'Free and fair polls part of basic structure': SC directs Andhra SEC to decide on nomination extension, ensure security for candidates

IANS | October 21, 2026 12:55 PM

New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Andhra Pradesh State Election Commission (SEC) to examine allegations that candidates of the Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSRCP were prevented from filing nominations for Urban Local Body elections and decide by Thursday whether the deadline should be extended in affected municipalities.

Women celebrate 'Sindoor Khela' in Delhi, Bengal, Tripura on Vijaya Dashami

IANS | October 21, 2026 12:49 PM

New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS) Women across Delhi, West Bengal and Tripura celebrated the traditional Sindoor Khela ritual on Wednesday on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami, marking the culmination of Durga Puja. Women applied vermilion to each other’s foreheads and cheeks and offered prayers to Goddess Durga, seeking Her blessings and protection for everyone.

‘I’m not a travel agent’: Tharoor on Rahul Gandhi’s foreign trip

IANS | October 21, 2026 11:20 AM

Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 21 (IANS) Congress MP Shashi Tharoor responded curtly on Wednesday when asked about Rahul Gandhi’s latest foreign trip, adding a touch of intrigue to the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition's travel plans and the reluctance of his party colleagues to speak on the subject.