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‘Ladki hoon, lad sakti hoon!’: BJP intensifies criticism over Congress spokesperson’s post on Kangana Ranaut


1. BJP escalates criticism of Congress over Instagram post targeting Kangana Ranaut.
2. Congress spokesperson’s post draws BJP’s ire amid Kangana Ranaut’s political entry.
3. Supriya Shrinate’s Instagram comment on Kangana Ranaut triggers BJP’s backlash against Congress.


New Delhi, March 26: The BJP intensified its criticism of the Congress following a controversial post made by Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate on Instagram targeting actor Kangana Ranaut, who is contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, on the BJP ticket.

The post, featuring a picture of Ranaut, asked about the current market rate in Mandi, which was later clarified by Shrinate as being made by someone else with access to her accounts. The post was deemed inappropriate and has since been deleted.


Also Read: BJP Heavyweights Sonowal, and Pradan Baruah to File Nominations for Assam LS Polls Today

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla highlighted the irony of the situation, referencing Congress’s slogan “Ladki Hoon, Lad Sakti Hoon” (I am a girl, I can fight), given by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra during the 2022 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls. Poonawalla accused Shrinate of insulting “Nari Shakti” (women power) and demanded action from the Election Commission.

Manoj Tiwari, BJP MP from Northeast Delhi, emphasized the difference between real and reel life, expressing surprise at the Congress’s perspective on women and artists. Tiwari reiterated BJP’s respect for artists and women in India.

Shaina NC, another BJP spokesperson, advocated for breaking stereotypes, asserting that women from various professions, including the film and fashion industries, should be able to participate in active public life.

She defended Kangana Ranaut’s decision to join the BJP, attributing it to her desire to contribute positively to the country.

The BJP’s response underscores its commitment to defending Ranaut and combating stereotypes against women in public life.

BJP Heavyweights Sonowal, Pradan Baruah to File Nominations for Assam LS Polls Today


1. Sarbananda Sonowal and Pradan Baruah of BJP to file Lok Sabha nominations in Assam.
2. Sonowal to contest from Dibrugarh, Baruah from Lakhimpur constituency.
3. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expected to accompany Sonowal during nomination filing.


Guwahati, March 26: Assam BJP heavyweight candidates Sarbananda Sonowal and Pradan Baruah are set to file their nominations for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls today.

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will officially submit his candidacy for the Dibrugarh Lok Sabha constituency, likely accompanied by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Meanwhile, MP Pradan Baruah will file his nomination for the Lakhimpur seat.

Competing against Sonowal for the Dibrugarh seat is Lurinjyoti Gogoi from the Asom Jatiya Parishad (AJP), who will also submit his nomination on the same day. Additionally, Manoj Dhanowar of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will file his nomination for the Dibrugarh Lok Sabha seat.


Also Read: Adani Ports to Acquire 95% Stake in Odisha’s Gopalpur Port for $162 Million: Key Details of the Deal

Sarbananda Sonowal, a prominent BJP leader, previously served as the Chief Minister of Assam from 2016 to 2021 and held key positions in the Assam BJP and the All Assam Students Union (AASU) earlier in his career.

Sonowal’s political journey includes his tenure as a three-time MLA, representing Moran and Majuli constituencies. He joined the BJP in 2011 after being active in the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) party.

In these elections, Sonowal is contesting for the Dibrugarh seat, replacing the incumbent MP Rameswar Teli. Lurinjyoti Gogoi and AAP candidate Manoj Dhanowar are also vying for parliamentary seats, marking their debut in Lok Sabha elections.

The upcoming Lok Sabha elections will be held in seven phases, covering all 543 seats, with vote counting scheduled for June 4. In Assam, the elections will take place in three phases, with five Lok Sabha seats going to polls in the first phase.

Adani Ports to Acquire 95% Stake in Odisha’s Gopalpur Port for $162 Million: Key Details of the Deal


1. Adani Ports secures a 95% stake in Odisha’s Gopalpur Port for $161.74 million.
2. Acquisition includes a 56% stake from Shapoorji Pallonji Group and a 39% stake from Orissa Stevedores
3. The deal’s enterprise value stands at ₹30.80 billion.


Bhubaneswar, March 26: Adani Ports has announced its acquisition of a 95% stake in Odisha’s Gopalpur Port for $161.74 million, with an enterprise value of ₹30.80 billion.

The deal involves purchasing a 56% stake from Shapoorji Pallonji Group (SP Group) and a 39% stake from Orissa Stevedores.

Karan Adani, Managing Director at Adani Ports, expressed that the acquisition would expand the Adani Group’s port network and enhance cargo volume parity between the east and west coasts.

He emphasized the strategic importance of Gopalpur Port in strengthening APSEZ’s integrated logistics approach.

Gopalpur Port primarily handles dry bulk cargo like iron ore, coal, limestone, ilmenite, and alumina. With this acquisition, Adani Ports, operating approximately 12 ports and terminals across India’s coastlines, aims to bolster its presence in the sector.


Also Read: AAP Plans Protest Outside PM’s Residence Today, Traffic Restrictions Implemented

Shapoorji Pallonji Group confirmed the sale, marking its second port divestment in recent months. Previously, the conglomerate sold Dharamtar Port to JSW Infrastructure Limited.

Gopalpur Port was acquired by the group in 2017, and it has since developed the port’s infrastructure and operational capabilities, now capable of handling 20 million tonnes of freight annually.

A spokesperson for Shapoorji Pallonji Group highlighted the divestments as strategic decisions demonstrating the group’s ability to create value for stakeholders.

The sale underscores the group’s proficiency in asset turnaround and value creation through its core strengths in project development and construction.

AAP Plans Protest Outside PM’s Residence Today, Traffic Restrictions Implemented


1. AAP plans a protest at the PM’s residence over Kejriwal’s arrest by the Enforcement Directorate.
2. Leaders and workers will assemble at Patel Chowk before marching towards the PM’s residence.
3. Protest route to pass through Tughlaq Road en route to Lok Kalyan Marg.


New Delhi, March 26: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is set to stage a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence on Tuesday in response to the recent arrest of party convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Enforcement Directorate.

Here are the latest developments:

Protest Details:

  • AAP leaders and workers will gather at Patel Chowk in Delhi at 10 am before marching towards the Prime Minister’s residence on Lok Kalyan Marg via Tughlaq Road.
  • However, the Delhi Police have denied permission for the protest.

Reason for Protest:

  • The protest is in response to Kejriwal’s arrest by the Enforcement Directorate on March 21 in connection with a money laundering case related to the now-scrapped excise policy.

Traffic Advisory:

  • The Delhi Traffic Police have issued advisories and restrictions on several key routes, including Tughlaq Road, Safdarjung Road, and Kemal Ataturk Marg.
  • Drivers are advised to avoid these routes, and alternative diversions will be in place through various points.

Metro Restrictions:

  • The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced closures at Lok Kalyan Marg Metro Station, Patel Chowk Metro Station Gate 3, and Central Secretariat Metro Station gate 5 until further notice.


Also Read: West Tripura Lok Sabha Constituency: Candidates, Population, Voter Turnout, and Past Election Outcomes

Holi Celebration Postponed:

  • Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj stated that the party will not celebrate Holi until Kejriwal is released from jail, considering him and other AAP leaders as family members.

Social Media Campaign:

  • AAP launched a social media campaign with the slogan “Modi ka sabse bada darr-Kejriwal” (Modi’s biggest fear is Kejriwal), urging party members to change their social media profile pictures in solidarity.

Upcoming Rally:

  • This protest precedes a planned mega rally by the Opposition INDIA bloc at Ramlila Maidan on March 31 to protest Kejriwal’s arrest and safeguard democracy.

Party’s Stand:

  • AAP leader Gopal Rai emphasized the need to protect democracy and the country’s interests, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

West Tripura Lok Sabha Constituency: Candidates, Population, Voter Turnout, and Past Election Outcomes


1. West Tripura Lok Sabha Constituency holds significant importance in the forthcoming elections, encompassing 30 assembly segments.
2. Former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb is the Bharatiya Janata Party’s candidate, while state president Ashish Kumar Saha represents the Congress.
3. The constituency’s outcome will be closely watched, with BJP’s Deb and Congress’s Saha competing for victory.


Agartala, March 26: West Tripura Lok Sabha Constituency is a crucial battleground in the upcoming elections, comprising 30 assembly constituency segments.

This time, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has nominated former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb, while the Congress has put forward state president Ashish Kumar Saha.

District Coverage:

The constituency encompasses 14 Assembly Constituencies in West Tripura, 9 in Sepahijala, 4 in Gomati, and 3 in South Tripura District.

Total Voters:

A significant total of 14,61,836 electorates are enrolled for the West Tripura Lok Sabha constituency. Among them, 7,33,645 are male voters, 7,28,315 are females, and 58 are transgenders. Additionally, 5,920 service voters, including 5,808 males, 112 females, and 7,818 individuals with disabilities, have also been enrolled.

Previous Election Candidates and Results:

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, BJP candidate Pratima Bhoumik secured victory in this constituency with 573,532 votes. Congress candidate Subal Bhowmik secured 267,843 votes, while CPI-M candidate Shankar Prasad Dutta received 171,826 votes.

In the 2014 elections, CPM’s Shankar Prasad Dutta emerged victorious from the Tripura West seat, defeating Congress candidate Arunoday Saha by 503,486 votes.


Also Read: Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Likens Congress Members to BJP’s ‘Fixed Deposits’

Current Candidates:

This year, the BJP has nominated Former Chief Minister and Rajya Sabha MP Biplab Kumar Deb, while the Congress has put forward its State President Ashish Kumar Saha.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Likens Congress Members to BJP’s ‘Fixed Deposits’


1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma sparks controversy by likening Congress members to BJP’s “fixed deposits”.
2. Sarma suggests that most Congress members in Assam are under the BJP’s influence, and ready to be utilized.
3. His remarks shed light on the shifting political landscape in the state.


Guwahati, March 26: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has stirred controversy by likening members of the Congress party in the state to “fixed deposits” of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), suggesting their allegiance lies with his party.

In a recent media address, Sarma remarked that most Congress members in Assam are effectively under BJP’s influence, ready to be utilized whenever needed.

He emphasized that, apart from a select few, the majority of Congress members have aligned themselves with the BJP.

Sarma noted a significant trend of Congress members defecting to the BJP or its ally, the AGP, over the past few months, including grassroots workers.


Also Read: Nagaland: National People’s Party to Back Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party in Lok Sabha Elections

He expressed confidence that the Congress party’s presence in Assam would diminish significantly by 2026.

The Chief Minister’s remarks followed earlier speculation about the possible defection of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhupen Borah to the BJP. Sarma hinted at Borah’s imminent move, citing insider information.

However, Sarma’s comments drew criticism from Congress leaders, with Sarma dismissing their credibility and claiming to be privy to internal discussions within the party.

He also referred to the royal background of Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi, further fueling speculation about defections within the party.

Nagaland: National People’s Party to Back Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party in Lok Sabha Elections


1. Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma and NPP leaders met Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio.
2. Purpose: Pledge support to NDPP for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.
3. Marks a significant move in pre-election strategizing and coalition building.


Kohima, March 25: In a significant move ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and leaders from the National People’s Party (NPP) met with Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and other party members in Nagaland.

The primary agenda of the meeting was to pledge support to the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

As part of the NDA coalition, the NPP has decided to throw its full weight behind Dr. Chumben Murry, the NDPP-backed candidate for the Nagaland Lok Sabha seat.

Conrad K Sangma expressed his appreciation for the BJP’s decision to back NPP candidates for the two Lok Sabha seats in Meghalaya.


Also Read: 78 Villages in Nagaland Achieve Tuberculosis-Free Status

He also noted that NDA allies are aligning in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Manipur in preparation for the parliamentary elections.

Just recently, the BJP declared its support for NPP candidates contesting in the Shillong and Tura Lok Sabha constituencies.

Sangma further mentioned that Ampareen Lyngdoh, the NPP candidate for the Shillong seat, has garnered support from the Opposition TMC in various constituencies, indicating a broader coalition of political forces rallying behind the NPP’s candidates.

Expressing gratitude for the support received, Sangma emphasized the ongoing efforts to connect with voters and campaign vigorously for their candidates.

Despite the backing from multiple parties, Sangma acknowledged that there’s still much groundwork to cover and remained optimistic about the outcome of the elections.

Overall, the alliance between the NPP and NDPP, supported by other political entities, underscores the collaborative spirit among parties within the NDA coalition, aiming to secure victory in the Lok Sabha polls.

78 Villages in Nagaland Achieve Tuberculosis-Free Status


1. Nagaland government announces 78 villages tuberculosis-free.
2. Milestones reached in Phek, Longleng, Wokha, Mokokchung, and Kohima districts.
3. Efforts signify progress in combating tuberculosis across Nagaland.


Kohima, March 25: In a significant stride towards public health, the Nagaland government revealed on Sunday that 78 villages across the state have been declared tuberculosis-free.

These villages comprise 34 in Phek district, 19 in Longleng, nine in Wokha, four in Mokokchung, and three in Kohima, marking a substantial achievement in combating the disease.

The announcement coincided with World Tuberculosis Day, observed annually on March 24th, commemorating Dr. Robert Koch’s groundbreaking discovery in 1882 of the TB-causing bacterium.


Also Read: Top Battles to Watch in Lok Sabha Elections 2024: NDA vs INDIA

This pivotal moment in medical history laid the foundation for the effective diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis.

The designation of these villages as TB-free zones follows rigorous surveys conducted by the National TB Elimination Programme team, signifying a concerted effort to eradicate the disease at the grassroots level.

Despite this progress, Nagaland continues to grapple with tuberculosis, recording 4,284 active cases in 2023.

Efforts to combat the disease remain ongoing, underscoring the importance of sustained public health initiatives and community engagement in tuberculosis control and prevention.

Top Battles to Watch in Lok Sabha Elections 2024: NDA vs INDIA


1. Lok Sabha 2024 elections see NDA and INDIA readying for fierce showdowns nationwide.
2. PM Narendra Modi’s ‘Abki Baar 400 Paar’ contrasts with the opposition’s bid to halt his third term.
3. Political landscape poised for high-stakes battles as parties gear up for intense contests.


New Delhi, March 25: The battlegrounds are drawn for the Lok Sabha 2024 elections, with contenders from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) gearing up for intense battles across the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set ambitious goals with his slogan ‘Abki Baar 400 Paar’ for the NDA, while the opposition alliance seeks to prevent Modi from securing a third term in office.

As candidates are announced, anticipation rises for what promises to be a fiercely contested election season. Here are some key contests to keep an eye on:

  1. Narendra Modi vs Ajay Rai (Varanasi): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will once again contest from Varanasi, where he faces Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai. Rai, who contested against Modi in 2014 and 2019, aims to challenge the incumbent once more. In the previous elections, Modi secured convincing victories over his rivals, including Rai.
  2. Rajeev Chandrasekhar vs Shashi Tharoor (Thiruvananthapuram): Union Minister and BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar will take on three-time MP and senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Tharoor, known for his eloquence and intellect, has represented the constituency since 2009.
  3. Abhijit Gangopadhyay vs Debangshu Bhattacharya (Tamluk): Tamluk constituency in West Bengal is set to witness a heated battle, with former Calcutta High Court judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay representing BJP against Trinamool Congress’s Debangshu Bhattacharya. Gangopadhyay’s transition from judiciary to politics has sparked controversy, while Bhattacharya gained fame for creating the ‘Khela Hobe’ song, emblematic of TMC’s campaign.
  4. K Surendran vs Rahul Gandhi (Wayanad): Kerala BJP chief K Surendran will face off against former Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad, Kerala. This contest promises to be high-profile, with Surendran aiming to challenge Gandhi’s dominance in the region. In the previous election, Gandhi won the seat by a significant margin.
  5. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury vs Yusuf Pathan (Baharampur): Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury will contest from the Baharampur constituency in West Bengal, facing former cricketer Yusuf Pathan representing Trinamool Congress. Chowdhury’s stronghold faces a challenge from Pathan, who brings his sporting fame to the political arena.

Also Read: CPI(M)-Congress Alliance Secures Victory in Tripura Bar Association Elections

These key contests exemplify the diversity and intensity of the electoral battles unfolding across India, as parties vie for supremacy and voters’ trust in the Lok Sabha elections of 2024.

CPI(M)-Congress Alliance Secures Victory in Tripura Bar Association Elections


1. The CPI(M)-Congress-supported ‘Save Constitution Forum’ triumphed over the BJP-Tipra Motha panel ‘Aainjebi Unnayan Mancha’ in the recent Tripura Bar Association elections.
2. Mrinal Kanti Biswas from Congress and Koushik Indu from CPIM secured the positions of president and secretary, respectively, reflecting the victory of the Save Constitution Forum.
3. This election outcome underscores the significance of the Tripura Bar Association as the largest lawyers association in the state, with a notable shift in leadership dynamics.


Agartala, March 25: In the recent elections of the Tripura Bar Association, the CPI(M)-Congress-backed ‘Save Constitution Forum’ emerged victorious over the BJP-Tipra Motha panel ‘Aainjebi Unnayan Mancha’.

The Tripura Bar Association, the largest lawyers association in the state, witnessed Mrinal Kanti Biswas (Congress) and Koushik Indu (CPIM) elected as president and secretary, respectively, under the Save Constitution Forum banner.


Also Read: Kangana Ranaut, BJP Candidate, Extols ‘Jai Shri Ram’ on Holi, Extends Gratitude to JP Nadda and PM Modi

The elections, held on Sunday across four centers, saw a notable increase in voter turnout compared to the previous year, with approximately 500 eligible voters participating.

Following the counting process, Returning Officer and Advocate Sandip Dutta Chowdhury announced the results, stating, “Advocates Mrinal Kanti Biswas, Subrata Debnath, and Koushik Indu secured positions as president, vice-president, and secretary of the Tripura Bar Association, respectively. Advocates Amar Debbarma and Utpal Das were elected as assistant secretaries. A total of 463 out of 500 voters cast their votes.”

The victory of the CPI(M)-Congress-backed panel signifies a shift in dynamics within the legal fraternity of Tripura, reflecting the preferences and priorities of its members.

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