A political controversy has broken out in Kerala after an official document circulated by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to political parties carried the seal of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The incident has raised questions about procedural lapses at a sensitive time ahead of the Assembly elections.

The issue surfaced when a document related to the disclosure of candidates’ criminal antecedents was shared with political stakeholders. The paper, instead of bearing only official markings, included the BJP Kerala unit’s seal, prompting immediate criticism from opposition parties.

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) highlighted the matter publicly, calling it a serious concern. Party leaders alleged that such an error could undermine confidence in the independence of the Election Commission. The Congress also echoed similar concerns, questioning how a party symbol appeared on an official communication.

Responding to the controversy, Kerala Chief Electoral Officer Dr. Rathan U. Kelkar clarified that the incident was purely accidental. He explained that the document in circulation was originally part of earlier records submitted by the BJP in 2019, which included its party seal. During routine handling, this version was mistakenly shared with other parties without noticing the marking.

Kelkar stressed that there was no bias or external influence involved in the process. He added that the error was detected quickly, and immediate corrective measures were taken. Authorities withdrew the document and instructed all recipients to ignore it.

As part of the response, the Election Department suspended an Assistant Section Officer who was responsible for processing the file. An internal inquiry has been initiated to determine how the lapse occurred and to prevent similar mistakes in the future.

The Election Commission has reiterated that the lapse was isolated and does not affect the integrity of the electoral process, assuring voters and political parties that safeguards remain firmly in place.

Despite the clarification, the episode has intensified political tensions in the state. Opposition parties maintain that even a procedural mistake of this nature raises concerns about institutional reliability, especially during an election period.

Also Read: Relief for India as LPG ships clear Hormuz

There is some good news for India’s cooking gas supply, as Indian-flagged LPG tankers have started moving again through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route that had been under stress due to tensions in the Middle East.

Two Indian LPG ships have already crossed the strait and are now on their way home. For days, these vessels were stuck in the Gulf region because of safety concerns linked to the ongoing conflict. Their successful journey now brings relief, as they carry enough LPG to support domestic demand.

Adding to this positive development, two more Indian ships are currently passing through the same route. These vessels are moving carefully along safer paths, reportedly closer to the Iranian coastline, to avoid any risks. Their progress is being closely watched, as it could further improve the supply situation in the coming days.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the busiest and most important energy routes in the world. A large portion of global oil and gas passes through this narrow stretch. So when tensions rise in the region, it directly affects countries like India, which depend heavily on imports for fuel and cooking gas.

In recent days, the conflict had slowed down ship movement, creating worries about delays and shortages. Many tankers were either held back or took longer routes, raising concerns about supply disruptions. For households and businesses that rely on LPG, this situation was especially worrying.

Now, with ships finally moving again, there is a sense of relief. The arrival of these tankers is expected to help maintain steady supply and prevent any immediate shortage.

However, the situation is still not completely stable. The region remains sensitive, and any sudden escalation could once again affect shipping routes.

Also Read: Rupee near 93.71 due to global tensions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the Lok Sabha, highlighting the ongoing West Asia conflict as a serious challenge for India. He described the situation as “worrisome” and urged preparedness to tackle its potential impact on energy supplies, trade routes, and the safety of Indian citizens in the region.

PM Modi stressed that millions of Indians live and work in West Asia, and the government has strengthened emergency support systems, including 24×7 helplines, advisories, and control rooms, to ensure their safety. He reassured that all possible measures are being taken to protect Indian nationals amid rising tensions.

A key concern, he noted, is the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and gas shipments. Any disruption there could affect India’s energy security, and the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining safe passage through this strategic corridor. Diplomatic efforts are underway to engage regional and global partners to prevent escalation.

Domestically, Modi said India is prepared for short-term disruptions in fuel and energy supplies. Strategic petroleum reserves have been expanded, and essential commodities such as LPG, crude, coal, and fertilizers are being closely monitored to ensure stability.

Drawing parallels with India’s COVID-19 response, PM Modi urged citizens and institutions to remain disciplined, united, and resilient. He highlighted proactive diplomatic outreach aimed at promoting dialogue and de-escalation in the region.

PM Modi also stressed that India’s priority is to balance national security with economic stability, and to diversify energy sources to reduce dependency on vulnerable routes. He called on citizens to stay calm, noting that India has successfully navigated global crises in the past with patience, planning, and collective resolve.

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Samsung has introduced a new feature that allows Galaxy smartphone users to share files with Apple devices, bringing an AirDrop-like experience to its ecosystem.

The feature is part of an upgraded Quick Share system and is being rolled out starting with the Galaxy S26 series. It enables users to transfer photos, videos and documents wirelessly to nearby devices, including iPhones, iPads and Mac computers, without relying on third-party apps or cloud services.

To use the feature, Galaxy users need to turn on Quick Share, while Apple users must set their AirDrop visibility to “Everyone.” Once both devices are discoverable, files can be sent instantly over a wireless connection, similar to Apple’s native sharing system.

For years, transferring files between Android and Apple devices has been inconvenient, often requiring messaging apps, email or cloud storage. Samsung’s latest update aims to simplify this process and improve the overall user experience.

The rollout has begun on March 23 in select countries and is expected to expand gradually to more regions. Samsung is also likely to extend the feature to older Galaxy devices through future software updates.

By enabling smoother interaction between Android and iOS devices, Samsung is addressing a long-standing gap in connectivity.

Also Read: Ex-Pak envoy Abdul Basit’s ‘India strike’ remark sparks row

Iran has warned it will attack power plants in West Asia that supply electricity to United States military bases if its own energy infrastructure is targeted, signalling a sharp rise in tensions with Washington.

The warning came from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which said any US strike on Iranian facilities would trigger retaliation beyond direct military targets. Tehran indicated that electrical plants and other infrastructure connected to US interests in the region could be hit.

The threat follows reports that the United States is considering action against Iran’s energy facilities if disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue. The waterway is a key global oil route, and any conflict in the area has major implications for energy supplies worldwide.

Iran has stressed that its response would be decisive and extended, aiming not only at military assets but also at economic and industrial systems linked to the US presence in the region. Officials said there should be no doubt about Iran’s willingness to act if attacked.

The situation has raised concerns among countries in West Asia, many of which depend on shared power grids and desalination plants. Any strikes on electrical facilities could disrupt electricity and water supplies, increasing the risk of humanitarian and economic challenges.

The standoff is part of a broader escalation involving Iran and the US, with tensions already affecting global energy markets. Continued instability around the Strait of Hormuz could lead to further disruptions in oil supply and rising prices.

Also Read: IAF civilian staffer held for Pakistan espionage

Narendra Modi has become India’s longest-serving head of government, marking a major milestone in the country’s political history.

With this, Modi has gone past the previous record held by Pawan Kumar Chamling, who served as Sikkim’s Chief Minister for over two decades. The record counts continuous time in office, including both state and national leadership roles.

Modi’s journey began in 2001, when he took charge as Chief Minister of Gujarat. He led the state for more than 13 years before moving to national politics. In 2014, he became Prime Minister of India and has continued in the role since then, winning multiple general elections.

Supporters and leaders from the ruling alliance have welcomed the milestone, describing it as a sign of sustained public support and political stability. They say the long tenure reflects voters’ confidence in his leadership over the years.

During his time in office, Modi has focused on areas such as infrastructure development, digital initiatives and welfare programmes. His leadership style and policies have had a significant impact on India’s governance and global presence.

At the same time, the milestone has also sparked discussion about political longevity and the challenges that come with long periods in power. Observers note that maintaining public support over such a long time is rare in a democratic system.

The record places Modi among a small group of leaders worldwide who have held office continuously for an extended period. It highlights not just the length of his tenure, but also the consistency of his political success.

Also Read: IAF civilian staffer held for Pakistan espionage

A civilian employee working with the Indian Air Force (IAF) has been arrested in Assam for allegedly spying for Pakistan. Officials said the man had been passing on sensitive military information to Pakistani handlers since 2023.

The accused, a 36-year-old staff member, was posted at an Air Force station in Chabua, Assam. He worked in a non-combat role but still had access to important information. Authorities said he was caught after a joint operation by Rajasthan Intelligence and Air Force Intelligence.

According to investigators, the man was in regular contact with Pakistani agents and shared confidential details in return for money. He is believed to have leaked information about Air Force bases, including details related to fighter aircraft, missile systems, and personnel.

Officials said some of the information could be highly sensitive and may affect national security. The case has raised concerns about internal security and the risk of insiders leaking critical defence data.

Investigators also found that the accused used social media to communicate with his handlers. He reportedly helped create accounts using his mobile number, which were then used to exchange information secretly.

The case was first noticed during an earlier investigation in Rajasthan. Intelligence agencies were tracking suspicious activities when they uncovered links that led them to the accused in Assam. This suggests that the case may be part of a larger espionage network operating across different states.

The accused has been taken to Jaipur for further questioning. He is likely to be charged under the Official Secrets Act and other laws related to national security.

Officials said more arrests could follow as the investigation continues. Security agencies are now working together to find out if others were involved and to prevent such incidents in the future.

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Listening to familiar music improves brain responses during eye contact, activating areas that interpret faces and intentions. This strengthens social bonds, showing that shared musical experiences enhance connection and empathy between people, according to recent research.

Manchester City beat Arsenal 2-0 to win the Carabao Cup, lifting the trophy at Wembley after a strong second-half performance.

The final began cautiously, with both teams struggling to create clear chances in the first half. Arsenal looked organised, while City kept possession but found it difficult to break through.

The game changed soon after the break. Nico O’Reilly put City ahead, taking advantage of a mistake from Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. The goal gave City momentum and shifted the pressure onto Arsenal.

O’Reilly struck again later in the half, finishing off a well-worked move to double the lead and effectively seal the match. His performance proved decisive, turning a tight contest into a comfortable victory for City.

Arsenal, who came into the final in good form, were unable to respond. They struggled to create meaningful chances and could not find a way past City’s defence. The loss extends their long wait for a League Cup title.

For Manchester City, the win is another important trophy and a reminder of their strength in domestic competitions. It also provides a boost after some mixed results in other tournaments this season.

The match highlighted City’s ability to step up in key moments, while Arsenal were left to reflect on missed opportunities in a big final.

Also Read: Assam minister Nandita Garlosa switches to Congress

The Lakmé Fashion Week 2026, held from 19–22 March at Mumbai’s Jio World Convention Centre, was a dazzling mix of celebrity glamour and cutting-edge fashion. Over four days, designers showcased their latest collections, blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with modern silhouettes and contemporary flair.

Bollywood stars lit up the runway as showstoppers. Disha Patani wowed in a sculptural lehenga, Ananya Panday added youthful energy to Rahul Mishra’s showcase, and Tamannaah Bhatia impressed in a brocade ensemble with heritage-inspired detailing. Other actresses, including Radhika Madan, Diana Penty, Khushi Kapoor, and Shanaya Kapoor, brought elegance and style, effortlessly combining modern trends with classic Indian aesthetics.

Emerging designers also made their mark with experimental silhouettes, intricate embroidery, metallic accents, and sustainable fabrics, reflecting a fresh, forward-thinking approach to fashion. The week highlighted a mix of wearable art and high-fashion statements, celebrating both innovation and tradition.

The finale was a spectacle of energy and creativity, with younger talents like Aneet Padda adding a Gen Z flair that left the audience buzzing. As the lights dimmed and the applause echoed, this year’s Lakmé Fashion Week 2026  was a celebration of India’s style spirit, where tradition meets trend, and every outfit told a story waiting to be worn.

Also Read: PM Modi sets record for longest time in office