Ideology ? What is that ??? :::: NDA-backed candidate wins Jharkhand Rajya Sabha polls after cross-voting :::: For NDA ... it's a season of "increasing number of MPs"

NDA-backed candidate wins Jharkhand Rajya Sabha polls after cross-voting

The BJP-led NDA has 24 MLAs in the 81-member Jharkhand Assembly, four short of the 28 first-preference votes required to secure a Rajya Sabha berth. The ruling INDIA bloc, comprising the JMM, Congress and their allies, has 56 members in the House.

NDA-backed Independent Parimal Nathwani won a Rajya Sabha seat from Jharkhand amid cross-voting.

JMM's Baidyanath Ram took the second berth. Nathwani's victory came despite the NDA being short of the required numbers in the Assembly.

Amid cross-voting, NDA-backed Independent candidate Parimal Nathwani on Thursday won one of the two Rajya Sabha seats from Jharkhand, defeating Congress candidate Pranav Jha. The second seat was won by ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) candidate Baidyanath Ram.

Nathwani secured 28 votes and was declared elected, while Jha received 20 votes, according to an official. Ram polled 30 votes to win the other seat.  

Voting for the two Rajya Sabha seats concluded on Thursday, with all 81 MLAs casting their votes at the polling station set up on the Assembly premises.

The results saw Nathwani emerge victorious despite the NDA lacking the required numbers on its own, indicating cross-voting during the election process. 

The other seat went to JMM’s Baidyanath Ram, ensuring representation for the ruling alliance in the Upper House of Parliament.

(Nathwani takes it all) 

With the victory, Nathwani has been elected to the Rajya Sabha for a historic fourth term. 

He will represent Jharkhand once again after previously serving two consecutive terms as an Independent MP from the state between 2008 and 2020. 

He is also credited with holding the distinction of being one of the longest-serving Independent members in the history of the Rajya Sabha. After representing Andhra Pradesh in the Upper House from 2020, his latest election marks a return to Jharkhand, which he has long described as his "karmabhoomi".  

In a statement, Nathwani thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP National President Nitin Nabin, Jharkhand BJP President Aditya Sahu, BJP Legislature Party leader Babulal Marandi, BJP Chief Whip Naveen Jaiswal and all BJP and NDA legislators for their support in his victory. 

Nathwani added that infrastructure development, healthcare facilities and education in rural regions would remain key priorities during his tenure.

In Madhya Pradesh, the Congress suffered a setback when Meenaskhi Natrajan's candidature was cancelled due to concealing facts about a legal case.  

More cross voting expected from other states.   

The rebel MPs - Sanjay Jadhav, Sanjay Deshmukh, Omraje Nimbalkar, Bhausaheb Wakchaure, Nagesh Patil Ashtikar and Sanjay Dina Patil - had already skipped a meeting on June 14. Before that, they also skipped Aaditya Thackeray's birthday celebrations.

Midnight flights to Delhi, fear of Congress merger: Inside Sena UBT MPs' revolt

Six Sena UBT MPs quietly reached Delhi from various destinations shortly after midnight on June 16, met Eknath Shinde and submitted a letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker. 

A second split in Uddhav Thackeray's Sena faction is almost inevitable.  

Late-night flights to Delhi, a secret meeting with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and a letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker - the rebellion by six Sena UBT MPs was marked by a carefully coordinated movement away from the limelight. 

A second split in Uddhav Thackeray's Sena faction started taking shape shortly after midnight on June 16, sources said. 

It now seems almost inevitable, as only three of the party's nine Lok Sabha MPs attended a crucial meeting on Thursday despite a whip.

ends 

Trump's adjectives for Narendra Modi will leave Rahul and Sickular ecosystem anguished and leaking wounds

 "People say he (PM Narendra Modi) is such a nice man," said US President Donald Trump adding at the same breath - "I say no. He is a tough man. He is very tough. He is a tough trader".  

At a joint press conference with Modi in France, Trump also said -- " ... and he loves Indian people. But he also loves the US. 

We had Howdy Modi". Just then Modi is heard adding his part of the story, "We hosted Namaste Trump in India".  

Interestingly further, during a photo session at the G7, Trump seemed to need a little support in stepping onto the podium. 

Modi immediately extended his hand and helped the US president up. The image of the ‘global power dynamics’ quickly gained traction online.  

Prime Minister Modi’s light-hearted comment during a photo session was picked up by mics, though other leaders seemed to have missed it. When the photographer asked world leaders if they were ready, PM Modi quipped: “We are always ready.” 

Though there was no visible reaction from his counterparts, the moment was widely shared.  

PM Modi and US President Trump met for the first time in 16 months and the former’s ‘bear hug’ reserved for world leaders was conspicuous by its absence. The absence of the warm optics after a strain in US-India relations over tariffs was not lost on the internet.

New Delhi concerned over growing differences between NSCN - Eastern Flank and NSCN-IM (Hebron camp) :::: None wants a situation of 'losing control' over trade of narcotics, timber and areca nut

New Delhi concerned over growing differences between NSCN - Eastern Flank and NSCN-IM (Hebron camp)   

In a recent statement, NSCN - Eastern Flank has stated: "During his tenure, Gen Anthony Ningkhan Shimray-VC sent the then Brig. Alen Siro to Homalin to surround and annihilate us in coordination with our adversaries. 

Ukhrul town : Manipur's Naga hub 

We kept Brig Alen Siro with us for more than 40 days, trying our best to reason with him against such treacherous activity and refraining from shedding the blood of our own Naga brothers, but he  refused  to  listen.  

"When  the  Peace  Mission  Team  comprising  of Maj.  Retd.  Hutovi Chishi,  Convener  of  the  Steering  Committee;   Maj.   Gen.   Retd.   Ramkathing  Varah, Executive  member,   Steering  Committee;   Maj.   Gen  Retd.   Rs.   Chinaoyo,   Executive Member, Steering Committee; and Mr. Wungnaoyung Sayai, Kilonser went to meet Brig Sorei at Homalin Camp, Brig Sorei openly stated that he was ordered by the then Longvibu to shoot at the cadres of the Eastern Flank. 

"Again, on 2nd November, 2025, an Army Command under the commandership of Brig. Yaruingani was sent to Somra village by the then Longvibu for a Joint Operation with the Myanmar Junta force in the Somra  Area.  Mr Rh  Raising,  Emissary  to  the  Collective  Leadership,  said  that  the Command was sent to strengthen the Eastern Flank and that four or five other national workers from other tribes would also be sent. 

"We were uplifted by such assurance from the top leadership, but when we went to speak with the Command in Somra, they refused even to talk to us." 

Serious cognizance has been taken by those who matter as the issues involved are not only related to internal problems in NSCN-IM, one time most potent Naga underground group, but also relate matters in neighbouring Myanmar. 

Needless to add, India is keen to have good, effective and mutual trust worthy bilateral ties with Myanmar.  

The knee-jerk reactions follow the recent announcement that the NSCN (IM) has imposed sweeping administrative and security measures vis-a-vis "Presidential Rule in the Wung Tangkhul Region (WTR) while simultaneously ordering strict monitoring of the Indo-Myanmar border.  

July 1, 2016 --- Soldiers of NSCN (IM) give a gun salute to their chairman Isak Chishi Swu during state funeral service 

Those in the know say -- these few episodes have created "uncertainties" and these do not fit in government's scheme of things. In other words, disturbance in peace and tranquility is a matter of concern because Manipur is heading for polls by March 2027. 

The BJP leadership has been under attack in the state since 2023 when first round of ethnic clashes were reported between Meiteis and Kukis. In 2025 and 2026; making things worse 'differences and politics of gun culture and hatred' have now returned between Kukis and Nagas. 

In the mid-nineties; the unprecedented violence between Kukis and Nagas have left hundreds dead and a few thousands homeless. The central government has thus sought detailed reports on - current situation in WTR, and also killings of four NSCN-Eastern Flank cadres in 'south east command' allegedly by the rival militant rivals. 

"It will be improper to say ... we are not bothered. Violence is painful in short term and in the long term can perpetrate more violence and add complexities to the Naga issue," says an analyst. Slowly it is dawning on every stakeholders that the 'delay' in finalisation of Naga peace talks since 1997 was a much harmful strategy. 

Key officials dealing with Naga and northeastern matters recently met former Gujarat Governor S C Jamir at the 'directives' of leaders from the western state. The details of the deliberations are being kept secret but issues like the role of the Neiphiu Rio government and some ultra groups came up for closer scrutiny. 

It is also learnt that the role of certain civil society organisations in Manipur's Naga region vis-a-vis allegations of money laundering and smuggling of arms etc are also being put "through the first stage of scanning".

 

(snaps of recent merciless killings in Manipur) 

The Eastern Flank of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM) has publicly accused the organisation’s Hebron-based leadership of adopting what it describes as a “compromised and surrendered position” on Naga political issue and deviating from the core principles of the 2015 Framework Agreement signed with Govt of India.  

The Eastern Flank stated that any future reconciliation within the organisation must be based on adherence to the Framework Agreement “in letter and spirit,” referencing principles outlined in a statement by Th. Muivah on November 7, 2024, reported Power Corridors.com.

The Eastern Flank further asserted that no oath of allegiance would be accepted until fundamental political issues are resolved and individuals allegedly acting against Naga national interests are held accountable.  

The official analysts feel the issue might soon turn out to be 'lose in control' over the movement of cadres and locals along India-Myanmar border. This will have serious implication especially for the Hebron camp. From the Govt of India 

None wants a situation of 'losing control' over the illegal trade of narcotics, timber and areca nut. 

From the Govt of India point of view, things are normal along India-Myanmar border in Nagaland and "all commodities moving freely at least in this state".  

ends 

Remembering Diana ::: "One of the characteristics of celebrity culture is that first you build someone up and then write about the downfall"

 "One of the characteristics of celebrity culture is that first you build someone up and then write about the downfall".  

This easily applied to Diana, who breather her last in 1997.  

Princess Diana’s empathetic, open-hearted approach quickly set her apart from the reserved world of royal protocol. She brought a fresh, relatable energy that often baffled the traditionalists. 

From a shy bride to passionate campaigner, Diana, Princess of Wales, did not just transform herself -- she changed her country too. 

According to 'Time' magazine of Aug 27, 2007 -- she was 'rebel heart'. 

Diana, Princess of Wales (born Diana Frances Spencer; 1 July 1961 – 31 August 1997), was a member of the British royal family. She was the first wife of Charles III (then Prince of Wales) and mother of Princes William and Harry. Her activism and glamour made her an international icon and earned her enduring popularity.  

As Princess of Wales, Diana undertook royal duties on behalf of the Queen and represented her at functions across the Commonwealth realms. 

She was celebrated in the media for her beauty, style, charm, and later, her unconventional approach to charity work. 

Her patronages were initially centred on children and the elderly, but she later became known for her involvement in two particular campaigns: one involved  ...

-- the social attitudes towards and the acceptance of AIDS patients, and 

the other for the international removal of landmines, promoted through the International Red Cross.

There are many ways to remember her -- But foremost of all and an incontrovertible fact was -- Diana had shook up the British monarchy ----; well in the process -- she speeded its Modernisation.  

There are interesting anecdotes too. -- Reportedly, when the 19-year-old Diana asked Charles if he loved her; her churlish fiance replied "whatever that means". Yet the Windsors thought they knew about love.  

Many years later we in Mumbai covered Charles altogether at a different function. In his opening remarks before meeting with business captains and trade leaders in India's commercial capital in 2003 -- he said, "Relationship matters in India".  

It was an occasion of more than simple whatever that means. Perhaps Charles had matured and he know he himself has been a protagonist of personal bonds and family. 

There is another context to reflect. There has been 'dissent' in Britain against monarchy itself. 

Some 18 per cent of Britons had called for abolition of monarchy since MORI, a polling firm first began gathering opinions on the royals in 1969. (Time magazine - 2007)  

To wrap up one may point out that the US academic Camille Paglia wrote once -- with its acquisition of Diana, the monarchy had restored its modernity.  

It was also realised rather quicker than expected -- that the Monarchy was able to realise that it "stands or falls" on public opinion. 

The Truth is always harder to pin down. The British have always been good at silence.  

When Lady Diana Spencer married Prince Charles in 1981, the world watched in awe as a shy kindergarten assistant became a royal icon overnight. 

The public fascination with Princess Diana was immediate and overwhelming, casting her into an unforgiving spotlight. 

Yet beneath the glamorous exterior, tensions quickly brewed between Diana and the rigid traditions of the British monarchy. 

This power struggle would not only shape Diana’s life but also leave a permanent mark on the royal family itself, challenging its ability to adapt and survive in a rapidly changing world.

A relentless scrutiny heightened tensions between Diana and the royal institution, exposing vulnerabilities and fueling mistrust.

ends  

Bangladesh heading for another round of Trouble !! :::: "We will not be a tamed opposition. If our logical proposals are dismissed, we may walk out, but not permanently,” says Jamaat leader

“What can be resolved in Parliament will be resolved there. If not, it will be resolved on the streets," warned 

Opposition Leader and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami leader Shafiqur Rahman. 

"We cannot abandon the people’s demand. We are committed, and we will not betray the people. This demand will be realised -- if not today, then tomorrow, In sha Allah,” he said while speaking at a views exchange meeting with journalists in Dhaka.  

Street protests in 2024 had brought the downfall of the Sheikh Hasina regime and now similar threats are being issued to the BNP regime led by new Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. 

The Bangladesh opposition leader now says the opposition will not nominate representatives to the government’s proposed committee on constitutional amendment.

He said the people’s demand was constitutional reform, and that was why the referendum was held, with 70 percent of voters supporting it.  

“If a committee is formed for reform, we will consider it. But for amendment, no committee is needed. That is routine work. Bills will come from the treasury bench, we will join the debate, and they will either pass or be rejected. Committees are required only for reform,” he added.

He pledged a more assertive role of the opposition at the parliament, stating, “Our decision is different. We will not be a tamed opposition. Nor will we act in ways that undermine public interest. If our logical proposals are dismissed, we may walk out, but not permanently,” he said.  

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami is a conservative Islamist party that has historically maintained strong pro-Pakistan ties. While the party was previously banned, the United States has increasingly reached out to Jamaat hardliners to establish alliances in a shifting political landscape.  

Rebranding 

Facing scrutiny for their historical ties to Pakistan, Jamaat has attempted to rebrand itself as a moderate, democratic, and reform-minded force. 

However, experts remain deeply concerned about the party's hardline disposition, advocacy for Sharia law, and polarizing rhetoric.  

Khaleeda Zia and Sheikh Hasina 

The Washington Post reported US diplomats are looking to step up their engagement with the group, basing its claim on audio recordings obtained by the newspaper. The US newspaper also reported that an American diplomat downplayed concerns that the Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh would try to force its interpretation of Islamic law on Bangladesh.

The pro-Pakistan Bangladesh Jamaat-E-Islami was banned under the Sheikh Hasina regime for terror links, and it was a key force in the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government through street protests in August 2024. 

It has also been blamed for the violence against minorities especially Hindus.  

ends 

Only a 60-day Ceasefire pact !!! ::: What is Trump trying to mislead his country and the world ???? :::::: Iran’s chief negotiator, Ghalibaf, said: “The agreement is a record of US failure"

 US releases text of Iran peace plan as Trump says deal averts ‘worldwide depression’  

Iran’s chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said: “The agreement is a record of US failure. People will see it and judge.”

Defending the deal, Donald Trump says no US president had ever been as tough on Iran as him, and “there is nothing as smart as the market – and the market loves it”.

NUCLEAR PROGRAM REMAINS SENSITIVE ISSUE

Iran's enriched uranium would remain inside the country and would not be transferred abroad. Iran says one option under discussion is the dilution of enriched uranium.

Iranian officials emphasized that the Farsi and English versions of the agreement contain similar provisions and have been signed by both sides.

The Trump administration has released the text of its 14-point agreement with Iran, claiming it delivered a “major win” for the United States – even as it made significant political and financial concessions to Iran to reopen the strait of Hormuz and prevent a “worldwide depression”.

Trump said that “the alternative would be a worldwide depression”, arguing that if he had not struck a deal, “the strait [of Hormuz] would never have been opened. They don’t like floating billion-dollar ships up and down the strait when their rockets are flying overhead and there are mines all over the place.”

Senior administration officials said the deal would help prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, pointing to an agreement to discuss down-blending its 440kg stockpile of highly enriched uranium, which could be further enriched for use in a nuclear weapon. 

Trump has said he was open to the stockpile being diluted inside Iran under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency. 

Trump and Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, signed the agreement on Wednesday. The US vice-president, JD Vance, is also expected to sign the deal at a more formal ceremony in Geneva on Friday.

The Trump administration had delayed the release of the full text of the memorandum of understanding, which is essentially a 60-day ceasefire agreement, in order to hold more comprehensive nuclear and permanent peace talks with Iran. The 14-point plan was dictated to journalists during a background briefing by senior administration officials as Trump spoke at the end of the G7.

The deal would provide important financial incentives to Iran, including the immediate lifting of a US naval blockade on Iranian ports and the issuance of waivers for Iranian crude oil to be shipped abroad. 

PM Modi and Prez Trump hold "first one-on-one meeting since Operation Sindoor" in May 2025 ::::: "If Modi is the leader and India is attacked, we will help them," says Trump

 No hugging this time ... Was this deliberate ???

"If Modi is the leader and India is attacked, we will be there to help them," US president Donald Trump said with a chuckle.

In their first meeting in 16 months at the French commune of Evian-les-Bains, Trump described his conversation with Narendra Modi as "very good" and signaled continued strategic cooperation between Washington and New Delhi.  

"India and the US have a great relationship. We cannot be closer. Both he and I, and our nations. It really starts with the two of us. We cannot be any closer," the US President said.

The meeting assumed significance as it came amid efforts by New Delhi and Washington to reset ties strained by tariff disputes, disagreements over Trump's claims of mediating the India-Pakistan conflict, tighter US immigration measures on Indians, and the recent deaths of three Indian sailors in American military strikes near Oman.

Addressing reporters during the talks, Trump described his meeting with PM Modi as "very good" and underscored the closeness of the bilateral relationship.  

Trump's remarks came after India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. Under the operation, Indian forces carried out precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

The military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours lasted nearly 88 hours before both sides reached an understanding on May 10 to halt hostilities.

India has repeatedly maintained that the ceasefire understanding was made between New Delhi and Islamabad and not by Donald Trump. 

Modi's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had said in 2025 -- "US was in the US" -- meaning there was no scope for any third party intervention between India and Pakistan especially on matters directly and indirectly linked to Jammu and Kashmir.