DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS
India’s ‘dear friend’ is back in power in Brazil, and a $30 billion trade opportunity is on the table
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Brazilian President-elect Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his re-election, pledging to deepen the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership. Bilateral trade rose 25% to $15.21 billion in 2025, with Lula setting a target of $30 billion.
Rehearsing for Utopia
The Kochi-Muziris Biennale promotes public engagement through art workshops, student exhibitions and community initiatives. However, questions remain about whether people have a genuine say in its governance. Drawing comparisons with the Venice Biennale, curator Premjish Achari argues that art festivals must embrace transparency, shared decision-making and greater public participation.
Serbian Elections: How a student protest born after a railway station canopy collapse ended right-wing Aleksandar Vučić’s 12-year grip on power
Serbia’s student-led movement has emerged victorious in the October 25, 2026, parliamentary election, dealing a major blow to Aleksandar Vučić’s 14-year political dominance. The movement began after a railway station canopy collapsed in Novi Sad in November 2024, killing 16 people. Demands for accountability grew into nationwide anti-corruption protests before the students entered electoral politics. Vučić conceded defeat based on preliminary estimates, although official results were still awaited.
West Virginia midterm elections 2026: Early voting locations, deadlines and poll worker registration
In West Virginia, voters can easily find information on both early voting and absentee ballot options. Those who are eligible may apply to serve as poll workers via the state's official website. Before casting their votes, individuals should verify current ID requirements. Remember, the deadline for in-person early voting is October 31, 2026.
AI ad blitz distorts US midterms 2026
AI-generated political advertisements are becoming more prevalent as the November elections approach, raising concerns among voters. Researchers have identified over 220 ads made partly with AI, primarily sponsored by Republican groups, costing over $137 million. Only a small percentage of these advertisements carry disclaimers stating they were created with AI technology. Many voters express their disapproval of AI-generated content in political campaigns during recent surveys.
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Amit Shah to join 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' padyatra in Karnal on November 5; Haryana BJP President confirms
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will partake in a foot march in Karnal on November 5. This initiative is part of the Bharatiya Janata Party's campaign to raise awareness about electoral processes and voter lists. The campaign will include public outreach programs and foot marches across various districts. Preparation for the event involves collaboration between party officials and supporters at the local level.
Indian diaspora holds 'Bharat First' gathering in Munich, calls for respect of democratic mandate
The gathering on Saturday brought together Indian professionals, students and families from across Germany. Participants called for respect for the mandate of 1.4 billion Indians and the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Fed expected to hold rates steady days ahead of US midterms
The US Federal Reserve appears set to hold interest rates steady at its meeting next week, analysts say, despite stubbornly high inflation and with markets pricing in at least one rate hike before year-end. The Fed has missed its long-term two-percent target for inflation for more than five years, and at its last meeting in September the FOMC voted to raise the key federal funds rate for the first time in three years, lifting the target range to 3.75 percent to 4.0 percent.
Neha Bora gets till Oct 29 to respond to Rs 10,000 peace bond notice
Neha Bora, the president of AISA, appeared before a magistrate after a police notice was issued. She faces a Rs 10,000 peace bond for alleged likelihood of public disturbance during recent protests. Bora questioned the legitimacy of these preventive measures citing her constitutional rights. The Delhi High Court ordered that she must receive all relevant materials before responding.
Naseeruddin Shah, filmmaker Payal Kapadia stand in solidarity with agitating SRFTI students
Naseeruddin Shah and filmmaker Payal Kapadia expressed support for Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute students. The students have been protesting against violence allegedly perpetrated by RSS-affiliated organizations on campus. Shah criticized the ruling BJP in West Bengal, claiming they are targeting dissenters. Kapadia emphasized the need for action against those responsible while urging for student safety. SRFTI students demand accountability from the administration regarding campus security and rights.
Kamala Harris returns to campaign trail ahead of US midterms, leaves 2028 presidential bid undecided
Kamala Harris has returned to the campaign trail to support Democrats in important midterm contests. Her appearances span key states like Georgia, Mississippi, and Nevada ahead of the elections. Speculation about her potential 2028 presidential run increases as she rallies support for candidates. Harris emphasizes the significance of the upcoming elections over future political ambitions.
Thousands march against SIR, demand CEC's resignation; over 100 detained
Thousands of protesters, including farmers and students, marched towards the Election Commission of India headquarters on Friday. Demonstrators expressed their concerns over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, which they believe could disenfranchise millions. Police detained over 100 protesters as they attempted to breach barricades near the ECI. Various organizations have planned demonstrations in multiple cities in response to these issues.
Elon Musk wants to merge SpaceX and Tesla: Here's what to know
Elon Musk said this week that SpaceX and Tesla have formed special committees to study a merger of his two biggest companies. Musk cautioned that a merger is not certain.
India, Poland push for stronger trade and defence ties
India and Poland are strengthening their collaboration in various sectors, particularly defence and space. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Polish counterpart Donald Tusk discussed trade enhancement and global governance reforms. Both leaders expressed concern over the ongoing war in Ukraine and its humanitarian impact. They emphasized the importance of a comprehensive peace in line with international law. Tusk reiterated Poland's support for India's position in global forums like the UN.
Trump's midterm alarm bells are ringing: Five new polls hold clues
National polling ahead of the US midterm elections indicates a Democratic lead over Republicans in congressional races. Various surveys show that dissatisfaction with the current administration is affecting voter preferences. President Trump is experiencing low approval ratings, particularly regarding his economic management. Economic concerns, particularly rising gas prices, are influencing voter sentiment as the elections approach.
BRICS Parliamentary Forum to be held in Delhi on October 26-27, says Om Birla
The 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum is scheduled to occur in New Delhi on October 26-27, focusing on people-centric development. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be present to engage with delegates from member countries. The forum will include discussions on various topics like ethical artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and global governance reforms. India has initiated efforts to establish Parliamentary Friendship Groups with 64 countries for enhanced cooperation.
Deportations climb under Trump but fall short of White House target, a new report finds
President Donald Trump's administration is on track to deport around 660,000 individuals over the past year. This figure reflects a 26% increase from the average during President Joe Biden's administration. Voluntary departures have risen to an all-time high, with many migrants opting to leave rather than face detention. The Department of Homeland Security reported that 39% of deportations now occur from within the country.
Akhilesh Yadav accuses BJP of pressuring officials to influence UP MLC polls
Akhilesh Yadav has alleged that the BJP is engaging in illegal activities to secure victories in upcoming elections. He claims that BJP members are pressuring officials and educational institutions to sway election outcomes. Yadav warns that those involved in these alleged crimes will face legal repercussions, including potential jail time. He emphasizes that no one will escape accountability for their actions during this electoral process.
Real 'disservice', says Annamalai on Delhi Police' crackdown on CJP, backs its right to question
K Annamalai has criticised the actions of the Delhi Police against members of the CJP organisation. He expressed his support for the democratic right to raise critical questions despite disagreeing with their tactics. Annamalai emphasised that heavy-handed police measures could politically backfire, potentially making leaders more popular. He believes that the government should focus on effectively addressing public questions instead of resorting to arrests.
Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Kargil chief to seek dissolution, likely to join BJP
Akhoon, an NC leader, rebelled against the party earlier this year when he refused to step down as chief executive councillor after completing two and a half years in favour of the alliance partner Congress, as per a power-sharing arrangement. This term of the LAHDC (Kargil) will end in October 2028.
Mehbooba Mufti urges Amit Shah to provide funding for J&K Prasar Bharati
Mufti requested dedicated funding for public broadcasters by allocating adequate, earmarked funds for local content production across Doordarshan and Akashvani Kendras in the Union Territory, with a specific focus on DD Kashmir. She also sought targeted initiatives and specialised financial assistance schemes by central cultural bodies such as the culture ministry and other associated institutions for the creative fraternity in the J&K.
'Spare India from anarchy': Indian-origin students, academicians condemn anti-EC protests
Over 400 Indian-origin students and researchers from 27 countries have condemned the opposition protests against the Election Commission. They argue that these protests undermine public confidence in constitutional institutions and threaten democratic processes. The signatories stated that democracy in India is resilient and has shown the ability to adapt and thrive. The joint statement emphasizes the importance of resolving differences through constitutional means rather than protests.
Congress, allies seeking Bangladesh-like regime change: Rajnath Singh
Union Minister Rajnath Singh accused the Congress and its allies of inciting unrest and seeking regime change. He stated that the youth are being exploited for political confrontation rather than constructive initiatives. Singh emphasized the importance of respecting democratic institutions and maintaining law and order. He urged political leaders to focus on dialogue and nation-building instead of destructive politics.
YS Jagan Mohan Reddy calls for a transparent process to appoint CEC
Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy called for a transparent and impartial process for the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC). He said the practice of the ruling party selecting the CEC must come to an end. He added that the selection process must include the Prime Minsiter, the Leader of Opposition and Chief Justice of India.
"Oppose, expose, depose": Jairam Ramesh invokes Pranab Mukherjee after Rajnath Singh's "regime change" charge
Jairam Ramesh responded to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, defending the opposition's role in democracy. Singh accused the Congress of inciting political unrest through youth-led protests against the Election Commission. Ramesh referenced former President Pranab Mukherjee's belief that the opposition's duty is to oppose, expose, and depose. The ongoing protests concern electoral reforms and the actions of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Sarbananda Sonowal calls Congress ‘seed of division’, hails Modi as architect of new India
Sarbananda Sonowal addressed a large gathering at the BJP's Jan Jagaran Rally in Dibrugarh. He asserted their commitment to India's unity, sovereignty, and security while criticizing the Congress party. Sonowal claimed the opposition spreads misinformation and undermines national progress, challenging their stance on the electoral rolls. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his vision of a developed India.
Constitution torn up, fighting to restore democracy in country, says Rahul Gandhi
Rahul Gandhi emphasized the INDIA bloc's singular mission to restore democracy during a meeting with opposition leaders. He criticized the government's attempts to restrict protests at Jantar Mantar and promised to fight against these restrictions. Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah of undermining democratic institutions and the Constitution. Kerala Minister Ramesh Chennithala supported Gandhi's claims and attacked the Chief Election Commissioner for damaging electoral processes.
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