February 18, 2026

Madras High Court Denies Stay on ECI’s De-registration of Inactive Political Parties

The Madras High Court refused to stop the Election Commission from de-registering political parties that did not contest elections in the last six years. The court said no interim relief can be given as it would allow these parties to contest upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The final hearing is set for March 2026.

February 18, 2026

Union Contract Coverage Hits 16-Year High in 2025 Despite Trump-Era Challenges

Union contracts now cover 16.5 million US workers, reaching the highest level since 2009. Union membership rose despite federal attempts to cut collective bargaining.

February 18, 2026

Govt Reverses Election Postponement in Lancashire, Labour Fears 'Annihilation' in May Polls

The UK government canceled the planned delay of local elections in Lancashire, forcing seven councils to vote in May. Labour leaders warn of heavy losses, with Reform UK likely to dominate. The move follows a legal threat from Reform UK and disrupts local government reorganization efforts.

February 18, 2026

UK Graduates in Germany, Belgium Face Big Student Loan Repayment Hike from April

From April 2026, UK graduates living in Germany and Belgium will see a sharp rise in student loan repayments. The repayment threshold is slashed, forcing some to pay hundreds more yearly. Critics call the move “messed-up logic” as living costs have not fallen. This sparks fresh pressure on Rachel Reeves amid debates on student debt reforms.

February 18, 2026

DPAR restricts media movement in Vidhana Soudha citing security; BJP cries foul

The Karnataka DPAR has directed media to record official video statements only at a set spot near Vidhana Soudha’s western gate, banning following ministers inside. BJP leaders slam the move as a media freedom clampdown under 'security' pretext.