Row Over Electoral Rolls Intensifies as BJP Defends SIR While Congress Alleges Voter DeletionsThe political confrontation between the ruling party and the opposition over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise has intensified following allegations regarding large-scale voter deletions from electoral rolls. Union Home Minister Amit Shah defended the roll cleanup during an address in Telangana, asserting that three crore non-existent entries and infiltrators were eliminated to preserve the integrity of elections, while claiming the opposition opposed the process for vote bank politics.
In contrast, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi cited the deletion of over 13 crore names following the 2024 general election, characterising it as significant disenfranchisement and alleging electoral irregularities. Meanwhile, senior leaders from both sides debated the issue, with the ruling establishment disputing claims of voter theft and pointing to legitimate roll revisions, duplicate entries, and shifted voters, even as the opposition continues to seek explanations regarding the criteria and verification mechanisms behind the massive roll updates.Delhi AQI Enters Very Poor Category, GRAP 2 Curbs Imposed, SC Nod For Green CrackersAir quality across Delhi NCR has deteriorated into the very poor category, with the overall AQI reaching 331 and several areas breaching the 400 severe mark.
In response, CAQM enforced GRAP Stage 2 measures across the region, which mandate higher vehicle parking charges, strict curbs on diesel generator sets, intensified mechanical sweeping, and 20 additional daily Delhi Metro trips to promote public transport. Meanwhile, Gurugram authorities announced strict pollution control curbs between 5 and 20 November, including a ban on construction activities and 50 percent mandatory work-from-home rules for staff.
In addition, the Supreme Court permitted green crackers during Diwali for restricted time slots across Delhi NCR.US Midterms: High Stakes For Donald Trump, Inflation Concerns And Impact On India ExplainedAmerica heads into crucial midterm elections with all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 Senate seats up for grabs, posing a critical test for Donald Trump's legislative agenda. Rising prices, inflation, fuel costs, and federal tariffs have emerged as the foremost concerns among voters across states like Maryland and Virginia.
Political leaders and candidates note that rising everyday costs, driven by international conflicts and federal policies, have put intense pressure on household budgets. Polling trends suggest Democratic momentum in the race for congressional control, though early voting patterns remain mixed.
The outcome of the elections carries significant ramifications internationally, particularly for India. A potential shift in congressional control could intensify scrutiny over tariff measures, alter debates on trade and immigration policies such as H-1B visas, and introduce stronger legislative oversight over executive actions in Washington.Cyclone Murzu Alert: Over 19 Flights Cancelled Across Andhra, Trains SuspendedOperations across Andhra Pradesh have faced major disruptions as Cyclone Murzu approaches the coastline, bringing strong winds forecast to reach up to 120 kilometres per hour.
At least 19 domestic flights, including Indigo and Air India Express services, were cancelled across Vijayawada, Tirupati, and Visakhapatnam airports. Rail services across affected coastal stretches have also been suspended as a precautionary step.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu is monitoring the ground situation and has sought assistance and additional manpower from neighbouring states, including Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Karnataka, to aid in post-landfall restoration work over the next 24 to 48 hours. Vulnerable coastal districts including Nellore, Ongole, and Bapatla remain on high alert with standard operating procedures activated.
Authorities and emergency response machinery are focused on minimising losses to life and infrastructure, advising residents in low-lying areas to stay indoors and adhere to government safety guidelines.