A few minutes cost her NEET dream

Speaking at the India Today Mumbai Conclave in an interview with Rajdeep Sardesai, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray addressed issues concerning institutional integrity, electoral processes, and governance. Thackeray voiced criticism of the Election Commission of India regarding the Special Intensive Revision process, claiming that legitimate voters were omitted from draft electoral rolls, and demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Referring to past complaints from the Mumbai Northwest constituency, he contested assertions that opposition parties only question EVMs and voter lists following electoral losses. Thackeray termed the past ten years a lost decade for national employment, economic growth, and infrastructure quality, while projecting that the next general election could occur prior to 2029. He highlighted Shiv Sena (UBT)'s plan to field younger candidates, addressed Maharashtra's civic amenities, road conditions, and drought relief measures, and affirmed support for Rahul Gandhi within the INDIA alliance.

In an interview, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis discussed the governance challenges in the state, political protests, and the Bharatiya Janata Party's evolving communication outreach. Pointing to the drought caused by El Niño affecting 75 percent of the state's crops as Maharashtra's most pressing challenge, Fadnavis maintained that administration remains under his complete control. Commenting on nationwide student and political agitations, he categorized them into genuine grievances and manufactured protests driven by ultra-leftist designs aiming to demonize constitutional institutions, stating, "This is anarchy." Fadnavis highlighted that democratic governance necessitates engagement with all sections of society, including Gen-Z, emphasizing the critical role of social media platforms like Instagram. Addressing speculation about a potential move to central politics in Delhi, Fadnavis firmly asserted that his current focus remains exclusively on serving Maharashtra, reiterating his dedication to the responsibilities assigned to him by party leadership.

A 10-member INDIA bloc delegation met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday, submitting a memorandum seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged electoral roll irregularities.

An INDIA bloc delegation met President Droupadi Murmu and submitted a memorandum demanding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation and a return to ballot papers instead of EVMs. Opposition leaders raised concerns over electoral processes and alleged irregularities in recent elections. According to the delegation, the President asked them to provide evidence supporting their claims, which they agreed to submit. The opposition also plans to approach the Supreme Court with its memorandum, while preparations are underway for further protests in Delhi over electoral integrity and the Election Commission’s functioning.