2004 LOK SABHA POLLS
Govt plans special session of Parliament to pass women's quota amendment bill, confident of 15-18 vote margin
The government intends to call a special session of Parliament for passing a Constitution amendment bill. This proposed amendment aims to introduce 33 percent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies. The Lok Sabha's strength may increase from 543 to a maximum of 850 seats through delimitation. The government seeks to finalize details around seat ratios based on the 1971 Census.
UP Polls: Asaduddin Owaisi, Chandrashekhar Azad launch Samajik Parivartan Morcha to take on BJP; Azad named CM face
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and Azad Samaj Party president Chandrashekhar Azad have formed the Samajik Parivartan Morcha. This alliance aims to unite marginalized communities and counter the BJP's dominance in Uttar Pradesh. Azad has been declared the chief ministerial candidate for this newly formed front. The alliance plans to contest over 200 assembly seats by focusing on Dalit and Muslim voter demographics.
Akhilesh Yadav accuses Adityanath of insulting Lord Krishna, says BJP will lose UP polls in 2027
Akhilesh Yadav has criticised Yogi Adityanath for his remarks regarding cowherds during a recent event. Yadav claimed that such comments disrespect the deity Krishna and reflect Adityanath's political weakness ahead of future elections. He also suggested that the BJP's communications indicate increasing anxiety about potential electoral defeats. Furthermore, Yadav noted that ongoing tensions between the BJP and Samajwadi Party may influence voter sentiment.
UP's MLC ministers may contest Assembly polls as BJP plans major reshuffle
BJP is strategizing to field notable ministers from the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council for upcoming assembly elections. The party is considering replacing over 30% of sitting MLAs to refresh its candidate list. Prominent figures such as Keshav Prasad Maurya, Swatantra Dev Singh, and others are under consideration. Aiming for regional representation, the party is also evaluating former MPs who lost in the recent Lok Sabha elections.
Defer Ladakh civic polls: MP Mohmad Haneefa in letter to Amit Shah
In a significant move, Ladakh's Lok Sabha member Mohmad Haneefa has requested Union home minister Amit Shah to postpone the upcoming Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council elections due to winter challenges and potential low voter turnout. The plea highlights concerns over democratic participation in the region amidst ongoing tensions and calls for protests from local groups.
Chandrashekhar Azad, Owaisi explore third front to take on BJP, SP in UP elections
Chandrashekhar Azad's Azad Samaj Party and Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM are forming an electoral alliance ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. This partnership aims to unite Dalit and Muslim voters by contesting over 200 constituencies. Azad's party plans to field candidates in approximately 150 seats, while AIMIM may contest 40-50 seats.
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'My heart was in my mouth, I was trembling when I called Karunanidhi': Sonia Gandhi on how UPA was formed
Sonia Gandhi details her efforts to create an inclusive United Progressive Alliance in 2004 against the BJP. She faced challenges, particularly in cooperating with the DMK due to past conflicts. Gandhi recounts initial meetings with various leaders to secure alliances, including one with M. Karunanidhi. The formal alliance was established on May 4, 2004, leading to a successful election outcome.
Ground has shifted under Modi govt's feet, regime not here to stay: Sonia Gandhi
Sonia Gandhi reflects on her life and conveys her belief in the youth's desire for justice and fairness. She critiques the Modi government's insecurities and asserts that it is not here to stay. The memoir discusses the resilience of democracy in India amidst rising authoritarianism. Gandhi notes the importance of the opposition’s INDIA alliance in challenging the BJP’s dominance.
BJP’s Sudhanshu Trivedi takes dig at Sonia Gandhi: “Gave up PM post, became Super PM"
BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi has revived questions about Sonia Gandhi's influence during the UPA government, alleging that she functioned as a 'Super PM' after declining the top post in 2004. He cited her Cabinet Minister-ranked position as National Advisory Council chairperson, while Gandhi's memoir revisits why she chose Manmohan Singh to lead the government.
Ladakh's Kargil region may witness 'complete shutdown' today
Civil society organizations in Kargil have called for a complete shutdown on November 10. They demand the postponement of elections for the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council. Concerns arise that elections may take place during the winter migration period. Political parties and various groups have shown their support for this shutdown. A candlelight march will further emphasize their demand for democratic representation in the region.
Akhilesh Yadav demands Aadhaar-linked voting, with metal cards replacing PVC and paper to avoid poll rigging
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has called for linking Aadhaar cards with voting and introducing fingerprint or iris-based biometric identification ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. He also proposed tamper-proof metal voter ID cards to prevent electoral fraud. His remarks come amid Opposition parties' protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Parliament's Monsoon session remains unprorogued for record 88 days
Parliament's Monsoon session has not been prorogued for 88 days, exceeding the previous record of 87 days. This situation raises the possibility of convening Parliament for discussions, especially regarding the Women's Reservation Bill. The government keeps options open for an extended session, which requires just two days' notice. In contrast, initiating a new session would necessitate a minimum of 14 days' notice.
Amit Shah to inaugurate, lay foundation stones for projects worth Rs 1,024 crore in Gujarat
Key projects being unveiled include a major flyover on the busy Sarkhej-Gandhinagar (SG) Highway, the Jodhpur Knowledge Hub, and an Urban Health Centre in Gota, along with housing allotment initiatives for Economically Weaker Section (EWS) beneficiaries.
"Don't be afraid": Rahul Gandhi reiterates open debate call; says Amit Shah should 'not confuse' PM Modi
Rahul Gandhi has renewed his challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an open debate, asking Amit Shah to convince the PM to accept it rather than confuse him. The exchange follows Shah's invitation to discuss the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Parliament, intensifying the BJP-Opposition confrontation.
Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi resigns from Lok Sabha and National Conference amid party disagreements
Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, the MP from Srinagar, recently resigned from his position in Lok Sabha and the National Conference. His resignation was accepted, effective November 3, 2026, amid rising tensions with party leadership. Mehdi publicly criticised Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and NC president Farooq Abdullah during a memorial event for his father. Following his comments, party members accused him of betrayal and failure in his duties.
Election Commission announces Special Summary Revision of electoral rolls for multiple states
The Election Commission has launched the annual Special Summary Revision for multiple states and union territories. This initiative aims to enroll eligible citizens as of October 1, 2026, and prospective electors by January 1, 2027. Key dates for qualifying electors include April 1, July 1, and October 1 in 2027. Draft electoral rolls will be published on November 30, while the final version will be available by January 21, 2027.
Punjab: Rahul Gandhi targets CM Bhagwant Mann over 'Nasha', says AAP govt run from Delhi
Rahul Gandhi launched the Congress campaign in Sangrur, criticizing Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's handling of addiction issues. He claimed that Mann's alleged alcohol use undermines efforts to combat substance abuse in Punjab. Gandhi accused AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal of controlling the Punjab government from Delhi, asserting that the state needs local leadership. He also challenged Union Home Minister Amit Shah's promises regarding drug eradication by 2029.
'Mann smelled of alcohol in Parliament by 11 am', Rahul Gandhi launches all-out attack on AAP at Sangrur rally
Rahul Gandhi launched a campaign rally in Sangrur where he criticised Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Aam Aadmi Party for failing to address drug issues. He recalled earlier discussions about Punjab's drug crisis and asserted that AAP made promises but has not delivered results. Gandhi also expressed his disdain for BJP's tactics in Parliament, challenging Prime Minister Modi to debate openly on national issues.
'You became MP in 2024, so will you resign?': Ravi Shankar Prasad to Rahul Gandhi
Ravi Shankar Prasad criticised Rahul Gandhi during a BJP conclave regarding the alleged electoral irregularities. He questioned whether Gandhi and his party members would resign following these claims. Prasad emphasised that the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh should also consider resignation if he persisted with these accusations. The conclave aimed to address the anti-Sikh riots and the struggles faced by victims and survivors.
Rahul Gandhi vs Narendra Modi debate: RaGa asks public if they want open face-off; urges Nitin Gadkari, Yogi Adityanath & other BJP leaders to convince PM
Rahul Gandhi has renewed his challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an open debate, asking people on X whether they want to see the two leaders face off. He also urged senior BJP leaders, including Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari, to convince Modi to accept the challenge. The demand follows the Prime Minister's criticism of the Opposition and his remarks about alleged foreign links.
Aga Ruhullah resigns from NC, hints at launching new political outfit in J-K
Syed Aga Ruhullah Mehdi announced his resignation from the National Conference at a rally in Budgam. He criticized party leadership for not fulfilling election promises regarding Article 370 and other issues. Ruhullah indicated plans to form a new political entity aimed at restoring rights for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed disappointment over supporting the NC during the last Assembly elections.
Justin Timberlake’s reported Apple TV docuseries revisits 2004 Super Bowl scandal: What happened to Janet Jackson after the wardrobe malfunction?
Justin Timberlake's new Apple TV docuseries will premiere in May 2026 and explore the 2004 Super Bowl incident. This four-part series, directed by Fisher Stevens, may include Janet Jackson's perspective on the controversy. Timberlake faced public scrutiny following the exposure incident during the halftime show and subsequently apologized to both Jackson and Britney Spears.
Rahul Gandhi being used by foreign powers to destabilise India: Nitin Nabin
Nitin Nabin criticized opposition parties during a rally in Bhagalpur as part of the BJP's campaign. He accused Rahul Gandhi of being manipulated by foreign powers to incite anarchy in India. Nabin stated that opposition parties struggled to present complaints during the electoral process due to insufficient grassroots support. He pointed out that past elections demonstrated voters rejecting the Congress-led UPA due to various issues.
CEC Gyanesh Kumar will have to quit and go to jail: Rahul Gandhi
Rahul Gandhi accused Narendra Modi of coming to power through unlawful means during a recent rally in Delhi. The opposition leaders, including Akhilesh Yadav and Mamata Banerjee, called for unity against the ruling government. They stressed the need for legal action against electoral malpractice while advocating for the rights of farmers and students. The leaders alleged that the 2024 elections would be illegal due to voter deletions.
West Bengal announces government jobs for families of political violence victims dating back to 2001
The West Bengal government has introduced a scheme offering Group D government jobs to one eligible family member of people killed in political violence in the state since January 1, 2001. The initiative covers spouses, children and, in cases involving unmarried victims, siblings, subject to eligibility conditions.
Ravi Shankar Prasad claims Nehru became PM through 'vote chori'
"What kind of mock parliament is this, in which only the opposition is present, and the ruling party is absent? While its (INDIA bloc's) leaders disrupt parliamentary proceedings in the House, the party is mocking parliament and the people of the country by staging such an exercise," Prasad told reporters at the Bihar BJP headquarters in Patna.
Kiren Rijiju challenges Congress with 5 questions on SIR, electoral processes
Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has accused the Congress party of undermining democracy in India. He posed five questions to the party regarding their electoral performance and the Special Intensive Revision exercise. Rijiju questioned Congress's criticism of the exercise while emphasizing the importance of electoral integrity. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi announced a march in Delhi ahead of the INDIA bloc's mega rally at Ramlila Maidan.
Economists appear before Parliamentary panel on simultaneous polls
BJP MP P P Chaudhary, Chairman of the Joint Committee on the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, said the economists included S Gurumurthy and Shamika Ravi, among others.
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