The West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party is trying hard to convince the electorate in the poll-bound state that it is not opposed to fish eating, distancing itself from the popular notion that the party promotes a vegetarian diet.


Fish Takes Centre Stage in West Bengal Election Campaign

As the Tamil Nadu Assembly Election 2026 approaches, the Bharatiya Janata Party has rolled out a manifesto focused on welfare and cultural themes. Key promises include ₹2000 monthly support for women heads of households and free LPG cylinders for families every year. The party is blending economic relief with a focus on faith, aiming to expand its appeal in a state where it is looking to gain ground.


BJP Unveils Tamil Nadu 2026 Manifesto: Cash Aid, Free LPG And Faith Push

Samrat Choudhary is set to become the new Chief Minister of Bihar after being elected leader of the BJP Legislative Party. The move marks a significant political shift in the state, with party leaders rallying behind him to steer governance and development. His swearing-in is expected to set the tone for Bihar’s political direction in the coming months.


BREAKING: Samrat Choudhary To Take Oath As New Bihar CM

Veteran BJP leader Uma Bharti on Sunday (April 12) wrote to the Railway Minister detailing a near-miss at Jhansi Railway Station, where she nearly missed her train due to a series of infrastructure and scheduling issues. She called for urgent reforms to safeguard passengers, especially persons with disabilities, the elderly and common travellers.&nbsp;In a detailed, point-by-point post on X, Bharti said that despite reaching the station well in advance, a chain of avoidable delays led to her boarding the Punjab Mail after it had already begun moving. “I don't know who pulled the chain, and I was seated in the train,” she wrote.&nbsp;The former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, who has a physical disability that limits her mobility, said she had reached Jhansi Railway Station well before the train’s scheduled arrival. Officials in the Jhansi Railway Division were aware of her condition and had arranged a battery-operated cart for movement across platforms. “Even pressing the accelerator could cause me discomfort,” she explained.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-us-to-shortly-begin-naval-blockade-of-strait-of-hormuz-1776001304624">US to ‘shortly’ begin naval blockade of Strait of Hormuz, announces Trump</a>&nbsp;However, a series of unexpected obstacles consumed crucial minutes. While being taken from Platform 1 to Platform 4, a passing train on a crossing track forced a halt. Shortly after, a handcart was found stuck on the track. “My security personnel assisted in removing it,” she wrote. By the time she reached Platform 4, the Punjab Mail had already started moving.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">1. आदरणीय रेल मंत्री जी, मैंने पूर्व में मथुरा रेलवे स्टेशन की यात्रियों के प्रति संवेदनहीनता की बात लिखी है। 2. मेेरे साथ आज फिर झांसी रेलवे स्टेशन पर चढ़ते हुए एक घटना हो गई जिसमें कोई अपराधी नहीं है बल्कि स्टेशनों पर आधुनिक सुविधाओं के निर्माण में व्यावहारिक संवेदनशीलता का…&mdash; Uma Bharti (@umasribharti) <a href="https://twitter.com/umasribharti/status/2043278973438947663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Bharti was careful not to assign individual blame; rather, she underlined systemic lapses. “I do not consider it the fault of the Jhansi Railway officers at all, nor my own; this entire arrangement was operated by the officials running the rails inside the rails,” she wrote, pointing to broader systemic gaps.&nbsp;“Everything was as per schedule; there was no mistake by anyone; yet, three to four minutes were wasted,” she noted, listing the compounding factors, including early train movement, the crossing train and the track obstruction. She also called for a review of CCTV footage at Jhansi Railway Station to verify the sequence of events.&nbsp;The former Union Minister said this was not the first such instance, recalling that she had earlier flagged “insensitivity towards passengers” at Mathura Railway Station. She added that she plans to meet the Railway Minister to discuss both incidents together.&nbsp;Her sharpest remarks were directed at systemic shortcomings affecting vulnerable passengers. “Leave me aside, but common people, persons with disabilities, the elderly, men and women carrying a lot of luggage, and women with children in their laps become victims of this disarray,” she wrote.&nbsp;“We should modernise the railways but also keep the old systems vigilant. Please pay attention to these disorders,” she urged.&nbsp;

In a detailed, point-by-point post on X, Bharti said that despite reaching the station well in advance, a chain of avoidable delays led to her boarding the Punjab Mail after it had already begun moving.

Veteran BJP leader Uma Bharti on Sunday (April 12) wrote to the Railway Minister detailing a near-miss at Jhansi Railway Station, where she nearly missed her train due to a series of infrastructure and scheduling issues. She called for urgent reforms to safeguard passengers, especially persons with disabilities, the elderly and common travellers. In a detailed, point-by-point post on X, Bharti said that despite reaching the station well in advance, a chain of avoidable delays led to her boarding the Punjab Mail after it had already begun moving. “I don't know who pulled the chain, and I was seated in the train,” she wrote. The former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, who has a physical disability that limits her mobility, said she had reached Jhansi Railway Station well before the train’s scheduled arrival. Officials in the Jhansi Railway Division were aware of her condition and had arranged a battery-operated cart for movement across platforms. “Even pressing the accelerator could cause me discomfort,” she explained. Also Read: US to ‘shortly’ begin naval blockade of Strait of Hormuz, announces Trump However, a series of unexpected obstacles consumed crucial minutes. While being taken from Platform 1 to Platform 4, a passing train on a crossing track forced a halt. Shortly after, a handcart was found stuck on the track. “My security personnel assisted in removing it,” she wrote. By the time she reached Platform 4, the Punjab Mail had already started moving.

In a detailed, point-by-point post on X, Bharti said that despite reaching the station well in advance, a chain of avoidable delays led to her boarding the Punjab Mail after it had already begun moving.

'No criminal, just insensitivity': BJP leader Uma Bharti highlights railway infrastructure gaps

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK Chief MK Stalin stepped up his attacks against the Centre-ruling Narendra Modi Government, by raising questions over the proposed delimitation process, which involves redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies to align with population changes. Across Southern states, parties opposed to the BJP have expressed apprehension over this proposed move, citing that the southern region which has effectively controlled its population growth would lose parliamentary representation and political influence, while the populated northern states in the country would gain significantly."Why is the Union BJP Government shrouding the entire delimitation process in secrecy instead of coming clean on how it intends to carry it out? In 2001, former Prime Minister Vajpayee deferred delimitation for 25 years in the national interest. What is Prime Minister Modi’s answer to the just and reasonable demand of southern states to follow the same path today?," read Stalin's social media post.Referring to the ruling BJP's decision to convene a special 3-day Parliament session between April 16th and 18th, Stalin questioned why there is a tearing hurry to convene a special session of Parliament right in the middle of five state elections.Considering that Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Assam, West Bengal are going to the polls this month and its leaders would be busy with campaign-related activities, Opposition leaders had asked the Modi Government to convene the session only after April 29th. Pointing this out, Stalin asked: Why is the Union Government brushing aside the fair and reasoned demand of Opposition leaders to hold the special session only after April 29? What is it trying to hide?"Forcing through far reaching constitutional amendments without even convening an all party consultation is nothing short of dictatorship. The questions raised by the Opposition and the media are not being answered," Stalin alleged, demanding answers from the BJP. &nbsp;He added that the DMK will not stand by and watch any attempt that places the rights of southern states at stake while handing greater power to the North. &nbsp;"This is the future of the people who live here. Any decision taken without our consent, without even engaging with us, will not be accepted, come what may," concluded Stalin's post."Every state in the country stands to benefit from this(delimitation process); no state will suffer any disadvantage. Be it the northeast or South India, the parliamentary representation of regions where population growth has been successfully controlled will certainly not be diminished. We are devising a framework that ensures additional seats are created specifically for women, seats that are over and above the existing number of seats," Prime Minister Modi said recently. However, opposition parties continue are unconvinced and continue to raise objections.Following Prime Minister Modi's comments, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced out that the issue has never been about whether the number of Lok Sabha seats of southern states increases. While every state may see an increase, the rate and scale of increase clearly favour BJP- dominated states, he said."Uttar Pradesh is expected to go from 80 to 120 seats (+40), Maharashtra from 48 to 72 (+24), Bihar from 40 to 60 (+20), Madhya Pradesh from 29 to 43 (+14), Rajasthan from 25 to 37(+12), and Gujarat from 26 to 39 (+13). In contrast, southern states see smaller gains. Karnataka rises from 28 to 42 (+14), Tamil Nadu from 39 to 59 (+20), Andhra Pradesh from 25 to 38 (+13), Telangana from 17 to 25 (+8), and Kerala from 20 to 30 (+10)," Siddaramaiah had shared about the North-South divide, expressing concerns."The numbers are telling. Five southern states together gain barely 63–66 additional seats, while just these seven BJP-dominated states gain about 128–131 seats - nearly double. Even after expanding the Lok Sabha to 816 seats, the collective share of southern states remains around 24% - unchanged and already modest. States that performed better in population control and governance are being penalised, and Karnataka - a key driver of national growth - risks being deliberately sidelined. If our share does not improve while the numerical dominance of larger states grows, what exactly is Karnataka gaining from this exercise, asked the Chief Minister.

Following Prime Minister Modi's comments, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced out that the issue has never been about whether the number of Lok Sabha seats of southern states increases. 

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK Chief MK Stalin stepped up his attacks against the Centre-ruling Narendra Modi Government, by raising questions over the proposed delimitation process, which involves redrawing Lok Sabha constituencies to align with population changes. Across Southern states, parties opposed to the BJP have expressed apprehension over this proposed move, citing that the southern region which has effectively controlled its population growth would lose parliamentary representation and political influence, while the populated northern states in the country would gain significantly. "Why is the Union BJP Government shrouding the entire delimitation process in secrecy instead of coming clean on how it intends to carry it out? In 2001, former Prime Minister Vajpayee deferred delimitation for 25 years in the national interest. What is Prime Minister Modi’s answer to the just and reasonable demand of southern states to follow the same path today?," read Stalin's social media post. Referring to the ruling BJP's decision to convene a special 3-day Parliament session between April 16th and 18th, Stalin questioned why there is a tearing hurry to convene a special session of Parliament right in the middle of five state elections. Considering that Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Assam, West Bengal are going to the polls this month and its leaders would be busy with campaign-related activities, Opposition leaders had asked the Modi Government to convene the session only after April 29th. Pointing this out, Stalin asked: Why is the Union Government brushing aside the fair and reasoned demand of Opposition leaders to hold the special session only after April 29? What is it trying to hide? "Forcing through far reaching constitutional amendments without even convening an all party consultation is nothing short of dictatorship. The questions raised by the Opposition and the media are not being answered," Stalin alleged, demanding answers from the BJP. He added that the DMK will not stand by and watch any attempt that places the rights of southern states at stake while handing greater power to the North. "This is the future of the people who live here. Any decision taken without our consent, without even engaging with us, will not be accepted, come what may," concluded Stalin's post. "Every state in the country stands to benefit from this(delimitation process); no state will suffer any disadvantage. Be it the northeast or South India, the parliamentary representation of regions where population growth has been successfully controlled will certainly not be diminished. We are devising a framework that ensures additional seats are created specifically for women, seats that are over and above the existing number of seats," Prime Minister Modi said recently. However, opposition parties continue are unconvinced and continue to raise objections. Following Prime Minister Modi's comments, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced out that the issue has never been about whether the number of Lok Sabha seats of southern states increases. While every state may see an increase, the rate and scale of increase clearly favour BJP- dominated states, he said. "Uttar Pradesh is expected to go from 80 to 120 seats (+40), Maharashtra from 48 to 72 (+24), Bihar from 40 to 60 (+20), Madhya Pradesh from 29 to 43 (+14), Rajasthan from 25 to 37(+12), and Gujarat from 26 to 39 (+13). In contrast, southern states see smaller gains. Karnataka rises from 28 to 42 (+14), Tamil Nadu from 39 to 59 (+20), Andhra Pradesh from 25 to 38 (+13), Telangana from 17 to 25 (+8), and Kerala from 20 to 30 (+10)," Siddaramaiah had shared about the North-South divide, expressing concerns. "The numbers are telling. Five southern states together gain barely 63–66 additional seats, while just these seven BJP-dominated states gain about 128–131 seats - nearly double. Even after expanding the Lok Sabha to 816 seats, the collective share of southern states remains around 24% - unchanged and already modest. States that performed better in population control and governance are being penalised, and Karnataka - a key driver of national growth - risks being deliberately sidelined. If our share does not improve while the numerical dominance of larger states grows, what exactly is Karnataka gaining from this exercise, asked the Chief Minister.

Following Prime Minister Modi's comments, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah voiced out that the issue has never been about whether the number of Lok Sabha seats of southern states increases.&nbsp;

MK Stalin questions BJP's secrecy over delimitation, flags danger for Southern states

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (April 6, 2026) flagged the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and ‘One Nation, One Election’ as two unfinished agendas of the BJP, and said serious and positive discussions are taking place on them.


PM Narendra Modi Says BJP Must Implement One Nation, One Election & UCC

On the occasion of the 46th foundation day of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (April 6) highlighted ongoing efforts to introduce the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and One Nation One Election, reflecting the party's commitment to national integration and efficient governance.&nbsp;"Serious discussions are taking place in the country today on topics like Uniform Civil Code and One Nation One Election, reflecting our commitment to national integration and efficient governance. Our goal is to build a developed India, a self-reliant India, and we will continue to work selflessly to achieve this goal," Modi said.&nbsp;The Prime Minister was addressing party workers via video conferencing on the occasion, underlining a series of reforms and initiatives.&nbsp;"The end of hundreds of black laws from the British era, the construction of a new Parliament building for democracy, 10 per cent reservation for the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), a law to ban triple talaq, CAA, the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya... these are the results of the BJP's honest efforts. And our mission is still ongoing," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-trying-to-influence-upcoming-assam-polls-cm-himanta-makes-explosive-claim-1775473929927">Pakistan trying to influence upcoming Assam polls? CM Himanta makes EXPLOSIVE claim</a>&nbsp;Furthermore, PM Modi asserted that the party has introduced a new principle in Indian politics: "The principle of Nation First." He contrasted the BJP's governance with past Congress regimes, citing the 1984 period when Congress won a record number of seats but, according to him, betrayed public trust.&nbsp;"We cannot forget that era of 1984 when Congress gained power, but the people of the country were watching how they were being let down. In such circumstances, the trust of the countrymen in the BJP kept growing, and we slowly started winning elections," PM Modi said.&nbsp;The Prime Minister's remarks come as the party continues to expand its political outreach across the country. Modi's mention of the Uniform Civil Code appears to align with the party's wider agenda and election campaigns.&nbsp;The Bharatiya Janata Party traces its origins to the Jana Sangh, which merged with the Janata Party after the Emergency in 1977, intending to defeat the Congress. Later, questions of dual membership arose between RSS members and the Jana Sangh, with a demand that Jana Sangh members either leave the Janata Party or relinquish their RSS membership. The issue led to the Jana Sangh members leaving the Janata Party and officially founding the BJP on April 6, 1980.

The Prime Minister's remarks come as the party continues to expand its political outreach across the country. Modi's mention of the Uniform Civil Code appears to align with the party's wider agenda and election campaigns.

On the occasion of the 46th foundation day of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (April 6) highlighted ongoing efforts to introduce the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and One Nation One Election, reflecting the party's commitment to national integration and efficient governance. "Serious discussions are taking place in the country today on topics like Uniform Civil Code and One Nation One Election, reflecting our commitment to national integration and efficient governance. Our goal is to build a developed India, a self-reliant India, and we will continue to work selflessly to achieve this goal," Modi said. The Prime Minister was addressing party workers via video conferencing on the occasion, underlining a series of reforms and initiatives. "The end of hundreds of black laws from the British era, the construction of a new Parliament building for democracy, 10 per cent reservation for the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), a law to ban triple talaq, CAA, the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya... these are the results of the BJP's honest efforts. And our mission is still ongoing," he said. Also Read: Pakistan trying to influence upcoming Assam polls? CM Himanta makes EXPLOSIVE claim Furthermore, PM Modi asserted that the party has introduced a new principle in Indian politics: "The principle of Nation First." He contrasted the BJP's governance with past Congress regimes, citing the 1984 period when Congress won a record number of seats but, according to him, betrayed public trust. "We cannot forget that era of 1984 when Congress gained power, but the people of the country were watching how they were being let down. In such circumstances, the trust of the countrymen in the BJP kept growing, and we slowly started winning elections," PM Modi said. The Prime Minister's remarks come as the party continues to expand its political outreach across the country. Modi's mention of the Uniform Civil Code appears to align with the party's wider agenda and election campaigns. The Bharatiya Janata Party traces its origins to the Jana Sangh, which merged with the Janata Party after the Emergency in 1977, intending to defeat the Congress. Later, questions of dual membership arose between RSS members and the Jana Sangh, with a demand that Jana Sangh members either leave the Janata Party or relinquish their RSS membership. The issue led to the Jana Sangh members leaving the Janata Party and officially founding the BJP on April 6, 1980.

The Prime Minister's remarks come as the party continues to expand its political outreach across the country. Modi's mention of the Uniform Civil Code appears to align with the party's wider agenda and election campaigns.

PM Modi pitches UCC and One Nation One Election on BJP's 46th Anniversary Ahead of Assembly Elections

The Bharatiya Janata Party, an ally of the opposition AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, has released its list of 27 candidates who will be contesting the 23rd April Assembly poll. At present, the BJP has four MLAs in the 234-seat Tamil Nadu assembly. In the 2021 poll, the BJP had allied with the AIADMK and contested 20 seats, of which the saffron party ended up winning four. In Tamil Nadu, the ruling DMK is allied with the Congress, Left parties, and other outfits. The Opposition AIADMK is allied with the BJP, PMK, AMMK, and other outfits.&nbsp;Vanathi Srinivasan, an incumbent BJP MLA who managed to win against debutant actor-politician Kamal Haasan from Coimbatore South in 2021, has been assigned the Coimbatore North seat this time around.&nbsp;Union Minister L. Murugan, who once served as the Tamil Nadu BJP Chief, is being fielded from Avanashi constituency. In the 2021 poll, Murugan contested from the Dharapuram constituency and ended up losing to a DMK candidate. He was later appointed as a Union Minister.&nbsp;Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan, a former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief, was appointed to a gubernatorial role and later stepped down and rejoined the BJP to contest the 2024 Parliamentary polls, and is being fielded this time around. Tamilisai has been fielded from the Mylapore constituency in Chennai.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-challenging-sanatani-people-himanta-biswa-targets-kunki-chowdhury-over-mother-s-social-media-posts-ahead-of-assam-polls-1775203391965">‘Challenging Sanatani people’: Himanta Biswa targets Kunki Chowdhury over mother’s social media posts ahead of Assam polls</a>&nbsp;Incumbent Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Nainar Nagenthran, presently an MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly and BJP's Legislative leader in the state assembly, has been fielded from the Sattur constituency. In 2021, Nagenthran won from the Tirunelveli constituency.&nbsp;Nagenthran was associated with the AIADMK and even served as a state minister, prior to joining the BJP. Nagenthran had contested the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Tirunelveli, but ended up losing to a Congress candidate.&nbsp;MR Gandhi, a BJP MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly who represents the Nagercoil constituency, has been re-assigned the seat.&nbsp;Vijayadharani, a Congress MLA representing the Vilavancode seat who resigned and joined the BJP, has been assigned the same seat.&nbsp;Former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief and Retired Police Officer K. Annamalai has not been assigned a seat this time. Annamalai had contested unsuccessfully in two elections so far: the 2021 assembly poll from Aravakurichi and in the 2024 Parliamentary poll from Coimbatore. Sharing the candidates' list on social media, Annamalai congratulated his party colleagues and said, "They carry the support of every brother &amp; sister of TN who is tired of corruption, complacency, and the DMK's betrayal".&nbsp;I, as a Karyakarta(party worker) will stand shoulder to shoulder &amp; campaign for all our winning BJP &amp; other NDA candidates, with the aim of the NDA winning 210 seats in the upcoming assembly elections, he added.

Former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief and Retired Police Officer K. Annamalai has not been assigned a seat this time. Annamalai had contested unsuccessfully in two elections so far: the 2021 assembly poll from Aravakurichi and in the 2024 Parliamentary poll from Coimbatore.

The Bharatiya Janata Party, an ally of the opposition AIADMK in Tamil Nadu, has released its list of 27 candidates who will be contesting the 23rd April Assembly poll. At present, the BJP has four MLAs in the 234-seat Tamil Nadu assembly. In the 2021 poll, the BJP had allied with the AIADMK and contested 20 seats, of which the saffron party ended up winning four. In Tamil Nadu, the ruling DMK is allied with the Congress, Left parties, and other outfits. The Opposition AIADMK is allied with the BJP, PMK, AMMK, and other outfits. Vanathi Srinivasan, an incumbent BJP MLA who managed to win against debutant actor-politician Kamal Haasan from Coimbatore South in 2021, has been assigned the Coimbatore North seat this time around. Union Minister L. Murugan, who once served as the Tamil Nadu BJP Chief, is being fielded from Avanashi constituency. In the 2021 poll, Murugan contested from the Dharapuram constituency and ended up losing to a DMK candidate. He was later appointed as a Union Minister. Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan, a former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief, was appointed to a gubernatorial role and later stepped down and rejoined the BJP to contest the 2024 Parliamentary polls, and is being fielded this time around. Tamilisai has been fielded from the Mylapore constituency in Chennai. Also Read: ‘Challenging Sanatani people’: Himanta Biswa targets Kunki Chowdhury over mother’s social media posts ahead of Assam polls Incumbent Tamil Nadu BJP Chief Nainar Nagenthran, presently an MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly and BJP's Legislative leader in the state assembly, has been fielded from the Sattur constituency. In 2021, Nagenthran won from the Tirunelveli constituency. Nagenthran was associated with the AIADMK and even served as a state minister, prior to joining the BJP. Nagenthran had contested the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Tirunelveli, but ended up losing to a Congress candidate. MR Gandhi, a BJP MLA in the Tamil Nadu assembly who represents the Nagercoil constituency, has been re-assigned the seat. Vijayadharani, a Congress MLA representing the Vilavancode seat who resigned and joined the BJP, has been assigned the same seat. Former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief and Retired Police Officer K. Annamalai has not been assigned a seat this time. Annamalai had contested unsuccessfully in two elections so far: the 2021 assembly poll from Aravakurichi and in the 2024 Parliamentary poll from Coimbatore. Sharing the candidates' list on social media, Annamalai congratulated his party colleagues and said, "They carry the support of every brother & sister of TN who is tired of corruption, complacency, and the DMK's betrayal". I, as a Karyakarta(party worker) will stand shoulder to shoulder & campaign for all our winning BJP & other NDA candidates, with the aim of the NDA winning 210 seats in the upcoming assembly elections, he added.

Former Tamil Nadu BJP Chief and Retired Police Officer K. Annamalai has not been assigned a seat this time. Annamalai had contested unsuccessfully in two elections so far: the 2021 assembly poll from Aravakurichi and in the 2024 Parliamentary poll from Coimbatore.

Tamil Nadu polls: BJP releases list of 27 candidates; K Annamalai not included

As the Election Commission's circular with a seal of the BJP Kerala Unit sparked a major controversy, an official clarification came explaining it was a “clerical error”. The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) submitted an old 2019 ECI guideline to the Chief Electoral Officer’s office to ask for clarification on the publication of criminal antecedents of candidates. The Election Commission suggested that the same document was mistakenly forwarded to other parties for the same clarification. The explanation raised more questions than it settled. Several posts reporting the story were deleted from Social media, under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act. Notices sent to some journalists by the Kerala Police said that the content reporting the story “undermines communal harmony.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-modi-foreign-policy-iran-crisis-india-1774348116061">'A universal joke': Rahul Gandhi attacks Narendra Modi over foreign policy amid Iran war</a><h2>Why official explanation raise more questions than it answers?</h2>Opposition parties like the Trinamool Congress, Indian National Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist) alleged that earlier there were just allegations of collusion between Bharatiya Janata Party and the Election Commission, but now the seal proves that the Election Commission and BJP are working together. CPI(M) Kerala shared the image widely, asking the BJP to at least have the courtesy to have a “separate desk”.According to the official explanation, ECI forwarded the same ECI guidelines which the BJP submitted while seeking clarification on the same matter. It is baffling why the ECI would forward the same document which was sent by one political party seeking an explanation on any matter to other polictical party. If ECI was using the document as the master copy, does this imply that ECI takes BJP's confidence before issuing guidelines? Now it further raises the question of what else the ECI is seeking advice on from the ruling party, and if the apex poll body has forsaken its neutrality, as the opposition is claiming. Following the incident, as the story was reported, those reports were taken down, citing issues of communal harmony. Further, as ECI was suggesting that the incident was a “clerical error”, the BJP IT cell head was calling it “fake news”.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;

ECI’s “clerical error” explanation over a BJP Kerala circular has sparked controversy, with opposition questioning the poll body’s neutrality.

As the Election Commission's circular with a seal of the BJP Kerala Unit sparked a major controversy, an official clarification came explaining it was a “clerical error”. The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) submitted an old 2019 ECI guideline to the Chief Electoral Officer’s office to ask for clarification on the publication of criminal antecedents of candidates. The Election Commission suggested that the same document was mistakenly forwarded to other parties for the same clarification. The explanation raised more questions than it settled. Several posts reporting the story were deleted from Social media, under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act. Notices sent to some journalists by the Kerala Police said that the content reporting the story “undermines communal harmony.” Also Read: 'A universal joke': Rahul Gandhi attacks Narendra Modi over foreign policy amid Iran war Why official explanation raise more questions than it answers? Opposition parties like the Trinamool Congress, Indian National Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist) alleged that earlier there were just allegations of collusion between Bharatiya Janata Party and the Election Commission, but now the seal proves that the Election Commission and BJP are working together. CPI(M) Kerala shared the image widely, asking the BJP to at least have the courtesy to have a “separate desk”. According to the official explanation, ECI forwarded the same ECI guidelines which the BJP submitted while seeking clarification on the same matter. It is baffling why the ECI would forward the same document which was sent by one political party seeking an explanation on any matter to other polictical party. If ECI was using the document as the master copy, does this imply that ECI takes BJP's confidence before issuing guidelines? Now it further raises the question of what else the ECI is seeking advice on from the ruling party, and if the apex poll body has forsaken its neutrality, as the opposition is claiming. Following the incident, as the story was reported, those reports were taken down, citing issues of communal harmony. Further, as ECI was suggesting that the incident was a “clerical error”, the BJP IT cell head was calling it “fake news”.

ECI’s “clerical error” explanation over a BJP Kerala circular has sparked controversy, with opposition questioning the poll body’s neutrality.

Why ECI’s 'clerical error' explanation on BJP Kerala Circular is facing scrutiny?

With exactly a month to go for the polling day(April 23rd) in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, seat-sharing between the major National Democratic Alliance partners in the state has been announced. The NDA in Tamil Nadu is led by the state's Principal opposition party, AIADMK. The BJP, AMMK, PMK, and many small parties are part of this alliance. As for major allies, the BJP is being allocated 27 seats, PMK is being allocated 18 seats, and AMMK is being allocated 11 seats. Tamil Nadu has a total of 234 assembly constituencies.&nbsp;This announcement was made during BJP leader and Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal's Chennai visit. Following a brief meeting with NDA leaders at a private venue in the city, Goyal visited the AIADMK Headquarters, where AIADMK Chief Edappadi Palaniswami revealed the number of seats being allocated. Goyal, who is BJP's Election in-charge for Tamil Nadu, is visiting the state following the weekend meetings that AIADMK and AMMK chiefs held in New Delhi with Union Home Minister and BJP's Chief election strategist Amit Shah.&nbsp;"Tamil Nadu today is ready for an NDA Government. A strong NDA under the guidance and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi, who yesterday surpassed the record and became the longest-serving head of government in the history of India. Having served for nearly 25 years as Chief Minister and Prime Minister, he has shown how good governance can transform the destiny of the people of India," Goyal said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/war-drums-in-west-green-energy-in-bharat-india-powers-global-south-at-bharat-electricity-summit-2026-1774267093285">War drums in West, green energy in Bharat! India powers Global South at Bharat Electricity Summit 2026</a>&nbsp;He added that the people of Tamil Nadu want a government led by the future Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami. "A government that will bring development for farmers, fishermen, MSMEs, industry, provide jobs to youth, give opportunity to startups, provide quality healthcare and education, will give houses for the poor, ensure that everybody gets opportunity to prosper in life," Goyal said, describing the NDA's vision for Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;A developed Tamil Nadu will lead to a developed India. We will ensure that Tamil pride, culture, language, and the people of the state, have a very bright future, he added.&nbsp; While the national ruling party BJP, has been allocated 27 seats in the AIADMK-led Opposition front, Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK has allocated 28 seats to their longstanding ally Congress, which is the principal opposition party at the national level.&nbsp;In the 2021 Assembly poll, BJP was allocated 20 seats as part of the AIADMK-led front, of which the BJP ended up winning four seats. The AIADMK's 10-year streak in power came to an end in 2021, as the DMK led by MK Stalin won the elections.

The NDA in Tamil Nadu is led by the state's Principal opposition party, AIADMK. The BJP, AMMK, PMK, and many small parties are part of this alliance. As for major allies, the BJP is being allocated 27 seats, PMK is being allocated 18 seats, and AMMK is being allocated 11 seats.

With exactly a month to go for the polling day(April 23rd) in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, seat-sharing between the major National Democratic Alliance partners in the state has been announced. The NDA in Tamil Nadu is led by the state's Principal opposition party, AIADMK. The BJP, AMMK, PMK, and many small parties are part of this alliance. As for major allies, the BJP is being allocated 27 seats, PMK is being allocated 18 seats, and AMMK is being allocated 11 seats. Tamil Nadu has a total of 234 assembly constituencies. This announcement was made during BJP leader and Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal's Chennai visit. Following a brief meeting with NDA leaders at a private venue in the city, Goyal visited the AIADMK Headquarters, where AIADMK Chief Edappadi Palaniswami revealed the number of seats being allocated. Goyal, who is BJP's Election in-charge for Tamil Nadu, is visiting the state following the weekend meetings that AIADMK and AMMK chiefs held in New Delhi with Union Home Minister and BJP's Chief election strategist Amit Shah. "Tamil Nadu today is ready for an NDA Government. A strong NDA under the guidance and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi, who yesterday surpassed the record and became the longest-serving head of government in the history of India. Having served for nearly 25 years as Chief Minister and Prime Minister, he has shown how good governance can transform the destiny of the people of India," Goyal said. Also Read: War drums in West, green energy in Bharat! India powers Global South at Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 He added that the people of Tamil Nadu want a government led by the future Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami. "A government that will bring development for farmers, fishermen, MSMEs, industry, provide jobs to youth, give opportunity to startups, provide quality healthcare and education, will give houses for the poor, ensure that everybody gets opportunity to prosper in life," Goyal said, describing the NDA's vision for Tamil Nadu. A developed Tamil Nadu will lead to a developed India. We will ensure that Tamil pride, culture, language, and the people of the state, have a very bright future, he added. While the national ruling party BJP, has been allocated 27 seats in the AIADMK-led Opposition front, Tamil Nadu's ruling DMK has allocated 28 seats to their longstanding ally Congress, which is the principal opposition party at the national level. In the 2021 Assembly poll, BJP was allocated 20 seats as part of the AIADMK-led front, of which the BJP ended up winning four seats. The AIADMK's 10-year streak in power came to an end in 2021, as the DMK led by MK Stalin won the elections.

The NDA in Tamil Nadu is led by the state's Principal opposition party, AIADMK. The BJP, AMMK, PMK, and many small parties are part of this alliance. As for major allies, the BJP is being allocated 27 seats, PMK is being allocated 18 seats, and AMMK is being allocated 11 seats.

Tamil Nadu NDA seat-sharing deal: BJP to contest in 27 seats

In a major development in the Excise Policy case, a court has discharged former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The ruling marks a significant turn in the high-profile case linked to the now-scrapped excise policy.


Breaking | Excise Policy Case: Court Discharges Former Delhi CM Kejriwal | WION

Authorities in Delhi have arrested eight individuals for allegedly being linked to a terror plot with suspected connections to Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the ISI. Officials say the arrests followed a detailed investigation and intelligence inputs pointing to a coordinated conspiracy aimed at destabilising security. Security agencies are now probing the network, funding channels and possible wider links, while heightened vigilance has been put in place across the national capital to prevent any potential threat.


Tamil Nadu Terror Plot: BJP vs DMK Over Busted Plot | Suspects Arrested For Posting Pro-Pak Content

Based on the provided search results, there is no indication that BJP MP Tejasvi Surya hosted a U.S. Ambassador named "Sergio Lor" in Bengaluru.


BJP MP Tejasvi Surya Hosts US Ambassador Sergio Lor in Bengaluru

BJP workers in Telangana are protesting and demanding a thorough inquiry following the alleged suicide of a party candidate, reportedly linked to harassment. The incident, which has led to high security at the DGP office, occurred just before local elections, causing significant tension. Protesters are seeking justice for the alleged suicide, which emerged amidst the civic poll developments. 


Telangana Civic Polls: BJP Workers Protest; Demand Justice For Alleged Suicide of Candidate

In a heated political development, a BJP MP has moved a motion against Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha, alleging that the Congress leader misled the House during discussions. This move has intensified parliamentary debates, with both ruling and opposition members expressing strong views. Political analysts suggest the motion could have significant implications for parliamentary proceedings and the credibility of statements made in the House.

Parliament Update: BJP MP Moves Motion Against Rahul Gandhi in Parliament | WION 

Karnataka BJP has alleged a multi-crore excise scam involving over ₹6,00 crore. The party’s state chief has called for a thorough investigation into the alleged financial irregularities, intensifying political scrutiny in the state.


Karnataka BJP Alleges Multi-Crore Excise Scam, Demands Investigation 

The BJP is making significant inroads into Kerala’s political landscape. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to participate in a roadshow in Thiruvananthapuram, signaling the party’s growing focus on the southern state ahead of upcoming elections.

BJP Expands Presence in Kerala; PM Modi to Join Thiruvananthapuram Roadshow

The Saffron party ushered in a new era with the leadership change at the top as BJP leader Nitin Nabin took charge as the party's new national president in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior leaders, including Former president JP Nadda, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, along with Chief Ministers of states.&nbsp;With assuming responsibility, Nabin, 45, becomes the youngest national president of the BJP, surpassing Nitin Gadkari's record, who held the post at the age of 52. The ruling party's choice to appoint a young chief reflects the changing of generations and shift towards young leadership in the organisation.&nbsp;Hailing the appointment of Nitin Nabin as BJP national president, PM &nbsp;Modi said that when it comes to the party, Nitin Nabin is the boss, and he himself is a mere party worker.Addressing a gathering at the BJP headquarters in the national captial PM Modi congratulated Nabin on being elected president of what he described as the world's largest political party and said his responsibility goes beyond managing the BJP.&nbsp;"When it is about the party, Nitin Nabin is the boss, and I am a party worker. Now Honourable Nitin Nabin ji is the president of all of us, and his responsibility is not just to manage the BJP, but also to ensure coordination among all NDA allies," the Prime Minister said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-davos-china-s-he-lifeng-warns-against-law-of-the-jungle-amid-us-greenland-push-1768908964255">At Davos, China’s He Lifeng warns against ‘law of the jungle’ amid US Greenland push</a>&nbsp;Stressing the significance of the coming decades, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the next 25 years would be crucial for building a developed India and asserted that this goal was destined to be achieved. He said this period would define the nation’s future.&nbsp;Expressing confidence in the new chief Nitin Nabin, Modi said that at the start of this decisive phase, Nitin Nabin would carry forward the party’s legacy. He said the BJP trusted him to lead during this important transition.&nbsp;Referring to generational change within the party, the Prime Minister described Nitin Nabin as a “millennial” in the language of today’s youth. He said the 45-year-old leader belonged to a generation that had witnessed sweeping economic, social and technological changes. Modi noted that Nabin grew up receiving information through the radio and had now become an active user of artificial intelligence.&nbsp;Modi said Nitin Nabin combined youthful energy with extensive experience in organisational work, adding that this blend would greatly benefit BJP workers across the party.

With assuming responsibility, Nabin, 45, becomes the youngest national president of the BJP, surpassing Nitin Gadkari's record, who held the post at the age of 52.

The Saffron party ushered in a new era with the leadership change at the top as BJP leader Nitin Nabin took charge as the party's new national president in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior leaders, including Former president JP Nadda, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, along with Chief Ministers of states. With assuming responsibility, Nabin, 45, becomes the youngest national president of the BJP, surpassing Nitin Gadkari's record, who held the post at the age of 52. The ruling party's choice to appoint a young chief reflects the changing of generations and shift towards young leadership in the organisation. Hailing the appointment of Nitin Nabin as BJP national president, PM Modi said that when it comes to the party, Nitin Nabin is the boss, and he himself is a mere party worker. Addressing a gathering at the BJP headquarters in the national captial PM Modi congratulated Nabin on being elected president of what he described as the world's largest political party and said his responsibility goes beyond managing the BJP. "When it is about the party, Nitin Nabin is the boss, and I am a party worker. Now Honourable Nitin Nabin ji is the president of all of us, and his responsibility is not just to manage the BJP, but also to ensure coordination among all NDA allies," the Prime Minister said. Also Read: At Davos, China’s He Lifeng warns against ‘law of the jungle’ amid US Greenland push Stressing the significance of the coming decades, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the next 25 years would be crucial for building a developed India and asserted that this goal was destined to be achieved. He said this period would define the nation’s future. Expressing confidence in the new chief Nitin Nabin, Modi said that at the start of this decisive phase, Nitin Nabin would carry forward the party’s legacy. He said the BJP trusted him to lead during this important transition. Referring to generational change within the party, the Prime Minister described Nitin Nabin as a “millennial” in the language of today’s youth. He said the 45-year-old leader belonged to a generation that had witnessed sweeping economic, social and technological changes. Modi noted that Nabin grew up receiving information through the radio and had now become an active user of artificial intelligence. Modi said Nitin Nabin combined youthful energy with extensive experience in organisational work, adding that this blend would greatly benefit BJP workers across the party.

With assuming responsibility, Nabin, 45, becomes the youngest national president of the BJP, surpassing Nitin Gadkari's record, who held the post at the age of 52.

‘Nitin Nabin is my boss; I am just a party worker’: PM Modi hails youngest BJP chief

BJP leader Nitin Nabin has been elected unopposed as the party’s new national president and will formally take charge today at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. The transition is scheduled in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior leaders including Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh, as Nabin succeeds outgoing chief J P Nadda.​


BJP: Nitin Nabin becomes youngest party chief at 45

BJP: Nitin Nabin elected 12th national party president, replaces JP Nadda

India's Budget 2026 is just days away now. As we countdown to the big day we look at how India raises revenue from taxing sin products. The spotlight of today's story is the revised sin tax on cigarettes and tobacco products. Can such moves actually raise government revenue? 


Are Cigarette Taxes Pushing Smokers Underground in India? | World Business Watch

Amid the prevailing row over Election Commission of India(ECI)'s special intensive revision (SIR) in West Bengal, TMC National General Secretary and MP, Abhishek Banerjee, on Monday (Jan 19) welcomed the Supreme Court's decision directing the Election Commission to display the names of the electors falling under the 'logical discrepancies' category in the ongoing SIR of the electoral rolls in West Bengal.&nbsp;The TMC MP dubbed the decision a defeat for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying that the apex court accepted the party's demand of publishing the names in the 'logical discrepancies' category.&nbsp;"There was a hearing in the Supreme Court regarding SIR, with AITC having filed the case. About 20 days ago, on December 31, we held a meeting with the Chief Election Commissioner. It was suggested that the list of logical discrepancies be published. If they had published the list, the truth would have become clear. We mentioned that BLA 2 of AITC would be present at the hearing venue, but ECI rejected it," Banerjee said, addressing a rally in West Bengal's Barasat.&nbsp;The controversy erupted after more than 1.2 crore names were flagged under the ‘logical discrepancy’ category on the ERONET portal, reigniting the row over the SIR exercise in the state. Banerjee expressed confidence in the party's victory in the upcoming assembly polls, stating that West Bengal is not Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, and that the state never bowed before outsiders.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-trump-s-peace-board-invite-france-says-it-s-committed-to-un-charter-1768837481172">After Trump’s peace board invite, France says it's committed to UN charter</a>

"Today BJP and PM Modi have been defeated in court; in the coming days, they will be defeated by votes. This is not Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, or Gujarat. This land has shown the way to the freedom movement and the Renaissance. We never bow our heads to outsiders. The people of Bengal do not know how to sell their spine or live in slavery," he said. Earlier in the day, a three-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued directions to the Election Commission while hearing pleas alleging procedural irregularities in the SIR exercise in West Bengal.&nbsp;The apex court noted that the ECI had issued notices to individuals classified under the ‘logical discrepancies’ category. To ensure that those affected are informed, the court directed that the names of such persons be displayed at Gram Panchayat Bhavans, Block Offices and Ward Offices.

The TMC MP dubbed the decision a defeat for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying that the apex court accepted the party's demand of publishing the names in the 'logical discrepancies' category.

Amid the prevailing row over Election Commission of India(ECI)'s special intensive revision (SIR) in West Bengal, TMC National General Secretary and MP, Abhishek Banerjee, on Monday (Jan 19) welcomed the Supreme Court's decision directing the Election Commission to display the names of the electors falling under the 'logical discrepancies' category in the ongoing SIR of the electoral rolls in West Bengal. The TMC MP dubbed the decision a defeat for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying that the apex court accepted the party's demand of publishing the names in the 'logical discrepancies' category. "There was a hearing in the Supreme Court regarding SIR, with AITC having filed the case. About 20 days ago, on December 31, we held a meeting with the Chief Election Commissioner. It was suggested that the list of logical discrepancies be published. If they had published the list, the truth would have become clear. We mentioned that BLA 2 of AITC would be present at the hearing venue, but ECI rejected it," Banerjee said, addressing a rally in West Bengal's Barasat. The controversy erupted after more than 1.2 crore names were flagged under the ‘logical discrepancy’ category on the ERONET portal, reigniting the row over the SIR exercise in the state. Banerjee expressed confidence in the party's victory in the upcoming assembly polls, stating that West Bengal is not Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, and that the state never bowed before outsiders. Also Read: After Trump’s peace board invite, France says it's committed to UN charter

The TMC MP dubbed the decision a defeat for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying that the apex court accepted the party's demand of publishing the names in the 'logical discrepancies' category.

'BJP, PM Modi defeated in court': Abhishek Banerjee hails SC order on voter roll transparency as victory for Bengal

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led Mahayuti alliance has emerged as the clear frontrunner in Mumbai to dethrone the Thackrey family's decades-long hold on the prized municipality. The BJP is leading or won on 88 seats while the ally Shiv Sena (Shinde) is ahead in 28 constituencies, taking the alliance comfortably past the halfway mark of 114 out of 227 wards, according to the latest trends. &nbsp; The Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena is winning or leading 72 seats as per the latest available data, down from 84 seats it won before the split of Shiv Sena in 2017, while Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) was ahead on 6 seats, and the Congress was leading on 24 seats.&nbsp;PM Modi expressed gratitude towards voters for the NDA alliance for victory and vowed to deliver ‘Ease of Living’ to Mumbaikers. In a post on X, he posted, “Mumbai is the pride of our nation. It is the city of aspiration. It is a city that drives our growth. I am extremely grateful to my sisters and brothers of Mumbai for blessing the NDA. Mumbai personifies the best of Maharashtra’s vibrant culture. Inspired by this great ethos, we will deliver good governance and ‘Ease of Living’ to the people of the city”. The local body poll in Asia's richest civic body, the &nbsp;Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), has become one of the most intensely fought battles as it become a battle of survival for Thackereys after Eknath Shinde split the Shiv Sena to ally with the BJP.&nbsp;Mumbai civic body, which has been a bastion of the Thackrey family, conducted the elections after nearly nine years following repated dealays due to legal, administrative and ward-boundary disputes since the previous 2017 election.&nbsp;Following a setback in Maharashtra politics after losses in the Assembly elections, estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray announced a pre-poll alliance, bringing together the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) after nearly two decades of rivalry. The move aims to consolidate Marathi votes and challenge the dominant BJP–Shiv Sena (Shinde) Mahayuti alliance in India’s richest civic body.&nbsp;<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Ward Number</th><th>Winner</th><th>Party</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>Rekha Yadav</td><td>Shiv Sena</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Tejaswini Ghosalkar</td><td>BJP</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Prakash Darekar</td><td>BJP</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Mangesh Pangare</td><td>Shiv Sena</td></tr><tr><td>51</td><td>Varsha Tembwalkar</td><td>Shiv Sena</td></tr><tr><td>59</td><td>Shailesh Phanse</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>60</td><td>Sayali Kulkarni</td><td>BJP</td></tr><tr><td>75</td><td>Pramod Chavan</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>89</td><td>Gitesh Raut</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>90</td><td>Tulip Miranda</td><td>Congress</td></tr><tr><td>135</td><td>Navnath Ban</td><td>BJP</td></tr><tr><td>147</td><td>Pragya Sadafule</td><td>Shiv Sena</td></tr><tr><td>163</td><td>Shaila Lande</td><td>Shiv Sena</td></tr><tr><td>173</td><td>Shilpa Keluskar</td><td>BJP</td></tr><tr><td>182</td><td>Milind Vidya</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>183</td><td>Asha Kale</td><td>Congress</td></tr><tr><td>184</td><td>Sajidani Babu Khan</td><td>Congress</td></tr><tr><td>185</td><td>T M Jagdish</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>186</td><td>Archana Shinde</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>187</td><td>Joseph Koli</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>188</td><td>Bhaskar R Shetty</td><td>Shiv Sena</td></tr><tr><td>190</td><td>Sheetal Gambhir</td><td>BJP</td></tr><tr><td>191</td><td>Vishakha Raut</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>193</td><td>Hemangi Woralikar</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>194</td><td>Nishikant Shinde</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>207</td><td>Rohidas Lokhande</td><td>BJP</td></tr><tr><td>208</td><td>Ramakant Rahate</td><td>Shiv Sena (UBT)</td></tr><tr><td>209</td><td>Yamini Jadhav</td><td>Shiv Sena</td></tr><tr><td>214</td><td>Ajit Patil</td><td>BJP</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

As per the latest available trends, the BJP-led alliance is ahead on 112 seats while the Thackrey brothers are leading on 70 seats out of 227-member Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led Mahayuti alliance has emerged as the clear frontrunner in Mumbai to dethrone the Thackrey family's decades-long hold on the prized municipality. The BJP is leading or won on 88 seats while the ally Shiv Sena (Shinde) is ahead in 28 constituencies, taking the alliance comfortably past the halfway mark of 114 out of 227 wards, according to the latest trends. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena is winning or leading 72 seats as per the latest available data, down from 84 seats it won before the split of Shiv Sena in 2017, while Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) was ahead on 6 seats, and the Congress was leading on 24 seats. PM Modi expressed gratitude towards voters for the NDA alliance for victory and vowed to deliver ‘Ease of Living’ to Mumbaikers. In a post on X, he posted, “Mumbai is the pride of our nation. It is the city of aspiration. It is a city that drives our growth. I am extremely grateful to my sisters and brothers of Mumbai for blessing the NDA. Mumbai personifies the best of Maharashtra’s vibrant culture. Inspired by this great ethos, we will deliver good governance and ‘Ease of Living’ to the people of the city”. The local body poll in Asia's richest civic body, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), has become one of the most intensely fought battles as it become a battle of survival for Thackereys after Eknath Shinde split the Shiv Sena to ally with the BJP. Mumbai civic body, which has been a bastion of the Thackrey family, conducted the elections after nearly nine years following repated dealays due to legal, administrative and ward-boundary disputes since the previous 2017 election. Following a setback in Maharashtra politics after losses in the Assembly elections, estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray announced a pre-poll alliance, bringing together the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) after nearly two decades of rivalry. The move aims to consolidate Marathi votes and challenge the dominant BJP–Shiv Sena (Shinde) Mahayuti alliance in India’s richest civic body. Ward Number Winner Party 1 Rekha Yadav Shiv Sena 2 Tejaswini Ghosalkar BJP 3 Prakash Darekar BJP 4 Mangesh Pangare Shiv Sena 51 Varsha Tembwalkar Shiv Sena 59 Shailesh Phanse Shiv Sena (UBT) 60 Sayali Kulkarni BJP 75 Pramod Chavan Shiv Sena (UBT) 89 Gitesh Raut Shiv Sena (UBT) 90 Tulip Miranda Congress 135 Navnath Ban BJP 147 Pragya Sadafule Shiv Sena 163 Shaila Lande Shiv Sena 173 Shilpa Keluskar BJP 182 Milind Vidya Shiv Sena (UBT) 183 Asha Kale Congress 184 Sajidani Babu Khan Congress 185 T M Jagdish Shiv Sena (UBT) 186 Archana Shinde Shiv Sena (UBT) 187 Joseph Koli Shiv Sena (UBT) 188 Bhaskar R Shetty Shiv Sena 190 Sheetal Gambhir BJP 191 Vishakha Raut Shiv Sena (UBT) 193 Hemangi Woralikar Shiv Sena (UBT) 194 Nishikant Shinde Shiv Sena (UBT) 207 Rohidas Lokhande BJP 208 Ramakant Rahate Shiv Sena (UBT) 209 Yamini Jadhav Shiv Sena 214 Ajit Patil BJP

As per the latest available trends, the BJP-led alliance is ahead on 112 seats while the Thackrey brothers are leading on 70 seats out of 227-member Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

BMC results: BJP-led Mahayuti sweeps Mumbai, check full list of winners

BJP-Shiv Sena alliance surges past majority in Mumbai BMC polls, poised to shatter Thackeray family's 25-year stronghold and install a mayor after four years without an elected head.


Mumbai Civic Polls: Thackeray Family poised to lose BMC

The BJP on Friday issued a notification for the election of its new party president. Nominations will be filed on Monday, with voting on Tuesday if any candidate other than working president Nitin Nabin enters the race. Below is the list of BJP presidents since the party’s formation in 1980.

The BJP on Friday issued a notification for the election of its new party president. Nominations will be filed on Monday, with voting on Tuesday if any candidate other than working president Nitin Nabin enters the race. Below is the list of BJP presidents since the party’s formation in 1980.

From Atal Bihari Vajpayee to JP Nadda: BJP presidents over the years as Nitin Nabin set to become new chief

The Saffron party is ushering in new era with leadership change at the top as the &nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday (Jan 16) issued a notification for the election of its new party president, with nomination to be filed on Monday and the elections to be held on Tuesday, if any other candidates apart from working president Nitin Nabin enters the fray.&nbsp;According to the notification, the nominations will be filled on Monday between 2 pm and 4 pm, followed by the scrutiny of forms between 4 pm and 5 pm. Candidates can withdraw their nominations from 5 pm to 6 pm if the need arises.&nbsp;“The election will be conducted on Tuesday if the need arises; otherwise, the announcement will be made the same day,” the notification said.&nbsp;Nitin Nabin is likely to become the BJP president unopposed, as JP Nadda, the current president, was appointed as working president in 2019 before his appointment as national president in January 2020.&nbsp;On December 14, the saffron party had appointed the five-term member of of legistilative assembly and Bihar Minister Nitin Nabin as the working national president. According to the official notification issued by the party's national returning officer and Rajya Sabha MP K Laxman, the electoral rolls of the party will be published at 12 noon, and the enrolment process for the candidates will start on January 19.<h2>How BJP president elected?</h2>According to Article 19 of the BJP Constitution, the election of the party president is conducted through an electoral college comprising members of the National Council and State Councils. The election process follows the rules framed by the party’s National Executive.&nbsp;Any 20 members of the electoral college can jointly propose a candidate for the post of party president. The nominee must be an active member for at least four terms and should have completed 15 years of total party membership. If the electoral college does not receive more than one nomination, the candidate is declared elected unopposed, and no voting is required.&nbsp;The BJP National Council includes members elected by state councils, along with 10 per cent of BJP Members of Parliament, elected by party MPs. However, the number of such MPs cannot be fewer than 10; if it is, all are included automatically. Other members of the National Council include former national presidents, state unit presidents, leaders of the party in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and leaders in state assemblies and legislative councils.&nbsp;The State Councils are formed with members elected by district units, 10 per cent of party legislators, and 10 per cent of MPs from the state. They also include all National Council members from the state, former state presidents, members of the state executive, leaders in state legislatures, and nominated members, capped at 25, appointed by the state president and other authorised leaders.

Nitin Nabin is likely to become the BJP president unopposed, as JP Nadda, the current president, was appointed as working president in 2019 before his appointment as national president in January 2020.

The Saffron party is ushering in new era with leadership change at the top as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday (Jan 16) issued a notification for the election of its new party president, with nomination to be filed on Monday and the elections to be held on Tuesday, if any other candidates apart from working president Nitin Nabin enters the fray. According to the notification, the nominations will be filled on Monday between 2 pm and 4 pm, followed by the scrutiny of forms between 4 pm and 5 pm. Candidates can withdraw their nominations from 5 pm to 6 pm if the need arises. “The election will be conducted on Tuesday if the need arises; otherwise, the announcement will be made the same day,” the notification said. Nitin Nabin is likely to become the BJP president unopposed, as JP Nadda, the current president, was appointed as working president in 2019 before his appointment as national president in January 2020. On December 14, the saffron party had appointed the five-term member of of legistilative assembly and Bihar Minister Nitin Nabin as the working national president. According to the official notification issued by the party's national returning officer and Rajya Sabha MP K Laxman, the electoral rolls of the party will be published at 12 noon, and the enrolment process for the candidates will start on January 19. How BJP president elected? According to Article 19 of the BJP Constitution, the election of the party president is conducted through an electoral college comprising members of the National Council and State Councils. The election process follows the rules framed by the party’s National Executive. Any 20 members of the electoral college can jointly propose a candidate for the post of party president. The nominee must be an active member for at least four terms and should have completed 15 years of total party membership. If the electoral college does not receive more than one nomination, the candidate is declared elected unopposed, and no voting is required. The BJP National Council includes members elected by state councils, along with 10 per cent of BJP Members of Parliament, elected by party MPs. However, the number of such MPs cannot be fewer than 10; if it is, all are included automatically. Other members of the National Council include former national presidents, state unit presidents, leaders of the party in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and leaders in state assemblies and legislative councils. The State Councils are formed with members elected by district units, 10 per cent of party legislators, and 10 per cent of MPs from the state. They also include all National Council members from the state, former state presidents, members of the state executive, leaders in state legislatures, and nominated members, capped at 25, appointed by the state president and other authorised leaders.

Nitin Nabin is likely to become the BJP president unopposed, as JP Nadda, the current president, was appointed as working president in 2019 before his appointment as national president in January 2020.

Nitin Nabin set to replace Nadda as BJP president after party issues notification for election: How BJP chief is chosen?

The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is heading towards a comfortable majority in Mumbai's municipal elections, dethroning the Thackeray family from India's richest civic body after 28 years, who have been at the helm with different alliances. As a result, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will get a BJP-Shiv Sena (Shinde) Mayor for the first time in India's financial capital.&nbsp;The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, surpassed its previous top mark of 82 seats in 2017, with winning or leading on 90 seats, while Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena (Shinde) leading in 28 seats, out of 227 wards of the BMC.&nbsp;The Shiv Sena (UBT) alliance has managed to cross the 85 mark, with Raj Thackrey-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) only leading in 9, and Uddhav Thackery's UBT Sena leading in 76, and NCP (SP) with zero seats.&nbsp;Similarly, Ajit Pawar's NCP is also leading in 0 seats, while the Congress party continued to have a dismal performance with leads in only 11 seats.&nbsp;The similar trends followed in other Municipal corporations, the BJP dominates the trends emerging across the state in 28 other municipal corporations, emerging as the leading party in Nagpur, Pune, Thane, Nashik, and Shambhajinagar Municipal Corporations.&nbsp;The 2026 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election, held on 15 January 2026, marked the first civic poll in Mumbai in nearly nine years, following repeated delays due to legal, administrative and ward-boundary disputes since the previous 2017 election.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/snowfall-starts-in-gulmarg-sonamarg-other-higher-reaches-of-kashmir-valley-1768560707862">Snowfall starts in Gulmarg, Sonamarg, other higher reaches of Kashmir Valley</a>&nbsp;In a notable political development ahead of the polls, estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray announced a pre-poll alliance, bringing together the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) after almost two decades of rivalry, in an effort to consolidate Marathi votes and challenge the dominant BJP-Shiv Sena (Shinde) Mahayuti alliance in India’s richest civic body.&nbsp;This reunion of the Thackeray brothers’ factions generated significant attention as it symbolised a historic political overture in Maharashtra, even as major parties and alliances contested vigorously across Mumbai’s 227 wards.&nbsp;

The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, surpassed its previous top mark of 82 seats in 2017, with winning or leading on 90 seats, while Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena (Shinde) leading in 28 seats, out of 227 wards of the BMC.

The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance is heading towards a comfortable majority in Mumbai's municipal elections, dethroning the Thackeray family from India's richest civic body after 28 years, who have been at the helm with different alliances. As a result, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will get a BJP-Shiv Sena (Shinde) Mayor for the first time in India's financial capital. The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, surpassed its previous top mark of 82 seats in 2017, with winning or leading on 90 seats, while Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena (Shinde) leading in 28 seats, out of 227 wards of the BMC. The Shiv Sena (UBT) alliance has managed to cross the 85 mark, with Raj Thackrey-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) only leading in 9, and Uddhav Thackery's UBT Sena leading in 76, and NCP (SP) with zero seats. Similarly, Ajit Pawar's NCP is also leading in 0 seats, while the Congress party continued to have a dismal performance with leads in only 11 seats. The similar trends followed in other Municipal corporations, the BJP dominates the trends emerging across the state in 28 other municipal corporations, emerging as the leading party in Nagpur, Pune, Thane, Nashik, and Shambhajinagar Municipal Corporations. The 2026 Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) election, held on 15 January 2026, marked the first civic poll in Mumbai in nearly nine years, following repeated delays due to legal, administrative and ward-boundary disputes since the previous 2017 election. Also Read: Snowfall starts in Gulmarg, Sonamarg, other higher reaches of Kashmir Valley In a notable political development ahead of the polls, estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray announced a pre-poll alliance, bringing together the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) after almost two decades of rivalry, in an effort to consolidate Marathi votes and challenge the dominant BJP-Shiv Sena (Shinde) Mahayuti alliance in India’s richest civic body. This reunion of the Thackeray brothers’ factions generated significant attention as it symbolised a historic political overture in Maharashtra, even as major parties and alliances contested vigorously across Mumbai’s 227 wards.

The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, surpassed its previous top mark of 82 seats in 2017, with winning or leading on 90 seats, while Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena (Shinde) leading in 28 seats, out of 227 wards of the BMC.

BJP takes all in Maharashtra civic body polls; Mahayuti alliance dethrones Thackeray family from BMC

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin called Pongal a symbol of "secular Dravidian identity," urging DMK cadres to celebrate it as a harvest festival free from religious rituals. This sparked a fierce political row with BJP and AIADMK accusing the DMK of diluting the festival's Hindu traditions ahead of 2026 Assembly elections.


Stalin's 'Secular Dravidian Pongal' Ignites BJP Fury

Buoyed by Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) successes in recent municipal elections, Union Home Minister on Sunday (Jan 11) said the ultimate goal for the BJP in Kerala is to form a government under the lotus symbol. Addressing a gathering of local body representatives, he described the recent victory in the Thiruvananthapuram local polls as a significant step towards the party's ascent in the state.&nbsp;"This victory is not our goal, but a stepping stone towards achieving our goal. Our ultimate goal is to form a government in Kerala under the lotus symbol and bring a BJP Chief Minister. Our goal is to make Kerala fully developed and to protect Kerala from anti-national forces, to protect the power of faith that has existed in Kerala for centuries," Shah said.&nbsp;The home minister highlighted the BJP's ascent in Kerala with steadily increasing its vote share and victory in recent local body elections.&nbsp;"The people of Kerala are giving their support to the BJP, and our support is growing. In 2014, we received 11% of the vote; in 2019, 16%; and in 2024, 20%. Now, the journey from 20% to 30% and 40% won't be that long, and we will prove this in 2026. We have already achieved this across the country, but now it's Kerala's turn. This time, a BJP Chief Minister will definitely be elected in Kerala. This change in Kerala is not limited to the cities alone."&nbsp;Launching a scathing attack on existing coalitions in the state's politics, Shah said "match-fixing" between the CPI(M)-led LDF and Congress-led UDF stalled Kerala's progress.&nbsp;He further criticised both the coalition for following the remittance-based growth Model for Kerala and pointed out that the BJP and NDA transformed states where they are in power.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-bmc-poll-manifesto-bjp-led-mahayuti-promises-ai-to-track-bangladeshi-rohingya-migrants-1768130229940">In BMC poll manifesto, BJP-led Mahayuti promises AI to track Bangladeshi, Rohingya migrants</a>&nbsp;"Kerala's development should be balanced. The LDF and UDF governments in Kerala are content with the money sent by Keralites working abroad. While I appreciate Keralites working abroad, I want to ask the LDF and UDF whether it is the responsibility of the Kerala government to care for those families whose members don't send money from abroad. Whose responsibility is it to bring about improvements for those millions of people?" Shah said.&nbsp;Last month, the BJP-led NDA created history in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation by wresting control of the civic body and ending the LDF’s four-decade rule. Of the 101 wards in the corporation, the NDA won 50 seats, while the LDF secured 29, the Congress-led UDF 19, and two seats went to independent candidates.&nbsp;The BJP’s breakthrough came as a surprise to both the Left parties and the Congress-led UDF, with the NDA steadily expanding its vote share and emerging as a strong third front in the state. Last year, BJP leader Suresh Gopi won the Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency.&nbsp;

Amit Shah said the BJP’s support in Kerala is steadily increasing, and the party’s journey from 20% to 30% and then 40% vote share “won’t take long.”

Buoyed by Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) successes in recent municipal elections, Union Home Minister on Sunday (Jan 11) said the ultimate goal for the BJP in Kerala is to form a government under the lotus symbol. Addressing a gathering of local body representatives, he described the recent victory in the Thiruvananthapuram local polls as a significant step towards the party's ascent in the state. "This victory is not our goal, but a stepping stone towards achieving our goal. Our ultimate goal is to form a government in Kerala under the lotus symbol and bring a BJP Chief Minister. Our goal is to make Kerala fully developed and to protect Kerala from anti-national forces, to protect the power of faith that has existed in Kerala for centuries," Shah said. The home minister highlighted the BJP's ascent in Kerala with steadily increasing its vote share and victory in recent local body elections. "The people of Kerala are giving their support to the BJP, and our support is growing. In 2014, we received 11% of the vote; in 2019, 16%; and in 2024, 20%. Now, the journey from 20% to 30% and 40% won't be that long, and we will prove this in 2026. We have already achieved this across the country, but now it's Kerala's turn. This time, a BJP Chief Minister will definitely be elected in Kerala. This change in Kerala is not limited to the cities alone." Launching a scathing attack on existing coalitions in the state's politics, Shah said "match-fixing" between the CPI(M)-led LDF and Congress-led UDF stalled Kerala's progress. He further criticised both the coalition for following the remittance-based growth Model for Kerala and pointed out that the BJP and NDA transformed states where they are in power. Also Read: In BMC poll manifesto, BJP-led Mahayuti promises AI to track Bangladeshi, Rohingya migrants "Kerala's development should be balanced. The LDF and UDF governments in Kerala are content with the money sent by Keralites working abroad. While I appreciate Keralites working abroad, I want to ask the LDF and UDF whether it is the responsibility of the Kerala government to care for those families whose members don't send money from abroad. Whose responsibility is it to bring about improvements for those millions of people?" Shah said. Last month, the BJP-led NDA created history in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation by wresting control of the civic body and ending the LDF’s four-decade rule. Of the 101 wards in the corporation, the NDA won 50 seats, while the LDF secured 29, the Congress-led UDF 19, and two seats went to independent candidates. The BJP’s breakthrough came as a surprise to both the Left parties and the Congress-led UDF, with the NDA steadily expanding its vote share and emerging as a strong third front in the state. Last year, BJP leader Suresh Gopi won the Thrissur Lok Sabha constituency.

Amit Shah said the BJP’s support in Kerala is steadily increasing, and the party’s journey from 20% to 30% and then 40% vote share “won’t take long.”

‘Ultimate goal is to form government under lotus symbol in Kerala’: Amit Shah

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has once again stirred political discussion in Telangana by announcing that it would rename Nizamabad district as Indur if it forms the government in the state. Nizamabad MP Dharmapuri Arvind recently said the party intends to change the district’s name, asserting that names linked to the Nizam period represent a painful chapter in history. Speaking to party workers, Arvind argued that such names are reminders of oppression and suffering and should be replaced with ones that reflect cultural pride and a nationalist identity. Backing the statement, Telangana BJP State President Ramchander Rao, speaking to ANI, said the party stands firmly with its Nizamabad MP. "Our Nizamabad MP has given a statement that if the BJP comes to power, we will change the name of Nizamabad to Indur. The BJP is with him," Rao said. Rao added that the proposal is not limited to Nizamabad alone. He said several places across Telangana continue to carry names given during the Nizam rule, which he alleged was marked by atrocities. "These names remind us of that period. That is the reason they need to be changed. Not only Nizamabad, but there are also many cities in Telangana whose names have to be changed," he said. The statements drew sharp criticism from Congress. Former MP and senior Congress leader Hanumanth Rao, speaking to ANI, accused Dharmapuri Arvind of unnecessarily creating new issues and attempting to divide the country. He said Nizamabad had different names in the distant past and that several governments had come to power since Independence, but none had changed the city's name. Hanumanth Rao alleged that the BJP was deliberately creating controversy by announcing name changes even before coming to power. "At the time of Independence, people from all religions, castes, and creeds fought together for the nation," he said, adding that India is a secular country and cannot be turned into a Hindu nation. Warning that such statements could lead to law-and-order problems, Rao urged the Telangana government to take note of the issue. He cautioned that similar demands could follow, including calls to rename landmarks such as Charminar or Osmania University. "It is not correct to create unnecessary issues like this," he said. Accusing the BJP of using identity-based politics for electoral gains, Rao said India is home to diverse cultures and religions. He further claimed that while Narendra Modi is Prime Minister, real control lies with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, and asserted that India's secular character cannot be changed. From Hyderabad to Bhagyanagar, and now from Nizamabad to Indur, the BJP's renewed push to rename cities has once again stirred intense political debate across Telangana.

Rao added that the proposal is not limited to Nizamabad alone. He said several places across Telangana continue to carry names given during the Nizam rule, which he alleged was marked by atrocities. 

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has once again stirred political discussion in Telangana by announcing that it would rename Nizamabad district as Indur if it forms the government in the state. Nizamabad MP Dharmapuri Arvind recently said the party intends to change the district’s name, asserting that names linked to the Nizam period represent a painful chapter in history. Speaking to party workers, Arvind argued that such names are reminders of oppression and suffering and should be replaced with ones that reflect cultural pride and a nationalist identity. Backing the statement, Telangana BJP State President Ramchander Rao, speaking to ANI, said the party stands firmly with its Nizamabad MP. "Our Nizamabad MP has given a statement that if the BJP comes to power, we will change the name of Nizamabad to Indur. The BJP is with him," Rao said. Rao added that the proposal is not limited to Nizamabad alone. He said several places across Telangana continue to carry names given during the Nizam rule, which he alleged was marked by atrocities. "These names remind us of that period. That is the reason they need to be changed. Not only Nizamabad, but there are also many cities in Telangana whose names have to be changed," he said. The statements drew sharp criticism from Congress. Former MP and senior Congress leader Hanumanth Rao, speaking to ANI, accused Dharmapuri Arvind of unnecessarily creating new issues and attempting to divide the country. He said Nizamabad had different names in the distant past and that several governments had come to power since Independence, but none had changed the city's name. Hanumanth Rao alleged that the BJP was deliberately creating controversy by announcing name changes even before coming to power. "At the time of Independence, people from all religions, castes, and creeds fought together for the nation," he said, adding that India is a secular country and cannot be turned into a Hindu nation. Warning that such statements could lead to law-and-order problems, Rao urged the Telangana government to take note of the issue. He cautioned that similar demands could follow, including calls to rename landmarks such as Charminar or Osmania University. "It is not correct to create unnecessary issues like this," he said. Accusing the BJP of using identity-based politics for electoral gains, Rao said India is home to diverse cultures and religions. He further claimed that while Narendra Modi is Prime Minister, real control lies with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, and asserted that India's secular character cannot be changed. From Hyderabad to Bhagyanagar, and now from Nizamabad to Indur, the BJP's renewed push to rename cities has once again stirred intense political debate across Telangana.

The statements drew sharp criticism from Congress. Former MP and senior Congress leader Hanumanth Rao, speaking to ANI, accused Dharmapuri Arvind of unnecessarily creating new issues and attempting to divide the country.

BJP wants Nizamabad to be named as Indur

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