Mallikarjun

Mallikarjun Kharge has dismissed immediate changes to Karnataka's chief ministership, despite his name surfacing as a potential consensus pick. His extensive experience and neutral stance make him a strong candidate to bridge the Siddaramaiah-Shivakumar divide. His elevation could also mark Karnataka's first Dalit CM, offering symbolic and electoral advantages.

A father poured petrol on his 19-year-old son after an argument over a bike. Flames from nearby cooking caught the petrol-soaked youth, igniting him. The father also caught fire. Both sustained burn injuries and are undergoing treatment. Police have registered a case of attempt to murder.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge downplayed the Karnataka chief ministerial tussle between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar, stating the party will resolve the "confusion soon." This comes amid speculation fueled by a reported power-sharing agreement and a statement from Home Minister G Parameshwara suggesting Kharge could be a suitable CM.

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan criticized Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge's "terrorist" remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting Kharge struggles to differentiate between concepts. This follows Kharge's controversial statement during the Tamil Nadu election campaign. A BJP delegation has urged the Election Commission to take strict action against Kharge, demanding an apology.

A court in Gangavathi has sentenced six individuals to death and imposed a Rs 3 lakh fine each for the premeditated murder of BJP Yuva Morcha city unit president Venkatesh Kurubar. The victim was chased, rammed off his two-wheeler, and hacked to death with machetes in October 2025. Six other accused were acquitted due to insufficient evidence.

The Congress has submitted a preliminary response to the Election Commission's notice concerning party president Mallikarjun Kharge's "terrorist" remark. The party alleges the notice, citing discrepancies and a rushed deadline, indicates ulterior motives and a lack of due diligence. They have requested a week to provide a detailed reply and seek an audience with the EC.

Congress narrowly retained the Davanagere South seat, with its victory margin significantly reduced due to minority unrest and internal dissent. A substantial split in minority votes, exacerbated by numerous Muslim candidates, contributed to the close contest. Despite challenges, women voters, particularly from minority communities, provided crucial support.

VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan dismissed actor Vijay's chances of winning the Tamil Nadu assembly election, stating he lacks the capability to dethrone the DMK. He also noted that Vijay's party may have split anti-DMK votes, ultimately benefiting the DMK. Meanwhile, TN Congress chief K Selvaperunthagai expressed confidence in the DMK-led alliance securing over 200 seats.