May 21, 2026
The new Rajya Sabha is 1.5 times larger than the old Rajya Sabha. Inspired by the traditional red tint of the Upper House, the leitmotif here is the lotus, India’s national flower. Monday’s Rajya Sabha elections did more than just fill a handful of Upper House vacancies. They told a familiar political story in a fresh setting, one where numbers, not noise, determine outcomes.Absentee legislators in Bihar cost the opposition a seat it should have won. Cross-voting in Odisha rewrote a settled arithmetic. And in Haryana, invalid ballots and defections turned what should have been a straightforward contest into a midnight cliffhanger. Watch NDA Victory in Rajya Sabha Polls Triggers War Of Words As Opposition Split Widens In Bihar Individually, these may appear as state-specific disruptions. Taken together, they underline a deeper and more enduring pattern. The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) growing “mastery” over the Rajya Sabha’s numbers game, and the opposition’s continuing inability to hold its ranks when it matters most.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Israel pounds Tehran as Iranians mark Nowruz; UAE, Kuwait defences respond to missile barrageTrump Rules Out Ceasefire: says US nears Iran war goals; signals wider military options’Enemy has been defeated’: Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei claims victory over US, IsraelThis is not a new story. It has been unfolding, quietly but decisively, since 2014.The Upper House paradoxWhen the BJP swept to power in 2014 with a decisive majority in the Lok Sabha, it did not carry that dominance into the Rajya Sabha. The Upper House, by design, is insulated from electoral waves. Its members are elected by state assemblies, and their terms are staggered, ensuring continuity and preventing sudden shifts.This meant that even as the BJP commanded brute strength in the Lower House, it remained a minority in the Upper House for years. That imbalance mattered! Composition of Rajya Sabha Unlike the Lok Sabha, where a majority can push legislation through with relative ease, the Rajya Sabha demands negotiation, persuasion and, at times, political ingenuity. For the BJP, this became both a constraint and an opportunity. A constraint because it could not legislate unilaterally, and an opportunity because it forced the party to develop a different kind of political playbook.The slow climbFrom 2014 onwards, the BJP began a steady climb in the Rajya Sabha through a mix of electoral expansion and strategic positioning. Each state election victory translated, over time, into incremental gains in the Upper House.States like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Assam and later parts of the Northeast became critical to this expansion. But no state illustrates this mechanism better than Uttar Pradesh.With 403 MLAs, Uttar Pradesh is the single biggest contributor to the Rajya Sabha, sending 31 members. After the BJP’s sweeping victory in the 2017 assembly elections, it dramatically improved its Upper House numbers through successive election cycles.This is the core mechanic of the Rajya Sabha, which mandates political parties to control state assemblies, and over time, it leads to the reshaping of the composition of the Upper House in favour of the party with most numbers of seats in the state assemblies.Yet, even as the BJP’s numbers improved, it still did not consistently cross the majority mark on its own. And still, legislation kept moving. Non-NDA support for BJP How Rajya Sabha election really worksRajya Sabha elections are not direct. MLAs vote using proportional representation through the single transferable vote (STV) system. Rajya Sabha formula And this is where the system becomes politically sensitive.A handful of cross-votes, a few abstentions, or even incorrectly marked ballots can flip outcomes. The events in Bihar, Odisha and Haryana this week demonstrate just how fragile and fluid these calculations can be.The heart of this system lies in a deceptively simple formula.An Uttar Pradesh Example: How votes are calculated in Rajya Sabha Managing the numbers: The BJP playbookOver the past decade, the BJP has demonstrated a consistent ability to navigate the complexities of the Rajya Sabha’s numbers game, relying not on a single strategy but on a “combination of approaches” that together create a working majority even without a formal one. A key pillar of this has been the steady expansion of its electoral base, with victories in state assemblies translating into incremental gains in the Upper House over time. Where it has fallen short, the party has built tactical, often issue-based understandings with regional players such as the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) and AIADMK, whose support, though not always formal, has proved decisive in crucial votes. Non-NDA support for BJP At the same time, the BJP has benefited from cross-voting and dissidence within opposition ranks, a recurring feature of Rajya Sabha elections that has tilted outcomes in its favour, as seen in the recent Odisha contest. The party has also shown flexibility in candidate selection, at times backing independents or accommodating allies to maximise its chances, while complementing these efforts with careful floor management inside the House. By timing the introduction of key legislations, ensuring attendance when it matters, and navigating debates with a close eye on arithmetic, the BJP has repeatedly managed to secure passage of bills despite lacking a clear majority of its own.Passing laws ‘without a majority’The BJP has, over the past decade, managed to secure passage of several key legislations through a calibrated mix of political support, timing and procedural strategy. This has often involved backing from non-NDA regional parties, abstentions and walkouts by sections of the opposition, and careful scheduling of debates when the numbers were favourable. For instance, during the passage of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019, the government did not have the required numbers on its own, but abstentions by parties such as the JD(U), AIADMK and TRS reduced the effective strength of the House, allowing the bill to pass with a comfortable margin. Similarly, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019, which paved the way for the abrogation of Article 370, saw active support from parties like the Biju Janata Dal, YSR Congress Party and AIADMK, despite their not being part of a formal alliance with the BJP. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019 followed a comparable pattern, with regional parties backing the government and helping it secure a majority in a tightly contested vote. In other cases, procedural tools have played a role, as seen during the passage of the farm laws in 2020, where a voice vote was used amid opposition demands for division, effectively sidestepping a potentially uncertain headcount. Walkouts, too, have frequently lowered the voting threshold, turning what might have been close contests into manageable ones for the government. Taken together, these instances highlight a recurring paradox reflecting how a government without a formal majority in the Upper House rarely found its legislative agenda blocked, largely due to a combination of opposition fragmentation and strategic floor management.The opposition’s missed momentIf the BJP’s story is one of adaptation and strategy, the opposition’s is one of missed opportunities.For much of the past decade, the opposition had, at least numerically, the ability to influence legislation in the Rajya Sabha. It could have demanded deeper scrutiny, negotiated amendments, or even stalled contentious bills. That potential has frequently gone unrealised.The reasons are structural as well as political:Fragmentation across regional and national partiesFactionalism within partiesCoordination failures in key momentsStrategic missteps such as walkouts and absencesThe Haryana episode is particularly revealing. Despite having sufficient numbers, Congress saw its margin shrink dramatically due to cross-voting and invalid ballots, turning a comfortable win into a narrow escape.In Bihar, absence cost a seat. In Odisha, cross-voting overturned arithmetic. These are not isolated failures, but recurring patterns.Cross-voting: Symptom of deeper issueCross-voting has long been part of Indian politics, but its recurring impact in Rajya Sabha elections points to deeper issues of party discipline and internal cohesion.In tightly contested elections, even a handful of defecting votes can alter outcomes. For the BJP, such moments have often translated into unexpected gains. For the opposition, they have exposed organisational weaknesses.The recent elections have once again highlighted how fragile opposition unity can be under pressure.Why Rajya Sabha still mattersIn public discourse, the Lok Sabha often dominates attention. But the Rajya Sabha remains crucial to India’s parliamentary system.It serves as:A legislative check on the executiveA forum for representing state interestsA continuing body that ensures institutional stabilityIn theory, it is designed to deepen debate and improve legislation. In practice, its effectiveness depends on how political actors engage with it. Why Rajya Sabha elections mattter Power beyond numbersThe BJP’s experience in the Rajya Sabha over the past decade offers a broader outlook about how parliamentary politics functions beyond simple arithmetic. Power in the Upper House is not determined solely by numbers, but by how those numbers are mobilised, negotiated and, at times, fragmented across parties. The BJP, despite starting from a position of numerical disadvantage, has used issue-based support, timing and floor coordination to advance its legislative agenda. At the same time, this phase has also highlighted the challenges before the opposition. While opposition parties have often had the combined strength to influence or slow down legislation, differences in political priorities, regional considerations and coordination gaps have limited their ability to act as a cohesive bloc. In several instances, this has resulted in either support from non-NDA parties or reduced resistance through abstentions, shaping outcomes in the government’s favour. The overall trend, therefore, reflects not just the ruling party’s strategy, but also the opposition’s struggle to consistently translate its numerical presence into sustained parliamentary leverage.A few absent MLAs in Bihar. A handful of cross-votes in Odisha. Invalid ballots and factional cracks in Haryana. Each episode reinforces the same underlying truth that in the arithmetic of the Rajya Sabha, discipline and coordination matter as much as numbers.The Rajya Sabha was envisioned as a counterbalance, a chamber where legislation would be tested through debate and consensus. Over the past decade, it has instead become a space where strategy often determines outcomes as much as structure.The BJP may not have had a majority of its own in the Upper House for much of this period. But it has repeatedly found ways to create one when it matters.And as recent events show, the difference between victory and defeat in this House is often not a sweeping mandate, but a handful of votes that stay, stray or simply do not show up!End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosWorld on edge! Rajnath Singh warns of global fallout from Iran warIAF Pursuing Acquisition Of 200 Israeli ROCKS Missiles With ToT For Domestic Manufacturing: ReportsAir India Wrong Plane Blunder Explained: Five Reasons Why Vancouver Flight U-Turn Was A Costly MistakeHigh Risk Voyage: India LPG Tankers Set To Cross Strait Of Hormuz After Diplomatic Push By Modi GovtPak Claims India Developing 12,000 Km Range Missile After US Report Places Islamabad Alongside IranAsaduddin Owaisi Slams PM Modi Over Iran War Says India Lost Neutral Voice In Global Peace EffortsMoD Reveals India Exploring Joining GCAP Or FCAS Sixth Generation Fighter ProgrammePM Modi Speaks To Bahrain King, Condemns Attacks On Energy Infra, Stresses Secure Shipping RoutesTrump Sending Troops To Strait Of Hormuz?; ‘Iran Being Decimated’: Bibi Denies Dragging U.S Into WarDiplomacy In New Avatar: Why Vikram Doraiswami Picked Chinese Name Wei Jiameng As India’s New Envoy123Photostories14 scientific facts you probably didn’t know10 oldest dishes that have survived for centuries5 reasons why everyone is talking about Chile right nowFrom shopping, applying mehendi to preparing the last Iftar: Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar share their Eid 2026 preparationsChallaghatta railway bridge: Bengaluru’s long-awaited west corridor nears completionNoida’s Botanical Garden set for makeover, visitor access halted temporarilyHow to reverse fatty liver naturally without medication: Proven diet, weight loss, and lifestyle changes that work7 things women find attractive in a man, reveals dating expert’Don 2,’ ‘Pathaan,’ ‘Jawan’: 8 Shah Rukh Khan films that prove he is the ultimate action hero6 living tiger subspecies and where you can see them in the wild123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIga SwiatekAir India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

The new Rajya Sabha is 1.5 times larger than the old Rajya Sabha. Inspired by the traditional red tint of the Upper House, the leitmotif here is the lotus, India’s national flower. Monday’s Rajya Sabha elections did more than just fill a handful of Upper House vacancies. They told a familiar political story in a fresh setting, one where numbers, not noise, determine outcomes.Absentee legislators in Bihar cost the opposition a seat it should have won. Cross-voting in Odisha rewrote a settled arithmetic. And in Haryana, invalid ballots and defections turned what should have been a straightforward contest into a midnight cliffhanger. Watch NDA Victory in Rajya Sabha Polls Triggers War Of Words As Opposition Split Widens In Bihar Individually, these may appear as state-specific disruptions. Taken together, they underline a deeper and more enduring pattern. The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) growing “mastery” over the Rajya Sabha’s numbers game, and the opposition’s continuing inability to hold its ranks when it matters most.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Israel pounds Tehran as Iranians mark Nowruz; UAE, Kuwait defences respond to missile barrageTrump Rules Out Ceasefire: says US nears Iran war goals; signals wider military options’Enemy has been defeated’: Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei claims victory over US, IsraelThis is not a new story. It has been unfolding, quietly but decisively, since 2014.The Upper House paradoxWhen the BJP swept to power in 2014 with a decisive majority in the Lok Sabha, it did not carry that dominance into the Rajya Sabha. The Upper House, by design, is insulated from electoral waves. Its members are elected by state assemblies, and their terms are staggered, ensuring continuity and preventing sudden shifts.This meant that even as the BJP commanded brute strength in the Lower House, it remained a minority in the Upper House for years. That imbalance mattered! Composition of Rajya Sabha Unlike the Lok Sabha, where a majority can push legislation through with relative ease, the Rajya Sabha demands negotiation, persuasion and, at times, political ingenuity. For the BJP, this became both a constraint and an opportunity. A constraint because it could not legislate unilaterally, and an opportunity because it forced the party to develop a different kind of political playbook.The slow climbFrom 2014 onwards, the BJP began a steady climb in the Rajya Sabha through a mix of electoral expansion and strategic positioning. Each state election victory translated, over time, into incremental gains in the Upper House.States like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Assam and later parts of the Northeast became critical to this expansion. But no state illustrates this mechanism better than Uttar Pradesh.With 403 MLAs, Uttar Pradesh is the single biggest contributor to the Rajya Sabha, sending 31 members. After the BJP’s sweeping victory in the 2017 assembly elections, it dramatically improved its Upper House numbers through successive election cycles.This is the core mechanic of the Rajya Sabha, which mandates political parties to control state assemblies, and over time, it leads to the reshaping of the composition of the Upper House in favour of the party with most numbers of seats in the state assemblies.Yet, even as the BJP’s numbers improved, it still did not consistently cross the majority mark on its own. And still, legislation kept moving. Non-NDA support for BJP How Rajya Sabha election really worksRajya Sabha elections are not direct. MLAs vote using proportional representation through the single transferable vote (STV) system. Rajya Sabha formula And this is where the system becomes politically sensitive.A handful of cross-votes, a few abstentions, or even incorrectly marked ballots can flip outcomes. The events in Bihar, Odisha and Haryana this week demonstrate just how fragile and fluid these calculations can be.The heart of this system lies in a deceptively simple formula.An Uttar Pradesh Example: How votes are calculated in Rajya Sabha Managing the numbers: The BJP playbookOver the past decade, the BJP has demonstrated a consistent ability to navigate the complexities of the Rajya Sabha’s numbers game, relying not on a single strategy but on a “combination of approaches” that together create a working majority even without a formal one. A key pillar of this has been the steady expansion of its electoral base, with victories in state assemblies translating into incremental gains in the Upper House over time. Where it has fallen short, the party has built tactical, often issue-based understandings with regional players such as the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) and AIADMK, whose support, though not always formal, has proved decisive in crucial votes. Non-NDA support for BJP At the same time, the BJP has benefited from cross-voting and dissidence within opposition ranks, a recurring feature of Rajya Sabha elections that has tilted outcomes in its favour, as seen in the recent Odisha contest. The party has also shown flexibility in candidate selection, at times backing independents or accommodating allies to maximise its chances, while complementing these efforts with careful floor management inside the House. By timing the introduction of key legislations, ensuring attendance when it matters, and navigating debates with a close eye on arithmetic, the BJP has repeatedly managed to secure passage of bills despite lacking a clear majority of its own.Passing laws ‘without a majority’The BJP has, over the past decade, managed to secure passage of several key legislations through a calibrated mix of political support, timing and procedural strategy. This has often involved backing from non-NDA regional parties, abstentions and walkouts by sections of the opposition, and careful scheduling of debates when the numbers were favourable. For instance, during the passage of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019, the government did not have the required numbers on its own, but abstentions by parties such as the JD(U), AIADMK and TRS reduced the effective strength of the House, allowing the bill to pass with a comfortable margin. Similarly, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, 2019, which paved the way for the abrogation of Article 370, saw active support from parties like the Biju Janata Dal, YSR Congress Party and AIADMK, despite their not being part of a formal alliance with the BJP. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019 followed a comparable pattern, with regional parties backing the government and helping it secure a majority in a tightly contested vote. In other cases, procedural tools have played a role, as seen during the passage of the farm laws in 2020, where a voice vote was used amid opposition demands for division, effectively sidestepping a potentially uncertain headcount. Walkouts, too, have frequently lowered the voting threshold, turning what might have been close contests into manageable ones for the government. Taken together, these instances highlight a recurring paradox reflecting how a government without a formal majority in the Upper House rarely found its legislative agenda blocked, largely due to a combination of opposition fragmentation and strategic floor management.The opposition’s missed momentIf the BJP’s story is one of adaptation and strategy, the opposition’s is one of missed opportunities.For much of the past decade, the opposition had, at least numerically, the ability to influence legislation in the Rajya Sabha. It could have demanded deeper scrutiny, negotiated amendments, or even stalled contentious bills. That potential has frequently gone unrealised.The reasons are structural as well as political:Fragmentation across regional and national partiesFactionalism within partiesCoordination failures in key momentsStrategic missteps such as walkouts and absencesThe Haryana episode is particularly revealing. Despite having sufficient numbers, Congress saw its margin shrink dramatically due to cross-voting and invalid ballots, turning a comfortable win into a narrow escape.In Bihar, absence cost a seat. In Odisha, cross-voting overturned arithmetic. These are not isolated failures, but recurring patterns.Cross-voting: Symptom of deeper issueCross-voting has long been part of Indian politics, but its recurring impact in Rajya Sabha elections points to deeper issues of party discipline and internal cohesion.In tightly contested elections, even a handful of defecting votes can alter outcomes. For the BJP, such moments have often translated into unexpected gains. For the opposition, they have exposed organisational weaknesses.The recent elections have once again highlighted how fragile opposition unity can be under pressure.Why Rajya Sabha still mattersIn public discourse, the Lok Sabha often dominates attention. But the Rajya Sabha remains crucial to India’s parliamentary system.It serves as:A legislative check on the executiveA forum for representing state interestsA continuing body that ensures institutional stabilityIn theory, it is designed to deepen debate and improve legislation. In practice, its effectiveness depends on how political actors engage with it. Why Rajya Sabha elections mattter Power beyond numbersThe BJP’s experience in the Rajya Sabha over the past decade offers a broader outlook about how parliamentary politics functions beyond simple arithmetic. Power in the Upper House is not determined solely by numbers, but by how those numbers are mobilised, negotiated and, at times, fragmented across parties. The BJP, despite starting from a position of numerical disadvantage, has used issue-based support, timing and floor coordination to advance its legislative agenda. At the same time, this phase has also highlighted the challenges before the opposition. While opposition parties have often had the combined strength to influence or slow down legislation, differences in political priorities, regional considerations and coordination gaps have limited their ability to act as a cohesive bloc. In several instances, this has resulted in either support from non-NDA parties or reduced resistance through abstentions, shaping outcomes in the government’s favour. The overall trend, therefore, reflects not just the ruling party’s strategy, but also the opposition’s struggle to consistently translate its numerical presence into sustained parliamentary leverage.A few absent MLAs in Bihar. A handful of cross-votes in Odisha. Invalid ballots and factional cracks in Haryana. Each episode reinforces the same underlying truth that in the arithmetic of the Rajya Sabha, discipline and coordination matter as much as numbers.The Rajya Sabha was envisioned as a counterbalance, a chamber where legislation would be tested through debate and consensus. Over the past decade, it has instead become a space where strategy often determines outcomes as much as structure.The BJP may not have had a majority of its own in the Upper House for much of this period. But it has repeatedly found ways to create one when it matters.And as recent events show, the difference between victory and defeat in this House is often not a sweeping mandate, but a handful of votes that stay, stray or simply do not show up!End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosWorld on edge! Rajnath Singh warns of global fallout from Iran warIAF Pursuing Acquisition Of 200 Israeli ROCKS Missiles With ToT For Domestic Manufacturing: ReportsAir India Wrong Plane Blunder Explained: Five Reasons Why Vancouver Flight U-Turn Was A Costly MistakeHigh Risk Voyage: India LPG Tankers Set To Cross Strait Of Hormuz After Diplomatic Push By Modi GovtPak Claims India Developing 12,000 Km Range Missile After US Report Places Islamabad Alongside IranAsaduddin Owaisi Slams PM Modi Over Iran War Says India Lost Neutral Voice In Global Peace EffortsMoD Reveals India Exploring Joining GCAP Or FCAS Sixth Generation Fighter ProgrammePM Modi Speaks To Bahrain King, Condemns Attacks On Energy Infra, Stresses Secure Shipping RoutesTrump Sending Troops To Strait Of Hormuz?; ‘Iran Being Decimated’: Bibi Denies Dragging U.S Into WarDiplomacy In New Avatar: Why Vikram Doraiswami Picked Chinese Name Wei Jiameng As India’s New Envoy123Photostories14 scientific facts you probably didn’t know10 oldest dishes that have survived for centuries5 reasons why everyone is talking about Chile right nowFrom shopping, applying mehendi to preparing the last Iftar: Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar share their Eid 2026 preparationsChallaghatta railway bridge: Bengaluru’s long-awaited west corridor nears completionNoida’s Botanical Garden set for makeover, visitor access halted temporarilyHow to reverse fatty liver naturally without medication: Proven diet, weight loss, and lifestyle changes that work7 things women find attractive in a man, reveals dating expert’Don 2,’ ‘Pathaan,’ ‘Jawan’: 8 Shah Rukh Khan films that prove he is the ultimate action hero6 living tiger subspecies and where you can see them in the wild123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIga SwiatekAir India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

Vamsikrishna09 mins mins

The new Rajya Sabha is 1.5 times larger than the old Rajya Sabha. Inspired by the traditional red tint of the Upper House, the leitmotif here is the lotus, India’s national flower. Monday’s Rajya Sabha elections did more than just fill a handful of Upper House vacancies. They told a familiar political story in a…

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GBHSE Goa Board Class 12th result 2026 released with a 92.9% pass percentage: Check direct link to download scorecards here

GBHSE Goa Board Class 12th result 2026 released with a 92.9% pass percentage: Check direct link to download scorecards here

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

GBHSE Goa Board Class 12th result 2026: The Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (GBSHSE) has officially released the Class 12 (HSSC) results, today, March 21, 2026. The results were released in a press conference held at the Board’s office in Porvorim, where the Chairman addressed the media. Students who have taken the…

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Revisiting Oscars 2017 memory: When ‘Desi Girl’ Priyanka Chopra Jonas interviewed ‘Friends’ star Jennifer Aniston

Revisiting Oscars 2017 memory: When ‘Desi Girl’ Priyanka Chopra Jonas interviewed ‘Friends’ star Jennifer Aniston

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Hard to believe, but the year everyone remembers for the epic Oscars ‘Envelope-gate’ (the ‘La La Land’ and ‘Moonlight’ mix-up) also gave us one of the most unforgettable backstage moments ever. 2017’s Academy Awards had its share of headline-making wins, but one of the night’s best moments didn’t even happen on stage. It played out…

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US, Israel strike Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility again; no radiation leak reported

US, Israel strike Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility again; no radiation leak reported

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

The United States and Israel carried out fresh strikes on Iran’s Natanz uranium-enrichment facility on Saturday morning, Iranian state-linked media and officials said, marking another escalation in the ongoing conflict.Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported that the Natanz facility was targeted in the joint US-Israeli attack. It added that there were no immediate signs of radioactive…

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Statues down, streets renamed, mural covered: Fallout grows after claims against Cesar Chavez

Statues down, streets renamed, mural covered: Fallout grows after claims against Cesar Chavez

Vamsikrishna06 mins mins

The name and likeness of Cesar Chavez were swiftly removed from buildings, roads, parks and schools after allegations surfaced accusing the farmworker rights icon of sexually assaulting minors and fellow labour leader Dolores Huerta. Within just two days of a New York Times investigation bringing the claims to light, officials and activists across California moved…

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NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, conveying greetings on Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz amid the ongoing Middle East crisis.Sharing a post on X, Modi said, “we expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia.””Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains. Reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure,” he added.The Prime Minister also appreciated Tehran’s support for Indians in the country, saying, “Appreciated Iran’s continued support for the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran.”Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Israel pounds Tehran as Iranians mark Nowruz; UAE, Kuwait defences respond to missile barrageTrump Rules Out Ceasefire: says US nears Iran war goals; signals wider military options’Enemy has been defeated’: Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei claims victory over US, IsraelEarlier in the day, United States and Israel carried out fresh strikes on Iran’s Natanz uranium-enrichment facility on Saturday, according to Iranian state-linked media. Tasnim news agency reported that the site was targeted in the joint attack, but there were no immediate signs of radioactive leakage and nearby residents were not at risk. Iran had earlier reported strikes on the same facility in previous rounds of US-Israeli operations, underlining its strategic importance.This marked the second telephonic conversation between the two leaders since the conflict escalated on February 28. Earlier, on March 12, Prime Minister had spoken to Pezeshkian and expressed “deep concern” over the rising tensions.”Had a conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure,” he had posted on X.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 MediaVideosWorld on edge! Rajnath Singh warns of global fallout from Iran warIAF Pursuing Acquisition Of 200 Israeli ROCKS Missiles With ToT For Domestic Manufacturing: ReportsAir India Wrong Plane Blunder Explained: Five Reasons Why Vancouver Flight U-Turn Was A Costly MistakeHigh Risk Voyage: India LPG Tankers Set To Cross Strait Of Hormuz After Diplomatic Push By Modi GovtPak Claims India Developing 12,000 Km Range Missile After US Report Places Islamabad Alongside IranAsaduddin Owaisi Slams PM Modi Over Iran War Says India Lost Neutral Voice In Global Peace EffortsMoD Reveals India Exploring Joining GCAP Or FCAS Sixth Generation Fighter ProgrammePM Modi Speaks To Bahrain King, Condemns Attacks On Energy Infra, Stresses Secure Shipping RoutesTrump Sending Troops To Strait Of Hormuz?; ‘Iran Being Decimated’: Bibi Denies Dragging U.S Into WarDiplomacy In New Avatar: Why Vikram Doraiswami Picked Chinese Name Wei Jiameng As India’s New Envoy123Photostories10 oldest dishes that have survived for centuries5 reasons why everyone is talking about Chile right nowFrom shopping, applying mehendi to preparing the last Iftar: Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar share their Eid 2026 preparationsChallaghatta railway bridge: Bengaluru’s long-awaited west corridor nears completionNoida’s Botanical Garden set for makeover, visitor access halted temporarilyHow to reverse fatty liver naturally without medication: Proven diet, weight loss, and lifestyle changes that work’Don 2,’ ‘Pathaan,’ ‘Jawan’: 8 Shah Rukh Khan films that prove he is the ultimate action hero6 living tiger subspecies and where you can see them in the wildTour of Sania Mirza’s ₹13 crore Hyderabad residence; a Greek-inspired luxury villa with personal styleMargot Robbie’s most stylish looks: From Barbiecore to timeless red carpet glamour123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIga SwiatekAir India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, conveying greetings on Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz amid the ongoing Middle East crisis.Sharing a post on X, Modi said, “we expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia.””Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains. Reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure,” he added.The Prime Minister also appreciated Tehran’s support for Indians in the country, saying, “Appreciated Iran’s continued support for the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran.”Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Israel pounds Tehran as Iranians mark Nowruz; UAE, Kuwait defences respond to missile barrageTrump Rules Out Ceasefire: says US nears Iran war goals; signals wider military options’Enemy has been defeated’: Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei claims victory over US, IsraelEarlier in the day, United States and Israel carried out fresh strikes on Iran’s Natanz uranium-enrichment facility on Saturday, according to Iranian state-linked media. Tasnim news agency reported that the site was targeted in the joint attack, but there were no immediate signs of radioactive leakage and nearby residents were not at risk. Iran had earlier reported strikes on the same facility in previous rounds of US-Israeli operations, underlining its strategic importance.This marked the second telephonic conversation between the two leaders since the conflict escalated on February 28. Earlier, on March 12, Prime Minister had spoken to Pezeshkian and expressed “deep concern” over the rising tensions.”Had a conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure,” he had posted on X.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 MediaVideosWorld on edge! Rajnath Singh warns of global fallout from Iran warIAF Pursuing Acquisition Of 200 Israeli ROCKS Missiles With ToT For Domestic Manufacturing: ReportsAir India Wrong Plane Blunder Explained: Five Reasons Why Vancouver Flight U-Turn Was A Costly MistakeHigh Risk Voyage: India LPG Tankers Set To Cross Strait Of Hormuz After Diplomatic Push By Modi GovtPak Claims India Developing 12,000 Km Range Missile After US Report Places Islamabad Alongside IranAsaduddin Owaisi Slams PM Modi Over Iran War Says India Lost Neutral Voice In Global Peace EffortsMoD Reveals India Exploring Joining GCAP Or FCAS Sixth Generation Fighter ProgrammePM Modi Speaks To Bahrain King, Condemns Attacks On Energy Infra, Stresses Secure Shipping RoutesTrump Sending Troops To Strait Of Hormuz?; ‘Iran Being Decimated’: Bibi Denies Dragging U.S Into WarDiplomacy In New Avatar: Why Vikram Doraiswami Picked Chinese Name Wei Jiameng As India’s New Envoy123Photostories10 oldest dishes that have survived for centuries5 reasons why everyone is talking about Chile right nowFrom shopping, applying mehendi to preparing the last Iftar: Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar share their Eid 2026 preparationsChallaghatta railway bridge: Bengaluru’s long-awaited west corridor nears completionNoida’s Botanical Garden set for makeover, visitor access halted temporarilyHow to reverse fatty liver naturally without medication: Proven diet, weight loss, and lifestyle changes that work’Don 2,’ ‘Pathaan,’ ‘Jawan’: 8 Shah Rukh Khan films that prove he is the ultimate action hero6 living tiger subspecies and where you can see them in the wildTour of Sania Mirza’s ₹13 crore Hyderabad residence; a Greek-inspired luxury villa with personal styleMargot Robbie’s most stylish looks: From Barbiecore to timeless red carpet glamour123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIga SwiatekAir India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, conveying greetings on Eid al-Fitr and Nowruz amid the ongoing Middle East crisis.Sharing a post on X, Modi said, “we expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia.”“Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region,…

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Mar 21, 2026, 16:49 IST

Mar 21, 2026, 16:49 IST

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians (MI) head into IPL 2026 as one of the favourites to lift the title, especially after several of their players impressed in T20 World Cup 2026. Last season, MI reached Qualifier 2, where they lost to Punjab Kings by five wickets.Mumbai Indians entered the IPL 2026 auction with a purse…

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IPL MVPs since 2008: From Sachin Tendulkar to Sunil Narine, how the system works

IPL MVPs since 2008: From Sachin Tendulkar to Sunil Narine, how the system works

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Shane Watson, Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Narine The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season is scheduled to begin on March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. How is the Most Valuable Player selected? The league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) is decided through a points…

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‘Dhurandhar The Revenge’: Ram Gopal Varma hails the Ranveer Singh starrer a ‘RESET BUTTON’ in NEW review

‘Dhurandhar The Revenge’: Ram Gopal Varma hails the Ranveer Singh starrer a ‘RESET BUTTON’ in NEW review

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

In a bold statement, acclaimed filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has praised Ranveer Singh’s latest endeavor, ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’, suggesting it acts as a ‘reset button’ for the Indian film industry. Debuting on March 19, 2026, this gripping espionage thriller chronicles a spy’s ascent in Pakistan and has already raked in more than Rs 270 crore….

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Jasjeet Sekhon joins Google DeepMind as Chief Strategy Officer; gets a welcome note from CEO Demis Hassabis; says I feel a moral obligation to …

Jasjeet Sekhon joins Google DeepMind as Chief Strategy Officer; gets a welcome note from CEO Demis Hassabis; says I feel a moral obligation to …

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

As Google takes on ChatGPT-maker OpenAI and Anthropic in the artificial intelligence market, company’s AI unit, DeepMind, has hired Jasjeet Sekhon as its new chief strategy officer. Sekhon will work directly with Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis to drive the company’s AI innovation and R&D efforts. He has previously held professorships at some of the…

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NEW DELHI: Days before the Kerala assembly elections, the warning signs for the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) were already flashing — and they come from the ground up.The recent local body polls, often seen as a bellwether in the state, delivered a clear message: the Congress-led UDF has gained momentum, while the Left’s decade-long dominance shows signs of strain.In what effectively turned into a semi-final before the April 9 assembly polls, the UDF emerged as the principal gainer, winning four of the six municipal corporations and making sweeping gains across municipalities and panchayats. The LDF, in contrast, saw erosion in key urban strongholds, including long-held bastions like Kollam and Thrissur.The significance of these results goes beyond numbers. In Kerala’s political history, local body outcomes have often foreshadowed assembly verdicts, as seen in 2010 and 2020. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Israel pounds Tehran as Iranians mark Nowruz; UAE, Kuwait defences respond to missile barrageTrump Rules Out Ceasefire: says US nears Iran war goals; signals wider military options’Enemy has been defeated’: Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei claims victory over US, IsraelThis time, the trend suggests a more challenging road ahead for chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is seeking an unprecedented third consecutive term.For a government that scripted history in 2021 by breaking the state’s pattern of alternating power, the script now appears less certain. With anti-incumbency quietly building, the opposition sensing an opening, and the BJP expanding its footprint, Kerala is shaping up for a far more competitive contest than the last election.Red flag for the Left?The recent local body polls in Kerala may offer more than just a snapshot of grassroots reality; they might signal shifting voter sentiment ahead of the assembly elections.In civic polls that resembled a referendum ahead of the assembly elections, the Congress-led alliance emerged as the principal gainer, outperforming the LDF across the board.It won four of the six municipal corporations in the state, while the LDF managed to secure only one. At the municipality level, the Congress-led front claimed 54 of the 86 bodies, with the Left restricted to 28 and the NDA securing two. The UDF also made significant gains at the grassroots, winning 504 of the 941 grama panchayats, compared to 341 for the Left and 26 for the NDA.At the block panchayat level, the UDF secured 79, while the LDF won 63. At the district panchayat level, both alliances were tied at seven each.One of the most striking aspects of the results was the scale of LDF’s losses in urban strongholds. The UDF bagged Kollam, Thrissur, and Kochi corporations from the Left while retaining Kannur. Kollam and Thrissur had remained under Left control for 25 and 10 years, respectively. In the Kozhikode Corporation, the contest was tight, with the LDF holding a slender lead before ultimately retaining the seat.What the civic polls indicateIn Kerala, local body elections have historically acted as a bellwether, with the winning party often carrying momentum into the assembly polls. In 2010, the last time Congress recorded a commanding performance in civic polls, the UDF went on to form the government the following year.Similarly, the LDF’s strong showing in the 2020 local body polls preceded chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s re-election in 2021. This time, however, the results suggest a potentially challenging road ahead for the Left.The stench of anti-incumbencyAs Vijayan seeks a third consecutive term, the inevitable ghost of anti-incumbency looms large. The government is grappling with concerns over fiscal stress, rising unemployment, the cost of living, and allegations of administrative centralisation and corruption.Meanwhile, the possibility of minority groups coming together against the Left has become an important factor. The government’s decision to give a Rs 1,600 monthly pension to Catholic nuns and other women in religious institutions without independent income shows a targeted effort to reach out to Christian communities. These steps suggest that identity politics, which used to be less central to the Left, is now a key part of its electoral strategy.In Kerala, anti-incumbency rarely erupts as a sudden wave; instead, it builds quietly across demographic segments. Several pre-poll surveys suggest the UDF is poised to make significant gains in the upcoming elections.The Poll Mantra survey, which interviewed around 26,000 respondents, shows the UDF leading with 38.2 per cent vote share, followed by the ruling LDF at 33.7 per cent and the BJP-led NDA at 20.4 per cent.On the chief ministerial preference, 46.8 per cent of respondents backed Congress leader KC Venugopal, surpassing Vijayan, who secured 27.9 per cent support.Public evaluation of governance also tilts unfavourably for the LDF: about 31 per cent rated its performance as “very poor” and another 20.9 per cent as “poor.” Only 23.8 per cent described the government’s work as “excellent,” and 10.7 per cent as “good.”On the development trust index, the UDF again leads, with 38.9 per cent expressing confidence in its ability to deliver development, compared to 27.8 per cent for the LDF and 23.1 per cent for the NDA.The surveys indicate that while Vijayan retains a strong base, the combination of anti-incumbency sentiment and UDF’s perceived development credibility could make the upcoming assembly elections highly competitive.Will BJP finally rise?The local body polls also signalled a strategic expansion for the BJP-led NDA. The party has steadily increased its vote share in recent elections, particularly in urban constituencies and areas with potential for strong Hindu consolidation.The NDA won 50 of 101 divisions in the prestigious Thiruvananthapuram corporation, which had been held by the CPM for 45 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the victory, saying: “My gratitude to the people across Kerala who voted for BJP and NDA candidates in the local body polls. Kerala is fed up with UDF and LDF. They see NDA as the only option that can deliver good governance and build a Vikasita Keralam with opportunities for all.”The BJP has also emerged as a serious contender in several urban pockets and traditionally Left-leaning areas, including Palakkad municipality, where it is narrowly ahead of the UDF. In Kozhikode Corporation, even as the CPM retains a slim lead, the BJP has strengthened its presence by winning at least 14 seats. In Kollam, a traditional Left bastion, the UDF claimed victory, while the BJP made notable inroads.Together, these trends indicate that Kerala’s electoral politics may no longer be a straight contest between the Left and the Congress. Although still behind the two major fronts numerically, the BJP’s performance points to gradual but steady expansion across the state.This, however, does not guarantee a victory for the UDF or a loss for the LDF. Local body polls are shaped by a mix of factors, including local issues and decentralised campaigning. The results only gave a head start to the UDF and placed the Left government under mounting pressure.Now, it will be interesting to see whether the Congress can rise to the challenge or continue to falter in the face of a resurgent Left and a steadily expanding BJP.In the upcoming elections, Congress will contest 95 of Kerala’s 140 seats, two more than it did in 2021. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has been allotted 27 seats, while Kerala Congress (Joseph) will contest 8 seats and the Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) 5 seats. Smaller allies, including Kerala Congress (Jacob), Communist Marxist Party, Revolutionary Marxist Party, Trinamool Congress (TMC), and Kerala Democratic Party, have been given one seat each.In the ruling LDF, the CPM dominates with 86 seats, followed by the CPI’s 25. Smaller allies hold limited but strategic spots: KC(M) with 12, RJD with 3 JD(S) and NCP with 3 each, INL with three seats, and one seat apiece for LJD, NSC, KC(B), Cong(S), and JKC.About the AuthorRohitashwa RanjanRohitashwa Ranjan is a digital journalist with The Times of India, where he decodes Indian politics as a carefully staged production with scripts, subtext and everything behind. His work tracks elections, party dynamics and the things that often are buried beneath the headlines. When not parsing vote shares or alliances, he is usually reading between the lines, where the real story tends to reside.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosKerala Assembly Polls 2026: Rajeev Chandrasekhar & V Muraleedharan Files Nominations in KeralaAir India Wrong Plane Blunder Explained: Five Reasons Why Vancouver Flight U-Turn Was A Costly MistakeHigh Risk Voyage: India LPG Tankers Set To Cross Strait Of Hormuz After Diplomatic Push By Modi GovtPak Claims India Developing 12,000 Km Range Missile After US Report Places Islamabad Alongside IranAsaduddin Owaisi Slams PM Modi Over Iran War Says India Lost Neutral Voice In Global Peace EffortsMoD Reveals India Exploring Joining GCAP Or FCAS Sixth Generation Fighter ProgrammePM Modi Speaks To Bahrain King, Condemns Attacks On Energy Infra, Stresses Secure Shipping RoutesTrump Sending Troops To Strait Of Hormuz?; ‘Iran Being Decimated’: Bibi Denies Dragging U.S Into WarDiplomacy In New Avatar: Why Vikram Doraiswami Picked Chinese Name Wei Jiameng As India’s New EnvoyHow Iran’s Attack on Qatar’s Ras Laffan Gas Hub Sparks India’s Energy Emergency123Photostories10 oldest dishes that have survived for centuries5 reasons why everyone is talking about Chile right nowFrom shopping, applying mehendi to preparing the last Iftar: Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar share their Eid 2026 preparationsChallaghatta railway bridge: Bengaluru’s long-awaited west corridor nears completionHow to reverse fatty liver naturally without medication: Proven diet, weight loss, and lifestyle changes that work7 things women find attractive in a man, reveals dating expert’Don 2,’ ‘Pathaan,’ ‘Jawan’: 8 Shah Rukh Khan films that prove he is the ultimate action hero6 living tiger subspecies and where you can see them in the wildTour of Sania Mirza’s ₹13 crore Hyderabad residence; a Greek-inspired luxury villa with personal styleMargot Robbie’s most stylish looks: From Barbiecore to timeless red carpet glamour123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIga SwiatekAir India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

NEW DELHI: Days before the Kerala assembly elections, the warning signs for the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) were already flashing — and they come from the ground up.The recent local body polls, often seen as a bellwether in the state, delivered a clear message: the Congress-led UDF has gained momentum, while the Left’s decade-long dominance shows signs of strain.In what effectively turned into a semi-final before the April 9 assembly polls, the UDF emerged as the principal gainer, winning four of the six municipal corporations and making sweeping gains across municipalities and panchayats. The LDF, in contrast, saw erosion in key urban strongholds, including long-held bastions like Kollam and Thrissur.The significance of these results goes beyond numbers. In Kerala’s political history, local body outcomes have often foreshadowed assembly verdicts, as seen in 2010 and 2020. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Israel pounds Tehran as Iranians mark Nowruz; UAE, Kuwait defences respond to missile barrageTrump Rules Out Ceasefire: says US nears Iran war goals; signals wider military options’Enemy has been defeated’: Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei claims victory over US, IsraelThis time, the trend suggests a more challenging road ahead for chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is seeking an unprecedented third consecutive term.For a government that scripted history in 2021 by breaking the state’s pattern of alternating power, the script now appears less certain. With anti-incumbency quietly building, the opposition sensing an opening, and the BJP expanding its footprint, Kerala is shaping up for a far more competitive contest than the last election.Red flag for the Left?The recent local body polls in Kerala may offer more than just a snapshot of grassroots reality; they might signal shifting voter sentiment ahead of the assembly elections.In civic polls that resembled a referendum ahead of the assembly elections, the Congress-led alliance emerged as the principal gainer, outperforming the LDF across the board.It won four of the six municipal corporations in the state, while the LDF managed to secure only one. At the municipality level, the Congress-led front claimed 54 of the 86 bodies, with the Left restricted to 28 and the NDA securing two. The UDF also made significant gains at the grassroots, winning 504 of the 941 grama panchayats, compared to 341 for the Left and 26 for the NDA.At the block panchayat level, the UDF secured 79, while the LDF won 63. At the district panchayat level, both alliances were tied at seven each.One of the most striking aspects of the results was the scale of LDF’s losses in urban strongholds. The UDF bagged Kollam, Thrissur, and Kochi corporations from the Left while retaining Kannur. Kollam and Thrissur had remained under Left control for 25 and 10 years, respectively. In the Kozhikode Corporation, the contest was tight, with the LDF holding a slender lead before ultimately retaining the seat.What the civic polls indicateIn Kerala, local body elections have historically acted as a bellwether, with the winning party often carrying momentum into the assembly polls. In 2010, the last time Congress recorded a commanding performance in civic polls, the UDF went on to form the government the following year.Similarly, the LDF’s strong showing in the 2020 local body polls preceded chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s re-election in 2021. This time, however, the results suggest a potentially challenging road ahead for the Left.The stench of anti-incumbencyAs Vijayan seeks a third consecutive term, the inevitable ghost of anti-incumbency looms large. The government is grappling with concerns over fiscal stress, rising unemployment, the cost of living, and allegations of administrative centralisation and corruption.Meanwhile, the possibility of minority groups coming together against the Left has become an important factor. The government’s decision to give a Rs 1,600 monthly pension to Catholic nuns and other women in religious institutions without independent income shows a targeted effort to reach out to Christian communities. These steps suggest that identity politics, which used to be less central to the Left, is now a key part of its electoral strategy.In Kerala, anti-incumbency rarely erupts as a sudden wave; instead, it builds quietly across demographic segments. Several pre-poll surveys suggest the UDF is poised to make significant gains in the upcoming elections.The Poll Mantra survey, which interviewed around 26,000 respondents, shows the UDF leading with 38.2 per cent vote share, followed by the ruling LDF at 33.7 per cent and the BJP-led NDA at 20.4 per cent.On the chief ministerial preference, 46.8 per cent of respondents backed Congress leader KC Venugopal, surpassing Vijayan, who secured 27.9 per cent support.Public evaluation of governance also tilts unfavourably for the LDF: about 31 per cent rated its performance as “very poor” and another 20.9 per cent as “poor.” Only 23.8 per cent described the government’s work as “excellent,” and 10.7 per cent as “good.”On the development trust index, the UDF again leads, with 38.9 per cent expressing confidence in its ability to deliver development, compared to 27.8 per cent for the LDF and 23.1 per cent for the NDA.The surveys indicate that while Vijayan retains a strong base, the combination of anti-incumbency sentiment and UDF’s perceived development credibility could make the upcoming assembly elections highly competitive.Will BJP finally rise?The local body polls also signalled a strategic expansion for the BJP-led NDA. The party has steadily increased its vote share in recent elections, particularly in urban constituencies and areas with potential for strong Hindu consolidation.The NDA won 50 of 101 divisions in the prestigious Thiruvananthapuram corporation, which had been held by the CPM for 45 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the victory, saying: “My gratitude to the people across Kerala who voted for BJP and NDA candidates in the local body polls. Kerala is fed up with UDF and LDF. They see NDA as the only option that can deliver good governance and build a Vikasita Keralam with opportunities for all.”The BJP has also emerged as a serious contender in several urban pockets and traditionally Left-leaning areas, including Palakkad municipality, where it is narrowly ahead of the UDF. In Kozhikode Corporation, even as the CPM retains a slim lead, the BJP has strengthened its presence by winning at least 14 seats. In Kollam, a traditional Left bastion, the UDF claimed victory, while the BJP made notable inroads.Together, these trends indicate that Kerala’s electoral politics may no longer be a straight contest between the Left and the Congress. Although still behind the two major fronts numerically, the BJP’s performance points to gradual but steady expansion across the state.This, however, does not guarantee a victory for the UDF or a loss for the LDF. Local body polls are shaped by a mix of factors, including local issues and decentralised campaigning. The results only gave a head start to the UDF and placed the Left government under mounting pressure.Now, it will be interesting to see whether the Congress can rise to the challenge or continue to falter in the face of a resurgent Left and a steadily expanding BJP.In the upcoming elections, Congress will contest 95 of Kerala’s 140 seats, two more than it did in 2021. The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) has been allotted 27 seats, while Kerala Congress (Joseph) will contest 8 seats and the Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) 5 seats. Smaller allies, including Kerala Congress (Jacob), Communist Marxist Party, Revolutionary Marxist Party, Trinamool Congress (TMC), and Kerala Democratic Party, have been given one seat each.In the ruling LDF, the CPM dominates with 86 seats, followed by the CPI’s 25. Smaller allies hold limited but strategic spots: KC(M) with 12, RJD with 3 JD(S) and NCP with 3 each, INL with three seats, and one seat apiece for LJD, NSC, KC(B), Cong(S), and JKC.About the AuthorRohitashwa RanjanRohitashwa Ranjan is a digital journalist with The Times of India, where he decodes Indian politics as a carefully staged production with scripts, subtext and everything behind. His work tracks elections, party dynamics and the things that often are buried beneath the headlines. When not parsing vote shares or alliances, he is usually reading between the lines, where the real story tends to reside.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosKerala Assembly Polls 2026: Rajeev Chandrasekhar & V Muraleedharan Files Nominations in KeralaAir India Wrong Plane Blunder Explained: Five Reasons Why Vancouver Flight U-Turn Was A Costly MistakeHigh Risk Voyage: India LPG Tankers Set To Cross Strait Of Hormuz After Diplomatic Push By Modi GovtPak Claims India Developing 12,000 Km Range Missile After US Report Places Islamabad Alongside IranAsaduddin Owaisi Slams PM Modi Over Iran War Says India Lost Neutral Voice In Global Peace EffortsMoD Reveals India Exploring Joining GCAP Or FCAS Sixth Generation Fighter ProgrammePM Modi Speaks To Bahrain King, Condemns Attacks On Energy Infra, Stresses Secure Shipping RoutesTrump Sending Troops To Strait Of Hormuz?; ‘Iran Being Decimated’: Bibi Denies Dragging U.S Into WarDiplomacy In New Avatar: Why Vikram Doraiswami Picked Chinese Name Wei Jiameng As India’s New EnvoyHow Iran’s Attack on Qatar’s Ras Laffan Gas Hub Sparks India’s Energy Emergency123Photostories10 oldest dishes that have survived for centuries5 reasons why everyone is talking about Chile right nowFrom shopping, applying mehendi to preparing the last Iftar: Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar share their Eid 2026 preparationsChallaghatta railway bridge: Bengaluru’s long-awaited west corridor nears completionHow to reverse fatty liver naturally without medication: Proven diet, weight loss, and lifestyle changes that work7 things women find attractive in a man, reveals dating expert’Don 2,’ ‘Pathaan,’ ‘Jawan’: 8 Shah Rukh Khan films that prove he is the ultimate action hero6 living tiger subspecies and where you can see them in the wildTour of Sania Mirza’s ₹13 crore Hyderabad residence; a Greek-inspired luxury villa with personal styleMargot Robbie’s most stylish looks: From Barbiecore to timeless red carpet glamour123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIga SwiatekAir India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

Vamsikrishna07 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Days before the Kerala assembly elections, the warning signs for the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) were already flashing — and they come from the ground up.The recent local body polls, often seen as a bellwether in the state, delivered a clear message: the Congress-led UDF has gained momentum, while the Left’s decade-long…

Read More
UPTET registration window to open on March 27: Check steps to apply here

UPTET registration window to open on March 27: Check steps to apply here

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

UPTET application 2026: The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) will start the Uttar Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test (UPTET) 2026 application form from March 27, 2026. The notification has been released on the official website. The registrations will end on April 26, 2026. Aspirants need to register themselves one time. A correction window will remain…

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How Donald Trump and team ‘miscalculated’ Iran response and now feel the pressure: Explained in 10 points

How Donald Trump and team ‘miscalculated’ Iran response and now feel the pressure: Explained in 10 points

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Operation Epic Fury began as a lightning strike but has now devolved into a grinding 22-day war of attrition. The US and Israel launched a decisive salvo, obliterating several rungs of Iran’s leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Waves of missiles pulverised key military sites, aiming for a swift “get-in, get-out” decapitation.Yet Iran…

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Jairam Ramesh NEW DELHI: Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Saturday criticised the Centre, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of ‘moral cowardice and political betrayal’ as the US-Israel conflict with Iran enters its third week.In a post on X, Ramesh highlighted that it has been over three weeks since the aerial assault on Iran began and 23 days since the PM’s visit to Israel. He alleged that the government has remained silent and failed to take any substantive diplomatic initiative to de-escalate tensions.“It has been exactly 21 days or three weeks since the aerial assault of the US and Israel on Iran began. It has also been 23 days since the PM returned from his much-trumpeted visit to Israel. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Israel pounds Tehran as Iranians mark Nowruz; UAE, Kuwait defences respond to missile barrageTrump Rules Out Ceasefire: says US nears Iran war goals; signals wider military options’Enemy has been defeated’: Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei claims victory over US, IsraelHas the Modi Govt condemned or criticised or deplored the launch of the heavy aerial assault on Iran by the US and Israel that has now led to severe economic dislocations everywhere including India? The answer is No,” Ramesh wrote on X. The Congress leader went on to pose four-pointed questions: Has the Modi Govt condemned or criticised or deplored the targeted assassinations of top Iranian leaders by the US and Israel that continues unabated?Has the Modi Govt condemned or criticised or deplored the brutal efforts of the US and Israel to force a regime change and state collapse that could lead to civil war in Iran?Has the Modi Govt mounted serious diplomatic efforts and initiatives to bring the bombing of Iran and Iran’s attacks on energy and other essential infrastructure in the Gulf countries to an immediate halt?Has the PM used his much-claimed friendship with the US President and the Israeli PM to bring about a cease-fire?Answering all the four questions as a big ‘NO’, he further wrote in his post, “These 4 NOs reflect the moral cowardice and political betrayal of India’s civilisational values.”His remarks come as the US has intensified its military campaign against Iran. On Friday, US President Donald Trump indicated that Washington is nearing its objectives and may soon wind down its operations. Meanwhile, the US Central Command reported significant damage to Iranian military assets under ‘Operation Epic Fury’, including strikes on drone production facilities and naval infrastructure. Pentagon officials stated that thousands of targets have been hit in recent operations, signalling the intensification of US military actions 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 MediaVideosKerala Assembly Polls 2026: Rajeev Chandrasekhar & V Muraleedharan Files Nominations in KeralaAir India Wrong Plane Blunder Explained: Five Reasons Why Vancouver Flight U-Turn Was A Costly MistakeHigh Risk Voyage: India LPG Tankers Set To Cross Strait Of Hormuz After Diplomatic Push By Modi GovtPak Claims India Developing 12,000 Km Range Missile After US Report Places Islamabad Alongside IranAsaduddin Owaisi Slams PM Modi Over Iran War Says India Lost Neutral Voice In Global Peace EffortsMoD Reveals India Exploring Joining GCAP Or FCAS Sixth Generation Fighter ProgrammePM Modi Speaks To Bahrain King, Condemns Attacks On Energy Infra, Stresses Secure Shipping RoutesTrump Sending Troops To Strait Of Hormuz?; ‘Iran Being Decimated’: Bibi Denies Dragging U.S Into WarDiplomacy In New Avatar: Why Vikram Doraiswami Picked Chinese Name Wei Jiameng As India’s New EnvoyHow Iran’s Attack on Qatar’s Ras Laffan Gas Hub Sparks India’s Energy Emergency123Photostories5 reasons why everyone is talking about Chile right nowFrom shopping, applying mehendi to preparing the last Iftar: Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar share their Eid 2026 preparationsChallaghatta railway bridge: Bengaluru’s long-awaitedwest corridor nears completionNoida’s Botanical Garden set for makeover, visitor access halted temporarilyHow to reverse fatty liver naturally without medication: Proven diet, weight loss, and lifestyle changes that work’Don 2,’ ‘Pathaan,’ ‘Jawan’: 8 Shah Rukh Khan films that prove he is the ultimate action hero6 living tiger subspecies and where you can see them in the wildTour of Sania Mirza’s ₹13 crore Hyderabad residence; a Greek-inspired luxury villa with personal styleMargot Robbie’s most stylish looks: From Barbiecore to timeless red carpet glamour5 tips to build confidence in your child123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIga SwiatekAir India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

Jairam Ramesh NEW DELHI: Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Saturday criticised the Centre, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of ‘moral cowardice and political betrayal’ as the US-Israel conflict with Iran enters its third week.In a post on X, Ramesh highlighted that it has been over three weeks since the aerial assault on Iran began and 23 days since the PM’s visit to Israel. He alleged that the government has remained silent and failed to take any substantive diplomatic initiative to de-escalate tensions.“It has been exactly 21 days or three weeks since the aerial assault of the US and Israel on Iran began. It has also been 23 days since the PM returned from his much-trumpeted visit to Israel. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Israel pounds Tehran as Iranians mark Nowruz; UAE, Kuwait defences respond to missile barrageTrump Rules Out Ceasefire: says US nears Iran war goals; signals wider military options’Enemy has been defeated’: Iran’s Mojtaba Khamenei claims victory over US, IsraelHas the Modi Govt condemned or criticised or deplored the launch of the heavy aerial assault on Iran by the US and Israel that has now led to severe economic dislocations everywhere including India? The answer is No,” Ramesh wrote on X. The Congress leader went on to pose four-pointed questions: Has the Modi Govt condemned or criticised or deplored the targeted assassinations of top Iranian leaders by the US and Israel that continues unabated?Has the Modi Govt condemned or criticised or deplored the brutal efforts of the US and Israel to force a regime change and state collapse that could lead to civil war in Iran?Has the Modi Govt mounted serious diplomatic efforts and initiatives to bring the bombing of Iran and Iran’s attacks on energy and other essential infrastructure in the Gulf countries to an immediate halt?Has the PM used his much-claimed friendship with the US President and the Israeli PM to bring about a cease-fire?Answering all the four questions as a big ‘NO’, he further wrote in his post, “These 4 NOs reflect the moral cowardice and political betrayal of India’s civilisational values.”His remarks come as the US has intensified its military campaign against Iran. On Friday, US President Donald Trump indicated that Washington is nearing its objectives and may soon wind down its operations. Meanwhile, the US Central Command reported significant damage to Iranian military assets under ‘Operation Epic Fury’, including strikes on drone production facilities and naval infrastructure. Pentagon officials stated that thousands of targets have been hit in recent operations, signalling the intensification of US military actions 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 MediaVideosKerala Assembly Polls 2026: Rajeev Chandrasekhar & V Muraleedharan Files Nominations in KeralaAir India Wrong Plane Blunder Explained: Five Reasons Why Vancouver Flight U-Turn Was A Costly MistakeHigh Risk Voyage: India LPG Tankers Set To Cross Strait Of Hormuz After Diplomatic Push By Modi GovtPak Claims India Developing 12,000 Km Range Missile After US Report Places Islamabad Alongside IranAsaduddin Owaisi Slams PM Modi Over Iran War Says India Lost Neutral Voice In Global Peace EffortsMoD Reveals India Exploring Joining GCAP Or FCAS Sixth Generation Fighter ProgrammePM Modi Speaks To Bahrain King, Condemns Attacks On Energy Infra, Stresses Secure Shipping RoutesTrump Sending Troops To Strait Of Hormuz?; ‘Iran Being Decimated’: Bibi Denies Dragging U.S Into WarDiplomacy In New Avatar: Why Vikram Doraiswami Picked Chinese Name Wei Jiameng As India’s New EnvoyHow Iran’s Attack on Qatar’s Ras Laffan Gas Hub Sparks India’s Energy Emergency123Photostories5 reasons why everyone is talking about Chile right nowFrom shopping, applying mehendi to preparing the last Iftar: Shoaib Ibrahim and Dipika Kakar share their Eid 2026 preparationsChallaghatta railway bridge: Bengaluru’s long-awaitedwest corridor nears completionNoida’s Botanical Garden set for makeover, visitor access halted temporarilyHow to reverse fatty liver naturally without medication: Proven diet, weight loss, and lifestyle changes that work’Don 2,’ ‘Pathaan,’ ‘Jawan’: 8 Shah Rukh Khan films that prove he is the ultimate action hero6 living tiger subspecies and where you can see them in the wildTour of Sania Mirza’s ₹13 crore Hyderabad residence; a Greek-inspired luxury villa with personal styleMargot Robbie’s most stylish looks: From Barbiecore to timeless red carpet glamour5 tips to build confidence in your child123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingIga SwiatekAir India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Saturday criticised the Centre, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of ‘moral cowardice and political betrayal’ as the US-Israel conflict with Iran enters its third week.In a post on X, Ramesh highlighted that it has been over three weeks since the aerial assault on Iran began and 23 days…

Read More