Ram Mandir donation scam: Champat Rai, Anil Mishra resign amid probe

The Election Commission of India has convened meetings with rival factions of the Trinamool Congress to resolve the dispute over the official party symbol and determine the legitimate faction. With upcoming by-elections approaching, both factions have fielded candidates claiming the original symbol. The Election Commission is considering discussions and deliberations that may lead to freezing the current party symbol and providing an alternate list of available symbols for both sides to choose from during the elections.

The Tata Sons board has approved the reappointment of N Chandrasekaran as chairman of the Tata Group for another five-year term during a meeting held in Mumbai. While board members voted in favor of Chandrasekaran continuing at the helm, Noel Tata voted against the resolution. The reappointment now awaits formal approval at the upcoming Annual General Meeting, as dissent from Noel Tata brings boardroom dynamics into focus ahead of the final confirmation.

The US Congress has fast-tracked a bill granting the president authority to impose 100% tariffs on countries purchasing oil and gas from Russia, including India, China, Turkey, and Japan. Originally proposed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, the revised legislation moved through the Senate and the House Freedom Caucus ahead of the midterm elections. Analysts note the move provides diplomatic leverage ahead of the Chinese president's visit to Washington, DC, to negotiate trade, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor issues. The measure also signals congressional intent to address ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia. Discussion highlighted concerns regarding the economic impact on India amid ongoing bilateral trade negotiations and global energy vulnerabilities. The legislation permits presidential waivers, with experts emphasizing the objective of restricting revenues funding Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.

The US House of Representatives has passed the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 with a 262 to 159 vote. The legislation empowers President Donald Trump to impose sanctions on Russia and tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian oil and gas, including India and China. The bill targets Russia's energy sector and shadow fleet, while authorising steep tariffs on the five largest importers of Russian energy. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India is closely monitoring developments and remains committed to ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion people through diversified sourcing, adding that it will take all necessary measures to safeguard economic interests.