April 6, 2026

NEW DELHI: External affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar held a phone conversation with Iran’s foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday, to discuss regional developments and concerns over shipping security in the region. In a post on X EAM later described the talks as detailed and said both sides agreed to remain in touch. Modi Meets Jaishankar, Puri As India Secures Energy Routes Amid Iran War “A detailed conversation this evening with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi of Iran on the latest developments regarding the ongoing conflict. We agreed to remain in touch.”Later, Iran’s foreign ministry in a statement on Wednesday gave details of the phone call between both ministers. .In a post on X, the ministry of foreign affairs of Iran said: “Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of India, held a phone conversation with Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, during which they discussed regional developments.” Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: UAE embassy in Iraq attacked, Hezbollah drones target IsraelMiddle East war enters day 12 as US, Israel unleash ‘heaviest strikes’ on Iran as Tehran rules out ceasefireIndian shops, restaurants in UK’s Wembley vandalised in targeted attacksAccording to the statement, the two ministers also discussed the impact of the ongoing conflict on maritime traffic through the key waterway that links the Persian Gulf with global shipping routes.“The foreign ministers of Iran and India also discussed the consequences of the US and Israeli regime’s military aggression on the security of shipping and vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz,” the Iranian foreign ministry said.During the call, Araghchi detailed the attack by the United States and Israel on Iran over the past 11 days, including the missile attack on a girls’ elementary school, which killed over 100 girls, and civilian sites and public service centers. “In this telephone conversation, Iran’s Foreign Minister detailed the crimes committed by the United States and the Israeli regime against the Iranian nation over the past 11 days, including the missile attack on a girls’ elementary school in Minab on the first day of the war and subsequent widespread attacks on civilian sites and public service centers. He emphasized Iran’s determination to comprehensively defend the integrity of Iran,” the post added. He said such actions violated international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. The Iranian minister also referred to what he called Iran’s “principled approach to safeguarding shipping security in the Persian Gulf,” adding that instability affecting maritime traffic in the region was the result of “aggressive and destabilising actions of the United States.”Jaishankar, according to the statement, emphasised the importance of continuing and strengthening bilateral relations between India and Iran, and stressed the need for continued consultations aimed at restoring stability in the region.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 MediaVideosModi Meets Jaishankar, Puri As India Secures Energy Routes Amid Iran WarUAE Ambassador Slams Tehran Strikes, Says India’s Voice ‘Carries Weight’ In West Asia‘Iran’s New Leader Won’t Live In Peace’, Says Trump; Tehran warns ‘Beware, Lest You Be Eliminated’’Om Birla Perfected Art Of Turning Off Microphones Of Oppn MPs’: Explosive Mahua Moitra In Lok SabhaPost-Operation Sindoor, India Formalises Its Military Transformation Blueprint With Vision 2047’There’s Only One Leader Who…’: Priyanka’s Counter-Attack On Rijiju’s ‘Hug And Wink’ Dig At RahulAsaduddin Owaisi Questions Legality Of Speaker Role During No-Confidence Motion In Lok SabhaGaurav Gogoi Targets Kiren Rijiju Over Interruptions, Amit Shah Hits Back With ‘Irresponsible’ Jibe’Is Rahul Gandhi Above Speaker?’ Kiren Rijiju Slams Opposition During Motion Against Om BirlaCentre Invokes Essential Commodities Act To Regulate LPG Supply Amid Iran War123PhotostoriesBaby names for boy born on Wednesday5 vegetarian foods packed with more protein than meatHow to grow strawberries in balcony gardenWant a better job and increment? 5 ways to get promoted at work – And how to avoid a ‘dry promotion’Earth “rang like a bell” for 9 days: Scientists trace the eerie signal to a Greenland megatsunamiColon cancer is rising in younger adults: Doctors explain how sedentary lifestyles, poor bowel habits and diet increase risk and the daily habits that help prevent itMeet Marta Ortega Pérez: The billionaire heiress redefining the Zara empireHow to make Street-Style Chowmein at home10 countries with the most cultural influence in the worldLPG Gas Cylinder Shortage: 7 popular gas-stove dishes you can make in a microwave123Hot PicksIT rulesUAE Travel AlertUCC gender biasCovid vaccine compensation policyIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIran War Impact on IndiaParliament Budget SessionUS Strike on Iran OilBengal assembly electionsUS military strikes IranSwitzerland bus fireIran WarBrain dead womenBhadreshkumar PatelTexas visa fraud

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
NEW DELHI: External affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar held a phone conversation with Iran’s foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday, to discuss regional developments and concerns over shipping security in the region. In a post on X EAM later described the talks as detailed and said both sides agreed to remain in touch. Modi Meets Jaishankar, Puri As India Secures Energy Routes Amid Iran War “A detailed conversation this evening with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi of Iran on the latest developments regarding the ongoing conflict. We agreed to remain in touch.”Later, Iran’s foreign ministry in a statement on Wednesday gave details of the phone call between both ministers. .In a post on X, the ministry of foreign affairs of Iran said: “Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of India, held a phone conversation with Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, during which they discussed regional developments.” Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: UAE embassy in Iraq attacked, Hezbollah drones target IsraelMiddle East war enters day 12 as US, Israel unleash ‘heaviest strikes’ on Iran as Tehran rules out ceasefireIndian shops, restaurants in UK’s Wembley vandalised in targeted attacksAccording to the statement, the two ministers also discussed the impact of the ongoing conflict on maritime traffic through the key waterway that links the Persian Gulf with global shipping routes.“The foreign ministers of Iran and India also discussed the consequences of the US and Israeli regime’s military aggression on the security of shipping and vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz,” the Iranian foreign ministry said.During the call, Araghchi detailed the attack by the United States and Israel on Iran over the past 11 days, including the missile attack on a girls’ elementary school, which killed over 100 girls, and civilian sites and public service centers. “In this telephone conversation, Iran’s Foreign Minister detailed the crimes committed by the United States and the Israeli regime against the Iranian nation over the past 11 days, including the missile attack on a girls’ elementary school in Minab on the first day of the war and subsequent widespread attacks on civilian sites and public service centers. He emphasized Iran’s determination to comprehensively defend the integrity of Iran,” the post added. He said such actions violated international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. The Iranian minister also referred to what he called Iran’s “principled approach to safeguarding shipping security in the Persian Gulf,” adding that instability affecting maritime traffic in the region was the result of “aggressive and destabilising actions of the United States.”Jaishankar, according to the statement, emphasised the importance of continuing and strengthening bilateral relations between India and Iran, and stressed the need for continued consultations aimed at restoring stability in the region.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 MediaVideosModi Meets Jaishankar, Puri As India Secures Energy Routes Amid Iran WarUAE Ambassador Slams Tehran Strikes, Says India’s Voice ‘Carries Weight’ In West Asia‘Iran’s New Leader Won’t Live In Peace’, Says Trump; Tehran warns ‘Beware, Lest You Be Eliminated’’Om Birla Perfected Art Of Turning Off Microphones Of Oppn MPs’: Explosive Mahua Moitra In Lok SabhaPost-Operation Sindoor, India Formalises Its Military Transformation Blueprint With Vision 2047’There’s Only One Leader Who…’: Priyanka’s Counter-Attack On Rijiju’s ‘Hug And Wink’ Dig At RahulAsaduddin Owaisi Questions Legality Of Speaker Role During No-Confidence Motion In Lok SabhaGaurav Gogoi Targets Kiren Rijiju Over Interruptions, Amit Shah Hits Back With ‘Irresponsible’ Jibe’Is Rahul Gandhi Above Speaker?’ Kiren Rijiju Slams Opposition During Motion Against Om BirlaCentre Invokes Essential Commodities Act To Regulate LPG Supply Amid Iran War123PhotostoriesBaby names for boy born on Wednesday5 vegetarian foods packed with more protein than meatHow to grow strawberries in balcony gardenWant a better job and increment? 5 ways to get promoted at work – And how to avoid a ‘dry promotion’Earth “rang like a bell” for 9 days: Scientists trace the eerie signal to a Greenland megatsunamiColon cancer is rising in younger adults: Doctors explain how sedentary lifestyles, poor bowel habits and diet increase risk and the daily habits that help prevent itMeet Marta Ortega Pérez: The billionaire heiress redefining the Zara empireHow to make Street-Style Chowmein at home10 countries with the most cultural influence in the worldLPG Gas Cylinder Shortage: 7 popular gas-stove dishes you can make in a microwave123Hot PicksIT rulesUAE Travel AlertUCC gender biasCovid vaccine compensation policyIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIran War Impact on IndiaParliament Budget SessionUS Strike on Iran OilBengal assembly electionsUS military strikes IranSwitzerland bus fireIran WarBrain dead womenBhadreshkumar PatelTexas visa fraud


Middle East crisis: Jaishankar holds 'detailed conversation' with Iranian foreign minister Araghchi

NEW DELHI: External affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar held a phone conversation with Iran’s foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday, to discuss regional developments and concerns over shipping security in the region. In a post on X EAM later described the talks as detailed and said both sides agreed to remain in touch.

Modi Meets Jaishankar, Puri As India Secures Energy Routes Amid Iran War

“A detailed conversation this evening with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi of Iran on the latest developments regarding the ongoing conflict. We agreed to remain in touch.”Later, Iran’s foreign ministry in a statement on Wednesday gave details of the phone call between both ministers. .In a post on X, the ministry of foreign affairs of Iran said: “Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of India, held a phone conversation with Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, during which they discussed regional developments.” According to the statement, the two ministers also discussed the impact of the ongoing conflict on maritime traffic through the key waterway that links the Persian Gulf with global shipping routes.“The foreign ministers of Iran and India also discussed the consequences of the US and Israeli regime’s military aggression on the security of shipping and vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz,” the Iranian foreign ministry said.During the call, Araghchi detailed the attack by the United States and Israel on Iran over the past 11 days, including the missile attack on a girls’ elementary school, which killed over 100 girls, and civilian sites and public service centers. “In this telephone conversation, Iran’s Foreign Minister detailed the crimes committed by the United States and the Israeli regime against the Iranian nation over the past 11 days, including the missile attack on a girls’ elementary school in Minab on the first day of the war and subsequent widespread attacks on civilian sites and public service centers. He emphasized Iran’s determination to comprehensively defend the integrity of Iran,” the post added. He said such actions violated international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. The Iranian minister also referred to what he called Iran’s “principled approach to safeguarding shipping security in the Persian Gulf,” adding that instability affecting maritime traffic in the region was the result of “aggressive and destabilising actions of the United States.”Jaishankar, according to the statement, emphasised the importance of continuing and strengthening bilateral relations between India and Iran, and stressed the need for continued consultations aimed at restoring stability in the region.



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NEW DELHI: Rajya Sabha chairman CP Radhakrishnan on Monday rejected the opposition’s impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.It was the first time a notice seeking the removal of the Election Commission chief was issued with the signature of 130 Lok Sabha MPs and 63 Rajya Sabha members.The 10-page impeachment motion accused Gyanesh Kumar of seven counts. The charges ranged from partisan conduct of the CEC to mass disenfranchisement of voters in different states. This comes after the poll body faced opposition over the pan-India purification of the electoral roll — Special Intensive Revision (SIR).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 the 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.’Told you so’After the motion got rejected, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh took a swipe at vice-president Radhakrishnan, reminding him of his predecessor Jagdeep Dhankhar’s episode, where he resigned hours after accepting a motion seeking the removal of justice Yashwant Varma.”We know what happened to the last Chairman of the Rajya Sabha who accepted a petition moved by Opposition MPs,” Jairam Ramesh, in a social media post, said.TMC MP Derek O’Brien also attacked the centre and accused it of “mocking” the Parliamentary system.”Ah! Told you so,” he said in a social media post on X.”Notice to remove CEC Vanish Kumar by Rajya Sabha MPs rejected. Reason? NO REASON GIVEN. BJP keep mocking our great Parliament. SHAME,” he added.What can opposition do next?After the rejection of the motion, the opposition has options, although limited.The removal process follows the procedure laid down in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968. The opposition can refile the motion in the Lok Sabha. The process will restart with the Speaker’s admission decision, as motions originate independently in either House.Additionally, the opposition can also consider moving the Supreme Court. It can build “moral pressure” on CEC Gyanesh Kumar that he would step aside from his post if an petition was moved against him in the apex court.In 2018, Congress had challenged the rejection of then CJI Dipak Misra’s impeachment by then Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu.Congress leader and senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, who was also a signatory to the impeachment notice, raised the case for urgent listing before a bench.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‘Jointness To Theatre Commands Is Not Simple’: Lt Gen PJS Pannu On India’s Military ReformsModi 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 Target123Photostories10 rare and extraordinary animals you will only find in KenyaBTS concert moments that broke the internet: From Wembley to the Love Yourself tour5 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 more123Hot 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: Rajya Sabha chairman CP Radhakrishnan on Monday rejected the opposition’s impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.It was the first time a notice seeking the removal of the Election Commission chief was issued with the signature of 130 Lok Sabha MPs and 63 Rajya Sabha members.The 10-page impeachment motion accused Gyanesh Kumar of seven counts. The charges ranged from partisan conduct of the CEC to mass disenfranchisement of voters in different states. This comes after the poll body faced opposition over the pan-India purification of the electoral roll — Special Intensive Revision (SIR).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 the 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.’Told you so’After the motion got rejected, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh took a swipe at vice-president Radhakrishnan, reminding him of his predecessor Jagdeep Dhankhar’s episode, where he resigned hours after accepting a motion seeking the removal of justice Yashwant Varma.”We know what happened to the last Chairman of the Rajya Sabha who accepted a petition moved by Opposition MPs,” Jairam Ramesh, in a social media post, said.TMC MP Derek O’Brien also attacked the centre and accused it of “mocking” the Parliamentary system.”Ah! Told you so,” he said in a social media post on X.”Notice to remove CEC Vanish Kumar by Rajya Sabha MPs rejected. Reason? NO REASON GIVEN. BJP keep mocking our great Parliament. SHAME,” he added.What can opposition do next?After the rejection of the motion, the opposition has options, although limited.The removal process follows the procedure laid down in the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968. The opposition can refile the motion in the Lok Sabha. The process will restart with the Speaker’s admission decision, as motions originate independently in either House.Additionally, the opposition can also consider moving the Supreme Court. It can build “moral pressure” on CEC Gyanesh Kumar that he would step aside from his post if an petition was moved against him in the apex court.In 2018, Congress had challenged the rejection of then CJI Dipak Misra’s impeachment by then Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu.Congress leader and senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, who was also a signatory to the impeachment notice, raised the case for urgent listing before a bench.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‘Jointness To Theatre Commands Is Not Simple’: Lt Gen PJS Pannu On India’s Military ReformsModi 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 Target123Photostories10 rare and extraordinary animals you will only find in KenyaBTS concert moments that broke the internet: From Wembley to the Love Yourself tour5 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 more123Hot 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

Vamsikrishna 0
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 .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

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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