Morning Digest: 65% final turnout in Maharashtra, over 67% in Jharkhand; U.S. charges Gautam Adani in alleged bribery scheme, and more

Thu Nov 21 01:54:31 UTC 2024: ## India Votes, Adani Faces Charges, and International Developments Dominate Headlines

**New Delhi, November 21, 2024** – Maharashtra and Jharkhand concluded their Assembly elections today, with voter turnout exceeding expectations. Maharashtra saw a 65.02% turnout, up from 61.6% in 2019, while Jharkhand reached 67.59%, surpassing the first phase’s 66.65%. Mumbai’s turnout lagged behind the state average. Exit polls suggest a BJP-led alliance victory in both states, although some predict a closer race in Maharashtra.

Meanwhile, Gautam Adani, chairman of the Adani Group, and two other executives face charges from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for allegedly defrauding American investors and bribing officials in a multi-billion dollar scheme. India dismissed a Canadian media report alleging Prime Minister Modi’s knowledge of a plot to assassinate Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar as a “smear campaign.”

On the international front, Prime Minister Modi received Dominica’s highest national award for his contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also proposed seven pillars to strengthen ties between India and CARICOM during a summit in Guyana. The U.S. vetoed a UN resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza due to the lack of a simultaneous hostage release. Bangladesh cancelled the passports of 22 veteran security officials under investigation.

Domestically, five Uttar Pradesh police officers were suspended following allegations of misconduct with female voters. By-elections in Punjab, Kerala, and Uttarakhand also saw some minor incidents of violence. Delhi implemented work-from-home measures for non-essential government offices due to poor air quality. The CBSE announced class 10 and 12 board exam dates, starting February 15, 2025. President-elect Trump nominated Matt Whitaker as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Finally, the 55th International Film Festival of India commenced in Goa, and unusual rain in Perth impacted the pitch preparation for the first Border-Gavaskar Test.