August 22, 2025 Friday India This Week 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng New s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tinent Pub li s h ed From th e U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 34 No. 34 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 01-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday August 22, 2025 Maharashtra: Six dead, five missing in floods; 293 rescued in Nanded Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 20 (ANI): Heavy rains and floods have killed six people in various districts of Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, while five people are missing in Nanded district, as per the Maharashtra Disaster Management Department. A total of 18 teams of NDRF are positioned in various parts of the state, along with six teams of SDRF. In Nanded’s Mukhed area, SDRF teams rescued 293 people. In the last 24 hours, one person has died in Beed, one person has died and three people have been injured in Mumbai, and four people have died and five are missing in Nanded. Mumbai experienced heavy rainfall over the past 21 hours, with some suburbs receiving more than 200 mm of rain. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Vikhroli recorded the highest rainfall at 223.5 mm, followed by Santacruz at 206.6 mm. Other areas such as Byculla, Juhu, Bandra, and Colaba also received significant rainfall ranging between 100 and 184 mm. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported that between 8:00 AM on August ambulance and allowed to go. Two patients were sent to Sion Hospital. According to information from Dr Mukesh, AMO, Sion Hospital, two individuals, Kismat Kumar, 20 years old, and Vivek Sonavane, 28 years old, were treated on an OPD basis and are currently stable. A Mumbai Monorail train broke down between Bhakti Park and Chembur stations near Mysore Colony on Tuesday evening, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded. The breakdown occurred due to a power supply failure caused by overcrowding, which exceeded the train’s designed capacity. (ANI) 19 and 6:00 AM on August 20, the eastern suburbs recorded 159.66 mm, while the western suburbs received 150.60 mm. Light rain was reported in all parts of the city between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM. Meanwhile, 582 passengers stuck in the Mumbai Monorail near Mysore Colony between Chembur and Bhakti Park were rescued by the Mumbai Fire Brigade of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Out of 582 rescued passengers, suffocation of 23 passengers was treated onsite by the onboard doctor of the 108 Introducing your new summer look. Ends September 2 Experience Amazing ©2025 Lexus, a Division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Monsoon Session: Govt to introduce Constitution Amendment Bill to remove CM, Ministers held on serious charges New Delhi [India], August 20 (ANI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah will introduce three bills in Lok Sabha on Wednesday - including the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, which seeks to remove a Central or State Minister who is facing allegations of corruption or serious offences and has been detained for at least 30 days. According to the List of Business in the Lok Sabha, Shah will introduce the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirtieth Amendment) Bill, 2025, to further amend the Constitution of India and the Govern- ment of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill, 2025, apart from the bill to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019. The Union Home Minister will further move to refer these Bills to a Joint Committee of the Houses consisting of 21 Members of the Lok Sabha to be nominated by the Speaker and 10 Members of the Rajya Sabha to be nominated by the Deputy Chairman. The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill 2025 seeks to amend section 54 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, to provide a legal framework for the removal of the Chief Minister or a Minister in case of arrest or detention in custody on account of serious criminal charges. It stated that a Minister facing allegations of serious criminal offences, who is arrested and detained in custody, may undermine the principles of constitutional morality and good governance, ultimately eroding the constitutional trust people have in him.However, there is no provision under Parliament see page 1
August 22, 2025 Friday India This Week H Mart Now Accepts NationsBenefits® Flex Card to Expand Food-as-Medicine Access believe culture begins at the table. Through our partnership with NationsBenefits, we are helping customers care for their health while staying connected to their identity and traditions. This collaboration marks a meaningful step toward real change for the communities we serve.” Michael Parker, Co-CEO of NationsBenefits, added: “At NationsBenefits, we know that culturally relevant foods are integral to both health outcomes and daily life. Our partnership with H Mart makes it easier for members to access the ingredients they trust, right in their own neighborhoods or delivered to their doorsteps— reinforcing preventive care and long-term well-being.” With this initiative, H Mart goes beyond being a grocery destination, strengthening its role as a trusted partner in supporting the health and well-being of its customers. The company remains committed to honoring the diverse Lyndhurst, NJ – H Mart, the largest Asian supermarket chain in the United States, is proud to announce a new partnership with NationsBenefits®, a leading provider of supplemental benefits and healthcare fintech solutions. Through this collaboration, eligible H Mart customers with participating health plans can now use their NationsBenefits® Flex Card at all H Mart locations to purchase fresh produce, specialty ingredients, and over-the-counter wellness items that align with their cultural food traditions. Powered by NationsBenefits’ real-time Basket Adjudication Service, this integration allows members to seamlessly redeem their supplemental benefits at checkout—making it easier to access the culturally familiar foods they value and trust. H Mart President, Brian Kwon, said: “At H Mart, we cultural backgrounds of its shoppers while continuing to deliver an inclusive and meaningful shopping experience. About H Mart H Mart is the largest international supermarket chain in America, originally recognized as a pioneer of Asian food in the U.S. Since opening its first store in 1982 in Woodside, Queens, H Mart has grown to more than 100 stores across 18 states, supported by five modern warehouse centers and processing facilities. As America’s premier food destination, H Mart offers an extensive assortment of Asian groceries alongside a wide range of everyday essentials, creating a full-scale shopping experience comparable to traditional supermarkets. Committed to freshness, value, and service, H Mart continues to serve diverse communities while maintaining the highest standards of customer satisfac- tion. About NationsBenefits NationsBenefits® is a leading provider of supplemental benefits and fintech solutions to the healthcare industry. Partnering with managed care organizations, NationsBenefits delivers innovative healthcare, data analytics, gap closure, and financial technology solutions designed to drive growth, reduce costs, and enhance member satisfaction. By combining advanced technology with targeted retailer partnerships, NationsBenefits enables health plans to provide impactful supplemental benefits that improve member experiences and health outcomes. Through its comprehensive suite of offerings, NationsBenefits works to simplify processes, expand access, and enhance quality of life for its members. To learn more, visit NationsBenefits.com. China Assures India to Address Needs of Fertilizers, Rare Earths, Tunnel Boring Machines: Sources New Delhi [India], August 19 (ANI): China has promised to address three of India’s key concerns—rare earths, fertilizers, and tunnel boring machines—according to sources. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi assured External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar that Beijing is working to meet these needs. Wang Yi arrived in India on Monday for a two-day visit. Earlier on Monday, Jaishankar noted in his opening remarks that talks would cover “economic and trade issues, pilgrimages, people-to-people contacts, river data sharing, border trade, connectivity, and bilateral exchanges.” He also followed up on concerns he had raised during his visit to China in July this year. Jaishankar underscored that as neighboring nations and major global economies, India and China share various facets and dimensions in their relationship. “It is also essential in this context that restrictive trade measures and roadblocks are avoided,” he said. The EAM further remarked, “Stable and constructive ties between India and China are not only to our benefit, but that of the world as well. This is best done by handling relations on the basis of mutual respect, mutual interest, and mutual sensitivity.” During his discussions with Wang Yi in New Delhi, Jaishankar emphasized that differences must not become disputes, nor competition turn into conflict. He added that the Chinese leader’s visit provides both countries an opportunity to review bilateral ties and exchange views on the global situation and other matters of mutual interest. Relations between India and China had deteriorated following the Chinese military’s actions along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh, which led to a standoff beginning in April–May 2020. Some easing of tensions followed disengagement agreements at certain friction points. Ahead of the 2024 BRICS Summit, India and China reached an agreement on patrolling arrangements along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, marking progress toward de-escalation. In recent months, both nations have taken steps to improve ties, with India stressing the importance of further measures to reduce tensions. Against the backdrop of geopolitical flux, ongoing efforts to resolve the Ukraine war, and tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, Jaishankar highlighted the imperative of enhancing stability in the global economy. Wang Yi’s visit comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected trip to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin from August 31 to September. (ANI)
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August 22, 2025 Friday India This Week Ministers, allies hail CP Radhakrishnan’s nomination as NDA’s Vice-Presidential candidate New Delhi [India], August 18 (ANI): Several Union Ministers, senior BJP leaders, and allies on Sunday congratulated Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan on being nominated as the NDA’s Vice-Presidential candidate, hailing his experience and service in public life. Union Minister Manohar Lal lauded the decision and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP Parliamentary Board. “Congratulations to Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan Ji, on being nominated as the NDA’s Vice-Presidential Candidate. His distinguished service as a parliamentarian and Governor has been marked by integrity, dedication & adherence to constitutional values. I am confident that his wisdom and vast experience will enrich the Rajya Sabha’s deliberations and further elevate the dignity of the Upper House. Gratitude to Hon’ble PM @narendramodi Ji and the members of the BJP Parliamentary board for this decision,” he wrote on X. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Arjun Ram Meghwal also extended his wishes, saying he was confident that Radhakrishnan’s “dedication, experience and diligent leadership” would strengthen democracy. “I am confident that your dedication, experience, diligent leadership, and commitment to continuously work in the interest of the nation will strengthen democracy and provide a new direction to the country,” he wrote in a post on X. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailed Radhakrishnan’s “profound administrative experience and commitment to uplifting the deprived sections of society,” saying it would “undoubtedly further strengthen Indian democracy.” “You have always set an exemplary standard of commitment and sensitivity through your work for the upliftment of the deprived sections of society. Your profound administrative experience and dedication to public service will un- doubtedly further strengthen Indian democracy. Your tenure as Vice President will bring new prestige to the dignity of the Upper House and constitutional values. Once again, best wishes,” Pradhan posted on X. Union MoS Sanjay Seth said the nomination was a matter of pride for Jharkhand, noting that Radhakrishnan had earlier served as the state’s Governor. “…Our President Droupadi Murmu was the Governor of Jharkhand, and today she is the President of the country. CP Radhakrishnan, who was also the Governor of Jharkhand, has been nominated for the post of Vice President. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given this honour to 3.5 crore people of Jharkhand. The people of Jharkhand are saluting the decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Seth told ANI. Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar also welcomed the move, calling it a “good step” by the Prime Minister. “He went from here (Jharkhand). Congratulations to him. The Prime Minister has taken a good step,” he said. Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh described Radhakrishnan’s nomination as a recognition of his exemplary service. “Heartiest congratulations to Shri C P Radhakrishnan ji, the distinguished Governor of Maharashtra, on his nomination as the NDA’s candidate for the Vice Presidential election. Your exemplary service as a Parliamentarian and Governor across multiple states re- flects an unwavering commitment to constitutional responsibilities. Your years of experience and wisdom will undoubtedly elevate the dignity of the Rajya Sabha and set new standards of excellence,” Singh wrote in a post on X. JD(U) MP Sanjay Jha said his party welcomed the decision, stressing that Radhakrishnan’s nomination reflected the NDA’s “commitment to inclusive development and social justice.” “It is a matter of joy that CP Radhakrishnan has been declared the NDA’s candidate for the post of Vice President. JD(U) welcomes this decision and wishes him all the best. He comes from a backward community and from South India, which reflects the NDA’s commitment to inclusive development and social justice…” he said. Other leaders, including Union MoS SP Singh Baghel, BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, BJP leader Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, and SP MP Awadhesh Prasad, also congratulated him. The NDA on Sunday named Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as its candidate for the Vice Presidential election. The announcement was made by BJP National President JP Nadda after the party’s Parliamentary Board meeting in New Delhi. The 67-year-old CP Radhakrishnan began his political journey through organisations such as the RSS and Jan Sangh before being elected to the Lok Sabha twice from Co- imbatore. Since then, he has used politics as a medium to serve the public. He has consistently shown a commitment towards national unity, social reform and public welfare, leading movements that addressed critical social and developmental challenges. His political life started earlier with him taking up student politics. Since then, he has used politics as a medium to serve the public, with over four decades of serving people as a karyakarta. He won his first election from Coimbatore in 1998 with a margin of 1,50,000+ votes. He later went on to serve as the Governor of Maharashtra. He initiated his political journey through the Jan Sangh at the age of 16 in 1974. In 1996, he became the secretary of the BJP in Tamil Nadu. He was elected as MP from the Coimbatore parliamentary constituency in 1998, in which he won by a margin of 1,50,000+ votes, and was re-elected in 1999 from the same constituency. In 2006, he was appointed as the state president of the BJP in Tamil Nadu, during which he actively raised social and developmental issues. From 2016 to 2020, he served as the chairman of the Coir Board, under whose leadership the coir export of India reached an all-time high. He also held the prestigious position of Governor for states like Jharkhand, Telangana, Maharashtra and Puducherry. He is regarded as eminent, knowledgeable and untainted by any legal accusations. He was born on 20 October 1957 in Tiruppur, Tiruppur district of Tamil Nadu. By profession, he is an agriculturist and industrialist. He completed his BBA from V.O.C. College, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu. In his over four decades of experience serving the masses, he has held multiple posts, including State Executive Committee Member, Bharatiya Jan Sangh (1974); Secretary, BJP, Tamil Nadu (1996), MP, Coimbatore Parliamentary Constituency (1998-1999); MP, Coim- batore Parliamentary Constituency (1999-2004); Part of parliamentary delegation to the UN (2004); State President, BJP, Tamil Nadu (2004-2007), Member of the first parliamentary delegation to Taiwan (2014); Chairman, All India Coir Board (2016-2020); State Incharge (Prabhari), Kerala (2020-2022); Governor, Jharkhand (2023-2024) and Governor, Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry (2024). With proven leadership across diverse roles, C.P. Radhakrishnan brings rich political and administrative experience. As chairman of the Coir Board, he transformed India’s coir sector, taking exports to a record Rs 2,532 crore. In his tenure as Governor of Jharkhand, he travelled across all 24 districts within four months, directly engaging with citizens and officials to strengthen governance at the grassroots. He has also made significant contributions in tuberculosis eradication in Jharkhand, Puducherry and Maharashtra. Rajnath Singh speaks to Kharge, seeks Opposition support for NDA’s VP candidate CP Radhakrishnan New Delhi [India], August 18 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday evening spoke to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge to seek support for the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA) Vice Presidential candidate CP Radhakrishnan, sources said. According to sources, the Vice Presidential election, scheduled for September 9, will be held under the supervision of Rajnath Singh on behalf of the NDA. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has been made the election agent, they added. The NDA on Sunday named Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan as its candidate for the Vice Presidential election. The announcement was made by BJP National President JP Nadda after the party’s Parliamentary Board meeting in New Delhi. BJP President Nadda said that the party would reach out to the Opposition to ensure a consensus and possibly an unopposed election. “We will talk to the opposition as well. We should also get their support so that together we can ensure an unopposed election for the post of Vice President. As we said earlier, we have been in touch with them, and our senior leaders have contacted them earlier as well and even now, we will remain in touch with them, and all our NDA colleagues have supported us. CP Radhakrishnan is our NDA’s candidate for Vice President,” Nadda said while addressing a conference here.
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India This Week August 22, 2025 Friday Monsoon Session: Govt to introduce Constitution Amendment Bill to remove CM, Ministers held on serious charges the offering, operation, facilitation, advertisement, promotion and participation in online money games through any computer resource, mobile device or the internet, particularly where such activities operate across State borders or from foreign jurisdiction. The bill seeks to protect individuals, especially youth and vulnerable populations, from the adverse social, Parliament from page 1 the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 (34 of 2019) for removal of the Chief Minister or a Minister who is arrested and detained in custody on account of serious criminal charges.”In view of the above, there is a need to amend section 54 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, for providing legal framework for removal of the Chief Minister or a Minister in such cases,” the statement said. Section (5A) is sought to be inserted in the bill. As per section (5A) a minister, who for any period of thirty consecutive days during holding the office as such, is arrested and detained in custody, on allegation of committing an offence under any law for the time being in force, which is punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years or more, shall be removed from his office, by the Lieutenant Governor on the advice of the Chief economic, psychological and privacy-related impacts of such games.It seeks to ensure responsible use of digital technologies and to maintain public order and protect public health. The bill seeks to safeguard the integrity of financial systems and the security and sovereignty of the State and establish a uniform, national-level legal framework in the public interest. (ANI) “Calling it anti-corruption measure a veil over eyes of people”: Priyanka Gandhi on bill for removing CMs, ministers Minister to be tendered by the thirty-first day, after being taken in such custody. The bill provides that if the advice of the Chief Minister for the removal of such Minister is not tendered to the Lieutenant Governor by the thirty-first day, he shall cease to be a Minister, with effect from the day falling thereafter. The amendment also provides that in case of the Chief Minister, who for any period of thirty consecutive days during holding the office The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- AUGUST 15, 2025 Blaming others for your crimes! Why do you scream when others cheat, And call them names for the same crimes you’ve perfected? Why do you believe you should have power To serve the people of your land? If you love the perks that come with power, How can you call yourself a servant of the people You are using politics to further your own ambition, Rather than serving with true devotion. How can your community progress If your eye is set on power, and you genuflect At the command of a donor who can sway you With a penny and impose his demands? Justice demands fair play in every role; Community requires honest players. When honesty is traded for wealth and power, Casting aspersions on others is unfair. There is none perfect; all make mistakes. But the danger lies in reveling in them, And repeating them, seduced by gain, Reaping the crimes one shamelessly commits. Blaming others for the same offenses Is just a mask to hide one’s evil deeds. When power is the only game, losing it Feels like death—life itself becomes worthless. By Rajan George as such, is arrested and detained in custody, on allegation of committing an offence under any law for the time being in force, which is punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years or more, shall tender his resignation by the thirty-first day after such arrest and detention, and if he does not tender his resignation, he shall cease to be the Chief Minister, with effect from the day falling thereafter. It also provides that nothing in this subsection shall prevent such Chief Minister or Minister from being subsequently appointed as the Chief Minister or a Minister, by the Lieutenant Governor, on his release from custody, as per sub-section (1).” As per the List of Business, Union Minister of Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will introduce the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025.It seeks to prohibit 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: Dr. Babu Stephen Chief Editor: Rajan George Contributing Editors: 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 New Delhi [India], August 20 (ANI): Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi on Wednesday took strong exception to the “draconian” and “undemocratic” Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill which aims to provide a framework for the removal of Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and ministers of state and union territories if they are arrested on serious criminal charges. The Congress leader said that the amendment being touted as an anti-corruption measure is just a “veil over the eyes of people,” claiming that a Chief Minister could be arrested on fabricated charges and be removed from their post after 30 days without a conviction if the bill is passed. “I see it as a completely draconian thing, as it goes against everything. To say it as an anti-corruption measure is just to pull a veil across the eyes of the people,” the Wayanad MP told reporters here.” Tomorrow, you can put any kind of a case on a CM, have him arrested for 30 days without conviction, and he ceases to be a CM. It is absolutely anti-constitutional, undemocratic and very unfortunate,” she added.Earlier today, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi also echoed similar sentiments. Calling the bill unconstitutional and claiming that the BJP wants to make the country a “police state.””This bill is unconstitutional. Who will arrest the Prime Minister?…All in all, the BJP government wants to make our country a police state through these bills. We will oppose them…The BJP is forgetting that power is not eternal,” Owaisi told reporters at Parliament premises. Communist Party of India (Marxist) MP Amra Ram said that if the amendment is passed then “everyone will be removed” from their post, alluding to the law being used to target opposition leaders in different states.”If this is based on the 30-day punishment, then everyone will be removed. 30-day sentence is not a big crime,” the CPM MP told ANI.Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Sudhakar Singh, while criticising the bill, said that the government does not have the right to punish the Prime Minister, Chief Ministers and Ministers. Sudhakar Singh told ANI, “Here, the government is saying that it will file a case and dismiss… If an FIR is filed, some people resign and some do not, but you do not have the right to punish them.” (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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August 22, 2025 Friday India This Week Opposition parties say EC did not reply to “vote theft” allegations in its presser; BJP hits back New Delhi [India], August 19 (ANI): Questioning the “partisan” role of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, the opposition parties on Monday said that the top poll body official has failed to answer even a single question raised by the INDIA bloc and other parties which have flagged concerns regarding “electoral manipulation”. They noted that during the press conference on Sunday, CEC Gyanesh Kumar acted more like a “spokesperson of the BJP” than as the head of a constitutional body. However, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Centre and its allies slammed the opposition parties while accusing them of “abusing” the Election Commission, which is a constitutional body. Addressing a press conference at the Constitution Club of India, the INDIA bloc leaders including Gaurav Gogoi, Dr Naseer Hussain, Mahua Moitra, Sanjay Singh, Arvind Sawant, Tiruchi Siva, Manoj Jha and John Brittas regretted that instead of addressing the grave concerns among the people about the fairness of the electoral process, the CEC had attacked the opposition. The INDIA leaders said the CEC gave no clarification or comment on the Supreme Court’s order of August 14, which rejected all arguments made by the Election Commission (EC) to prevent the release of basic data of the 65 lakh voters deleted in Bihar. The opposition leaders pointed out that the CEC offered no clarification or comment on the allegations of voter fraud in Mahadevapura made by Rahul Gandhi, except to reiterate his legally questionable demand for the data to be submitted via affidavit. “Furthermore, the CEC refused to answer any hard questions regarding why no inquiry or investigation had taken place into the allegations of voter fraud,” they added. The INDIA leaders said the ECI has completely failed in discharging its constitutional duty of ensuring a free and fair electoral process in the country. It has now become clear that the ECI is not being led by officers who can ensure a level playing field. On the contrary, they added that “those who lead the ECI divert and thwart any attempt at a meaningful inquiry into voter fraud and instead opt to intimidate those who challenge the ruling party.” Gaurav Gogoi said the CEC was unable to answer any questions, but was running away from its responsibility. He said, instead of answering the questions posed to the Election Commission of India, the CEC went on attacking the opposition. He pointed out that the CEC remained quiet on several issues, like how 70 lakh votes were added in Maharashtra within a span of 5 months, why the EC decided to delete CCTV footage within 45 days, how one lakh fake voters were added in the Mahadevapura Assembly segment and why Aadhaar card was not accepted as valid proof of identity. “It is clear that the ECI is under the command of partisan officials rather than non-partisan ones,” he said, while adding that this is why the Commission resists any inquiry into voter fraud. Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Ram Gopal Yadav disclosed that his party had complained to the Election Commission in 2022, along with 18,000 affidavits, stating that the votes of the SP supporters had been deleted. But, he added, nothing has happened so far. Referring to the CEC seeking an affidavit from Rahul Gandhi, he asked, What happened to the 18,000 affidavits submitted by the SP way back in 2022. Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra said that her party supremo, Mamata Banerjee, had raised the issue of duplicate EPIC cards way back in February, but nothing had happened till now. She said yesterday’s press conference was a shameful display of puppetry by the CEC. She told him that he should leave the job of attacking the opposition to his political masters. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha said that there was a complete erosion of faith in the ECI. He also said that the CEC deliberately chose to address a press conference on Sunday just to try to divert attention from the Voter Adhikar Yatra, which began around the same time yesterday in Bihar. DMK MP Tiruchi N Siva said that ECI was empowered to prevent any interference. He said the ECI has come under the scanner. Referring to yesterday’s press conference, he said, instead of clarification, it had only raised many more questions. Arvind Sawant of the Shiv Sena (UBT) alleged that during the press conference, the CEC was behaving like the spokesperson of the BJP. He said the CEC had no answers as to how 70 lakh votes were added within a span of 5 months in Maharashtra. Communist Party of India (Marxist) MP John Brittas said that the CEC has forfeited his right to hold that position. He noted that he had declared war on opposition parties. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh said that there was no logic in what the CEC said during the press conference, and it was devoid of any facts. He also asked, “How was it possible that while 65 lakh votes were deleted in the SIR exercise in Bihar, not a single new voter was added?” He said, similarly, the ECI had deleted 42,000 votes in the New Delhi con- stituency before the Delhi assembly elections. As this happened, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the centre and its allies slammed the opposition parties while accusing them of “abusing” the Election Commission, which is a constitutional body. Rijiju earlier in the day slammed Congress for “abusing” the constitutional bodies, including the EC and the Supreme Court. He said that Congress “abuses” the EC when they lose elections. “The Election Commission of India is a constitutional body, and who will answer on their behalf in the parliament? Congress should keep its concerns in front of the Election Commission of India. If the Election Commission of India has asked for some documents from the Congress party, it is their responsibility to answer them,” the Union Minister said. “They abuse the Election Commission of India, the Supreme Court, and constitutional bodies. When they lose, they abuse the Election Commission of India. Congress will never come to power again as they abuse the public,” he added. Responding to charges of “vote theft” against EC, Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi said that the opposition was discussing “unconstitutional” matters. “Is vote theft a constitutional matter? They (the opposition) are talking about unconstitutional things. This is a process, and through it, all this is happening, so what is wrong with it? If they consider it wrong, then they are thinking about unconstitutional things,” he added. BJP MP Manan Kumar Mishra further accused the opposition of “wasting time” and said that abusing the constitutional bodies was their habit. “The opposition only wants to waste time. Abusing the constitutional bodies has become their habit. Their only intention is to abuse the constitutional bodies and want to create a situation like Bangladesh,” Mishra told ANI. The opposition has been demanding a parliamentary discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar and on the allegation of vote theft. However, the government remain adamant that the issue will not be taken up in the parliament for debate since it was a matter between EC and Congress. (ANI) ECI refused to answer any of questions raised by Rahul Gandhi: Randeep Surjewala New Delhi [India], August 17 (ANI): Congress leader Randeep Surjewala on Sunday said that the Election Commission of India in its media interaction held earlier today refused to address any of the concerns raised by LoP Rahul Gandhi over “electoral manipulation”. In a post on X, Surjewala said, “The most notable thing to come out of today’s press conference is that the ECI refused to answer any of the questions raised by the Congress Party and Shri. Rahul Gandhi.” “The bigger question is, why is the ECI so petrified of sharing machine-readable lists post the results?” he asked. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Sunday refuted all the recent “vote theft” claims made by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on the Election Commission of India (ECI) while addressing a press conference in the national capital.He termed allegations of bias by the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabhas an “insult” to the Constitution of India. CEC also asked Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to either furnish a signed affidavit or apologise to the nation for his remarks.” An affidavit will have to be given or an apology should be made to the country. Teesra koi vikalp nahi (There is no third option.) If the affidavit is not received within seven days, it means that all these allegations are baseless.” CEC Gyanesh Kumar said while addressing mediapersons.Rahul Gandhi, who is the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, hit back at the CEC Gyanesh Kumar, alleg- ing that the ECI is asking for an affidavit from him but doesn’t from BJP MP Anurag Thakur when he makes the same allegations. “The Election Commission asks for an affidavit from me. But when Anurag Thakur says the same thing that I am saying, it does not ask for an affidavit from him,” Rahul Gandhi said.Rahul Gandhi had on August 7 addressed a press conference in New Delhi, in which he presented Congress’s research on voting in the Mahadevapura Assembly in Karnataka, a part of the Bangalore Central parliamentary constituency. Gandhi alleged “vote chori” (vote theft) of 1,00,250 votes, including duplicate voters, invalid addresses, and bulk registrations of votes at single locations. (ANI)
August 22, 2025 Friday 9 INDIA bloc picks B Sudershan Reddy as candidate for Vice Presidential elections; to face NDA’s CP Radhakrishnan New Delhi [India], August 19 (ANI): The INDIA bloc on Tuesday picked former Supreme Court Judge, Justice B Sudershan Reddy as its candidate for the upcoming Vice Presidential elections slated to take place on September 9. The announcement was made by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in the national capital following the INDIA bloc meeting. B Sudershan Reddy will file his nomination for the Vice Presidential polls on August 21. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said, “He will file nomination on August 21. Tomorrow, all opposition parties’ MPs are meeting in the central hall at 1 o’clock.” TMC MP Derek O’Brien said, “All opposition parties, including the Aam Aadmi Party, are on board.” Kharge called the Vice Presidential fight an ideological battle and thanked the united opposition for standing behind Justice Reddy’s candidature. “This vice-pres- idential contest is an ideological battle, and all the opposition parties agreed on this, and this is the reason we have nominated B Sudershan Reddy as the joint candidate,” Kharge told reporters. Congress chief Kharge hailed Justice Reddy terming him among the “most distinguished and progressive jurists” in the country. He considered Justice Reddy a consistent and courageous champion of social, economic and political justice. “B. Sudershan Reddy is one of India’s most distinguished and progressive jurists. He has had a long and eminent legal career, including as judge of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, Chief Justice of Guwahati High Court and Judge of the Supreme Court. He has been a consistent and courageous champion of social, economic and political justice. He is a poor man and many judgments if you read, will know that how he favoured the poor people and also protected the Constitution and fundamental rights,” Kharge said. Justice B Sudershan Reddy was born on July 8, 1946 and was enrolled as an advocate in Hyderabad with the Bar Council of Andhra Pradesh on December 27, 1971. Justice Reddy has practised in Writ and Civil matters in the High Court of Andhra Pradesh and worked as the Government Pleader in the High Court during 198890. He also worked as Additional Standing Counsel for the Central Government for 6 months in 1990. He worked as Legal Adviser and Standing Counsel for Osmania University. He was appointed as a permanent Judge of the Andhra Pradesh High Court on May 2, 1995. Justice was later appointed as the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court on December 5, 2005. He was later appointed as the Judge of the Supreme Court of India on January 12, 2007. Justice Reddy retired on July 8, 2011. B Sudershan Reddy will be contesting against National Democrat- ic Alliance candidate CP Radhakrishnan. The Election Commission had earlier announced that polling for the Vice Presidential election would take place on September 9, with counting of votes scheduled for the same day. The last date for filing nominations is August 21, while candidates can withdraw their nominations until August 25. The Vice Presidential post fell vacant after Jagdeep Dhankhar resigned “Healthy India-China Relationship Serves Long-Term Interests of Both Countries,” Says Chinese FM Wang Yi New Delhi [India], August 19 (ANI): Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday expressed optimism about India-China ties, stressing that a stable and healthy relationship serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both nations. Wang, who met National Security Advisor Ajit Doval during the 24th round of Special Representative-level talks in New Delhi, said that China attaches great importance to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin. “The Chinese side attaches great importance to the Prime Minister’s visit to China to attend the SCO Summit at our invitation. We believe the Indian side will also make its contribution to a successful summit in Tianjin,” Wang said. He emphasized the need to build consen- sus and set specific goals for ongoing boundary consultations. “I am ready to work with you to build more consensus, identify the direction and goals of the boundary consultations, and create conditions for the improvement and growth of our bilateral relations,” he added. Wang highlighted that both sides should follow the strategic guidance of their leaders, enhance mutual trust through communication, and expand common interests through exchanges and cooperation. Reflecting on progress since Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping met in Kazan last year, Wang said their discussions “pointed the direction for the development of bilateral relations and provided impetus for the proper settlement of the boundary question.” He also praised the outcome of the 23rd round of talks, noting that the two sides had “reached on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament on July 21, citing health reasons. The VP is elected by an electoral college, which consists of MPs from both houses of Parliament. The elections of the Vice President are governed by the provisions under Articles 64 and 68 of the Constitution. The Election Commission notifies the VP polls by the Presidential and Vice-Presidential Elections Act, 1952. As per Article 66(1) of the Constitution of India, the election of the Vice President shall be held by the system of proportional representation by means of single transferable vote, and the voting at such election shall be by secret ballot. (ANI) Sudershan Reddy appeals to MPs to support his candidature for Vice Presidential elections new and important consensus on managing disagreements, stabilizing the borders, and moving toward a settlement.” Expressing satisfaction with the restoration of stability on the borders, Wang commended NSA Doval’s role. “Mr. Doval, I appreciate the effort you made as Special Representative of the Indian side. Now, the bilateral relationship is facing an important opportunity for improvement and growth,” he said. Doval, in his opening remarks, said that Prime Minister Modi would be visiting China shortly for the SCO Summit. He noted the upward momentum in ties, highlighting the peace and tranquility along the borders and the leadership role played by both nations in boosting bilateral engagement since their meeting in Kazan last year. According to sources, China has also promised to address India’s key concerns related to rare earths, fertilizers, and tunnel-boring machines. Wang Yi arrived in India on Monday for a two-day visit and held talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar before meeting NSA Doval. (ANI) Retired Supreme Court judge B Sudershan Reddy on Tuesday expressed gratitude towards the INDIA bloc for nominating him as the joint Opposition candidate for the Vice Presidential election and appealed to all Members of Parliament to support his candidature.” Thank you for projecting me as a candidate on behalf of the INDIA Alliance. But for (sic) you, it would not have been possible…As a candidate, I would humbly request and appeal to all the Parliamentarians to support my candidature,” Reddy told reporters here.”I am very, very happy. Thank you,” he added. When asked about him and his competition being from southern India, Reddy said that “south, north, east, west” doesn’t matter since both – him and Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan – were Indian nationals. “It is the Parliamentarians who elect the Vice President. Political parties may sponsor the candidates. There is only one citizenship in this country. CP Radhakrishnan and I are Indian nationals. Whether it is South, North, East, or West, nothing matters,” Reddy said. The retired judge, who arrived in Delhi earlier in the day, was welcomed by the INDIA bloc MPs. The INDIA bloc announced retired Supreme Court judge B Sudershan Reddy as its Vice Presidential candidate earlier in the day, terming the election an “ideological fight” against the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The opposition leaders said their choice of candidate is meant to defend constitutional values. The announcement also received backing from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Earlier in the day, Kharge said Reddy would file his nomination on August 21. `Reddy, who served as Chief Justice of the Guwahati High Court before being elevated to the Supreme Court in 2007, retired in July 2011. He will contest against the NDA nominee CP Radhakrishnan.The Vice-Presidential election is scheduled for September 9, with counting on the same day. (ANI)
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