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Delhi High Court: ED Dismisses Arvind Kejriwal’s Allegation of Arrest Linked to Elections


1. Delhi High Court reserves judgment on Arvind Kejriwal’s arrest plea.
2. Enforcement Directorate denies arrest linked to polls claim.
3. Kejriwal’s plea argues against disruption of the ‘level playing field’ during elections.


New Delhi, April 03: The Delhi High Court has reserved its judgment on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s plea challenging his arrest and remand regarding the capital’s Delhi excise policy.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has refuted Kejriwal’s claims that his arrest during the Lok Sabha elections disrupts the ‘level playing field’ and violates the basic structure.

During the court proceedings, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju, representing the ED, argued against Kejriwal’s assertions. Here are ten points raised by the ED in court:

  1. ASG Raju criticized Kejriwal’s argument that his arrest would infringe on the basic structure. He stated that being a chief minister doesn’t exempt one from arrest for alleged crimes. Raju questioned the notion that one could loot the country with impunity just because elections are approaching.
  2. The ED expressed a dilemma regarding attaching properties in the case, fearing accusations of bias due to the timing of the elections.
  3. The investigation against Kejriwal is stated to be in its early stages, contrary to arguments suggesting its completion.
  4. Raju claimed Kejriwal’s challenge of the arrest is a case of “waiver & acquiescence,” questioning the dual stance of challenging the remand order while seeking court intervention.
  5. The ED argued that even if previous orders were set aside, Kejriwal’s custody remains based on the latest order, making the challenge an academic exercise.
  6. The ED asserted that the scam involving ₹100 crore, which deprived the exchequer and the public, is undeniable. It dismissed claims that the ED’s actions are politically motivated.
  7. Raju argued that Kejriwal, despite portraying himself as a saint, is tactfully involved in the matter, both individually and vicariously.
  8. The ASG pointed out instances where Kejriwal claimed ignorance regarding financial matters, alleging concealment and strategic evasion.
  9. The ED emphasized that concealment can take various forms, including transferring money abroad and denying knowledge when questioned.
  10. Raju informed the court about the existence of evidence such as WhatsApp chats, hawala operation statements, and substantial income tax data, refuting Kejriwal’s assertion of a lack of new material.

Also Read: Pema Khandu Criticizes Congress Over Religious Card in Arunachal LS Polls

The arguments presented by the ED underscore a contentious legal battle, highlighting the complexities surrounding Kejriwal’s arrest and the allegations against him.

Pema Khandu Criticizes Congress Over Religious Card in Arunachal LS Polls


1. Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) endorses Congress candidates for Arunachal Pradesh’s parliamentary seats.
2. Shri Bosiram Siram and Shri Nabam Tuki receive official backing from ACF for the elections.
3. ACF’s endorsement sets the stage for a potentially competitive electoral contest in Arunachal Pradesh.


Itanagar, April 03: In the lead-up to the 2024 parliamentary elections in Arunachal Pradesh, the Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF) has thrown its support behind the Congress party’s candidates.

The ACF, through a circular dated March 26, 2024, officially endorsed Shri Bosiram Siram for the East Arunachal parliamentary constituency and Shri Nabam Tuki for the West Arunachal parliamentary constituency.

The circular urged all member organizations and denominational groups affiliated with ACF to rally behind Siram and Tuki’s candidatures.


Also Read: Renowned Boxer Vijender Singh Switches from Congress to BJP After Contesting 2019 Polls

However, this endorsement has sparked controversy, with Chief Minister Pema Khandu accusing the Congress party of resorting to religious polarization in Arunachal Pradesh’s political landscape.

Expressing concern over the politicization of religion, Khandu cautioned against divisive tactics during the electoral process.

The ACF’s support for Congress MP candidates has added a new dimension to the political scenario in Arunachal Pradesh, hinting at a potentially intense electoral battle in the upcoming polls.

Renowned Boxer Vijender Singh Switches from Congress to BJP After Contesting 2019 Polls


1. Renowned boxer and Olympic medallist Vijender Singh switches allegiance from Congress to BJP.
2. Singh had contested the 2019 polls from the South Delhi constituency under the Congress banner.
3. His decision to join BJP comes as a significant shift in his political affiliation.


New Delhi, April 03: Renowned boxer and Olympic medallist Vijender Singh made headlines as he switched allegiance from Congress to BJP ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Previously associated with Congress, Singh contested the 2019 polls from the South Delhi constituency.

In a ceremony held in New Delhi, Singh formally joined the saffron party in the presence of BJP’s National General Secretary Vinod Tawde. Speaking to the media post-joining, Singh expressed his commitment to serve the nation and its people, citing his move to BJP as a “kind of homecoming.”


Also Read: Himanta Biswa Sarma Lists 10 Scams to Deter Support for Congress in Assam Elections

When questioned about athletes’ recent protests against the BJP, Singh affirmed his stance to differentiate between right and wrong while advocating for athletes’ welfare and empowerment.

He praised the Modi government for the enhanced global recognition and respect received by Indian sportsmen since coming to power.

Singh’s decision to switch sides came shortly after he shared a tweet from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Reports had previously suggested Singh’s potential nomination as Congress’s candidate from Mathura, a constituency currently represented by BJP’s Hema Malini.

Coming from the influential Jat community, Singh’s political move holds significance, especially in regions like Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, where the Jat community holds considerable political sway.

Himanta Biswa Sarma Lists 10 Scams to Deter Support for Congress in Assam Elections


1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma uses social media to dissuade voters from supporting Congress.
2. Sarma’s post on platform X highlights ten alleged scams linked to the Congress party.
3. The aim is to sway public opinion against Congress ahead of the upcoming elections.


Guwahati, April 03: In a bid to sway public opinion ahead of the upcoming elections, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has taken to social media to enumerate what he perceives as compelling reasons for voters to reject the Congress party.

Through a succinct post captioned “Good Morning!” on platform X, Sarma outlined ten alleged scams associated with the Congress, aiming to dissuade voters from supporting the opposition party.

Scams Highlighted by Sarma:

  1. Coal Scam (“Coalgate”): This scandal revolves around irregularities in the allocation of coal blocks to private companies, resulting in significant financial losses to the Indian exchequer.
  2. Agusta Scam (AgustaWestland Deal): Allegations of corruption in the procurement of helicopters for the Indian Air Force, involving kickbacks and bribes to Indian officials and politicians.
  3. Commonwealth Games Scam: Corruption and financial irregularities surrounding the organization and execution of the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India.
  4. Telecom Scam (2G Spectrum Scam): Manipulation in the allocation of 2G spectrum licenses in India, leading to substantial losses to the government due to undervaluation and favoritism.
  5. Antrix-Devas Scam: Cancelation of a satellite deal between Antrix Corporation and Devas Multimedia, with allegations of favoritism and irregularities.
  6. Hawk Aircraft Scam: Allegations of irregularities in the purchase of Hawk advanced jet trainer aircraft for the Indian Air Force, involving corruption and kickbacks.
  7. INX Scam (INX Media Scam): Irregularities and money laundering allegations against former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram, about financial improprieties in foreign investment approvals granted to INX Media.
  8. Aircel-Maxis Scam: Allegations of irregularities in the approval of foreign investment in Aircel by the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) during P. Chidambaram’s tenure as Finance Minister.
  9. Embraer Scam: Corruption allegations in a deal between Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer and the Indian government for the purchase of military aircraft, including accusations of kickbacks and bribery.
  10. Land for Job Scam: Allegations of irregularities in land allocation in exchange for jobs across various states of India, involving corruption and misuse of authority by government officials and politicians.

Also Read: Former Arunachal CM Nabam Tuki alleges BJP bought Congress candidates to secure election victory

Political Implications:

Sarma’s initiative comes amid heightened political tensions in Assam as the state braces for crucial elections

. By spotlighting these alleged scams, Sarma aims to discredit the Congress party and bolster support for his party, the BJP, ahead of the polls.

However, the effectiveness of this strategy remains to be seen as both parties vie for voter allegiance in the upcoming electoral battle.

Former Arunachal CM Nabam Tuki alleges BJP bought Congress candidates to secure election victory


1. APCC Chief Nabam Tuki accuses BJP of enticing Congress candidates with money for election victory.
2. Several party candidates reportedly withdrew nominations after being offered substantial sums by the BJP.
3. Tuki alleges that BJP’s strategy aims to sway election outcomes through financial inducements.


Itanagar, April 03: Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) chief Nabam Tuki has accused the ruling BJP in the state of enticing Congress candidates with money to secure victory in the assembly elections.

According to Tuki, many party candidates withdrew their nomination papers after being offered substantial sums by the ruling party. Initially, the opposition party had fielded 34 candidates for the 60 assembly seats, but it is now left with only 19 nominees.

Tuki, contesting as a Lok Sabha candidate from the Arunachal West parliamentary constituency, along with the party’s vice president Bosiram Siram, who is contesting from the Eastern seat, alleges that the BJP’s strategy involves purchasing Congress candidates.


Also Read: Assam Chief Minister Calls for Tit-for-Tat Amid China’s Actions in Arunachal Pradesh

“This is not a surprise… the ruling party has made all efforts to win the elections. It is an open secret that the BJP candidates are using money to purchase our candidates,” Tuki stated.

Speaking after releasing the party’s manifesto, Tuki, a six-time MLA from Sagalee constituency in Papum Pare district, expressed confidence in winning in all the 19 seats where their candidates are contesting.

Regarding alliances with other parties in the state, Tuki disclosed that the Congress would ally with any party that believes in secularism, although he refrained from naming specific parties.

Responding to questions about the BJP winning 10 seats uncontested, Tuki cited past instances where the Congress had won seats unopposed and highlighted the party’s ability to secure victories regardless of such circumstances.

Tuki asserted that if the opposition INDIA bloc triumphs in the national elections, there would be an immediate change in the state government. He noted that many present BJP MLAs and ministers were originally from the Congress, emphasizing the fluid nature of politics in Arunachal.

Addressing concerns about his political future in the event of electoral defeat, Tuki expressed confidence in his constituency’s support, citing his track record of contributions to the state.

Former Lok Sabha MP and party campaign chairman Takam Sajoy echoed Tuki’s sentiments, emphasizing democratic values and the resilience of the INDIA bloc against the BJP’s governance.

He dismissed concerns about Tuki’s political career, affirming that setbacks are inherent to democratic processes.

Miscreants Attack Mawlai Police Station with Petrol Bomb in Meghalaya


1. Two unidentified individuals attacked Mawlai Police Station, hurling a petrol bomb at a police vehicle.
2. The incident took place around 2:00 AM, as confirmed by police sources.
3. Authorities are investigating the attack to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.


Shillong, April 03: During the early hours of Wednesday, two unidentified individuals launched an attack on the Mawlai Police Station in Meghalaya, hurling a petrol bomb that ignited a police vehicle.

The incident occurred around 2:00 AM, according to police sources.


Also Read: Assam Chief Minister Calls for Tit-for-Tat Amid China’s Actions in Arunachal Pradesh

The perpetrators arrived on a two-wheeler and targeted a parked Gypsy outside the police station. Fortunately, no casualties were reported from the attack.

Authorities have registered a case regarding the incident and have initiated a thorough investigation to apprehend the perpetrators responsible.

Assam Chief Minister Calls for Tit-for-Tat Amid China’s Actions in Arunachal Pradesh


1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma suggests a tit-for-tat response to China’s renaming of Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Sarma proposes naming 60 places in Tibet under China’s control in retaliation.
3. The call for reciprocal action comes amid ongoing tensions between India and China.


Guwahati, April 03: Amid the ongoing tension sparked by China’s renaming of places in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma proposed a tit-for-tat response by India, suggesting the release of Indian names for 60 places in Tibet under China’s control.

Speaking at a press meet in Guwahati, Sarma urged the Indian government to reciprocate China’s actions, stating, “It should be tit for tat. If they have named 30 places, we should name 60.”

He emphasized that while it’s a policy matter for the Indian government, such a move would be appropriate in response to China‘s actions.

India had previously rejected China’s renaming of certain places in Arunachal Pradesh, asserting that the state “is, has been, and will always be” an integral part of India.

The Ministry of External Affairs strongly objected to China’s efforts to rename places in Arunachal Pradesh, reaffirming that such actions do not change the reality of the state’s status as an integral and inalienable part of India.


Also Read: Congress Urges Sikkim Voters to Reject ‘Modi Ki Guarantee’ and Promises State Development

The Chinese Ministry of Civil Affairs released a list of standardised geographical names in Zangnan, the Chinese name for Arunachal Pradesh, claiming it as part of south Tibet.

However, India has consistently maintained that Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of the country, rejecting any attempts to alter its status through name changes or baseless claims.

In response to China’s actions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized that changing names does not alter ownership, comparing it to changing the name of someone’s house. He reiterated India’s stance that Arunachal Pradesh has always been and will remain an Indian state.

This development occurs amidst strained relations between India and China due to ongoing confrontations in eastern Ladakh since May 2020.

While both countries have disengaged from certain areas, India underscores the importance of peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) for normalizing overall relations.

Congress Urges Sikkim Voters to Reject ‘Modi Ki Guarantee’ and Promises State Development


1. AICC’s Mathew Antony oversees the party’s preparations for the 2024 elections in Sikkim.
2. Antony urges Sikkim voters to reject the Modi government’s promises, including the “Modi Ki Guarantee.”
3. Addressing the media in Gangtok, Antony emphasizes the need for voters to scrutinize political assurances.


Gangtok, April 03: The All India Congress Committee (AICC) national spokesperson, Mathew Antony, is in Sikkim to oversee the party’s preparations for the upcoming Assembly and Lok Sabha elections 2024.

Addressing the media in Gangtok, Antony urged Sikkim’s people to reject the alleged misleading guarantees and promises of the Modi government, including “Modi Ki Guarantee.”

He criticized the government’s failure to address the nationwide unemployment crisis and highlighted the rise in anti-social activities due to lack of employment opportunities.

Antony also pointed out the skyrocketing prices of cooking fuel, petrol, and diesel, along with the additional burden of GST on essential items, placing a strain on the common masses.


Also Read: Eastern Nagaland Congress Supports Chenmoho Resolution, Declares Election Boycott

He criticized the Prime Minister’s absence in Manipur amid prolonged civil unrest and accused the BJP of compromising institutions like the ECI, CBI, ED, and judiciary to suppress opposition voices, citing recent arrests of Chief Ministers Hemant Soren and Arvind Kejriwal.

Antony expressed confidence in the INDIA alliance forming the next government at the Centre, asserting that the BJP would fail in the 2024 elections due to its failure to meet people’s expectations.

Regarding Sikkim, he highlighted the state’s special Constitutional provisions protected under Article 371F.

He warned that the BJP government at the Centre had jeopardized these protections, emphasizing that only the INDIA alliance could safeguard Sikkim’s special rights and identity under Article 371F.

Antony urged the people of Sikkim to think wisely before casting their votes in the upcoming elections.

Eastern Nagaland Congress Supports Chenmoho Resolution, Declares Election Boycott


1. Eastern Nagaland Congress backs Chenmoho Resolution led by ENPO.
2. Calls for non-participation in Central and state elections until the FNT issue is resolved.
3. Urges the Ministry of Home Affairs under NDA regime to address the long-standing issue.


Kohima April 03: The Eastern Nagaland Congress has announced its support for the Chenmoho Resolution, led by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO).

This resolution calls for the region’s non-participation in both Central and state elections until the long-standing issue of the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) is adequately addressed by the Ministry of Home Affairs under the NDA regime.

In a press release, the Eastern Nagaland Congress expressed deep dissatisfaction with the BJP government, condemning what they perceive as repeated false assurances and delaying tactics employed by NDA leaders.

They allege that these tactics are designed to attract voters without fulfilling promises.


Also Read: 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Taiwan: Strongest Tremor in 25 Years Claims One Life, Japan on Tsunami Alert

In a significant move reflecting the sentiments of the ENPO and tribal leaders, the Eastern Nagaland Congress has decided to refrain from participating in both Central and state elections. They are firmly aligned with the ENPO’s cause.

The importance of this decision is underscored by an upcoming joint coordination meeting organized by the ENPO.

This meeting is scheduled to take place on April 6th at 10 a.m. at KU Hall, Mon Town.

7.7-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Taiwan: Strongest Tremor in 25 Years Claims One Life, Japan on Tsunami Alert


1. A 7.7-magnitude quake hits Taiwan’s eastern region, triggering tsunami warnings for the island and southern Japan.
2. Strongest quake in 25 years, causing widespread devastation and claiming at least one life.
3. Over 50 people were reported injured as buildings collapsed and infrastructure damage occurred.


Taiwan, April 03: A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocked Taiwan’s eastern region on Wednesday, April 3, triggering tsunami warnings not only for the island but also for parts of southern Japan.

The quake, one of the strongest in 25 years, struck shortly before 8 am local time, causing widespread devastation and claiming at least one life, with more than 50 people injured.

The quake’s epicenter was located 18 kilometers south of Taiwan’s Hualien City at a depth of 34.8 km, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), while Japan’s Meteorological Agency measured its magnitude at 7.7.

The director of Taipei’s Seismology Center described it as the most powerful earthquake since the deadly 1999 quake, which killed 2,400 people.

The impact of the earthquake was felt far beyond Taiwan’s borders, with reports of buildings collapsing and damage to infrastructure in various parts of the island.


Also Read: Gauhati High Court Orders Assam Government to Respond Regarding Kamakhya Access Corridor

In Hualien, a five-story building suffered extensive damage, with its first floor collapsing and the rest tilting at a precarious angle. In Taipei, the capital city, older buildings lost tiles, while newer office complexes experienced structural damage.

The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings in both Taiwan and Japan, with waves as high as three meters expected in some coastal areas. Japanese broadcaster NHK urged residents to evacuate immediately, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Scenes of ships leaving ports in the Okinawa region underscored the efforts to protect vessels from potential damage.

Despite the widespread disruption caused by the earthquake, normalcy began to return relatively quickly. Train and subway services were temporarily suspended, but children still went to school, and commuters resumed their morning routines in Taipei.

However, aftershocks continued to rattle the region, serving as a stark reminder of the seismic vulnerability faced by Taiwan and neighboring areas.

Taiwan’s history is marked by seismic activity, with the 1999 earthquake serving as a grim reminder of the potential devastation that earthquakes can cause.

Similarly, Japan experiences frequent tremors, with approximately 1,500 earthquakes recorded annually.

The resilience of these regions in the face of such natural disasters highlights the importance of preparedness and effective response measures to mitigate the impact on lives and infrastructure.

As rescue efforts continue and the affected communities begin to rebuild, the earthquake serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable forces of nature and the ongoing need for vigilance in earthquake-prone regions.

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