August 18, 2026

Army chief General Seth with Nepal PM Balendra Shah Army chief general Dhiraj Seth met Nepal prime minister and defence minister Balendra Shah in Kathmandu on Tuesday, with the two sides discussing bilateral issues and ways to strengthen military ties amid a period of unease in relations between the two neighbours.General Seth, who is on a four-day visit to Nepal at the invitation of Nepali Army chief general Ashok Raj Sigdel, held the meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar.Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava was also present. According to sources at the Prime Minister’s secretariat, the discussions focused on matters of mutual interest and strengthening bilateral military relations.The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu said General Seth called on the Prime Minister and held “warm and productive” discussions on strengthening defence cooperation between both countries. General Seth also visited the Nepali Army Command and Staff College in Shivapuri, where he shared his perspectives on professional military education and contemporary security challenges with faculty and student officers.General Seth conferred honorary Nepali Army general rankThe visit comes as India and Nepal continue a unique military tradition dating back to 1950. Under the arrangement, the army chiefs of the two countries are conferred the honorary rank of general in each other’s armies as a symbol of their longstanding defence ties.Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army on General Seth during a ceremony in Kathmandu on Monday.General Seth had earlier held bilateral talks with General Sigdel at Nepal Army headquarters, where the two discussed matters of mutual interest.The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu said the army chief’s visit “reaffirms the unique and time-tested defence relations between India and Nepal”, describing the ties as being rooted in shared values, mutual trust and enduring military-to-military relations.Visit comes amid India-Nepal uneaseGen Seth’s visit comes against the backdrop of some strain in India-Nepal ties, particularly over the longstanding border dispute involving Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani. India maintains that the territories are part of Uttarakhand, while Nepal has claimed them as part of its territory.Shah had said in Parliament in May that Kathmandu was discussing the border issue not only with India but also with China and the UK. New Delhi subsequently rejected any role for third parties in resolving the boundary dispute.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesDespite these differences, Shah has recently signalled a push to deepen ties with New Delhi. Earlier this month, he held his first one-on-one meeting with Indian Ambassador Srivastava and stressed the importance of Nepal’s “historic relationship” with India.Shah has not yet visited either India or China since becoming prime minister. Instead, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal travelled to both New Delhi and Beijing in June.The visit by Gen. Seth also comes after Shah’s predecessor, K P Sharma Oli, made China his first foreign destination after taking office in 2024, departing from the longstanding practice of Nepalese prime ministers making India their first foreign visit.During his Nepal visit, General Seth also offered prayers at Kathmandu’s Pashupatinath Temple.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorPrisha PatnaikPrisha Patnaik is a journalist with The Times of India, writing across geopolitics, international affairs, culture, history and internet culture. With over two years of experience in social media and digital content, she is interested in how news, politics and culture are shaped for digital audiences. She holds a master’s degree in Media and Communications from Goldsmiths, University of London.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
Army chief General Seth with Nepal PM Balendra Shah Army chief general Dhiraj Seth met Nepal prime minister and defence minister Balendra Shah in Kathmandu on Tuesday, with the two sides discussing bilateral issues and ways to strengthen military ties amid a period of unease in relations between the two neighbours.General Seth, who is on a four-day visit to Nepal at the invitation of Nepali Army chief general Ashok Raj Sigdel, held the meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar.Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava was also present. According to sources at the Prime Minister’s secretariat, the discussions focused on matters of mutual interest and strengthening bilateral military relations.The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu said General Seth called on the Prime Minister and held “warm and productive” discussions on strengthening defence cooperation between both countries. General Seth also visited the Nepali Army Command and Staff College in Shivapuri, where he shared his perspectives on professional military education and contemporary security challenges with faculty and student officers.General Seth conferred honorary Nepali Army general rankThe visit comes as India and Nepal continue a unique military tradition dating back to 1950. Under the arrangement, the army chiefs of the two countries are conferred the honorary rank of general in each other’s armies as a symbol of their longstanding defence ties.Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army on General Seth during a ceremony in Kathmandu on Monday.General Seth had earlier held bilateral talks with General Sigdel at Nepal Army headquarters, where the two discussed matters of mutual interest.The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu said the army chief’s visit “reaffirms the unique and time-tested defence relations between India and Nepal”, describing the ties as being rooted in shared values, mutual trust and enduring military-to-military relations.Visit comes amid India-Nepal uneaseGen Seth’s visit comes against the backdrop of some strain in India-Nepal ties, particularly over the longstanding border dispute involving Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani. India maintains that the territories are part of Uttarakhand, while Nepal has claimed them as part of its territory.Shah had said in Parliament in May that Kathmandu was discussing the border issue not only with India but also with China and the UK. New Delhi subsequently rejected any role for third parties in resolving the boundary dispute.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesDespite these differences, Shah has recently signalled a push to deepen ties with New Delhi. Earlier this month, he held his first one-on-one meeting with Indian Ambassador Srivastava and stressed the importance of Nepal’s “historic relationship” with India.Shah has not yet visited either India or China since becoming prime minister. Instead, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal travelled to both New Delhi and Beijing in June.The visit by Gen. Seth also comes after Shah’s predecessor, K P Sharma Oli, made China his first foreign destination after taking office in 2024, departing from the longstanding practice of Nepalese prime ministers making India their first foreign visit.During his Nepal visit, General Seth also offered prayers at Kathmandu’s Pashupatinath Temple.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorPrisha PatnaikPrisha Patnaik is a journalist with The Times of India, writing across geopolitics, international affairs, culture, history and internet culture. With over two years of experience in social media and digital content, she is interested in how news, politics and culture are shaped for digital audiences. She holds a master’s degree in Media and Communications from Goldsmiths, University of London.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir


Army chief Seth meets Nepal PM Shah, discusses defence ties amid border tensions
Army chief General Seth with Nepal PM Balendra Shah

Army chief general Dhiraj Seth met Nepal prime minister and defence minister Balendra Shah in Kathmandu on Tuesday, with the two sides discussing bilateral issues and ways to strengthen military ties amid a period of unease in relations between the two neighbours.General Seth, who is on a four-day visit to Nepal at the invitation of Nepali Army chief general Ashok Raj Sigdel, held the meeting at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar.Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava was also present. According to sources at the Prime Minister’s secretariat, the discussions focused on matters of mutual interest and strengthening bilateral military relations.The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu said General Seth called on the Prime Minister and held “warm and productive” discussions on strengthening defence cooperation between both countries. General Seth also visited the Nepali Army Command and Staff College in Shivapuri, where he shared his perspectives on professional military education and contemporary security challenges with faculty and student officers.

General Seth conferred honorary Nepali Army general rank

The visit comes as India and Nepal continue a unique military tradition dating back to 1950. Under the arrangement, the army chiefs of the two countries are conferred the honorary rank of general in each other’s armies as a symbol of their longstanding defence ties.Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army on General Seth during a ceremony in Kathmandu on Monday.General Seth had earlier held bilateral talks with General Sigdel at Nepal Army headquarters, where the two discussed matters of mutual interest.The Indian Embassy in Kathmandu said the army chief’s visit “reaffirms the unique and time-tested defence relations between India and Nepal”, describing the ties as being rooted in shared values, mutual trust and enduring military-to-military relations.

Visit comes amid India-Nepal unease

Gen Seth’s visit comes against the backdrop of some strain in India-Nepal ties, particularly over the longstanding border dispute involving Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura and Kalapani. India maintains that the territories are part of Uttarakhand, while Nepal has claimed them as part of its territory.Shah had said in Parliament in May that Kathmandu was discussing the border issue not only with India but also with China and the UK. New Delhi subsequently rejected any role for third parties in resolving the boundary dispute.

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Mallikarjun Kharge also referred to Congress’s historical role in deciding which national songs would be adopted. NEW DELHI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday defended the version of Vande Mataram sung at the party’s Independence Day programme, saying it was the same version historically sung by Congress leaders including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.Kharge said that if singing that version was considered an offence, the government should also register cases against the late leaders. He also referred to Congress’s historical role in deciding which national songs would be adopted.”I sang the same ‘Vande Mataram’ that Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru sang. If singing it is a crime, then they have been committing that crime for the past 18 years. If this is a crime, then file a case against Gandhi ji. If this is a crime, file one against Nehru ji. If this is a crime, then against Vallabhbhai Patel. They are unaware of the fact that, even before they were born, Congress had passed a resolution determining which national songs to adopt for the country. It is not the case that whatever you say becomes the national standard. Tomorrow, another government might come to power; if they say something, that becomes the rule. We have simply continued the practice that has been in place for 90 years,” he told news agency ANI.The BJP had criticised the Congress after a video from the party headquarters showed Kharge and Sonia Gandhi speaking while Vande Mataram was being performed during the August 15 Independence Day programme. The BJP accused the Congress leadership of disrespecting the national song and sought an apology.The issue remained part of the political discourse in Goa as well. At a Pradesh Congress Committee programme on Monday attended by Kharge, two stanzas of Vande Mataram were sung.Kharge questions BJP, RSS freedom struggle roleKharge also targeted the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during a public rally in South Goa. He questioned their contribution to India’s freedom movement and accused them of being “anti-India” and “anti-religion.”He also referred to repeated BJP attacks on the Gandhi family and contrasted his political experience with that of Union home minister Amit Shah, saying he had become an MLA before Shah was born.Kharge further accused the ruling party in Goa of “kidnapping” MLAs to form the government.Congress turns focus to 2027 Goa pollsDuring his visit, Kharge met Goa Pradesh Congress Committee leaders as the party began preparing for the 2027 Assembly elections.He said he had spoken to Congress leaders about maintaining unity ahead of the polls and expressed confidence in the party workers.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”I called all our leaders and spoke with them; I emphasized that we must fight the upcoming election unitedly. They assured me that they would stand together and win this time. Subsequently, I met with representatives from various sections of society, listened to their concerns, and engaged with them. I am happy that the Congress leaders here are working together with courage, despite the local government’s attempts to intimidate and suppress us–tactics that will not succeed. In a democracy, when a government comes to power, it should act responsibly; when another government takes over, it too must operate within the rules. Our people will certainly do what is necessary to win the election peacefully,” Kharge said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir

Mallikarjun Kharge also referred to Congress’s historical role in deciding which national songs would be adopted. NEW DELHI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday defended the version of Vande Mataram sung at the party’s Independence Day programme, saying it was the same version historically sung by Congress leaders including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.Kharge said that if singing that version was considered an offence, the government should also register cases against the late leaders. He also referred to Congress’s historical role in deciding which national songs would be adopted.”I sang the same ‘Vande Mataram’ that Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru sang. If singing it is a crime, then they have been committing that crime for the past 18 years. If this is a crime, then file a case against Gandhi ji. If this is a crime, file one against Nehru ji. If this is a crime, then against Vallabhbhai Patel. They are unaware of the fact that, even before they were born, Congress had passed a resolution determining which national songs to adopt for the country. It is not the case that whatever you say becomes the national standard. Tomorrow, another government might come to power; if they say something, that becomes the rule. We have simply continued the practice that has been in place for 90 years,” he told news agency ANI.The BJP had criticised the Congress after a video from the party headquarters showed Kharge and Sonia Gandhi speaking while Vande Mataram was being performed during the August 15 Independence Day programme. The BJP accused the Congress leadership of disrespecting the national song and sought an apology.The issue remained part of the political discourse in Goa as well. At a Pradesh Congress Committee programme on Monday attended by Kharge, two stanzas of Vande Mataram were sung.Kharge questions BJP, RSS freedom struggle roleKharge also targeted the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during a public rally in South Goa. He questioned their contribution to India’s freedom movement and accused them of being “anti-India” and “anti-religion.”He also referred to repeated BJP attacks on the Gandhi family and contrasted his political experience with that of Union home minister Amit Shah, saying he had become an MLA before Shah was born.Kharge further accused the ruling party in Goa of “kidnapping” MLAs to form the government.Congress turns focus to 2027 Goa pollsDuring his visit, Kharge met Goa Pradesh Congress Committee leaders as the party began preparing for the 2027 Assembly elections.He said he had spoken to Congress leaders about maintaining unity ahead of the polls and expressed confidence in the party workers.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”I called all our leaders and spoke with them; I emphasized that we must fight the upcoming election unitedly. They assured me that they would stand together and win this time. Subsequently, I met with representatives from various sections of society, listened to their concerns, and engaged with them. I am happy that the Congress leaders here are working together with courage, despite the local government’s attempts to intimidate and suppress us–tactics that will not succeed. In a democracy, when a government comes to power, it should act responsibly; when another government takes over, it too must operate within the rules. Our people will certainly do what is necessary to win the election peacefully,” Kharge said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir

Vamsikrishna 0
Rahul said he had personally met some of the injured protesters and alleged that videos of the police action had been widely circulated. NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday hit out at parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju after he defended the handling of recent student protests by Delhi police. Rijiju had praised the Delhi Police for managing large student demonstrations without any deaths or serious injuries.“Not a single person was harmed; not a single person suffered a broken bone. Not even one protester is in the hospital with a serious injury. Consider the scale of this movement: thousands turned up, and so many criminals infiltrated under the guise of students,” Rijiju said.Responding on X, Rahul accused the government of ignoring injuries suffered during the protests and questioned Rijiju’s call to praise the police.“Ministers of the Modi government are saying that “the Delhi Police should be praised.” Half a kilometer from Parliament, pellet guns were fired at peaceful students, lathis studded with nails were used, one child’s eye was lost, one girl’s ear was severed. Should we praise this brutality?” the leader of opposition in Lok Sabha wrote.Rahul said he had personally met some of the injured protesters and alleged that videos of the police action had been widely circulated.“The fundamental mantra of this government is untruth and violence. First, beat the children with lathis, then claim that nothing happened at all,” he said.He also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over their response to the protests.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines“Throughout the entire session, the “missing” Amit Shah kept running from the opposition. And the Prime Minister has not apologized to the students to this day,” Rahul wrote.Rijiju, meanwhile, said the government remained committed to protecting students’ interests and promised strict action against those responsible for examination leaks.He also claimed that political groups, including the Aam Aadmi Party, Bhim Army and Samajwadi Party, had joined the demonstrations and incited violence.“Furthermore, more than half the people, whether from the Aam Aadmi Party, the dafli-playing agitators, the Bhim Army, or the Samajwadi Party, came and incited others to violence; yet, not a single casualty occurred,” he said.“We respect the students’ sentiments. The Prime Minister introduced such a good law and took step after step, promising to work for their future,” he said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorVivek DubeyA digital news desk journalist at The Times of India with over two years of experience. Closely tracks foreign affairs and international politics. Fondness for precise language and clever headlines. When not editing news, he is usually refining a turn of phrase.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir

Rahul said he had personally met some of the injured protesters and alleged that videos of the police action had been widely circulated. NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday hit out at parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju after he defended the handling of recent student protests by Delhi police. Rijiju had praised the Delhi Police for managing large student demonstrations without any deaths or serious injuries.“Not a single person was harmed; not a single person suffered a broken bone. Not even one protester is in the hospital with a serious injury. Consider the scale of this movement: thousands turned up, and so many criminals infiltrated under the guise of students,” Rijiju said.Responding on X, Rahul accused the government of ignoring injuries suffered during the protests and questioned Rijiju’s call to praise the police.“Ministers of the Modi government are saying that “the Delhi Police should be praised.” Half a kilometer from Parliament, pellet guns were fired at peaceful students, lathis studded with nails were used, one child’s eye was lost, one girl’s ear was severed. Should we praise this brutality?” the leader of opposition in Lok Sabha wrote.Rahul said he had personally met some of the injured protesters and alleged that videos of the police action had been widely circulated.“The fundamental mantra of this government is untruth and violence. First, beat the children with lathis, then claim that nothing happened at all,” he said.He also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over their response to the protests.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines“Throughout the entire session, the “missing” Amit Shah kept running from the opposition. And the Prime Minister has not apologized to the students to this day,” Rahul wrote.Rijiju, meanwhile, said the government remained committed to protecting students’ interests and promised strict action against those responsible for examination leaks.He also claimed that political groups, including the Aam Aadmi Party, Bhim Army and Samajwadi Party, had joined the demonstrations and incited violence.“Furthermore, more than half the people, whether from the Aam Aadmi Party, the dafli-playing agitators, the Bhim Army, or the Samajwadi Party, came and incited others to violence; yet, not a single casualty occurred,” he said.“We respect the students’ sentiments. The Prime Minister introduced such a good law and took step after step, promising to work for their future,” he said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorVivek DubeyA digital news desk journalist at The Times of India with over two years of experience. Closely tracks foreign affairs and international politics. Fondness for precise language and clever headlines. When not editing news, he is usually refining a turn of phrase.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir

Vamsikrishna 0
Pakistan SC directs govt to move Imran Khan, while a grenade blast near Kabul school injures around 50 children. Meanwhile, Bihar transfers 17 IPS officers amid row over student protest (Photo: AP/IANS) Pakistan’s Supreme Court has directed the government to move imprisoned former prime minister Imran Khan to a hospital amid concerns over his health.The Supreme Court has refused to scrap hanging as the method of executing the death penalty, while saying the issue can be reconsidered if new scientific or medical evidence shows another method causes less pain.The Bihar government has transferred 17 senior IPS officers amid controversy over police action during a student protest in Siwan.A hand grenade explosion near a school in Kabul’s Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood injured several children, with local media reports putting the number at around 50.Rishabh Pant became the first Indian cricketer to hit 100 sixes in Test cricket during India’s first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.Here are the top 5 stories of the day’Move Imran Khan to hospital’: Pakistan Supreme Court directs govt amid ex-PM’s health concernsPakistan’s Supreme Court has directed the government to transfer former prime minister Imran Khan from prison to a hospital amid concerns over his health. The direction came after appeals from Khan’s political party and family members seeking medical attention for him. The court’s order requires authorities to ensure that Khan receives medical care while he remains in custody. Read full storyDeath penalty by lethal injection, shooting or electrocution instead of hanging? SC rejects pleaThe Supreme Court has rejected a plea seeking to replace hanging as the method of carrying out the death penalty with alternatives including lethal injection, shooting or electrocution. The court, however, left room for the issue to be reconsidered if new scientific or medical evidence establishes that another method is less painful and more humane. The court also said the central government could constitute an expert panel to examine alternative methods of execution. Read full storyBihar transfers 17 IPS officers amid row over AK-47 use during student protestThe Bihar government has transferred 17 senior IPS officers in an administrative reshuffle amid controversy over police action during student protests. The transfers include the superintendents of police of Siwan and Bhojpur districts. The controversy centres on the use of AK-47 rifles by police personnel to disperse protesting students, particularly in Siwan. Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesRead full storyBlast near Kabul school injures around 50 children; UN condemns ‘heinous’ actA hand grenade explosion near a school in Kabul’s Dasht-e-Barchi injured several children. Kabul police confirmed that children were among those wounded and said an investigation was underway. Local media reports put the number of injured children at around 50. The UN special rapporteur on Afghanistan condemned the incident as a “heinous” act. Read full storyRishabh Pant creates history, becomes first Indian to achieve this feat in TestsIndia’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant created history during the Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle by becoming the first Indian cricketer to hit 100 sixes in Test cricket. Pant reached the milestone with a six off Lahiru Kumara, which also brought up his 20th Test fifty. Pant became only the fourth batter in Test history to hit 100 sixes, after Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum and Adam Gilchrist. Read full storyGet the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir

Pakistan SC directs govt to move Imran Khan, while a grenade blast near Kabul school injures around 50 children. Meanwhile, Bihar transfers 17 IPS officers amid row over student protest (Photo: AP/IANS) Pakistan’s Supreme Court has directed the government to move imprisoned former prime minister Imran Khan to a hospital amid concerns over his health.The Supreme Court has refused to scrap hanging as the method of executing the death penalty, while saying the issue can be reconsidered if new scientific or medical evidence shows another method causes less pain.The Bihar government has transferred 17 senior IPS officers amid controversy over police action during a student protest in Siwan.A hand grenade explosion near a school in Kabul’s Dasht-e-Barchi neighbourhood injured several children, with local media reports putting the number at around 50.Rishabh Pant became the first Indian cricketer to hit 100 sixes in Test cricket during India’s first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.Here are the top 5 stories of the day’Move Imran Khan to hospital’: Pakistan Supreme Court directs govt amid ex-PM’s health concernsPakistan’s Supreme Court has directed the government to transfer former prime minister Imran Khan from prison to a hospital amid concerns over his health. The direction came after appeals from Khan’s political party and family members seeking medical attention for him. The court’s order requires authorities to ensure that Khan receives medical care while he remains in custody. Read full storyDeath penalty by lethal injection, shooting or electrocution instead of hanging? SC rejects pleaThe Supreme Court has rejected a plea seeking to replace hanging as the method of carrying out the death penalty with alternatives including lethal injection, shooting or electrocution. The court, however, left room for the issue to be reconsidered if new scientific or medical evidence establishes that another method is less painful and more humane. The court also said the central government could constitute an expert panel to examine alternative methods of execution. Read full storyBihar transfers 17 IPS officers amid row over AK-47 use during student protestThe Bihar government has transferred 17 senior IPS officers in an administrative reshuffle amid controversy over police action during student protests. The transfers include the superintendents of police of Siwan and Bhojpur districts. The controversy centres on the use of AK-47 rifles by police personnel to disperse protesting students, particularly in Siwan. Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesRead full storyBlast near Kabul school injures around 50 children; UN condemns ‘heinous’ actA hand grenade explosion near a school in Kabul’s Dasht-e-Barchi injured several children. Kabul police confirmed that children were among those wounded and said an investigation was underway. Local media reports put the number of injured children at around 50. The UN special rapporteur on Afghanistan condemned the incident as a “heinous” act. Read full storyRishabh Pant creates history, becomes first Indian to achieve this feat in TestsIndia’s wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant created history during the Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle by becoming the first Indian cricketer to hit 100 sixes in Test cricket. Pant reached the milestone with a six off Lahiru Kumara, which also brought up his 20th Test fifty. Pant became only the fourth batter in Test history to hit 100 sixes, after Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum and Adam Gilchrist. Read full storyGet the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir

Vamsikrishna 0
Ritabrata Banerjee to continue as the LoP in the West Bengal Assembly. NEW DELHI: Ritabrata Banerjee will continue as the leader of opposition in the West Bengal Assembly for now as the Calcutta high court division bench on Tuesday declined to disturb his appointment at the current stage.The bench of Justices Shampa Sarkar and Ajay Kumar Gupta directed that the challenge to his appointment be decided by a single judge within two months.The case was filed by Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, a TMC MLA from the Mamata Banerjee camp, who had challenged assembly speaker Rathindra Bose’s decision to appoint Ritabrata Banerjee as the leader of opposition.The division bench’s order means that Banerjee will remain in the post until the single bench decides Chattopadhyay’s petition.Chattopadhyay had approached the high court after the Speaker rejected his claim to the post and appointed Ritabrata Banerjee instead.The matter had earlier come before a single bench, which on June 18 declined to grant any interim relief against the speaker’s decision. Chattopadhyay then challenged that order before the division bench.The division bench has now directed the single bench to hear the challenge to the speaker’s decision and reach a decision within two months. Until then, Ritabrata Banerjee will continue as leader of opposition.Ritabrata, Sandipan Saha (who is now deputy LoP), and several other rebel MLAs backing BJP-led NDA have alleged their signatures were forged on a May 6 letter sent to the assembly speaker proposing Sobhandeb’s name as LoP – a case making headlines as “signgate” and being investigated by Bengal police CID.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesSandipan called high court’s refusal to intervene a “moral victory”. “Ritabrata and I had initiated this fight. We brought the alleged signature irregularities in TMC’s letter to the speaker’s notice. The issue then went to court. Today’s victory in HC confirms that law is on our side,” he said.High court’s refusal to hit pause has left Ritabrata firmly in the saddle for now, but courtroom battles and political trench warfare inside TMC show few signs of easing. “Of 80 Trinamool MLAs, 65 are with us. Of the remaining 15, one is in jail. For the time being, 14 are on the other side. Let us wait and watch,” Ritabrata said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir

Ritabrata Banerjee to continue as the LoP in the West Bengal Assembly. NEW DELHI: Ritabrata Banerjee will continue as the leader of opposition in the West Bengal Assembly for now as the Calcutta high court division bench on Tuesday declined to disturb his appointment at the current stage.The bench of Justices Shampa Sarkar and Ajay Kumar Gupta directed that the challenge to his appointment be decided by a single judge within two months.The case was filed by Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, a TMC MLA from the Mamata Banerjee camp, who had challenged assembly speaker Rathindra Bose’s decision to appoint Ritabrata Banerjee as the leader of opposition.The division bench’s order means that Banerjee will remain in the post until the single bench decides Chattopadhyay’s petition.Chattopadhyay had approached the high court after the Speaker rejected his claim to the post and appointed Ritabrata Banerjee instead.The matter had earlier come before a single bench, which on June 18 declined to grant any interim relief against the speaker’s decision. Chattopadhyay then challenged that order before the division bench.The division bench has now directed the single bench to hear the challenge to the speaker’s decision and reach a decision within two months. Until then, Ritabrata Banerjee will continue as leader of opposition.Ritabrata, Sandipan Saha (who is now deputy LoP), and several other rebel MLAs backing BJP-led NDA have alleged their signatures were forged on a May 6 letter sent to the assembly speaker proposing Sobhandeb’s name as LoP – a case making headlines as “signgate” and being investigated by Bengal police CID.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesSandipan called high court’s refusal to intervene a “moral victory”. “Ritabrata and I had initiated this fight. We brought the alleged signature irregularities in TMC’s letter to the speaker’s notice. The issue then went to court. Today’s victory in HC confirms that law is on our side,” he said.High court’s refusal to hit pause has left Ritabrata firmly in the saddle for now, but courtroom battles and political trench warfare inside TMC show few signs of easing. “Of 80 Trinamool MLAs, 65 are with us. Of the remaining 15, one is in jail. For the time being, 14 are on the other side. Let us wait and watch,” Ritabrata said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Join Republican Party’: Union Minister’s Big NDA Offer To CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke30,000 Protesters, 5,000 Cops: Delhi Police Defends Force Before Supreme Court In Protest CaseSIT Gives Clean Chit To Champat Rai & Anil Mishra In Ayodhya Probe, Submits Final Report | WatchVijay Apologises In Assembly After Karunanidhi Remark Sparks DMK Uproar Over Decorum BreachCriminal Cases Against Netas: 4,192 Trials Pending, 170 Lok Sabha MPs Face Serious ChargesJSSC-CGL CANCELLED: Jharkhand Students Celebrate After Government Accepts Key Demands“No Compensation, Build A School”: CJP Volunteer Emotional Tribute To Father Leaves Ranka In TearsAsish Banerjee Death Mystery: Threat, Blackmail Angle Probed As Note And Phones Face ScrutinyBJP’s Big Shake-Up: Ram Madhav Returns, Smriti Irani Gets Key Role In Nitin Nabin’s New Team‘Will Rise For Vande Mataram, But Won’t Sing’: Congress MP Imran Masood Amid Sonia Gandhi Row123Photostories‘Kantara’ star Rishab Shetty wore a black kurta and silk dhoti with a Gandaberunda motif, for a look fullof regal drama at Melbourne9 Simple daily remedies to enhance the power of your planetsHow to peel garlic quickly: 7 easy ways to remove garlic skin without sticky fingersRhea Chakraborty’s new luxurious home: A dreamy closet, French windows and moreBest time to oil your hair for growth: Morning, night, or before a wash? The truth is finally outSmoking, vaping, or heated tobacco: Which is worse? US-based dentist compares the three7 common non-venomous snakes found around the worldAditi Rao Hydari’s two iconic festive ensembles just made everyone else look underpreparedYou may feel completely fine, but these 6 everyday habits could be hurting your kidneysClassic Kasavu to rich Kanjeevaram:5 South Indian sarees to wear for Onam 2026123Hot PicksArshdeep Singh DangBank holidays this weekBihar STET 2026BJP new teamJharkhand ProtestJSSC-CGL exam cancelledAbhijeet DipkeSupreme Court HolidayTwisha SharmaTop TrendingTwisha SharmaDelhi Draft PollMadhya Pradesh AccidentKolkata Airport Building FireAbhijeet DipkeKiren RijijuBengaluru Double MurderWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoBen Gvir

Vamsikrishna 0