Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin strongly opposed the Centre's proposed Delimitation Bill, labeling it a «calculated deception.» He warned of resistance in Tamil Nadu if the bill is pushed through Parliament, asserting that the government's actions contradict verbal assurances about maintaining the state's representation.
The Supreme Court denied Congress leader Pawan Khera's request for extended transit anticipatory bail, impacting his efforts to secure protection before an Assam court. This follows the apex court's stay on a Telangana High Court order, raising concerns about «forum shopping» as the FIR originated in Assam. Khera can still seek bail in Assam.
Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor criticized the proposed delimitation exercise as «political demonetisation,» arguing that linking women's reservation to constituency redrawing and census data unnecessarily complicates a widely supported reform. He urged immediate implementation of women's reservation, warning that delimitation could disrupt federalism and political power balances.
India has voiced strong concerns at the United Nations regarding threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Ambassador Harish P emphasized the vital importance of maritime security for India's energy and economic interests. He condemned attacks on civilian maritime activity and called for the immediate restoration of safe navigation.
Women's reservation in elections will now be implemented from April 16, 2026, following a notification by the law ministry. This move aims to expedite women's participation in politics. The government is pushing for amendments to the Constitution to allow delimitation based on the 2011 census, potentially enabling women's reservation in the 2029 general election.
President Donald Trump described his recent conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as «very good,» highlighting their strong friendship and India's progress. The leaders discussed bilateral cooperation and the critical situation in West Asia, emphasizing the need for a secure Strait of Hormuz. This marks their third call this year, following discussions on trade and regional stability.
Speaking during the debate on the women’s reservation-related amendment bills and the proposed delimitation framework, Shah said the total strength of the Lok Sabha would rise to 816 seats, though the legislation mentions a ceiling of 850 because that figure is rounded. He explained that 816 reflects a precise 50 per cent increase over the current 543 elected seats.
ISRO's Space Applications Centre and ATREE have partnered to map India's grasslands and open natural ecosystems using satellite data and ecological research. This collaboration aims to assess restoration impacts, improve carbon estimation, and generate policy-ready datasets for land use planning and conservation efforts.
Parliament buzzed with debate over India's representational future as the delimitation exercise and Women's Reservation Bill took center stage. Prime Minister Modi and home minister Shah assured southern states no injustice would occur, projecting increased seats and influence. Maths indicate a marginal shift in overall share despite seat increases for Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor urged the government to implement women's reservation immediately, separate from the delimitation process. He argued that delimitation requires extensive discussion, unlike the reservation bill which the opposition fully supports. Tharoor cautioned against a rushed approach, likening it to 'political demonetisation' and advocating for broader consultation.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the government's women's reservation and delimitation bills in Lok Sabha, calling them an «open attack» on democracy. She questioned the delay in implementation and alleged the government is diverting from the core issue of women's reservation, while reaffirming Congress's support.
Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta announced a comprehensive initiative to strengthen technical and vocational education in the capital's Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).
Backing the idea of reserving seats for women legislators, Priyanka said her party was not opposing women’s representation itself, but questioning what she described as the political intent behind the timing and framing of the bill. She argued that the ruling NDA was using the measure as an electoral strategy rather than as a purely reform-driven step.
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath drew parallels between Bengal's current situation and UP's past, highlighting law and order issues, mafia rule, and corruption. He accused the TMC of creating an identity crisis and appealed for a BJP government to end terror and corruption in West Bengal.
