LEGISLATION
20-year-old legislative privilege reference closed as infructuous
The reference arose from the Tamil Nadu assembly's November 7, 2003, resolution, sentencing journalists associated with The Hindu to 15 days' simple imprisonment for alleged breach of privilege and contempt following publication of articles and editorials critical of the then state government.
Bihar Legislative Council polls: 8 seats, 164 candidates; stage set for multi-cornered battle
The seats going to the polls are Patna, Darbhanga, Tirhut and Kosi Graduates' constituencies, along with Patna, Darbhanga, Tirhut and Saran Teachers' constituencies.
Tennessee Republicans push to explore new execution methods after failed Christa Pike execution
Tennessee's Republican leaders are considering alternative execution methods following the unsuccessful execution of Christa Pike. Governor Bill Lee has ordered an investigation into the state's death penalty practices, including execution procedures. Prominent officials, including Senator Marsha Blackburn and House Speaker Cameron Sexton, support reviewing execution methods. Possible alternatives could include electrocution or even the firing squad, which some states currently use.
A reckoning on social media addiction came late for many kids. Will AI safety be different?
When Meta agreed to changes to its social media platforms and enhanced safeguards in an $18 billion settlement, it made progress by "getting at what we've known for years" about the dangers, said Kristin Bride, a parent advocate who has fought for social media reform since the death of her teenage son. "How are we going to get at what we don't know is coming?"
Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez calls snap election after housing bill defeat
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced a snap election set for November 29 after parliament rejected proposed housing relief measures. Nationwide protests erupted, with thousands demanding urgent action on housing affordability amidst increasing costs. The proposed measures included automatic renewal of tenancy contracts, but were voted down by opposition parties. Sanchez aims to secure a broader progressive majority to address legislative challenges facing his minority government.
Frequent elections tilt spending away from capex, CEA tells JPC on simultaneous polls bills; economists back the idea
Gurumurthy has argued that frequent elections disrupt the federal structure and proposed simultaneous elections. Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran expressed support for the concept of "One Nation, One Election". He highlighted that this could enhance governance by minimizing time spent on campaigning. Several former Chief Justices have raised concerns about the powers proposed for the Election Commission of India.
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Industrial alcohol is the GST Council's unfinished federal business: States won the legal fight, but the 18% GST still applies
The GST Council is set to meet regarding the regulation of industrial alcohol, which has been contested between the government and states. The Supreme Court has ruled that states have the power to regulate industrial alcohol as it falls under their jurisdiction. Despite this, industrial alcohol remains categorized under the GST regime, attracting an 18% tax.
Top crypto group to pour millions into bipartisan slate of House races after key legislation stalls
Fairshake is stepping into the political arena with a bipartisan initiative aimed at supporting various House candidates in the forthcoming midterm elections. The organization is prepared to invest substantially in both Republican and Democratic candidates who align with its cryptocurrency agenda, with 32 beneficiaries already identified for their advocacy of critical legislation.
Anant Kumar Singh won't support Neeraj Kumar, but won't speak against him either: Rajiv Ranjan Singh
Union minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh has mediated a dispute between JD(U) MLA Anant Kumar Singh and MLC Neeraj Kumar. Singh has agreed not to publicly criticise Kumar, despite his grievances regarding past party actions. Lalan noted that Singh remains unwilling to support Kumar in the upcoming election. Neeraj Kumar filed his nomination for re-election amid ongoing tensions in the party.
Pedro Sánchez prepones elctions after legislative defeat amid Spain's housing crisis
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for early elections after his government experienced a legislative defeat regarding housing measures. The elections are scheduled to take place on November 29, in response to public protests over housing affordability. Sánchez’s governmental coalition has struggled with several smaller parties impacting legislative progress. The conservative Popular Party, which holds the most Parliament seats, is expected to challenge Sánchez in the elections.
Malaysia plans first AI law in 2027 as scrutiny intensifies
The government is drafting an AI Act that will take a “risk-based approach,” and is also working on mechanisms to enforce rules governing the technology, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said in parliament on Monday.
BJP names three candidates for Maharashtra MLC polls; media baron's wife on the ruling party list
The BJP has announced its candidates for various constituencies in the upcoming Maharashtra Legislative Council elections. Dr Smita Jadhav will contest from the Pune Division Graduates constituency, while Sudhakar Kohle is fielded from Nagpur. Additionally, Kaustubh Gawde represents the Pune Division Teachers constituency in the elections. These biennial elections will occur on October 23, with results expected on October 27.
Nagaland political map shifts again as five NPP MLAs join NPF
Five National People’s Party MLAs in Nagaland have formally merged with the Naga People’s Front, taking the NPF’s strength in the 60-member Assembly to 39. The merger, effective October 1, further consolidates the NPF’s dominance after it absorbed most NDPP legislators last year.
MLC polls: JD(U)'s Anant Singh raises eyebrows by accompanying Jan Suraaj candidate for nomination
JD(U) MLA Anant Kumar Singh revolted against his own party while accompanying Jan Suraaj Party candidate Anuj Singh during the filing of nomination papers for the Bihar legislative council elections. He made his intent to ensure the defeat of JD(U) MLC Neeraj Kumar, who is seeking re-election from the Patna Graduates constituency, supported the JSP nominee. The JDU national secretary said that the party president has been informed of the development and that appropriate measures will be taken.
Senate punts bill to permanently ban Chinese cars until after midterm elections
Legislation aiming to permanently prohibit Chinese vehicles and technology from entering the U.S. market is currently stalled. Senators are negotiating to address concerns raised by a Republican senator regarding foreign ownership stakes. The proposed bill seeks to protect American automakers from subsidized Chinese competition and prevent data privacy risks. Supporters of the bill anticipate revisiting this matter after the upcoming November elections.
Congress names Rammohan Reddy, Sarvottam Reddy as candidates for Telangana MLC poll
The Telangana Congress party has announced Sama Rammohan Reddy and R Sarvottam Reddy as candidates for upcoming elections. Rammohan Reddy will represent Mahabubnagar-Ranga Reddy-Hyderabad Graduates' constituency, having served the media department previously. Sarvottam Reddy is nominated for Nalgonda-Khammam-Warangal Graduates' constituency, following a background in farming and entrepreneurship. He is the son of late Congress leader R Damodar Reddy and has diverse educational experience.
AAP MLA Mehraj Malik marshalled out of J-K Assembly
Mehraj Malik, the AAP MLA from Doda, protested in the Legislative Assembly, claiming he was denied speaking time. He entered the well of the House during the Question Hour to voice his grievances. Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather ordered his removal as he continued to protest. Malik alleged that his security provisions were withdrawn and stated this placed him in danger.
BJP declares candidates for 10 UP, Bihar MLC seats
The BJP has announced four candidates for Bihar and six for Uttar Pradesh for the upcoming Legislative Council elections in the teachers and graduates constituencies. The party has retained some sitting MLCs and fielded former lawmakers and independents, including Sarvesh Kumar in Bihar and Dhruv Tripathi in Uttar Pradesh, as it finalised its candidates for the polls.
Kunal Kamra moves SC on issue concerning legislative privileges
Kunal Kamra has approached the Supreme Court to intervene in a significant case regarding legislative privileges and freedom of expression. The case is scheduled for hearing by a seven-judge Constitution bench on October 6. Kamra argues that legislative privileges can undermine the democratic right to free speech for all citizens, not just media personnel.
J&K Assembly passes statehood resolution amid BJP protests, walkout
The resolution was moved by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday last week and was passed on Monday after several legislators including from the ruling National Conference who spoke about the resolution and had brought amendments to include direct mention of Article 370, 35 (A), state flag, pre-1953 position and special status of J&K.
Senate passes 'Protect College Sports Act' that would rein in athlete payments and transfers
The Senate has passed a bipartisan bill that aims to regulate college sports and athlete payments. This legislation seeks to address the chaos in the industry caused by increased athlete payments and frequent transfers. New protections for student athletes are included, such as caps on agent fees and health insurance guarantees. Critics argue that the bill does not do enough to protect athletes or limit excessive spending.
US midterm elections 2026: How to vote and all details about the polling
US midterm elections 2026 are set for November 3. The voting guidelines and deadlines differs across states. Voters will decide all 435 U.S. House seats, 35 Senate seats and numerous statewide and legislative offices. Pennsylvania voters must register by October 19, while the deadline to request a mail-in or absentee ballot is October 27 at 5 p.m. The state also offers in-person and mail voting options.
US Green Card overhaul: Republican Senator Tuberville's new America First bill proposes merit-based system, ends diversity lottery
Senator Tommy Tuberville has introduced the Americans First Immigration Act to reform the immigration system. This bill proposes a merit-based immigration process and eliminates the Diversity Visa Lottery. Family-sponsored immigration would be limited to spouses and minor children under this new proposal. Employers would need to prioritize hiring American workers before considering foreign applicants.
Bill Gates joins calls for AI safeguards, including legislation
A sudden groundswell has risen in favor of federal intervention after OpenAI said in July that an autonomous AI agent went rogue during a security test and hacked into another company, subverting human control. Gates joined that chorus, saying that government must be involved.
US midterms 2026: How elections could reshape Trump’s power and control of Congress
The upcoming 2026 midterm elections are set for November 3 and will influence US President Trump's legislative agenda. All 435 House seats and 35 Senate seats will be contested, impacting congressional control. Republicans currently hold slim majorities and face challenges in retaining control. Economical concerns are central issues for voters, which may affect election outcomes. Trump's role in the elections remains significant despite not being on the ballot.
Lobbying intensifies ahead of Rajya Sabha, Legislative Council polls in UP
Intense behind-the-scenes maneuvering is heating up among political factions as they prepare for the Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections. Rajya Sabha voting is scheduled for October 16, followed by the Legislative Council on October 23. Both the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Samajwadi Party are set to hold meetings to confirm their candidates.
What are US midterm elections, and why do they matter?
US midterm elections take place halfway through a president’s four-year term, with all 435 House seats and roughly one-third of Senate seats contested. The 2026 elections will determine which party controls Congress, shaping President Donald Trump’s ability to advance legislation, while voters also elect governors, state legislators, mayors and other officials.
Legislative Council polls to 28 seats in four states on October 23: Election Commission
The Election Commission announced Legislative Council elections for 28 graduates' and teachers' constituencies across Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh on October 23. Under Article 171 of the Constitution, these special electoral colleges elect members (MLCs) to state Vidhan Parishads. The upcoming vacancies—occurring in November and December—comprise 11 seats in Uttar Pradesh, 8 in Bihar, 5 in Maharashtra, and 4 in Karnataka.
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