On this Special Report, anchor Akshita Nandagopal examines the political storm ignited by the announcement of the Padma Awards. While the centre hails them as the ‘People’s Padma’ based on merit, critics argue the selections are ‘electionising’ the honours, particularly in poll-bound states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. Akshita Nandagopal notes, ‘this recognition of merit is being read through a political lens, with critics accusing the centre of politicising’ the awards. The programme breaks down the numbers, revealing Maharashtra has the highest count, yet highlights controversial inclusions like V.S. Achuthanandan and Shibu Soren for Padma Vibhushan. Reporters Shibi Mole and Anagha Keshav join to discuss the impact in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, including the debate over Mammootty’s ‘long overdue’ Padma Bhushan and the recognition of IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti. The report concludes by celebrating the immense contributions of the awardees in culture, science, and public service despite the surrounding political showdown.
#PadmaAwards #CivilianHonours #MeritVsPolitics #AkshitaNandagopal #IndiaToday #PeoplesPadma #PadmaVibhushan #PadmaBhushan #KeralaPolitics #TamilNadu #Mammootty #VSAchuthanandan #BJP #IndianPolitics #Elections2026
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