The Election Commission has frozen the original Trinamool Congress party name and its twin flower symbol ahead of the upcoming West Bengal by-polls following a split. The commission allotted temporary identities to both factions: Mamata Banerjee's camp received the name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress with the football player symbol, while the rebel faction was named Democratic Trinamool Congress with the envelope symbol. The rebel camp claimed the support of 64 out of 80 MLAs. Both sides traded charges, with the rebel faction criticising party functioning and Mamata's camp calling the decision undemocratic. Opposition allies condemned the move, while the BJP dismissed any involvement in the internal feud.
This news broadcast covers key national and corporate developments, starting with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) initiating legal adjudication against Nestle India over promotional claims for infant formulas such as NAN EXELA Pro Stage 1 and Lactogen Pro 1 under the Infant Milk Substitutes (IMS) Act.
A political showdown has emerged in Tamil Nadu between Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) and the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) regarding alliance allegiances and seat allocations. The DMDK criticised the VCK leadership, stating that parties switching alliances had done so to secure ministerial positions. In response, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan clarified that his remarks questioned whether coalition partners left purely out of a desire for power, or if the sudden entry and seat accommodation of the DMDK created dissatisfaction among existing allies. Both parties presented contrasting arguments concerning coalition dynamics and political motives.
At the India Today Kerala Roundtable, differing views emerged within the United Democratic Front coalition regarding remarks made by Muslim cleric Kanthapuram Abu Bakar Musliyar. While coalition leaders and ministers condemned the cleric's remarks asking women to stay indoors and not appear in public, Indian Union Muslim League legislator Fatima Thaliyah defended the cleric's constitutional right to express his opinion despite disagreeing with the view. The discussions highlighted political stances on gender equality and secularism across the state.
Long queues formed outside the Apple store in Mumbai's BKC as customers gathered to purchase the new iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models. Buyers expressed excitement over new features and colour options such as burgundy, with some stating they upgraded from older models like the iPhone 16 Pro. Customers discussed the high cost of the devices, with prices cited around 1.65 lakh to 1.80 lakh rupees. Several buyers noted they cut down on travel and holiday expenses to afford multiple devices for themselves and their families, citing passion and personal interest in the Apple brand.