Rahul Gandhi accused the Centre of a power grab through a delimitation bill, stating the women's reservation bill was already passed in 2023. He asserted the Congress party unequivocally supports women's reservation and condemned the proposed increase in Lok Sabha seats as 'hissa chori' from marginalized communities and certain regions.
Addressing reporters in Coimbatore, the senior Congress leader shared critical views regarding the special session of parliament and the proposed Delimitation Bill.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a state-wide black flag protest against the Centre's proposed delimitation exercise. He warned of severe political consequences if concerns about reducing southern states' political weight are ignored. Stalin described the move as a 'grave danger' and a 'historic injustice' that could widen the North-South divide and undermine federalism.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended Bengali New Year greetings, urging voters to democratically counter attempts by «Delhi's zamindars» to undermine voting rights. She emphasized Bengal's cultural legacy of communal harmony and called for unity against divisive forces, appealing for votes for the Trinamool Congress in upcoming elections.
The Aam Aadmi Party's rift with MP Raghav Chadha has widened, with leaders accusing him of betrayal and linking ED raids on Ashok Mittal to his alleged collusion with the BJP. Chadha's removal as deputy leader and subsequent Z-category security have fueled internal dissent and public accusations.
Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam president Vijay's rally in Tiruppur was cancelled after at least 15 supporters collapsed due to severe heat and overcrowding. The decision was made following police advice to prevent a repeat of the Karur stampede, with Vijay departing for Coimbatore.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that the proposed Women's Reservation Act amendment aligns with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's vision of equality and inclusivity. He urged swift passage of the legislation, stating that full implementation by the 2029 elections will significantly strengthen Indian democracy and accelerate the nation's development towards a 'Viksit Bharat'.
The BJP has secured its first chief minister in Bihar with Samrat Choudhary's election, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape. This move mirrors the party's strategy in Maharashtra, where it reclaimed leadership by strategically strengthening its position within existing alliances, demonstrating a path to dominance without coalition breakdown.
Prime Minister Modi and US President Trump held a significant phone call, reviewing robust bilateral ties and progress in their Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. They also addressed the critical situation in West Asia, emphasizing the need for a secure and open Strait of Hormuz. This marks their third discussion this year, following recent peace talks.
Referring to the special session of Parliament scheduled for April 16, Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin alleged that it had been “forcibly convened” in the middle of elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, and claimed the Union government intended to push through a constitutional amendment on delimitation without adequate debate.
India's post-colonial era saw a duality in its social order, reflected in its female playback singers. While Lata Mangeshkar became the gold standard for purity, Asha Bhosle carved her own path, embracing diverse styles and embodying hidden desires. Their distinct voices represented contrasting facets of evolving Indian society and its aspirations.
