Politics

Union Minister Smriti Irani recently reflected on her multifaceted career, spanning from a prominent television actress to a leading figure in Indian politics. Speaking candidly, Irani highlighted the challenges and opportunities that shaped her journey, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to public service. She credited her entertainment background with honing communication skills and connecting with diverse audiences, which later proved invaluable in political campaigns and governance.

Arunachal Pradesh, India’s northeastern frontier state, has been in the spotlight due to a series of developments spanning political initiatives, infrastructure projects, and public welfare programs. From strategic policy decisions by local administration to significant investments aimed at improving connectivity and healthcare access, the state is witnessing transformative changes. These developments reflect a concerted effort to balance regional growth, security imperatives, and socio-economic upliftment.

The recent floods in Punjab have left behind a trail of devastation, disrupting lives, agriculture, and local economies. On Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited Amritsar to survey the damage and interact with affected communities. His visit aimed to highlight the hardships faced by residents and farmers, while also pressing for swift government intervention to mitigate losses.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Manipur has sparked sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who argue that his presence in the strife-torn state was more symbolic than substantive. Senior Congress figures, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge, accused the prime minister of failing to uphold the tradition of empathetic leadership displayed by previous Indian heads of government during times of crisis.

C. P. Radhakrishnan formally assumed office as the 15th Vice President of India, marking a significant moment in the country’s political history. The swearing-in ceremony, held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, was presided over by President Droupadi Murmu and attended by senior political leaders, dignitaries, and members of Parliament. His elevation to the second-highest constitutional office comes after decades of public service and political experience, highlighting his journey from regional leadership to the national stage.

In a significant political development in Punjab, the state Congress has formally rejected the proposed compensation of Rs 20,000 per acre for farmers affected by recent crop damage. The party contends that the amount is insufficient to cover the losses incurred due to natural calamities and rising input costs, urging the state and central governments to reassess the package. Farmers’ representatives have voiced concerns over delayed disbursements and inadequate support for rehabilitating affected agricultural areas.

Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra, an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator from Punjab, has found himself at the center of a political storm as he reportedly evades arrest by the state’s own police force. The unusual episode, where a ruling party MLA faces action from his government’s machinery, has sparked widespread debate over political accountability and internal rifts. While authorities have not fully disclosed the charges, the case underscores tensions within the state’s governance model.

Punjab ministers have come under intense political scrutiny after videos emerged showing them discussing overseas and domestic leisure trips while conducting flood inspections. The incident, occurring during ongoing relief operations in flood-affected regions, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, with both BJP and Congress accusing the government of insensitivity toward disaster-hit citizens. Analysts argue that such missteps can undermine public trust and distract from urgent crisis management.

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has publicly criticized the government’s new health model, arguing that it falls short in addressing systemic issues and equitable access to healthcare. Party leaders highlighted concerns over infrastructure inadequacies, resource allocation, and the effectiveness of proposed schemes in rural and semi-urban areas. They urged the government to adopt a more inclusive and decentralized approach, emphasizing preventive care, transparency, and public accountability.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has accused the central government of deliberately obstructing the distribution of free ration to approximately 5.5 million beneficiaries in the state. Speaking at a public forum, CM Mann claimed that bureaucratic hurdles and policy roadblocks from the Centre were undermining the state’s welfare initiatives aimed at providing essential food support to vulnerable populations. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between the state and central authorities over social welfare programs and resource allocation.