Vote Chor Drive Loses Steam
The Congress party’s nationwide campaign, Vote Chor, Gaddi Chhod, aimed at accusing the BJP of electoral misconduct, has faltered soon after its October 15 launch in Madhya Pradesh. Despite intense planning, key leadership meetings, and district-level appointments, the campaign has seen no significant activity on the ground. Major events and marches remain absent, raising doubts about coordination and commitment. Prominent leaders, including Kamal Nath, have stayed disengaged, fueling speculation of internal disinterest. Although party functionaries blame the festive season for the slow pace and promise momentum post-Diwali, the lack of mobilisation highlights the Congress’ organisational weakness in the State. For now, the campaign remains more rhetoric than action, failing to make a meaningful public or political impact.
120 Daily Raids in Jammu
Despite a temporary pause in Operation Sindoor 1.0, the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police are continuing intensive anti-terror operations in Jammu’s forested regions, targeting foreign terrorists hiding in natural bunkers. IGP Jammu, Bhim Sen Tuti, revealed around 120 operations are conducted daily. Intelligence reports warn of armed terrorists near the LoC and International Border, with suspected movement of Pakistani troops, prompting heightened security along key areas like the Jammu-Pathankot highway. Top army commanders, including Lt-Generals Pratik Sharma and PK Mishra, have reviewed operational readiness in forward sectors. In Kashmir, IGP VK Birdi directed strengthened patrolling, intelligence-sharing, and coordination among security agencies to counter emerging threats and maintain high vigilance across vulnerable zones.
India upgrades Kabul mission
India has upgraded its technical mission in Kabul to a full embassy, signaling a renewed diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan after over four years of limited presence. The Ministry of External Affairs announced the move following talks between India’s EAM S Jaishankar
and Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Although India hasn’t formally recognised the Taliban Government, the embassy upgrade reflects a pragmatic approach to expand cooperation in development, humanitarian aid, and security. India has historically invested over $3 billion in Afghan projects.