Madhusmita Choudhury

Deep Depression to Hit Odisha Coast: IMD Warns of Extremely Heavy Rainfall Across South Odisha

Madhusmita Choudhury / September 22, 2026

Deep Depression to Hit Odisha Coast: IMD Warns of Extremely Heavy Rainfall Across South Odisha Bhubaneswar: Odisha is bracing for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall as a depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a deep depression and move towards the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for intense rainfall, thunderstorms and squally weather in several parts of the state. Deep Depression Likely to Cross Odisha Coast According to the IMD, the depression over the west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a deep depression within the next 24 hours. The system is expected to move west-northwestwards and cross the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur during the night of September 23 and early hours of September 24. The weather system was located around 310 km southeast of Puri and Gopalpur in Odisha in the latest IMD bulletin. Extremely Heavy Rainfall Warning The IMD has forecast extremely heavy rainfall over Odisha on September 23 and 24, with very heavy rainfall also likely on September 25. Heavy rainfall is expected to continue in parts of the state on September 26. Southern and coastal districts are expected to experience the strongest impact of the system. Areas including Ganjam, Gajapati, Koraput, Kalahandi, Rayagada, Kandhamal and neighbouring districts may receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall during the peak period. Risk of Waterlogging and Localised Flooding The intense rainfall may lead to waterlogging, temporary flooding, landslides in vulnerable areas and disruption to road communication, particularly in hilly and low-lying regions. The Odisha government has already reviewed preparedness measures. Officials have been directed to keep cyclone and flood shelters ready and remain prepared for evacuation, rescue and relief operations if required. Fishermen Advised to Remain Cautious With the system moving towards the coast, sea conditions are expected to become rough to very rough in affected areas. Squally winds are also likely along the coastal belt. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea during the period of adverse weather, while residents in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas are advised to closely follow official weather and administration updates. No Cyclone Forecast at Present The present system is being described by the IMD as a deep depression, and the current forecast does not indicate that it will become a cyclone before crossing the coast. However, weather conditions can change, so people are advised to rely on updates from the IMD and local authorities. Odisha on High Alert With the system expected to affect the state from September 23–24, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. People, especially those living in vulnerable and low-lying areas, are advised to remain alert and take necessary precautions as rainfall activity intensifies. The IMD has urged people to follow official weather warnings and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of extremely heavy rainfall.

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National, Trending

Seven Family Members Cremated Together at Puri’s Swargadwar After Tragic Madhya Pradesh Road Accident

Madhusmita Choudhury / September 21, 2026

Seven Family Members Cremated Together at Puri’s Swargadwar After Tragic Madhya Pradesh Road Accident Bhubaneswar/Puri: In a heartbreaking end to a pilgrimage that turned into tragedy, the last rites of seven members of a Bhubaneswar family were performed together at Swargadwar in Puri on Sunday. Seven funeral pyres were lit simultaneously as the family bid farewell to their loved ones who lost their lives in a devastating accident in Madhya Pradesh. The victims were part of a family from Bhubaneswar who had travelled to Madhya Pradesh for a pilgrimage. Their vehicle was swept away by strong floodwaters near Nalkheda in Agar Malwa district after heavy rainfall caused a nearby drain to overflow. Eight people, including the taxi driver, died in the accident. Tragedy Strikes During Pilgrimage According to reports, the family had visited the Baglamukhi Temple at Nalkheda and were returning towards Ujjain when their rented vehicle encountered the flooded stretch. Heavy rainfall had caused water levels to rise sharply. The vehicle was swept away by the strong current and the occupants became trapped inside. Rescue teams later recovered the vehicle and the bodies. Police have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Among the seven family members who died were three children and two women. The eighth victim was the vehicle’s driver. Mortal Remains Brought Back to Odisha Following post-mortem procedures in Madhya Pradesh, the bodies of the seven family members were transported to Odisha in special ambulances. Odisha authorities coordinated with the Madhya Pradesh administration to facilitate the return of the mortal remains and the arrangements for the final rites. The bodies reached Bhubaneswar late Saturday night before being taken to the family’s native place and subsequently to Puri for the final rites. Seven Funeral Pyres Lit Together at Swargadwar The final farewell at Puri’s Swargadwar was marked by an exceptionally painful scene, with seven funeral pyres lit together. The seven victims included Banamali Behera’s son, two daughters, son-in-law and three grandchildren. Relatives, friends and members of the public gathered to pay their final respects. The tragedy has left the family and the wider Bhubaneswar community mourning the sudden loss of seven members in a single incident. Government Announces Financial Assistance Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the deaths and announced ₹2 lakh ex-gratia assistance for the next of kin of each deceased person. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also expressed grief and announced ₹5 lakh assistance for the bereaved families while directing officials to coordinate with Madhya Pradesh authorities. The accident has once again highlighted the dangers posed by sudden flooding and strong water currents during periods of heavy rainfall. A Devastating End to a Pilgrimage What began as a spiritual journey to seek blessings ended in an unimaginable tragedy for the Behera family. The seven members who left Odisha together never returned home alive. Their final journey ended at Puri’s Swargadwar, where seven funeral pyres burned side by side, marking a deeply painful farewell for a family devastated by the tragedy.

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National, Politics, Trending

Mamata Banerjee Faces EC Setback: Revisiting Indira Gandhi’s 1969 Political Crisis

Madhusmita Choudhury / September 19, 2026

Mamata Banerjee Faces EC Setback: Revisiting Indira Gandhi’s 1969 Political Crisis New Delhi/Kolkata: The Election Commission’s recent decision involving the Trinamool Congress has brought the party’s internal dispute and electoral identity into sharp focus. On September 17, the Election Commission temporarily froze the All India Trinamool Congress name and its traditional “Flowers and Grass” symbol for the upcoming by-elections, directing the rival factions to choose separate names and symbols. The development has also prompted comparisons with an earlier episode in Indian political history involving former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, whose conflict with senior Congress leaders eventually resulted in the historic Congress split of 1969. What Happened to the TMC Name and Symbol? The Election Commission said there were two rival groups within the Trinamool Congress, one led by Mamata Banerjee and another led by the rival faction. The Commission directed both groups to submit choices for temporary names and symbols for the upcoming by-elections. On September 18, the poll panel subsequently allotted separate identities to the two factions. The Mamata Banerjee-led faction was allotted the name “Mamata All India Trinamool Congress” along with the Football Player symbol, while the rival faction was allotted “Democratic Trinamool Congress” and the Envelope symbol. The arrangements are applicable to the upcoming by-elections, while the broader dispute over the party’s original name and symbol remains a matter of political and legal significance. The 1969 Congress Crisis Nearly six decades earlier, Indira Gandhi faced a major confrontation within the Congress. After becoming Prime Minister in 1966, she increasingly came into conflict with the party’s established leadership, often referred to as the Congress Syndicate. The confrontation became particularly visible during the 1969 Presidential election. The Congress organisation backed Neelam Sanjiva Reddy, while Indira Gandhi supported Vice President V. V. Giri, who contested as an independent candidate. Giri eventually defeated Reddy. The result intensified the differences between Indira Gandhi and the Congress leadership. According to historical accounts, Indira Gandhi was expelled from the party in November 1969, after which Congress formally split into two factions: Congress (Organisation) and Indira Gandhi’s Congress (Requisitionists). From Party Split to the 1971 Election The 1969 split did not end Indira Gandhi’s political career. Instead, the dispute led to a major political contest in the 1971 Lok Sabha election. Indira Gandhi campaigned under the slogan “Garibi Hatao” and sought a direct mandate for her political and economic programme. The Election Commission’s historical data records that Congress (R) won 352 of the 518 Lok Sabha seats in the 1971 election. The NCERT-based SATHEE resource records that Indira Gandhi’s Congress (R) secured about 44% of the vote and 352 seats, while Congress (O) won only 16 seats. The result significantly strengthened Indira Gandhi’s position in national politics and changed the balance of power within the Congress movement. Two Different Political Episodes The present TMC dispute and the 1969 Congress crisis are separated by decades and occurred under very different political circumstances. The Election Commission’s current action concerns the use of a party name and electoral symbol amid an internal dispute, whereas the 1969 Congress crisis involved a much broader organisational and ideological conflict within India’s then-dominant national party. Still, both episodes illustrate how disputes within major political parties can lead to questions over organisational control, party identity and electoral symbols. What Happens Next? The TMC dispute is now being closely watched ahead of the upcoming by-elections. The Election Commission has provided separate identities to the rival factions for the polls, while the political and legal contest surrounding the party’s original identity continues. The comparison with the 1969 Congress split therefore provides historical context, but the eventual political consequences of the present TMC dispute will depend on subsequent organisational, electoral and legal developments. Disclaimer: This article presents documented political developments and historical context. References to political claims or comparisons are attributed to the relevant sources and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party or leader.

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National, Trending

Moody’s Raises India’s FY2026-27 GDP Growth Forecast to 7% Amid Middle East Crisis and Rising Oil Prices

Madhusmita Choudhury / September 18, 2026

Moody’s Raises India’s FY2026-27 GDP Growth Forecast to 7% Amid Middle East Crisis and Rising Oil Prices New Delhi: Despite continuing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and elevated global energy prices, India’s economic growth outlook has received a boost. Global rating agency Moody’s Ratings has raised its forecast for India’s real GDP growth in fiscal year 2026-27 to 7%, up from its earlier estimate of 6%. The upward revision comes as India continues to show resilience amid a challenging global economic environment. Moody’s assessment points to strong domestic economic activity, including investment and manufacturing, as important factors supporting growth. India Records 7.8% Growth in April-June Quarter India’s economy recorded 7.8% year-on-year growth in the April-June quarter, according to the latest reporting. Strong investment and manufacturing activity contributed to the performance, helping offset weakness in sectors such as mining and consumer services. The latest quarterly performance has strengthened expectations that domestic economic momentum can continue despite external pressures. Middle East Conflict Creates Economic Risks The revised growth forecast comes against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has created uncertainty in global energy markets. Oil prices have remained elevated, with Brent crude recently trading above $100 per barrel amid concerns over supply disruptions. For India, a major oil-importing economy, prolonged high crude prices could increase import costs and put pressure on inflation. High Oil Prices Remain a Key Concern While Moody’s has raised its growth forecast, the agency has also highlighted potential downside risks. If global energy prices remain high for an extended period, higher fuel and transportation costs could increase inflationary pressures and affect household consumption. The government could also face additional pressure for subsidies or fiscal support if energy costs remain elevated for a prolonged period. El Niño Could Add to Food Inflation Risks Another risk highlighted by Moody’s is the possibility of weather-related disruptions. A significant El Niño event could affect agricultural production and potentially push food prices higher, adding another challenge for the Indian economy. Higher food and energy prices together could affect consumer spending and, in turn, economic growth. India’s Growth Story Continues Amid Global Uncertainty The latest Moody’s revision reflects the strength of India’s domestic economic activity, even as global markets face geopolitical and energy-related challenges. The agency expects India to remain among the fastest-growing major economies, while emphasizing that external risks could influence the pace of future growth. For now, the combination of strong domestic demand, investment and manufacturing activity has helped India maintain economic momentum despite a volatile global environment. Disclaimer: GDP forecasts are estimates and can change as economic conditions, energy prices, geopolitical developments and domestic factors evolve.

Moody’s Raises India’s FY2026-27 GDP Growth Forecast to 7% Amid Middle East Crisis and Rising Oil Prices Read Post »

National, Odisha, Trending

Koraput Coffee Takes Centre Stage at BRICS Summit, Bringing Odisha’s Flavour to the Global Platform

Madhusmita Choudhury / September 12, 2026

Koraput Coffee Takes Centre Stage at BRICS Summit, Bringing Odisha’s Flavour to the Global Platform New Delhi: Odisha’s famous Koraput Coffee has received a major global spotlight after being featured at the 18th BRICS Summit held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The inclusion of the state’s specialty coffee in the summit’s welcome and media kits has highlighted Odisha’s rich agricultural identity on an international platform. The 100% Arabica specialty coffee produced in the Koraput region was reportedly included in kits prepared for delegates and journalists attending the prestigious summit. The initiative showcased the unique flavours and agricultural products of different parts of India before national and international guests. Koraput Coffee Gets Global Exposure Known for its distinctive quality and flavour, Koraput Coffee has emerged as one of Odisha’s important agricultural products. Its presence at a major international gathering like the BRICS Summit has provided an opportunity to introduce the coffee to a wider audience. Along with Koraput Coffee, other regional products were also showcased as part of India’s effort to highlight its diverse local traditions and products. Bihar’s sattu and makhana and traditional products from Gujarat were among the items featured. Connecting Local Products with a Global Audience The initiative reflects the broader vision of taking India’s local products to national and international markets. By placing products from different states before global delegates and media representatives, such platforms can help create greater awareness about India’s regional agricultural and cultural diversity. For Koraput, the recognition is particularly significant as the district’s coffee-growing communities have been working to establish the region as a distinctive coffee-producing area. A Proud Moment for Odisha The international exposure of Koraput Coffee has been welcomed as a proud moment for Odisha. The initiative has not only highlighted the state’s coffee production but also drawn attention to the potential of tribal and rural regions to contribute to India’s growing specialty-product economy. With the participation of a large number of national and international journalists, delegates and guests at the BRICS Summit, the presence of Koraput Coffee has helped carry a taste of Odisha beyond the state’s borders. From Koraput to the World The appearance of Koraput Coffee at the BRICS Summit sends a strong message: local products can become global ambassadors of a region’s identity. From the coffee plantations of Koraput to an international diplomatic gathering in New Delhi, Odisha’s unique flavour has found a place on the global stage. The development is expected to further strengthen awareness of Koraput Coffee and encourage greater recognition of Odisha’s agricultural and locally produced products.

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Entertainment, National, Politics, Trending

Major Claim Emerges in Disha Salian Case as Lawyer Alleges Sachin Vaze Has Information Linking Her Death to Sushant Singh Rajput Case

Madhusmita Choudhury / September 8, 2026

Major Claim Emerges in Disha Salian Case as Lawyer Alleges Sachin Vaze Has Information Linking Her Death to Sushant Singh Rajput Case Mumbai: The Disha Salian death case has once again come into the spotlight following fresh claims made by advocate Nilesh Ojha, who represents Salian’s father. The allegations have emerged at a time when the case has seen renewed legal attention, with the Bombay High Court recently directing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the investigation. According to reports, Ojha has claimed that a team associated with former Mumbai Police officer Sachin Vaze approached his office and that Vaze was allegedly willing to provide information and testify in connection with the case. These claims have generated fresh discussion around the circumstances surrounding Salian’s death and its alleged connection with the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput. Claims About a Possible Link Disha Salian, who had worked as a celebrity manager, died in June 2020, just days before Sushant Singh Rajput was found dead. The timing of the two deaths has led to years of public speculation about whether the cases were connected. However, it is important to distinguish allegations and claims from established facts. Earlier police investigations did not establish a connection between the two deaths. The Bombay High Court’s latest intervention means the circumstances surrounding Salian’s death will now be examined through a fresh CBI investigation. Lawyer Makes Further Allegations Ojha has made several serious allegations regarding what he says Vaze knows about the case. Reports quoting the lawyer say that Vaze allegedly claimed to have knowledge of multiple killings and was prepared to disclose information as a witness. These are claims attributed to the lawyer and have not been established by a court or an investigating agency. No conclusion regarding criminal responsibility can therefore be drawn from these allegations alone. Why the Case Has Returned to the Spotlight The Disha Salian case has remained a subject of intense public and media attention since 2020. In September 2026, the Bombay High Court directed the CBI to register an FIR and investigate the circumstances surrounding Salian’s death. The court also directed Mumbai Police to hand over relevant case records to the central agency. The court’s order represents a significant development because the investigation will now be handled at the central level. The court has also stressed that individuals should not be treated as accused without sufficient evidence. Connection With Sushant Singh Rajput’s Death Sushant Singh Rajput died on June 14, 2020, several days after Salian’s death. Because of their professional association and the close timing of the deaths, speculation about a possible connection has continued for years. The latest allegations have once again brought that question into public discussion. However, whether there was any actual criminal connection between the two deaths remains a matter for investigators to establish through evidence. CBI Investigation Could Provide Answers With the CBI now directed to investigate the Disha Salian case, attention is expected to focus on the available records, witness statements, forensic evidence and other material collected during earlier investigations. The latest claims involving Sachin Vaze could become relevant if investigators formally examine them and find supporting evidence. Until then, the allegations should be treated as unverified claims rather than established facts. Bottom Line The latest statements by Disha Salian’s family’s lawyer have added another layer to a case that has remained under public scrutiny for years. The alleged willingness of Sachin Vaze to provide information and the claimed connection with the Sushant Singh Rajput case have sparked renewed debate. With the CBI investigation now underway, the focus will be on evidence and official findings. The investigation will ultimately determine whether the allegations have any factual or legal basis. Disclaimer: This article reports allegations and claims made by individuals involved in or commenting on the case. The allegations have not been independently established as facts, and guilt or criminal liability can only be determined through due legal process.

Major Claim Emerges in Disha Salian Case as Lawyer Alleges Sachin Vaze Has Information Linking Her Death to Sushant Singh Rajput Case Read Post »

Education, Odisha, Trending

426 Students Participate in Odia Language Competitions at Pipili, Focus on Taking Odia Identity Global

Madhusmita Choudhury / September 7, 2026

426 Students Participate in Odia Language Competitions at Pipili, Focus on Taking Odia Identity Global Pipili: A vibrant celebration of the Odia language and culture was organised at Pipili Mission School, bringing together students from various schools across the Pipili area for a series of competitions focused on promoting the richness of the Odia language. The programme was organised by Sambad and Ama Odisha, featuring competitions in Odia essay writing, handwriting and drawing. A total of 426 students participated in the event, showcasing their creativity, writing skills and enthusiasm for the Odia language. The event also highlighted the importance of encouraging young students to remain connected with their mother tongue and cultural identity. Through such competitions, students get an opportunity to develop their literary and artistic abilities while gaining a deeper appreciation for Odia language and heritage. Dr. Smita Mahanti, Additional Secretary of the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. She felicitated and presented awards to 10 students who achieved outstanding results in the competitions. Speaking at the event, Dr. Smita Mahanti emphasised the need to take Odia language and culture beyond local boundaries. She said that efforts are being made to promote the Odia language digitally and take Odia Asmita (Odia identity) to a global platform. The Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture is focusing on expanding the reach of Odia through digital platforms so that the language, literature, traditions and cultural identity of Odisha can connect with people across the world. The programme at Pipili served as an important platform for students to showcase their talent while also highlighting the significance of preserving and promoting the Odia language among the younger generation. With increasing emphasis on digital communication, initiatives that combine education, culture and technology could play an important role in taking Odia language and Odisha’s cultural identity to a wider national and international audience. The participation of 426 students reflects the growing interest among young learners in Odia language, literature and creative activities, while the initiative sends a strong message about preserving the state’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

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National, Trending, Wellness

SBI BSBD Account Rules to Change From October 1: ₹15 + GST Charge After 4 Cash Withdrawals

Madhusmita Choudhury / August 22, 2026

SBI BSBD Account Rules to Change From October 1: ₹15 + GST Charge After 4 Cash Withdrawals New Delhi: State Bank of India (SBI) customers holding a Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) account should take note of the reported changes in cash withdrawal charges that are set to take effect from October 1. The revised rules are particularly important for customers who frequently withdraw cash from their accounts. Four Cash Withdrawals to Remain Free Under the reported revised structure, BSBD account holders will be allowed up to four cash withdrawals in a month without additional charges. Once the free withdrawal limit is exhausted, customers making further cash withdrawals may have to pay a charge of ₹15 plus applicable GST for each additional transaction. This means customers who regularly depend on cash withdrawals should keep track of the number of withdrawals they make during each month to avoid unexpected charges. Digital Transactions Will Not Attract This Charge One of the key points is that the reported charge is applicable to additional cash withdrawals, while digital transactions are not covered by this particular charge. Customers can therefore continue using digital payment and banking facilities for their regular transactions without this additional cash-withdrawal fee. What Is an SBI BSBD Account? A Basic Savings Bank Deposit account is designed to provide basic banking facilities without the requirement of maintaining a minimum balance. It is aimed at making essential banking services accessible to a wider section of customers. BSBD account holders can access several basic banking facilities, subject to SBI’s applicable terms and conditions. Several Basic Services Remain Free BSBD account customers continue to receive certain basic services without charges. These may include the basic RuPay ATM-cum-Debit Card and its annual maintenance, along with certain electronic credit transactions such as NEFT and RTGS, as per the applicable SBI service terms. Government cheque deposits and collection-related services may also remain free under the applicable rules. Important Rule for Customers With Another SBI Savings Account There is also an important condition for customers who already have another savings account with SBI. If a customer opens a BSBD account while holding another SBI savings account, the existing savings account is required to be closed within the prescribed period, reportedly within 30 days of opening the BSBD account. Customers should therefore check the latest terms and conditions before opening or maintaining such an account. What Should SBI Customers Do? BSBD account holders who frequently withdraw cash should keep the monthly withdrawal limit in mind. Planning cash requirements in advance and using digital payment options where convenient could help customers avoid additional charges. However, customers should verify the latest charges and applicable conditions through SBI’s official channels before making financial decisions, as banking charges and service rules can be revised. Bottom Line The reported changes from October 1 could affect SBI BSBD account holders who make more than four cash withdrawals in a month. With a reported ₹15 + GST charge on each additional cash withdrawal, customers should monitor their transactions carefully and make use of digital banking facilities where suitable. Disclaimer: Banking charges and effective dates can change. Customers should confirm the applicable BSBD account charges directly with SBI before relying on the information above.

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National, Politics, Trending

PM Modi Tops Ministers’ Social Media Report Card Ahead of Possible Cabinet Reshuffle

Madhusmita Choudhury / August 20, 2026

PM Modi Tops Ministers’ Social Media Report Card Ahead of Possible Cabinet Reshuffle New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly emerged as the top performer in the social media assessment of Union ministers, ahead of a possible Cabinet reshuffle. The digital performance review has reportedly placed strong emphasis on ministers’ activity, public engagement and overall presence across major social media platforms. According to reports, the performance assessment covered the period from May 1 to August 15. Ministers were reportedly evaluated on parameters such as the frequency of their posts, engagement, likes, followers and interaction with the public across platforms including Facebook, Instagram and X. PM Modi Leads the Digital Performance Chart Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reported to have secured the top position across the major social media platforms. His strong digital presence and regular communication with citizens have continued to make social media an important part of the government’s public outreach strategy. The assessment reportedly highlights how digital platforms have become increasingly important for ministers to communicate government initiatives, policies and public programmes directly to citizens. Ministers Receive Individual Performance Reports Reports suggest that Union ministers were given individual social media performance reports during a recent Cabinet meeting. The reports are understood to provide ministers with an overview of their digital activity and public engagement during the assessment period. The move has reportedly encouraged ministers to become more active online and focus not only on posting regularly but also on creating meaningful interaction with the public. Social Media Could Gain Importance Ahead of Cabinet Reshuffle The development comes amid speculation about a possible Cabinet reshuffle. While there has been no official confirmation that social media performance alone will determine any ministerial changes, the reported assessment indicates that digital communication is receiving greater attention within the government. Ministers are reportedly being encouraged to strengthen their online presence, explain government initiatives more effectively and engage with citizens through social media platforms. Digital Outreach Becomes a Key Political Tool Social media has transformed the way governments and political leaders communicate with the public. Platforms such as X, Facebook and Instagram allow ministers to provide updates instantly, highlight development projects and respond to public issues. For the government, a strong digital presence can also help ensure that information about policies and welfare programmes reaches a wider audience quickly. What Lies Ahead? With a possible Cabinet reshuffle generating attention, the reported social media report cards have added another dimension to the discussion surrounding ministerial performance. However, the final decisions regarding any reshuffle will depend on several political and administrative considerations. For now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reported No. 1 position underlines the growing importance of digital communication in Indian politics and governance. Disclaimer: The reported rankings and their possible connection to a Cabinet reshuffle should be treated as media reports unless officially confirmed by the government.

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National, Politics, Trending

Fresh Controversy Hits Vijay Government Over Remarks About Karunanidhi in Assembly

Madhusmita Choudhury / August 19, 2026

Fresh Controversy Hits Vijay Government Over Remarks About Karunanidhi in Assembly Tamil Nadu Assembly Witnesses Heated Exchange as Chief Minister Vijay Steps In The Tamil Nadu government has once again found itself at the center of a political controversy. This time, the dispute erupted inside the State Assembly, where a remark made by a cabinet minister about former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi triggered strong reactions from opposition members. The controversy began during a discussion on departmental budget allocations in the Tamil Nadu Assembly. During the debate, Forest Minister R. V. Ranjith Kumar referred to former Chief Minister and senior DMK leader M. Karunanidhi simply by his name instead of using an honorific title. Traditionally, Tamil Nadu legislators often refer to Karunanidhi as “Kalaignar” or address him as the former Chief Minister as a mark of respect. The minister’s decision not to use these titles immediately drew criticism from DMK legislators, who strongly objected to the statement. The situation quickly escalated, leading to a tense atmosphere inside the Assembly. Opposition members argued that a leader of Karunanidhi’s stature should be addressed with the respect traditionally given to former chief ministers. As the controversy intensified, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay intervened to calm the situation. He expressed regret over the incident and apologized to the opposition members on behalf of the minister. The Chief Minister acknowledged that the manner in which the former Chief Minister was addressed was inappropriate and assured the Assembly that such incidents should be avoided in the future. Following Vijay’s intervention, tensions inside the Assembly gradually eased. However, the incident has once again highlighted the emotional and political significance of Karunanidhi’s legacy in Tamil Nadu. Political analysts believe the controversy reflects the continuing influence of historical leaders in the state’s political landscape. Even years after his passing, Karunanidhi remains a highly respected figure whose legacy continues to shape political discussions across Tamil Nadu. The latest controversy also presents another challenge for the Vijay government, which has already faced several political debates since assuming office. Whether the issue will have any long-term political impact remains to be seen, but it has certainly reignited discussions about political etiquette and respect within legislative institutions.

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