The Lokpal has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra's alleged involvement in cash-for-query charges. The probe comes after the anti-corruption watchdog found "sufficient prima facie evidence" against Moitra, directing the CBI to investigate all aspects of the allegations within six months. Moitra is accused of providing access to her official MP ID to post questions on the Lok Sabha portal on her behalf in exchange for favors. The Lok Sabha ethics committee had recommended her expulsion for sharing her login credentials. Moitra denies the allegations.

Union Minister and BJP leader, Smriti Irani, rebuked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during the News18 Rising Bharat Summit, urging him to refrain from fighting in the name of religion. Irani, who defeated Gandhi in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Amethi, emphasized the importance of addressing issues rather than religious affiliations in politics. She highlighted the need for true leadership grounded in principles rather than fear of defeat. Irani also criticized Gandhi's alleged glorification of poverty and martyrdom, while recounting her own challenging journey in Amethi.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) are reportedly discussing a re-alliance for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in Punjab. Talks have been confirmed by leaders of both parties, with a decision expected after SAD's core committee meeting on March 22. Initial hesitations from SAD regarding unresolved issues like MSP and Sikh prisoners have been noted. The potential alliance raises concerns from opposition leaders, highlighting possible implications on farmers' issues and religious matters. In 2019, Congress won eight out of 13 seats in Punjab, while BJP and SAD secured two each, followed by AAP with one.

The BJP accuses Congress MP Rahul Gandhi of insulting Hindu culture but lacking the courage to criticize other religions. Reacting to Gandhi's 'Shakti' remark, BJP's Ravi Shankar Prasad claims Gandhi is influenced by anti-Hindu and Maoist ideologies. Gandhi's recent comment on 'Shakti' during a rally in Maharashtra stirred controversy, with the BJP alleging it was against Hinduism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also criticized Gandhi's remarks, stating the INDIA bloc aims to destroy 'Shakti'. Gandhi later clarified, asserting his comment wasn't religious. The BJP questions Gandhi's consistency in critiquing other faiths.

Former Indian Ambassador to the United States, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, has officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in New Delhi. Sandhu, who concluded his tenure as Ambassador in January, expressed his alignment with PM Modi's development agenda, particularly focusing on Amritsar. With his deep diplomatic experience spanning over three decades, Sandhu's potential candidacy from Amritsar in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections signals a strategic move by the BJP. Having served in key diplomatic roles globally, Sandhu brings a wealth of experience to his new political journey, aiming to contribute to the development of his hometown.

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.