Wednesday, June, 03,2026

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Congress CM pick V D Satheesan greets "dawn of new era," hopes to turn around "vulnerable" Keralam fiscal status

New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram [India] : Ending over 10 days of suspense, the Congress on Thursday officially announced that VD Satheesean, whose leadership helped the UDF alliance sweep back to power in Keralam, has been appointed as the chief minister.

The six-time MLA from Peravoor, Vadassery Damodaran Satheesan, who turns 62 at the end of this month, had steered the United Democratic Front's (UDF) landslide victory in the 2026 Assembly Elections, where the alliance secured a thumping 102 seats in the 140-member house.
In his first response after the announcement, which comes after the declaration of the State Assembly results on May 4, Satheesan said, "I express sincere gratitude to my party, the AICC leadership."
"I am humbled by the trust placed in me by the party and the people. They entrusted me with a huge responsibility, and I am very thankful to team UDF and the workers. I dedicate my CMship to the people of Kerala. We have promised many things, and I think we can build a team that can change Keralam."
"This victory belongs to the grassroot workers who stood by us when we were in the wilderness," Satheesan told reporters, adding that "All AICC leaders called me and congratulated me".
Further, he pledged to usher in a "new era, a new Kerala" focusing on transforming the State's economic landscape, addressing its debt crisis.
"It will be a new era, a new Kerala that is our target, we are going through tough times, the fiscal situation of kerala is vulnerable, and we are hopeful of change," Satheesan said.
A lawyer by profession he had entered politics in 1996 and gradually built a reputation with his combative style and hard-hitting speeches. Active in student politics at the Mahatma Gandhi University, he served as secretary of the National Students' Union of India. He also held various responsibilities in the party and served as Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) vice president and All India Congress Committee (AICC) secretary.
Satheesan had snatched the Paravur Assembly seat in 2001 from the Communist Party of India and repeated the win in 2016. He had served as the Leader of the Opposition in the previous House has emerged as the public face of the UDF's comeback bid in the recent elections.
Satheesan had been wholly invested in the election had during the election campaign, declared that he would step away from active politics if the UDF alliance failed to secure a convincing mandate.
Satheesan also enjoyed the strong backing of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), the main ally of the Congress in this election.
While the Congress secured 63 seats its main ally, IUML won 22 seats ending the Left Democratic Front's (LDF) decade-long rule in the State.

IUML's Kerala State President chief Sayyid Sadikali Shihab Thangal addressing media persons after the Congress announcement said the Muslim League has welcomed the high command's decision. "We wish him all the best. like we said earlier we stand by the party decision. Satheesan has always talked about Team UDF and this government will be a team UDF for the next 5 years."
"The decision was made by respecting the people's verdict. The AICC high command took the final decision in this. They discussed in detail took the decision only after completing all democratic procedures. They took the views of the alliance partners multiple times. Even today, (Mallikarjun) Kharge called us," Thangal told ANI at Panakkad near Malappuram.
"Most proabably, the swearing in will take place on Monday and will soon announce the ministers from the League too," the IUML leader said.
With this announcement, Congress will proceed to form the government in the State, and a final decision is expected to be taken after the Congress Legislature Party meeting.
Hailing the party, the CM-designate said, "Congress is no ordinary party; there is a galaxy of leadership. They have given me feedback and advice and pulled me up when I was wrong."He added that the Congress leaders are set to meet Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, following a Legislative Party meeting, to claim the stake and form the UDF government in the state. He said, "We will meet the Governor and then will figure out when this is happening. A call will be taken; the ministers will be decided by the party. The party will come together and decide."
IUML leader PK Kunhalikutty, who won this election from the Malappuram constituency, said, "Further matters will be decided after knowing the details of the Congress legislature party meeting."
KPCC president Sunny Joseph announced that the Congress Legislature Party will hold a meeting at the KPCC headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram this evening.
"We extend all congratulations to V D Satheesan," he said adding that Congress leadership was headed to the Keralam capital this evening.
Earlier today, Congress leader Deepa Dasmunsi, addressing a press conference in the national capital said, "It has been decided to appoint VD Satheesan as the leader of the Congress Legislature Party"
Flanked by Jairam Ramesh and Ajay Maken, Mukul Wasnik, she said, "The Congress Legislature Party had met in Thiruvananthapuram on May 7th, 2026 and had unanimously resolved to authorise the Congress President to appoint the new leader of the CLP in the state of Keralam"
"Accordingly, the Congress President has held extensive discussions with the Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, the AICC Observers who had met with the newly elected MLAs on May 7, 2026 and many other leaders from the state, including MPs, former PCC Presidents have also been consulted,"

"Based on all these discussions, it has been decided that VD Satheesan be appointed as the leader of the CLP," Dasmunsi said.
Lok Sabha MP Venugopal and Congress general secretary (organisation), who was perceived to be a contender for the post along with Satheesan and senior leader Ramesh Chenithala, accepted the party's decision and congratulated Satheesan.
Addressing reporters in New Delhi, Venugopal said he will provide all support to the CM and the UDF government in Kerala.
Speaking about Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala, Satheesan said, "Both are my leaders and my seniors. I'm junior to them. They have helped a lot with this wonderful victory.
"As a General Secretary Organisation, he helped a lot in the elections. It is his state. He is an MP from Keralam and Ramesh Chennithala was the campaign committee chairman. He was my leader for a long time. I was with him. The party selected me to lead Keralam... There are many factors," he said.
"Why should the CLP meeting adopt a resolution to entrust the Congress president? Because the Congress president and other leaders have to discuss with many others. Many other factors should be considered..." Satheesan said.
Meanwhile, celebrations broke out at the residence of Satheesan in Ernakulam following the announcement.
Party workers erupted in joy, bursting firecrackers and distributing sweets outside the KPCC headquarters in Indira Bhawan in Thiruvananthapuram
The announcement of Satheesan as Congress CM-elect comes amidst Congress General Secretary (Organisation) KC Venugopal was seen leaving from the residence of Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi while AICC Keralam observer Ajay Maken was seen arriving at Congress office in the national capital.

The two observers of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), Congress General Secretary and MP Mukul Wasnik and the party's Rajya Sabha MP along with AICC General Secretary in-charge of Keralam Deepa Dasmunshi-who have been managing the leadership transition in Kerala following the 2026 assembly elections, arrived at Malikarjun Kharge's residence in New Delhi early today.
Yesterday, the announcement of the chief ministerial candidate was widely anticipated following a crucial meeting between Rahul Gandhi and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge at the latter's residence. However, party general secretary Jairam Ramesh told media persons that the decision on the chief ministerial nominee would be announced today. 

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Daily Astro

03-06-2026

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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03-06-2026