After Lok Sabha entry, local body poll results strengthen BJP foothold in Kerala

IANS | December 13, 2025 11:24 PM

New Delhi, Dec 13 (IANS) The outcome of Kerala local body elections will now shape political strategies ahead of the 2026 Assembly polls where the ruling Left coalition will face a resurgent Congress-led Opposition with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) evolving as a potential third force following the high‑visibility breakthrough in Thiruvananthapuram.

Multiple political conflicts threaten stability in Bangladesh: Report

IANS | December 13, 2025 8:41 PM

Dhaka, Dec 13 (IANS) As the parliamentary election approaches in Bangladesh, conflicts unfolding on multiple fronts between parties, within rival factions and across broader political divides risk undermining the country’s stability and pose a significant challenge for the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government tasked with overseeing a peaceful and credible election, a report said on Saturday.

Naveen Patnaik forgoes hiked LoP salary, asks Odisha govt to use funds for poor

IANS | December 13, 2025 7:35 PM

New Delhi, Dec 13 (IANS) Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Assembly and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik on Saturday announced that he would forgo the recently increased salary and allowances attached to the LoP’s post, asking that the amount instead be used for the welfare of the poor.

We are on the cusp of eliminating Maoism: HM Amit Shah

IANS | December 13, 2025 7:31 PM

Bastar, Dec 13 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Saturday the forces and the government are on the cusp of fulfilling the resolve to eliminate Left Wing Extremism from the entire country before March 31, 2026.

Hajj pilgrims should choose only authorised operators: Kiren Rijiju

IANS | December 13, 2025 5:57 PM

New Delhi, Dec 13 (IANS) Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Saturday urged Indian Muslims planning to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage in 2026 to complete their bookings well in advance and ensure that they choose only authorised Hajj Group Organisers (HGOs) or Private Tour Operators (PTOs).