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An FIR has been lodged against actor-turned-BJP leader <keyword id="19913288" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mithun-chakraborty" source="keywords">Mithun Chakraborty</keyword>, following allegations that he delivered a provocative speech during a <keyword id="19894848" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bjp" source="keywords">BJP</keyword> event held in North 24 Parganas district last month. The complaint, filed at Bidhannagar South police station, relates to Chakraborty's remarks at the Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre (EZCC) in Salt Lake on October 27, where Union Home Minister Amit Shah was also in attendance, launching the West Bengal leg of the BJP's membership drive. According to a senior officer from Bidhannagar Police, “We have started an investigation into the case.” Chakraborty, who received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award earlier this year, was reportedly unavailable for comment. However, BJP state president and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar decried the FIR, labeling it "vendetta politics." He asserted, "There is nothing provocative in his speech. These are nothing but attempts to intimidate him by using police as a political tool." During his speech on October 27, Chakraborty declared his party's ambitions in West Bengal, proclaiming, "In 2026, the masnad (throne) will be ours, and we will do everything to achieve the goal." He also urged BJP booth-level workers to resist attempts to intimidate BJP voters ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, alluding to past incidents where voters were allegedly discouraged from supporting the saffron party. Mithun’s message was seen as a direct response to remarks by TMC MLA Humayun Kabir, who had previously made comments during the Lok Sabha elections perceived as communal and targeted toward BJP supporters. As the investigation unfolds, the FIR has amplified the already intense political climate in West Bengal, raising questions about free speech and the use of law enforcement in political conflicts. For now, both Chakraborty’s supporters and critics are awaiting further developments, as the actor’s remarks and the subsequent police action continue to stir debate. (With inputs from agencies)

FIR filed against Mithun Chakraborty for ‘provocative speech’; BJP alleges ‘vendetta politics'

Mumbai: Indian stock markets rallied on Monday after the <keyword id="20032950" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP-led-government" source="keywords">BJP-led government</keyword> secured a majority in the latest state elections in Maharashtra. The <keyword id="20641216" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Nifty-50" source="keywords">Nifty 50</keyword> index gained more than 1.45 per cent or 346.30 points to open at 24,253.55 points, while the BSE <keyword id="19896382" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sensex" source="keywords">Sensex</keyword> index surged 1,076 points or 1.36 percent to open at 80,193.47 points. Experts noted that the election results have an impact on the markets today, and if past trends are followed, the markets may witness some rally amid the return of the BJP in the Maharashtra state elections. <keyword id="20161891" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ajay-Bagga" source="keywords">Ajay Bagga</keyword> Banking and Market Expert stated that "The just concluded elections in Maharashtra, the results of which were declared on November 23rd, will have a positive immediate impact on the stock markets. The landslide win for the BJP lead coalition in the Maharashtra state elections could lead to a short-term boost to the Indian stock markets which have been in a declining mode" He further added "Investors will interpret this mandate as favourable for the capex and infrastructure push that is ongoing in Maharashtra. The beneficiary sectors of this election are industrials, infrastructure, manufacturing, real estate and financials". In the sectoral indices on the National Stock Exchange, <keyword id="20065014" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nifty-Realty" source="keywords">Nifty Realty</keyword> and <keyword id="19941314" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nifty-PSU-Bank" source="keywords">Nifty PSU Bank</keyword> rallied with a surge of more than 2 percent, while other major indices also gained more than 1.5 per cent, including Nifty Metal, Nifty Media, and Nifty Oil &amp; Gas. In the Nifty 50 list, 49 stocks gained during the opening session, while only one stock declined. Shri Finance opened as the top gainer in the Nifty 50. The shares of the AdGroup also surged around 2 percent at the time of filing this report. <keyword id="19967296" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Adani-Green" source="keywords">Adani Green</keyword> also climbed around 4 percent. "We are most likely to break the falling 20-day average that lies at 24,030, which will be the first time that'd happen since the record high of 27th September. Seasonality trends between now and the end of the year have been historically positive, with the Nifty rising 80% of the time during this period with an average return of over 4 per cent" Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research, Axis Securities. In other Asian markets, Japan and South Korea indices rallied. The Nikkei 225 index surged more than 1.5 percent, South Korea's Kospi also rose by 1.5 percent, Taiwan's Weighted Index was up by 0.48 percent, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng index was down marginally by 0.14 percent at the time of filing this report.

Nifty, Sensex rallied around 1.5 % after Maharashtra election results, Experts noted short term rally

The <keyword id="23052276" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jammu-and-Kashmir-Assembly" source="keywords">Jammu and Kashmir Assembly</keyword> turned into a stormy scene on Wednesday as '<keyword id="19971030" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="jai-shri-ram" source="keywords">Jai Shri Ram</keyword>' chants reverberated through the halls, sparking intense clashes over a resolution seeking dialogue with the Centre to restore the special status of the erstwhile state. The resolution was moved to initiate discussions between the central government and elected representatives in Jammu and <keyword id="19896255" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kashmir" source="keywords">Kashmir</keyword>, a proposal that drew a furious response from <keyword id="20450486" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP-members" source="keywords">BJP members</keyword> who accused the Speaker of bias and lambasted the ruling National Conference (NC) government. In a session marked by vociferous protests and uproarious disruptions, <keyword id="19894848" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bjp" source="keywords">BJP</keyword> members stormed the well of the House, tearing up copies of the resolution. As chants of "Jai Shri Ram," "August 5 Zindabad," "Vande Mataram," and "Anti-national Agenda Nahi Chalega" filled the air, the session became unmanageable. Shouts of "Anti-Jammu Agenda Nahi Chalega," "Pakistani Agenda Nahin Chalega," and "Speaker Hai Hai" underscored the BJP's strong objections, as the Speaker struggled to keep order. The opposition's objections led to multiple pauses in the proceedings, ultimately resulting in the Speaker adjourning the House for the day, leaving the resolution’s future in question. The conflict grew sharper with statements from BJP leaders who claimed the Speaker had acted with partiality. <keyword id="21045920" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sunil-Sharma" source="keywords">Sunil Sharma</keyword>, Leader of the Opposition, asserted, "We have reports that you (Speaker) called a meeting of ministers yesterday and drafted the resolution yourself." Another BJP MLA, Sham Lal Sharma, went further, claiming the resolution had been prepared "in collusion with the Speaker in a guest house." "The mandate (of the Assembly polls) was in favor of abrogation of Article 370 because we (BJP) got 26 percent votes against NC's 23 percent," Sham Lal Sharma argued, framing the election results as support for the Centre’s 2019 decision to revoke Article 370. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary defended the resolution, emphasizing the need to restore special status. In presenting the resolution, Choudhary declared, "This Assembly reaffirms the importance of the special status and constitutional guarantees, which safeguarded the identity, culture, and rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and expresses concern over their unilateral removal." The resolution also called for the Government of India to initiate a dialogue with the elected representatives of Jammu and Kashmir for the restoration of special status and constitutional guarantees and to devise constitutional mechanisms to achieve these ends. "This Assembly emphasises that any process for restoration must safeguard both national unity and the legitimate aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir," the document added. As the fallout continues, the resolution has stirred deep-seated <keyword id="21391765" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="political-tensions" source="keywords">political tensions</keyword>, exposing rifts within the Assembly and drawing the spotlight back on the long-running debate over Article 370. With the adjournment, the next steps in the contentious issue remain uncertain, though it is clear that passions on both sides are far from subsiding. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP members chant “Jai Shri Ram”, tear documents in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly over special status resolution

With the West Bengal Assembly bypolls around the corner, a recent analysis by the West Bengal Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has shed light on the profiles of candidates in the fray. The study reveals that among the 41 candidates contesting in the upcoming bypolls, seven have serious criminal cases pending, while another seven are crorepatis. <h2>Criminal cases: BJP tops the list</h2>The ADR analysis shows that out of the seven candidates with serious criminal cases, four are from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), two from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and one from Congress. These cases range from non-bailable offences to electoral violations and financial fraud, with maximum punishments extending to five years or more. Offences in this category include serious crimes such as murder, kidnapping, and violations of the Prevention of Corruption Act or crimes against women. The bypolls will take place on November 13 in the constituencies of Coochbehar Sitai (SC), Haroa, Naihati, Medinipur, Taldangra, and Madarihat (ST). However, the affidavit for one candidate, independent contestant Pankaj Lohra from Madarihat (ST), could not be reviewed due to missing documents. <h2>Wealthiest candidates</h2>In addition to those with criminal cases, seven candidates declared assets exceeding Rs 1 crore. Congress leads in this regard, with three crorepati candidates, followed by the BJP with two, and the TMC and CPIM(L) with one each. According to the affidavits, the wealthiest candidate is TMC's <keyword id="23849799" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sanat-dey" source="keywords">Sanat Dey</keyword> from Naihati, who has assets worth Rs 4.9 crore, including Rs 1.8 crore in immovable property. Following him is BJP's Ananya Roy Chakraborty, who is contesting from Taldangra, with assets totalling nearly Rs 3 crore. TMC’s Shyamal Kumar Ghosh, running for the Medinipur seat, declared assets of approximately Rs 1.69 crore. On average, the candidates’ assets are valued at around Rs 58.14 lakh. In contrast to the wealthiest candidates, Kashikanta Barman from the Kamatapur Peoples Party (United), contesting from Coochbehar Sitai (SC), has declared the lowest assets, amounting to just Rs 5,000. This wide range of wealth highlights the diverse financial backgrounds of candidates in the bypolls. (With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal bypolls to feature seven candidates with serious criminal cases including murder and kidnapping

Following six consecutive days of losses, Indian stock indices surged back into positive territory on Tuesday. Analysts attribute this recovery to a combination of bottom-fishing by investors and a boost in market sentiment driven by the <keyword id="19931558" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bharatiya-Janata-Party" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Bharatiya Janata Party" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Bharatiya Janata Party">Bharatiya Janata Party</keyword> (BJP) heading for a third straight term in the Haryana assembly elections. The <keyword id="19896382" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sensex" source="keywords">Sensex</keyword> closed at 81,634.81 points, gaining 584.81 points, or 0.72 percent, while the <keyword id="19896381" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nifty" source="keywords">Nifty</keyword> ended at 25,013.15 points, up 217.40 points, or 0.88 percent. All sectoral indices posted gains, with the notable exception of Nifty Metal. Nifty Media, Auto, <keyword id="19933821" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pharma" source="keywords">Pharma</keyword>, and Oil &amp; Gas emerged as top performers for the day. Ajit Mishra, Senior Vice President of Research at Religare Broking Ltd, noted a shift in investor strategy amid the <keyword id="20964705" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="market-recovery" source="keywords">market recovery</keyword>. “Traders should consider using this recovery to lighten positions and remain selective for long trades. We continue to favor IT and pharma stocks for their resilience and recommend careful stock selection in other sectors,” Mishra said. The recent string of losses, spanning six sessions, saw the Sensex and Nifty plummet by 4 to 5 percent. Market watchers attributed the dip to a correction phase following a recent bullish run, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly following a fresh wave of violence between Israel and Iran. <keyword id="19931025" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="V-K-Vijayakumar" source="keywords">V K Vijayakumar</keyword>, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, highlighted a cautious approach for investors navigating the current market landscape. “The best strategy now is to accumulate high-quality, fairly valued bluechips like the leading financials and IT stocks,” Vijayakumar advised. Despite the recent downturn, Indian stocks had previously benefited from the U.S. Federal Reserve’s decision to lower interest rates by a steep 50 basis points, a move that has been supporting capital inflows into emerging markets like India. <keyword id="20015748" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="foreign-portfolio-investors" source="keywords">Foreign portfolio investors</keyword> (FPIs), who have been net buyers for four consecutive months, continued to offer some support to the Indian markets through September. Looking ahead, investors are focused on upcoming policy announcements and corporate earnings reports. The <keyword id="19899810" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Reserve-Bank-of-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Reserve Bank of India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Reserve Bank of India">Reserve Bank of India</keyword>’s (RBI) monetary policy outcome on Wednesday is expected to provide additional market cues. The RBI has maintained the repo rate at 6.5 percent for nine consecutive meetings, a policy stance that is closely watched by both domestic and international investors. As the market gears up for the release of India Inc.’s second-quarter earnings, analysts suggest that investor sentiment may further stabilise if results meet or exceed expectations. The BJP's continued strength in Haryana has lent a boost to market confidence, signaling political stability and continuity that many view as favorable for India’s economic trajectory. (With inputs from agencies)

Stocks rebound as BJP's Haryana win spurs optimism in Indian markets

<keyword id="19895371" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Congress" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Congress" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Congress">Congress</keyword> candidate and Olympic wrestler <keyword id="19895499" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Vinesh-Phogat" source="keywords">Vinesh Phogat</keyword> has emerged victorious in the fiercely contested <keyword id="23069853" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Julana" source="keywords">Julana</keyword> Assembly seat in <keyword id="19904807" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Haryana" source="keywords">Haryana</keyword>’s <keyword id="19958795" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jind-district" source="keywords">Jind district</keyword>. According to the Election Commission, Phogat secured her maiden political win over <keyword id="19894848" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="BJP" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="BJP">BJP</keyword> rival Yogesh Kumar by a margin of around 6,000 votes. Early trends indicated Phogat’s lead over Kumar, which progressively widened as the day progressed, culminating in a decisive victory after 15 rounds of vote counting. Polling for the assembly elections in Haryana took place on October 5, with vote counting commencing at 8 AM today. Phogat totaled 65,080 votes, capturing the attention of both supporters and political analysts who lauded her successful transition from a celebrated wrestler to a formidable political figure. Notably, Phogat’s win brings the Julana seat back into Congress’s hands after 19 years. Bajrang Punia, a fellow wrestler and Congress leader who joined the party alongside Phogat, took to social media to express his support and pride. On platform X, he wrote, “Many congratulations to the country's daughter Vinesh Phogat for her victory. This fight was not just for one Julana seat, it was not just with 3-4 other candidates, it was not just a fight between parties. This fight was against the strongest oppressive forces in the country. And Vinesh emerged victorious.” As Congress celebrated Phogat’s success, the party raised concerns over alleged discrepancies in the Election Commission’s real-time data display. Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera stated, “There is a mismatch in the actual number of rounds counted and the number of rounds being shown on the television through the Election Commission data. The EC data is lagging behind; they are still showing fourth or fifth-round data while 11 rounds have been counted. Our General Secretary Communications has tweeted to the Election Commission asking – are [they] trying to put pressure on the local administration by delaying the display and uploading of data. In J&amp;K you are getting live data with every round counted but in Haryana, it is not so.” Congress leader Jairam Ramesh echoed these concerns, questioning the accuracy of the election data displayed. He remarked, “Like the Lok Sabha elections, in Haryana, we are again witnessing a slowing down of uploading up-to-date trends on the ECI website. Is the BJP trying to build pressure on the administration by sharing outdated and misleading trends?” Vinesh Phogat’s win in Julana marks a significant political debut, as she navigates a new arena beyond the wrestling mat. The victory represents not only a win for Congress in Haryana but also an influential addition to the party’s roster as it seeks to counter BJP’s influence in the state. As the results solidify, Phogat’s supporters are celebrating the historic nature of her triumph and its broader implications for Haryana’s political landscape. This story underscores the shifting dynamics within Haryana’s political scene, with Phogat’s victory exemplifying Congress’s strategic push to appeal to voters through candidates who resonate on a personal level with constituents. The state now waits to see how Phogat will leverage her influence both within her party and her constituency in the coming years. (With inputs from agencies)

From disqualified in Olympics to gold in Haryana: Vinesh Phogat wins big in Julana, ending BJP's 19-year streak

The former <keyword id="19935584" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="RSS-chief" source="keywords">RSS chief</keyword>, <keyword id="23419565" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Subhash-Velingkar" source="keywords">Subhash Velingkar</keyword>, recently stirred significant controversy by demanding a <keyword id="20615498" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="DNA-test" source="keywords">DNA test</keyword> on the relics of <keyword id="23459102" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="St-Francis-Xavier" source="keywords">St. Francis Xavier</keyword>. Velingkar claims that the test would confirm the authenticity of the remains, but his statement has triggered protests and condemnation from Goa’s <keyword id="19935795" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Catholic-community" source="keywords">Catholic community</keyword>, who view it as a direct affront to their faith. This article will explore the significance of St. Francis Xavier in Goa, examine the implications of a DNA test, and review the political and social reactions to Velingkar's statement. <h2>St. Francis Xavier in Goa</h2>St. Francis Xavier, one of the most venerated Catholic saints in the world, arrived in Goa in 1542 as a Jesuit missionary. He played a crucial role in establishing Christianity in Goa and spreading it across Asia. Known for his compassion and selfless dedication, he is affectionately referred to by Goans as “Goencho Saib” (Protector of Goa). <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112672114" title="“Please do not photograph our homes!” plead Goa’s homeowners" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>His relics, preserved at the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, draw millions of pilgrims from across the globe. The relics are especially significant because, every ten years, they are publicly displayed during the Exposition, a major religious event that unites the community in faith and reverence. <h2>What is a DNA test, and what could it prove?</h2>A DNA test involves analysing genetic material to establish relationships, origins, or identity. DNA testing on human remains can reveal biological data such as ancestry, possible familial connections, or genetic characteristics. In this case, Velingkar’s call for a DNA test is ostensibly aimed at verifying whether the relics truly belong to St. Francis Xavier. However, such a test would be challenging because it would require preserved genetic material, which might not be feasible — although doable under the right conditions — after nearly 450 years. The main issue is that without direct descendants or known relatives, a DNA test would have limited capacity to “prove” the relics' authenticity definitively. Many Goans argue that such a test is unnecessary, given the historical and religious context of the relics and the deep spiritual significance they hold. <h2>Protests across Goa and political fallout</h2>Velingkar’s remarks have provoked a backlash, with protests erupting across Goa. Demonstrators in Margao and Canacona have voiced their anger, demanding Velingkar be arrested for offending their <keyword id="19978801" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="religious-sentiments" source="keywords">religious sentiments</keyword>. At these gatherings, local leaders have condemned his statements, arguing that he is attempting to provoke divisions in Goa’s harmonious society. Some have also called for Velingkar to undergo psychological evaluation, questioning his motives and the wisdom of his demand for a DNA test. While Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has assured the public that legal action will be taken, some community members remain sceptical, perceiving a lack of urgency. The Congress party has criticised the BJP-led state government, accusing it of neglecting the issue to avoid alienating potential voter bases. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111809476" title="Why is a music festival causing controversy in Goa?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>The controversy has also cast a spotlight on the BJP’s stance toward the Catholic community, particularly considering how the state was mum for an exceedingly long time on their intentions to invite Pope Francis to the upcoming Exposition. This hesitation and the ongoing controversy has compounded frustrations among Goans, leading to questions about the government’s respect for religious diversity in the state. Goa’s history is marked by religious tolerance and a unique blending of cultures. The Catholic Church has played a pivotal role in maintaining peace and fostering unity across different communities in the state. By calling for a DNA test on the relics of a beloved saint, many argue that Velingkar risks jeopardising this delicate balance. Religious leaders have warned against divisive rhetoric, underscoring that Goa’s strength lies in its ability to maintain harmony among its diverse population.

Goa protests: Why is an ex-RSS chief demanding to DNA test the body of a 450-year-old sacred saint?

<keyword id="20161012" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP-leader" source="keywords">BJP leader</keyword> and Olympic Medal winning <keyword id="19914933" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="wrestler" source="keywords">wrestler</keyword> <keyword id="19911119" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Yogeshwar-Dutt" source="keywords">Yogeshwar Dutt</keyword> expressed his willingness to contest the upcoming <keyword id="22435328" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Haryana-Assembly-elections" source="keywords">Haryana Assembly elections</keyword> from the Gohana Assembly Constituency on Friday. "I have expressed my wish to contest elections to the Chief Minister and the central leadership. I am a sportsperson, and an Olympic medallist, and I have contested elections from <keyword id="19894848" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="BJP" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="BJP">BJP</keyword> earlier also, so I want to get a chance", said Dutt while speaking to Journalists. He further added that he wants to contest from the Gohana assembly constituency and he has told the same to the leadership. "Now it is the time for elections, so I want to get a chance to contest from Gohana. I can't be certain about the future, but I have expressed my willingness, and I have told the leadership that I want to contest.", he added. Yogeshwar Dutt, who won an Olympic Medal in the 2012 Olympics was defeated by Congress nominee Indu Raj Narwal in a bypoll for the Assembly seat of Baroda in 2020. Dutt also lost the seat in 2019 to the Congress's three-time winner Krishan Hooda. The BJP Central Election Committee (CEC) held a crucial meeting on Thursday to discuss the upcoming <keyword id="20390792" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="haryana-assembly" source="keywords">Haryana Assembly</keyword> elections. During the meeting, which was chaired by <keyword id="19898052" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Prime-Minister-Narendra-Modi" source="keywords">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</keyword>, discussions were held on all 90 assembly seats in the state. Out of these, candidates for 55 seats have been finalised. The final decision on the remaining 35 seats will be made in a follow-up meeting today between the Haryana core committee and the BJP President. The party has decided to roll out the candidate names in phases as the election preparations intensify. The meeting, which took place at the BJP headquarters, was attended by key leaders including BJP National President JP Nadda, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Satya Narayan Jatia, Iqbal Singh Lalpura, K. Laxman, Nayab Singh Saini, Sudha Yadav, Vanathi Srinivasan, Anil Vij, Bhupender Yadav, Biplab Deb, Satish Poonia, Surendra Nagar, and Dharmendra Pradhan. Voting for 90 seats of the Haryana Assembly elections will be held on October 1. The results will be declared on October 4.

Olympic medallist Yogeshwar Dutt expresses willingness to contest Haryana Assembly elections

In a significant <keyword id="20359239" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="political-development" source="keywords">political development</keyword>, <keyword id="19969165" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Atishi" source="keywords">Atishi</keyword> is poised to become the next Chief Minister of Delhi, following the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal. The <keyword id="19935664" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Aam-Aadmi-Party" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Aam Aadmi Party" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Aam Aadmi Party">Aam Aadmi Party</keyword> (AAP) convened a legislative meeting earlier today, where all MLAs unanimously accepted Kejriwal's proposal to nominate Atishi for the top post. <h2>Who is Atishi?</h2>Atishi Marlena, widely known as Atishi, is a prominent figure within the AAP and currently holds multiple key portfolios in the <keyword id="19925995" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Delhi-government" source="keywords">Delhi government</keyword>. A Rhodes scholar, she has long been a key architect of AAP’s <keyword id="20374249" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="education-reforms" source="keywords">education reforms</keyword> in Delhi, which transformed the public schooling system and gained national attention. Her work has earned her recognition as a progressive leader committed to enhancing education, governance, and <keyword id="20228723" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="public-welfare" source="keywords">public welfare</keyword>. Atishi has served as a Delhi MLA, representing the Kalkaji constituency, and has been an essential part of the Kejriwal-led government. She took on many responsibilities when Kejriwal was jailed in connection with the excise policy case, and her reputation for efficiency and dedication helped solidify her as a strong contender for the chief ministerial position. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113312516" title="Supreme Court grants bail to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in Liquor scam case" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div><h2>Kejriwal’s resignation and resultant suspense</h2>The sequence of events leading to Atishi's ascension began with Arvind Kejriwal's sudden announcement that he would resign as Delhi’s Chief Minister. On September 13, 2024, Kejriwal was released from Tihar Jail, where he was lodged for his alleged involvement in the Delhi liquor policy scam. Following his release, Kejriwal took to the public platform to declare that he would step down, pending a “certificate of honesty” from the people of Delhi. In a political gambit that stunned many, Kejriwal pushed for advancing the polls to November 2024, ahead of the originally scheduled February 2025 elections. His rationale was that only a fresh mandate from the people, whom he asked to consider his honesty as the deciding factor, would validate his return to power. Until then, he vowed not to reassume the office of Chief Minister. "I didn't resign (after arrest in excise policy case) because I respect democracy and the Constitution is supreme for me," Kejriwal had said earlier. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113364559" title="Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal announces resignation, demands Delhi elections in November" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Kejriwal’s resignation prompted a flurry of activity within AAP, as speculation mounted about who would succeed him. The party’s Political Affairs Committee (PAC) and other senior leaders, including Manish Sisodia, Saurabh Bharadwaj, and Gopal Rai, held several rounds of discussions. Names floated for the role included Atishi, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj, and even Kejriwal’s wife, Sunita Kejriwal. Some sources hinted that a surprise candidate from a minority community could also emerge. However, Atishi was always seen as the frontrunner. She holds a majority of the key portfolios in the Delhi government and was handpicked by Kejriwal to unfurl the national flag on August 15 while he was in jail — a symbolic gesture that hinted at her growing political stature within the party. <h2>Atishi’s nomination and the path ahead</h2>The AAP legislative meeting, held at Kejriwal’s residence earlier today, saw Atishi’s nomination as the new Chief Minister of Delhi. The decision was unanimously accepted by all AAP MLAs, with Kejriwal personally proposing her name. Once Kejriwal officially tenders his resignation later today, Atishi will likely meet Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to stake her claim for the CM’s office. It is expected that Atishi will not take the oath of office immediately, as the process involves proving majority on the floor of the Delhi Assembly and appointing a new council of ministers. Sources suggest that the swearing-in ceremony may take place closer to the next Assembly session. Atishi’s rise to the Chief Ministerial post comes at a time of political turbulence for AAP. Kejriwal’s resignation, driven by his desire to restore his public image following his incarceration, has put the party in a precarious position. The opposition <keyword id="14666" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bjp" source="Orion">BJP</keyword> has termed Kejriwal’s resignation a "PR stunt" aimed at deflecting attention from the corruption charges. Atishi, with her track record of governance and public service, represents a fresh face for AAP, one that can potentially rejuvenate the party’s image. She will need to navigate a host of challenges, including the corruption allegations surrounding Kejriwal and the upcoming elections. Whether she will be able to maintain the party’s grip on Delhi or lead it to a new electoral victory remains to be seen. (With inputs from agencies)

Atishi set to become Delhi's new Chief Minister as Arvind Kejriwal steps down months before the assembly elections

Most <keyword id="21473307" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP-allies" source="keywords">BJP allies</keyword> have kept their cards close to chest on the issue of <keyword id="19934070" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Uniform-Civil-Code" source="keywords">Uniform Civil Code</keyword>, which Prime Minister <keyword id="19895781" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi" source="keywords">Narendra Modi</keyword> strongly backed in his Independence Day speech, with the party's largest partner <keyword id="19910625" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Telugu-Desam-Party" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Telugu Desam Party" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Telugu Desam Party">Telugu Desam Party</keyword> (TDP) saying that it will wait for details to emerge before finalising its stand. The JD(U), the BJP's second biggest ally, said the party supports any such reform but its spokesperson K C Tyagi added that it must be pushed only after evolving a consensus by speaking to all stake-holders, including religious groups and states. Lavu Srikrishna Devarayalu, the head of TDP Parliamentary Party, told PTI that his party will wait for the details of any proposal related to the UCC before finalising its stand. Another party ally <keyword id="20280818" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lok-Janshakti-Party" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Lok Janshakti Party" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Lok Janshakti Party">Lok Janshakti Party</keyword> (<keyword id="20354493" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ram-Vilas" source="keywords">Ram Vilas</keyword>) has also been non-committal, with its president and Union Minister Chirag Paswan recently highlighting cultural, linguistic and regional diversities across the country to wonder how everyone can be brought under one umbrella. Last month, he said that his party will wait for a draft on the UCC before taking a stand. Tyagi cited JD(U) president and Bihar Chief Minister <keyword id="19907431" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nitish-Kumar" source="keywords">Nitish Kumar</keyword>'s submission in 2017 to the Law Commission to make his point. Kumar had said, "Any attempt to impose a UCC without obtaining through substantive consultations the concurrence of various religious groups, especially the minorities, could lead to social friction and an erosion of faith in the constitutional guarantee of freedom of religion." However, the proposal for simultaneous elections, which was also staunchly advocated by Modi on Thursday, generally enjoys support among the BJP's allies. Tyagi said his party is in complete agreement with the BJP on the issue. Both JD(U) and the LJP(Ram Vilas) had extended their support to the concept 'one nation one election' in their submission to the high-level committee headed by former president Ram Nath Kovind. Another important BJP ally <keyword id="19905334" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Shiv-Sena" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Shiv Sena" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Shiv Sena">Shiv Sena</keyword>, which is headed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has been supportive of both UCC and simultaneous elections. Modi had on Thursday made an unequivocal pitch for a uniform civil code in the country, asserting that a "secular civil code" in place of the existing "communal" one is the need of the hour. He also pushed forcefully for 'one nation one election'. Frequent elections are an "obstacle" in the country's growth, and every scheme is seen as a consequence of one poll or another happening every few months, he said in his speech on India's 78th Independence Day. The UCC has been a key ideological plank of the BJP, while the party has also taken a strong stand in favour of <keyword id="20033454" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="simultaneous-polls" source="keywords">simultaneous polls</keyword>, promising both measures on its successive manifestos.

Most BJP allies keep away from supporting Uniform Civil Code, positive to idea of simultaneous polls

Chandigarh: Listing out the measures taken by his government to compensate <keyword id="19934969" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="farmers" source="keywords">farmers</keyword> over this year's subnormal rain, Haryana Chief Minister <keyword id="20928101" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="nayab-singh-saini" source="keywords">Nayab Singh Saini</keyword> countered the <keyword id="19895371" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Congress" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Congress" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Congress">Congress</keyword> criticism over the issue, saying the opposition party would give only "meagre amounts" while it was in power. Stepping up the attack ahead of the possible announcement of assembly polls in the state, <keyword id="20361506" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Saini" source="keywords">Saini</keyword>, addressing a press conference on Friday, hit out at Congress's '<keyword id="22376578" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Haryana-Maange-Hisab" source="keywords">Haryana Maange Hisab</keyword>' campaign and accused it of spreading lies. Asked if he has any information on whether Haryana's poll dates will be announced later in the day, Saini quipped: "Who said so? Polls will be held as per schedule." The chief minister pointed to the recent cabinet decision to compensate farmers affected by less rains at a rate of Rs 2,000 per acre as a bonus. "We have released the first instalment of Rs 525 crore on Friday," he said. All the farmers who have registered on the designated portal will be compensated for their losses, he said. Saini said the BJP-led government in the state has taken several steps for farmers' welfare in the past ten years. "Congress sheds crocodile tears in the name of farmers. They should tell how much crops they procured from farmers in the ten years between 2005-2014," Saini said. "During their rule, Congress used to handover cheques of meagre amounts of Rs 2, Rs 5 for crop damage. The <keyword id="19894848" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="BJP" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="BJP">BJP</keyword> government has given Rs 13,276 crore as compensation to farmers for crop damage in the past ten years," he said. During the Congress rule, farmers would "dump their produce" on roads as they did not get the required price, the CM said. Under the BJP government, payment is made to the farmers' bank accounts within 72 hours, Saini said. Dubbing the 'Haryana Maange Hisab' campaign as a "jhooth ki yatra" (yatra of lies), he added, "Those who are seeking an account from us, I want to show them the mirror and tell them how we are taking decisions in favour of farmers and empowering them," he said. Saini said while the Congress is wearing a mask of honesty these days, everyone knows how farmers' land was "snatched by them in the name of CLU (change of land use)" and handed them over to builders. The Congress has been attacking the BJP as part of its 'Haryana Maange Hisab' campaign, after its launch on July 15, targeting the ruling party over several issues concerning farmers as well as unemployment, law and order and others.

Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini attacks Cong's 'Haryana Maange Hisab' campaign, asks what it did for farmers

The <keyword id="19895345" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Supreme-Court" source="keywords">Supreme Court</keyword> on Monday deferred by six weeks hearing on a plea of Chief Minister <keyword id="19901384" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Arvind-Kejriwal" source="keywords">Arvind Kejriwal</keyword> challenging a <keyword id="19895875" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Delhi-High-Court" source="keywords">Delhi High Court</keyword> order upholding the summons issued to him in a criminal <keyword id="19917023" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="defamation-case" source="keywords">defamation case</keyword> for retweeting an allegedly defamatory video circulated by YouTuber <keyword id="21917603" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Dhruv-Rathee" source="keywords">Dhruv Rathee</keyword> in 2018. A bench of justices Sanjiv Khanna, Sanjay Kumar and R Mahadevan posted the matter for hearing after six weeks after senior <keyword id="22757218" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="advocate-Abhishek-Singhvi" source="Orion">advocate Abhishek Singhvi</keyword>, appearing for <keyword id="19895701" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="kejriwal" source="keywords">Kejriwal</keyword>, sought some more time to work out a settlement. "We express regret but some more time may be given (for settlement). Currently, too many things are going on in this man's life," Singhvi submitted. Advocate Raghav Awasthi, appearing for the complainant, submitted that time may be given (to Kejriwal) but it should not be unlimited and some negotiations have to take place. Singhvi submitted that although he (Kejriwal) expresses regret for the tweet but it cannot be on his (complainant's) terms. The bench posted the matter for hearing after six weeks to enable the parties reach a settlement. Earlier, Kejriwal has admitted that he "committed a mistake" by retweeting the alleged defamatory video. On March 11, the top court asked Kejriwal whether he wanted to give an apology to the complainant in the matter. Kejriwal had on February 26 told the apex court that he made a mistake by retweeting the allegedly defamatory video related to the <keyword id="20738764" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP-IT-Cell" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="BJP IT Cell" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="BJP IT Cell">BJP IT Cell</keyword>. The counsel appearing for complainant Vikas Sankrityayan had told the top court that Kejriwal may issue an apology on social media platforms like microblogging platform 'X' or Instagram. On February 26, the apex court, without issuing notice on Kejriwal's plea challenging the high court order, had asked the complainant whether he wanted to close the matter in view of the petitioner accepting it was a mistake. The top court had asked the trial court not to take up the defamation case involving Kejriwal till further orders. In its February 5 verdict, the high court said that reposting alleged libellous content would attract the defamation law. It said a sense of responsibility has to be attached while retweeting content about which one does not have knowledge and added that retweeting defamatory content must invite penal, civil as well as tort action if the person retweeting it does not attach a disclaimer. The high court, while refusing to quash the trial court's 2019 order summoning Kejriwal, had said when a public figure tweets a defamatory post, the ramifications extend far beyond a mere whisper in someone's ears. It had said if the act of retweeting or reposting is allowed to be misused as it is still considered to be a vacant grey area of law, it will encourage people with ill intentions to misuse it and conveniently take a plea that they had merely retweeted a content. The chief minister had said in the high court that the trial court failed to appreciate that his tweet was not intended or likely to harm the complainant. Sankrityayan claimed the YouTube video titled 'BJP IT Cell Part II' was circulated by Rathee, who lives in Germany, "wherein a number of false and defamatory allegations were made".

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