VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html ‘Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayate’ lands Cannes 2026 market premiere; makers say ‘it is a celebration of culture, cinema, and faith’ Remove sticky labels from glass jars in minutes using this common ingredient | Lamborghini Fenomeno Roadster unveiled: 1,065 hp, only 15 made! Meta is laying off 8,000 employees this month, and CEO Mark Zuckerberg has a clear message for staff: We are streamlining teams so they aren’t bigger than… Philippine House Impeaches VP Sara Duterte Amid Graft Allegations | World News NEW DELHI: The AIADMK, once the unquestioned pole of Dravidian politics in Tamil Nadu, is showing visible signs of strain after its disappointing performance in the 2026 assembly elections. Just days after the party was reduced to 47 seats in the 234-member assembly, internal divisions have burst into the open, exposing disagreements over leadership, strategy and even whether the party should support the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) led by chief minister C Joseph Vijay.The first day of the new assembly itself reflected the emerging cracks. In a striking departure from long-established AIADMK convention, the party’s newly elected MLAs arrived at the assembly in two separate groups for the oath-taking ceremony on Monday.One faction, comprising former ministers KP Munusamy and Thalavai N Sundaram among others, accompanied AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS). Another camp led by former minister SP Velumani arrived separately, accompanied by former minister Dr C Vijayabaskar, news agency PTI reported. Senior leader C Ve Shanmugam, who has increasingly emerged as a focal point of dissent within the party, did not arrive with the EPS camp either.Ordinarily, AIADMK legislators enter the assembly together as a show of unity and organisational discipline — a tradition cultivated during the eras of MG Ramachandran and later J Jayalalithaa. The recent scenes, therefore, were interpreted by many in Tamil Nadu’s political circles as more than symbolic that indicated that AIADMK was struggling to maintain internal cohesion after a bruising electoral setback.The AIADMK contested 167 seats in the April 23 election but managed to win only 47, slipping further from the dominant position it once occupied in state politics. AIADMK’s vote share also slipped from 33.5% in 2021 to 21.21 in 2026 elections.The result not only denied the party power but also cost it the status of principal opposition in the assembly — a humiliation many within the organisation blame on the leadership of EPS.In the days following the election, multiple closed-door meetings were held within the party. According to AIADMK sources, those meetings quickly revealed deep disagreements over the future course of the party.One section strongly opposed any move to support Vijay’s TVK government, arguing that backing a rival regional force would weaken the AIADMK’s independent identity further. Another faction, however, favoured extending outside support to the TVK, believing that cooperation with Vijay could help the party retain political relevance and prevent further erosion of its support base.The divide has also sharpened calls for a leadership change.A few MLAs reportedly demanded that EPS step down as party chief, arguing that the AIADMK has suffered repeated electoral setbacks under his stewardship since the death of Jayalalithaa. Several senior leaders, including Velumani and Shanmugam, skipped meetings convened by EPS after the results, fuelling speculation that an organised rebellion is underway.Former AIADMK leader KC Palanisamy openly claimed there was a “clear split” in the party and urged EPS to “voluntarily step down” in order to reunite the organisation before the next election cycle.The discontent appears to stem not merely from the latest defeat, but from a larger existential anxiety within the AIADMK. Since Jayalalithaa’s death in 2016, the party has struggled to project a singular commanding figure capable of holding together its powerful regional satraps and caste-based support blocs. EPS emerged as the dominant leader after a prolonged internal battle involving O Panneerselvam and the Sasikala faction, but critics within the party say he has failed to revive the AIADMK electorally.The rise of Vijay’s TVK has only intensified that crisis. For decades, Tamil Nadu politics revolved around the DMK-AIADMK binary. The emergence of TVK as the ruling party has disrupted that framework, leaving AIADMK leaders divided over whether confrontation or accommodation offers a better path to survival.According to party insiders, Shanmugam and Velumani had floated the idea of supporting TVK immediately after the election verdict. EPS reportedly rejected the proposal initially, creating resentment among senior leaders who believed the AIADMK needed to adapt to the altered political landscape quickly.Sources said sections of the rebel camp even explored communication channels with TVK leaders. One AIADMK leader claimed that Shanmugam reached out to TVK general secretary N Anand to convey willingness among some MLAs to back Vijay’s government.However, TVK’s response reportedly complicated matters further. According to AIADMK sources, Vijay was unwilling to accept mere outside support from AIADMK legislators while they retained their party identity. Instead, he was said to have insisted that any MLA wanting to support TVK should resign and seek re-election under the TVK’s ‘whistle’ symbol.That proposal appears to have alarmed many AIADMK legislators. While some are reportedly open to tactical cooperation with TVK, few are willing to resign and risk by-elections, fearing backlash from their constituencies and uncertainty over their political future.Even as rumours of rebellion gathered momentum, AIADMK leaders publicly attempted damage control.Party MLA Esakki Subaya dismissed reports of a crisis and insisted the AIADMK remained united and intact. “Everything is going well within the party. No one can break the party,” he told reporters outside the assembly.He denied claims of widespread dissatisfaction and termed reports of a split as “false news,” while also brushing aside questions regarding a possible leadership change.Yet, political observers note that such public assertions are common in Tamil Nadu politics during moments of internal churn. The more telling developments, they argue, lie in the visible separation of leaders, parallel meetings and coordinated absenteeism from EPS-led events.Political analyst Sathyalaya Ramakrishnan told news agency PTI that the situation remained fluid and could still be resolved if senior leaders prioritised unity. “I feel till now the party is united since all the AIADMK MLAs were sitting together in the assembly. The senior leaders of the AIADMK must ensure that there is no split in the party,” he said.Still, the challenge before AIADMK is formidable. Beyond immediate leadership questions, the party faces a deeper ideological and structural dilemma: how to redefine itself in a post-Jayalalithaa era where a new political force has captured public imagination.For EPS, the coming weeks may prove decisive. If he manages to retain the loyalty of most MLAs, he could survive this latest bout of dissent. But if more legislators drift towards the Velumani-Shanmugam camp, the AIADMK could witness yet another internal rupture since Jayalalithaa’s death.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’Is That Entirely Fair And Democratic? Shashi Tharoor Questions SIR’s Role In BJP’s Massive VictoryNEET ‘Guess Paper’ Probe: Rajasthan Police Investigate Claims Of 140 Questions Matching Exam PaperIAF’s Surya Kiran Team Performs Grand Air Show Over Somnath Temple During PM Modi’s VisitEye On 2027 UP Polls, BJP Expands Yogi Cabinet With Strong OBC-Dalit OutreachChandranath Rath Murder: 3 Arrested As SIT Probes Interstate Network | Suvendu Adhikari’s AideRahul Gandhi Calls PM Modi’s Austerity Appeal “Proof Of Failure”, Congress Seeks AnswersWhy Congress Still Hasn’t Named Kerala’s Chief Minister Despite Massive VictorySanjeev Arora Sent To ED Custody In ₹157 Crore Money Laundering Case, AAP Alleges Political VendettaShashi Tharoor Raises Questions Over SIR, Claims “91 Lakh Names Were Deleted” In BengalCongress Alleges Rahul Gandhi’s Viral Reel With Vijay Was Blocked, Centre Denies Any Role123PhotostoriesStop throwing away Paneer Whey (Paneer ka Paani): 6 smart uses you should knowSuccess quote of the day by Plato, the Father of Western philosophy: “One of the penalties of refusing to participate in politics is that…”Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif love story: From a chance meeting at Zoya Akhtar’s party to celebrating first Mother’s Day with son Vihaan7 fascinating snakes that give birth to live young instead of laying eggs5 things children learn when their feelings are ignoredFrom Bollywood-inspired bedroom to luxe living room and 3 balconies with stunning views: Inside Samarth Jurel’s lavish houseConstipated? 5 gastroenterologist-approved drinks that will help you poop daily5 everyday simple beauty habits that can actually improve your skinMove over royal portraits, as Sonam Kapoor Ahuja just introduced baby Rudralokh in a head-to-toe Anamika Khanna drama7 plants that will survive in your garden, even if you forget giving them water123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview The Beatles Museum London: New 7-storey experience to open at iconic Savile Row location American Tourist Plea To Modi: An American tourist pleads with PM Narendra Modi for an Adhaar Card and the reason is…. Explosives at PM Modi convoy route: NIA team leaves for Bengaluru a day after the scare NEW DELHI: Newly appointed West Bengal chief minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday chaired his first cabinet meeting and took six decisions, ending the deadlock between the state and Centre that had led to the stalling or outright rejection of several key initiatives.After the cabinet meeting, Adhikari said that the new journey of good governance, security and double-engine government in West Bengal would move forward on the same path of development followed in other BJP-ruled states across the country. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the ideals of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar and the principle of “For the People, By the People, Of the People.”“We took six decisions at the Cabinet. We are committed towards the well-being of 321 families of martyrs who laid down their lives as BJP supporters,” Suvendu said.Here are the decisions the Bengal government tookBSF to get land for border fencing in 45 daysGiving priority to border security, the government approved the process of handing over the required land to the BSF. The chief secretary and the land and land reforms department have been directed to complete the process within 45 days.”We started the land transfer process to the BSF for securing borders. The land will be handed over within 45 days,” Adhikari said.Rollout of all central schemesThe West Bengal government has also officially decided to join the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The health secretary and advisers to the chief minister’s office have been directed to complete the necessary agreement with the Union health ministry at the earliest.The process has begun to actively implement major central government schemes in the state, including Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Krishak Bima Yojana, PM SHRI, Vishwakarma Scheme, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Ujjwala Yojana. District magistrates have been instructed to expedite the forwarding of all applications to the concerned Union ministries.IAS, IPS officers cleared for central trainingAs part of administrative reforms, IAS officers in the state will now participate in central government training programmes in line with practices followed in other states, the release said. The government has also decided to fully align West Bengal with the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.“West Bengal government officials will participate in training programmes conducted by the Central government. The previous government had not allowed officials to participate in the scheme,” he said.Age limit for govt jobs increasedAdhikari also announced that the cabinet had decided to increase the upper age limit for government job applications by five years to improve employment opportunities for educated youth.Carrying out census as per Centre’s directiveThe chief minister stated that the previous government had failed to implement the Union home ministry’s directive dated June 16, 2025, regarding the census process. The present government has immediately enforced the pending administrative circular.“A letter was sent by the ministry of home affairs on June 16, 2025, for carrying out the census as per the Government of India directive. The previous government kept sitting on the file; we are starting the census in West Bengal,” Adhikari said.”This government does not function on ego; it functions on principles.” Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message of “Fear Out, Trust In,” he stated that the new government is committed to ensuring security, confidence and development for the people of West Bengal,” he added.Reiterating the government’s commitment towards national security, the chief minister assured that all land required by the BSF would be provided. He stated that the previous government had ignored directives of the Central government and the courts in order to protect illegal infiltrators.Legal aide for victims of political strugglesSpeaking on political violence, Adhikari said the government was prepared to investigate cases linked to the deaths of party workers during “political struggles” if the families sought legal action.”Regarding the 321 individuals who lost their lives during our struggle: if their families desire, the government will initiate an investigation,” he added.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’Is That Entirely Fair And Democratic? Shashi Tharoor Questions SIR’s Role In BJP’s Massive VictoryNEET ‘Guess Paper’ Probe: Rajasthan Police Investigate Claims Of 140 Questions Matching Exam PaperIAF’s Surya Kiran Team Performs Grand Air Show Over Somnath Temple During PM Modi’s VisitEye On 2027 UP Polls, BJP Expands Yogi Cabinet With Strong OBC-Dalit OutreachChandranath Rath Murder: 3 Arrested As SIT Probes Interstate Network | Suvendu Adhikari’s AideRahul Gandhi Calls PM Modi’s Austerity Appeal “Proof Of Failure”, Congress Seeks AnswersWhy Congress Still Hasn’t Named Kerala’s Chief Minister Despite Massive VictorySanjeev Arora Sent To ED Custody In ₹157 Crore Money Laundering Case, AAP Alleges Political VendettaShashi Tharoor Raises Questions Over SIR, Claims “91 Lakh Names Were Deleted” In BengalCongress Alleges Rahul Gandhi’s Viral Reel With Vijay Was Blocked, Centre Denies Any Role123PhotostoriesVicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif love story: From a chance meeting at Zoya Akhtar’s party to celebrating first Mother’s Day with son Vihaan7 fascinating snakes that give birth to live young instead of laying eggs5 things children learn when their feelings are ignoredFrom Bollywood-inspired bedroom to luxe living room and 3 balconies with stunning views: Inside Samarth Jurel’s lavish houseConstipated? 5 gastroenterologist-approved drinks that will help you poop daily5 everyday simple beauty habits that can actually improve your skinMove over royal portraits, as Sonam Kapoor Ahuja just introduced baby Rudralokh in a head-to-toe Anamika Khanna drama7 plants that will survive in your garden, even if you forget giving them waterDrinking beer helps remove kidney stones? What doctors say about this viral trendA bowl of pomegranate for breakfast: Why it should be a lifelong habit123Hot PicksSBI Q4 resultsThane- Navi Mumbai corridorMaharashtra SSC ResultPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview IPL 2026 | ‘We’ll make a decision’: Mumbai Indians provide big update on Hardik Pandya | Cricket News Why PM Modi wants Indians to avoid buying gold for a year AP ICET 2026 result date announced: Check complete details here ‘Raja Shivaji’ box office collection day 11 [LIVE]: Riteish Deshmukh film set to cross Rs. 75 crore milestone in second week 5 things children learn when their feelings are ignored Apara Ekadashi 2026: Date, parana time, puja rituals and significance Meet Kuljeet Kaur Marhas: First Indian woman elected Fellow of The Meteoritical Society for pioneering planetary research ‘Worth fighting for’: Krunal Pandya’s painful scar photo goes viral after RCB-MI thriller | Cricket News File photo NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Monday asked former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee to file a fresh plea related to victory margin being less than deletion of votes in the Speical Intensive Reivison (SIR), which was one of the burning poll planks of the outsed TMC.A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi took note of the submissions after senior advocate and TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee alleged that in 31 seats, victory margins were less than the number of votes deleted during the roll revision.The Election Commission opposed the arguments, stating that the proper remedy was an election petition and that concerns related to the SIR, including appeals over addition or deletion of votes, could be addressed through the poll panel.This is a developing story…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 MediaVideosEye On 2027 UP Polls, BJP Expands Yogi Cabinet With Strong OBC-Dalit OutreachChandranath Rath Murder: 3 Arrested As SIT Probes Interstate Network | Suvendu Adhikari’s AideRahul Gandhi Calls PM Modi’s Austerity Appeal “Proof Of Failure”, Congress Seeks AnswersWhy Congress Still Hasn’t Named Kerala’s Chief Minister Despite Massive VictorySanjeev Arora Sent To ED Custody In ₹157 Crore Money Laundering Case, AAP Alleges Political VendettaShashi Tharoor Raises Questions Over SIR, Claims “91 Lakh Names Were Deleted” In BengalCongress Alleges Rahul Gandhi’s Viral Reel With Vijay Was Blocked, Centre Denies Any Role‘Use Petrol Sparingly’: PM Modi Calls For WFH, Carpooling Amid West Asia WarFormer Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee’s Anti-BJP Unity Call Rejected By Left, Congress In Bengal TwistWill Vijay Join INDIA Bloc? ‘Secular’ Speech Sparks Fresh Political Speculation | Watch123Photostories7 fascinating snakes that give birth to live young instead of laying eggsFrom Bollywood-inspired bedroom to luxe living room and 3 balconies with stunning views: Inside Samarth Jurel’s lavish houseConstipated? 5 gastroenterologist-approved drinks that will help you poop daily5 everyday simple beauty habits that can actually improve your skinMove over royal portraits, as Sonam Kapoor Ahuja just introduced baby Rudralokh in a head-to-toe Anamika Khanna drama7 plants that will survive in your garden, even if you forget giving them waterDrinking beer helps remove kidney stones? What doctors say about this viral trendA bowl of pomegranate for breakfast: Why it should be a lifelong habit5 effective ways to help remove termites and save your wooden interiors just in time10 common phrases fathers often use without realising how deeply they affect children123Hot PicksSBI Q4 resultsThane- Navi Mumbai corridorMaharashtra SSC ResultPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaWho is Urvil Patel FatherIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview ‘Chand Mera Dil’ trailer: Ananya Panday and Lakshya battle past mistakes in this intense romance drama – Watch Soft Skills For Children: Future-ready parenting: 5 soft skills children need more than marks Hezbollah’s FPV drones, explained: Why Israel is struggling to counter them Meet Jessica Watson: The 16-year-old sailor who survived brutal oceans alone for 210 days after a terrifying cargo ship collision | World News NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday accused first PM Jawaharlal Nehru of “prioritising appeasement over national self-respect”, claiming that he “opposed” the restoration of the Somnath Temple. Speaking at Somnath Amrit Mahotsav, the prime minister credited Congress stalwarts Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Dr Rajendra Prasad for devoting themselves for restoring the temple in Gujarat.”Following our Independence, one of the very first duties undertaken was the restoration of the Somnath Temple. That is why Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Dr Rajendra Prasad devoted such immense effort to this cause. Yet, we all know the extent of the opposition he had to face from Nehru ji. It was Sardar Sahab’s willpower that, despite facing such fierce opposition, he remained unwavering in his resolve regarding Somnath,” he said.”Consequently, the temple was rebuilt, and the nation washed away a stigma that had persisted for centuries. Unfortunately, there are still forces active in our country today that prioritise appeasement over national self-respect,” he added.He went on to slam Congress for opposing the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya.”We have witnessed this even during occasions such as the construction of the Ram Temple. We have seen how even the construction of the Ram Temple faced opposition. We must remain vigilant against such a mindset. We must move forward by taking development and heritage together,” he said.Somnath Amrit Mahotsav marks 75 years since the restored Somnath Temple was inaugurated by India’s first President Rajendra Prasad. Earlier in the day, PM Modi held a roadshow.The event drew large crowds of supporters who lined the route to greet the prime minister, while authorities deployed extensive security arrangements at key points across the city.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 MediaVideosEye On 2027 UP Polls, BJP Expands Yogi Cabinet With Strong OBC-Dalit OutreachChandranath Rath Murder: 3 Arrested As SIT Probes Interstate Network | Suvendu Adhikari’s AideRahul Gandhi Calls PM Modi’s Austerity Appeal “Proof Of Failure”, Congress Seeks AnswersWhy Congress Still Hasn’t Named Kerala’s Chief Minister Despite Massive VictorySanjeev Arora Sent To ED Custody In ₹157 Crore Money Laundering Case, AAP Alleges Political VendettaShashi Tharoor Raises Questions Over SIR, Claims “91 Lakh Names Were Deleted” In BengalCongress Alleges Rahul Gandhi’s Viral Reel With Vijay Was Blocked, Centre Denies Any Role‘Use Petrol Sparingly’: PM Modi Calls For WFH, Carpooling Amid West Asia WarFormer Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee’s Anti-BJP Unity Call Rejected By Left, Congress In Bengal TwistWill Vijay Join INDIA Bloc? ‘Secular’ Speech Sparks Fresh Political Speculation | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom Bollywood-inspired bedroom to luxe living room and 3 balconies with stunning views: Inside Samarth Jurel’s lavish houseConstipated? 5 gastroenterologist-approved drinks that will help you poop daily5 everyday simple beauty habits that can actually improve your skinMove over royal portraits, as Sonam Kapoor Ahuja just introduced baby Rudralokh in a head-to-toe Anamika Khanna drama7 plants that will survive in your garden, even if you forget giving them waterDrinking beer helps remove kidney stones? What doctors say about this viral trendA bowl of pomegranate for breakfast: Why it should be a lifelong habit5 effective ways to help remove termites and save your wooden interiors just in time10 common phrases fathers often use without realising how deeply they affect childrenPersonality test: The lamp you choose reveals the kind of coworker you are123Hot PicksSBI Q4 resultsThane- Navi Mumbai corridorMaharashtra SSC ResultPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaWho is Urvil Patel FatherIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview May 11, 2026, 14:42 IST No plan to hike gold and silver import duties, US-India trade talks expected soon: Govt source UP Lekhpal City Intimation Slip 2026 released for 7,994 posts at upsssc.gov.in; download here ‘There are no small roles, only small actors’: Kubbra Sait recalls how Salman Khan helped shape her role in ‘Ready’ Everest Base Camp: Kerala student reaches Everest Base Camp on just ₹16,000 after working at a vegetable shop NASA’s Psyche spacecraft captures a haunting crescent view of Mars before a dramatic May 15 flyby The story behind Pokhran: How one ‘peaceful explosion’ in 1974 made India a nuclear power by 1998 Hantavirus scare: British passengers evacuated from virus-hit cruise ship to isolate for 45 days From Annadurai to Vijay: How ‘Aachi’ Manorama is the only actress to share screen space with 7 Chief Ministers Inside the diary ChatGPT-maker co-founder Greg Brockman wrote for himself, and how it became the star witness in the Musk vs OpenAI trial ‘Adds a little brightness to my day’: Heartfelt note left by homeless man in UK village library goes viral ‘Best after Bumrah!’ Dinesh Karthik’s old Bhuvneshwar Kumar verdict goes viral after MI masterclass Haryana D.El.Ed. admissions 2026 registration closes today for diploma education course; apply here Who is Eniko Hart? Everything about Kevin Hart’s wife, career, their 15-year journey and how they rebuilt their marriage English rhymes ‘Johnny Johnny’, ‘Rain Rain Go Away’ promote lying, selfishness: UP mantri Dubai Smart Bus Station: Dubai launches first AI-powered smart bus station at Mall of the Emirates with 24/7 digital services | World News NEW DELHI: Opposition parties on Monday upped the ante against Prime Minister Narendra Modi for urging citizens to reduce fuel and edible oil consumption amid the ongoing West Asia crisis, claiming that fuel prices are set to rise now that assembly elections are over.This comes after PM Modi urged people to reduce edible oil usage, adopt public transport, car-pooling and electric vehicles, and shift towards natural farming practices to reduce dependence on imports and save foreign currency. Watch Rahul Gandhi Calls PM Modi’s Austerity Appeal “Proof Of Failure”, Congress Seeks AnswersCalling it a form of “economic self-defence,” PM Modi said patriotism today meant responsible living and mindful consumption in the face of global supply chain disruptions and rising fuel prices caused by conflicts in West Asia.Who said whatRahul GandhiIn a social media post on X, leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said PM Modi’s appeal exposed the limits of his decade-long tenure.”Yesterday, Modi ji asked the public to make sacrifices — don’t buy gold, don’t go abroad, use less petrol, cut down on fertiliser and cooking oil, take the metro, work from home. These aren’t sermons — they’re proof of failure,” Rahul Gandhi said.Read Also: PM Modi pushes for cut in fuel use & gold buying, favours WFH”In 12 years, he’s brought the country to such a pass that the public now has to be told what to buy, what not to buy, where to go and where not to go. Every time, they shift the responsibility onto the people just so they can wriggle out of accountability themselves. Running the country is no longer within the remit of a compromised PM,” he added.’Until the elections, Modi ji bore your burdens’Reacting to PM Modi’s remarks, AAP MP Sanjay Singh alleged that ordinary people were being asked to bear the burden in the name of patriotism.”Dear fellow countrymen, until the elections, Modi ji bore your burdens; once the elections are over, your utility is done. Now, in the name of patriotism, get in line. Gas has become expensive; now petrol and diesel will also get costlier. In the name of patriotism, you must stop using petrol, diesel and gas; don’t buy gold; don’t even use cooking oil,” Singh said.He further alleged double standards in the government’s approach and criticised the Prime Minister’s public events and foreign visits.”But Modi ji will bring lakhs of people to his rallies in droves, go on foreign trips, burn plenty of fuel; his people won’t just buy gold — they’ll snap up the entire nation’s wealth — but you keep playing the fool. And yes, if you can’t stomach Modi ji’s inflation, the blind devotees and lapdog media will declare you a Pakistani,” the AAP leader added.Akhilesh YadavMeanwhile, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the BJP government had failed in handling both the economy and foreign policy, calling its appeal an “admission of failure”.In a post on X, Akhilesh said, “As soon as elections are over, the government suddenly remembered the ‘crisis’. In reality, there is only one crisis for the country and its name is BJP.”The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister questioned how the country would achieve the goal of becoming a “five trillion dollar economy” if the government was forced to impose several restrictions.”So many restrictions are being imposed, then how will the much-publicised ‘five trillion dollar economy’ become a reality? It appears the BJP government has completely lost control,” he said.Claiming that the rupee was weakening sharply against the dollar, Yadav alleged that the BJP government’s economic management had collapsed.”The dollar is touching the sky while the Indian rupee is sinking deeper,” he said.He also blamed the Centre’s foreign policy for the present economic situation, alleging that the BJP government had moved away from India’s traditional non-aligned approach.”The real reason behind these conditions is the BJP government abandoning the country’s traditional policy of non-alignment and aligning itself with certain groups due to specific pressures and interests,” he said.BJP hits backBJP countered Rahul Gandhi and claimed that Congress’ politics has remained confined to power and not nation-building.In a post on X, BJP IT department head Amit Malviya said Modi had not asked people to make sacrifices but urged them to make conscious choices in the national interest, such as conserving energy, promoting indigenous products, preserving foreign exchange and strengthening self-reliance.”But this is precisely Congress’ problem. Any call for public participation in the national interest sounds like ‘preaching’ to them, because their politics has remained confined to power, not nation-building,” he said.Referring to the impact of the West Asia conflict, Malviya said every global crisis affects the entire world and cited India’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru to counter Gandhi’s attack.”If appealing to the public to fulfil its responsibility is considered a ‘failure’, then was your beloved Nehru also a ‘compromised PM’?” he asked.”Nehru himself had said that when wars break out in other countries, their impact is felt in India in the form of inflation. Was that also an ‘excuse’ then, or was it considered responsible leadership at the time?” Malviya said.He also shared an old purported video of Nehru in which the former prime minister can be heard saying that the country is impacted when wars take place in countries such as Korea or America.He added that responsible leadership tells people the truth and appeals for collective participation in facing challenges.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 MediaVideosEye On 2027 UP Polls, BJP Expands Yogi Cabinet With Strong OBC-Dalit OutreachChandranath Rath Murder: 3 Arrested As SIT Probes Interstate Network | Suvendu Adhikari’s AideRahul Gandhi Calls PM Modi’s Austerity Appeal “Proof Of Failure”, Congress Seeks AnswersWhy Congress Still Hasn’t Named Kerala’s Chief Minister Despite Massive VictorySanjeev Arora Sent To ED Custody In ₹157 Crore Money Laundering Case, AAP Alleges Political VendettaShashi Tharoor Raises Questions Over SIR, Claims “91 Lakh Names Were Deleted” In BengalCongress Alleges Rahul Gandhi’s Viral Reel With Vijay Was Blocked, Centre Denies Any Role‘Use Petrol Sparingly’: PM Modi Calls For WFH, Carpooling Amid West Asia WarFormer Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee’s Anti-BJP Unity Call Rejected By Left, Congress In Bengal TwistWill Vijay Join INDIA Bloc? ‘Secular’ Speech Sparks Fresh Political Speculation | Watch123PhotostoriesMove over royal portraits, as Sonam Kapoor Ahuja just introduced baby Rudralokh in a head-to-toe Anamika Khanna drama7 plants that will survive in your garden, even if you forget giving them waterDrinking beer helps remove kidney stones? What doctors say about this viral trendA bowl of pomegranate for breakfast: Why it should be a lifelong habit5 effective ways to help remove termites and save your wooden interiors just in time10 common phrases fathers often use without realising how deeply they affect childrenPersonality test: The lamp you choose reveals the kind of coworker you areInsideTrisha Krishnan’s aesthetically designed home with artistic vibesThe spiritual way to eat: BK Shivani on food, energy, and emotional balancePM Modi urges Indian to reduce cooking oil consumption by 10%: 8 smart kitchen tips for Indian homes123Hot PicksSBI Q4 resultsThane- Navi Mumbai corridorMaharashtra SSC ResultPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaWho is Urvil Patel FatherIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview IPL 2026 | ‘Mahi bhai just said one thing … ‘: Urvil Patel reveals MS Dhoni’s advice after hitting 13-ball fifty Gold, Silver Rate Today Live Updates: Gold prices fall to $4,684.32 per ounce in international market amid rising geopolitical tensions GGSIPU introduces seven new healthcare courses, admissions open for 2026 session: Check details here Mother’s Day: Jennifer Lopez pens an emotional note for her mom – ‘You’re the person I call in the middle of the night’ Jonathan The Tortoise Diet: What does 194-year-old Jonathan the tortoise eat? Inside his pampered daily diet routine BlackRock CEO Larry Fink disagrees with everyone who says there is AI bubble; says: It’s actually the opposite, as we have severe shortage of … Why are Greek island houses painted blue and white: The surprising history has more to do with survival than beauty | World News Ashwini Vaishnaw reiterates PM Modi’s call to cut gold purchases: ‘Do whatever best you can’ Assam Rifles recruitment 2026: Offline application window for 117 posts closes today; check details here