April 6, 2026

Chennamaneni Ramesh (left) with BRS president KCR (File photo) Hyderabad: A year after Telangana HC declared that former BRS MLA Chennamaneni Ramesh was not an Indian citizen and imposed a Rs 30 lakh fine on him for concealing his German citizenship while contesting assembly elections, he continues to receive a pension of Rs 60,000 as a former MLA.Congress MLA Adi Srinivas has urged the assembly secretary not to pay the pension to Ramesh, arguing that he is not entitled to any govt benefits, and has demanded the recovery of benefits, emoluments, and salary already given to the German citizen.”As there has been no action on my previous request, I am again urging the assembly secretary and the Speaker to stop his pension immediately. I will approach the HC on this issue again, if required,” said Srinivas, who had challenged Ramesh’s citizenship.Sources said the assembly secretary had earlier informed Srinivas that the high court order did not mention recovering salary and other emoluments from Ramesh, and that there was no provision under existing rules to make such recoveries.Under the Telangana assembly rules, former MLAs are entitled to a pension, medical reimbursement, and other benefits. As Ramesh had served four terms as MLA from Vemulawada, he drew over Rs 50,000 as monthly pension from Dec 2023. Following court order, Ramesh paid Rs 30 lakh in damages.Former Telangana advocate general K Rama Krishna Reddy said, “The legislative secretary cannot decide on pension issues as he does not have adjudicating powers. The assembly Speaker can decide whether Ramesh is entitled to the pension, as this is a decision to be taken post-disposal of the court case. Srinivas can also approach the competent court on the issue.”He added that Srinivas had approached Supreme Court by filing a special leave petition to declare him elected for the terms Ramesh served as MLA. However, in Aug this year, Supreme Court, declining to interfere, said it could not ‘resurrect’ the matter as the term of the election had already ended.”Even SC did not address the emoluments and pension when the present MLA approached top court,” a source close to Ramesh told TOI.About the AuthorKoride MaheshKoride Mahesh has been working with the Times of India, Hyderabad for over two decades. He is currently senior assistant editor of TOI, Hyderabad. He holds PhD (doctorate) in Journalism and has a total of 32 years of experience in print journalism. He extensively writes on urban infrastructure, projects, civic issues, real estate market, land issues, energy, irrigation and state govt administration in Telangana. He also covers state political developments, especially BRSRead MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘We Will Win In The End’: Kuldeep Sengar’s Daughter Speaks After SC order On Unnao Rape Sentence’No Amount Of Finger Pointing…’: India Slams Pakistan Over Comments On Minorities In India’Blown Up In A Car’: Woman Threatens Asim Munir In Bradford Rally, Pakistan Summons UK EnvoyTurn Chicken’s Neck Into Elephant: Sadhguru Flags Siliguri Corridor As Strategic Weak Link’Won’t Spare A Single Infiltrator’: Amit Shah’s Poll Promise In Assam, Slams Cong Over InfiltrationUnnao Rape Survivor Welcomes Supreme Court Order, Says Legal Fight To Continue Till Sengar Is HangedSupreme Court Stays Its Order On Aravalli Definition, Environment Minister Welcomes Move’Called Minor Matter, Refused FIR’: Tripura Student Angel Chakma’s Father Blasts Uttarakhand PoliceAustralia, US And UK Raise Alarm Over Fake Rabies Vaccine As India Pushes Back On ClaimsShashi Tharoor Slams Racial Attack and Murder of Tripura Student In Dehradun As ‘National Disgrace’123PhotostoriesInspiring stories of kids who made headlines in 20256 types of Dhoklas to try at home‘Bigg Boss’ 19 fame Tanya Mittal’s accessory game is LIT: From pearl choker to kundan necklacesBharti Singh and newborn son Kaju receive a grand welcome home as family decorates the house for ChristmasFrom Smriti Mandhana-Palash Muchhal to Celina Jaitly-Peter Haag: 7 celebrity break-ups and divorces that shocked fans in 20255 times OpenAI CEO Sam Altman showed that fatherhood comes first9 national parks in India that are best explored on footWould you drive on these dangerous and unusual highways?Winter Special: How to make Matar ki Kachori for dinnerTV stars who ruled the headlines in 2025: From Gaurav Khanna to Tejasswi Prakash123Hot PicksSilver price todayPAN-Aadhaar linkingCristiano RonaldoGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundIndian Railways fareBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingErika KirkTravis KelceCandace OwensRobert Kraft & Gayle Benson Net WorthNick ShirleyDraymond GreenMicah Parsons ACL SurgeryAnthony Davis vs Luka Doncic Salary ComparisonBoogeyman WifeNew York Yankees

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Chennamaneni Ramesh (left) with BRS president KCR (File photo) Hyderabad: A year after Telangana HC declared that former BRS MLA Chennamaneni Ramesh was not an Indian citizen and imposed a Rs 30 lakh fine on him for concealing his German citizenship while contesting assembly elections, he continues to receive a pension of Rs 60,000 as a former MLA.Congress MLA Adi Srinivas has urged the assembly secretary not to pay the pension to Ramesh, arguing that he is not entitled to any govt benefits, and has demanded the recovery of benefits, emoluments, and salary already given to the German citizen.”As there has been no action on my previous request, I am again urging the assembly secretary and the Speaker to stop his pension immediately. I will approach the HC on this issue again, if required,” said Srinivas, who had challenged Ramesh’s citizenship.Sources said the assembly secretary had earlier informed Srinivas that the high court order did not mention recovering salary and other emoluments from Ramesh, and that there was no provision under existing rules to make such recoveries.Under the Telangana assembly rules, former MLAs are entitled to a pension, medical reimbursement, and other benefits. As Ramesh had served four terms as MLA from Vemulawada, he drew over Rs 50,000 as monthly pension from Dec 2023. Following court order, Ramesh paid Rs 30 lakh in damages.Former Telangana advocate general K Rama Krishna Reddy said, “The legislative secretary cannot decide on pension issues as he does not have adjudicating powers. The assembly Speaker can decide whether Ramesh is entitled to the pension, as this is a decision to be taken post-disposal of the court case. Srinivas can also approach the competent court on the issue.”He added that Srinivas had approached Supreme Court by filing a special leave petition to declare him elected for the terms Ramesh served as MLA. However, in Aug this year, Supreme Court, declining to interfere, said it could not ‘resurrect’ the matter as the term of the election had already ended.”Even SC did not address the emoluments and pension when the present MLA approached top court,” a source close to Ramesh told TOI.About the AuthorKoride MaheshKoride Mahesh has been working with the Times of India, Hyderabad for over two decades. He is currently senior assistant editor of TOI, Hyderabad. He holds PhD (doctorate) in Journalism and has a total of 32 years of experience in print journalism. He extensively writes on urban infrastructure, projects, civic issues, real estate market, land issues, energy, irrigation and state govt administration in Telangana. He also covers state political developments, especially BRSRead MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘We Will Win In The End’: Kuldeep Sengar’s Daughter Speaks After SC order On Unnao Rape Sentence’No Amount Of Finger Pointing…’: India Slams Pakistan Over Comments On Minorities In India’Blown Up In A Car’: Woman Threatens Asim Munir In Bradford Rally, Pakistan Summons UK EnvoyTurn Chicken’s Neck Into Elephant: Sadhguru Flags Siliguri Corridor As Strategic Weak Link’Won’t Spare A Single Infiltrator’: Amit Shah’s Poll Promise In Assam, Slams Cong Over InfiltrationUnnao Rape Survivor Welcomes Supreme Court Order, Says Legal Fight To Continue Till Sengar Is HangedSupreme Court Stays Its Order On Aravalli Definition, Environment Minister Welcomes Move’Called Minor Matter, Refused FIR’: Tripura Student Angel Chakma’s Father Blasts Uttarakhand PoliceAustralia, US And UK Raise Alarm Over Fake Rabies Vaccine As India Pushes Back On ClaimsShashi Tharoor Slams Racial Attack and Murder of Tripura Student In Dehradun As ‘National Disgrace’123PhotostoriesInspiring stories of kids who made headlines in 20256 types of Dhoklas to try at home‘Bigg Boss’ 19 fame Tanya Mittal’s accessory game is LIT: From pearl choker to kundan necklacesBharti Singh and newborn son Kaju receive a grand welcome home as family decorates the house for ChristmasFrom Smriti Mandhana-Palash Muchhal to Celina Jaitly-Peter Haag: 7 celebrity break-ups and divorces that shocked fans in 20255 times OpenAI CEO Sam Altman showed that fatherhood comes first9 national parks in India that are best explored on footWould you drive on these dangerous and unusual highways?Winter Special: How to make Matar ki Kachori for dinnerTV stars who ruled the headlines in 2025: From Gaurav Khanna to Tejasswi Prakash123Hot PicksSilver price todayPAN-Aadhaar linkingCristiano RonaldoGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundIndian Railways fareBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingErika KirkTravis KelceCandace OwensRobert Kraft & Gayle Benson Net WorthNick ShirleyDraymond GreenMicah Parsons ACL SurgeryAnthony Davis vs Luka Doncic Salary ComparisonBoogeyman WifeNew York Yankees


Ex-BRS MLA, a German citizen, still draws pension from House
Chennamaneni Ramesh (left) with BRS president KCR (File photo)

Hyderabad: A year after Telangana HC declared that former BRS MLA Chennamaneni Ramesh was not an Indian citizen and imposed a Rs 30 lakh fine on him for concealing his German citizenship while contesting assembly elections, he continues to receive a pension of Rs 60,000 as a former MLA.Congress MLA Adi Srinivas has urged the assembly secretary not to pay the pension to Ramesh, arguing that he is not entitled to any govt benefits, and has demanded the recovery of benefits, emoluments, and salary already given to the German citizen.“As there has been no action on my previous request, I am again urging the assembly secretary and the Speaker to stop his pension immediately. I will approach the HC on this issue again, if required,” said Srinivas, who had challenged Ramesh’s citizenship.Sources said the assembly secretary had earlier informed Srinivas that the high court order did not mention recovering salary and other emoluments from Ramesh, and that there was no provision under existing rules to make such recoveries.Under the Telangana assembly rules, former MLAs are entitled to a pension, medical reimbursement, and other benefits. As Ramesh had served four terms as MLA from Vemulawada, he drew over Rs 50,000 as monthly pension from Dec 2023. Following court order, Ramesh paid Rs 30 lakh in damages.Former Telangana advocate general K Rama Krishna Reddy said, “The legislative secretary cannot decide on pension issues as he does not have adjudicating powers. The assembly Speaker can decide whether Ramesh is entitled to the pension, as this is a decision to be taken post-disposal of the court case. Srinivas can also approach the competent court on the issue.”He added that Srinivas had approached Supreme Court by filing a special leave petition to declare him elected for the terms Ramesh served as MLA. However, in Aug this year, Supreme Court, declining to interfere, said it could not ‘resurrect’ the matter as the term of the election had already ended.“Even SC did not address the emoluments and pension when the present MLA approached top court,” a source close to Ramesh told TOI.



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NEW DELHI: Does Aam Aadmi Party not want Congress to win in Kerala assembly polls?INDIA bloc’s inability to form a unified front ahead of the Kerala assembly polls was exposed spectacularly after Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) released successive lists of candidates, signalling its intent to fight a full-scale battle across all 140 seats in Kerala.The southern state, recently rechristened Keralam in a nod to its cultural and linguistic heritage, now stands as the latest battleground where AAP’s ambitions clash head-on with Congress.Kerala’s electoral rhythm has long resisted continuity, with voters mostly denying incumbents a second straight term. That pattern places Congress, the principal opposition, in a seemingly favourable position in the race for power in Thiruvananthapuram.Yet, AAP’s assertive entry adds a twist. Is Kejriwal’s party merely expanding its footprint, or subtly complicating Congress’s path to power? With limited organisational depth in the Malayalam-speaking state, AAP may not hold significant relevance, but with Arvind Kejriwal and his team emerging from the shadow of the Delhi liquor case, their presence could still, if only marginally, alter the political equation in Kerala.The ruling Left, also part of the broader opposition fold, remains Congress’s primary rival, while the BJP trails as a distant third. In this triangular contest, AAP may not significantly dent the Left or the BJP, but it could influence the margins where elections are often decided, by chipping away at Congress’s vote share just enough to alter the final verdict.Is Delhi’s revenge being served in Kerala?2025 began with the startling defeat of the Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi. Earlier, the reluctant allies, AAP and Congress had decided to contest separately, with Congress, having little to lose, launching a belligerent campaign against the ruling Arvind Kejriwal-led dispensation.The grand old party also found an opening as the Kejriwal cabinet came under the scanner in the Delhi liquor policy case, with agencies like the CBI and ED probing the matter. Several senior AAP leaders, including Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia, faced legal trouble, leading to a phase where the government functioned under the chief ministership of party colleague and loyalist Atishi.While AAP’s defeat ultimately came at the hands of the BJP, Congress also played a significant, if indirect, role in preventing its INDIA bloc ally from securing a fourth consecutive term.The “vote-cutting” factor proved crucial in several constituencies, including New Delhi, where Sandeep Dikshit, son of former chief minister Sheila Dikshit, was fielded against Kejriwal. Though he finished a distant third, the votes he secured contributed to Kejriwal’s defeat and helped the BJP’s Parvesh Verma emerge as a “giant killer.”Hypothetically, had those votes gone to Kejriwal, the outcome might have been different. The AAP’s tally fell sharply from 62 to 22 seats, while Congress once again failed to open its account.The herculean efforts that brought AAP and Congress into an arranged marriage to counter the strong force of the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, despite years of political bitterness, unravelled once again in the 2025 assembly polls, reflecting a familiar pattern of rivalry.AAP, which rose from the India Against Corruption movement led by Anna Hazare, had directly challenged the government led by Sheila Dikshit and went on to establish a dominant hold over Delhi, reducing Congress from a ruling force to total insignificance.The Congress, once under Sheila Dikshit’s strong leadership for 15 years, has failed to win a single seat in the last two assembly elections (2020 and 2025), and has also drawn blanks in three consecutive Lok Sabha polls (2014, 2019, and 2024).Just as Congress dented AAP’s prospects in the Delhi assembly, AAP may now impact Congress’s chances in states like Kerala, as it seeks to maintain its relevance within the national opposition space.Coalition to confrontationLok Sabha allies turned Assembly rivals, the battle between the estranged partners was anything but graceful.At one rally, Arvind Kejriwal did not hold back: “The problem with Congress is its sense of entitlement. They think they have a divine right to lead the opposition just because of their past, even when they have zero presence on the ground. They are not fighting the BJP; they are fighting regional parties that actually defeat the BJP. In Delhi, Congress is nothing but a ‘vote-cutter’ meant to help the BJP.”Congress, in turn, capitalised on the troubles surrounding the Delhi excise policy case, hitting AAP where it hurt the most.Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra led rallies across Delhi, branding Kejriwal and other AAP leaders as “corrupt.” In one such rally, Rahul Gandhi remarked: “Kejriwal ji keeps lying. The way Narendra Modi lies, Kejriwal lies too. There isn’t much difference between them. But I will tell you one thing—Kejriwal is probably more cunning and sophisticated than even the Prime Minister in how he misleads people.”Weeks later, when a Delhi court discharged Kejriwal and his colleagues in the liquor policy case, Congress alleged it was part of a larger BJP strategy of “Congress-mukt Bharat.”Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera attacked the BJP, calling it an “Icchadhari naag” (shape-shifting serpent), and accused it of using central agencies as political tools.Kejriwal retaliated sharply, questioning Congress’s claims and targeting its leadership: “Kejriwal went to jail. Did Robert Vadra go to jail? Sanjay Singh went to jail. Did Rahul Gandhi go to jail? Did Sonia Gandhi go to jail? What is Congress saying? Does it have no shame?”To diminish Congress’s footprint?Congress, the grand old party with roots in the independence movement, has been grappling with vulnerability for over a decade.Beyond Delhi, it has steadily lost ground across multiple states, allowing the BJP to expand its dominance in national politics. This decline has also opened space for other players to challenge its position within the opposition.Among states like West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Kerala which are going to polls, Kerala appears to be the one where Congress still has a realistic chance of returning to power by dislodging the Left. That makes it a crucial battleground.In such a scenario, AAP’s entry could be seen as an attempt to dent Congress further, creating a situation where it will fight for relevance while also limiting Congress’s growth.Kejriwal’s Kerala push, with candidates across constituencies, could help position AAP as a more serious national player. The state offers a relatively low-risk opportunity, allowing AAP to contest without heavy stakes while keeping both BJP and Congress in check.To repeat Gujarat in Kerala?From Delhi and Punjab, Arvind Kejriwal has established a firm political foothold, successfully running a full-fledged government in Punjab under party colleague Bhagwant Mann, while also having governed the Union Territory of Delhi for over a decade with a commanding presence in the Assembly.However, the journey of the Aam Aadmi Party has not been limited to Delhi alone. Its steady, often indirect expansion has positioned Kejriwal as an emerging alternative in national politics. He has also made inroads into Gujarat, long considered a bastion of Narendra Modi.In its Gujarat debut, AAP secured over 13 percent of the vote, significantly impacting Congress. In the 2017 Assembly elections, Congress had secured 42.2 percent of the vote, putting up a strong fight against the BJP after Modi’s shift to national politics. However, AAP’s entry in 2022 disrupted that balance, reducing Congress’s vote share to 27.7 percent.While AAP made an impressive debut with around 13 percent votes, the BJP registered only a marginal increase—from about 50 percent to 53 percent.A similar pattern could unfold in Kerala, where AAP may not emerge as a dominant force but could influence the outcome by cutting into Congress’s vote share, potentially benefiting the incumbent Left—much like it did in Gujarat.To increase AAP’s footprint?The AAP, since its birth in 2013 out of Anna movement, has been in a constant effort to expand its footprint across India. So why not Kerala?For Arvind Kejriwal, ambition has never been confined to Delhi. After dismantling the long-standing dominance of Sheila Dikshit, he quickly stepped onto the national stage, taking on Narendra Modi in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. The contest in Varanasi may have ended in defeat, but it marked Kejriwal’s arrival as a major challenger.He secured over 20 percent of the vote, enough to push Congress to a distant third in Varanasi. Its candidate, Ajay Rai, managed only around 7 percent.The Kerala foray, then, is less an outlier and more a continuation of that journey, an attempt to test the party’s reach in the far south.Beyond its strongholds in Delhi and Punjab, AAP has steadily ventured into new political terrains.In Gujarat, it emerged as a significant player with over 13 percent of the vote, largely at Congress’s expense. In Goa, it secured nearly 7 percent and won two seats, once again cutting into Congress’s base.The party has even marked its presence in Jammu and Kashmir, with Mehraj Malik winning from Doda.From the northernmost reaches of J&K to AAP’s a newfound interest in the southern edge of Kerala.Rahul, Priyanka and Tharoor’s KeralaKejriwal’s entry into Kerala carries symbolic weight, especially for Congress, for whom the state has, in recent years, become a crucial political anchor. In moments of crisis, both Gandhi family scions, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, turned to Kerala.In 2019, when Rahul Gandhi lost his very own Amethi seat, it was Wayanad that delivered him a resounding victory. He returned to Wayanad again in 2024, winning comfortably, though he eventually chose to retain Rae Bareli.“I was a stranger to you and yet you believed in me. You embraced me with unbridled love and affection. It didn’t matter which political formation you supported, it didn’t matter which community you were from or which religion you believed in or which language you spoke,” Rahul said.“I am sad, but I am consoled because my sister Priyanka will be there to represent you. I am confident that she will do an excellent job of being your MP if you decide to giver her the opportunity. My central commitment to both you and the people of Rae Bareli is that we will fight and defeat the hatred and violence being spread in the country,” he added.Stepping aside from Wayanad, Rahul Gandhi thanked the electorate and paved the way for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s electoral debut from the same constituency. She went on to secure a resounding victory in the bypolls, further cementing the family’s connection with the state.After her win, Priyanka said, “I thank the people of Wayanad for giving me the honor to represent them.It’s a testament to the fact that my brother worked hard there, their love for him, and their trust in me. I feel it’s a great honor, and I will respect it fully.”Beyond the Gandhis, Kerala is also home to one of Congress’s most prominent national faces, Shashi Tharoor, a three-time MP from Thiruvananthapuram.Against this backdrop, Kejriwal’s Kerala push is not just another electoral experiment, it is a move that could unsettle established equations and complicate the political calculus for the state’s entrenched players.Kejriwal vs Rahul?After the formation of the INDIA bloc, the BJP-led NDA retained power at the Centre, with Rahul Gandhi becoming Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha.While Rahul rose to that position, questions over his leadership ambitions persisted. Within the opposition bloc, differences began surfacing, and AAP’s stance often appeared less aligned with him.AAP, at various points, has attempted to project Kejriwal as a potential national challenger to Narendra Modi, subtly sidelining Rahul Gandhi’s prospects.With repeated electoral setbacks for Congress and AAP’s aggressive expansion, the contest within the opposition space may no longer be just against the BJP, but also among its own key playersAbout the AuthorAbhishek MishraAbhishek Mishra is a Digital Content Producer at The Times of India, working with the news desk. 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NEW DELHI: Does Aam Aadmi Party not want Congress to win in Kerala assembly polls?INDIA bloc’s inability to form a unified front ahead of the Kerala assembly polls was exposed spectacularly after Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) released successive lists of candidates, signalling its intent to fight a full-scale battle across all 140 seats in Kerala.The southern state, recently rechristened Keralam in a nod to its cultural and linguistic heritage, now stands as the latest battleground where AAP’s ambitions clash head-on with Congress.Kerala’s electoral rhythm has long resisted continuity, with voters mostly denying incumbents a second straight term. That pattern places Congress, the principal opposition, in a seemingly favourable position in the race for power in Thiruvananthapuram.Yet, AAP’s assertive entry adds a twist. Is Kejriwal’s party merely expanding its footprint, or subtly complicating Congress’s path to power? With limited organisational depth in the Malayalam-speaking state, AAP may not hold significant relevance, but with Arvind Kejriwal and his team emerging from the shadow of the Delhi liquor case, their presence could still, if only marginally, alter the political equation in Kerala.The ruling Left, also part of the broader opposition fold, remains Congress’s primary rival, while the BJP trails as a distant third. In this triangular contest, AAP may not significantly dent the Left or the BJP, but it could influence the margins where elections are often decided, by chipping away at Congress’s vote share just enough to alter the final verdict.Is Delhi’s revenge being served in Kerala?2025 began with the startling defeat of the Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi. Earlier, the reluctant allies, AAP and Congress had decided to contest separately, with Congress, having little to lose, launching a belligerent campaign against the ruling Arvind Kejriwal-led dispensation.The grand old party also found an opening as the Kejriwal cabinet came under the scanner in the Delhi liquor policy case, with agencies like the CBI and ED probing the matter. Several senior AAP leaders, including Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia, faced legal trouble, leading to a phase where the government functioned under the chief ministership of party colleague and loyalist Atishi.While AAP’s defeat ultimately came at the hands of the BJP, Congress also played a significant, if indirect, role in preventing its INDIA bloc ally from securing a fourth consecutive term.The “vote-cutting” factor proved crucial in several constituencies, including New Delhi, where Sandeep Dikshit, son of former chief minister Sheila Dikshit, was fielded against Kejriwal. Though he finished a distant third, the votes he secured contributed to Kejriwal’s defeat and helped the BJP’s Parvesh Verma emerge as a “giant killer.”Hypothetically, had those votes gone to Kejriwal, the outcome might have been different. The AAP’s tally fell sharply from 62 to 22 seats, while Congress once again failed to open its account.The herculean efforts that brought AAP and Congress into an arranged marriage to counter the strong force of the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, despite years of political bitterness, unravelled once again in the 2025 assembly polls, reflecting a familiar pattern of rivalry.AAP, which rose from the India Against Corruption movement led by Anna Hazare, had directly challenged the government led by Sheila Dikshit and went on to establish a dominant hold over Delhi, reducing Congress from a ruling force to total insignificance.The Congress, once under Sheila Dikshit’s strong leadership for 15 years, has failed to win a single seat in the last two assembly elections (2020 and 2025), and has also drawn blanks in three consecutive Lok Sabha polls (2014, 2019, and 2024).Just as Congress dented AAP’s prospects in the Delhi assembly, AAP may now impact Congress’s chances in states like Kerala, as it seeks to maintain its relevance within the national opposition space.Coalition to confrontationLok Sabha allies turned Assembly rivals, the battle between the estranged partners was anything but graceful.At one rally, Arvind Kejriwal did not hold back: “The problem with Congress is its sense of entitlement. They think they have a divine right to lead the opposition just because of their past, even when they have zero presence on the ground. They are not fighting the BJP; they are fighting regional parties that actually defeat the BJP. In Delhi, Congress is nothing but a ‘vote-cutter’ meant to help the BJP.”Congress, in turn, capitalised on the troubles surrounding the Delhi excise policy case, hitting AAP where it hurt the most.Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra led rallies across Delhi, branding Kejriwal and other AAP leaders as “corrupt.” In one such rally, Rahul Gandhi remarked: “Kejriwal ji keeps lying. The way Narendra Modi lies, Kejriwal lies too. There isn’t much difference between them. But I will tell you one thing—Kejriwal is probably more cunning and sophisticated than even the Prime Minister in how he misleads people.”Weeks later, when a Delhi court discharged Kejriwal and his colleagues in the liquor policy case, Congress alleged it was part of a larger BJP strategy of “Congress-mukt Bharat.”Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera attacked the BJP, calling it an “Icchadhari naag” (shape-shifting serpent), and accused it of using central agencies as political tools.Kejriwal retaliated sharply, questioning Congress’s claims and targeting its leadership: “Kejriwal went to jail. Did Robert Vadra go to jail? Sanjay Singh went to jail. Did Rahul Gandhi go to jail? Did Sonia Gandhi go to jail? What is Congress saying? Does it have no shame?”To diminish Congress’s footprint?Congress, the grand old party with roots in the independence movement, has been grappling with vulnerability for over a decade.Beyond Delhi, it has steadily lost ground across multiple states, allowing the BJP to expand its dominance in national politics. This decline has also opened space for other players to challenge its position within the opposition.Among states like West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Kerala which are going to polls, Kerala appears to be the one where Congress still has a realistic chance of returning to power by dislodging the Left. That makes it a crucial battleground.In such a scenario, AAP’s entry could be seen as an attempt to dent Congress further, creating a situation where it will fight for relevance while also limiting Congress’s growth.Kejriwal’s Kerala push, with candidates across constituencies, could help position AAP as a more serious national player. The state offers a relatively low-risk opportunity, allowing AAP to contest without heavy stakes while keeping both BJP and Congress in check.To repeat Gujarat in Kerala?From Delhi and Punjab, Arvind Kejriwal has established a firm political foothold, successfully running a full-fledged government in Punjab under party colleague Bhagwant Mann, while also having governed the Union Territory of Delhi for over a decade with a commanding presence in the Assembly.However, the journey of the Aam Aadmi Party has not been limited to Delhi alone. Its steady, often indirect expansion has positioned Kejriwal as an emerging alternative in national politics. He has also made inroads into Gujarat, long considered a bastion of Narendra Modi.In its Gujarat debut, AAP secured over 13 percent of the vote, significantly impacting Congress. In the 2017 Assembly elections, Congress had secured 42.2 percent of the vote, putting up a strong fight against the BJP after Modi’s shift to national politics. However, AAP’s entry in 2022 disrupted that balance, reducing Congress’s vote share to 27.7 percent.While AAP made an impressive debut with around 13 percent votes, the BJP registered only a marginal increase—from about 50 percent to 53 percent.A similar pattern could unfold in Kerala, where AAP may not emerge as a dominant force but could influence the outcome by cutting into Congress’s vote share, potentially benefiting the incumbent Left—much like it did in Gujarat.To increase AAP’s footprint?The AAP, since its birth in 2013 out of Anna movement, has been in a constant effort to expand its footprint across India. So why not Kerala?For Arvind Kejriwal, ambition has never been confined to Delhi. After dismantling the long-standing dominance of Sheila Dikshit, he quickly stepped onto the national stage, taking on Narendra Modi in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. The contest in Varanasi may have ended in defeat, but it marked Kejriwal’s arrival as a major challenger.He secured over 20 percent of the vote, enough to push Congress to a distant third in Varanasi. Its candidate, Ajay Rai, managed only around 7 percent.The Kerala foray, then, is less an outlier and more a continuation of that journey, an attempt to test the party’s reach in the far south.Beyond its strongholds in Delhi and Punjab, AAP has steadily ventured into new political terrains.In Gujarat, it emerged as a significant player with over 13 percent of the vote, largely at Congress’s expense. In Goa, it secured nearly 7 percent and won two seats, once again cutting into Congress’s base.The party has even marked its presence in Jammu and Kashmir, with Mehraj Malik winning from Doda.From the northernmost reaches of J&K to AAP’s a newfound interest in the southern edge of Kerala.Rahul, Priyanka and Tharoor’s KeralaKejriwal’s entry into Kerala carries symbolic weight, especially for Congress, for whom the state has, in recent years, become a crucial political anchor. In moments of crisis, both Gandhi family scions, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, turned to Kerala.In 2019, when Rahul Gandhi lost his very own Amethi seat, it was Wayanad that delivered him a resounding victory. He returned to Wayanad again in 2024, winning comfortably, though he eventually chose to retain Rae Bareli.“I was a stranger to you and yet you believed in me. You embraced me with unbridled love and affection. It didn’t matter which political formation you supported, it didn’t matter which community you were from or which religion you believed in or which language you spoke,” Rahul said.“I am sad, but I am consoled because my sister Priyanka will be there to represent you. I am confident that she will do an excellent job of being your MP if you decide to giver her the opportunity. My central commitment to both you and the people of Rae Bareli is that we will fight and defeat the hatred and violence being spread in the country,” he added.Stepping aside from Wayanad, Rahul Gandhi thanked the electorate and paved the way for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s electoral debut from the same constituency. She went on to secure a resounding victory in the bypolls, further cementing the family’s connection with the state.After her win, Priyanka said, “I thank the people of Wayanad for giving me the honor to represent them.It’s a testament to the fact that my brother worked hard there, their love for him, and their trust in me. I feel it’s a great honor, and I will respect it fully.”Beyond the Gandhis, Kerala is also home to one of Congress’s most prominent national faces, Shashi Tharoor, a three-time MP from Thiruvananthapuram.Against this backdrop, Kejriwal’s Kerala push is not just another electoral experiment, it is a move that could unsettle established equations and complicate the political calculus for the state’s entrenched players.Kejriwal vs Rahul?After the formation of the INDIA bloc, the BJP-led NDA retained power at the Centre, with Rahul Gandhi becoming Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha.While Rahul rose to that position, questions over his leadership ambitions persisted. Within the opposition bloc, differences began surfacing, and AAP’s stance often appeared less aligned with him.AAP, at various points, has attempted to project Kejriwal as a potential national challenger to Narendra Modi, subtly sidelining Rahul Gandhi’s prospects.With repeated electoral setbacks for Congress and AAP’s aggressive expansion, the contest within the opposition space may no longer be just against the BJP, but also among its own key playersAbout the AuthorAbhishek MishraAbhishek Mishra is a Digital Content Producer at The Times of India, working with the news desk. He writes with a keen eye on foreign policy, defence developments, and the shifting currents of geopolitics-and yes, Indian politics always finds a way onto his radar too.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosModi Vs Mamata, Himanta Vs Gogoi: Why Pakistan Features In Bengal, Assam Poll RhetoricKhalistan Call In Canada Falls Flat, Low Turnout Exposes Gap Between Online Noise And Ground Reality’Left-Wing Extremism Not Over Yet’: Anand Ranganathan Warns as Amit Shah Calls India Naxal-Free’War Not A Roadblock’: Iran Envoy Fathali Says Chabahar Port Expansion Will Speed Up Post ConflictMajor Security Breach At Delhi Assembly As Car Rams Gate, Driver And Two Others ArrestedPM Modi Hails BJP Karyakartas for Selfless Service on Party’s Foundation DayMamata Banerjee Targets PM Modi Over Silence On Pak Threat To Kolkata Amid Bengal Elections HeatMumbai Arrests Expose Toy Bomb Terror Plot, Pan-India Sweep Uncovers Radical ModuleIndia’s Kandla Port Breaks All Records At 160 MMT Cargo Despite West Asia Crisis, Aims Bigger TargetBJP MP Trivedi Slams Kharge, Accuses Congress of Dividing India Over Regional Lines123Photostories5 easy meal preps for Indian kitchens to save time during busy weekdaysDifference between Circle Rate and Market Rate in India: What every property buyer must know‘City of God’ to ‘Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi’: Malayalam underrated masterpieces‘Bloodhounds 2’, ‘Perfect Crown’ to ‘The Scarecrow’: K-dramas releasing in April 2026 you can stream on OTT‘Maamla Legal Hai’, ‘Trial By Fire’ to ‘Criminal Justice’: Binge-worthy courtroom dramas to watch on OTTBeyond Aloo Jeera and Rasedar Aloo: 7 aloo ki sabji recipes for the entire weekLionel Messi’s $10.8 million Florida mansion: A perfect blend of luxury, comfort and privacy’Drama’ actress Zendaya’s 5 films to watch on OTT: ‘Challengers’, ‘Dune’ and more5 powerful bathing rituals believed to cleanse energy and uplift your lifeMohammed Shami’s over ₹15 crore expansive farmhouse in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh is all about mango orchards, cricket practice pitches and countryside living123Hot PicksDonald TrumpUpdated IPL Points TableStephen Curry MomSilver Rate TodayHow to Watch KKR vs PBKSPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVenus WilliamsAsian Stocks TodayStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Bengaluru Fake IPL ticketVijaySanju SamsonCongress Puducherry ManifestoSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

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CEC Gyanesh Kumar (File photo) NEW DELHI: The Rajya Sabha chairman CP Radhakrishnan on Monday rejected the impeachment motion against the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, who has been facing opposition’s heat over the pan-India Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and the “conduct” of the recent assembly polls.It was the first time a notice was given seeking removal of the poll body chief, with 130 Lok Sabha MPs and 63 Rajya Sabha members signing the motion.The 10-page-long notice carried a chargesheet on seven counts. The charges ranged from partisan conduct of the CEC to mass disenfranchisement of voters.The opposition had also raised the issue of the way the CEC handled SIR in previous elections like Bihar and forthcoming elections in states like West Bengal; his “proved misbehaviour”; his partial conduct towards a political party are also issues that find a mention in the notice.The notice for removal of the CEC, piloted by TMC, came after growing accusations from opposition parties against Gyanesh Kumar.They accused the CEC of bias and carrying out the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in an arbitrary manner in a bid to aid the BJP.West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has been leading protests over the SIR process in her state. Other opposition parties too have been attacking the CEC, with Rahul Gandhi steering the “vote chori” campaign.BJP leaders had criticised the opposition’s proposal, arguing that political parties should focus on electoral contests instead of targeting the Election Commission.The motion, which stands rejected, required to be passed in Parliament by a special majority, according to parliamentary provisions.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 MediaVideosKhalistan Call In Canada Falls Flat, Low Turnout Exposes Gap Between Online Noise And Ground Reality’Left-Wing Extremism Not Over Yet’: Anand Ranganathan Warns as Amit Shah Calls India Naxal-Free’War Not A Roadblock’: Iran Envoy Fathali Says Chabahar Port Expansion Will Speed Up Post ConflictMajor Security Breach At Delhi Assembly As Car Rams Gate, Driver And Two Others ArrestedPM Modi Hails BJP Karyakartas for Selfless Service on Party’s Foundation DayMamata Banerjee Targets PM Modi Over Silence On Pak Threat To Kolkata Amid Bengal Elections HeatMumbai Arrests Expose Toy Bomb Terror Plot, Pan-India Sweep Uncovers Radical ModuleIndia’s Kandla Port Breaks All Records At 160 MMT Cargo Despite West Asia Crisis, Aims Bigger TargetBJP MP Trivedi Slams Kharge, Accuses Congress of Dividing India Over Regional LinesIran Envoy Backs India’s ‘Strong Diplomacy’, Sees Delhi As Key Mediator As Ships Cross Hormuz Safely123Photostories10 simple ways to respect yourself (Even when no one else does)5 easy meal preps for Indian kitchens to save time during busy weekdaysDifference between Circle Rate and Market Rate in India: What every property buyer must know‘City of God’ to ‘Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi’: Malayalam underrated masterpieces‘Bloodhounds 2’, ‘Perfect Crown’ to ‘The Scarecrow’: K-dramas releasing in April 2026 you can stream on OTT‘Maamla Legal Hai’, ‘Trial By Fire’ to ‘Criminal Justice’: Binge-worthy courtroom dramas to watch on OTTBeyond Aloo Jeera and Rasedar Aloo: 7 aloo ki sabji recipes for the entire weekLionel Messi’s .8 million Florida mansion: A perfect blend of luxury, comfort and privacy’Drama’ actress Zendaya’s 5 films to watch on OTT: ‘Challengers’, ‘Dune’ and more5 powerful bathing rituals believed to cleanse energy and uplift your life123Hot PicksDonald TrumpUpdated IPL Points TableStephen Curry MomSilver Rate TodayHow to Watch KKR vs PBKSPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVenus WilliamsAsian Stocks TodayStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Bengaluru Fake IPL ticketVijaySanju SamsonCongress Puducherry ManifestoSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

CEC Gyanesh Kumar (File photo) NEW DELHI: The Rajya Sabha chairman CP Radhakrishnan on Monday rejected the impeachment motion against the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, who has been facing opposition’s heat over the pan-India Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and the “conduct” of the recent assembly polls.It was the first time a notice was given seeking removal of the poll body chief, with 130 Lok Sabha MPs and 63 Rajya Sabha members signing the motion.The 10-page-long notice carried a chargesheet on seven counts. The charges ranged from partisan conduct of the CEC to mass disenfranchisement of voters.The opposition had also raised the issue of the way the CEC handled SIR in previous elections like Bihar and forthcoming elections in states like West Bengal; his “proved misbehaviour”; his partial conduct towards a political party are also issues that find a mention in the notice.The notice for removal of the CEC, piloted by TMC, came after growing accusations from opposition parties against Gyanesh Kumar.They accused the CEC of bias and carrying out the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in an arbitrary manner in a bid to aid the BJP.West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has been leading protests over the SIR process in her state. Other opposition parties too have been attacking the CEC, with Rahul Gandhi steering the “vote chori” campaign.BJP leaders had criticised the opposition’s proposal, arguing that political parties should focus on electoral contests instead of targeting the Election Commission.The motion, which stands rejected, required to be passed in Parliament by a special majority, according to parliamentary provisions.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 MediaVideosKhalistan Call In Canada Falls Flat, Low Turnout Exposes Gap Between Online Noise And Ground Reality’Left-Wing Extremism Not Over Yet’: Anand Ranganathan Warns as Amit Shah Calls India Naxal-Free’War Not A Roadblock’: Iran Envoy Fathali Says Chabahar Port Expansion Will Speed Up Post ConflictMajor Security Breach At Delhi Assembly As Car Rams Gate, Driver And Two Others ArrestedPM Modi Hails BJP Karyakartas for Selfless Service on Party’s Foundation DayMamata Banerjee Targets PM Modi Over Silence On Pak Threat To Kolkata Amid Bengal Elections HeatMumbai Arrests Expose Toy Bomb Terror Plot, Pan-India Sweep Uncovers Radical ModuleIndia’s Kandla Port Breaks All Records At 160 MMT Cargo Despite West Asia Crisis, Aims Bigger TargetBJP MP Trivedi Slams Kharge, Accuses Congress of Dividing India Over Regional LinesIran Envoy Backs India’s ‘Strong Diplomacy’, Sees Delhi As Key Mediator As Ships Cross Hormuz Safely123Photostories10 simple ways to respect yourself (Even when no one else does)5 easy meal preps for Indian kitchens to save time during busy weekdaysDifference between Circle Rate and Market Rate in India: What every property buyer must know‘City of God’ to ‘Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi’: Malayalam underrated masterpieces‘Bloodhounds 2’, ‘Perfect Crown’ to ‘The Scarecrow’: K-dramas releasing in April 2026 you can stream on OTT‘Maamla Legal Hai’, ‘Trial By Fire’ to ‘Criminal Justice’: Binge-worthy courtroom dramas to watch on OTTBeyond Aloo Jeera and Rasedar Aloo: 7 aloo ki sabji recipes for the entire weekLionel Messi’s $10.8 million Florida mansion: A perfect blend of luxury, comfort and privacy’Drama’ actress Zendaya’s 5 films to watch on OTT: ‘Challengers’, ‘Dune’ and more5 powerful bathing rituals believed to cleanse energy and uplift your life123Hot PicksDonald TrumpUpdated IPL Points TableStephen Curry MomSilver Rate TodayHow to Watch KKR vs PBKSPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVenus WilliamsAsian Stocks TodayStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Bengaluru Fake IPL ticketVijaySanju SamsonCongress Puducherry ManifestoSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

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NEW DELHI: Delhi police on Monday detained three suspects for breaching security at the Delhi Assembly and placing a bouquet and garland in Speaker’s vehicle parked on the porch before fleeing.According to officials, a SUV car bearing an Uttar Pradesh registration number of Pilibhit area, entered the Assembly premises after breaking through the Gate number 2 at around 2pm, triggering a high alert.According to police, the vehicle has been recovered and the detainees are being interrogated.What we know so farThe accused placed a bouquet and a garland inside the official vehicle of the Speaker that was parked in the porch of his office in the Assembly premises, news agency PTI reported, citing sources.Later, the bouquet and the garland were removed and kept near the porch due to suspicion that they may have explosive material, they said.Nothing suspicious was found on the Assembly premises after multiple police teams, along with a bomb disposal squad, conducted a thorough sweep of the area to rule out any threat. “Nothing suspicious was found. However, the forensic teams visited the place twice to understand the sequence of the events and to collect evidence from the spot,” officials said.According to PTI, forensic experts also examined the bouquet.”The entire incident happened very quickly, in just five to seven minutes,” the officer said.”It is too early to comment on the motive behind the entire incident. Our teams are questioning him. Motive is not clear. But we are investigating the entire matter from every possible angle,” a police officer, who requested anonymity, said and mentioned the recent bomb threats sent to the Assembly.Delhi Police Chief Satish Golchha and Special Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Ravindra Yadav also reached the site soon after the incident and supervised the investigation.Yadav said that the police checked CCTV camera footage in and around the area to reconstruct the sequence of events.”Just after the incident and information from the officers about the incident, alerts were flashed to adjoining states and local police stations, with details of the suspected car.”Several barricades and pickets were erected on roads in the entire national capital, and the car was spotted near the Roop Nagar police picket. The car driver was trying to flee by overspeeding, but the alert staff stopped him and detained him,” the officer said.Why the breach happened?According to officials, the car was being driven in a highly reckless manner and was approaching from Delhi University side. The driver took a sharp left turn, rammed the vehicle into the main gate, broke through the boom barriers and entered the Assembly premises.Sources told PTI that, since it is not the main gate, one CRPF personnel was deployed at the gate. The security is relatively less around it when the House is not in session.Gate No. 2 of Delhi Assembly is designated as the VIP gate and is opened only during important events, while Gate No. 1 and the service gate are used for regular access.The police said that the Assembly building has four gates, with Gate 1 being the main entrance gate. Most CRPF personnel are deployed there. Another senior officer said that a total of 22 CRPF personnel and 70 to 80 police personnel are deployed at Vidhan Sabha every day.According to sources, since it is not the main gate, one CRPF personnel was deployed at the gate. The security is relatively less around it when the House is not in session.The incident raised “serious” security concerns, with authorities treating it as a potential “security breach”, a Delhi Secretariat official said.”It is particularly concerning that the car managed to break through a closed gate and remained parked inside the premises for nearly five minutes without raising any alarm,” said Kanchan Azad, Deputy Director, Media head to the Speaker.The incident comes close on the heels of bomb threats received by the Assembly during the recently concluded budget session.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’Left-Wing Extremism Not Over Yet’: Anand Ranganathan Warns as Amit Shah Calls India Naxal-Free’War Not A Roadblock’: Iran Envoy Fathali Says Chabahar Port Expansion Will Speed Up Post ConflictMajor Security Breach At Delhi Assembly As Car Rams Gate, Driver And Two Others ArrestedPM Modi Hails BJP Karyakartas for Selfless Service on Party’s Foundation DayMamata Banerjee Targets PM Modi Over Silence On Pak Threat To Kolkata Amid Bengal Elections HeatMumbai Arrests Expose Toy Bomb Terror Plot, Pan-India Sweep Uncovers Radical ModuleIndia’s Kandla Port Breaks All Records At 160 MMT Cargo Despite West Asia Crisis, Aims Bigger TargetBJP MP Trivedi Slams Kharge, Accuses Congress of Dividing India Over Regional LinesIran Envoy Backs India’s ‘Strong Diplomacy’, Sees Delhi As Key Mediator As Ships Cross Hormuz SafelyGreen Asha Navigates Strait Of Hormuz Safely, Only One LPG Vessel Remains123PhotostoriesDifference between Circle Rate and Market Rate in India: What every property buyer must know‘City of God’ to ‘Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi’: Malayalam underrated masterpieces‘Bloodhounds 2’, ‘Perfect Crown’ to ‘The Scarecrow’: K-dramas releasing in April 2026 you can stream on OTT‘Maamla Legal Hai’, ‘Trial By Fire’ to ‘Criminal Justice’: Binge-worthy courtroom dramas to watch on OTTBeyond Aloo Jeera and Rasedar Aloo: 7 aloo ki sabji recipes for the entire weekLionel Messi’s .8 million Florida mansion: A perfect blend of luxury, comfort and privacy’Drama’ actress Zendaya’s 5 films to watch on OTT: ‘Challengers’, ‘Dune’ and more5 powerful bathing rituals believed to cleanse energy and uplift your lifeMohammed Shami’s over ₹15 crore expansive farmhouse in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh is all about mango orchards, cricket practice pitches and countryside livingMogra to menswear: Alia Bhatt’s monochrome weekend served two iconic fashion moods123Hot PicksDonald TrumpUpdated IPL Points TableStephen Curry MomSilver Rate TodayHow to Watch KKR vs PBKSPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVenus WilliamsAsian Stocks TodayStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Bengaluru Fake IPL ticketVijaySanju SamsonCongress Puducherry ManifestoSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

NEW DELHI: Delhi police on Monday detained three suspects for breaching security at the Delhi Assembly and placing a bouquet and garland in Speaker’s vehicle parked on the porch before fleeing.According to officials, a SUV car bearing an Uttar Pradesh registration number of Pilibhit area, entered the Assembly premises after breaking through the Gate number 2 at around 2pm, triggering a high alert.According to police, the vehicle has been recovered and the detainees are being interrogated.What we know so farThe accused placed a bouquet and a garland inside the official vehicle of the Speaker that was parked in the porch of his office in the Assembly premises, news agency PTI reported, citing sources.Later, the bouquet and the garland were removed and kept near the porch due to suspicion that they may have explosive material, they said.Nothing suspicious was found on the Assembly premises after multiple police teams, along with a bomb disposal squad, conducted a thorough sweep of the area to rule out any threat. “Nothing suspicious was found. However, the forensic teams visited the place twice to understand the sequence of the events and to collect evidence from the spot,” officials said.According to PTI, forensic experts also examined the bouquet.”The entire incident happened very quickly, in just five to seven minutes,” the officer said.”It is too early to comment on the motive behind the entire incident. Our teams are questioning him. Motive is not clear. But we are investigating the entire matter from every possible angle,” a police officer, who requested anonymity, said and mentioned the recent bomb threats sent to the Assembly.Delhi Police Chief Satish Golchha and Special Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Ravindra Yadav also reached the site soon after the incident and supervised the investigation.Yadav said that the police checked CCTV camera footage in and around the area to reconstruct the sequence of events.”Just after the incident and information from the officers about the incident, alerts were flashed to adjoining states and local police stations, with details of the suspected car.”Several barricades and pickets were erected on roads in the entire national capital, and the car was spotted near the Roop Nagar police picket. The car driver was trying to flee by overspeeding, but the alert staff stopped him and detained him,” the officer said.Why the breach happened?According to officials, the car was being driven in a highly reckless manner and was approaching from Delhi University side. The driver took a sharp left turn, rammed the vehicle into the main gate, broke through the boom barriers and entered the Assembly premises.Sources told PTI that, since it is not the main gate, one CRPF personnel was deployed at the gate. The security is relatively less around it when the House is not in session.Gate No. 2 of Delhi Assembly is designated as the VIP gate and is opened only during important events, while Gate No. 1 and the service gate are used for regular access.The police said that the Assembly building has four gates, with Gate 1 being the main entrance gate. Most CRPF personnel are deployed there. Another senior officer said that a total of 22 CRPF personnel and 70 to 80 police personnel are deployed at Vidhan Sabha every day.According to sources, since it is not the main gate, one CRPF personnel was deployed at the gate. The security is relatively less around it when the House is not in session.The incident raised “serious” security concerns, with authorities treating it as a potential “security breach”, a Delhi Secretariat official said.”It is particularly concerning that the car managed to break through a closed gate and remained parked inside the premises for nearly five minutes without raising any alarm,” said Kanchan Azad, Deputy Director, Media head to the Speaker.The incident comes close on the heels of bomb threats received by the Assembly during the recently concluded budget session.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’Left-Wing Extremism Not Over Yet’: Anand Ranganathan Warns as Amit Shah Calls India Naxal-Free’War Not A Roadblock’: Iran Envoy Fathali Says Chabahar Port Expansion Will Speed Up Post ConflictMajor Security Breach At Delhi Assembly As Car Rams Gate, Driver And Two Others ArrestedPM Modi Hails BJP Karyakartas for Selfless Service on Party’s Foundation DayMamata Banerjee Targets PM Modi Over Silence On Pak Threat To Kolkata Amid Bengal Elections HeatMumbai Arrests Expose Toy Bomb Terror Plot, Pan-India Sweep Uncovers Radical ModuleIndia’s Kandla Port Breaks All Records At 160 MMT Cargo Despite West Asia Crisis, Aims Bigger TargetBJP MP Trivedi Slams Kharge, Accuses Congress of Dividing India Over Regional LinesIran Envoy Backs India’s ‘Strong Diplomacy’, Sees Delhi As Key Mediator As Ships Cross Hormuz SafelyGreen Asha Navigates Strait Of Hormuz Safely, Only One LPG Vessel Remains123PhotostoriesDifference between Circle Rate and Market Rate in India: What every property buyer must know‘City of God’ to ‘Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi’: Malayalam underrated masterpieces‘Bloodhounds 2’, ‘Perfect Crown’ to ‘The Scarecrow’: K-dramas releasing in April 2026 you can stream on OTT‘Maamla Legal Hai’, ‘Trial By Fire’ to ‘Criminal Justice’: Binge-worthy courtroom dramas to watch on OTTBeyond Aloo Jeera and Rasedar Aloo: 7 aloo ki sabji recipes for the entire weekLionel Messi’s $10.8 million Florida mansion: A perfect blend of luxury, comfort and privacy’Drama’ actress Zendaya’s 5 films to watch on OTT: ‘Challengers’, ‘Dune’ and more5 powerful bathing rituals believed to cleanse energy and uplift your lifeMohammed Shami’s over ₹15 crore expansive farmhouse in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh is all about mango orchards, cricket practice pitches and countryside livingMogra to menswear: Alia Bhatt’s monochrome weekend served two iconic fashion moods123Hot PicksDonald TrumpUpdated IPL Points TableStephen Curry MomSilver Rate TodayHow to Watch KKR vs PBKSPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVenus WilliamsAsian Stocks TodayStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Bengaluru Fake IPL ticketVijaySanju SamsonCongress Puducherry ManifestoSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

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Delhi Police arrested a suspect after a Tata Sierra breached barricades and entered the Delhi Assembly premises, briefly triggering a security scare. No bomb-like object was found as police also released the first image of the suspect.Israel said it killed IRGC intelligence chief Majid Khademi in strikes on Tehran, as the Middle East war entered day 38 and tensions with Iran deepened.India’s government eased LPG access for migrants, students and daily wagers by allowing 5kg free trade cylinders without address proof. It only requires a valid ID and self-declaration.AAP MP Raghav Chadha posted a cryptic Instagram message with a book’s chapter titled “Never outshine the master,” as he said, “Some books find you at the right time,” hinting at his rift with party leadership after being removed as Rajya Sabha deputy leader.Kevin Pietersen revealed his IPL priority over England duties in the 2000s caused a fallout with the ECB, costing him his career and preventing him from playing over 150 Tests despite 104 played.Here are the top 5 updates for the day: Police nab suspect who rammed into Delhi Assembly; no bomb-like object foundA Tata Sierra with a UP registration number broke through the barricades of the Delhi Assembly and entered the premises through Gate no 2. A man got out, placed a bouquet near speaker Vijender Gupta’s office and was able to drive away despite the attempt to intercept the car. “The driver proceeded towards the office of Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta and placed a flower bouquet near the porch before retreating,” said a Delhi Secretariat official.Police later arrested the suspect, seized the car and said that no bomb-like object was found.Read the full story Watch Major Security Breach At Delhi Assembly As Car Rams Gate, Driver And Two Others Arrested IRGC intelligence chief Majid Khademi killed in US-Israeli strikesIsrael announced that it killed Majid Khademi, head of intelligence for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, in strikes on Tehran. Israeli defence minister Israel Katz said Israel would keep targeting Iranian leaders and infrastructure, while the IRGC confirmed Khademi’s death. The attack came as the Middle East war entered day 38 and fighting escalated further.Read the full storySourcing LPG cylinders now easy for students, daily wage earnersTo aid migrant workers, students and daily wage earners, the government has now permitted 5kg free trade LPG cylinders. This means obtaining a 5kg LPG cylinder would not require address proof. The user is only required to possess a valid ID and self-declaration for domestic use. LPG Distributors Federation President Chandra Prakash hailed the move, while the petroleum ministry noted surging DAC-based deliveries at 90% and over 6.6 lakh cylinders sold since March 23.Read the full storyRaghav Chadha shares cryptic Instagram post amid rift with AAP leadershipAmid tensions with AAP leadership, MP Raghav Chadha shared an Instagram post about “The 48 Laws of Power” book being gifted to him. He highlighted the first chapter of the book titled “Never outshine the master.” Sharing the image he wrote, “Somebody gifted me a book this week. Funny how timing works. The timing is hard to ignore. I turned to chapter 1 – ‘Never outshine the master’. Some books arrive exactly when they are meant to.”This follows his removal as Rajya Sabha deputy leader last week, with party leaders accusing him of deviating from the line and avoiding key opposition moves.Read the full story‘I lost my career’ because of IPL, claims former RCB and England starFormer England captain Kevin Pietersen said prioritising IPL in the late 2000s led to an ECB backlash that ended his international career prematurely at age 33 after 104 Tests. He said that he regretted missing 150-160 matches. However, he added that his sacrifice then enabled today’s English players like Jos Buttler to freely join franchise leagues.“I interviewed Jos Buttler a few days ago, and he also said ‘thank you’. Because of all the sacrifices I had made, these guys can have the fruits now,” he revealed.Read the full storyAbout 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 MediaVideosMajor Security Breach At Delhi Assembly As Car Rams Gate, Driver And Two Others ArrestedPM Modi Hails BJP Karyakartas for Selfless Service on Party’s Foundation DayMamata Banerjee Targets PM Modi Over Silence On Pak Threat To Kolkata Amid Bengal Elections HeatMumbai Arrests Expose Toy Bomb Terror Plot, Pan-India Sweep Uncovers Radical ModuleIndia’s Kandla Port Breaks All Records At 160 MMT Cargo Despite West Asia Crisis, Aims Bigger TargetBJP MP Trivedi Slams Kharge, Accuses Congress of Dividing India Over Regional LinesIran Envoy Backs India’s ‘Strong Diplomacy’, Sees Delhi As Key Mediator As Ships Cross Hormuz SafelyGreen Asha Navigates Strait Of Hormuz Safely, Only One LPG Vessel RemainsIran FM Araghchi Calls Jaishankar As Hormuz Tensions SpikeDRDO Begins Work On Next-Generation Missile To Replace Prithvi Series : Reports123Photostories‘Bloodhounds 2’, ‘Perfect Crown’ to ‘The Scarecrow’: K-dramas releasing in April 2026 you can stream on OTT‘Maamla Legal Hai’, ‘Trial By Fire’ to ‘Criminal Justice’: Binge-worthy courtroom dramas to watch on OTTBeyond Aloo Jeera and Rasedar Aloo: 7 aloo ki sabji recipes for the entire weekLionel Messi’s .8 million Florida mansion: A perfect blend of luxury, comfort and privacy’Drama’ actress Zendaya’s 5 films to watch on OTT: ‘Challengers’, ‘Dune’ and more5 powerful bathing rituals believed to cleanse energy and uplift your lifeMohammed Shami’s over ₹15 crore expansive farmhouse in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh is all about mango orchards, cricket practice pitches and countryside livingMogra to menswear: Alia Bhatt’s monochrome weekend served two iconic fashion moodsMega push for Prayagraj metro: 60km plan with airport, Sangam stops“PM Modi taught me how to make Sabudana Khichdi”: The story of this comforting meal and 6 ways to make it123Hot PicksDonald TrumpUpdated IPL Points TableStephen Curry MomSilver Rate TodayHow to Watch KKR vs PBKSPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVenus WilliamsAsian Stocks TodayStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Bengaluru Fake IPL ticketVijaySanju SamsonCongress Puducherry ManifestoSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

Delhi Police arrested a suspect after a Tata Sierra breached barricades and entered the Delhi Assembly premises, briefly triggering a security scare. No bomb-like object was found as police also released the first image of the suspect.Israel said it killed IRGC intelligence chief Majid Khademi in strikes on Tehran, as the Middle East war entered day 38 and tensions with Iran deepened.India’s government eased LPG access for migrants, students and daily wagers by allowing 5kg free trade cylinders without address proof. It only requires a valid ID and self-declaration.AAP MP Raghav Chadha posted a cryptic Instagram message with a book’s chapter titled “Never outshine the master,” as he said, “Some books find you at the right time,” hinting at his rift with party leadership after being removed as Rajya Sabha deputy leader.Kevin Pietersen revealed his IPL priority over England duties in the 2000s caused a fallout with the ECB, costing him his career and preventing him from playing over 150 Tests despite 104 played.Here are the top 5 updates for the day: Police nab suspect who rammed into Delhi Assembly; no bomb-like object foundA Tata Sierra with a UP registration number broke through the barricades of the Delhi Assembly and entered the premises through Gate no 2. A man got out, placed a bouquet near speaker Vijender Gupta’s office and was able to drive away despite the attempt to intercept the car. “The driver proceeded towards the office of Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta and placed a flower bouquet near the porch before retreating,” said a Delhi Secretariat official.Police later arrested the suspect, seized the car and said that no bomb-like object was found.Read the full story Watch Major Security Breach At Delhi Assembly As Car Rams Gate, Driver And Two Others Arrested IRGC intelligence chief Majid Khademi killed in US-Israeli strikesIsrael announced that it killed Majid Khademi, head of intelligence for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, in strikes on Tehran. Israeli defence minister Israel Katz said Israel would keep targeting Iranian leaders and infrastructure, while the IRGC confirmed Khademi’s death. The attack came as the Middle East war entered day 38 and fighting escalated further.Read the full storySourcing LPG cylinders now easy for students, daily wage earnersTo aid migrant workers, students and daily wage earners, the government has now permitted 5kg free trade LPG cylinders. This means obtaining a 5kg LPG cylinder would not require address proof. The user is only required to possess a valid ID and self-declaration for domestic use. LPG Distributors Federation President Chandra Prakash hailed the move, while the petroleum ministry noted surging DAC-based deliveries at 90% and over 6.6 lakh cylinders sold since March 23.Read the full storyRaghav Chadha shares cryptic Instagram post amid rift with AAP leadershipAmid tensions with AAP leadership, MP Raghav Chadha shared an Instagram post about “The 48 Laws of Power” book being gifted to him. He highlighted the first chapter of the book titled “Never outshine the master.” Sharing the image he wrote, “Somebody gifted me a book this week. Funny how timing works. The timing is hard to ignore. I turned to chapter 1 – ‘Never outshine the master’. Some books arrive exactly when they are meant to.”This follows his removal as Rajya Sabha deputy leader last week, with party leaders accusing him of deviating from the line and avoiding key opposition moves.Read the full story‘I lost my career’ because of IPL, claims former RCB and England starFormer England captain Kevin Pietersen said prioritising IPL in the late 2000s led to an ECB backlash that ended his international career prematurely at age 33 after 104 Tests. He said that he regretted missing 150-160 matches. However, he added that his sacrifice then enabled today’s English players like Jos Buttler to freely join franchise leagues.“I interviewed Jos Buttler a few days ago, and he also said ‘thank you’. Because of all the sacrifices I had made, these guys can have the fruits now,” he revealed.Read the full storyAbout 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 MediaVideosMajor Security Breach At Delhi Assembly As Car Rams Gate, Driver And Two Others ArrestedPM Modi Hails BJP Karyakartas for Selfless Service on Party’s Foundation DayMamata Banerjee Targets PM Modi Over Silence On Pak Threat To Kolkata Amid Bengal Elections HeatMumbai Arrests Expose Toy Bomb Terror Plot, Pan-India Sweep Uncovers Radical ModuleIndia’s Kandla Port Breaks All Records At 160 MMT Cargo Despite West Asia Crisis, Aims Bigger TargetBJP MP Trivedi Slams Kharge, Accuses Congress of Dividing India Over Regional LinesIran Envoy Backs India’s ‘Strong Diplomacy’, Sees Delhi As Key Mediator As Ships Cross Hormuz SafelyGreen Asha Navigates Strait Of Hormuz Safely, Only One LPG Vessel RemainsIran FM Araghchi Calls Jaishankar As Hormuz Tensions SpikeDRDO Begins Work On Next-Generation Missile To Replace Prithvi Series : Reports123Photostories‘Bloodhounds 2’, ‘Perfect Crown’ to ‘The Scarecrow’: K-dramas releasing in April 2026 you can stream on OTT‘Maamla Legal Hai’, ‘Trial By Fire’ to ‘Criminal Justice’: Binge-worthy courtroom dramas to watch on OTTBeyond Aloo Jeera and Rasedar Aloo: 7 aloo ki sabji recipes for the entire weekLionel Messi’s $10.8 million Florida mansion: A perfect blend of luxury, comfort and privacy’Drama’ actress Zendaya’s 5 films to watch on OTT: ‘Challengers’, ‘Dune’ and more5 powerful bathing rituals believed to cleanse energy and uplift your lifeMohammed Shami’s over ₹15 crore expansive farmhouse in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh is all about mango orchards, cricket practice pitches and countryside livingMogra to menswear: Alia Bhatt’s monochrome weekend served two iconic fashion moodsMega push for Prayagraj metro: 60km plan with airport, Sangam stops“PM Modi taught me how to make Sabudana Khichdi”: The story of this comforting meal and 6 ways to make it123Hot PicksDonald TrumpUpdated IPL Points TableStephen Curry MomSilver Rate TodayHow to Watch KKR vs PBKSPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVenus WilliamsAsian Stocks TodayStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Bengaluru Fake IPL ticketVijaySanju SamsonCongress Puducherry ManifestoSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

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