Politics — Page 31
Elections, government, public policy, diplomacy and geopolitical action
Madras High Court Reserves Order on Plea to Quash TASMAC Tender Irregularities FIR
The Madras High Court has reserved its verdict on a petition seeking to quash a First Information Report (FIR) concerning alleged irregularities in Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) tenders. The plea challenges the Prevention of Corruption Act's provision allowing arrest without prior

Kerala BJP Calls for CBI Probe into Alleged Messi Visit Irregularities
The BJP in Kerala has demanded a CBI investigation into alleged financial and procedural irregularities concerning a previous government's plan to host Lionel Messi and the Argentina football team. Senior leader S. Suresh cited potential swindling of funds and misuse of the state government's name.

Drug Kingpin Virender Singh Basoya Extradited From UAE to India
Virender Singh Basoya, accused of masterminding a multi-crore drug syndicate, was extradited from Dubai to India on August 14, 2026. This event is seen as a significant step in India's campaign against drug trafficking.

Kharge Questions Government on Alleged Chinese Activity in Arunachal Pradesh
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has demanded answers from the Indian government regarding alleged increased Chinese presence and activity in sensitive areas of Arunachal Pradesh. He specifically questioned the status of patrolling points and access to traditional lands.

Parliament Passes 12 Bills Amidst Disruptions; Five Hold Significant Impact
During the Monsoon Session, India's Parliament passed 12 bills, with five identified as having direct impact on daily life, despite significant disruptions. Legislation covers areas from exam malpractice and small businesses to banking and mining.
India, Pakistan Name Each Other Greatest Geopolitical Threat: Survey
A Pew Research survey reveals that majorities in both India and Pakistan perceive each other as their primary geopolitical threat. The findings highlight deep-seated distrust between the two South Asian nations.

Kerala Police Stations Reimagined as Citizen Service Hubs
Kerala has launched the 'My Police Station' project to transform police stations into accessible, citizen-friendly service centers. The initiative aims to foster a sense of ownership and support among the public while addressing evolving crime challenges.

Bar Council Faces Criticism Over NALSAR Student Enrolment Reversal
The Bar Council of India's reversal on barring NALSAR University's 2026 graduates from enrolment has drawn criticism. The student wing of RSS called the approach 'deeply flawed' and arbitrary.
‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ Rallies Held in Ongole and Nellore Ahead of Independence Day
Rallies celebrating the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' program were organized in Ongole and Nellore districts on Thursday and Wednesday respectively. These events featured thousands of participants, including students and government officials, carrying national flags.
Amaravati on High Alert: Enhanced Security for Independence Day Events
Amaravati police are implementing stringent security measures for Independence Day celebrations at Rayapudi. The arrangements include extensive checks and potential traffic diversions to ensure the safety of attendees and the public.
Vizianagaram Sees Increased Participation in 'Har Ghar Tiranga' Campaign
The 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign is experiencing growing engagement in Vizianagaram, with residents encouraged to display the national flag. Political figures and officials are actively participating, promoting awareness of national heritage.
Bengal Withdraws Award Over MP's Derogatory Remarks on Netaji Bose
West Bengal's government withdrew a civilian honor from MP Nagendra Roy after his controversial remarks labeling Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose a "war criminal". The incident sparked widespread protests and calls for action against the BJP MP.
NHRC Demands Report on CRPF Suicides Following 19 Deaths in 2026
The National Human Rights Commission has issued notices to India's Home Ministry and CRPF over the suicides of 19 personnel this year. The commission seeks details on circumstances and preventative measures.

Kerala Govt Approves PMAY Housing Beneficiary Contribution of 25%
The UDF government in Kerala has agreed to the Union government's stipulation for beneficiaries of the second phase of the PMAY-Urban scheme to contribute 25% of the project cost. This marks a departure from previous practices where no beneficiary share was required for housing projects in the state

Sukhbir Badal Undergoes 90-Minute Surgery After Attack in Nanded
Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal underwent a 90-minute surgery following an attack at a gurudwara in Nanded, Maharashtra. Doctors stated his condition is stable after treatment for a tendon injury and a penetrating wound.

Kerala Vigilance Arrests Tahsildar, Two Others in ₹10 Lakh Bribery Scheme
Kerala's Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau arrested a tahsildar and two alleged middlemen in a ₹10 lakh bribery case. The arrests have revealed a scheme involving officials and agents extorting property owners over alleged violations.

Jharkhand students protest exam irregularities, plan Independence Day rally
Jharkhand students protesting alleged irregularities in recruitment exams have continued their demonstration for 21 days. They plan a 'Tiranga Yatra' on India's Independence Day to bolster their movement.
Minister Claims DMK Shifting to Direct Alliance with BJP
Minister R. Nirmalkumar alleged that the DMK has transitioned from a "covert" to a "direct" alliance with the BJP. He stated this move aims to protect the DMK's "ill-gotten wealth" and follows past instances of political maneuvering.

Supreme Court Halts High Court Order on Jobs for Stampede Victims' Kin
The Supreme Court has stayed a Madras High Court ruling that quashed government job appointments for the families of victims of the Karur stampede. The High Court had cited constitutional rights and existing appointment guidelines.

Supreme Court Rebukes Bar Council Over NALSAR Student Enrolment Freeze
The Supreme Court has strongly condemned the Bar Council of India's (BCI) circular that halted the enrolment of NALSAR University graduates as advocates. The court stated students have a right to protest and questioned the BCI's authority over students' futures.

G. S. Patil Elected Karnataka Assembly Speaker Amid Opposition Boycott
Congress MLA G. S. Patil was elected Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly on August 14, following a voice vote. The BJP and JD(S) boycotted the election, protesting the ruling Congress's process for naming the candidate.

SAAP Chairman Alleges 48,442 OMR Sheets Replaced in Group-I Exam
Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh chairman A. Ravi Naidu accused the YSR Congress Party of using the DSC-2025 recruitment to divert attention from an alleged APPSC scam. He stated that 48,442 OMR sheets were replaced in Group-I examinations.

Protest Turns Violent in Ambala, Injuring Six Police Officers
A protest demanding action against Gursimran Singh Mand, national president of the International Anti-Khalistani Terrorist Front, turned violent in Ambala on Thursday, August 13, 2026. Six police personnel, including a DSP, were injured when protesters allegedly blocked the Delhi-Amritsar National H
Karnataka Gutka Ban Withdrawal Demanded by MP, Cites Farmer Impact
Shivamogga MP B.Y. Raghavendra has demanded the Karnataka government withdraw its one-year ban on gutka and pan masala within 24 hours. He claims the ban harms arecanut farmers and was influenced by cigarette companies.