The BJP confirmed the decision on Monday, stating that the videos, though old, created a “negative perception” that could impact the party’s prospects in the upcoming elections. Party sources added that the candidate had become “a victim of social media trolls” and that the decision to drop him was taken after careful deliberation.

According to reports, the videos in question date back several years, during which the candidate had made remarks that were critical of Fadnavis’s policies. With the clips circulating widely online, local party workers and supporters expressed concern that the controversy could distract from the party’s campaign efforts.

Political analysts say the incident highlights the growing influence of social media on electoral politics. “Old content, even if years old, can surface at any time and influence public perception. Parties are increasingly cautious in screening candidates’ past statements,” said a Pune-based political analyst.

The BJP has announced a replacement candidate for the constituency and stated that the new nominee will represent the party’s commitment to unity and discipline. Meanwhile, opposition parties have criticized the BJP for what they called “internal disarray,” even as the party continues its campaign in Pune.

With the civic polls approaching, the party aims to maintain focus on voter outreach and development issues, while ensuring that social media controversies do not derail its electoral strategy.

The post Pune Polls: BJP Drops Candidate Over Old Anti-Fadnavis Videos appeared first on India Podcast.

Kishor accused BJP leaders of threatening him with a ₹100 crore defamation case. He hit back, saying such notices could not silence him. He also targeted state minister Ashok Choudhary, promising fresh disclosures against him. However, his use of the term “chori-chhakari” has drawn backlash. Critics allege it carried caste-based undertones, making the issue even more sensitive.

Several social media users and community leaders demanded an apology, calling his words offensive and divisive. They argue linking caste with theft is both unfair and insulting. As the Bihar elections heat up, the Prashant Kishor Bihar controversy highlights how strongly language can impact political battles.

Kishor insists his fight is for Bihar’s people, but the uproar shows his statements may have shifted the spotlight away from policies and development, and onto social tensions.

The post Prashant Kishor Faces Backlash Over Remarks appeared first on India Podcast.

Duncan criticized the statue on social media platform X, calling it a “false statue of a false Hindu God” and citing the Bible’s Exodus 20:3-4 against idol worship. His posts drew strong reactions from religious freedom supporters and Hindu organizations.

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) condemned Duncan’s remarks as “anti-Hindu and inflammatory,” urging the Texas Republican Party to take disciplinary action. Social media users highlighted that Hindu scriptures predate many other religions and urged respect for all faiths.

Unveiled in 2024, the Statue of Union honors Lord Hanuman and was envisioned by spiritual leader Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji. Beyond devotion, it symbolizes unity, harmony, and inclusiveness, attracting attention from the Indian-American community and interfaith groups across the country.

The post Texas GOP Leader Sparks Outrage Over Hanuman Statue appeared first on India Podcast.