While the BJP backs Nitish Kumar as chief minister, Chirag isn't hiding his readiness for the role, reports Aditi Phadnis.
The metro, it seems, is politics-proof -- even if it comes at a high cost.
When the country has been at war, the Opposition has buried its differences with the government, points out Aditi Phadnis.
'Right now, we have no relationship with Pakistan. And the relationship with China is not great.'
Many states are realising that hosting mega events puts the spotlight on them and raises their profile.
One fact is irrefutable: Nepal's recent political history tells us that the route to a return of monarchy cannot go through India despite friends in high places, asserts Aditi Phadnis.
Since the IPKF's withdrawal from Sri Lanka in March 1990, the LTTE's once-powerful influence in Tamil Nadu has faded.
'Will the LG be ready to rule with a light hand, having been vested with powers that amount to using a hammer to kill a fly?' asks Aditi Phadnis.
As the US gets tougher with visas, the prayers of US-bound devotees in India are getting more fervent, and their purse strings looser. Called Visa Hanuman temples (there are half a dozen all over India), some of them ask for a 'fee'.
'Women' as a political constituency appears to be an idea that has come of age. It is changing India in ways that we only dimly understand, asserts Aditi Phadnis.
India is trying hard to erase Indonesia's wariness about New Delhi, building security cooperation in the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean. If Indonesia decides to buy the Brahmos missile, it would further strengthen relations between the world's most populous nation and the most populous Islamic country.
There was more to him than he let on, asserts Aditi Phadnis.
The BJP may be in the Opposition in many states, but nowhere is it as divided as it is in Karnataka, points out Aditi Phadnis.
Beleaguered Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's political credibility will be tested by the outcome of the three by-elections. And cries that he must resign will become shriller if the Congress loses them.
'I don't believe there is an international conspiracy to swamp tribals in India or in Jharkhand.'
The strains are telling as old friends and new enemies face each other in the battlefield.
Mr Pradhan's understanding of realpolitik and organisational dynamics makes him the ultimate party man, notes Aditi Phadnis.
Lokmanya Tilak lived a life replete with contradictions, although he modified many of his positions later in life.
Since it was formed 58 years ago, Haryana has had Jat chief ministers for 33 of those.
Always interesting, DMK politics is going to get even more absorbing in the days to come, predicts Aditi Phadnis.
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