Actor Raghava Lawrence has asked the public and his fans, "Should I enter politics? Do I have the eligibility?"

Following speculation about his contesting in the Trichy East by-election, Lawrence released an 18-minute video on social media.

He began with a short story and explained his journey from social service to political discussions.

Participated in the Jallikattu protests.

Responded to criticism from Seeman, which he considers his political starting point.

Supported Rajinikanth's decision not to enter politics, despite initial expectations.

Consulted his mother multiple times, who advised against politics until recently.

Lawrence highlighted his collaboration with actor Vijay, praising his hard work.

After seeing Vijay's political success, he told his mother that good leaders can earn people's trust.

His mother eventually said, "Do what you think is right."

Lawrence concluded by asking his fans and the public to comment on whether he should enter politics and if he is qualified.

He stated, "I will wait for your decision."

In the Rajya Sabha by-election held in Tamil Nadu, Congress candidate Praveen Chakravarthy has been officially declared elected unopposed.

According to the Assembly Secretariat's release, the vacancy arose after AIADMK leader and former minister C.V. Shanmugam resigned from his Rajya Sabha membership on May 7, 2026, following his victory in the Mayilam Assembly constituency. To fill this vacancy, a by-election was conducted in June 2026, with members of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly serving as electors.

Although the DMK, having the largest number of MLAs, was entitled to the seat, Chief Minister and DMK President Vijay announced that the Rajya Sabha seat would be allocated to their ally, the Congress party. Consequently, Praveen Chakravarthy was nominated and has now been declared elected unopposed.

This marks a significant moment in Tamil Nadu's coalition politics, reinforcing the DMK-Congress alliance in the state's representation at the national level.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described it as his “supreme privilege” to serve the nation continuously after becoming India’s longest‑serving elected Prime Minister.

Speaking at the NDA conclave in New Delhi, Modi expressed gratitude to alliance leaders and citizens, reflecting on his political journey and the importance of stable governance.

The gathering marked 12 years of the Modi government, with NDA partners celebrating the milestone as Modi surpassed the record previously held by Jawaharlal Nehru.

Modi thanked allies for their support, saying: “You have all made this day truly memorable for me. I am overwhelmed and deeply grateful.”

Recalling years of struggle, Modi said he never imagined reaching such a landmark:

“Chanting the mantra of ‘Chareveti, Chareveti’ (keep moving forward), I had never imagined this milestone would be reached.”

He described serving Mother India as a spiritual practice, made possible through the blessings of the people:

“For me, the people are the embodiment of God. This service has always been a collective ‘yagya’ with colleagues and partners contributing selflessly.”

Modi emphasized that political stability has been crucial for India’s progress, contrasting the instability before 2014 with the decisive governance of the NDA era.

“It is a testament to the maturity of the people that they have given me the opportunity to serve them for such a long time. Today, I bow to the great people of this nation.”

The conclave combined gratitude, reflection, and a renewed call for collective responsibility as the NDA marked both its 12‑year journey in power and a historic chapter in India’s political history.

At the INDIA alliance meeting in Delhi yesterday, the rise of the so‑called 'Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)' became a talking point among senior leaders. The online traction of the platform prompted questions about whether public faith in traditional Opposition parties is weakening.

Appearing virtually, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray urged alliance partners to reflect on why a digital phenomenon like CJP has gained such momentum. "Have people lost faith in us?" he reportedly asked, stressing that Opposition parties must remain active year‑round, not just during elections. Thackeray also underlined the need for the bloc to project a clear leader as its face.

National Conference leader Omar Abdullah noted that the Opposition should engage with CJP, remarking that "they must be doing something right. "Meanwhile, CPI‑ML (Liberation) general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya suggested extending solidarity to people's movements such as CJP, highlighting the importance of connecting with grassroots initiatives.

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