

In a surprise political move, Ashok Tanwar, a prominent leader of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Haryana, has joined the Congress party. Tanwar, who was a member of BJP's campaign committee in the state, made his return to Congress official in a public rally attended by party leader Rahul Gandhi. While the reason for his switch remains unclear, the Congress has welcomed Tanwar, stating that his return will strengthen their fight for the rights of Dalits in the state. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi used the opportunity to amplify the ideological differences between Congress and BJP during a poll rally, citing the mistreatment of women wrestlers in Delhi as an example of BJP's anti-Constitution approach.
Ashok Tanwar's Defection from BJP to Congress: A Significant Political Development in Haryana
Background:
Ashok Tanwar, a prominent political figure in Haryana, served as the Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee (HPCC) President from 2014 to 2019. However, he resigned from the Congress and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2020. His defection to BJP was seen as a major setback for the Congress in Haryana.
Tanwar's Return to Congress:
In a surprising turn of events, Tanwar rejoined the Congress in March 2023. His return was marked by a public rally attended by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. While the specific reasons for his defection back to Congress remain unclear, it is speculated that it may be related to political differences within the BJP.
Congress's Reaction:
The Congress has welcomed Tanwar's return, stating that his experience and leadership will strengthen the party's position in Haryana. The party has also expressed confidence that his return will boost Congress's campaign to protect the rights of Dalits in the state.
Political Implications:
Tanwar's defection to Congress is seen as a significant political development in Haryana. It could potentially change the political dynamics in the state, especially in the run-up to the upcoming assembly elections. Tanwar's return to the Congress fold could energize the party's base and give it a competitive edge in the upcoming polls.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. Why did Ashok Tanwar leave the BJP?
The reasons for Tanwar's defection back to Congress have not been officially disclosed. However, speculation suggests that it may be related to political differences within the BJP.
2. What is the significance of Tanwar's return to Congress?
Tanwar's return is seen as a significant political development in Haryana. It could potentially boost the Congress's position in the state, especially in the upcoming assembly elections.
3. How will Tanwar's defection impact the upcoming assembly elections?
Tanwar's defection could energize the Congress's base and give it a competitive edge in the upcoming assembly polls. However, it remains to be seen how the BJP will respond and whether it will be able to counter Congress's momentum.
4. What were the reasons behind Tanwar's initial defection to BJP in 2020?
Tanwar's reasons for joining the BJP in 2020 were not made public at the time. However, some analysts speculate that he may have been motivated by political ambitions or differences with the Congress leadership.
5. What is the current political landscape in Haryana?
The current political landscape in Haryana is dominated by the BJP and the Congress. The BJP is currently the ruling party in the state, while the Congress is the main opposition party. Other smaller parties also play a role in the state's politics, but they have limited influence.

The Pasighat police in East Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh have arrested the 33-year-old boys' hostel warden of Sanggo English School for sexually assaulting minor students. This came to light when a student was hospitalized for urogenital complications. The incident has sparked outrage from parents and the public, demanding strict action against the accused warden. In response, the Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commission (APSHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance and ordered for a detailed report on the investigation, victim protection, and school management.

Actress Siddiqa Begum, daughter and legal heir of Shah Bano, has served a legal notice on the makers of the upcoming Bollywood film 'Haq'. The notice states that the film's unauthorized depiction of the personal life of Shah Bano without the consent of her legal heirs is a violation of their rights. 'Haq' is based on the landmark 1985 Supreme Court case that granted maintenance to Shah Bano, a Muslim woman, from her divorced husband.

After four years, the 'Darbar Move' tradition in Jammu and Kashmir has been restored, fulfilling the promise of the government and bringing a boost to the economy. National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah expressed happiness, noting that those who sought to separate Jammu and Srinagar have failed. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah received a warm reception and inspected the secretariat premises after the ceremony, as security in the region was heightened for the occasion.

Delhi Legislative Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta praised Swami Dayanand Saraswati as not just a saint and reformer, but also a pivotal figure in India's freedom struggle. Speaking at the International Arya Samaj Conference, Gupta highlighted how Swami Dayanand's teachings sparked a revolution that led to the nation's independence. The event was attended by esteemed guests including Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat and top officials from the Arya Samaj community, all paying tribute to the enduring impact and legacy of Swami Dayanand Saraswati.

The Metro Railway Kolkata has announced a major schedule expansion for its Yellow Line, which runs between Noapara and Jai Hind Bimanbandar (Airport) in Kolkata. Starting from 3 November, weekday operations will increase to 120 services with extended operating hours, providing greater convenience and accessibility to commuters. Weekend travellers will also see a significant frequency upgrade, making travel on Saturdays and Sundays hassle-free. This move is expected to improve the overall public transportation system in the city and benefit the commuters.

Despite some reassurances that online verticals focused on diversity will continue, NBC News has announced a round of layoffs that will impact about 150 employees, or 2% of their workforce. The cuts are said to be a result of cost-cutting measures in preparation for the split of Comcast's cable networks into Versant. This move signifies a shift in priorities for NBC management, prioritizing corporate profits over hard-working members, according to Susan DeCarava, president of The NewsGuild of New York. This change also means that MSNBC will no longer lean on NBC News for newsgathering, with those ties expected to be severed next week.

The Kasibugga Venkateswara Temple in Srikakulam district was the site of a heart-wrenching stampede, causing multiple fatalities and affecting the community deeply. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has expressed his sorrow over the unfortunate incident, as well as directing officials to ensure that those injured receive the best medical treatment possible. As local officials and public representatives are called to oversee relief operations, swift action is required to aid those affected and manage the situation effectively.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Shanti Shikhar Academy for Peaceful World in Raipur, praising the Brahma Kumaris organization for bridging India's ancient wisdom with the world's search for harmony. He credited the group's selfless service and spiritual discipline for their efforts towards universal peace. He positioned the Brahma Kumaris as protectors of India's soul and highlighted India's proactive role in addressing global crises such as disaster relief and environmental threats.

In an act of solidarity and protest, millions of Muslims in India used their Friday prayers to denounce the recent killings that took place in Pahalgam. The news comes amid growing tensions between the Muslim community and the Indian government. Many are viewing this as a sign of unity and determination from the Muslim population in India.

The state of Karnataka, or Kannada Rajyotsava, marked its 69th anniversary with a grand ceremony organized by the district administration in Mangaluru. District in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao paid tribute to the leaders and writers who fought for a unified Kannada state and presented awards to 80 outstanding individuals and organizations. In his address, the minister highlighted the rich cultural and historical heritage of Karnataka and called for a sense of pride among its citizens.