Opposition intensifies protest against Chief Election Commissioner
The INDIA bloc continued protests in Delhi demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Opposition parties are objecting to the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and alleging that the process could affect voter eligibility and electoral fairness.
Security was strengthened around Jantar Mantar and nearby central Delhi areas as opposition MPs prepared for another demonstration. The dispute has moved beyond a routine political disagreement: it now involves competing claims about institutional independence, voter-list accuracy and the accountability of the Election Commission.
The government and supporters of the Election Commission reject the opposition’s allegations. The political confrontation is expected to continue as the roll-revision process advances.
Delhi Police registered a case concerning alleged assault and obstruction of official duty during the opposition protest. Police sources said Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi were among those named in connection with the incident.
The development is likely to intensify the political confrontation because the opposition has described the police action and protest restrictions as excessive. The legal question will centre on whether the evidence supports allegations of obstruction or assault and whether the protest was conducted within lawful limits.
Odisha bandh and protests over voter-roll revision
The INDIA bloc called a statewide bandh in Odisha over demands connected with the Election Commission and the state’s education administration. Reports indicated disruption to normal public activity in several areas.
The bandh reflects the spread of the voter-roll controversy beyond Delhi. Supporters describe the protests as a defence of democratic safeguards, while critics argue that a nationwide electoral issue is being used for political mobilisation and disruption.
Political pressure around Andhra Pradesh BC quota
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s decision to challenge the Andhra Pradesh High Court ruling in the Supreme Court is likely to become a major issue in the state’s political debate.
The government must balance its commitment to BC representation with the constitutional ceiling on reservations and the requirement for reliable, quantifiable data. The Supreme Court’s eventual decision could influence not only Andhra Pradesh’s local elections but also reservation policy debates in other states.
National Affairs
RBI raises repo rate
The Reserve Bank of India raised the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.50 per cent, according to reporting published during the day.
The increase is expected to place upward pressure on borrowing costs, particularly floating-rate home loans, business loans and other credit linked to external benchmarks. The policy decision reflects concern over inflation and financial stability, although it may also moderate consumption and private investment.
The reported policy outlook also included an upward revision of the FY27 growth forecast to 7.1 per cent and an inflation forecast of 5.2 per cent. citeindianexpress
Centre defends satellite-communication policy
The Ministry of Communications said India’s satellite-communication regulatory framework was non-discriminatory after SpaceX chief Elon Musk alleged that vested interests were obstructing Starlink’s entry into the Indian market.
The government stated that licences had been granted to three satellite-communication companies, including Starlink, but that security assessments remained in progress. Spectrum assignment would follow completion of the required procedures.
The dispute highlights the tension between faster connectivity for remote areas, national-security requirements and competition in the telecommunications market.
Nana Patekar dies at 75
Veteran actor Nana Patekar died in Goa at the age of 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest, according to reports. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and praised his contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema.
Patekar was known for intense performances, a distinctive screen presence and outspoken public views. His death has prompted tributes across the film industry and political circles.