National

Rahul Claims Irregularities in Maharashtra Voter Lists; Election Commission Promises Response

Published

2 years ago

February 7, 2025

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, along with senior figures from the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) — Sanjay Raut and Supriya Sule — raised concerns on Friday regarding discrepancies in the voter lists for the upcoming 2024 Assembly elections in Maharashtra. They directed a series of questions to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding these irregularities. The ECI, reacting swiftly, announced it would provide a written response.

The MVA coalition in Maharashtra consists of the Congress, Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT), and the NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SCP).

During a press conference held at the Constitution Club, Gandhi, alongside Shiv Sena-UBT MP Raut and NCP-SCP MP Sule, stated, “As representatives of the entire Opposition in Maharashtra, we have come to share significant findings regarding the upcoming elections in our state. Our team has diligently analyzed the voters’ list and voting trends and has identified a number of serious irregularities. It is vital for everyone, especially young people who uphold democratic values, to understand these issues.”

Gandhi emphasized that their findings prompt numerous inquiries directed at the ECI. He noted that over the five years between the 2019 Assembly elections and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, 32 lakh new voters were registered. In stark contrast, 39 lakh new voters were added within just five months leading up to the 2024 Assembly elections.

“Why were these additional voters registered post-Lok Sabha elections? Who are these 39 lakh new individuals? Remarkably, this figure matches the total voter population of Himachal Pradesh added at an astonishing pace,” he remarked.

He further claimed that there are more registered voters in Maharashtra than the actual number of eligible voters in the state. “Maharashtra’s adult population, according to government statistics, is 9.54 crore, yet the ECI has reported exceeding numbers on the electoral rolls. This inconsistency raises critical questions about the origins of these additional voters. We’ve been seeking access to the voters’ lists from both the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, and we wonder why the ECI has been unresponsive to our requests. It is now the ECI’s duty to clarify these issues,” Gandhi urged.

Raut echoed these concerns by stating, “The ECI ought to address Rahul Gandhi’s questions, but it appears reluctant due to its subservience to the government. The issues we’ve brought forth are essential for the integrity of our country.”

Sule added, “For a democracy to thrive, elections must be conducted fairly. Our demand is for transparency and fairness in the electoral process.”

In response to the allegations, the ECI acknowledged the importance of political parties in a post on X, affirming, “The ECI prioritizes engagement with political parties, as they are key stakeholders, alongside voters. We deeply appreciate their views, suggestions, and inquiries. The Commission will provide a comprehensive written response, detailing the factual and procedural framework consistently applied nationwide.”

National

West Bengal Man Detained in Bengaluru over Alleged Terror Links

Published

6 hours ago

August 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

Bengaluru: Bengaluru police have detained a 25-year-old man from West Bengal over his alleged links with a terror group.

The accused has been identified as Asafool Mallik. He is a native of Naopara village in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district.

Police detained Mallik in the Jigani area after receiving information about his alleged suspicious online activities.

According to the police, Mallik had allegedly established contact with a person identified as Imran Haider through Facebook. Haider, who is from Afghanistan, is suspected to have links with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Police said Mallik allegedly wanted to travel to Afghanistan and join the group. He also allegedly discussed retaliatory attacks against the Pakistan Army and possible attacks in India.

Mallik had reportedly applied for a visa to travel to Afghanistan. However, he later dropped the plan due to financial difficulties and family responsibilities, police said.

Mallik was living near APC Circle in Jigani. He had been working as a security guard at Tata Advanced Limited in the Jigani Industrial Area since December 2025.

Police said they received information about his activities while conducting patrols in the Bommasandra Industrial Area.

During questioning, Mallik allegedly said he was angry over what he believed were attacks on Muslims in Pakistan. He also reportedly expressed anger over Pakistan’s position on the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Police further said Mallik was allegedly being encouraged to retaliate if Muslims faced difficulties in India.

Police later examined Mallik’s mobile phone. They allegedly found chats, voice calls and audio conversations between Mallik and Haider.

The police are now examining the chats, recordings and other material recovered from the phone.

The investigation is underway to determine the extent of Mallik’s alleged links with the terror network.

National

Google Marks India’s Independence Day With Vibrant Doodle

Published

14 hours ago

August 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mangaluru: India is celebrating its Independence Day on August 15, 2026. Google has joined the celebrations with a special Doodle on its homepage.

The colourful Doodle reflects India’s rich culture and heritage. It features patterns inspired by traditional Indian textiles.

The artwork replaces the usual Google logo with bright colours and traditional motifs. It gives the familiar logo a distinct Indian look.

The Doodle also highlights India’s cultural diversity. Its detailed designs are inspired by India’s traditional art and textile heritage.

India became independent from British rule on August 15, 1947. The day is celebrated across the country with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes, parades and other patriotic events.

Kite flying and cultural activities are also part of the Independence Day celebrations in many parts of the country.

India gained independence on August 15, 1947, after nearly two centuries of British rule.

The freedom struggle involved the sacrifices of millions of Indians. Several prominent leaders and freedom fighters played important roles in the movement.

Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Bhagat Singh are among the prominent figures associated with India’s freedom struggle.

As the nation celebrates Independence Day, Google’s special Doodle adds a colourful digital tribute to India’s history, culture and national spirit.

National

India Celebrates Independence Day with Focus on Viksit Bharat

Published

15 hours ago

August 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: India celebrates Independence Day on August 15, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi.

The ceremony highlighted 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram. The event also focused on the power of the youth, or Yuva Shakti.

Prime Minister Modi stressed the vision of building a developed India, or Viksit Bharat, by 2047. He called on the youth to play a key role In achieving this goal.

For the first time in the history of the Red Fort celebrations, Vande Mataram was officially rendered during the ceremony.

Prime Minister Modi appeared in a traditional tie-and-dye red turban. He paired it with a white kurta and a chocolate-brown jacket.

The celebrations followed the traditional state protocol. The national flag was hoisted at the Red Fort. A 21-gun salute was also given.

A ceremonial Guard of Honour was presented to the Prime Minister. He later addressed the nation from the Red Fort.

The 2026 Independence Day celebrations combined India’s historic legacy with a strong message for the future. The focus remained on youth power and the goal of making India a developed nation by 2047.