Contractor V O Sajan appeared before the VACB in Thiruvananthapuram for a preliminary probe into alleged corruption in a road project from years ago. The project was undertaken when current Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar served as the Kerala Public Works Department secretary. Sajan claims crucial evidence against Kumar was ignored in an earlier investigation and that statements were altered under pressure.
While remaining cautious of the unpredictability of a bruised Trump administration, New Delhi, and other world capitals, could go slow on the investment pledges made to stave off tariffs.
Congress MP and dismissed Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam has moved a local court seeking anticipatory bail in a sexual harassment case. JNU dismissed Akoijam in October over allegations from at least 11 female students, leading to an FIR by Delhi Police. The Delhi High Court on Monday stayed JNU's termination decision, with the case listed for hearing in January.
Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chairperson Sonia Gandhi explained that giving up her Italian passport and adopting Indian citizenship felt more difficult, as it was a part of herself that she had brought from Italy.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed speculation regarding a potential merger between the NCP and NCP (SP) factions, stating that while they are independent parties, the BJP-led NDA would expect to be consulted if such a move were considered. He also dismissed claims that the state government intended to take over Gokul Dairy, clarifying the government's stance on the cooperative's internal issues and recent cabinet decisions.
US House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries has thrown his full support behind a legislative push to impeach Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, accusing him of severe misconduct and responsibility for the ongoing war against Iran, as newly empowered opposition lawmakers prepare to intensify congressional oversight of the administration led by US President Donald Trump.
Sonia Gandhi's memoir, "Belonging: A Journey of Love," reveals her interactions with former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, including a phone call after the 2001 Parliament attack and a heated exchange during a joint session in 2002 over the Prevention of Terrorism Ordinance (POTO). Gandhi recounts Vajpayee's strong reaction to her criticism and her later reflection on the incident.
A Delhi court has directed the city police to provide seven working days' prior notice to Congress MP and dismissed JNU professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam before taking any coercive action, including arrest, in a sexual harassment case. The court noted that while police are not currently contemplating arrest, they must serve a physical notice if circumstances change. This comes after JNU dismissed Akoijam based on an internal committee's findings, a decision later stayed by the Delhi High Court.
The Delhi High Court has stayed the termination of JNU professor Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, who is also a Congress MP, following allegations of sexual harassment. The university had dismissed him on October 9 based on an internal committee's findings, but Akoijam denies the allegations, calling it a "witch hunt." A police FIR has also been registered against him.
The INDIA bloc is gearing up for a symbolic 'public impeachment' of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on October 30, protesting alleged 'vote chori' and irregularities in electoral rolls, raising significant questions about India's democratic processes.
'Trump has weakened, not necessarily restrained.'
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has interpreted the US midterm election results as a clear rejection of conflict by the American public, stating, "Americans said NO TO WAR, and we endorse this message." This comes as Democrats are poised to take control of the US Congress, securing the Senate and gaining seats in the House of Representatives.
Sonia Gandhi's memoir "Belonging: A Journey of Love" reveals the intense internal conflict and family opposition behind her decision to decline the prime minister's post in 2004. Despite initial rejection, then a hesitant acceptance under pressure from alliance leaders, she ultimately followed her "inner voice" to refuse the top job, nominating Manmohan Singh instead.
Leaders of the INDIA bloc on Tuesday announced a protest at Freedom Park in Bengaluruon November 5 against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging that constitutional institutions were being misused to undermine democracy.
Senior NCP leader Praful Patel met NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital, stating that despite political differences, their family relations remain strong. They discussed the political situation, and Pawar was in good spirits. This meeting follows the 2023 NCP split and recent developments within the Ajit Pawar faction.
The Congress candidate's victory in the Nagpur Division Graduates' constituency marks a significant upset for the BJP in the Maharashtra Legislative Council elections.
The INDIA bloc's planned 'public impeachment' of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has been postponed to October 31 due to Delhi's weather conditions.
'Nobody, even the government, cannot compel Gyanesh Kumar to resign. He can only be removed through a constitutionally laid down process of impeachment. If he does get impeached, there will be political fallout on Mr Modi's government.'
Donald Trump has announced that Stephen Miller will take over as White House Chief of Staff from November 9, 2026, replacing Susie Wiles, who will move to Trump's political operation. Trump praised both Miller and Wiles, indicating a desire for strategic changes within his administration.
The INDIA bloc is intensifying preparations for its November 1 rally at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged "vote chori" and irregularities in electoral rolls. Congress leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi, inspected the site, where tents, chairs, and barricades are being set up. Delhi Police are deploying 3,500 personnel for security, expecting around 50,000 attendees, while the Congress anticipates 10 lakh. The rally is part of a broader campaign against the Election Commission's functioning, following a planned "public impeachment" proceeding.
The Congress party has accused the Indian government of imposing new charges on UPI transactions due to pressure from the United States, specifically to benefit American card companies. The opposition party demanded the withdrawal of the decision, calling it "anti-national" and alleging it fills the coffers of US firms while burdening Indian citizens. The government, however, clarified that the Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges apply only to commercial transactions above Rs 2,000 and are not levied on consumers, a stance supported by the BJP which accused Congress of spreading "fake news".
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, addressing an INDIA bloc rally in New Delhi on Sunday, launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission and the BJP government, alleging "vote chori" in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. He asserted that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar would be removed and jailed for "treason," and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah would face legal action. Gandhi claimed 13.5 crore voters were removed from electoral rolls, making the 2024 elections "illegal." The BJP, in response, accused Gandhi of creating anarchy and having a "dual mentality" regarding democratic outcomes.
Americans are voting in crucial midterm elections, widely seen as a referendum on Donald Trump's presidency. The elections will determine control of the House and Senate, with Democrats hoping to gain power. Key races include governorships and numerous Indian-American candidates. Trump's last-minute policy announcements and campaigning efforts are highlighted, as analysts predict a potential shift in power that could limit his agenda.
The Congress-led INDIA bloc held a major protest rally in Delhi, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged electoral irregularities and past corruption allegations. Leaders stated the protest was a "stern warning" to the government, vowing to continue until Kumar steps down, citing threats to parliamentary democracy.
The NDA alliance secured 16 out of 28 legislative council seats across four states, while the Congress managed to win only one seat. The Samajwadi Party made significant gains in Uttar Pradesh, and the Jan Suraaj Party opened its account in Bihar. The results show mixed fortunes for major parties, with notable setbacks for the BJP in Nagpur and the Congress in Karnataka.
Amidst swirling political developments in Maharashtra, speculation about a potential merger between the NCP and NCP-SP factions is intensifying, with key leaders hinting at significant realignments and leadership role clarifications.
Experts suggest that a significant setback for US President Donald Trump in the midterm elections could compel him to pursue a swift trade agreement with India, as he seeks a quick foreign policy win amidst challenges with Russia, China, and Iran.
The Congress party and the INDIA bloc are planning a 'public impeachment' of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of violating the Constitution and subverting electoral democracy. This comes after alleged denials of permission for their event, which they claim is an attempt by the government to silence criticism. The JD(U) has criticised the move as an insult to Parliament and the judiciary.
Bengaluru Police's Central Crime Branch conducted searches at the residence and office of Kannada news channel head Rakesh Shetty. This action is part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged sting operation targeting former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The probe involves videos uploaded to YouTube and the recent arrest of Ritesh Pandey, with further details emerging about the mobile phone used in the operation.
Supporters of the INDIA bloc gathered at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan for a 'Chalo Dilli' protest on Sunday, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged electoral irregularities and 'vote chori'. Senior leaders participated in a march, while extensive security arrangements were made for the large-scale mobilisation.
The Congress party has strongly criticised the Modi government's decision to introduce a 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000, alleging it is a result of US pressure to benefit American card companies. The party also linked this move to broader US actions against India, including tariffs and H-1B visa issues, coining the term "Narendra's Ongoing Trump Appeasement." The government, however, clarified that consumers will not bear the charge, which applies only to merchants.
Andhra Pradesh Congress chief YS Sharmila has decided to move her daughter Anjili Reddy's wedding venue after her brother, former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, refused to allow his Bengaluru property for the ceremony, citing security reasons. Sharmila stated the decision was made to ensure a non-controversial event, despite her claim of full ownership of the property.
A police officer was killed and a constable injured in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas district while attempting to intercept a truck carrying illicit liquor. The incident has led to a major crackdown on the liquor mafia, with key suspects arrested and a larger network being investigated. The Chief Minister has ordered an impartial probe and announced financial assistance and a job for the officer's family, while the incident has also sparked political debate.
A police officer was killed and a constable injured in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas district while attempting to intercept a truck carrying illicit liquor. The incident has led to a crackdown on the liquor mafia, with three suspects, including the alleged kingpin, taken into custody. The truck was reportedly transporting illegal alcohol to Gujarat. The Chief Minister has ordered an impartial probe and announced compensation, while political parties are trading accusations regarding the state's law and order situation.
A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after a plaque bearing former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's name at Kolkata's Nandan cultural hub was painted over, while one for Jyoti Basu remained untouched. This incident, occurring just before the Kolkata International Film Festival, has led to a war of words between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress, with actor Mithun Chakraborty questioning the relevance of Banerjee's name.
India has strongly criticised the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), labelling it a "biased" entity with a "blatantly political agenda." This comes after two senior USCIRF officials raised concerns about alleged vigilante attacks on Sikh gurdwaras in India and urged the US government to hold perpetrators accountable. India's External Affairs Ministry questioned USCIRF's silence on attacks on religious places and racial abuse targeting the Indian community in the US.
Trump seems to have made up his mind that a pliant Pakistan will be more useful than India. We cannot expect a change in Trump's policy towards India in his post midterm poll tenure as America's president, observes Ambassador T N Sreenivasan.
The INDIA bloc is set to hold a 'Chalo Dilli' march on November 1, culminating at Ramlila Maidan. The protest aims to highlight alleged "vote chori" and press for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over voter list irregularities. Rahul Gandhi has urged public participation, assuring them against police action.
Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty surged significantly in early trade, driven by a sharp decline in crude oil prices and optimism surrounding a potential resolution to the West Asia conflict following the US midterm elections, which saw the Democratic Party gain control of Congress. Track Sensex, Nifty on November 5, 2026.
The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has appealed to Congress leader Sonia Gandhi to postpone the party's November 1 rally at Ramlila Maidan. Traders fear the rally, expected to draw 10 lakh people, could cause significant business disruption and traffic congestion in central and old Delhi during the crucial Diwali festive season, potentially leading to losses of Rs 10,000-12,000 crore. The CTI has suggested either rescheduling the rally or moving it to Burari Ground.
