All eyes are on Odisha chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s planned celebration of the first anniversary on June 12.  It may be a big affair dashed with cultural extravaganza, exclusive dinners with CM for business leaders, MPs, MLA and media. Specially branded vans will visit all the 314 blocks of Odisha to amplify BJP government’s achievements, reforms, various schemes and various public service initiatives. The centre piece of the celebration will be the PM Modi attending the same. The day will also see the unveiling of the Odisha Vision document which has been prepared after taking suggestions/inputs from over 320,000 Odites across the state. As per CM Majhi the aspiration is to make Odisha $ 500 bn economy by 2036 and $1.5 tn by 2047. While the CM seems gung ho, his critics say Majhi is skating on thin ice as in terms of performance he has not achieved much. He has lots of ground to cover. But in all fairness one year is a small period to judge the capability, ability of any CM.  

Tushar Kumar has been appointed as the Deputy Mayor of Elstree & Borehamwood. He has created history by becoming the first and youngest person of Indian origin to hold this position. Based in Elstree & Borehamwood, Tushar, a political graduate, has been actively involved in initiatives that promote youth development, cultural awareness, and social unity. Tushar’s path has been greatly influenced by the values and guidance of his mother, Parveen Rani, a respected councillor and former Deputy Mayor known for her unwavering dedication to public service and cultural education. This significant milestone not only marks Tushar’s achievement but also highlights the growing impact of British Indians in shaping the future of local leadership across the UK. In 2023, two people of Indian origin made waves in the UK –mother-son duo, Councillor Parveen Rani and her 20-year-old son Tushar Kumar. They won the Council elections as Labour Party members breaking the traditional Conservative stronghold. Tushar became the youngest Indian-origin councillor in the UK. Tushar’s victory in the local elections marked a significant shift in the political landscape of the UK. It reflects the nation’s changing demographics and highlights the importance of younger voices in politics. Tushar who moved to London at the age of 10, was passionate about politics and community work from a young age. A former student of politics at the prestigious King’s College London, he teaches Hindi pro bono at the Hindi Shiksha Parishad UK.

Nearly a week after Bengaluru’s stampede (June 4) that killed 11 people, the Congress high command seems to have finally got into the act. It has summoned both Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar to Delhi to meet Rahul Gandhi on June 10. It is good that the Congress leadership has stepped in as the stampede itself was widely seen as a game of one-upmanship by state leaders. DKS was at the forefront trying to hijack the IPL victory to further his own politics. The worst part was the manner in which Siddaramaiah tried to politically shift the entire blame on Shivakumar aspiring to oust him in November and administratively pinned the blame on the city police. Bengaluru police had declined permission to hold the victory parade for the Royal Challengers team that had won the IPL cup at a short notice. But phone calls from senior ministers, particularly Shivakumar, forced police officials to give go ahead for the event. Shivakumar took complete ownership of the IPL victory in such a way that he packaged it as a campaign to make him CM. When Siddaramaiah’s close aides led by K Govindaraj heard of this they decided that the Governor, the CM and other ministers should preside over a reception for the RCB team outside the Vidhana Soudha. This led the police to prioritise the Soudha event, resulting in a lesser number of policemen available for the Stadium event where more than two lakh people had gathered. Many of them were supporters of DKS who had come from his home turf of Kanakapura. It is learnt that when the stampede happened Siddaramaiah was out with his grandchildren having dosas. To fix DKS, Siddaramaiah fired his political secretary, Govindaraj three days after the stampede.

PM Narendra Modi delivered a powerful message as he marched on the Chenab Rail bridge with an Indian flag. The Tricolour march reminded many of the 1992 Republic Day flag-hoisting at the Lal Chowk in Srinagar, during the peak of militancy. At the peak of militancy in 1990s, when separatist violence sought to tear Kashmir away from India, Modi, along with BJP party stalwart Murli Manohar Joshi, hoisted the Indian flag at the iconic Lal Chowk– a move that Modi and saffron party leaders still boast of as an audacious challenge to anti-India forces. On June 6, it was the first time since the Pahalgam terror attack, followed by the recent military conflict with Pakistan, that Modi landed in Jammu & Kashmir to inaugurate the Chenab Rail Bridge in the Reasi district. As the Valley’s railway was linked with that of the rest of India, a big message of integration was delivered. Power and meaning were added to that message as Modi walked on the Chenab Rail Bridge, waving an Indian national flag. What makes the inauguration and the PM’s Tricolour walk especially significant is that they come within a month of Operation Sindoor which was conducted after the dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir. The 1.31-km-long Chenab Rail Bridge is an engineering marvel. The key infrastructural project will enable direct rail travel from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. But this isn’t just any other connectivity project. It lies in the world’s most heavily militarised zone, sandwiched between three nuclear-armed countries—India, Pakistan and China. Over 215 km of approach roads were built through rugged, terrorism-hit terrain, opening up areas once reachable only by foot or boat.

When news of Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra (50) tying the knot with Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and former MP Pinaki Mishra(65) in Germany was first announced in a Kolkata newspaper, mind you nearly a month after their marriage (on May 3), it was clear that the couple had officially wanted the world to know about it. A day later Mahua shared a picture of Pinaki and her cutting a cake on her X handle. Interestingly, the post was shared on TMC handle by party leader Abhishek Banerjee even as he was abroad on Operation Sindoor delegation. Looks like the news leak was timed with the private party that the couple threw for their friends in Delhi this week. Interestingly, what is worrying BJD leaders from Odisha is the manner in which Pinaki, who was a 4-term Lok Sabha MP from Puri and had been BJD Parliamentary Party leader, was being sidelined by the Bengal media. How can Kolkata media be so dismissive of the high networth BJD veteran with a poser like “who is Pinaki Misra?” BJD sources even wondered why Pinaki was getting bad press. While it may be true that Naveen Patnaik had denied Pinaki the Lok Sabha ticket in 2024 polls from Puri as his victory margin had been steadily declining, BJD sources felt it would be unfair to be dismissive of the Supreme Court lawyer. Party sources pointed out that Pinaki belonged to an eminent family of jurists — at least two from his family — Dr Ranganath Misra and his cousin Justice Dipak Misra went on to be CJI. His first wife, Sangeeta is a legal professional and hails from Maharashtra; they have two children.

The board of directors of Maharashtra’s cash-rich state corporations, to include MHADA, MMRDA, MTDC and scores more (many holding more funds than respective ministries) are being revamped with fresh appointments of chairpersons (MLAs) and board members (uncommon party workers). A three-member committee comprising deputy CMs Eknath Shinde (Shiv Sena), Ajit Pawar (NCP) and Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule (BJP) will seek consensus on fresh appointees, accommodate respective party representatives probably in a 15:15:30 ratio respectively. CM Devendra Fadnavis will vet the finalized candidates to these state corporations, being the last word on the new look state bodies. The move is aimed at stimulating, assuaging, accommodating party workers of all three parties, unsung heroes who toiled hard to ensure the parties’ success at the last state assembly polls. More importantly, the move will rectify the anomaly that existed in these state corporations, religious trusts being manned by the same old appointees, some even dating back to the pre-BJP era that was ushered in 2014. For instance, even by 2017 most of these state bodies including the Saibaba Sansthan, Siddhivinayak temple trusts continued with appointees from the erstwhile Congress-NCP regime that was sharply ticked off by Union Home Minister Amit Shah back then. If a particular ministry is held by one party for eg: Minorities department currently under Ajit Pawar the relevant state corporation on minorities would likely be led by an MLA from either of the two other alliance parties. Hectic lobbying has begun in earnest and an all-out ‘Mara’Mari’ for posts is likely to follow.

In an interesting move, the Tamil Nadu government decided to lend a hand to residents of ‘Madrasi Camp’ in New Delhi, whose unauthorised houses on the bank of the Barapullah drain were demolished by the Delhi Development Authority. An official release said the State government, as directed by Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin, would help the residents return to their native districts, if they chose to do so. They would be given comprehensive support, including assistance for livelihood, through the Collectors, it said.. ‘Madrasi Camp’ is an informal habitation along the bank of the Barapullah Jangpura drain, near Nizamuddin Railway Station in South Delhi. It had 370 slum dwelling units. The settlement was predominantly inhabited by persons of Tamil Nadu origin. The Delhi High Court had noted that ‘Madrasi Camp’ was an “unauthorized construction/encroachment” that had led to the obstruction and blockage of the Barapullah drain, “causing significant waterlogging in the surrounding areas, especially during the monsoon”. It had directed that eligible residents be rehabilitated and relocated under the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board Act (DUSIB). The DUSIB determined that 215 out of the 370 residents were eligible for allotment of residential units under the economically weaker section category at Narela. On May 9  all petitions filed by the residents were disposed of by the Delhi High Court, which ordered the commencement of demolition at ‘Madrasi Camp’ from June 1.While nearly half of the residents were offered alternate accommodation — most residents didn’t quite warm up to the idea of moving back to TN.  At least one resident lamented over the lack of opportunities in TN. “They should give first jobs to those already in Chennai and then they should call us,” was the general refrain.

Some BJP ruled states will witness a change of guard in the coming days starting with Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel seeking relief from public service to tend to his ailing son (Short Post reported earlier). Other CMs on the block include Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Odisha although the last incumbent Mohan Charan Majhi was issued the ‘Perform or Perish’ diktat having only recently assumed power. Rajasthan’s deteriorating law and order scenario queered the pitch for Bhajan Lal Sharma, installed at expense of the Rani of Dhaulpur, Vasundhara Raje first placed on probation (as BJP LoP) by PM Narendra Modi, then shrugged off, with state assemblies being fought under Modi’s name. Rice bowl of India, Chhattisgarh’s tribal CM Vishnu Deo Sai is also in cross hair of BJP high command for inability to grow party ideology in erstwhile Congress ruled state and, being invisible unlike his Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand counterparts. To non-corrupt Sai’s credit, he recently introduced anti-conversion law, mobilized anti-naxalite operations. Rajasthan’s Brahmin CM Lal, however, made rounds of New Delhi (thrice in recent weeks), may be replaced by Rajput Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. UP governor (former Gujarat CM) Anandiben Patel held consultations with PM Modi to address her home state CM issue with Union Sports, Youth Affairs Minister Mansukh L Mandaviya’s name being considered. As senior BJP leader Mahendra Jain, however, puts it, “PM Modi listens to all but takes decisions on his own!” While steeped in corruption owing to alliance politics, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis remains the PM’s blue-eyed boy.

The Tata-IPL-18 is nearing its conclusion with the title match to be played between the United Spirits-owned Royal Challengers Bengaluru that paid $ 111.6 mn to acquire the Bengaluru franchise in 2007 and the winner of the Qualifier 2 between five times winner, the Ambani-owned Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings owned by Mohit Burman, Ness Wadia, Preity Zinta and Karan Paul. One among the three will be crowned on Wednesday (June 3) at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. But the story of this year’s IPL is the rise of a few fantastic batters, bowlers and all rounders which confirms a belief that India can field two Men in Blue teams in the Twenty20 format at least. The tournament began with known culprits set to dominate, but the cricketing fraternity is already talking about budding stars like the  Rajasthan Royal’s 14-year old left-hander Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Punjab Kings’ batters   Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Shashank Singh and Nehal Wadhera, and left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar, Chennai Super Kings’ batter Ayush Mhatre and fast bowler Anshul Kamboj,  Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Aniket Verma, Delhi Capitals’ allrounder  Vipraj Nigam and wicketkeeper-batter Abhishek Porel,  RCB leg spinner  Suyash Sharma and seamer Yash Dayal,  Gujarat Titans’ left arm spinner Sai Kishore, Mumbai Indians’ lower order batter Naman Dhir are the new faces who have excelled in their roles. The ongoing season has thrown fresh talents and the national selection committee will have plenty to look at the basket when the time comes to pick the squad for next year’s Twenty20 World Cup to be held in India and Sri Lanka.  The IPL has truly turned out to be a talent feeder for the national team.

In a throwback of sorts to his clash with TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee that had marked his didi-oh-didi campaign in the last West Bengal assembly election, incumbent CM made a personal jibe about PM Modi’s estranged wife setting off a vicious cycle of personal attacks. A controversy apparently erupted following PM Modi’s rally in Alipurduar on May 27, where he, without naming Mamata, had sharply criticised her government and the TMC. In response, Mamata at a presser called out Modi’s “politicisation of Operation Sindoor”. She transgressed the political line with a personal jibe: “Remember that every woman has respect. They take sindoor from their husbands… Modiji is talking this way. You are not every woman’s husband… why don’t you give sindoor to your Missus first?” Apparently Mamata attacked Modi on the basis of unfounded media reports that BJP was going to distribute sindoor to women.  Later, realising the inappropriateness of her comment, she immediately apologised while blaming Modi for provoking her. “I am sorry to say this. I shouldn’t get into all this. But you are compelling us now to open our mouths.” Instead of accepting Mamata’s apology, BJP’s State unit chief Sukanta Majumdar and LoP Suvendu Adhikari launched a coordinated retaliation that targeted not just Mamata’s alleged personal conduct but also her humble origins and socio-economic background. The situation reached a disturbing climax in Chinsurah, Hooghly, where BJP women workers forcibly applied sindoor on female police officers who were trying to disperse their protest. The incident drew criticism even from within the BJP’s own state unit. The episode highlights how personal attacks and identity politics have increasingly dominated Bengal’s political landscape, with both major parties crossing traditional boundaries of political propriety and raising serious questions about the health of democratic discourse in the state.

The investigation into the flooding that derails Mumbai every monsoon took a Bollywood twist with the entry of actor Dino Morea. Dino and his brother Santino spent two days of long hours of questioning at the Mumbai office of the Economic Offences Wing after being accused of indulging in financial irregularities in the desilting work of the critical Mithi river that runs through the heart of the city, flooding and derailing it every year. While the investigation against flooding in Mumbai against two companies, three brokers, five contractors and three civic officials, are essentially being perceived as attempts to target the Thackeray family that has been ruling the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation uninterruptedly from 2005 to 2022, Dino landed in it thanks to recorded telephonic conversations with middlemen Ketan Kadam. Incidentally, this is not the first case where Dino has landed in legal trouble due to his association with Aaditya Thackeray. He has also been linked earlier in the Disha Salian murder case, chiefly by Nitesh Rane. The Rane’s and Thackeray’s share a turbulent relationship since the exit of family patriarch Narayan Rane’s from the original Bal Thackeray’s Shiv Sena. Since then, they have been known to take potshots regularly at the Thackeray family right through Rane’s journey from Sena to Congress to BJP. Not surprisingly, Nitesh Rane, Maharashtra’s fisheries and port development minister, derisively termed Dino Morea as the daughter-in-law of the Thackeray residence Matoshree. Aaditya countered by pointing out to Dino’s Christmas celebration with prime minister Narendra Modi at his Delhi residence.

The Indian cinema landscape is undergoing a transformative phase, characterized by bold choices and innovative storytelling. Aamir Khan’s decision to release his ambitious film, Sitare Zameen Par on YouTube channels instead of traditional OTT platforms exemplifies this shift. This choice aims to reach a broader audience, tapping into the millions who turn to YouTube for entertainment. By opting for this route, Khan seeks to engage a diverse demographic, ensuring that the film’s poignant themes of childhood, creativity, and the nurturing of talent resonate across various backgrounds. Sitare Zameen Par is set to spark conversations and inspire change in societal perceptions regarding education and artistic expression. Conversely, Sajid Khan’s Housefull 5 takes a different approach within the same industry. Renowned for its comedic flair, the Housefull franchise embraces the absurd and entertaining. This latest instalment promises to innovate further by introducing multiple endings, a groundbreaking concept in Indian cinema. This narrative technique will witness different endings in different Cinema and in fact, different screens as well. Such an approach could redefine audience excitement in the suspense genre in Bollywood, encouraging future filmmakers to explore unconventional storytelling methods. Both films, despite their differing genres, highlight the willingness of Indian filmmakers to experiment and take risks. Aamir Khan focuses on socially relevant themes, while Sajid Khan delivers entertaining escapism, showcasing the diverse storytelling that Indian cinema is embracing. As filmmakers navigate the digital landscape, blending traditional and modern distribution methods will likely become more common. With both Sitare Zameen Par and Housefull 5 exemplifying the coexistence of meaningful narratives and entertaining spectacles, audiences are invited to engage with some experiments as well.

Recently, Karnataka’s deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar (DKS) and home minister Dr G Parameshwara met AICC General Secretaries, KC Venugopal and Randeep Singh Surjewala, separately and discussed the recent political developments. According to a highly placed source, during the meeting, DKS insisted that the power sharing agreement should be honoured and Siddaramaiah should demit office after completing his two-and-a-half-year tenure in October 2025. The recent ED raid on educational institutions linked to Parameshwara with regard to the Ranya Rao gold smuggling case also figured in the discussions. It may be recalled that DKS, after meeting Parameshwara soon after the raids, had said the home minister had gifted Ranya Rao Rs 40 lakh. But this statement had not gone down well with several Congress leaders including Dr Parameshwara. Venugopal and Surjewala also met the aspirants for MLC elections, as four seats have been vacant for over seven months. Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah showed up at the residence of his bete noire and senior Congress leader BK Hariprasad’s house for breakfast signalling a desire to bury their hatchet. The breakfast meeting, which came a day after Congress general secretaries met with Siddaramaiah and his deputy DKS, raised eyebrows in political circles. It is being said that Siddaramaiah wants Hariprasad to talk to the Congress’ top brass about inducting new ministers. The outreach with Gandhi family loyalist Hariprasad is also seen as Siddaramaiah’s way of trying to be on good terms with ‘original ‘ Congressmen and alienate strong leaders like DKS. Parameshwara’s proximity with the CM is already visible. Apparently, DKS — who is eyeing Siddaramaiah’s chair — is not in favour of a Cabinet reshuffle. The buzz is that DKS wants a new ministry when he becomes the CM.

 In 1991, Kerala was declared as the first fully literate state in India. In 2025, another award awaits it, India’s first digitally literate state. According to MB Rajesh, the Local Self Government Department (LSGD) minister, President Droupadi Murmu is expected to make the announcement during her next visit to Kerala. As part of a plan to digitally empower citizens, the LSGD launched — Digi Kerala in 2023. The plan was to identify people in the age group of 14 to 65 years who do not have basic digital knowledge. The survey which covered 1.5 crore people from over 83 lakh families in the state, identified 22 lakh people who were digitally illiterate.  According to Rajesh, around 99% of the individuals passed the evaluation after formal training. In 2022, Pullampara, in Thiruvananthapuram, was declared the first fully digital literate panchayat in India. LSGD designed the Digi Kerala initiative taking inspiration from the panchayat’s success. According to the Minister, digital literacy is essential for every citizen in today’s tech driven world and Kerala has been a model state when it comes to literacy. All public delivery services have been digitised and it’s essential for the common man to have digital knowledge to avail all services. The digitally illiterate citizens were identified with the help of mobile applications using services of volunteers from Kudumbashree, a women powered entity, NSS (National Service Scheme), NCC, Library council and state literacy mission. Digital literacy was imparted through modules designed by Kerala Institute of Local Administration.

Kamal Haasan, Ulaga Nayagan (world hero) for his drooling fans turned Ularal Nayagan (Blabbermouth) by his Kannada was born from Tamil comment. The timing of his comment made the film trade nervous. His movie Thug Life is all set to hit cinemas in the South on June 5.  Already Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are at loggerheads over sharing of Cauvery waters. This misplaced claim could jeopardise the film’s showing in Karnataka, a big market for Tamil films. Legendary director Mani Rathnam was presiding over the razzmatazz promos with his marquee cast on stage when a pap asked Rathnam, “You have teamed up with Kamal after 38 years. Would Thalapathy Rajini also get a film from you after 35 years?” Rathnam, as his wont, did not wade into this “intellectual” research. With great care he said “we have to consider his market, availability and most important a script equal to his magnetism, a long list of conditions”. Such diplomacy and discretion were scattered in the winds when Kamal turned Ularal Nayakan by his declaration that Kannada was the offspring of Tamil. Threats of Thug Life boycott and angry protests erupted just as quickly …but Kamal being Kamal refused to apologise. Kamal who has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha with the backing from MK Stalin was perhaps keen to prove his loyalty to Tamil and Stalin, stuck to his stand. Kamal was scorched by critics who alleged that his party MNM was pledged like Panchali in the gamble of the Mahabharat. Thug Life needed just one more embellishment, the cherry on the I scream…K Krishnaswamy, founder of Puthiya Tamizhagam said “The title Thug Life is not acceptable…as Thuggery has a very bad connotation. Why don’t you change the title to a more positive one?  

The decision by all seven NCP MLAs in Nagaland to merge with chief minister Neiphiu Rio’s Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) will have major repercussions on the political developments in Maharashtra. Deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar has reacted to the development with a stiff upper lip but his ambition to make his NCP faction a ‘recognised’ national-level party will face a setback. As a result of this sudden change, the clout of Pawar in the three-party saffron alliance in the state will be dented. Even otherwise, Ajit has been caught in a tight corner time and again. The latest is the inclusion of senior OBC leader Chhagan Bhujbal in the cabinet. Although Bhujbal’s comeback will please a section of the OBC vote bank, it has adverse implications on the politics in Nasik district, an important belt in north Maharashtra. Followers of Ajit Pawar and another deputy CM Eknath Shinde, have not reacted kindly to Bhujbal’s induction. Similarly, the Maratha lobby in Ajit’s party is upset though there are no public statements. It is no secret that Bhujbal wishes to be appointed guardian minister of Nasik district. However, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has remained evasive about any decision so far. His right-hand Girish Mahajan, too, is eyeing the same post. The issue assumes significance against the backdrop of the Kumbh Mela, which takes off in Nasik late next year. The tussle between the two will be watched by both sides, indirectly impacting Ajit’s position either way.

This Durga Puja, Bengali movie buffs are in for a treat as three highly anticipated films — Debi Chowdhurani, Raktabeej 2 and Raghu Dakat –will hit the silver screen promising a blend of history, drama, and star-studded performances. Director Subhrajit Mitra’s Debi Chowdhurani based on Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s classic novel, explores the anti-British Sannyasi Rebellion and features Srabanti Chatterjee in the titular role alongside Prosenjit Chatterjee as Bhavani Pathak. Initially slated for an Independence Day release, the film, produced by Aparna Dasgupta’s Edited Motion Pictures, is now locked for a Puja debut. Subhajit points out that Big-budget films are typically reserved for Puja—it gives us time for extensive promotions. Meanwhile, acclaimed director duo Nandita Roy and Shiboprosad Mukherjee have commenced shooting for Raktabeej 2, the much-anticipated sequel to their 2023 hit Raktabeej. With Abir Chatterjee, Mimi Chakraborty, and Kanchan Mullick in key roles, the film promises a captivating blend of drama, emotion, and gripping storytelling—hallmarks of the duo’s work. The original film left a deep impact with Victor Banerjee’s portrayal of the former president, Late Pranab Mukherjee, highlighting socio-political tensions and real-life incidents. Adding to the festive buzz, Dhrubo Banerjee’s Raghu Dakat, starring Dev in the lead, aims to bring history alive with thrilling action and drama. Backed by Dev Entertainment Ventures and SVF, the film chronicles the life of the legendary Robin Hood-like figure who emerged during Bengal’s turbulent times. The ensemble cast includes Anirban Bhattacharya, Sohini Sarkar, and the much-awaited return of Roopa Ganguly.

Adivasis land has always been a bone of contention. The story in Odisha is no different. Naveen Patnaik, when he was the chief minister, tried to amend tribal reservation land law but gave up due to massive opposition from Adivasis. Now, the BJP-run government headed by Mohan Charan Majhi is treading a similar path. BJP’s revenue minister Suresh Pujari under the familiar tag “protecting Adivasis land” has launched a new initiative. According to Pujari in order to secure adivasis land, the state government will buy it and hold it for 3 years. If the tribal farmers are not able to buy back in three years’ time then the government will auction it. His objective is to ensure that tribals don’t get cheated. Political observers say this idea is a familiar debt trap story. Seldom have these tribals been able to buy back their land once it is sold to conduct a marriage or other emergencies. They say the state government will capitalise the situation by auctioning such lands at a premium to business houses and others who are desperate to acquire lands in mineral rich districts for their projects. The general feeling is that the whole process has to be transparent and before embarking this initiative it would do well for the government to frame the rules under the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act or PESA Act. It is learnt that the Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has expressed concern over the delay in framing rules.

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has activated the state machinery to ensure flawless celebration of the Nasik Kumbh, which takes off on 31 October 2026. As part of the overall preparations, tenders have been issued for the first instalment of various works costing around Rs 4000 crore. Fadnavis said another tranche of Rs 2000 crore will be announced eventually, as the work progresses. Fadnavis presided over an important meeting to supervise the mega plan at Nasik. It was attended by chief seers of 13 Akhadas and top government officials. The CM’s close confidant Girish Mahajan has been entrusted with the task of implementing various aspects concerning the Kumbh Mela, for which millions of people turn up from all over the world. The first Snaan (holy ablution) is traditionally called Shash Snaan. “It should be renamed as Amrit Snaan,” demanded Mahant Rajendra Das Maharaj.  The Kumbh Parva will ritually start on 31 October next year by unfurling the religious flag. The first Shahi Snaan will happen on 2 August 2027. The concluding Snaan will occur on 11 September 2027. The Kumbh will end on 24 July 2028, according to the tentative timeline drawn up. The final dates will be announced soon, Fadnavis said. Over the years, the Kumbh has become an important event for different reasons, some of them political. While the saffron camp capitalizes on its celebration, the so-called secular elements attack it though some of its prominent leaders don’t miss an opportunity to take a dip in the holy water and flash its pictures on social media. Hence, the Nasik Kumbh is also going to be crucial since the next Lok Sabha elections will be held within a year from then.

Kamal Haasan, a multifaceted talent known for his remarkable acting and producing prowess, has often found himself at the center of political controversies. His statements frequently spark debates, and his recent remarks have once again placed him in a contentious spotlight. While promoting his highly anticipated film Thug Life directed by the acclaimed Mani Ratnam, Haasan made a statement in Karnataka suggesting that Kannada is derived from Tamil. Although he intended this comment to reflect love and affection, it was met with immediate backlash from pro-Kannada groups and various political organizations. The timing of this controversy is particularly precarious, as Thug Life is set to release on June 5, just days away. The film, featuring music by the legendary AR Rahman, is one of Haasan’s most ambitious projects, and the surrounding controversy could jeopardize its success. Many fans, as well as fellow politicians and industry colleagues, advised Haasan to issue an apology to mitigate the situation and ensure a smoother release. However, Haasan stood firm, asserting that he had no intention of apologizing, which has only intensified the backlash. This situation is reminiscent of the challenges he faced during the release of Vishwaroopam where political controversies resulted in significant financial losses. The current climate of heightened sensitivity surrounding regional identities in India adds another layer of complexity to the issue. Haasan’s refusal to back down could alienate potential audiences in Karnataka, a significant market for his films. As the release date approaches, the tension surrounding Thug Life raises concerns about its commercial viability. The potential for protests or calls for a ban could significantly impact box office performance, making it a risky venture for Haasan and his production team.

As soon as India’s military confirmed for the first time that it lost an unspecified number of fighter jets in clashes with Pakistan in May, while saying the four-day conflict never came close to the point of nuclear war, there was some jubilation and relief in the Congress. The party without going into the nuances of what Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of Indian Armed Forces Anil Chauhan had made in his conversation with Bloomberg TV saw it as a vindication of what Rahul Gandhi has been asking from Day One about Operation Sindoor– which is about loss of jets. To amplify the admission made by the CDS in Singapore, it rushed Telangana Minister Uttam Reddy, a former IAF officer, to brag before the media how Rahul had been right all along. In the TV interview, CDS Anil Chauhan made it clear that it was not that important jets being down,”but why they were being down.” The CDS was attending the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. At the same time, Chauhan called Pakistan’s claims that it shot down six Indian warplanes as “absolutely incorrect” though declined to specify how many jets India lost. “Why they were down, what mistakes were made…that is important” General Chauhan said. “The good part is that we are able to understand the tactical mistake which we made, remedy it, rectify it, and then implement it again after two days and flew all our jets again, targeting at long range,” he added. The comments are the most direct yet from an Indian government or military official. Elated with Gen Chauhan’s disclosures, Uttam Reddy said, “As it appears very clearly, Rafale aircraft were shot down in the 4-day operations…CDS General Anil Chauhan confirmed this. The government of India should now stop denying this…”

Legendary freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar is back in focus since mixed responses are surfacing in relation to his historic contribution to the freedom struggle. The Congress party and its leader Rahul Gandhi had been the most vocal critics of Savarkar and his ardent Hindutva philosophy. Of late, there is silence on this front though stray adverse comments are heard. In a bid to rekindle its earlier policy, the Shiv Sena (UBT) has started singing the Hindutva tune. To pay homage to Savarkar, the Maharashtra government has decided to make efforts to restore his legal degree, Barrister, which the British had withdrawn after his arrest and conviction in 1910. The then Bombay University had withdrawn Savarkar’s graduation degree but it has now been restored. Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that a study and research centre in the name of Savarkar will be opened in Mumbai University’s Kalina campus. He said a provision of Rs 100 crore will be made for the purpose. Moreover, a statue of Savarkar will be erected in the premises as well. These decisions have been announced in the wake of the visit of Union home minister Amit Shah a couple of days ago. Owing to the BJP’s initiative, the other parties are compelled to fall in line. The Hindutva agenda had benefited the BJP-led Mahayuti in the assembly election held late last year by giving it an unprecedented mandate. The same formula is being used with Savarkar in focus.  

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has started following in the footsteps of veteran leader Sharad Pawar, it seems, since it is becoming difficult to predict his next steps. His many statements are such that they can be interpreted in different ways. The latest instance is the fulsome praise he has heaped on Pawar while at the same time indirectly taunting his both deputies, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar. In a media interaction, Fadnavis said that Pawar keeps on working even at this age, never bothering about victory or defeat. There won’t be any match to him, the CM said. Replying to a question about his both deputies, Fadnavis remarked that neither was good in communication. But he hurriedly said he was speaking in the lighter vein. The CM’s observation assumes significance against the backdrop of the all-out support of the Modi government by Pawar’s daughter Supriya Sule, who is heading an all-party MP delegation abroad to propagate India’s stand on Operation Sindoor. At the same time, the more frequent dialogue between Ajit Pawar and his uncle is also sending another set of signals. To top it all, BJP leaders have been declaring at every opportunity that their party will fight the coming local body elections in tandem with Ajit’s NCP and Shinde’s Shiv Sena. One definite angle that is emerging is that the Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray is most uncomfortable. It has blamed Fadnavis for this situation.

As the nation is gung ho about Operation Sindoor, there is a major political battle about who carried out the first surgical strike on Pakistan? Was it done when the Congress was in office? Or when PM Modi took charge? Congress MP Shashi Tharoor sparked off a controversy with his remark that India’s first across Line of Control (LoC) surgical strike occurred in 2016 after PM Modi came to power. The Indian Army’s records also seem to support Tharoor’s assertion, the Congress quickly distanced itself from his statement. In 2016, Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, the then-Army Northern Command Chief, stated that the September 2016 surgical strikes were a “first” of their kind. According to Tharoor, the Uri strike in September 2016 marked a significant shift in India’s approach, where the country breached the LoC to conduct a surgical strike on a terror base. He further noted that the Balakot strike in February 2019 took it a step further, crossing not only the LoC but also the international border to target terrorist headquarters. Tharoor is leading an Indian delegation to the U.S. and four other countries as part of the Centre’s global outreach in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera has been posting on X about how surgical strikes were carried out during the UPA era too and tagging Tharoor on these posts. He also cited Tharoor’s book The Paradoxical Prime Minister published in 2018 where he had questioned the “shameless exploitation” of the 2016 surgical strikes along the LOC with Pak by the Modi government which the Congress had never done. Strongly disapproving of Tharoor, Jairam Ramesh responded to one of the posts by Khera with a poetic swipe at Tharoor saying,”Oh what a tangled web we weave, when we first practice to deceive… “

In a sharp counterattack to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent address in West Bengal’s Alipurduar, chief minister Mamata Banerjee has challenged the PM to a live TV debate—teleprompter and all—and dared the BJP to call early elections in the state. Modi’s address, widely seen as the start of the BJP’s campaign for the 2026 Assembly elections, took aim at Mamata, branding her “Nirmam” (merciless) while highlighting recent communal violence in Murshidabad and Malda, the Supreme Court’s scrapping of teaching posts which left over 25,000 teachers jobless, and accusing her government of blocking Central government’s schemes. Hitting back, Didi accused the PM of engaging in “political Holi” at the expense of national interests. She dismissed his “Operation Bengal” remarks as an insult to the people of the state and pointed out that her nephew, TMC National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, was part of an MP delegation meeting global leaders—signalling her party’s commitment to protecting the nation’s interests internationally. Didi also slammed the Centre’s political motives behind naming the post-Pahalgam operation. She mocked Modi for his transformation from a self-proclaimed tea-seller to what she described as a “sindoor salesman,” a dig at his remarks that she interpreted as disrespectful to the women of Bengal. Mamata claimed that she had instructed her leaders to avoid commentary on “Operation Sindoor” despite its provocative nature. She accused the PM of spending more time on foreign trips than on India’s pressing issues and criticized what she called the erosion of federalism under Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s watch, branding him the country’s “acting Prime Minister.”

This is a common evolution in India. The Mahabharata has chronicled numerous such succession feuds as the forerunner of family groups. The latest feud is in the party of Dr S Ramadoss, founder of the Vanniyar caste party, PMK in 1989. His son Dr Anbumani’s action has made the patriarch lament in Shivaji Ganesan style “…the very son whom I loved and groomed is now kicking me on my chest”. Thanks to his father Dr Anbumani became the youngest Health Minister in Dr Manmohan Singh’s cabinet in 2004. But, in the past one year the internecine strife in PMK has come out in the open. The bone of contention seems be to Dr Ramadoss succession plan. He appointed his grandson (daughter’s progeny) Mukundan as the Youth Wing General Secretary. But Anbumani had other plans; he wanted to take over the party in toto and call the shots. It’s the same old story …a father wanting undiluted power over the progeny, and a son wanting to inherit the party which he has grown with his network. Of late, Anbumani (who has perennially ached for TN CMship) has become restive and influenced many cadres to not attend formal party meets called by the father. Add to this his wife Sowmya’s proximity to BJP and the political alchemy has turned explosive. The final nail in the coffin, Ramadoss senior alleges that in one of the family fights, the son hurled a bottle at his mother. The PMK has held sway in North Tamil Nadu and as a force cannot be ignored by any political parties for alliances. But could this family discord dismantle it. Will Dr Anbumani make amends with his father to salvage PMK? Dharmakshetra Kurukshetra.

Did Sarfaraz Khan and Shreyas Iyer get a raw deal for the five-Test series in England? Both have been given the short shrift. The set-up of Head Coach Gautam Gambhir and skipper Shubman Gill and the Selectors have sent across a message that in the present circumstances, both do not fit into the scheme of things for a challenging seven weeks tour of England. The gifted Sarfaraz scored 150 in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand last year after his team was skittled out for 46 in the first innings. He has scores of 62, 68 not out and 56 against England at home for a tally of 371 runs in six Tests. On the turning tracks at Pune and Mumbai, he, like the full Indian batting line up, came a cropper against the Kiwi spinners.  He was made to cool his heels in the five-Test series in Australia. Iyer began his Test career with 105 against New Zealand and he has played 14 Tests, his last two being against England in Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam in January-February 2024. Iyer has had serious issues with the BCCI, as a consequence of which he was taken off the central contract. Times have changed and he has returned to the big stage and given the central contract. He played a big part in India’s Champions Trophy win. But the selectors have gone back to Karun Nair who played his last Test in March 2017. Nair, now 33, had scored an unbeaten 303 against England in Chennai in December 2016. Khan has been unlucky, and Iyer has “no room” in the team according to Ajit Agarkar, the selection committee chair.  

Trust TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee to invest in Opposition politics and keep the INDIA bloc going. In fact, the Congress which fancies itself as the natural leader of this grouping may not even know what is quietly happening in the backyard. Well, the West Bengal CM took time off from her hectic schedule to catch up with her old friend Lalu Yadav, who was celebrating the birth of his grandson — born to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav and his wife Rajshree on May 27 at a private hospital at Park Street in Kolkata. Mamata dropped by to congratulate the happy parents on the birth of their second child and also catch up with happy grandparents – Rabri Devi and Lalu Yadav — who had shared the happy news on X. “This is such happy news for the family…I wish them all the very best for the upcoming (Assembly) polls (in Bihar) as well…. I am quite certain that the child will bring good luck to them,” Mamata was quoted as saying in the media. Lalu shared pictures of family members with the newborn on X. Tejashwi and Rajshree have a two-year-old daughter, Katyayani. Mamata and Lalu — both former Union railway ministers — have been close since their time together in Parliament. Tejashwi was among a select few in the INDIA bloc whom Mamata trusted as an ally, and the RJD and Trinamool have firmly endorsed each other politically on most key issues in recent memory. “Tejashwi’s wife has been here for nine months. We have been in regular touch with the family. Tejashwi texted me at 6.14am with the good news,” Mamata was quoted as saying.

The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) was up and quick as it unveiled its list of candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections from Tamil Nadu, confirming that Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) chief and veteran actor Kamal Haasan will be among the nominees. It also extended to the veteran actor the courtesy of allowing him to contest on his party symbol. The DMK’s other candidates include senior advocate and sitting MP P Wilson, renowned Tamil poet-writer Salma, and party leader SR Sivalingam. Interestingly, poet-writer Salma is believed to be close to DMK Lok Sabha MP Kanimozhi. Allocating one of its four Rajya Sabha seats to accommodate Kamal Haasan of MNM by the DMK is interesting as it shows that it kept the promise it made to the actor. Haasan, who had floated MNM, had campaigned extensively for the DMK alliance in the run-up to 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The Election Commission had declared that biennial elections to fill six vacant Rajya Sabha seats from TN will be conducted on July 19.  These vacancies arise due to the completion of the terms of six incumbent members — Anbumani Ramadoss, M Shanmugam, N Chandrasegharan, M Mohammed Abdulla, P Wilson, and Vaiko—whose tenures end on July 25. Of its retiring MPs, the DMK has chosen to retain only advocate P Wilson and brought in at least three fresh faces –SR Shivalingam, writer Salma and actor Kamal Haasan.

With the Election Commission announcing elections for six Rajya Sabha seats in the MLA quota from Tamil Nadu to be held on June 19, the race for bagging party nominations has apparently heated up in Chennai. Though the DMK and AIADMK alliances are expected to retain the same number of seats they currently hold in the Rajya Sabha, political circles are abuzz with speculation about who will succeed the outgoing members. Sources claim that since DMK had promised actor Kamal Haasan a Rajya Sabha seat before Lok Sabha elections, it may accommodate him this year. No official announcement has been made so far but the only hitch seems to be a race of sorts between Kamal Haasan and former editor of The Hindu N Ram for one of the four seats the DMK alliance is guaranteed to win. With Ram emerging as the contender, it is being said, things could be tricky as both are Iyengar Brahmins. In an election year the DMK can’t be seen giving RS seats to Brahmins. Ram is viewed as being very close to the chief minister MK Stalin. Ram is seen walking with him in the morning. As for the remaining two DMK-alliance seats, sources indicate that the DMK may continue to allot Vaiko’s seat to either Vaiko himself or another senior leader from the party. For the last seat, currently held by R Shanmugam, who represents the DMK-affiliated Labour Progressive Federation, sources say it might again be given to a trade union representative. It will also be interesting to know who will get nominated from the PMK seat given the internal rift between PMK Chief S Ramadoss and his son Anbumani Ramadoss, political observers say the chances of Anbumani being renominated are slim.

One swallow does not make a summer! However, the Supreme Court Bar Association’s resolution against officially hosting the farewell party for retiring judge Bela M Trivedi immediately followed by protocol faux pas at Chief Justice of India BR Gavai’s felicitation function in Maharashtra, reinforces cited idiom while suggesting sharp fall of Indian judicial standards. The fact that the burning cash at Supreme Court justice Yashwant Verma’s residence hasn’t been translated into a FIR as yet, well after the Supreme Court sought report into the matter was submitted into apparent judicial cold storage has begun eroding judicial faith across India. Justice Bela Trivedi’s farewell was still attended by a full courtroom to include even the SCBA Chief Kapil Sibal, notwithstanding the resolution to deny her the formally due adieu. That Sibal chose to cite her lack of empathy when he sought it for a UAPA accused client couldn’t have been more out of place particularly in the wake of Pakistani terror that failingly sought to dampen public spirit through the Pahalgam attack upon innocent domestic tourists. Even CJI Gavai’s felicitation function not being attended by Maharashtra’s chief secretary and Mumbai’s police commissioner came like a double whammy for the judiciary being only the second Dalit justice to be appointed to the top post of the Apex Court. His late father RS Gavai was the founder of the Republican Party of India based out of Maharashtra emphasizing the Amedkarism doctrine against casteism in India. The two apparent instances of patriarchy and casteism were explained as actually being borne out due to Justice Trivedi’s judicial strictness and inadvertently missing in action (read absent) government officials at the CJI’s felicitation function. Will the burning cash case also be similarly brushed off? Now, that would be truly wishful thinking!

The French reluctance over sharing source code data for India’s Rafale fleet of 36 fighter jets saw PM Narendra Modi turning to Russia for fine-tuning 16 indigenously developed “Kaveri” turbofan engines (currently being tested on modified Ilyushin 11-76 aircraft in Russia). India is now reconsidering further purchase of 26 Rafale Marine jets while looking at the Sukhoi Su-57 Felon Russian fifth-generation stealth multirole fighter as the alternative given President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to share technology, jointly collaborate to develop ‘Made in India’ production lines with deeper source code access. In modern fighter aircraft source code refers to software for effective control over mission-critical systems to include radar, electronic warfare, target acquisition and weapons release systems. Rather than depending upon recalcitrant France for every software patch or operational change resulting in limitations of weapons integration particularly, Indian-make or importer weapons, Putin’s sweet-heart deal to develop India’s stealth bomber with super manoeuvrability and advance avionics is being pursued by PM Modi who was also offered the upgraded S-500 systems in joint collaboration by President Putin last week. Further to the weapons and upgraded missile defence systems, Russia has also upped the ante on its crude oil exports to India with further rationalized tariff for Brent with India’s imports from that country now standing at 41% of its total annual oil flow. India will now procure 110 mega oil carriers to ensure a seamless flow of continuous oil slide from Russia, a tested and proven ally for decades now.

Several Congress leaders are worried about Rahul Gandhi’s approach towards the government on Operation Sindoor. They believe Rahul’s views are significantly damaging the party’s image as he is obsessed with attacking PM Modi on all issues. Though he is not directly attacking the PM but throwing barbs at External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, party leaders believe Rahul is distraught that Modi did not consider his status as the leader of the opposition (LoP) and did not ask him to lead a delegation of MPs for global outreach. He feels his status is equivalent to that of late PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee who had represented India as LoP in a crucial meeting of UNHRC in Geneva in the 90s. It seems even Mallikarjun Kharge was equally disappointed that as Rajya Sabha LoP he did not get the honour. Instead, the Modi government preferred to include those who had closely worked with the MEA or had articulated sensible views on foreign policy like Manish Tewari. It is being said that as soon as the names were out a flustered RaGa aide had even tried to lecture a senior member of the all-party panel that he must now conduct himself and not toe the government line. The senior Congress leader firmly told the caller– that in such foreign policy missions there is only one line –that is the India line. It is this subtlety that seems to be lost on the likes of Rahul Gandhi and Kharge. Congress sources said it is frustration that is driving Kharge to describe Operation Sindoor as a “chutput war”. More than the war, what is worrying Congress is that Rahul Gandhi is in the grip of two advisers he had recently recruited. Party feels he has gone haywire ever since.

Shubman Gill will have to endure the baptism by fire ordeal on his first stint as captain of the Indian team during the five-Test series in England. The first Test starts at Headingley (Leeds) from June 20, and this will be followed by severe examinations at Birmingham (Edgbaston), Lord’s (London), Old Trafford (Manchester) and The Oval (London), the series ending in the first week of August. The selection committee with Ajit Agarkar in Chair has placed faith on the 25-year-old Punjabi — with 32 Tests and 1893 runs under his belt — to deliver the goods in a country where weather conditions change by the day, and even the hour, and the local brand of Dukes ball triggers confusion in the batsmen from the Asian region. Gill has been earmarked as captain for the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship cycle, and points accrued from the England tour will throw first hints as to whether India will have a chance to finish among the two to play the final in June 2027. Gill’s first aim will be to get runs, which will boost his confidence as he learns the captaincy trade in the tough English summer. In the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma he will be expected to lead by example and show the way. The elegant right-hander has so far scored 874 as an opener at 32.37 and 1019 at No 3 at 37.73 in 32 Tests. In England, he is likely to bat at No 3. Gill follows 18 previous India captains (in England) who have led in 69 Tests and won 9 and so Gill has his task cut out!

An unstated factor in the electoral alliances of Tamil Nadu is that of funding. It is well-known in political circles that the Dravidian parties are a bit more evolved in the sense they are prepared to fund the election campaigns of smaller allies. This may be the reason why TN parties are keener on allying with the DMK or the AIADMK that are flush with party funds and do not mind spending some of it on campaigns whereas the national ruling party BJP is known to be reluctant to do so. Another unstated number is the amount per seat that the Dravidian majors are prepared to spend to give their alliances a better chance. The cash-for-vote is a far more refined process here than in other states even if it started very late, in 2009, in a bypoll that became famous as the “Thiumangalam Formula” whereby individual voters were given money or gifts. A WikiLeaks document of 2011 read, “From paying to dig a community well to slipping cash into an envelope delivered inside the morning newspaper, politicians and their operatives admitted to violating election rules to influence voters.” The money gets spread over 234 constituencies in assembly elections, making it tougher for the EC to catch loads of it, as they do in bypolls. The contests for key seats in assembly polls are known for the generosity of candidates in showering voters with cash and gifts. If some minor parties are yet to declare their alliances for the 2026 polls, it can be assumed that they are merely waiting to know how much they can expect or extract from the majors.

The all-party delegation led by Nationalist Congress Party (SP) MP Supriya Sule to propagate India’s stand concerning Operation Sindoor has started on a positive note. Sule has once again emphasized that for her party, the nation is first, the state second, then the party and finally the family. This is considered a message for the Congress party in particular and the crumbling INDIA front in general. Supriya’s father Sharad Pawar has already made it clear that domestic politics should not have any bearing on the nation’s interests, especially in the international arena. He had expressed this opinion to convey to the Shiv Sena (UBT) that he was not on the same page with it as far as Operation Sindoor was concerned. Of late, there have been consistent media reports that Pawar is likely to reach an understanding with his nephew Ajit Pawar in a bid to merge both factions of the NCP, which he founded in 1999. Ajit has split the party and the larger chunk of the organization is behind him. On the other hand, elder Pawar is in constant touch with PM Modi amidst reports that Supriya will be entrusted with a major portfolio in the Union cabinet as and when some pact is sealed between the two sides. Significantly, the NCP(SP) has refrained from making any adverse comments about Operation Sindoor or Modi.

Change is the only constant. There are no two views on that. But in this instance, it has brought good tidings to the organisation as a whole. How else could one interpret the latest development? The India Cements (ICL), which has come under the Birla-owned UltraTech Cement, has said that it has successfully completed and stabilised a de-bottlenecking initiative at Banswara Cement Works, Rajasthan. This has resulted in an increased production capacity of 0.3 MTPA. This initiative will result in the company’s grey cement manufacturing capacity increasing to 14.75 MTPA. In 2009, India Cements acquired controlling interest in a listed company — Indo-Zinc Ltd — which later became Trinetra Cement Ltd and a subsidiary of India Cements. In January 2011, Trinetra commissioned its green-field integrated cement plant known as Mahi Cement Plant at Banswara in Rajasthan with a capacity of 1.5 MTPA at a cost of Rs 600 crore. In April 2017, NCLT sanctioned the scheme of amalgamation of Trinetra Cement with India Cements. This resulted in bringing all the cement assets under one roof. Commissioned in January 2011, Banswara Cement Plant was originally set up by the company’s subsidiary Trinetra Cement (merged in 2017) in Banswara district of Rajasthan with a capacity of 1.5 MTPA. With Banswara Plant, India Cements successfully entered the northern and western by launching its popular brand Coromandel Cement riding on the popularity of IPL team CSK and iconic captain MS Dhoni, who is popularly known as Mahi. Well, the turnaround is really happening for India Cements. 

Malayalam movies are now much talked about, sought after for viewing. It has taken time for realism filled, low budget and totally identifiable cinema to overflow beyond Kerala, making 2023 and 2024 the years of Mollywood. But wait, another phenomenon has just shot to prominence to make 2025 as the year of (trumpets) Mohanlal, Lalettan. Lal is on a roll and his level of popularity as a vasool Raja is going to take a big effort by other stars to even come close. Why? Even as Empuraan 2 is on OTT, his latest hit Thudarum is going strong in theatres, delaying its OTT appearance. Lalettan’s team have just unveiled the first look of soon to release Hridayapoorvam, directed by Sathyan Anthikad, no pushover as a director of hits. Lalettan fans are giddy with anticipation for Hridayapoorvam. Malavika Mohanan, Sangeeth Parthap, Sangita, Siddique, SP Charan among others. Fans may recall that Lal has worked with Sathyan in numerous films, and this teaming up is after 10 years. Already Thudarum has swayed the audience (some say it’s another avatar of Drishyam) and word-of-mouth approval rating is high. Even as Lalettan is yet to feel the weight of adoration, two pan India films, Kannappa and Vrishaba have been announced. But the year-end bonanza for Mohan Lal fans is the film starring Mammootty, Boba, Fahad Fazil, Nayanthara , Revathi, Rajiv Menon and more. What more can an artist aspire for? Choice of directors, acceptable scripts and dedication to his craft have raised Mohan Lal to enviable heights. 2025 is definitely the year of Mohan Lal.

Alliance partners Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena (SS) and the BJP seem to be flexing over seats in the run-up to the prestigious Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections in four months. The BMC is a high-stake election for both — while the BJP’s never had its own mayor thus far in Mumbai, for Shinde it’s a chance to chart out his own space. The BJP is aiming for 150 seats with Mission 150 proclaimed as its mission statement, Shinde is targeting 100 seats in the 227-strength of the BMC where 114 seats are needed to reach a majority. Shinde publicly claims the support of 65 corporators and is actively wooing ex-corporators beyond Uddhav Thackeray’s Sena. Shinde’s Sena has already started holding meetings with current and ex-corporators wooing them with promises of funds for works from his urban development and housing ministry and even from the District Planning and Development Committee (DPDC), where being guardian minister of Mumbai City he is its chairman. Beyond the trappings of power, Shinde also holds the advantage of being an accessible leader unlike Uddhav Thackeray, a fact which he keeps harping on. Uddhav, who held the highest tally of 84 corporators that later extended to 90, had the BJP closely following him with 82 corporators, is now fighting them back with conciliatory notes to his cousin Raj Thackeray, who had seven corporators.

Kartik Aaryan has recently made headlines by clinching two of the most prestigious awards in Indian cinema: the Popular Best Actor for ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ and Critics’ Best Actor for ‘Chandu Champion’ at the Zee Cine Awards 2025. This remarkable achievement underscores his versatility as an actor, proving that he is not only adored by fans but also respected by critics. His recent film, Chandu Champion portraying the character of Paralympics Gold Medalist Murlikant Petkar has garnered significant praise, highlighting his ability to take on diverse roles. Additionally, his portrayal of the quirky Rooh Baba in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 further solidified his status as a popular actor earning him accolades and recognition. Kartik’s journey has not been without its challenges. He faced a significant setback when he had a public fallout with renowned filmmaker Karan Johar. Reports surfaced claiming that Aaryan was unprofessional, so Johar’s Dharma Production dropped him from Dostana 2. It was followed by Shah Rukh Khan promoted Red Chillies Entertainment dropping him from Good-Bye Freddie. This conflict with such a heavyweight in the industry was a bold move, demonstrating his courage and confidence. Despite the controversy, Kartik managed to deliver hits like Satya Prem Ki Katha and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 establishing himself as a bankable star. In an unexpected turn of events, news has emerged that Kartik and Karan are set to collaborate on a new film. This development serves as a reminder that in the film industry, relationships can be complex and ever-changing. It is a testament to Kartik’s maturity that he can mend fences and move forward, proving that in Bollywood like politics there are no permanent friends, no permanent enemies, only permanent interests.

In the last few days OBC politics has heated up in Odisha. This is because Mohan Charan Majhi’s cabinet has now played the Socially and Economically backward classes (SEBC) quota card which is now stoking both Opposition and public’s attention. It is premature to assess whether caste matrix will play a big role in Odisha politics, what is clear is both Congress and BJD are now geared towards building a new narrative to keep BJP under pressure henceforth. The scenario in Bhubaneswar near the Governor’s House seems to be a replay of Mandal Commission era packed. The leaders and cadres from both BJD and Congress parties are camping here demanding a 27% reservations quota card for OBC, SC and ST students, citing it as a constitutional right which is followed by the rest of India.  The BJP government headed by Majhi government has approved only 11.25% for SEBC. The Opposition parties are saying that the SEBC quota does not extend to professional courses and that the percentage is not proportionate to population. Informed sources say this agitation could spread to other parts of the state. In retaliation to BJD’s aggressive posture, BJP’s state president Manmohon Samal has ignited another fire by stating that during Biju Patnaik’s (Naveen’s father) rule, he had challenged the reservation system in the Supreme Court. Effectively, he seems to be asking Naveen babu why this change of heart. 

Worried by the absence of any firm signal from other INDIA front constituents, the Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray has decided to once again try the Marathi Card for the coming local body elections, due later this year in Maharashtra. The Congress and the NCP led by Sharad Pawar have time and again expressed dissent with Sena’s outbursts against the so-called ‘outsiders’ and not responded to its call for contesting the elections as a team. Sena MP Sanjay Raut has appealed to the followers to consider the consequences if his party loses the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and other local body elections. Raut’s impassioned appeal has the backdrop of various recent developments within his organization and the confusing response by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray to the feelers sent by Uddhav Sena about coming together. The next course of Maharashtra politics will largely depend upon the outcome of the local elections since the clout of various top leaders will be tested through this mandate. The NDA led by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that these elections will be faced by the BJP, the Sena led by Eknath Shinde and the NCP led by Ajit Pawar as a team. The inclusion of powerful OBC leader Chhagan Bhujbal has added to the vigour of the NDA while the Sena (UBT) is plagued by frequent desertions by some of its ardent workers to the faction led by Shinde. Alarmed by such factors, the Sena (UBT) has decided to reignite the Marathi Card campaign. 

Was Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray unaware of the inclusion of his party’s Rajya Sabha member Priyanka Chaturvedi in an all-party team visiting various countries to explain India’s side regarding Operation Sindoor? It is now learnt that Priyanka herself informed Uddhav about her selection for the foreign tours by Parliamentary Affairs minister Kiren Rijiju. This created a problem since Uddhav wished to send his trusted lieutenant Anil Desai, who had been elected from central Mumbai to the Lok Sabha. When Uddhav told her that it was his right to select a party nominee for the visits, Priyanka sensed a threat to her opportunity and urged Rijiju to intercede and persuade Uddhav, who finally relented after the minister called up with the request. This has upset Desai as this is the second occasion to miss the bus for him. In 2014, he was a Rajya Sabha member. Following Uddhav’s message, he flew to Delhi to take oath as a member of the Union council of ministers under Narendra Modi but was summoned to return to Mumbai forthwith instead. Desai thus landed in Delhi and took a return flight to Mumbai. The reason for this sudden change has not been divulged so far. The other Uddhav confidant to feel abandoned is MP Sanjay Raut, who had dismissed the Indian government’s initiative as a tourism gimmick aimed at diverting attention from the main issues. He was chided for this stand by veteran leader Sharad Pawar, who told Raut not to mix internal politics with national outreach abroad.

The unbearable summer heat and humidity quotient in Tamil Nadu were further intensified by the fierce exchange between chief minister MK Stalin and AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS), even as Stalin took off to participate in the NITI Aayog meet. Viral watchers had a field time lapping up this internecine exchange. EPS reminded his bête noire about how Stalin had thundered about boycotting NITI Aayog for not giving TN its dues in funds. What turned the wheels now? EPS scorched …this sudden urge to fly to Delhi is not for TN but saving his family. Remember his late father and the 2G rescue mission? Stalin is all set to open a white truce umbrella for the family rescue. Stalin is talking about a mystery Thambi (younger brother). Who is this Thambi he wants to save? The CM, no novice at cutting edge filmi dialogue, gave it back. Edappadi has not changed from his fabled ambulatory mode …crawling and creeping to clasp feet. So why carp and crow about my visit?  It took just one raid for his party to strike an alliance with BJP and float the white flag manoeuvre. Stalin’s repartee, this hand which has waved the Red and Black DMK flag, a super emblem of scholars and statesmen, Arignar Anna and Kalaignar, will never creep and crawl for favours. His dialogue could be straight out of the cult classic Parasakti which took both Karunanidhi and Shivaji Ganesan to dizzying heights of artistic popularity. Meanwhile EPS is still asking the question “Who is this shadow superman…the charismatic Thambi hailed by you and your son? Has he flown the coop? If you have guts and integrity reveal Thambi’s identity”. The people of TN want to know.

A fresh political controversy has erupted in Maharashtra after around Rs 1.80 crore was seized by the police from a government guest house in Dhule. The stash is alleged to be linked to Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) MLA Arjun Khotkar, who has denied any connection with the cash. The seizure took place after former MLA and Sena (UBT) leader Anil Gote staged a sit-in protest outside the room in which the money was kept. Gote has said that the funds were collected from contractors to be passed on to members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly’s Estimates Committee during its visit to Dhule-Nandurbar districts. The money was kept in a room booked in the name of Kishor Patil, personal assistant of Committee chairman, Arjun Khotkar, who was a minister during the first stint of Devendra Fadnavis as chief minister. While Fadanvis has announced the setting up of a special team to investigate the matter, Patil has been suspended from the legislature’s service. Gote has remained a controversial figure in north Maharashtra politics. Initially a dashing journalist, he later started working under farmers’ leader Sharad Joshi but parted ways after some time. Gote was close to then BJP boss Gopinath Munde and was elected to the assembly once as a candidate of that party from Dhule. However, the relationship was short-lived. The Estimates Committee visits various on-going government projects and formulates a report based on its observations. The report is vital for the contractors executing the projects since the disbursements towards the work done by them depends upon the Committee’s remarks. Thus, hundreds of crore rupees are involved in the entire chain.

In an interesting political twist in Karnataka politics, Deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar made a large-hearted move and defended his colleague Home Minister G Parameshwara for giving money — transferring Rs 40 lakhs to actor Ranya Rao, the main accused in the gold smuggling case. This was unexpected as Parameshwara had only appealed to CM Siddaramaiah for help. DKS supporters are pleased that at least one of the obstacles to DKS succeeding Siddaramaiah as CM by end of 2025 has been tamed with this gesture. Encouraged by Siddaramaiah, Parameshwara had been opposing DKS’s elevation, projecting himself as the most suitable candidate to be Karnataka’s first Dalit CM. He suffered a significant setback after the ED began conducting raids on educational institutions owned by him on May 21. The raids are linked to a financial transaction in which money was transferred to Ranya Rao’s account from one of Parameshwara’s institutions. DKS said Parameshwara had given money as a gift. DKS more than clarified…he even went on to give Parameshwara a clean chit saying it wasn’t possible for his institutions to fund illegal activities. DKS, as KPCC chief, visited Parameshwara. “He told me he had given Rs 15 to 25 lakh. We are all in public life. Many of us run trusts. During weddings and other occasions, it is common to give gifts.” Sources reveal that the educational trust associated with Parameshwara allegedly paid off actor Ranya Rao’s credit card bill of Rs 40 lakh. The bill was reportedly cleared following instructions from an influential individual. She is now under intense scrutiny, with hawala operators confessing to purchasing gold from her. Fearing the worst, Parameshwara called on Siddaramaiah to explain his position.

Is Mamata Banerjee changing her approach towards PM Modi? There has been speculation within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) that her nephew and party national general secretary, Abhishek Banerjee, is advising her to tone down her criticism of the PM and the BJP, as he believes the ED and CBI are closing in on him in various corruption cases. For some time now, Mamata’s directive to TMC leaders not to make any personal comments against Modi has been followed by them. Abhishek has been particular that the TMC should not appear to be disallowing the BJP from functioning as an Opposition party by using police and administration. The latest episode involving Abhishek joining one of the MPs’ delegations for global outreach after Operation Sindoor has caused a surprise. A day after Didi withdrew her MP, Yusuf Pathan, who had been named by the government, from a multi-party delegation, she nominated Abhishek to replace him. This was after Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju reached out to Mamata to “pacify her”. Mamata is learnt to have told Rijiju that the Centre should have consulted the party instead of unilaterally picking Pathan. After Rijiju’s call, she also announced that a five-member team will visit Srinagar, Poonch and Rajouri to express solidarity with the people affected by cross-border shelling by Pakistan. She is sending Rajya Sabha MPs like Derek O Brien and Sagarika Ghose to J&K. It is being said Mamata withdrew Yusuf Pathan from the delegation only because she hasn’t been happy with him. She had found the former cricketer who hails from Gujarat is an absentee MP. He was nowhere to be seen in the aftermath of Murshidabad violence. He is apparently getting away only because of his proximity to influential bhaipo Abhishek.

When two geniuses come together after a 38-year hiatus making Nayakan, director Mani Rathnam and hero Kamal Haasan have spared no gimmick to launch Thug Life as a money spinner hit. Suddenly cinematic audiences have turned analytical and critical of films both big budget and small chillar. It’s a guessing gambling game to predict what would draw crowds. So when the teasers and promos of Thug Life started, guesswork too sparked fast. Is it an anthology of earlier Rathnam hits? Nayakan, Thalapathi and other creative films that the audience lapped up? With June 5 set as release date, the first single song Jinguchan already rocked wedding sangeet. The entire marquee cast danced for Jinguchan. But it is the second song Sugar Baby which features heroine Trisha in a near item number (which slays Kamal with his cinematic penchant for steamy close ups) that has set off a viral fest…all kinds of reactions are pouring in. Not that the audience is averse to titillating scenes. But one wonders why use the heroine for such a raunchy number? The bigger controversy raging is the 30-year age gap between Kamal and Trisha and the song is appropriately named Sugar Baby as foil to Sugar Daddy? The next question is, what is Abirami doing in the film? Probably she is paired with Simbu but leaks of Kamal romancing Abirami too have made the rounds. Obviously, the piper calls the tune and Kamal in keeping with his status as Ulaga Nayakan has a love interest in both. The artistic genius of both director and lead have sketched out promos that keep the audience panting for the movie. Thug Life is expected to walk away with audience craze in slick story telling.

The familiar image of Mohan Charan Majhi being an honest simple tribal chief minister of Odisha does not fly any more. His performance scorecard is slipping and he has a lot of catching up to do in respect of promise versus performance. Sources say he is missing in the areas of swift action covering many disciplines namely, revenue earnings, central grants, addressing local inflation concerns, commanding leadership, quick deliverance and service to the people as yet.. Majhi, it is learnt, has realised his shortcomings. This explains why he has warned government officers to shape up or face dismissal recently. Political commentator Ruben Banerjee says Majhi is under pressure to deliver results. According to Banerjee, during Naveen Patnaik’s BJD regime the Odisha government’s tax collection had increased by over 16.91% in 2024-25 but under BJP rule it has increased by only 3.65%. In respect to minerals and mines revenue, BJD had increased it by 29.37% in 2023-2024 but this year 2024-25 under Majhi government the revenue is down by -3.66%. There is a perception that the Odisha government earns a decent sum via mining activities but it does not seem currently. During BJD’s rule in 2023-24 it had increased by 19.67% but under BJP in 2024-25 it is minus -9.69 %. Likewise, revenue collection from iron ore mines has also dropped.

The stupendous success and impactful delivery of Indian missiles upon the Pakistani land targets, in no small measure boosted by using the Russian S-400 surface-to-air, anti-ballistic missile systems, will now be upgraded through the S-500 version that President Putin has offered India along with the ‘Made-in-India’ tag for manufacturing and exporting across the globe. The Russian offer came four days ago and seeks to cement Indo-Russian ties further through joint collaboration, setting up a manufacturing base in India. Simultaneously, India has upped the ante against both Turkey and Azerbaijan that achieved the distinction of being the only two nations in the world that supported the terrorist Pakistani nation in its limited-capability war launched upon India. According to well-placed sources Turkey stands to lose out on the bulk of the annual Rs 600 crore tourism business it generates out of India, through tourists visiting the nation with close to 60% of scheduled tourist travellers to that nation having cancelled their plans this year. Similarly, Islamic Azerbaijan’s miscalculated support for Pakistan will now witness Indian weaponry arming the mostly Christian Armenia that has been in a state of war with that nation since 2020 when Azerbaijan attacked its neighbour. The South Caucasian nation (Armenia), that signed a defence deal with India in 2022 for 15 Akash missile systems, is set to further receive multiple launch rocket systems, anti-tank rockets, and ammunition. While Turkey suffers an economically gloomy fate similar to Maldives, both of whose economies are sustained through Indian tourism, Azerbaijan will find itself up against an Indian weapon system bolstering Armenia in the coming days.

Odisha government’s profit-making Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) at Bhubaneswar is likely to be privatised. The process to privatise the airport, set up in 1962 which handles 4.2 million passengers annually has already started by the Airport Authority of India.  Already the names of Adani, GMR and Zurich Airport Ltd are doing the rounds. But the general thinking is that the Union government may not be particularly inclined towards Adani to avoid a monopoly situation in the country. The tilt is towards Zurich Airport known for its world class management and security controls which is now constructing the new International Airport in Noida near Delhi. There is a strong feeling that Naveen Patnaik’s party, Biju Janata Dal, may oppose the privatisation move. It is understood that whoever wins the bid has to factor in absorbing 60% manpower cost or continue paying salaries till employees’ retirement age. With BPIA being privatised what happens to Puri’s ambitious international airport project backed by the Odisha government? That’s a big question mark as AAI is now fully focussed on how to utilise BPIA’s existing airport space which is not yet fully tapped.