India's political landscape is ablaze with activity! From the ongoing debates surrounding the new farm bills and their impact on rural India, to the upcoming state elections shaping the national narrative, the stakes couldn't be higher. Key political figures are maneuvering strategically, with alliances shifting and power dynamics constantly in flux. The opposition's challenge to the ruling party is intensifying, sparking vigorous debates on crucial policy matters including economic reforms and social justice initiatives. Parliamentary proceedings are filled with heated exchanges, reflecting the deep divisions within the nation. This evolving political climate directly impacts the lives of every Indian citizen, influencing everything from economic opportunities to social welfare programs. Stay informed about the latest developments in Indian politics, from crucial legislative decisions to grassroots movements, by exploring Abtak.com for in-depth analysis and breaking news updates. Understanding the intricacies of our political system is crucial; stay engaged, stay informed, and stay ahead.
Kolhapur: Mahesh Vishnupant Kothe, a prominent leader of the NCP(SP) and former mayor of Solapur Municipal Corporation, passed away on Tuesday morning after suffering a heart attack at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. He was 60 years old. Also Read: Bengal woman forced to carry injured husband on back after hospital fails to provide wheelchair Kothe had traveled to Prayagraj to participate in the Mahakumbh with friends where he took a holy dip in the Ganga river. Shortly after he suffered a heart attack and was rushed to a local hospital where he was declared dead. "After bathing at Ganga ghat, he suffered heart attack. He was moved to local hospital, however doctors declared him dead. We approached Uttar Pradesh govt through Maharashtra govt to airlift Kothe and bring his mortal remains to Solapur," a relative of Kothe said. Tributes have poured in for Kothe who maintained good relations in politics. Kothe had contested the Solapur City North assembly seat but was defeated. A close confidant of Sharad Pawar, Kothe was the youngest mayor of Solapur and had a significant influence on the city's social work and politics. Pawar took to social media to pay tribute to Kothe praising his bravery and dedication to the party. "The youngest former mayor of Solapur and my old colleague Mahesh Kothe passed away sadly in Prayagraj. Mahesh Kothe had a great influence in the social work and politics of Solapur city. In his passing away, Solapur city has lost a brave worker. We all share in the grief of the Kothe family. Heartfelt condolences!," Pawar posted.
Lucknow, Jan 8 (UNI) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday said that the belief system of Sanatan Dharma represents the world's oldest culture, standing above comparison with any religion or sect. The CM said, "I inherit a legacy that spans thousands of years, with its cultural and spiritual events equally ancient. The tradition of Sanatan is higher than the sky and beyond comparison." Speaking at the 'Mahakumbh Mahasammelan, he emphasised the profound significance of the Maha Kumbh. He explained that after the Devasura Sangram (the battle between gods and demons), drops of nectar fell ...Read More >
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], January 8 (ANI): The anti-terror squad (ATS) of Maharashtra has arrested 60 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants across the entire state in the year 2024. In December 2024 alone, the ATS managed to arrest 43 Bangladeshi nations residing illegally. In 2025, to date, four cases have been filed against the illegal Bangladeshi nationals and six accused have been arrested. Most Bangladeshis have been arrested from Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi To Inaugurate, Lay Foundations for Projects Over INR 2 Lakh Crore in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam T ...Read More >
PRAYAGRAJ, India (AP) -- Millions of Hindu devotees, mystics and holy men and women from all across India flocked to the northern city of Prayagraj on Monday to kickstart the Maha Kumbh festival, which is being touted as the world's largest religious gathering. Over about the next six weeks, Hindu pilgrims will gather at the confluence of three sacred rivers -- the Ganges, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati -- where they will take part in elaborate rituals, hoping to begin a journey to achieve Hindu philosophy's ultimate goal: the release from the cycle of rebirth. Here's what to know abo ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], February 5 (ANI): Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Satish Mahana visited the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj on Wednesday and expressed his admiration for the arrangements, calling them "unique, amazing, and unimaginable." Speaking to ANI, Mahana shared his experience of visiting the Kumbh twice, remarking on the inclusivity of the event, where people from all walks of life--regardless of wealth, caste, or background--gather to bathe in the Triveni Sangam, embodying unity. "I am fortunate to have the opportunity of coming twice to Maha Kumbh. The arrangements her ...Read More >
The Congress leadership was aware it was losing ground to the ruling Mahayuti following the gains made during the Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra, several party leaders privy to an internal survey less than a month ahead of the November 20 elections have said, adding that the outcome shouldn't exactly come as a shock. As per a report in The Indian Express, several party leaders it spoke to admitted that a survey conducted in 103 "strong MVA seats" showed the Maha Vikas Aghadi ahead in only 44 seats out of 54 it was ahead in during the Lok Sabha elections. On the contrary, the Mahayuti, wh ...Read More >
Mumbai: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has drawn sharp criticism from Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) leaders and Vanchit president Prakash Ambedkar over his recent statements in Parliament on Dr BR Ambedkar. "Abhi ek fashion ho gaya hai (It has become a fashion now) - Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. If they had taken God's name as many times, then they would have got a place in heaven," Shah had said in Parliament. The MVA leaders hit out at Amit Shah for such remarks. Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole said that Amit Shah became the Home Minister only because of the Constitution. Shiv Sena ( ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 8 (ANI): As the commencement date for the 2025 Maha Kumbh nears, popular seers and saints are joining the crowd in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj. Amid celebrations, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati Maharaj on Wednesday demanded that cow be given the status of 'Rashtra Mata'. He said that one of the biggest problems was cow slaughter and it must be stopped. The seer said that they would organise a 'maha yagya' to press their demands. "All Sanatani Hindus are uniting here for Kumbh. Even though we have a number of problems, the ...Read More >
Mumbai, Jan 13 (PTI) Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut met with Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar in Mumbai on Monday amid doubts over the opposition MVA coalition's future after the former announced going solo in the local body elections in Maharashtra. Talking to reporters after the meeting, Raut slammed Union Home Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah for his critical remarks on Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray made during his visit to Maharashtra on Sunday. Sources revealed that the meeting at Pawar's Silver Oak residence, which lasted for 20 to 25 minutes, ...Read More >
PRAYAGRAJ, India: Tens of thousands of Hindus seeking absolution of their sins immersed themselves on Monday in freezing waters at the confluence of sacred rivers, as India began a six-week festival expected to draw the world's largest gathering of humanity. Held every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh Mela or Great Pitcher Festival, as the religious event in the city of Prayagraj in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh is called, attracts more than 400 million visitors, both Indians and tourists. As many as 40,000 police officers are on guard to provide security and help manage the crowds, while surv ...Read More >
Kanpur, January 27: Due to the massive influx of devotees for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, Varanasi's District Magistrate in Uttar Pradesh has announced that all schools in the district will be closed from Monday, January 27, 2025, to Wednesday, February 5, 2025. The decision is aimed at ensuring the safety of students and managing traffic congestion caused by the large number of pilgrims arriving in Varanasi for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. Despite the school closures, online classes will continue as usual to maintain the academic schedule, News18 reported. This directive applies to all CBSE, ICSE ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], February 7 (ANI): Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan arrived at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj on Friday and said that the 'Sanatana' culture embodies the oneness of being and that all the differences dissolve in it. Speaking to the media here, Arif Khan highlighted the Indian culture of seeing divinity in humanity, asserting that "manav" (humans) are a reflection of "Madhav" (God). Khan also noted that India's heritage, values, and ideals continue to be celebrated at the Mahakumbh, fostering unity among people beyond personal familiarity. "We should always not ...Read More >
The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition is now gearing up for a national protest after losing Maharashtra state elections. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, which suffered a crushing defeat in last week's Maharashtra state elections, is now gearing up for a national protest against the credibility of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), which it blames for its loss. The MVA, led by the Congress, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction), and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) (led by Sharad Pawar), is planning to challenge the use of EVMs in court and demand a return to ballot paper voting. Fo ...Read More >
New Delhi, December 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said the government is committed to providing every facility to the devotees visiting Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh. Ahead of his visit to Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on Friday, PM Modi said that he will take stock of the works related to the Maha Kumbh and also inaugurate and launch multiple development projects. PM Modi Prayagraj Visit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi To Arrive in Prayagraj Today To Launch Development Projects Worth Around INR 5,500 Crore. "Along with making the Maha Kumbh of faith divine and grand, we are committed to providi ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) January 27 (ANI): Spiritual leader and orator Devkinandan Thakur on Monday said that the Sanatana Dharma Sansad, which he convenes at the ongoing Mahakumbh, is organised for safeguarding Sanatanis. Devkinandan Thakurji Maharaj, as he is popularly known, said that the Dharma Sansad has been called for a board that can bring all our puja, tradition, culture, and Gau mata together and protect them. Also Read | Mahakumbh 2025: After Taking Holy Dip, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Along With His Family, Performs 'Aarti' at Triveni Sangam. "This Sanatana Dharma Sansad is ...Read More >
Mhow (M.P), Jan 27 (PTI) Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday urged party workers to unite in saving the Constitution, saying the Dalits, backwards, tribals and poor will suffer otherwise. Addressing the "Jai Bapu, Jai Bhim, Jai Samvidhan" rally here, he also branded the BJP-RSS people as "traitors" and said the Congress will never tolerate the exploitation of the poor in the name of religion. Taking a swipe at BJP leaders taking holy dip at the Maha Kumbh, Kharge said taking a dip in the holy Ganga will not help remove poverty. He, however, stressed that he does not wish to hurt ...Read More >
Kolkata: Trinamool Congress on Wednesday distanced itself from statements made by party MP Shatrughan Sinha, who said non-vegetarian food should be banned, and that the Uniform Civil Code is good but should only be implemented after consultations with all parties. The party also chose to describe MP and actor Rachna Banerjee's praise for the Kumbh Mela as her "personal opinion." Sinha, the two-time Asansol MP, speaking to ANI, said, "At first glance, whatever happened in Uttarakhand is commendable. The Uniform Civil Code should definitely be there. I believe there should be an all-party meeti ...Read More >
New Delhi, December 5: Uttar Pradesh's Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh expressed confidence that Mahakumbh 2025 will play a pivotal role in showcasing India's rich cultural heritage and Sanatan traditions globally. Speaking on the progress of preparations, he told IANS, "The arrangements for Mahakumbh are progressing in full swing. We are committed to welcoming all devotees, irrespective of their origin -- whether from different states of India or other countries. We aim to host them with unmatched arrangements that combine magnificence, divinity, and cultural vibrancy." "This gran ...Read More >
The Sena UBT chief spokesperson was reacting to Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad's comment that West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee should be allowed to lead the INDIA bloc. Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday said that his party was open to discuss if someone outside of the Congress party should lead the Opposition INDIA bloc. Speaking in New Delhi Delhi, Raut said that all the constituents of the INDIA bloc are willing to have a discuss ...Read More >
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 18 (PTI) Senior NCP leader in Kerala and state Forest Minister A K Saseendran on Wednesday rejected media reports about the change in the party's lone ministership in the Left government and made it clear that there is no obstacle for party MLA Thomas K Thomas to be part of the state cabinet instead of him. The Sharad Pawar-led NCP is an ally in the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in the state. It has two MLAS - A K Saseendran and Thomas K Thomas. Saseendran told reporters here that he had already made his stand clear in this regard and informed the party's state a ...Read More >
Mumbai: Former Union minister Sharad Pawar on Tuesday rubbished Union Home Minister Amit Shah's remarks that the BJP's victory in the Maharashtra assembly polls ended the politics of betrayal and treachery started by him in 1978. "I was the chief minister in 1978. I am not aware about his whereabouts then," Pawar told reporters in Mumbai. "When I was the chief minister, there were people like Uttamrao Patil from Jan Sangh in my ministry," Pawar added. The decorum of the post of home minister should be maintained, the NCP (SP) chief said, bemoaning the lack of communication between present pol ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], January 27 (ANI): Delhi Police detained BJP workers and leaders who were protesting against AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and the Punjab Government regarding the vandalism of a statue of Babasaheb Ambedkar in Amritsar on Monday. The Delhi BJP, led by party chief Virendra Sachdeva, MP Yogender Chandolia, and national general secretary Dushyant Kumar Gautam, protested against AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal and the Punjab Government. This demonstration was in response to the vandalism of a statue of Babasaheb Ambedkar in Amritsar. Also Read | Maha Kumbh Mela 20 ...Read More >
Mumbai, Dec 5 (PTI) BJP legislature party leader Devendra Fadnavis will be sworn-in as the new chief minister of Maharashtra on Thursday evening at a grand ceremony here to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other dignitaries. Fadnavis, who would be occupying the CM's post for the third time, along with two deputy chief ministers will take the oath of office, BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar told reporters, adding that other members of the cabinet will take oath later. Nationalist Congress Party chief Ajit Pawar and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde are expected to take oath as ...Read More >
Kolkata: BJP on Saturday criticised urban development minister Firhad Hakim over a video where the Kolkata mayor is purportedly heard making a comment on minorities. Hakim had made the comment while addressing an educational conference recently. Hakim said BJP was using his quote out of context and he was only referring to the gulf between the educated and the uneducated. "As education spreads, the gulf will be bridged and there will be one identity," said Hakim. Saying that he would never play ...Read More >
Mumbai, Dec 3 (PTI) Maharashtra's caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday visited a private hospital in Thane for a "check-up," two days before a new CM is sworn in at an open ground ceremony in south Mumbai. Even as it is not known yet who would take oath as chief minister at Azad Maidan on the evening of December 5, preparations are in full swing for the ceremony, to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, about 2,000 VVIPs and some 40,000 supporters. Shinde, who had been staying at his private residence in Thane for the last few days, visited the hospital in the morning. "I ...Read More >
NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule is consulting experts on Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) following Maharashtra's assembly poll results. The opposition questions EVM credibility after the Mahayuti coalition's significant win. Sule advocates for ballot papers, citing other countries' adoption, and will announce a final decision soon.NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule on Saturday said the opinion of experts is being sought over the "EVM issue" in the wake of the Maharashtra assembly polls' mandate as she b ...Read More >
Mumbai, Jan 10 (PTI) Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Friday said it was the responsibility of the Congress to keep the INDIA bloc intact as it was the largest party in the opposition alliance. Raut's statement came in the backdrop of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's remarks expressing dismay over the lack of clarity on INDIA bloc leadership and agenda, and saying the alliance should be wound up if it was meant only for the 2024 parliamentary elections. "If the alliance partners feel the INDIA bloc was only for the Lok Sabha polls and doesn't exist now, the Congress is t ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 21 (ANI): Former President Ram Nath Kovind arrived at the MahaKumbh in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj on Tuesday morning. Kovind expressed happiness over the arrangements at MahaKumbh. " The arrangements done here are really good; all facilities are there... I went to several camps. I'm very happy. Yogi Adityanath and UP's arrangements are really good; I thank the administration," Kovind told ANI. On One Nation, One Election, the former president, who was the chairman of the committee on the proposed bill, said, " The work is going on; it is in the hand ...Read More >
New Delhi, January 21: Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday extended greetings to the people of Tripura, Meghalaya and Manipur on their 53rd Statehood Day. In a social media post on X, Rahul Gandhi said wished for peace, progress and prosperity for the people of the state. "Best wishes to the people of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura on their Foundation Day! The rich diversity of languages, cultures, histories, and traditions in these states represents the true strength of India. May this special day strengthen our unity and bring peace, progress and pro ...Read More >
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 27 (ANI): The ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj has witnessed an extraordinary surge in devotees, with over 6.019 million pilgrims taking the holy dip at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers as of 12 pm on Monday, as per Uttar Pradesh government. Earlier today, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday took a holy dip at the Sangam Triveni in Prayagraj in the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela. Also Read | Uttarakhand Becomes First State To Implement Uniform Civil Code; CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Launches UCC Portal, Credits People for Implementatio ...Read More >
New Delhi, Dec 17 (UNI) The Opposition on Tuesday strongly opposed the introduction of the One Nation One Election Bill in the Lok Sabha, calling it as an attack on the Constitution and the federalism of the country and demanded that it must be withdrawn immediately. Objecting to the introduction of the Bill, Congress member Manish Tewari said, "The Bills moved by the Law and Justice Minister is assault on the basic structure of the Constitution and are beyond the legislative competence of this house. Therefore they need to be opposed and the introduction of the Bills need to be stopped," he ...Read More >