India News Live Updates, 19 September 2026: Delhi University election counting begins amid tight security

Delhi University election counting commenced on Saturday, 19th September 2026, under stringent security measures, with the outcome determining the four-member central panel for the 2026-27 academic session. Approximately 39.77 percent of votes were cast on Friday. Over 2,000 law enforcement personnel were stationed around the counting center, located at the Multipurpose Hall of the University Sports Stadium in North Campus, and traffic restrictions were enforced in the vicinity.

This year's campaign centered on student welfare, campus facilities, hostel accommodations, and safety concerns. In Bengaluru, a 13-year-old boy was allegedly abducted and killed by his neighbor, Bhaskar Reddy, who was later arrested. The police are currently searching for the accomplice involved in the scheme to extort ransom from the victim's family.

In Kerala, customs officials intercepted 51.75 kg of ganja worth Rs 25.88 lakh at Palakkad railway station. The narcotics were concealed in five backpacks, which were discovered after intelligence reports regarding the transportation of illicit substances via train. Meanwhile, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary stated that his predecessor, Nitish Kumar, resigned from the chief minister's position voluntarily and was not compelled by the BJP.

Choudhary highlighted Kumar's decision to assume the role as a nod to Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's gesture in 2000, when Kumar became chief minister despite the BJP holding more seats. Choudhary also addressed criticisms from RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav regarding his appointment as a "selected" leader and outlined his primary priorities as chief minister—law and order, education, and industrial growth through economic development.