LSR Students Protest Gang Rape In Delhi, Seek Safe Streets And Better Policing

In an interview with India Today, former Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa discussed reports concerning objections raised by two sitting election commissioners regarding decisions taken by the Election Commission of India. Lavasa questioned the procedural legality of actions taken during the Special Intensive Revision exercise, highlighting issues surrounding modifications to Form 6 and the centralisation of the voter database. He noted, "All the details should be placed in the public domain so that things are clear." Lavasa underscored that statutory powers regarding voter addition and deletion belong strictly to Electoral Registration Officers under the law, warning against centralising decisions without proper legal authority. He also pointed to court affidavits regarding electoral roll deletions in West Bengal, noting that a high proportion of appeals decided in favour of deleted electors indicates systemic concerns that require transparent clarification from the poll panel.

The Election Commission of India faces scrutiny following reports detailing internal dissent, with questions raised regarding changes made to Form 6 and the legality of the process followed. Further concerns have emerged over the centralisation of data, which commissioners noted was not in accordance with the law, as well as communications addressed to the cabinet secretary. While the poll body issued a press release asserting that internal deliberations and discussions routinely precede decisions and pointed to unanimous signatures on the final Special Summary Revision order, questions persist regarding voter additions in West Bengal and objections raised against them, leaving key queries regarding administrative processes unanswered.

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu discussed ending India's 28-year medal drought in weightlifting at the Asian Games by winning a silver medal. Having previously secured Olympic, World Championship, and Commonwealth Games podium finishes, she noted that this was the only missing accolade in her career, stating, "Finally now the medal list is complete." Mirabai explained her disciplined preparation, revealing that she cuts off social media and phone access before major competitions to prevent injuries and maintain peak focus. She added that her coach has granted permission to celebrate the achievement, confirming she will enjoy pizza before turning her attention to future tournaments.

Tensions escalated at the United Nations General Assembly in New York following former US President Donald Trump's address targeting Iran. Trump labelled the country as a leading sponsor of terrorism, accusing the regime of spreading carnage and chaos across the Middle East. While reiterating that Washington had offered economic cooperation in exchange for halting nuclear ambitions, he noted that talks were rejected and maintained that Iran would never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, all eyes are on Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's upcoming speech on American soil at the assembly, amid speculation over whether any diplomatic engagement or retaliatory rhetoric will unfold between the two sides.