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'I can't do anything': Nirmala Sitharaman, Adhir Ranjan spar on Karnataka fund allocation

During the budget session, a heated exchange unfolded between Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury regarding the allocation of funds to Karnataka.

Chowdhury accused the Centre of withholding legitimate tax and GST dues from non-BJP states, specifically targeting the treatment of Congress-ruled Karnataka. He suggested that there was a perception of bias against states not governed by the BJP.

Sitharaman firmly rebutted these allegations, dismissing them as a "politically vitiated narrative" driven by vested interests. She emphasised that the distribution of funds to states is based on the recommendations of the Finance Commission and is executed without any partiality or political influence. Sitharaman clarified that as the Finance Minister, she has no authority to alter allocations based on personal preferences or party politics, ensuring adherence to rules and fairness in the financial devolution process.

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Kerala Assembly Row: CM Accuses Governor of Altering Cabinet-Approved Policy Address

On this report, the focus is on the opening day of the Kerala Assembly session, which was marked by a significant confrontation between the state government and the Governor. The session began with allegations from the Chief Minister that the Governor unilaterally modified the cabinet-approved policy address by adding and deleting specific portions. A key point of contention involves the omission of a sentence stating that 'the state is currently facing severe fiscal stress due to certain projects and due to certain steps taken by the central government affecting the fiscal federalism.' Additionally, references to the Governor's delay in signing pending bills and the subsequent legal move to the Supreme Court were reportedly skipped. While the Governor proceeded with the address without a walkout, the Speaker of the Kerala Assembly backed the Chief Minister, maintaining that any changes to the policy address without cabinet approval are unacceptable. The programme examines the escalating tension between the state executive and the Governor's office.

Election Varshaar: Rameshwaram Fishermen Battle Fear, Fines and Livelihood Crisis | Ground Report

On this special report of Election Varshaar, the focus shifts to the Ramanathapuram district, specifically the sacred island of Rameshwaram. The unidentified speaker highlights the geographical and spiritual significance of the region, noting its connection to the mainland via the Pamban Bridge and its legendary ties to Lord Rama. However, the report primarily addresses the dire livelihood challenges faced by the local fishing community. The speaker notes, 'The biggest problem for the fishermen at this spot is that they are dependent on the sea, but they cannot go any close to Sri Lanka.' Despite the constant threat of harassment, attacks, and hefty fines imposed by the Sri Lankan Navy, the fishermen continue to venture into the sea as fishing remains their only source of income. The programme explores the contrast between the serenity of the Rameshwaram temple and the daily 'ordeal' of those dependent on the Gulf of Mannar for survival.

Tamil Nadu Assembly Row: Governor R.N. Ravi Stages Walkout For Third Consecutive Year

This debate explores the constitutional crisis in the Tamil Nadu Assembly following Governor R.N. Ravi's decision to stage a walkout for the third consecutive year. The unidentified host highlights the friction between Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and the Governor, who refused to read the customary address, citing 'inaccuracies' and 'misleading' claims. A key quote from the discussion notes: 'The Governor reads out the scripted speech. And the speech will always be congratulatory to the government of the day.' Panellists, including DMK spokesperson Salem Dharani Dharan and Supreme Court Advocate K.V. Dhananjay, debate whether the Governor's actions constitute a violation of constitutional conventions. The discussion further examines allegations of the Centre using Governors to interfere in non-BJP ruled states, with legal experts suggesting that such repeated walkouts set an 'unhealthy precedent' for Indian democracy and federalism.

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Tamil Nadu Assembly Showdown: Governor R.N. Ravi Stages Walkout Over 'Inaccurate' Address

On this Special Report, the focus is on the escalating constitutional crisis in Tamil Nadu as Governor R.N. Ravi staged a walkout from the State Assembly for the third consecutive year. The Governor refused to deliver the customary address prepared by the DMK government, claiming it contained 'unsubstantiated claims' and 'inaccuracies' regarding investment figures and women's safety. He further alleged that his microphone was muted and the national anthem was insulted. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin countered these claims, accusing the Governor of insulting the people of Tamil Nadu and acting at the behest of the Centre to stall state administration. Legal experts and political analysts on the panel debated whether the Governor’s actions violate constitutional conventions, with some calling for his recall to prevent an 'unhealthy precedent.' The programme explores the deepening rift between the Raj Bhavan and the state government ahead of the upcoming elections.