In a major political development, Rajya Sabha MPs Raghav Chadha, Swati Maliwal, Harbhajan Singh, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal, Rajinder Gupta, and Vikram Sahni have announced their decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The move has sparked strong reactions from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which accused the BJP of orchestrating 'Operation Lotus' to destabilize the Punjab government. AAP MP Sanjay Singh stated, 'The Bharatiya Janata Party, under Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, has launched Operation Lotus, which is being described as a game of cheap politics and an attempt to obstruct the good work of the Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab on a large scale.'
PM Modi Slams West Bengal Government, Warns TMC
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a rally in Panihati under the Dum Dum Lok Sabha constituency, launched a scathing attack on the West Bengal government. He claimed that a 'wave of change' has become visible after the first phase of polling and warned Trinamool Congress (TMC) 'goons' that they have 'no place to hide after May 4.' Modi urged voters to support the BJP, saying, 'This revolution will come through your single vote.' The rally also featured the mother of the RG Kar case victim, who is contesting from the assembly constituency.
Iran's Araghchi Expected in Pakistan for US Talks
Government sources have indicated a 'high likelihood of breakthrough' in US-Iran talks being held in Islamabad. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to arrive in the Pakistani capital tonight leading a delegation, as reported by Al Jazeera. Earlier in the day, Araghchi held a phone call with Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, with both sides confirming the discussion. The talks focused on regional developments, the ceasefire situation, and ongoing diplomatic efforts related to US-Iran engagement.
Opposition Moves to Impeach CEC Gyanesh Kumar Again
Opposition parties have submitted a fresh notice in the Rajya Sabha seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The notice, signed by 73 Members of Parliament, alleges nine charges of 'proven misbehaviour' against the CEC. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh stated that Kumar's continuation in office amounts to an assault on the Constitution. This marks the second attempt by the opposition to impeach the CEC.
IPL 2026: Samson Leads Orange Cap Race, Kamboj Tops Purple Cap
The IPL 2026 season has reached nearly the midway stage, with 33 out of 70 league matches completed. In the race for the Orange Cap, Rajasthan Royals' Sanju Samson has stormed to the top, while Harshit Kamboj has reclaimed the Purple Cap top spot. The competition is intensifying as teams push for playoff berths, with key performers emerging in both batting and bowling departments.
These are the top five news stories of the day, covering significant political shifts, diplomatic developments, and sporting highlights.
