Category: POLITICS

New Delhi, December 22:
BJP leader Naina Lal Kidwai on Monday expressed confidence that voters will deliver the right verdict in the upcoming elections scheduled for April, underlining the party’s optimism about its electoral prospects.

Speaking to reporters, Kidwai said that the party remains committed to addressing public concerns and implementing policies aimed at development and governance. She added that the people’s trust in the party’s vision will be reflected in their voting decisions.

Political analysts noted that such statements are part of the BJP’s efforts to boost morale among party workers and supporters ahead of the elections. They said these remarks also signal the party’s intent to maintain visibility and engagement with the electorate in the months leading up to voting.

Kidwai further emphasised the importance of democratic processes and encouraged citizens to exercise their voting rights responsibly, while highlighting the party’s initiatives across various sectors aimed at public welfare.

New Delhi, December 22:
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Monday said that the Mahayuti alliance has achieved significant success in recent elections, highlighting the coalition’s growing political presence and impact in various states.

Speaking to the media, Athawale praised the coordination among alliance partners and said their combined efforts have strengthened voter outreach and policy advocacy. He emphasised that Mahayuti’s success reflects the trust placed by citizens in the coalition’s vision and governance approach.

Political analysts noted that Athawale’s remarks underline the alliance’s confidence ahead of upcoming electoral contests. They said such statements are aimed at consolidating partner support and energising the voter base.

Athawale also urged Mahayuti partners to continue working cohesively, focus on public welfare initiatives, and strengthen grassroots engagement to maintain momentum in future elections.

New Delhi, December 22:
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) received Rs 6,654 crore in donations during the financial year 2024–25, registering a massive lead over other national political parties, according to data submitted to the Election Commission of India. In contrast, the Congress party witnessed a sharp decline in its donation income during the same period.

The figures indicate that the BJP continued to dominate political funding, with a significant portion of contributions coming through electoral bonds and other declared sources. Analysts noted that the party’s strong organisational network, electoral performance and donor confidence contributed to the surge in funding.

Meanwhile, the Congress party’s reduced donation inflow has raised questions about its fundraising mechanisms and financial outreach. Political observers said the widening gap in party finances could have implications for campaign capacity, organisational strength and electoral preparedness ahead of upcoming elections.

New Delhi, December 20:
Congress le+ Saturday criticised the central government, alleging that it is avoiding discussions on rising pollution levels across India. He accused the authorities of not taking adequate steps to address air quality concerns and said the government “doesn’t even want to listen” to experts and opposition suggestions.

Bhagat highlighted the increasing incidence of respiratory illnesses and environmental degradation as a result of poor air quality. He urged the government to engage in constructive dialogue and implement effective measures to curb pollution in urban and industrial areas.

The leader stressed that addressing pollution requires collaborative efforts between the central and state governments, experts, and civil society. Bhagat’s remarks come amid rising public concern over deteriorating air quality in major cities and regions of the country

Kolkata, December 20:
A BJP leader on Saturday stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to West Bengal was centered on development initiatives and not linked to upcoming elections. The leader emphasised that the visit aimed to review ongoing projects and boost infrastructure, education, and public welfare schemes in the state.

The BJP leader added that the Prime Minister’s engagement with local officials and communities highlighted the government’s focus on progress and citizen welfare, rather than political campaigning. Officials accompanying PM Modi underscored several developmental milestones achieved in recent months.

The remarks come amid speculation about political implications, which party representatives dismissed, reiterating that the visit was strictly for governance-related activities. Analysts noted that development-centric visits often serve to showcase government initiatives, irrespective of electoral timelines.

Srinagar, December 20:
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister on Saturday met Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil to request the early release of central funds for ongoing water and irrigation projects in the Union Territory. The CM emphasised the need for timely financial support to ensure smooth execution of development initiatives.

Officials said the meeting focused on accelerating key water resource management projects, improving irrigation infrastructure, and addressing water scarcity issues in rural and urban areas. Both leaders discussed strategies to enhance efficiency and expedite project completion.

The Union Minister assured that the central government will consider the requests and facilitate the release of funds to support J&K’s development priorities. Officials highlighted that timely financial allocation is critical for the successful implementation of ongoing and planned schemes.

Hyderabad, December 20:
BRS and BJP leaders on Saturday criticised the Congress party following the results of the Telangana Panchayat elections, accusing it of failing to connect with grassroots voters. Leaders from both parties alleged irregularities and questioned Congress’s claims of success in certain areas.

BRS working president KTR (K. T. Rama Rao) also took a dig at Congress leader Revanth Reddy, daring him to address criticisms regarding party performance and administrative lapses. KTR emphasised that governance and delivery of public services remain the top priority over political rhetoric.

The BJP echoed similar concerns, highlighting that Congress has been unable to deliver at the local level despite contesting aggressively. Analysts noted that the Panchayat results reflect changing voter sentiments and underline the importance of strong regional leadership.

Officials said all parties are expected to review performance, strengthen organisational strategies, and prepare for upcoming local and state-level elections in Telangana.

Kolkata, December 20:
A First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against BJP leader Amit Malviya in West Bengal on Saturday over alleged incendiary remarks, officials said. The FIR comes amid rising political tensions in the state ahead of upcoming elections.

Authorities stated that the complaint alleges Malviya’s statements could incite unrest and disturb public order. Law enforcement has begun an investigation to ascertain the context and implications of the remarks.

Political circles reacted to the FIR, with BJP leaders condemning the move as politically motivated, while opposition parties highlighted the need for accountability and adherence to law. Officials emphasised that the probe will follow due legal process.

New Delhi, December 20:
A Muslim woman doctor, who was a classmate of Nitis, spoke out on Saturday regarding a recent incident involving him, stating that “what happened was wrong” and emphasising the need for accountability. She expressed concern over the impact of the incident on both students and the broader community.

The doctor highlighted that such incidents affect trust and the learning environment in educational institutions. She urged authorities to take necessary action to ensure safety, fairness, and justice for all students involved.

Experts and community leaders have echoed the call for transparency and stricter measures to prevent similar incidents. The statement has drawn public attention and reignited discussions on ethical conduct and student safety in academic settings.

Agartala, December 20:
Tripura Chief Minister on Saturday said the state government aims to make the Tripura Film and Television Institute (TFTI) the best film institute in Northeast India. The CM highlighted efforts to enhance infrastructure, curriculum, and training facilities to attract aspiring filmmakers from the region.

Officials said the government is focusing on modernising equipment, introducing advanced courses, and collaborating with industry experts to improve the quality of education at TFTI. The initiative is part of a broader plan to promote creative arts and cultural development in the state.

The CM emphasised that elevating TFTI’s standards would provide students with better opportunities in the national and international film industry. Authorities also highlighted scholarships and talent support programs to encourage participation from diverse backgrounds.