition fury peaked—Rahul Gandhi alleged PM Modi was "compromised," flashing excerpts from ex-Army Chief Gen Naravane's unpublished memoir on the 2020 Ladakh standoff.

Proceedings adjourned multiple times due to slogan-shouting like "Surrender Modi." Eight opposition MPs—Gurjeet Aujla, Hibi Eden, Manickam Tagore, Prashant Yadaorao Padole, Kiran Kumar Reddy, Dean Kuriakose, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, and S. Venkatesan—were suspended for throwing papers at the Speaker's podium.

Kharge's Five-Point Attack on BJP Govt

In Rajya Sabha, Kharge flagged key failures:

• Social Justice & Women: BJP treats women as vote banks; no women's reservation despite promises. RSS/BJP never had a woman president.
  
  

• Economy & Farmers: New labour codes harm workers; save MNREGA. 1% hold 40% wealth, 9.7 lakh govt jobs vacant.
  
  

• Manipur Crisis: State turned into "militarised zone"; minorities targeted via "bulldozer politics."
  
  

• Parliament Democracy: PM skips questions—only 13 of 8,123 answered. Governors in non-NDA states act as BJP offices.
  
  

• Schemes Mismanaged: SC/ST welfare scrapped; Abhyudaya under-utilised by 41%.
  
  

Kharge questioned the trade deal's timing: "Did India yield to US pressure? Farmers protected?"

Opposition Protests Intensify

Rahul Gandhi vowed to hand Naravane's book to PM Modi. SP's Akhilesh Yadav called it a "surrender." Suspended MP Prashant Padole protested outside. BJP's Nishikant Dubey countered with books on Gandhi family scams. Heated exchanges erupted—MoS Ravneet Singh Bittu refused Rahul's handshake, calling Gandhi family "Sikh murderers."

Speaker Om Birla urged decorum amid posters and well-rushing.

Why This Matters Now

With Budget Session ending Phase 1 on Feb 13, this PM Modi Lok Sabha address tests govt-opposition ties post-trade deal and Budget. Economic Survey eyes 6.8-7.2% GDP growth; pending bills loom. As global trade shifts, India's stance draws scrutiny—will Modi address Ladakh, Manipur, and deal details?