Month: April 2026

Congress leader and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar questioned the development record of the CPI(M)-led LDF government in Keralam, alleging a lack of progress even in Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s home district.

Addressing a press conference here, Shivakumar said, “What has the LDF government given to Kerala in terms of development? Kannur is the district of the CM. I spoke to a lot of workers there. I asked if any tourism and investment opportunities have come to the state. They told me nothing has been done for this district. I realised that when the CM’s own district has not been developed.”

He alleged that the absence of investment and infrastructure growth reflects the government’s overall performance, as the state gears up for Assembly elections.

Meanwhile, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi raised concerns over rising unemployment among educated youth in the state. Addressing a gathering in Peravoor, she said, “I see very closely the problems and struggles that you face. The people I come across are well-educated. When I meet young people in Keralam who are well educated, very often they do not have jobs, and if they do, those jobs are outside the state.”

She added that despite significant investment in education by families, employment opportunities within Keralam remain limited, forcing migration.

Polling for the 2026 Keralam Legislative Assembly elections is scheduled for April 9, with counting set for May 4, according to the Election Commission of India. The tenure of the current Assembly ends on May 23.

Keralam has been governed by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) for the past decade. In the 2021 Assembly elections, the LDF retained power with 99 seats, marking the first time since 1977 that an incumbent government was re-elected. The United Democratic Front (UDF) secured 41 seats, while the NDA failed to win any seats. (ANI)

The UAE on Monday expressed its support to Bahrain in urging the Security Council to take action on the Strait of Hormuz.

Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized that this is no longer a regional issue–it is a direct threat to global stability.

In a post on X, the UAE Mission to the UN said, “The UAE joins Bahrain in urging Security Council action on the Strait of Hormuz. As H.E. Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasizes, this is no longer a regional issue–it is a direct threat to global stability, food and energy security, and international law. Each day without action brings the world closer to a broader crisis, with Global South countries facing the gravest consequences. We thank Bahrain for its leadership on the Security Council and for its diplomatic efforts in bringing this resolution forward.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bahrain said in a post on X, “Foreign Minister: Strait of Hormuz crisis requires urgent international action to avoid serious humanitarian and economic repercussions.”

The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to vote on Friday (local time) on a draft resolution proposed by Bahrain that seeks to authorise member states to use “all defensive means necessary” to ensure safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz amid the conflict in West Asia, CNN reported.

The proposal comes amid rising tensions over maritime security amid the conflict in West Asia, which has seen severe disruption in energy trade due to the virtual blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy trade.

Bahrain, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Security Council and has been under fire from Iran amid the conflict, urged an international response to threats against global navigation routes.

“The Kingdom of Bahrain submitted a draft resolution to your esteemed council on Iran’s unlawful and unjustified attempt to control international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, placing before the council a draft that requires a decisive response to such actions that are irresponsible and illegitimate. Actions that threaten the interests of nations and peoples around the world,” said Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, the Foreign Minister of Bahrain, during his remarks at the UNSC meeting on Thursday (local time). (ANI)

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday alleged that material used in recent press conferences by Congress leaders Pawan Khera and Gaurav Gogoi had links to a Pakistani social media group, intensifying the political slugfest ahead of Assembly elections in the state.

Addressing a press conference here, Sarma said, “Yesterday, Pawan Khera and Gaurav Gogoi did two press conferences, one in Delhi, one in Guwahati… During our research, we found that the entire material of the press conference, which took place yesterday, was supplied by a Pakistani social media group.”

He further claimed increased interest from Pakistan in Assam’s upcoming elections and in supporting Congress.

“In the last 10 days, Pakistan channels have done at least 11 talk shows regarding the election in Assam, which never happened earlier. And in every talk show, the conclusion is that Congress should win. Pakistan’s link to yesterday’s press conference has also now become very, very apparent,” the Chief Minister said.

Sarma added, “I am sure that this will be taken into consideration by the law enforcement agency.”

The Chief Minister also warned of legal consequences, alleging that the Opposition leaders used “fraudulent documents” to influence public opinion.

“Normally, when you raise a certain issue before the public with fraudulent documents, it attracts 420 and 468 of the IPC. Of course, there is a correspondence provision in new BNS. When you use these allegations with fabricated documents to influence a result or outcome of an election, then it attracts higher penalty provisions, and the punishment for that is life imprisonment,” Sarma said.

He further informed that a police complaint had already been initiated by her wife Riniki Bhuyan Sharma. “Yesterday, my wife filed an FIR, and I am sure that the police will register the case in the appropriate section of law and take necessary action,” he added.

The controversy stems from allegations made by Khera, who claimed that Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, holds multiple passports and has undisclosed business interests abroad. He also alleged the existence of properties in Dubai and companies in the United States linked to the Chief Minister’s family.

Responding to these claims earlier, Sarma had categorically denied the allegations, stating that one of the passports cited was “fake” and flagged discrepancies in the documents. He said confirmations from Dubai authorities and the Indian government indicated that the passport in question was not genuine.

Khera, however, has maintained that more evidence will be presented to support his claims and has questioned whether Sarma had disclosed all assets in his election affidavit. Meanwhile, Gogoi has also demanded a probe into the allegations, escalating the political confrontation.

The allegations come as Assam is all set to go into single-phase Assembly elections on April 9, with 126 constituencies across the state. The counting of votes will take place on May 4. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) workers for their tireless efforts over more than four decades, emphasising that the party’s journey is a testament to public service and dedication to good governance.

On the occasion of the BJP’s 47th Foundation Day, PM Modi extended warm greetings to party workers across the nation and highlighted their unwavering commitment, devotion and passion towards serving society.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, “Warm greetings to all BJP Karyakartas across the nation on the party’s Sthapana Diwas. Our Party has always been at the forefront of serving society, guided by the principle of India First. Our Karyakartas are known for their selfless service, unwavering dedication and a deep passion towards good governance.”

“They have worked tirelessly at the grassroots, ensuring maximum people are connected to our ideology and work. We also remember the countless workers whose dedication, sacrifice and perseverance have shaped the party’s growth over decades,” he further added.

The Prime Minister further stressed that the BJP aims to take India towards the dream of “Viksit Bharat” while keeping the interests and well-being of people at the centre of its vision.

“The BJP stands as a party that places the well-being of people at the centre of its vision. This is reflected in our work at the Centre and in various states. BJP remains committed to building a Viksit Bharat. May our collective resolve continue to drive this vision forward and take India to new heights of progress and prosperity,” he wrote in his post.

Earlier in the day, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended greetings to party workers on the BJP’s foundation day, reiterating the party’s core mantra of “Nation First, Party Next, Self Last.”

In a post on X, Shah highlighted the BJP’s efforts in securing India’s borders, strengthening internal security, setting development benchmarks and reviving the country’s historical and cultural essence.

“Whether it is about securing the country’s borders, strengthening internal security, setting new benchmarks for development, or rekindling the historical essence and vital spirit of Indian culture–the BJP has exemplified all these resolutions through action. The BJP’s core mantra has always been clear – ‘Nation First, Party Next, Self Last’. With this very foundational spirit, every BJP worker is dedicated day and night to the service of the nation,” Shah wrote on X.

The Bharatiya Janata Party traces its origin to the Jana Sangh, which merged with the Janata Party after the Emergency in 1977 with the aim of defeating the Congress. Later, questions of dual membership arose between RSS members and the Jana Sangh, with the ask that either the Jana Sangh members should leave the Janata Party or their membership of RSS. The issue led to the Jana Sangh members leaving the Janata Party and officially founding the BJP on April 6, 1980.

Since its formation, the BJP has produced two Prime Ministers, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi. (ANI)

The thought of a “lazy” day does not sit well with megastar Amitabh Bachchan. The veteran actor, recently shared that not working daily brings a sense of “disturbing” unease to his routine.

Big B, 83, who has spent over six decades in cinema, spoke about how discipline and daily work remain a big part of his life even today. In a post on his personal blog, the actor opened up about how a break from routine feels “off” and “unsettling.”

“A day that spelt ‘lazy’… no reason whatsoever… just it seems disturbing to not be working each day… and when you do not work each day according to a schedule… the entire process of habit forming that pre seeded… the day suddenly becomes a mystery of deeds, which normally would have worked in perfect unison,” he wrote.

“And you wonder , why the day is not behaving the way you normally wish it to be. So if there is some understanding of this element within us , then ‘may there be peace and calm around us’ ..but for some it never happens .. and that is an added anxiety ..living in anxiety , they say, is harmful for the mind and body ..and leading an anxious day , on the weakness of this phenomena is un required,” he added.

Bachchan recently wrapped up hosting the 17th season of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati.’

On the film front, he was last seen in ‘Kalki 2898 AD,’ directed by Nag Ashwin. The film, which also stars Prabhas, Deepika Padukone and Kamal Haasan, performed strongly at the box office. (ANI)

Sara Ali Khan gave fans a look at how the Pataudi family celebrated Easter this year as she shared snippets from their get-together.

On Sunday, the ‘Simmba’ actor took to her Instagram account to share a series of pictures from the Easter celebrations. The pictures showed members of the Pataudi family coming together to mark the occasion.

In one of the pictures, Saif Ali Khan, Sara, Ibrahim Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Soha Ali Khan, Saba Ali Khan and veteran actor Sharmila Tagore were seen posing together. Another picture featured Bebo and Saif with Sara and Ibrahim. A third picture captured the siblings posing alongside their grandmother, Sharmila Tagore.

Along with the pictures, Sara wrote a caption that read, “Happy Sunday & Happy Easter. Any guesses on who’s the biggest feaster?”

On the work front, Sara was last seen in ‘Metro In Dino’ (2025). She will next be seen in ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh Do’ alongside Ayushmann Khurrana. The film is directed by Mudassar Aziz and is expected to be released on May 15, 2026. Reports also suggest that Wamiqa Gabbi may be seen in a key role.

The first ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’ hit theatres in 2019, starring Kartik Aaryan, Bhumi Pednekar, and Ananya Panday. It was a modern remake of the 1978 film of the same name and also featured Ayushmann Khurrana’s brother, Aparshakti Khurrana, in a supporting role. (ANI)

Anurag Kashyap’s cult classic film Dev D is set to re-release in theatres on April 24. It starred Abhay Deol and Kalki Koechlin in the lead roles.

Taking to their Instagram, PVR Inox shared the announcement of the film’s re-release. The film was originally released in 2009. The movie will re-release in PVR Inox nationwide on April 24.

“A cult classic that redefined romance and heartbreak! Experience Dev.D on the big screen once again, as every emotion hits harder and every moment feels unforgettable. DevD re-releasing at PVR INOX on April 24!” wrote PVR Inox.

The film revolves around the characters of Abhay Deol, Mahie Gill and Kalki Koechlin who faces problems of their own. Dev (Abhay), who after spurning Paro’s love due to a misunderstanding, turns to drugs and vodka for solace.

Paro (Mahie Gill) moves on but Dev is still in remorse. Dev then meets Chanda (Kalki Koechlin), a prostitute with problems of her own. Dev likes her, but a few restrictions and problems resist them to get togather.

The music of the film is composed by Amit Trivedi.

The trend of movie’s re-release has been in continuation since couple of years. Recently, actor Kartik Aaryan’s beloved rom-com ‘Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety’ returned to cinemas, bringing back memories for movie lovers.

The popular film, which hit theatres in 2018 and became a major hit, was re-released in theatres on March 6, 2026. The makers have confirmed the news, much to the excitement of fans.

Directed by Luv Ranjan and produced by Luv Films and T-Series Films, the film also starred Nushrratt Bharuccha and Sunny Singh in key roles. The story depicted the clash between friendship and love in a light-hearted yet emotional way. (ANI)

The makers of Prabhas upcoming film ‘Fauzi’ has issued a strict warning against the alleged leaked images from the sets of the film. They have urged people to “refrain from sharing or engaging with leaked content.”

Taking to their X handle, Fauzi makers have highlighted the alleged leaks from the sets of the movie. While issuing the warning, the makers have stated to take “necessary actions” against the involved parties.

“It has come to our attention that certain accounts are circulating leaked images from the sets of #Fauzi. Please treat this as a strict warning – any such content will be reported, and necessary action will be taken against those involved. These leaks compromise the experience we are carefully building. What’s coming on the big screen will be far bigger and worth the wait. We urge everyone to refrain from sharing or engaging with leaked content,” wrote Fauzi on their X handle.

The film’s director Hanu Raghavapudi also requested fans not to share leaks, urging everyone to preserve the film’s magic and experience it as intended in theatres.

“We’ve poured our hearts into #Fauzi to give you something truly special. Humbly requesting everyone, please don’t spoil the magic with leaks. Let’s experience it the way it’s meant to be… together in theatres,” wrote Hanu Raghavapudi on his X handle.

On the occasion of ‘Baahubali’ actor’s birthday, the makers treated the fans with the announcement of Prabhas’s new film titled ‘Fauzi’. The makers also shared an intriguing poster of Prabhas’ character.

“#Prabhas Hanu is #FAUZI — The bravest tale of a soldier from the hidden chapters of our history. Happy Birthday, Rebel Star #Prabhas (sic),” the post read.

Hanu Raghavapudi also expressed excitement about his collaboration with the ‘Baahubali’ star.”Happy Birthday to our dearest #Prabhas garu . Taking pride in presenting you as #FAUZI, this journey so far has been unforgettable and only promises to get bigger from here! FAUZI – The bravest tale of a soldier from the hidden chapters of our history,’ he posted.

Anupam Kher also plays a prominent role in the film. The release date of the film has not been announced yet. (ANI)

The representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India, Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, on Sunday slammed the recent remark made by US President Donald Trump, threatening Tehran to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz or face severe consequences, asserting that such statements are not new and hold little impact on the Islamic Reoublic.

Speaking to ANI, Ilahi said that the United States has repeatedly issued similar threats over the years but has failed to act decisively against Iran.

He further emphasised Iran’s institutional strength, stating that the country operates under a strong constitutional framework and governance system that has withstood external pressure for decades.

“It is not anything new. For a long time, they have been issuing such statements, and Iran is a constitutional government. It has all these roles and the constitution and is very strong. They couldn’t do anything to us for 47 years. They can’t do anything else,” he said.

His remark came after Trump, earlier today, issued a strong warning to Iran, urging the Islamic Republic to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz as the conflict in West Asia escalates, while threatening severe consequences if it fails to do so.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump used unusually harsh language to convey his message, reminding Tehran of his deadline to ‘make a deal’ or to ‘open the Strait’, noting that Tuesday will be the day when Washington will wrap up all of Iran’s energy and civil infrastructure.

“Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!! Open the F****n’ Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell – JUST WATCH! Praise be to Allah,” he stated in his post.

Meanwhile, responding to Trump’s claim that the US had ‘won the war’ against Iran, Ilahi dismissed the assertion, suggesting that developments on the ground tell a different story.

“We can answer this in battle and on the streets. They wanted to do something within three days, but now it has been more than a month,” the representative added. (ANI)

As the tourist season begins, Ladakh is set to welcome a larger number of visitors with a significant boost in air connectivity, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said on Sunday.

Ladakh is all set to welcome a larger number of visitors than before. Pleased to announce a major boost to air connectivity with Leh, as the tourist season begins in Ladakh, LG Vinai Kumar Saxena posted on X.

Highlighting the improved infrastructure, the LG announced that flight operations at Leh Airport have increased from 8 to 18 flights per day as of April 2, enhancing connectivity with major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Srinagar and Chandigarh.

He further stated that two additional flights are expected to commence operations soon, offering greater flexibility for travellers planning their visit to the region.

The increase in flight operations is expected to significantly boost tourist footfall, strengthen Ladakh’s tourism sector, and generate local employment opportunities. The administration aims to position Ladakh as a convenient and sought-after tourist destination.

The Lieutenant Governor also encouraged tourists to visit Ladakh this season for an unforgettable experience.

On March 26, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena inspected key water conservation and land development projects at Stok village and Chuchot Thongser, reaffirming the Administration’s commitment to addressing water scarcity and promoting sustainable development in the region.

The Lieutenant Governor’s visits are part of the plans to construct around 50 reservoirs or water bodies across various villages in Ladakh, along with the restoration of existing water bodies, to mitigate water woes in these villages.

Saxena, immediately after taking over as Lieutenant Governor of UT Ladakh on March 13, had directed the Chief Secretary to identify at least 50 locations to create small water bodies that would store snowmelt to address the water requirements of locals. (ANI)