Politics News in English

Indian Express

Oct 23, 2026, 04:05 AM

Trump's Renaming Drive: From Gulf of America to 'Trump Ocean'

US President Donald Trump has claimed that he considered renaming the Atlantic Ocean “Trump Ocean”, but said Google CEO Sundar Pichai rejected the idea because oceans span multiple countries. Recounting his conversation with the tech executive, the US president said he approached Google Maps to explore the possibility of changing the name of the Atlantic Ocean. However, he was told that his request could not be accommodated. “I said, Sundar, I’m thinking of the Atlantic Ocean. Can you handle it?” Trump said, recalling his conversation with Pichai. To this, the Google CEO responded, “No, no, no. This time I’m not doing it.” NOW – Trump says he asked Google to rename the Atlantic Ocean the “Trump Ocean,” but Sundar Pichai refused. “No, no, no. This time I’m not doing it,” Trump quotes Pichai as saying. “Oceans are different, sir. They cover a lot of countries.” https://t.co/mFhNodHnA4 — Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) October 22, 2026 “He said, ‘Oceans are different, sir. They cover a lot of countries. Please don’t ask us to do that,’” Trump said. Indicating that he would drop the proposal, the Republican leader said, “So, I’ll probably pass. Should I pass it? I think let’s keep it the Atlantic Ocean, right?” US POLITICS · GEOGRAPHY From Gulf of America to ‘Trump Ocean’: a timeline of Trump’s renaming drive Two renamings are now official for the US federal government. The third, an ocean, was floated at a rally and then, by Trump’s own account, put aside. The timeline Tap a numbered stop, or use Next. GULF · JAN 7 2025 The promise Weeks before taking office, Trump tells reporters he will rename the Gulf of Mexico. “We’re going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America, which has a beautiful ring.”DONALD TRUMP GULF · JAN 20 2025 The order On his first day back in office, Trump signs Executive Order 14172 , ordering the Gulf of America name for official US federal use. GULF · FEB 9 2025 Into the federal database After Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s order on Feb 7, the US Geological Survey adds Gulf of America to its official place-names database. Trump declares Feb 9 the first “Gulf of America Day”. GULF · MAY 2025 Mexico pushes back A day after the US House passes a Gulf of America Act, Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum says Mexico has sued Google over the label. Google Maps shows “Gulf of America” in the US, “Gulf of Mexico” in Mexico, and both names elsewhere. LAKE · AUG 25 2026 A new target Amid a trade war with Canada, Trump says he is giving “serious consideration” to renaming Lake Ontario “Lake America”, and shares an altered map. LAKE · AUG 27 2026 The second order Trump signs Executive Order 14422 . It covers the whole lake, which the US shares with Ontario, Canada, and gives the Interior Department 30 days to rename it. “I am directing that the Lake officially be renamed as Lake America.”EXECUTIVE ORDER 14422 OCEAN · OCT 10 2026 An ocean next? At a rally in Clarksville, Tennessee, Trump floats renaming the Atlantic or the Pacific “Trump Ocean” or “Ocean of the Americas”. No order follows. OCEAN · OCT 21 2026 “Probably pass” At a rally in South Carolina, Trump says Google’s Sundar Pichai told him an ocean could not be renamed, and that he will “probably pass” and keep the Atlantic’s name. Google has not confirmed the conversation. “Oceans are different, sir, they cover really a lot of countries.”PICHAI&RSQUO;S REPLY, AS RECOUNTED BY TRUMP Status cards Pick a body of water to see how far each name has gone. Gulf of Mexico → Gulf of America Jan 7, 2025, before his inauguration. Yes. Executive Order 14172 (Jan 20, 2025); entered in the federal place-names database in February 2025. No. Mexico still uses Gulf of Mexico and has sued Google over the label; Google shows both names outside the US and Mexico. Lake Ontario → Lake America Aug 25, 2026, during a trade war with Canada. Yes. Executive Order 14422 (Aug 27, 2026); the federal place-names database listed Lake America within about two days. Not everywhere yet: National Weather Service marine forecasts still said Lake Ontario on Sept 10. No. Prime Minister Mark Carney rejected it, and Ontario Premier Doug Ford said the lake stays Lake Ontario. Google shows Lake America only to US users. Atlantic Ocean → “Trump Ocean” Floated on Oct 10, 2026, for the Atlantic or the Pacific, alongside “Ocean of the Americas”. No. There has been no order, and on Oct 21 Trump said he would “probably pass”. No. Oceans span many countries; renaming one is a different matter from a gulf or lake the US borders. Yes Floated only No Sources: White House executive orders 14172 and 14422; US Geological Survey; ABC News; Fortune; Nature World News; Yahoo News; Newsweek, via Yahoo News; Hoodline. Express InfoGenIE Created by Aniruddha Dhar He added that his interest in renaming oceans was limited to the Atlantic and Pacific, suggesting he would not attach his name or the name of the United States to other oceans. “I only like two oceans, the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. I’m not going to put either Trump or America on any other ocean but these two,” he said. He then recalled his father’s remark praising his ability to spot promising locations. “My father said that kid has the greatest eye for location,” Trump recalled. Earlier, the US administration renamed the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, sparking diplomatic tensions between the two countries. In a similar move, Trump also renamed Lake Ontario, which lies between New York and Canada, as “Lake America”. Following an executive order, Google Maps renamed Lake Ontario to “Lake of America” or “Lake America” for users in the United States. The tech giant said that it follows the US Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) for map labels. While US users will see the updated name, Canadian users will continue to see Lake Ontario. In other parts of the world, Google Maps will retain Lake Ontario as the primary name, with Lake America appearing in parentheses.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:53 AM

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy Pledges Support for Rahul Gandhi's Empowerment of Bahujans

HYDERABAD: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday said the next general elections would be crucial for the country and called for people’s full support to Rahul Gandhi, expressing confidence that Bahujans would be empowered when he became prime minister. Participating in the birth anniversary celebrations of Pandaga Sayanna Mudiraj, the chief minister said his government was prioritising the political empowerment of all Backward Class (BC) communities. He announced that a Cabinet sub-committee would be constituted to study the inclusion of the Mudiraj community in the BC-A category. Revanth said the community’s reclassification from BC-D to BC-A had been delayed due to a lack of accurate data. The issue would be discussed at the next Cabinet meeting, after which the sub-committee would undertake a comprehensive study, he said. “Mudiraj community constitutes the largest population in my Kodangal constituency, and its members are known for their trustworthiness,” he said. Recalling his tenure as Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president, Revanth Reddy said he had appointed Srihari Mudiraj as a District Congress Committee president, given him an Assembly ticket and later inducted him into the Cabinet. Neelam Madhu was also given a party ticket to contest the Lok Sabha elections, he added. The chief minister asked BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar to take up the issue with TPCC president Mahesh Goud and seek an MLC ticket for a Mudiraj community representative. “It is my responsibility to ensure the Mudiraj community is made a partner in the government,” he said.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:49 AM

Congress Seeks Majority in Rangareddy District for Upcoming MLC Elections

HYDERABAD: Expressing confidence that the Congress would win the Graduates’ MLC elections, IT Minister D Sridhar Babu called on party cadres to work towards securing a large majority of votes from the erstwhile Rangareddy district. The Rangareddy District Congress unit organised a preparatory meeting at Shamshabad on Thursday for the upcoming Hyderabad-Rangareddy-Mahbubnagar Graduates’ MLC elections. Sridhar Babu, who is also the district in-charge minister, attended the meeting and advised party leaders on strengthening the Congress’s prospects. He said the enrolment of graduate voters should be treated as a priority and called on every leader and party worker to ensure that all eligible graduates registered as voters. He directed cadres to organise special enrolment drives at the village, municipality and ward levels. Stressing the need for booth-level coordination, Sridhar Babu asked party workers to reach out to graduate voters and explain the welfare and development initiatives undertaken by the Congress government. He also called on them to highlight what he described as the failures of the BRS and BJP through a coordinated campaign.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:48 AM

Odisha Sub-Collector Visits Kotia Panchayat, Finds Normalcy Amidst Election Notification

JEYPORE: Amid the raging political debate over Andhra Pradesh’s notification for panchayat polls in Kotia, Koraput sub-collector Fabi Rasheed on Thursday said no election-related activities were noticed during her visit to the bordering villages and the situation remained normal. The sub-collector visited Upper Sembi, Tala Sembi, Neredivalsa, Phatu Seneri and Phagunseneri in Kotia panchayat on Wednesday to assess the ground situation, and review welfare initiatives being implemented by the Odisha government. During her two-day visit, she interacted with villagers and sought feedback on the ongoing development works. She also enquired about the implementation of various government schemes and whether residents were receiving the intended benefits. “During my visit to Kotia, I reviewed the development works and interacted with the residents to understand their concerns. The villagers expressed satisfaction with the welfare programmes of the Odisha government and acknowledged that they were receiving the benefits,” said Rasheed. She further stated that no panchayat election-related activities were observed during her visit and normalcy prevailed in the villages. “There were no visible poll-related activities among the people during my visit. The situation was normal,” she said. The sub-collector’s visit assumes significance following Andhra Pradesh’s recent notification for panchayat elections in parts of Kotia, which has triggered strong reactions in Odisha and renewed concerns over the longstanding territorial dispute between the two states. The Koraput district administration has been undertaking development and welfare initiatives in the bordering panchayat as part of its efforts to strengthen administrative outreach and ensure that residents receive the benefits of government schemes

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:47 AM

Ex-Dalit Leader Criticizes Home Minister Over Allegations of Exam Tampering

BENGALURU: Former JDS MLA and Dalit leader K Annadani on Thursday criticised Home Minister Priyank Kharge for his silence on the allegation of tampering of OMR sheets in KPSC recruitment exams. Addressing reporters here along with former MLA Nisarga Narayanaswamy, Annadani said the alleged sting operation had brought disrepute to Karnataka. Claiming that a mediaperson had admitted to conducting the sting operation, Annadani sought to know why the government did not initiate any suo motu action in that regard. “Why has Priyank Kharge not responded to the allegation of Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy that OMR sheets of KPSC exams had been tampered with. He must first react to this allegation,” Annadani said. Referring to Priyank’s political background, Annadani said the minister should clarify on the allegations against him and the Congress government. “You are a minister, your father Mallikarjun Kharge is AICC president, and your brother-in-law Radhakrishna is an MP. You have held ministerial positions twice. Why have you not created opportunities for other Dalit leaders,” he said. Annadani said Priyank should not allow controversies involving those in power to damage the Dalit community’s reputation. He sought to know why leaders such as Anekal Shivanna and Bangarpet Narayanaswamy are not in the cabinet. “Do not use the Dalit community to suit your political interests. Those in power must ensure that other members of the community also get opportunities,” he said.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:44 AM

BJP Fields State President N Ramchander Rao as Candidate for Mahbubnagar-Rangareddy-Hyderabad Graduates' MLC Constituency

HYDERABAD: The BJP has decided to field its state president N Ramchander Rao as its candidate for the Mahbubnagar-Rangareddy-Hyderabad Graduates’ MLC constituency, according to party sources. An official announcement is expected next week or towards the end of the month. Sources said the party’s central leadership had finalised Ramchander Rao’s candidature after reviewing several survey reports and consulting leaders. The party had commissioned several surveys, including assessments by its internal strategy teams, to identify a candidate with the best prospects of winning the constituency. Most of the surveys reportedly favoured Ramchander Rao, who had earlier served as an MLC from the same constituency. Several leaders were seeking the ticket, but the party leadership is understood to have preferred Ramchander Rao. Sources said he had not expressed an interest in contesting, as he was occupied with party activities and protests against the Congress government. However, the leadership is keen to field a strong candidate to improve the BJP’s prospects.

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NorthEast Now

Oct 23, 2026, 03:32 AM

TIM Calls for Investigation into Killing of Meitei Civilians in Manipur, Alleges Kuki Militant Factional Dispute

The Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM) has called for a comprehensive investigation into the killing of three Meitei civilians at Sunurok Hills in Manipur’s Imphal East district, alleging that the attack may be linked to rivalries within Kuki militant factions and political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. The organisation welcomed the arrest of three alleged cadres of the Kuki National Front (Nehlun) but said investigators should examine the command structures and operational links between outlawed factions and groups that are signatories to the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement. According to TIM, two of the detained cadres have reportedly confessed to their involvement in the October 19 killings. TIM also cited the reported recovery of heavy weapons, ammunition, poppy straw and a Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO) identity card, alleging that the items pointed to a wider network involving militant and narcotics-related activities. It further alleged that some civil society organisations, including the KSO, function as fronts for SoO-linked militant groups. The organisation referred to the recent arrests of KSO-GHQ vice-president Jamkhomang Khongsai and United Kuki National Army chief Thangkhomang Haokip in support of its allegations. TIM claimed that the killings were connected to an internal power struggle within the Kuki National Front (Presidential) ahead of the 2027 Manipur Assembly elections. It alleged that KNF(P) Home Secretary Jangboi Kipgen, who the organisation said controls the Unified Command in Kangpokpi, was behind a network of proxies associated with the Kuki National Front (Nehlun). According to TIM, a dispute between KNF(P) president ST Thangboi Kipgen and Jangboi Kipgen over candidate endorsements for the Saitu and Kangpokpi Assembly constituencies had intensified divisions within the group. The organisation alleged that Jangboi Kipgen used proxy groups to intimidate villagers and influence voter turnout. It also linked the alleged factional dispute to efforts to disrupt Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen’s scheduled return to the state capital. TIM said public condemnations and denials by umbrella militant organisations should not prevent investigators from examining the possible involvement of senior leaders. It maintained that factional disputes could not justify attacks on civilians and called for accountability in the Sunurok killings. The allegations made by TIM were not independently verified.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:22 AM

Congress Accuses Centre of Copying Poll Promise, Criticizes PMIS for Failing to Deliver on Job Skills

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president and MP Manickam Tagore on Thursday accused the union government of copying the Congress’s ‘Pehli Naukri Pakki’ poll promise. He claimed the centre has failed to implement the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme (PMIS) effectively, citing low enrolment and completion rates. Tagore alleged that the scheme was being used to provide cheap labour to corporate entities rather than equip young people with professional skills and improve their employment prospects. In a statement, Tagore alleged that PMIS was introduced without understanding the objectives of the Congress proposal, which envisaged a year-long, legally guaranteed apprenticeship for young people. He said the scheme, which aims to provide internship opportunities to one crore youths over five years, had witnessed a decline in applications across its first three rounds. Citing official data from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, he said applications fell from 6.21 lakh in the first round to 4.55 lakh in the second and 3.5 lakh in the third. He also pointed to the low uptake of internship opportunities offered under the scheme. Of the 1,27,508 opportunities available in the first round, only 8,760 candidates joined. In the second round, 7,308 candidates joined and in the third round, 25,794 candidates received offers against 1,54,366 opportunities and only 14,620 joined, he said. Questioning the quality of training provided under the programme, the Congress leader said even among those who joined, only 3,731 completed training in the first round and 2,880 in the second round. “The country’s youth need genuine skill development and dignified employment opportunities, not publicity campaigns and empty promises,” he said.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:19 AM

Bengaluru Teachers' Constituency MLC Polls: Congress Candidate Denies Gift Voucher Allegations

BENGALURU: Congress candidate for the Bengaluru Teachers’ constituency MLC polls, Puttanna, has denied Opposition allegations that he distributed gift vouchers to voters, while counter-alleging that NDA candidate Ranganath of the JDS was luring voters with gifts. Puttanna said he had given voter cards as a Dasara gesture and denied that they were intended to influence the voters. “Those who want to verify the allegations can do so. I have not asked for votes through these cards. We distributed them only as a Dasara special gesture,” he said. Clarifying that the cards were meant to serve as greetings, Puttanna said they were given so that recipients would remember him during the election. He also referred to allegations concerning gift vouchers associated with a popular mall, questioning what the recipients could obtain from them and asserting that there was nothing improper about the cards that he had distributed. Puttanna, meanwhile, alleged that gifts such as sarees, watches and money were being offered to voters by the rival candidate. “I have contested five elections in my political career. I have never asked any government official to support my election, except teachers who are my friends. I do not approach officials seeking their support,” he said.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:17 AM

Election Violence Persists in Southern Andhra Pradesh as Nominations Continue

TIRUPATI/KADAPA/ANANTAPUR/KURNOOL/ONGOLE: There is no let-up in the violence on the second day of filing nominations for the ZPTC and MPTC elections in southern Andhra Pradesh, with tense situations continuing in Tirupati, Chittoor, Annamayya, Anantapur and Kurnool districts as well as some part of the erstwhile Prakasam district. During a clash between two rival factions within the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) at Nandaluru in Kadapa district, a TDP activist reportedly opened fire into the air, escalating local panic, a car being torched, two motorcycles damaged and TDP spokesperson Meda Vijayasekhar Reddy sustaining injuries before police used a lathi-charge. Meanwhile, similar volatile conditions were reported in other parts of the region, alongside confrontations between YSRCP cadre and police forces in Bestavaripeta of Markapuram district. The nomination process kicked off across the erstwhile Anantapur district — covering Sri Sathya Sai’s 397 MPTC and 32 ZPTC seats, alongside Anantapur’s 450 MPTC and 31 ZPTC seats — under a cloud of heavy political friction. YSRCP leaders alleged widespread obstruction and the tearing of papers across Raptadu, Atmakur, Chennekothapalli and Anantapur Rural mandals. In Yellanur mandal, Vengala Rayudu and his son were reportedly attacked while seeking a No-Objection Certificate at the Tahsildar’s office while in Palya Thanda of Pamidi mandal, a clash broke out resulting in a YSRCP worker being stabbed, though local reports suggested a prior personal dispute. Uravakonda coordinator Y Visweswar Reddy also alleged a candidate’s husband was briefly abducted and in Penukonda, former minister Ushasri Charan staged a protest after opposition candidates were blocked from filing papers, though the TDP secured a higher volume of filings overall on day one.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:14 AM

Raihan Vadra's Art Show Removed from Bikaner House Amidst Political Controversy

NEW DELHI: A day after 75 out of 105 photographs by Raihan Vadra, son of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, were taken down from Bikaner House, the artist said art knows no political boundary. His family backed him while the venue, owned by the Rajasthan government, claimed the “photographs breached guidelines” and were against policy. Raihan told TMS on Thursday that he’d asked what the venue’s policy was but had not received a “logical enough” response. On his mother’s social media post, he said, “My family has been very supportive about the entire issue and asked me to continue my work despite such a fiasco.” In the post addressed to Raihan, the MP said, “When someone with power becomes afraid of the expression of another, he doesn’t know it, but he has already lost the very power he is trying to protect.” Meanwhile, Raihan was looking for a place to display the entire solo show, ‘No Idea Is Final’, with Travancore Palace emerging as an option. Refuting BJP’s charges that he was being positioned for a political role, Raihan said, “This art is my politics... I have no plans to join any party... and anyway, art is political.”

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:10 AM

Ex-TDP MLA Gunda Lakshmi Devi Joins YSR Congress Party in Major Political Shift

VIJAYAWADA: In a major political shift in Srikakulam district, former MLA Gunda Lakshmi Devi joined the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) on Thursday, severing a nearly four-decade-long family association with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). She was welcomed into the party fold along with her key followers by YSRCP president and former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy at the party’s central office in Tadepalli, presenting them with party scarves. Lakshmi Devi’s induction marks the end of a long-standing legacy with the TDP. Her late husband, former minister Gunda Appala Suryanarayana, was a prominent political figure who won as an MLA four times and served as a minister twice. Continuing the family’s political footprint, Lakshmi Devi herself was elected as the Srikakulam MLA on a TDP ticket during the 2014 general elections. Along with Lakshmi Devi, several local leaders and supporters switched loyalties.

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Free Press Journal

Oct 23, 2026, 03:08 AM

Pilibhit Electoral Roll Accuracy Questioned Amid Allegations of Large-Scale Manipulation

Lucknow: Serious questions have been raised over the accuracy of electoral rolls in Pilibhit after a preliminary Congress probe allegedly found different voter names and fathers’ names recorded against the same Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number in the Pilibhit Sadar Assembly constituency following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). The controversy comes amid administrative action against two sub-divisional magistrates (SDMs), Mayank Goswami of Puranpur and Hemant Chaudhary of Amaria, who have been attached to the district headquarters following a preliminary inquiry. However, the administration has not officially confirmed whether the action against the two officers is directly linked to the alleged discrepancies in the electoral rolls. According to Congress spokesperson and advocate Hemant Mishra, the party conducted a sample verification of the electoral roll in the Sadar constituency and found instances in which the same EPIC number was associated with different voter names and fathers’ names. The exact nature of the discrepancies, the stage at which they occurred and those responsible for them will be established only after the inquiry is completed. The Uttar Pradesh Congress has alleged large-scale manipulation of electoral records in Pilibhit. At a press conference at the party’s state headquarters on Wednesday, senior leaders claimed that the details of 13,150 voters in Pilibhit Sadar were changed after the final draft of the electoral roll was published. State in-charge Rajendra Pal Gautam said the final draft of the SIR electoral roll in Uttar Pradesh was published on April 10. Voters were expected to be able to verify their names, addresses, EPIC numbers and serial numbers in the published list. However, the Congress alleged that between July and September, the names of 13,150 voters in Assembly constituency 127, Pilibhit Sadar, were changed even though their EPIC and serial numbers remained the same. The party claimed that such changes could go unnoticed by voters who believed their details had remained unchanged. The Congress further alleged that the names of 884 voters who continued to reside in the constituency were deleted despite their submitting applications stating that they still lived there. It also claimed that 2,600 voters were added to the list even though they did not reside at the addresses concerned. The party has claimed that the discrepancies involved a total of 16,554 voter records in the constituency. It said it would seek legal advice and approach the court over the alleged irregularities. District Magistrate Alok Kumar said the two SDMs had been attached to the district headquarters on the basis of a preliminary inquiry. The investigation is continuing, and the process of revising the electoral roll will be carried out in accordance with the rules. Goswami was posted as SDM of Amaria tehsil, which falls under the Pilibhit Sadar Assembly constituency, during the SIR exercise. Chaudhary was serving as SDM of Amaria at the time of the administrative action. Their roles, if any, in the alleged discrepancies have not been officially established. Further action may follow depending on the findings of the inquiry. Meanwhile, the Congress has begun examining electoral rolls in other Assembly constituencies in Pilibhit district to determine whether similar discrepancies exist elsewhere. The investigation will have to establish whether the cases involving identical EPIC numbers resulted from data-entry errors, procedural lapses or other irregularities. The findings are likely to be crucial in determining the extent of the alleged discrepancies and whether responsibility needs to be fixed at any level.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:07 AM

Andhra Pradesh High Court Directs SEC to Provide Details on Petition Against Pulivendula DSP

VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Thursday directed the State Election Commission (SEC) to submit complete details on a petition filed by YSRCP leader and Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy seeking the removal of YSR Kadapa district’s Pulivendula DSP Murali Naik from election duties over alleged partisan conduct favouring the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Justice Alapati Giridhar adjourned the hearing to Friday after the SEC sought time to gather details of the matter. Counsel VR Reddy Kovvuri, appearing for Avinash Reddy, alleged that Murali Naik was acting in favour of the ruling party by registering cases against opposition leaders injured in attacks while allegedly sparing those responsible for the assaults. The counsel alleged that the DSP had acted in a biased manner during the Pulivendula ZPTC by-election on August 12, 2025. He claimed that 300 to 400 ruling party supporters had prevented voters from exercising their franchise freely near polling stations, allegedly with the DSP’s support.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:06 AM

BJP Accuses Congress Candidate of Distributing Gifts to Influence Voters in Karnataka Election

BENGALURU: With the Bengaluru Teachers’ Constituency election to the Karnataka Legislative Council scheduled for Friday, Leader of the Opposition in the Council and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy on Thursday accused Congress candidate Puttanna of distributing gift coupons worth up to `15,000, flasks, tiffin boxes and cash to influence voters. A delegation led by Narayanaswamy and NDA candidate AP Ranganath of the Janata Dal (Secular) submitted a complaint to the election authorities in Bengaluru, seeking action against 17 Block Education Officers (BEOs) and other education department officials allegedly involved in the distribution. Addressing the media after lodging the complaint, Narayanaswamy alleged that gift coupons were being distributed in the name of Dasara greetings and could be redeemed at a famous mall. He claimed that the coupons carried numbers indicating values of Rs 5,000, Rs 10,000 and `15,000. “Gift coupons are being distributed through BEOs, and voters are allegedly being lured with money and gifts. Is this the kind of politics through which one wants to become an MLC?” the BJP leader said, demanding that FIRs be registered against officials found to be involved. Narayanaswamy alleged that some BEOs and Deputy Directors of Public Instruction had visited Puttanna’s residence before reporting to their offices. He claimed that the distribution of gift coupons had reinforced his earlier allegations about the officials’ involvement in the election campaign. He also alleged that cash had been distributed in envelopes to two people from the Devanahalli region, identified as Muniraju and Bidalapura, followed by the distribution of tiffin boxes. Accusing the Congress government of misusing its administrative machinery to influence the election, Narayanaswamy alleged that voters werebeing threatened with consequences if they did not support the Ruling party.

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India TV

Oct 23, 2026, 03:06 AM

Polls Underway for 28 Legislative Council Seats in Four Indian States

Polling for 28 Legislative Council seats in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Karnataka and Maharashtra is underway from 8 am today (23rd October). Voters of graduate and teacher constituencies will elect their representatives on these seats. Voting began at 8 am and will go on till 4 pm today. The seats going to polls in UP-Bihar-Maharashtra and Karnataka include 8 seats in Bihar, 4 in Karnataka, 5 in Maharashtra and 11 in Uttar Pradesh. Politics is already in full swing regarding the voting to be held on all the seats. Major political parties have fielded their candidates on these seats. The results of this election in Bihar and UP will be awaited. The result of the voting on all these seats will be announced on 27th October.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 03:05 AM

Andhra Pradesh SEC Allows Fresh Nominations in Four Urban Local Bodies Amid Election Violence

VIJAYAWADA: In compliance with the directions of the Supreme Court, the Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission (SEC) on Thursday, decided to allow fresh nominations for specific sensitive wards where obstruction was legally established in four Urban Local Bodies—Kadapa Municipal Corporation, Rajampet and Mydukur Municipalities in Kadapa district, and Tirupati Municipal Corporation in Tirupati district. The fresh filing of nominations in these ULBs will be allowed on October 23 and 24, 2026, between 11 am and 3 pm. Considering the revised dates for nominations in these ULBs, polling for all 100 ULBs has been rescheduled to November 1, with vote counting set for November 3, 2026. This major electoral intervention comes as a direct result of petitions filed by the YSRCP in the Supreme Court, challenging widespread violence, physical attacks, intimidation, and forcible obstruction of opposition candidates during the initial nomination phase held from October 16 to 18, 2026. After reviewing extensive field reports, video footage, and electronic evidence submitted by aggrieved parties under apex court directions, the SEC established that prospective candidates in select sensitive wards had been wrongfully prevented from filing their papers. In strict compliance with the Supreme Court’s orders on October 21, the SEC halted the ongoing election process on October 21 to provide aggrieved aspirants a fair opportunity to contest. To ensure a secure environment and prevent any recurrence of law and order disruptions, the SEC has expanded the filing infrastructure for the extended window. In addition to the previously notified Returning Officer centres, nomination papers will also be received within the secure premises of respective district collectorates as specified by the district election authorities.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 02:59 AM

Karnataka Deputy CM Seeks ₹62,481 Crore in Compensation for Drought-Related Crop Losses

BENGALURU: Karnataka Deputy CM and Revenue Minister G Parameshwara has written to the Union government, seeking `62,481 crore as compensation for losses due to the prevailing drought situation in Karnataka. In his letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers Amit Shah and Shivaraj Singh Chauhan, he said Karnataka has suffered crop losses estimated at over Rs 62,000 crore due to the drought. He sought their personal intervention and release of financial assistance to Karnataka. In the letter, the DCM mentioned that crop losses have been reported across 57.93 lakh hectares, and assessed losses range from 33 per cent to 100 per cent, with a majority of affected areas reporting damage exceeding 50 per cent. Citing deficit rainfall, he said the state has received only 551mm during the Southwest monsoon, while normal rainfall should have been 852mm. This is the second lowest seasonal rainfall since 1956. According to him, of 122 monsoon days, 79 days recorded deficit rainfall. Prolonged dry spells have devastated standing crops, and disrupted agricultural operations that placed a strain on rural households. The state has declared 226 taluks as drought-hit. The Deputy Chief Minister also said the government had submitted a plea for NDRF assistance of Rs 20,585crore that includes cattle protection, drinking water, crop loss input subsidy etc. The livelihoods of around 61.91 lakh small and marginal farmers have been affected.

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Dainik Bhaskar

Oct 23, 2026, 02:45 AM

Israel's Upcoming Elections: Little Hope for Major Change in Palestinian Lives

Israel is due to hold elections on October 27. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's survival will be decided by the people, but there is little hope that this election will bring any major change in the lives of the Palestinians. The reason is that most of the parties opposed to Netanyahu are also not in favor of making Palestine a separate country. After the war in Gaza, many resolutions against the Palestinians were supported in the Israeli parliament. Even the left-wing parties that previously talked about an agreement with Palestine and a path to two separate countries are seeing a change in their agenda. Despite the change of power, it seems difficult for the Palestinians to change the situation. In most countries of the world, the left-wing parties talk about helping the poor and weaker sections, increasing government spending, and the rights of the migrants. The right-wing parties insist on keeping the country's borders, reducing government interference in trade, and national identity. The left and right-wing parties in Israel have been negotiating with the right-wing parties to resolve their differences.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 02:37 AM

Kerala Government Accords Official Farewell to Outgoing Governor Rajendra Arlekar

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Marking a contrast with the strained ties between the state government and the Lok Bhavan, the UDF government accorded an official farewell to outgoing Governor Rajendra Arlekar on his last day in office, on Thursday. The event assumes significance as Arlekar’s predecessor, Arif Mohammed Khan, had left Keralam without an official send-off from the LDF government. Tensions between the government and Lok Bhavan had peaked during Khan’s tenure, largely over the appointment of vice-chancellors to state universities. During the farewell banquet at Grand Hyatt hotel, Chief Minister V D Satheesan said the government had maintained warm relations with Arlekar. He conveyed the government’s and people’s gratitude to the governor and wished him success. Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said Arlekar had made efforts to work in coordination with the government, while Speaker Thiruvanchur Radhakrishnan described him as a governor who had interacted closely with ordinary people. In his reply, Arlekar said he had merely reciprocated the affection shown to him by the people of Keralam.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 02:35 AM

Delhi MCD Meeting Descends into Chaos Over Air Pollution and Development Funds

NEW DELHI: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) House witnessed chaotic scenes on Thursday, with councillors throwing papers, damaging microphones and nearly coming to blows. Mayor Parvesh Wahi tried to restore order and even announced additional development funds of Rs 25 lakh for each ward, but the Opposition remained unconvinced. The session was eventually adjourned, with marshals escorting the mayor to safety. The chaos began when BJP and AAP councillors clashed during a discussion on the capital’s worsening air pollution and cleanliness. Soon after the mayor introduced the debate, AAP councillors demanded the immediate release of Rs 1 crore in development funds for their wards, triggering an uproar. Wahi announced an immediate allocation of Rs 25 lakh and said Rs 2 crore would be made available to councillors during the current financial year. The Opposition rejected the announcement and pressed for a higher immediate allocation. During the heated exchange, Wahi said, “I am giving you Rs 25 lakh at least; you never gave anybody anything.” Sloganeering intensified as AAP councillors moved towards the well of the House, forcing a five-minute adjournment. When the House reconvened, the discussion turned to Delhi’s air pollution, with Opposition members questioning the civic body’s efforts to tackle the crisis. The exchange escalated, with BJP and AAP councillors threatening physical confrontation.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 02:33 AM

Satchidananda Loses Presidential Election at Sivagiri Mutt

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a major setback that could reshape power equations at Sivagiri Mutt, incumbent president Swami Satchidananda lost the election to the Sreenarayana Dharma Sangham Trust board for 2026-2031. In a closely fought election, 11 members were elected, including incumbent general secretary Swami Subhangananda, who secured 29 votes, and former general secretary Swami Rithambharananda, who polled 24. The panel led by Subhagananda has now six members and is likely to steer the new administration, which will govern the Mutt for five years. The verdict assumes significance amid the current political dynamics. Satchidananda shares warm ties with the ruling Congress but has had a strained relationship with SNDP Yogam general secretary Vellappally Natesan. Incumbent treasurer Swami Saradananda, former president Swami Visudhanandan and former general secretary Swami Sandrananda, all part of a rival panel, were among those re-elected. The newly elected members are Swami Anapekshananda, Swami Nithyaswaroopananda, Swami Dharmachaithanya, Swami Yogananda, Swami Ambikananda and Swami Guruprakasham. Anapekshananda had served on the board of directors. Sources said six of the elected members had served on the existing or earlier boards, while five were new sanyasis. Six members of the Subhangananda panel won, while Swami Visudhananda, Swami Saradananda and Swami Sandrananda belonged to a rival panel. The election, conducted by retired district judge K Viswanathan Nair, saw 32 candidates contest for the board.

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ABP News✓

Oct 23, 2026, 02:29 AM

Thakur Slams Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhu Over Constantly Changing Statements

Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and the Congress government in the state, alleging that the people of the state as well as Congress leaders and ministers were upset with the constantly changing statements and false promises of the Chief Minister.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 02:26 AM

Delay in Appointing KPCC President Affects Congress Functioning in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The delay in appointing a new KPCC president has affected the functioning of the Congress in districts as the appointment of District Congress Committee presidents too remains affected. As many as five DCC presidents are now MLAs, adding legislative responsibilities to their organisational roles. DCC chiefs N Shaktan (Thiruvananthapuram), Mohammed Shiyas (Ernakulam), V S Joy (Malappuram), Praveenkumar (Kozhikode) and Nattakom Suresh (Kottayam) were elected to the assembly. “Four of them are first-time MLAs, and these constituencies were wrested from LDF. They will have to be present in the constituency and focus on development projects to retain the seats. Handling the DCC and constituency will affect their performance,” said a senior Congress leader. With the party gearing up for restructuring and addressing issues related to inner-party coordination, DCCs play a crucial role in strengthening it at the grassroots and maintaining coordination between the government, party leadership and local workers. “Grassroots workers should be aware of the government’s projects and initiatives. They are the ones who defend the government and the party in public. There should be a strong DCC and efficient district-level leaders to coordinate and strengthen the party mechanism. Just because the Congress-led UDF is in power, we cannot compromise on the functioning of the party,” said an insider, adding that new DCC chiefs were appointed five years ago and the leadership may consider change of guard in all 14 districts. However, discussions on the appointments are expected to begin only after a new KPCC president is appointed. Though several names have been discussed for the post after Sunny Joseph expressed willingness to step down, the leadership is yet to finalise its choice.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 02:23 AM

CPM Leads Opposition Coordination Against Electoral Roll Revision

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It is a dream comeback for the CPM, relegated to the sidelines of national politics for over a decade. With its combined strength in both Houses of Parliament countable on one hand, the party has emerged as the rallying force behind the agitation against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.Despite its declining electoral fortunes, the CPM has brought parties beyond the Congress-led INDIA bloc together around the agitation. By uniting forces across the political spectrum, the party has reasserted its role in opposition coordination at a critical juncture in national politics. CPM general secretary M A Baby’s letter to opposition leaders, urging a united response to developments involving the Election Commission, proved decisive.He even reached out to the party’s bete noire in West Bengal, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, seeking her support for the agitation. Baby also met AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal to broaden the campaign, despite the latter’s differences with the Congress leadership. “After reports emerged about the SIR row, our available politburo (PB) realised on September 23 that the issue could trigger a paradigm shift in the agitation against the Election Commission and the Union government,” Baby told TNIE. The PB decided to reach out to all non-NDA parties, including those outside the INDIA bloc, to build a common platform for joint action,he said. The outreach included the Shiromani Akali Dal, Biju Janata Dal, Makkal Needhi Maiam, AAP and Trinamool Congress, among others. This was followed by an INDIA bloc coordination meeting on September 30, where opposition leaders agreed on a joint programme of political action against the SIR and the EC. The October 10 protest in Delhi brought together leaders from parties often divided over political strategy and their ties with the Congress. The participation of Pinarayi Vijayan,Manik Sarkar,Mamata and Kejriwal underscored the breadth of the mobilisation.

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Dainik Jagran

Oct 23, 2026, 02:23 AM

Uttarakhand Government Clears GST Amendments

JAGRAN Correspondent, DEHRADUN: The Dhami government has taken a major step towards regularising the amendments made in three important provisions of the GST in Uttarakhand. The state cabinet has cleared the way for these amendments to be tabled in the assembly in the form of a bill. This paves the way for legislative approval to the amendments related to tax benefits on post-sale rebates, issuance of credit notes, and refund facility to manufacturers with inverted tax structure. According to the press note issued by the Finance Department (State Tax Department), the Uttarakhand Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 has been amended in line with the changes made in the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017. For this, the Uttarakhand Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026 was issued on 3rd September 2026. Now this ordinance is being restored in the assembly in the form of a bill. Section 15 of the GST Act prescribes the value of taxable supplies.

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Dainik Jagran

Oct 23, 2026, 02:23 AM

Madan Mitra Hints at Retiring from Politics Amidst Increased Immorality and Violence

Madan Mitra, the TMC MLA from Kamarhati, who is known for his unique style in Bengal politics, has hinted at retiring from politics. On the occasion of Vijayadashami, an emotional Madan Mitra said that immoral activities have increased in the current politics and now he has started hating it. He said that being a part of politics, he also hates himself. However, he has not made any formal announcement about quitting politics. He said that this time on Vijayadashami, he could not meet the people who made him win the election. He cited violence and security concerns as the reason. According to him, there was also an attempt to assassinate him. He claimed that the Chief Minister had also instructed the police in this regard. He claimed that he is very tired of politics and is now thinking of getting away from it. On the occasion of Vijayadashami, an emotional Madan Mitra said that when the number of immoral people increases a lot, it is difficult for him to separate from the Trinamool Congress.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 02:22 AM

India: Protesters Demand Restoration of Democracy Amid Electoral Roll Controversy

NEW DELHI: As controversy over alleged irregularities in the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls rages on, those opposed to the exercise are set to hit the streets on Friday, October 23, across the country to “restore democracy”. The protest, called by a body named “People against SIR”, has exhorted the INDIA grouping to join what it is describing as the “people’s march to restore democracy and Jantar Mantar protests”. Urging the masses to take part in the agitation, the organisation claimed, “Indian democracy is in a very deep crisis. The electoral process has been hijacked. The voter list has been manipulated. The above-the-law Election Commission has been handpicked to unashamedly and singularly serve Modi-Shah. The time has come for us to pour into the streets and say ‘Stop the attack on our democracy’.” Those associated with the call include actor Prakash Raj, advocate Prashant Bhushan, economist Parakala Prabhakar (husband of Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman), farmer leader Rakesh Tikait and activist Tushar Gandhi (great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi). The Cockroach Janta Party’s Abhijeet Dipke, All India Students’ Association (AISA) president Neha Bora, and Students’ Federation of India (SFI) leader Aishe Ghosh are also said to be involved.

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Indian Express

Oct 23, 2026, 02:20 AM

Congress Party Cautious on Former Chief Minister Shankersinh Vaghela's Potential Re-entry

All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary and in-charge of party affairs in Gujarat Randeep Singh Surjewala was guarded when asked about former Chief Minister Shankersinh Vaghela’s re-entry into the party, after almost a decade. Responding to a question at a press conference in Rajkot, Surjewala said, “Whenever there is any discussion (about his return), we will inform you – our friends in the media – first.” Vaghela last month confirmed that he had discussed the issue with Surjewala, Gujarat Congress chief Amit Chavda and former Union minister Bharatsinh Solanki, but stressed that his return would be only after a meeting with Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi.

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Dainik Jagran

Oct 23, 2026, 02:18 AM

Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council Elections: Voting Underway for 11 Seats

Polling will be held on Friday for 11 seats of the Legislative Council, including five Graduates'and six Teachers'constituencies. Polling will be held from 8 am to 4 pm. A total of 14.81 lakh voters are registered in these seats. 2697 polling stations have been set up in 72 districts. A total of 152 candidates are in the fray. Liquor shops will remain closed during this period. At the same time, all such employees and teachers who are voters will get a special casual leave on Friday to cast their votes. Graduates'constituencies include Lucknow, Varanasi, Agra, Meerut and Allahabad-Jhansi seats. Teachers'constituencies include Lucknow, Varanasi, Agra, Meerut, Bareilly-Moradabad and Gorakhpur-Faizabad seats. Polling will be held in all except Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat and Unnao. These districts fall under the Kanpur Division Graduates'and Kanpur Division Teachers'constituencies whose term is till February 2029. Graduates'constituencies have 74 voters and teachers'constituencies have 78 voters in the Lucknow Division. ID6 has been set up in 4 polling stations. Graduates'constituencies are in the Agra Division.

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Siasat News✓

Oct 23, 2026, 02:15 AM

Uttar Pradesh Election Authorities Launch Legal Action Over Voter Registration Irregularities

The Uttar Pradesh election authorities have ordered legal action against two serving and former electoral registration officers and the dismissal of a computer assistant after finding irregularities in 10,470 voter entries in the Pilibhit Assembly constituency, officials said on Thursday. According to a statement issued by Uttar Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Navdeep Rinwa’s office in Lucknow, a detailed inquiry found that a computer assistant at the Voter Registration Centre entered 13,779 Form-8 applications for changes in voter details between May 31 and August 29, 2026. Of these, 10,470 were approved, and 3,309 were rejected. No application forms or supporting records related to these entries were found available in the office, the statement said. The authorities have directed legal action against the computer assistant and the two Electoral Registration Officers (ERO) who were posted in the constituency during the periods under scrutiny under Section 32 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Departmental proceedings have also been ordered against both officers. The role of the assistant electoral registration officers is also being examined, the statement said. In Pilibhit, District Magistrate Alok Kumar said departmental inquiries have been initiated against Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDM) Mayank Goswami and Hemant Chaudhary following a preliminary investigation into the matter. Addressing reporters on Thursday evening, Kumar said the two officers were responsible for preparing the voter list during the period under scrutiny. They have been attached to the district headquarters. The computer operator, identified as Anil Kumar, has been dismissed, he said. A controversy emerged after complaints that some Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers displayed details belonging to other voters. The Congress alleged that 13,150 voters in the Pilibhit Sadar constituency had identical EPIC numbers despite having different names and fathers’ names. The Samajwadi Party also raised similar concerns. The election authorities have ordered a detailed examination of all Form-6 applications for inclusion of names and Form-7 applications for deletion of names entered by the computer assistant between April 10 and October 21, with a report sought within a day. Correction of the irregular Form-8 entries in accordance with prescribed norms is also underway, the statement said. Uttar Pradesh Congress on Wednesday alleged large-scale manipulation of electoral rolls in Pilibhit Sadar Assembly constituency, claiming that names of 13,150 voters were changed even as their EPIC and serial numbers remained the same. Following this, CEO Rinwa directed that the ERO and the VRC operator of Pilibhit be immediately removed from voter-list-related duties and legal action be initiated against them, as an inquiry into the matter confirmed irregularities.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 02:11 AM

Ancient Hero Stone Uncovered in Tamil Nadu Reveals Insights into Early Writing Practices and Political Hierarchy

COIMBATORE: A nearly 1,500-year-old hero stone from the reign of Pallava king Simhavishnu at Malluthu in Dharmapuri district records a warrior’s death in a cattle raid conflict and also sheds light on political hierarchy and early Tamil writing practices. Written in Vattelutthu, the rare inscription naming the sixth-century ruler commemorates Keeranthai Maayan, who died during the conflict at Uthappi, and refers to the territorial division of Kovur Nadu. “He is identified as a subordinate leader serving under a local chief called Kangilavaraisar and as a retainer of Simhavishnu. These references provide valuable evidence for understanding the political relationships and hierarchical structures that existed in the region during the Pallava period,” said Kumaravel Ramasamy, who leads the Yaakkai Trust, which documented two hero stones. Simhavishnu was the father of Mahendravarman I, from whose reign rock-cut cave temples survive in Tamil Nadu. Renowned historian and epigraphist Y Subbarayalu, who confirmed the Malluthu inscription’s text and significance, told TNIE that surviving dots helped researchers interpret the writing accurately. “Barring a few inscriptions, the practice of placing dots gradually disappeared after the ninth century. For instance, the Tamil word for calf, ‘kandru’, could be read as ‘ka-na-ru’ without the dots, and only someone familiar with Tamil could understand the intended meaning from the context. Since placing dots would damage palm leaves (olai), the practice was not followed in stone inscriptions either,” he said.

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ABP News✓

Oct 23, 2026, 02:08 AM

Violence Erupts in Andhra Pradesh During Local Body Elections

Andhra Pradesh witnessed violence at several places on Thursday (October 22) during nominations for local body elections. Car was set on fire during the violence. Workers of the ruling Telugu Desam Party and the opposition YSR Congress clashed. Both sides pelted stones at each other and indulged in vandalism. YSR accused the TDP after the violence. While the TDP took a jibe at YSR. YSR wrote on X, "During the local body elections in Andhra Pradesh, TDP goons have murdered democracy. They went on a rampage. TDP goons have committed a heinous act, they pulled the saris of YSRCP women candidates at the nomination centres. They also assaulted a nine-month pregnant woman, and tore her nomination papers."

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NorthEast Now

Oct 23, 2026, 02:00 AM

Dimapur District Sees Significant Reduction in Electors Following Special Intensive Revision

Dimapur Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer Tinojongshi Chang on Thursday said that 36,629 electors across three Assembly constituencies in Dimapur district were deleted during the 2026 Special Intensive Revision (SIR), bringing the total number of electors in the draft electoral roll down from 1,25,703 in 2025 to 89,074. Presenting the summary report on the draft electoral roll published under SIR 2026 at a review meeting at the DC’s office, Chang said Dimapur-I recorded 8,749 deletions, reducing the number of electors from 25,525 in 2025 to 16,776 in the draft roll. Dimapur-II had 60,920 electors in 2025, of whom 19,605 were deleted, leaving 41,315 in the draft roll. Dimapur-III recorded 39,258 electors in 2025, but 8,275 names were deleted, leaving 30,983 electors in the draft roll. The meeting also reviewed the progress of notice generation and delivery, along with the receipt and disposal of forms under the revision exercise. As of October 22, a total of 53,806 notices were required to be generated, of which 53,797 had been generated. Of these, 50,835 notices had been delivered, while 2,962 were pending delivery. The Assembly constituency-wise summary showed that 2,943 forms had been received between July 26 and October 20, with 939 forms pending disposal across the three constituencies. The meeting was attended by Dimapur district electoral roll observer Sotsula, Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) and representatives of recognised political parties in the district. Sotsula enquired about issues that might have arisen during field verification, including cases involving deaths, spelling errors and other difficulties faced by election officials and political party representatives. She said electoral records must be accurate, transparent and up to date. She also said proper evidence should be maintained in cases where individuals refused to accept forms. She urged officials and political party representatives to bring any difficulties or concerns to her attention so that they could be addressed appropriately.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 01:49 AM

Jamia Students Demand Union Restoration Amid Political Support

NEW DELHI: Students gathered in large numbers on Thursday for a general body meeting demanding the restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students’ Union (JMISU) and the announcement of an election schedule. The meeting at Ghalib Lawn was followed by a march in which students wore black coats, as the agitation on the campus intensified. The mobilisation came a day after the university administration constituted a panel to reconstitute the students’ union. The varsity authorities also organised a counter march against the ongoing agitation. However, the students said the hunger strike would continue until the university notified the election schedule. The meeting, called by several student organisations in support of the ongoing hunger strike, saw the participation of hundreds. Resolutions concerning the future structure and functioning of the union also surfaced in the meeting. The protest assumes political significance as it drew leaders from different parties, with Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi and National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) president Vinod Jakhar visiting the campus. AAP MLA Amanatullah Khan also met Vice-Chancellor Mazhar Asif to raise the students’ demands. The students’ mobilisation comes amid renewed pressure on the university to restore the elected representative body, whose elections have remained discontinued since 2006.

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Amar Ujala

Oct 23, 2026, 01:46 AM

Putin Downplays Russian Threat, Citing Historical Record of Being a Formidable Force

Putin said that even in past centuries, those who tried to defeat Russia finally understood that it was better to be friends with Russia. He questioned the statements of European countries about the threat from Russia.

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India TV

Oct 23, 2026, 01:42 AM

Opposition Criticizes India's Chief Election Commissioner Amid Electoral Malpractice Allegations

The opposition is up in arms against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over the SIR and electoral malpractices. Meanwhile, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday said that if the opposition brings a fresh proposal to remove Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, the due process will be followed and there will be no change in it.

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ABP News✓

Oct 23, 2026, 01:37 AM

Iran Unveils 'Father of All Bombs' as Tensions Rise with US

In the realm of global geopolitics and military balance, the term "father of all bombs" has once again become the focus of serious concern and international discussion. Hossein Mohebbi, a spokesman for Iran's powerful military organization, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has publicly announced that Tehran is preparing to introduce an extremely powerful new military weapon, which is being dubbed the "father of all bombs." This statement is seen as a direct response to indications from the United States that Washington was considering the possibility of using its heaviest conventional weapon, the GBU-43 / B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), popularly called the "mother of all bombs," to destroy Iran's secure and deep underground military bases. This new military development not only increases tensions between the two conventional military superpowers, but also makes the late Iranian physicist General Fahad Hussein the main instigator of Iran's nuclear weapons program.

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 01:27 AM

Bihar Legislative Council Polls: NDA and Mahagathbandhan Face Challenges from JSP and Independents

PATNA: Over 5.32 lakh voters will decide the fate of 150 candidates in Bihar’s eight legislative council seats on Friday, with the NDA and Mahagathbandhan facing stiff challenges from Jan Suraaj Party (JSP) and Independent candidates. While Prashant Kishor’s JSP-backed candidates are contesting on all eight seats, in all 150 are trying their luck in the polls, including 90 for the four graduates’ constituencies -- Patna, Darbhanga, Kosi and Tirhut—and 60 for four teachers’ seats—Patna, Darbhanga, Tirhut and Saran. All sitting representatives are in the fray and face close contests. The ruling alliance’s main challenge is internal discord. JD (U) MLA Anant Singh has rebelled against party candidate Neeraj Kumar in Patna graduates’ constituency. He has come out in support of JSP candidate Anuj Singh, alleging that Kumar had worked against him in last year’s assembly polls. Mahagathbandhan allies have failed to reach a seat-sharing arrangement, resulting in contests among RJD, Congress and candidates backed by Left parties on several seats. RJD has fielded candidates on six seats and Congress on five, making contest for their respective candidates tough.

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ABP News✓

Oct 23, 2026, 01:25 AM

Seven Oil Tankers Damaged in Strait of Hormuz Amid Ongoing Iran-US Tensions

Amid the ongoing war between Iran and the US, seven oil tankers are reported to have been damaged in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state television on Thursday quoted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy as saying that four tankers caught fire after being targeted while transferring oil, while three others were damaged and unable to move after being hit by naval mines. Reuters has also mentioned this report. Meanwhile, Iran's top security official has warned that if Iran's assets were attacked, the economic infrastructure of countries supporting the war could also be targeted. Iranian state television reports did not provide information on the flags of the ships, possible casualties, or other circumstances of the damage. If the news of the loss of the seven ships is confirmed, it would be the largest IRGC shipwreck in one strategic waterway since the start of the Iran war on February 28. Reports from the IRGC have warned of the loss of oil in one of the strait's parts if the United States attempts to damage another.

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ABP News✓

Oct 23, 2026, 01:21 AM

Akhilesh Yadav Meets Azam Khan in Rampur Jail Amid Political Tensions

Samajwadi Party national president Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday met senior SP leader and former minister Azam Khan in Rampur jail.

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Dainik Jagran

Oct 23, 2026, 01:16 AM

Indian Railways Launches New Line Connecting Panna and Sidhi Districts

On Saturday, for the first time since independence, Indian Railways will carry passengers up to Panna and Sidhi district of Vindhya. The new rail line between Satna-Devinder Nagar and Rewa-Churhat under Lalitpur-Singrauli rail section is ready. West Central Railway has completed preparations to run passenger trains. On October 24, the inauguration ceremonies of the new line will be held at Nagaud and Churhat railway stations. The first passenger train on these tracks will also be flagged off. A special rake for the launch train has been ordered from North Central Railway (NCR) which has reached Satna. The longest rail tunnel of the state built on Rewa-Churhat railway section will also start regular rail traffic with the inauguration. The tunnel construction has added difficult areas of Vindhya on the rail map. (Note: except Sunday, the remaining six days of the week will be operational.) The event at Nagaud will be attended by Minister of State for Urban Development and Housing Pratima Khajuri Bagri, MP Vishnu Vishnu Dutt, MP from Churhat, MP Dr. Rajendra Singh Vaishnav, MP from Churhat.

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Amar Ujala

Oct 23, 2026, 01:11 AM

Voter Turnout Figures for Zila Parishad Elections: Bikaner Leads the Pack

District-wise figures of polling for Zila Parishad till 6 pm: Bikaner tops with 71.28%. Jhalawar with 68.35% and Jaipur with 67.60% voter turnout recorded. Pali with 47.89% is at the bottom among districts with lowest voter turnout. Sirohi with 55.66% and Rajsamand with 56.37%. Also Read - Jaipur: Massive fire at gold jewellery factory, two employees killed; five unconscious Highest Polling Percentage in Bikaner 71.28% Jhalawar 68.35% Jaipur 67.60% Lowest Polling Percentage in Pali 47.89% Sirohi 55.66% Rajsamand with 79.55% in Barmer's Mangta Panchayat Samiti in Panchayat Samitis. Nai Panchayat Samiti of Udaipur and Adel Panchayat Samiti of Barmer with 77.55% were the lowest in Pali Panchayat Samiti and Pali Panchayat Samiti of Marwar.

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Indian Express

Oct 23, 2026, 01:10 AM

Indian Cabinet Reshuffle: Arjun Singh Appointed, Arun Nehru Dropped; Soviet Union Expels US Diplomats

In a major reshuffle, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi inducted Arjun Singh into the cabinet and dropped Arun Nehru. While Singh gets the Communications portfolio, J Vengal Rao has been given Industry. N D Tiwari is the Minister for External Affairs. Shiv Shanker now retains only Commerce. ‘Heavyweights’ inducted Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi said he had inducted some “heavyweights” into his Council of Ministers to give added dynamism to the government. Asked about the re-induction of Arjun Singh, the PM remarked, “We require experienced and able people.” Tripathi on Arjun Singh Congress (I) working president Kamlapati Tripathi welcomed Arjun Singh’s removal from the party post of vice-president. Asked for his comment on Singh’s induction into the Council of Ministers, Tripathi said, “ He is now the right person in the right place.” Tit-for-tat expulsions In retaliation for the expulsion of 55 Soviet diplomats and employees from the US, the Soviet Union decided to expel 160 US diplomats and employees. This is to keep parity with the strength of Soviet diplomatic employees in the US. The present strength of the US staff in Moscow and Leningrad is 460 whereas there are 300 Soviet embassy employees in Washington and San Francisco.

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Indian Express

Oct 23, 2026, 01:03 AM

Kerala CM V D Satheesan: A Vision for Economic Growth and Development

Five months into his office as Chief Minister of Keralam, V D Satheesan has embarked upon a daunting task of positioning the state — known for its stellar record in social and human development indicators, and tourism potential — as a major global investment destination. He hopes to transform the coastal state into an economic hub, attracting investments across maritime trade, aviation, IT, healthcare and higher education. Satheesan will be the guest at the Express Adda in New Delhi on Friday. He will be in conversation with Vandita Mishra, National Opinion Editor, The Indian Express, and Liz Mathew, Deputy Editor, The Indian Express. Known for his sharp political instincts, Satheesan took over the state’s reins in May after having steered the Congress-led UDF alliance, which has been out of power for a decade, to an emphatic victory. Since then, he has established a distinct style of functioning, making the government more accessible to the public. One of his government’s more visible initiatives has been the anti-drugs campaign, Operation Toofan, an initiative that combined police raids, public awareness campaigns and de-addiction care. An avid reader, with his interest ranging from economics and politics to fiction and poetry, Satheesan is also among the handful of chief ministers in the Opposition INDIA bloc. Along with his Opposition counterparts from the southern states, he is seen as a powerful voice on issues like fiscal federalism, safeguarding the south’s Parliamentary voice and balanced Centre-state relations. Express Adda is a series of informal interactions organised by the Indian Express Group and features those at the centre of change. Previous guests include External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways and MSMEs Nitin Gadkari , Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh, Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos, Director Peak XV Rajan Anandan and Sarvam co-founder and CEO Pratyush Kumar, global investor and author Ruchir Sharma, stand-up comedian Zakir Khan and actor Kareena Kapoor Khan.

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Indian Express

Oct 23, 2026, 01:00 AM

BJYM Worker Dies During Seva Sankalp Yatra, PM Modi Expresses Sadness

A 29-year-old worker of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) of Gujarat BJP died after his health deteriorated during the party’s Seva Sankalp Yatra that was carried out from Vadnagar to Varanasi between September 17 and October 7. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written to the father of the deceased party worker, expressing his sadness over the demise. Modi also reportedly called the father of the deceased worker to express his sympathies last week. The party worker, Vrajesh Pavagadhi, was part of the Seva Sankalp Yatra from Vadnagar to Varanasi that was organised to mark 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in public office. The yatra was flagged off by Union Minister for Home and Cooperation Amit Shah in the presence of many senior leaders of the BJP and its allies. Party sources said that Pavagadhi was not well, but joined the yatra without informing the party out of his enthusiasm. “Before the yatra, he was not well and had a fever. He was taking medicines. During the yatra too, he kept taking medicines. His health had deteriorated in Madhya Pradesh and was shifted to a private hospital in Bhopal . From Bhopal, he was airlifted to a hospital in Ahmedabad and we tried our best to provide him with the best medical treatment. However, the infection he had got had spread to his brain and he died of bacterial meningitis in the intervening night of October 12-13,” said a party office bearer, who was part of the yatra accompanying Vrajesh, on the condition of anonymity. Vrajesh’s father Mahesh said, “Before the Seva Sankalp Yatra, Vrajesh had fever. But he took it very casually and did not get (medical) tests done, instead took medicines from a medical store and doctor.”

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The Moscow Times

Oct 23, 2026, 12:59 AM

Amit Shah Slams Rahul Gandhi Over Absence and Negative Politics

NEW DELHI: Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday targeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his absence from the country as the Opposition protested against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the SIR of electoral rolls and claims of vote theft. Speaking at an event in outer Delhi to launch and inaugurate 33 Delhi Jal Board (DJB) projects worth Rs 8,941 crore, Shah said that the Congress would remain out of power for the next 30 years because of its “negative politics”. “When I say BJP will be in power for 30 years, they again reiterate allegations of vote theft... I want to tell you that Amit Shah was born here, stays here, and will die here... I don’t need to visit foreign countries every six months. You won’t form government for 30 years, based on your negative politics,” he said. Shah also took a swipe at the Congress leader over his reported four-day trip to Vietnam, which coincided with nationwide anti-SIR protests. “I know you can’t hear me, you’re sitting somewhere abroad. You don’t even explain why, but that’s okay, that’s your personal life... But once you land in Delhi, listen to me; your turn won’t come for the next 30 years,” Shah said.

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Amar Ujala

Oct 23, 2026, 12:40 AM

Power Employees' Protest Scheduled Against Government Policies

The protest, which will be held from 10 am to 12 noon on Friday, will be in support of the power employees and raise their voice against the government's policies.

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Amar Ujala

Oct 23, 2026, 12:33 AM

Protest Marches Through Ambala City, Led by Local MLA

They then marched from Shaheed Udham Singh Chowk to the SDM office, where they shouted slogans, led by Ambala City MLA and district in-charge Nirmal Singh.

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Dainik Bhaskar

Oct 23, 2026, 12:30 AM

Uttarakhand CM Steps In to Resolve Controversy Between Singer Daler Mehndi and Minister Subodh Uniyal

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday spoke on the controversy between Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi and minister Subodh Uniyal.

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