FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2026 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng N ew s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tin en t Pub li s hed From the U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 35 No. 15 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday April 10, 2026 Amb Vinay Kwatra highlights expanding India-US ties during Vikram Misri’s visit to Washington ` Washington DC [US], April 8 (ANI): Indian Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, welcomed Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to Washington DC, emphasising the visit as a key opportunity to review and deepen the comprehensive India-US partnership. The discussions are expected to cover critical areas, including trade, defence, technology, and evolving regional and global developments, reflecting the growing strategic alignment between the two nations. In a post on X, Kwatra wrote, “Welcomed Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to Washington, D.C.” “His visit offers an opportunity to review with our US partners the full breadth of the India-U.S. partnership, and to advance discussions across key pillars of our bilateral agenda - including trade, defence, technology, and exchange perspectives on regional and global developments,” he said. Earlier, in an official statement, the MEA said that the Foreign Secretary’s visit to Washington DC would, “provide an opportunity to review the full spectrum of India-U.S. bilateral relations and advance ongoing cooperation across key areas.” It underlined that the visit of FS Misri follows the visit by EAM S Jaishankar to Washington DC earlier in February and is in keeping with the regular high-level exchanges between the two sides. US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, is also present in the United States.Meanwhile, Misri’s visit comes at a crucial time as the US accepts Iran’s ten-point plan. US President Donald Trump suspended the “bombing and attack” campaign on Iran, announcing a two-week double-sided ceasefire and accepting the 10-point proposal from Iran. The Iranian side then accepted Trump’s peace overture and agreed to safe passage via the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks, as well as a pause in military operations. (ANI) Remember: A coward is incapable of exhibiting love; it is the prerogative of the brave. Mahatma Gandhi Amaravati now sole capital of Andhra Pradesh; CM thanks President Murmu, PM Modi Amaravati (Andhra Pradesh) [India], April 7 (ANI): The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Act, 2026, on Tuesday was published in the Gazette after receiving the President’s assent, making Amaravati the sole capital of Andhra Pradesh. Sharing the Gazette publication on X, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced, “The capital of Andhra Pradesh is Amaravati.” CM N Chandrababu Naidu welcomed the recognition of Amaravati as the state’s sole capital, expressing gratitude towards President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a post on X, Naidu said, ” On behalf of my people of Andhra Pradesh, I express profound gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu Ji for her gracious assent to the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Act, 2026, fulfilling the long-cherished dream of our capital. I thank the Union Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji for his commitment to our state and his guidance, all MPs who supported the Bill, our state leaders, and every citizen who stood with us. This is a victory for my people of Andhra Pradesh, especially my farmers of Amaravati.” The Act amended the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, adding the phrase, “Amaravati shall be the new capital.” After Telangana was formed as a separate state, the original Act of 2014 stated that Hyderabad shall be the common capital for Telangana and Andhra Pradesh for a period not exceeding ten years, after which Hyderabad shall be the capital of Telangana, and there shall be a new capital for the successor Andhra Pradesh. On March 28, the Andhra Pradesh Assembly passed a resolution supporting Amaravati as the single capital, paving the way for the introduction of the legislation in the Parliament. After the Lok Sabha passed the Bill on April 1, the Upper House of the Parliament too passed it the next day, while the YSR Congress Party MPs staged a walkout. YSRCP MP Golla Babu Rao called the legislation “a drama” and questioned the rationale behind it. Underlining the possibility of constitutional amendments, he said that the capital should be changed only if justice is being served to its people. (ANI) spectively,” Malhotra stated. “Inflation in fuel terms remained modest during this period. For the full year, the Consumer Price Index inflation is projected at 4.6 per cent.” The quarterly inflation outlook placed the first quarter at 4 per cent and the second quarter at 4.4 per cent. Price pressures are expected to rise to 5.2 per cent in the third quarter before moderating to 4.7 per cent in the final quarter. The Governor warned that elevated energy and other commodity prices are likely to impact growth this year, particularly as imported crude oil prices could push inflation higher. The Reserve Bank of India also kept the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent in the first monetary policy announcement of the financial year 2026-27, citing rising global uncertainties and geopolitical tensions.Announcing the decision, Malhotra said that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously voted to maintain the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility at 5.25 per cent. Governor stated, “After the detailed assessment of the evolving macroeconomic and financial developments and the outlook, the MPC voted unanimously to keep the policy repo rate unchanged under the liquidity facility at 5.25 per cent. C o n s e q u e n t l y, the SDR rate remains at 5 per cent and the MSF rate and the bank rate at 5.5 per cent”.”Consequently, the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate remains at 5 per cent and the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate and the bank rate at 5.5 per cent,” he said.The MPC meeting was held on April 6, 7 and 8 to assess the evolving macroeconomic and financial conditions before arriving at the decision. (ANI) RBI lowers GDP growth for FY 27 to 6.9%; Inflation hiked to 4.6% due to West Asia crisis, spike in crude prices New Delhi [India], April 8 (ANI): Real GDP growth for the current year is projected at 6.9 per cent, the Governor of Reserve Bank of India, Sanjay Malhotra, said on Wednesday. The Governor projected that the growth trajectory for the year showed a steady pattern across all four quarters. The central bank estimated first-quarter growth at 6.8 per cent, followed by 6.7 per cent in the second quarter. Projections for the third and fourth quarters stood at 7 per cent and 7.2 per cent, respectively. Under the new GDP series, growth for the 2026 fiscal year was estimated at 7.6 per cent.”Headline inflation for January and February stayed below the target at 2.7 per cent and 3.7 per cent, re-
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2026 Assam Assembly polls 2026: 2,50,54,463 RBI Governor says forex interto decide fate of 722 candidates on vention only to curb volatility not electors Guwhati (Assam) aspects, including law and the sensitive polling stations April 8 (ANI): order and election expendi- to ensure smooth conduct of targeting specific level of Rupee [India], More than 2.5 crore elec- ture, the EC has already de- polling, the release stated. Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 8 (ANI): The Reserve Bank of India on Wednesday reiterated that its intervention in the foreign exchange market is aimed solely at curbing excessive volatility and not at targeting any specific level of the rupee. Speaking during the monetary policy announcement, RBI Governor, Sanjay Malhotra said, “Despite the stronger macroeconomic fundamentals, the Indian rupee in the last financial year depreciated more than average in the previous year.... our exchange rate policy remains unchanged. Specifically, intervention in the foreign exchange market is aimed at smoothing excessive and disruptive volatility without targeting any specific level or band of price for the exchange rate.” The statement comes at a time when the Indian rupee has witnessed significant fluctuations in recent weeks. The rupee was trading at around 91 per US dollar at the beginning of March but saw heightened volatility during the month, breaching the 95 mark against the dollar at one point. However, the currency has since stabilised and is currently trading at around 92.5 per US dollar. The RBI Governor noted that despite stronger macroeconomic fundamentals, the rupee depreciated more than the average seen in the previous year during the last financial year. Reaffirming the central bank’s stance, he said the exchange rate policy remains unchanged and is aligned with the long-standing principle of a market-determined currency. He emphasised that the RBI does not aim to defend any particular level of the rupee but intervenes only to prevent excessive and disruptive movements that may not be justified by economic fundamentals. The central bank also highlighted that it will continue to act judiciously to ensure that volatility does not lead to self-fulfilling expectations that could further amplify currency movements. The remarks indicate that while the RBI remains watchful of sharp fluctuations in the rupee, it is not attempting to artificially control its value. Instead, the focus remains on maintaining orderly market conditions and preventing undue volatility, especially in the backdrop of global uncertainties and geopolitical developments that have impacted currency markets. The recent cooling of the rupee from its peak volatility levels suggests that market conditions have stabilised to some extent, even as the RBI continues to monitor the situation closely. (ANI) tors across the state of Assam are set to exercise their franchise on April 9 (Thursday), electing a new 126 legislative assemblu from over 722 candidates, with the Election Commission of India (EC) fully prepared to conduct polling in a free, fair, and peaceful manner. 722 candidates are in the fray in this election, and a total of 2,50,54,463 electors will exercise their franchise. This includes 1,25,31,552 male voters, 1,25,22,593 female voters, and 318 voters in the Transgender category. There are also 63,423 service voters. Among the electorate, 6,42,314 voters are in the age group of 18-19 years, 2,50,006 are above 80 years of age, and 2,05,085 are persons with disabilities. According to the press release by the EC, under the leadership of the Chief Electoral Officer of Assam, Anurag Goel, all concerned are carrying out their responsibilities with utmost diligence. To ensure strict monitoring of all ployed central observers. In addition, under the SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) programme, extensive awareness campaigns have been undertaken to encourage greater voter participation across the State. To strengthen the monitoring mechanism, webcasting facilities have been arranged in accordance with the Commission’s directions. Webcasting has been enabled in all 31,490 polling stations, including 31,486 main polling stations and 4 auxiliary polling stations. This will allow real-time monitoring of polling processes from the offices of the District Election Officers, the Chief Electoral Officer, and the Election Commission of India. Further, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), including CRPF personnel, have been deployed to ensure security at polling stations. Micro observers are also deputed in Basic minimum facilities have been ensured at all polling stations, including drinking water, waiting areas, toilets, and wheelchairs for persons with disabilities. Arrangements for seating (benches) near voter queues and facilities for safekeeping of mobile phones have also been made.A total of 1,51,132 polling personnel have been deployed for the conduct of the election. For polling purposes, 41,320 Ballot Units, 43,975 Control Units, and 43,997 VVPAT machines have been arranged, including reserves for emergency use. Additional polling personnel have also been kept in readiness, if required. Further, as per Section 60(c) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Election Commission has provided the optional facility of voting from home through postal ballot for senior citizens above 85 years of age and identified persons with disabilities.
3 Stylish Senior Living Is Here EXPLORE OUR RESIDENCES Find the perfect floor plan to fit your style and budget at an Erickson Senior Living®managed community near you! • Ashby Ponds® Ashburn, VA • The Grandview℠ Bethesda, MD • Greenspring® Springfield, VA • Woodleigh Chase® Fairfax, VA • Riderwood® Silver Spring, MD Call 1-800-691-2034 or visit EricksonSeniorLiving.com for your free brochure. 2535500 EricksonSeniorLiving.com Udhayanidhi confident of DMK return in Tamil Nadu; BJP outlines tribalfocused agenda in Tripura; Kokrajhar sees tight contest ahead of Assam polls Pudukkottai/ Chennai/Khumulwng/ New Delhi, April 5 (ANI): Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Sunday expressed confidence that Chief Minister M. K. Stalin will return to power after the upcoming Assembly elections, asserting that there is “no doubt” about the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam’s (DMK) victory. Campaigning in Pudukkottai for DMK candidate Muthuraja, Udhayanidhi alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is attempting to gain a foothold in Tamil Nadu by using the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) as a “mask.” He criticised AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami, calling him a “puppet” of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and alleged that the Centre is trying to control the state through him. Highlighting the DMK government’s welfare initiatives, Udhayanidhi listed schemes such as the women’s rights programme, free breakfast scheme, and financial aid for college students. He said that if re-elected, the government would increase assistance for women to Rs. 2,000, provide Rs.8,000 appliance coupons, and raise aid for women students to Rs.1,500 per month. Rejecting allegations by the AIADMK, he denied that the DMK had discontinued the laptop scheme and accused the Centre of withholding funds and ignoring Tamil Nadu in the Union Budget. Calling the election a contest between “Delhi and Tamil Nadu,” he urged voters to back the DMK to continue the Dravidian model of governance. Earlier in Chennai, Udhayanidhi made similar remarks, alleging that the Centre was attempting to control Tamil Nadu through the AIADMK. Launching his campaign in Aiyodhya Nagar, he travelled by auto-rickshaw to connect with voters and highlighted his work during the COVID-19 pan- demic and floods. He also took a swipe at Palaniswami, challenging him to list achievements from his tenure, and criticised the Centre for allegedly rejecting metro rail projects in Coimbatore and Madurai while approving projects in smaller cities. Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23 across 234 constituencies, with counting scheduled for May 4. Meanwhile, in Tripura, the BJP on Sunday unveiled its manifesto for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections. Chief Minister Manik Saha said the document reflects the aspirations of tribal communities and promised a transparent administration based on 29 key commitments. Addressing a rally, Saha asserted that the election represents an opportunity to “create history,” expressing confidence that the BJP would win all seats with strong support from indigenous communities. He highlighted welfare measures such as increased social pensions and recognition of tribal individuals with national honours, and announced plans to establish two medical colleges, a nursing institute in Khumulwng, and 21 Eklavya Model Residential Schools in tribal areas. Saha also noted that more than 500 supporters, including former Tipra Motha candidate Amiya Dayal Noatia, had joined the BJP. He said the government has prioritised development in TTAADC areas and pledged continued focus on schemes for tribal welfare. In Assam, the Kokrajhar Assembly constituency has emerged as a key battleground ahead of the April 9 polls, with a close contest expected between the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) and the United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL). The seat is considered politically significant as it often reflects the broader dynamics of the Bodoland Territorial Region. The BPF has fielded Sewli Mohilary, while incumbent MLA Lawrence Islary of the UPPL seeks re-election. The Congress-led alliance has nominated Manik Chandra Brahma, aiming to consolidate minority and non-Bodo votes. Key electoral issues in the constituency include road connectivity, irrigation, employment, and access to clean drinking water. Assam will vote in a single phase on April 9, with results to be declared on May 4. (ANI)
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2026 1,777 Indians brought back from Iran via Armenia, Azerbaijan amid conflict: MEA New Delhi [India], April 6 (ANI): The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday said that India has facilitated the return of 1,777 Indian nationals from Iran amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which is currently in its second month. It noted that the facilitation was made possible by support from the authorities of Iran, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Speaking during an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in the region, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Indian Embassy in Tehran has been actively coordinating evacuation efforts.” Our embassy in Tehran has so far facilitated the movement of 1,777 Indian nationals in Iran to Armenia and Azerbaijan. From there, they have been flying back to India,” he said. He added that the total includes 895 Indian students and 345 Indian fishermen who were employed by various companies in Iran. The fishermen were evacuated via Armenia and flew back to India on April 4, landing in Chennai. Following their arrival, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar expressed gratitude towards Armenian counterpart Ararat Mirzoyan for facilitating the evacuation of Indian fishermen from Iran amid the conflict.”Thank FM Ararat Mirzoyan and the Government of Armenia for facilitating the evacuation of Indian fishermen today from Iran, through Armenia to India,” Jaishankar wrote in a post on X. The MEA spokesperson further noted that, in addition to Indian nationals, the embassy also assisted two foreign nationals–one from Bangladesh and one from Sri Lanka–in their evacuation. Providing a breakdown, Jaiswal said that 1,545 Indian nationals crossed into Armenia, while 234 were moved to Azerbaijan as part of the evacuation process. “The embassy, along with the Indian na- tionals, has also facilitated the movement of two foreign nationals–one from Bangladesh and one from Sri Lanka. Of the total, 1,545 Indian nationals crossed over from Armenia and 234 to Azerbaijan,” the MEA spokespersons said. Speaking on the number of Indian nationals who were killed in the conflict, Jaiswal said that eight people have died during the ongoing conflict, while one individual remains missing. He stated that the mortal remains of seven of those individuals were brought back to India, while the one is still pending due to some technicalities. In Oman”A total of eight people have died during the conflict in West Asia, and one person is still missing. Seven of their mortal remains were brought back to India, while one is still pending due to some technicalities. Our embassy in Oman is making every effort to bring the remaining mortal remains back to India,” he added. The conflict in West Asia began following US-Israeli joint military strikes on Iran on February 28 that assassinated Iran’s 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.Tehran, in retaliation, targeted Israel and US assets in several Gulf countries, causing disruption in the waterways and affecting international energy markets and global economic stability. (ANI) Dibrugarh (Assam) [India], April 6 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said he has urged Congress to give full support to the proposed amendment to the Women’s Reservation Bill, which would be taken up during the special sitting of the Parliament later this month and said the opposition party should not do politics over the issue. Addressing a rally here, PM Modi said that there would be discussion during the special sitting of Parliament on April 16, 17 and 18 so that provision is made for implementation of one-third reservation for women from 2029 Lok Sabha elections and hoped that the decision would be made unanimously. He accused the Congress of stalling the issue of women’s reservation for years and said the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, through which sisters and daughters will get 33% reservation in the country’s Parliament and the Assam Legislative Assembly as well, was passed when BJP-led NDA government was in power. “A special session of Parliament is scheduled for April 16, 17, and 18, in which there will be a discussion on amendments to the women’s reservation law. Provisions will be made that at least 33 per cent of women become MPs in the 2029 Lok Sabha elections,” he said. “I have also urged Congress that it should not do politics on this, give full support to the amendment so that a decision in favour of women is made unanimously,” he added. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh alleged last week that the government’s decision for Parliament‘s sitting on April 16,17,18 was a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. He said the government had earlier decided to implement the Women’s Reservation Bill from the 2034 polls based on the new Census when Congress was demanding its early implementation. The Congress leader said the party had suggested that an all-party meeting should be held on April 29 after the conclusion of the assembly polls. Lok Sabha has 543 seats and a proposed 50 per cent increase will take the number to 816, with 273 (about a third) reserved for women.Sources had said earlier that a bill will be introduced in Parliament to amend the existing Women’s Reservation Act, along with a separate Delimitation Bill. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday sought support of all parties for the government’s legislative agenda. “Empowerment of women is our commitment. We must come together for the empowerment of women, not play politics,” Rijiju told ANI. (ANI) Two vessels carrying over 60,000 MT of LPG to reach India this week: Union Shipping Ministry The Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Ministry on Monday stated that two Indian-flagged vessels carrying over 60,000 metric tonnes of LPG have transited through the Strait of Hormuz in recent days and are expected to reach India this week amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Speaking during an inter-ministerial briefing here, Additional Sec- Have urged Congress not to do politics on proposed changes in Women’s Reservation Act, provisions will be effective for 2029 LS polls: PM Modi retary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Mukesh Mangal, said the vessels – Green Sadhvi and Green Asha – are scheduled to arrive on April 7 and April 9, respectively, though timelines may change. He noted that the vessels are part of a broader fleet of 16 Indian-flagged ships currently operating in the Western Persian Gulf region. Mangal informed that over the past two days, Green Sangvi and Green Asha have safely transited through the Strait of Hormuz, with Green Sangvi carrying around 46,000 metric tonnes of LPG with 25 Indian seafarers onboard, while Green Asha is carrying about 15,000 metric tonnes with 26 seafarers onboard.” Over the past two days, two Indian-flagged vessels – named Green Sangvi and Green Asha – which are carrying LPG cargo, have safely transited the Strait of Hormuz. The Green Sangvi is carrying approximately 46,000 metric tonnes of LPG cargo and has 25 Indian seafarers on board, while the Green Asha is carrying 15,000 metric tonnes of LPG cargo and has 26 seafarers. Currently, there are 16 Indian-flagged vessels present in the Western Persian Gulf region, with a total of 433 Indian seafarers on board,” the ADDL. Secretary said.”Green Sadhvi is expected to arrive by April 7, and the Green Asha by April 9,” he added. Providing details on the 16 Indian-flagged vessels in the region, Mangal said that among them, one vessel is loaded with LNG, while there are two LPG vessels–one empty and one fully loaded. He added that there are six crude oil vessels, of which five are loaded, and one is empty, along with three container vessels, one dredger, one chemical tanker, and two bulk cargo vessels.Mangal further stated that the Ministry is closely monitoring shipping movements, port operations, and the safety of Indian nationals in the region, while ensuring continuity of maritime trade.” The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is continuously monitoring shipping movements, port operations, and the safety of Indian citizens. \ The Ministry is ensuring the continuity of maritime trade. All Indian citizens in this region remain safe. In the last 24 hours, no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels have been reported,” he noted. The additional secretary further stated that a total of 1,599 Indian seafarers were safely repatriated amid the conflict across the Gulf region, with 180 brought back in the last 24 hours.” The DG Shipping has so far facilitated the safe repatriation of over 1,599 Indian seafarers, including 180 brought back in the last 24 hours from various locations across the Gulf region,” Mangal said. He also confirmed that operations at all ports across India remain normal, with no reports of congestion, with State Maritime Boards across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry reporting smooth functioning. (ANI)
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FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2026 ECI bans all campaigning, opinion polls, and Allahabad High Court voter outreach during 48-hour silence period reserves order on plea against Rahul Gandhi’s “Indian state” remark Guwahati (Assam) [India], April 7 (ANI): The Election Commission of India on Monday announced that the Silent Period for the General Election to the Assam Legislative Assembly, 2026, will commence from 5:00 PM on April 7, 2026, marking 48 hours before the close of polling across all constituencies. As per Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, all forms of election campaigning will be strictly prohibited during this period. This includes public meetings, processions, rallies, and any campaign-re- The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- April 10, 2026 A Mother’s Love The Emu and the Komodo Dragon By Rajan George She slipped beyond the scrub and amber grass, The mother emu, silent in her care, To gather life for lives she left behind— Yet never far from them in watchful thought. Her chicks, like trembling whispers in the dust, Too frail for flight, too new to trust their legs, Lay huddled close beneath the fragile hush Of earth and instinct’s thin and trembling shield. For she had known the language of the wild— That danger breathes in shadows, still and slow, That unseen eyes may hunger in the brush Where innocence lies soft and unaware. And then it came—low, patient, cold as stone— A Komodo dragon, ancient, deliberate, Its tongue a flicker tasting tender fear, Its hunger coiled beneath a heavy tread. It saw not chicks, but fleeting, fragile flesh, A moment’s feast to crown the fading day; It crept as death might creep—unhurried, sure— Toward lives too small to reckon with its will. The chicks broke silence with a piercing cry, A fragile chorus cast against the wild— And through the wind, across the brittle plain, Their call found her, a spark to sudden flame. She turned—no longer gentle, soft, or still— But fierce as storm that tears the rooted earth; She raced the wind, her heart a thundered drum, To stand between her young and coming death. Two forms opposed—of feather and of scale, Of fleeting grace and ancient, brutal might— Yet something greater stirred within her breast: A force no fang nor savage strength could quell. She rose against the beast with reckless fire, With striking limbs and unrelenting will, Each blow a vow, each cry a shield of love That would not bend, nor falter, nor retreat. The dragon reeled beneath a power unknown— Not born of muscle, age, or sharpened tooth, But forged within the quiet depths of care: A mother’s love, unyielding, absolute. And so the hunter, humbled, turned away, Its conquest lost to something far more fierce; It fled to shadows, ancient pride undone, Its tail drawn low in silent, shamed retreat. For in that clash of hunger against love, The wild bore witness, ancient and aware: No force endures, no terror stands its ground Against the sacred fury of a mother’s care. lated activities. The Commission has also barred the dissemination of election-related content through electronic and social media platforms. Canvassing of votes through bulk SMS, phone calls, or online platforms will not be permitted.Additionally, political functionaries and party workers brought in from outside constituencies, who are not registered voters there, have been directed to leave immediately after the campaign period ends. The district and police administrations have been tasked with ensuring compliance to maintain a free and fair electoral environment.Further, under Section 126(1) (b) of the Act, the display of election-related content, including opinion polls or survey results, on electronic media such as television and similar platforms is strictly prohibited during the silence period. Chief Electoral Officer, Assam, Anurag Goel, has urged all candidates, political parties, and media organisations to adhere strictly to the guidelines. He warned that any violation will invite penal action under relevant legal provisions. Meanwhile, Union Minister JP Nadda on Monday said there is a strong “atmosphere in favour of the BJP” in Assam, asserting that the NDA is receiving widespread support ahead of the Assembly polls. Speaking to ANI in Tinsukia, Nadda said, “There is an atmosphere in favour of the Bharatiya Janata Party, in favour of the NDA. The NDA is receiving unanimous support from all sections of society. The work that Modi ji has done in Assam, the blessings he has bestowed upon Assam, and the way Himanta Biswa Sarma ji has implemented it at the grassroots level, are being welcomed by the people of Assam.”Assam will vote in a single phase on April 9, with counting of votes scheduled for May 4. INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 8 (ANI): The Allahabad High Court on Wednesday reserved its judgment on a plea challenging Rahul Gandhi‘s remarks made during the inauguration of the Congress party’s new headquarters, “Indira Bhawan,” in New Delhi. The single bench of Justice Vikram D. Chauhan reserved the order after hearing the completed arguments on the petition. The case pertains to a statement made by Rahul Gandhi on January 15, 2025, where he stated: “Our fight is with RSS, BJP as well as the Indian State.” The petition, filed by Simran Gupta, challenges a previous decision by the Chandausi court in Sambhal. On November 7, 2025, the Chandausi court had dismissed the petitioner’s plea against the Congress MP, labelling the case as weak. Petitioner Gupta moved the Allahabad High Court to challenge the order issued by the Additional District and Sessions Judge of the Chandausi court.Earlier on May 21, 2025, the District Judge Court of Sambhal issued notice to Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to either respond or appear on April 4 in connection with a complaint filed against him over his statement that “Our fight is not against BJP or RSS, but against the Indian state.” Speaking to ANI, Advocate Sachin Goyal said the court accepted the complaint and issued the notice to Gandhi, directing him to either appear in court on April 4 or submit a response.”Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had made a statement on 15 January 2025 that ‘We are now fighting the BJP, the RSS and the Indian State itself’. Simran Gupta had filed a case in the special MP/MLA court to register an FIR against Rahul Gandhi. The CJM had quashed it on the grounds of jurisdiction,” Advocate Goyal said. “We filed a revision petition against that order and the District Judge Court of Sambhal issued a summon to Rahul Gandhi to appear in court on April 4,” he added. On January 15, Rahul Gandhi, while inaugurating the party’s new headquarters ‘Indira Bhawan,’ hit out at the BJP and alleged that the Congress and other opposition parties were not just fighting the BJP but the Indian state itself.”Our ideology, like the RSS ideology, is thousands of years old, and it has been fighting the RSS ideology for thousands of years. Do not think that we are fighting a fair fight. There is no fairness in this. If you believe that we are fighting a political organisation called the BJP or RSS, you have not understood what is going on. The BJP and the RSS have captured every single institution of our country. We are now fighting the BJP, the RSS and the Indian State itself,” he said”We do not know whether our institutions are working or are non-functional. It is pretty clear what the media is up to. Even people know that the media is no longer free and fair,” he added. (ANI) Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” JESUS CHRIST
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FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2026 PM Modi says BJP-led NDA will win Kerala polls, accuses LDF, UDF spreading lies about FCRA and UCC Thiruvalla (Keralam) [India], April 5 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed confidence that BJP-led NDA will win Kerala polls and accused LDF and UDF of “lying” about FCRA Bill and Uniform Civil Code. Addressing a rally here, he noted that the law to provide 33% reservation for women in Lok Sabha and state assemblies was enacted during the rule of NDA-government and referred to the scheduled Parliament sitting on April 16,17,18 to pass amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Act. He said Congress people have been called for a meeting and hoped they “will listen” to the government.PM Modi referred to Kerala Files, Kashmir Files and Dhurandhar movies and said opposition parties had termed them lies. “The LDF and UDF people have become pro at lying. They said Kerala Files is a lie, they said Kashmir Files is a lie, they said Dhurandhar is a lie. These days, they are spreading lies about the FCRA and UCC. Goa has had UCC for decades, but they’re spreading lies around it. They also did the same around the CAA. They are in the business of spreading lies,” he alleged. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill 2026 was strongly opposed by the opposition parties. The government decided against pushing for its passage in the budget session of Parliament. PM Modi said that countdown of LDF government in the state has begun. “I have come here before as well, but this time the winds of change are blowing in a different direction. The biggest transformation is now about to take place in Keralam. Voting will be held on April 9, and on May 4, the end of decades of misgovernance will be declared. It is now certain that the countdown to the exit of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government has begun. For the first time, a BJP-NDA government is coming to power in Keralam,” he said. “Both the Left and Congress promote radical elements for the sake of vote banks; incidents like Munambam are becoming increasingly common in Kerala. There, hundreds of Hindu and Christian families were intimidated, but instead of helping the victims, the Kerala government appears to be standing with the radical forces… The patriotic people of Kerala will never allow this to succeed,” he added. He alleged that LDF and UDF governments have long neglected this region. “When LDF and UDF were in power at the Centre, Keralam received far less. Under the Modi government, five times more funds have been allocated to the state compared to that period,” he said.The PM accused the Congress of making “irresponsible” and “senseless” remarks regarding the West Asia crisis that could endanger the safety of millions of Indians working in the Gulf.”The Congress wants the West Asian countries to consider India as their enemy, that we should make some mistake here, give some statement like that, and trouble befalls Indians living in the Gulf countries, so the Congress is giving statements that anger the Gulf countries. The Congress wants panic to spread, and for it to get a chance to hurl abuses at Modi,” the Prime Minister said.Emphasising that the safety of Keralites remains his top priority, PM Modi said the elections will come and go.”I want to tell the people of Congress, LDF, and UDF that politics has its place and elections will come and go, but for me, the safety of the lakhs of Keralites there is the priority, and I am committed to that,” he said. Referring to the rescue operations involving Indian fishermen, the Prime Minister accused the The PM also lashed out at the LDF government over the Sabarimala temple gold theft case and accused them of “defaming and looting” the temple.”The LDF has not handed the probe to the CBI, raising serious questions. At the same time, Congress, which has largely stayed away from temple-related issues, is now faking, trying to project itself as pro-Hindu,” PM Modi said. He asserted that the NDA, once in power in Keralam, will punish the guilty and serve justice to the devotees of Swami Ayyappa.PM Modi also sought to allay any apprehension about reduction of seats in the southern states due to their good performance on the population yardstick and said “no seats will be reduced” and these will increase,which will benefit states across the country.He said the aim is to ensure 33% women’s representation in Parliament from 2029.” It is our government that has provided 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies… Parliament is going to reconvene in three days. The law we have passed, which gives 33 per cent reservation to women, should start benefiting from the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. There is a need to enact a law to ensure 33 per cent participation of women in Parliament,” he said. PM Modi appealed for passing the amendment to the women’s reservation bill by consensus.”Just as Parliament passed the women’s reservation bill by consensus, similarly, two tasks need to be done from April 1618. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, or other states that have done good work in population control–we want to firmly ensure in the law in Parliament this time that nowhere should the Lok Sabha seats be reduced… and second, the seats for women should increase as additional seats,” he said.”So that our southern states get this huge benefit, we are calling a session for law amendment. We have called the Congress people for a meeting, we hope they will listen to us… It is necessary that this amendment passes by consensus,” he added. Congress had said on Friday that sitting of Parliament to be held on April 16, 17 and 18 was a violation of the Model Code of Conduct and alleged that its purpose was to influence the outcome of the Assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, scheduled to be held later this month.The Congress also cautioned against any haste in amending the Constitution regarding the delimitation of parliamentary and assembly constituencies, saying it is a sensitive matter and can put several states at a significant disadvantage.Addressing rallies in Kerala, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi slammed PM Modi and alleged that the BJP leader wants to help LDF. “Forget that, Narendra Modi in every other speech mentions God, temples, and religion–every second speech of his. How somebody has insulted his God, temple, or religion. And the most valued temple in Kerala, the gold was stolen from that temple. Gold is stolen from Lord Aiyappa’s temple. It is replaced by brass. The Prime Minister comes to Kerala, doesn’t say a word about it. He has forgotten God, the temple, and religion because he wants to help the LDF and the Kerala CM. Truth is, that LDF can never challenge him in India. That is why the UDF is his target,” he said. Rahul Gandhi also spoke of United Democratic Front’s (UDF) commitment for safety of women. “The young woman who sang Vande Mataram at the public meeting, before such a large crowd and without fear, represents the women of Keralam – fearless and courageous. And that is why we want to ensure that every woman in Keralam is protected. This is why bus travel is going to be free for every woman after the UDF comes to power,” he said. He also alleged that BJP and RSS attacked Kerala’s nurses in Chhattisgarh and that Keralam has a Chief Minister who works alongside those who attacked nuns in Chhattisgarh. Keralam Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan hit back at the Congress leader. “Has Rahul Gandhi forgotten that the legal provisions used by BJP governments to unjustly arrest people, including nuns, were originally contributions of the Congress? During the 2022-23 Christmas and New Year period, when thousands of tribal Christians were driven out due to Sangh Parivar-backed violence, wasn’t there a Congress government in power there? Was Rahul Gandhi on leave from party leadership at that time?” he asked. Speaking at a convention held at Kannur Poduvacheri in Dharmadam constituency, Vijayan said that Kerala has reached a stage where it can reach a development leap. Kerala will go the polls on April 9 and votes will be counted on May 4. (ANI) New Delhi [India], April 5 (ANI): In a relief move for migrant workers, students and daily-wage earners, the government has allowed the sale of 5-kilogram Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders without requiring address proof. People can now get these cylinders from authorised distributors by showing only a valid ID card.Chandra Prakash, President of the All India LPG Distributors Federation, welcomed the decision and called it “a good gesture” for vulnerable sections.” FTL connections can be given to needy and migrant workers who are not able to avail a domestic new connection,” he said, adding that “migrant maids, daily-wage labourers, stu- dents, and professionals who lack a permanent address can now access cooking fuel without bureaucratic hurdles.” He said migrants who face difficulty in cooking for themselves or their families can visit the nearest LPG distributor with a valid ID and a self-declaration letter. The letter should state that they live in the area and will use the cylinder only for cooking purposes. The facility is also available for migrant students and professionals who do not have an existing LPG connection.Prakash made it clear that the scheme is only for household use. “These FTL cylinders are not meant for commercial customers,” he said. The response to the move has been strong. According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, more than 90,000 five-kilogram FTL cylinders were sold in a single day. Since March 23, 2026, around 6.6 lakh cylinders have been sold across the country. The Ministry has described the move as part of a broader effort to ensure the uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG across the country, particularly amid the evolving conflict in West Asia. The government has also urged citizens not to panic-buy or make unnecessary LPG bookings, and has advised the public to rely only on official sources for information. (ANI) No address proof needed for 5-kg LPG cylinders; Centre eases access for migrants, students
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