On this Special Report, anchor Akshita Nandagopal examines the political storm ignited by the announcement of the Padma Awards. While the centre hails them as the 'People's Padma' based on merit, critics argue the selections are 'electionising' the honours, particularly in poll-bound states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. Akshita Nandagopal notes, 'this recognition of merit is being read through a political lens, with critics accusing the centre of politicising' the awards. The programme breaks down the numbers, revealing Maharashtra has the highest count, yet highlights controversial inclusions like V.S. Achuthanandan and Shibu Soren for Padma Vibhushan. Reporters Shibi Mole and Anagha Keshav join to discuss the impact in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, including the debate over Mammootty’s 'long overdue' Padma Bhushan and the recognition of IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti. The report concludes by celebrating the immense contributions of the awardees in culture, science, and public service despite the surrounding political showdown.
In an exclusive interview with India Today, legal expert Harish Salve discussed the constitutional crisis in West Bengal following Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's refusal to resign despite losing her seat and the decisive mandate against her party.
An India Today ground report from Tehran details the ongoing conflict, its impact on the city's infrastructure and how Iranians have gathered at Enghelab Square to demonstrate solidarity and unity amid war.
The Congress state unit in Tamil Nadu held an online meeting and decided to extend support to TVK. Congress is seeking a power-sharing agreement and is likely to demand two cabinet portfolios, along with a few board and corporation chairman posts, and other government roles such as trust members and directors.
Watch as India Today's Geeta Mohan brings this exclusive ground report from Iran's fourteenth-century Golestan Palace, which was damaged during the US-Israel airstrikes on Tehran.
