Crucial Election Dates Revealed: Key Political Statements and Global Updates
Election Dates Announced for 5 States/UTs
The Election Commission of India has announced the dates for assembly elections in five states and one Union Territory. Polling will take place on April 9 and April 23, with results declared on May 4. Key states include Assam, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Kerala. Puducherry will also hold elections.
Political Reactions to Election Announcements
Political leaders have shared their views on the election schedule. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav stated his alliance will contest three seats in Kerala. BJP MP Arun Govil expressed confidence in his party’s performance, particularly in Bengal. JDU National Working President Sanjay Jha anticipates NDA victories in Rajya Sabha elections and in Assam and Bengal, citing public faith in the central government.
Congress President Writes to Election Commission
Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge has sent a letter to the Election Commission. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav expressed hope for Mamata Banerjee’s government in Bengal and DMK’s in Tamil Nadu, predicting BJP losses elsewhere. He also urged the Election Commission to ensure fair and safe voting conditions.
Rajya Sabha Elections Underway
Voting for 11 Rajya Sabha seats is scheduled for today, with results expected the same day. BJP MLA Maithili Thakur voiced happiness over the NDA candidates, expecting all five to win. RJD MP Manoj Jha advised the Election Commission to conduct free and fair elections, emphasizing that fairness goes beyond mere written words.
International and Domestic News Highlights
External Affairs Minister Visits Brussels
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is visiting Brussels on March 15-16. He will attend a Foreign Affairs Council meeting with EU member states’ foreign ministers. This visit is at the invitation of the EU’s High Representative and Vice-President.
Air India Adjusts UAE Operations
Air India and Air India Express have modified their flight schedules to the UAE for March 15, 2026. This is in line with directives from UAE airport authorities. Several flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other destinations have been cancelled or curtailed. Limited operations will continue, subject to slot availability.
LPG Tanker Reaches Mundra Port
An LPG tanker that crossed the Strait of Hormuz has arrived at Shiwalik Mundra Port in Gujarat. This marks a significant development in energy logistics.
Kumbh Mela Preparations Underway
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a review meeting for the 2027 Kumbh Mela preparations in Dam Kothi. This indicates early planning for the major religious event.
Snowfall Impacts Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh
Heavy snowfall has affected Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. In Himachal’s Kullu district, 40-50 tourists are stranded at Jalori Pass, with rescue operations ongoing. Manali is covered in snow. In Ladakh, Kargil district police successfully rescued vehicles and passengers stranded on the Zojila Pass due to heavy snowfall. Sonamarg also experienced heavy snowfall, leading to a drop in temperature.
Assam Congress Campaigns in Lakhimpur
Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi conducted a campaign in Lakhimpur, as part of election preparations.
Fire in Madurai Warehouse
A fire broke out in a warehouse in Sakimangalam, Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Fire tenders were present at the scene to control the blaze.
Administrative Changes in Bengal
A significant administrative reshuffle has occurred in West Bengal. Both the Chief Secretary and Home Secretary have been changed as part of this reshuffling.
K Kavita Receives CBI Notice
K Kavita has received a CBI notice in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case. A court hearing is scheduled for today.
IndiGo Expands Middle East Flights
IndiGo will operate 252 flights to the Middle East from today until March 28, increasing connectivity to the region.
