In a recent statement, TMC leader Derek O’Brien criticized the BJP, accusing them of undermining democratic institutions like the Election Commission of India. He called for Supreme Court-monitored Lok Sabha polls, alleging BJP's attempts to manipulate the electoral process. The Election Commission's removal of top officials in multiple states, including West Bengal's police chief Rajeev Kumar, sparked a political clash between TMC and BJP. Tensions rise ahead of the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls starting April 19, particularly in West Bengal, where TMC won 22 seats in 2019, while BJP secured 18.

Rahul Gandhi's mention of "Shakti" at Mumbai's INDIA rally ignites political heat, with PM Modi seizing on the comment to frame the election clash. Gandhi's concerns over EVMs and government institutions under Modi's control fuel the debate. Modi accuses Gandhi of insulting Hinduism by disregarding Shakti's significance, drawing parallels to past controversies. The exchange underscores escalating rhetoric ahead of elections, with religious symbolism becoming a focal point for both sides.

Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K. Kavitha accused by Enforcement Directorate of paying ₹100 crore to AAP leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, in exchange for favors in Delhi's excise policy. Kavitha, daughter of former Telangana CM, in ED custody until March 23. ED claims continuous illegal funds generated for AAP through corruption in excise policy. Kavitha labeled key conspirator in scam. AAP and Kavitha deny allegations, accusing BJP of using ED and CBI as political tools. 15 arrested, including Manish Sisodia, in connection with the case. ED conducts searches nationwide, files six charge sheets, and seizes assets worth ₹128 crore.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal avoided Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons related to alleged Delhi Jal Board irregularities. AAP criticized summons' legality, citing bail. Delhi Minister Atishi labeled the case "fake." BJP accused of using agencies to hinder Kejriwal's activities. Kejriwal granted bail previously but faces ongoing ED summons over Delhi's excise policy. The policy aimed to enhance liquor business, introducing discounts and offers, yet Kejriwal contends ED's actions as "illegal." BJP seen as seeking to silence Kejriwal amid political activities. Kejriwal maintains his stance against ED's summons as legal battles continue.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi issued a clarification following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's criticism over his 'Shakti' remark, stirring controversy ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi defended his statement, stating it aimed at challenging the might of the state, not individuals. Responding to Modi's counter, Gandhi asserted the 'Shakti' he referred to symbolized the centralized power under Modi's leadership, encompassing various institutions. PM Modi, in response, reiterated his reverence for women as embodiments of 'Shakti' and vowed to defend it. The exchange underscores the escalating political tension as India gears up for the impending elections.

BJP slams Rahul Gandhi's 'Shakti' comment as misogynistic, alleging insult to India's voters, while the opposition defends him. Gandhi accused government misuse of central agencies for electoral gains, triggering a political row. BJP leaders criticize Gandhi's stance on EVM integrity, with Nalin Kohli calling it an insult to voters. Shehzad Poonawalla brands Gandhi anti-women power. RJD's Mrityunjay Tiwari supports Gandhi's remarks, promising public backlash. Congress's Sandeep Dikshit alleges BJP's misuse of agencies. AAP's Gopal Rai sees INDIA alliance fighting dictatorship. PM Modi counters Gandhi's 'Shakti' stance, asserting reverence for women. Political tensions escalate ahead of elections.            

The Election Commission of India has ordered the removal of top officials in several states ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. West Bengal's DGP Rajeev Kumar and home secretaries from six states are among those directed to be removed. The directive applies to officers serving in election-related roles for three years or stationed in their home districts. Maharashtra faced scrutiny for non-compliance, resulting in instructions to transfer BMC officials by 6 pm Monday. The commission expressed dissatisfaction with the state's chief secretary and extended the directive to other municipal commissioners and additional/deputy commissioners across Maharashtra.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh lambasts the BJP, alleging they orchestrated a scheme to funnel black money into party coffers through electoral bonds, as data reveals BJP received ₹6,900 crore, compared to Congress's ₹1,300 crore. Ramesh deems the scheme the "biggest extortion racket" by the ruling government. He points to companies swiftly purchasing bonds post-probe threats and alleges quid-pro-quo contracts with BJP. The Election Commission's release of bond data prompted scrutiny, revealing 1,260 entities purchasing ₹12,769 crore in bonds, with notable donors including SN Mohanty and Lakshmi Niwas Mittal. BJP denies wrongdoing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged rapid development for Andhra Pradesh under the NDA's governance during a rally in Palnadu. Promising a 'Viksit Bharat' and 'Viksit Andhra Pradesh', Modi highlighted the NDA's commitment to regional aspirations and national progress. He announced plans for significant decisions in the country's third term post-elections. Modi criticized the Congress, accusing them of exploiting allies. Sharing the stage with TDP's Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena's Pawan Kalyan, Modi reiterated NDA's inclusive approach. The BJP, TDP, and Jana Sena have formed a pre-poll alliance for the upcoming elections.

The Election Commission disclosed fresh data on electoral bonds, revealing DMK's receipt of ₹509 crore from Santiago Martin's Future Gaming company. Tamil Nadu's ruling party, among others, disclosed donor identities, with Megha Engineering contributing ₹105 crore, India Cements ₹14 crore, and Sun TV ₹100 crore. Congress redeemed ₹1,334.35 crore, while BJP encashed ₹6,986.5 crore, with Odisha's BJD and YSR Congress also cashing significant amounts. Trinamool Congress topped recipient donations at ₹1397 crore, followed by K Chandrashekar Rao's BRS at ₹1322 crore. The Supreme Court's recent ruling deemed the electoral bonds scheme unconstitutional.