July 5, 2026

March 2026

. JAMMU: Jammu Police arrested a drug peddler and seized from him around 262g heroin, worth approximately Rs 1.5 crore in the international market, along with Rs 1.5 lakh cash, a cellphone, and a weighing machine, on Saturday.A police naka team, led by PSI Rajan Choudhary, was deployed at Tutray Chowk Ring Road and spotted the suspect around 7.40pm. The accused tried to escape but was caught. Police identified him as Harpal Singh, a resident of Kathua district.Cops registered a case under NDPS Act at Miran Sahib PS. Further investigation was underway to unearth the forward and backward linkages of the nexus, police said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index With Highest Death Toll, Raises Global Alarm‘Was Tortured’: Wife Of Deceased PWC Official Seeks Bhullar’s Arrest Before Post-MortemSanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee CrashFirst China-Bound Russian Oil Tanker Reaches India After US Sanctions WaiverNarendra Modi Reviews Energy Security As Middle East Crisis Deepens8931 Days In Office: PM Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Head Of Govt Overtaking Pawan Kumar Chamling‘Zelenskyy Regime Core Exporter Of Instability’: Russia Reacts To NIA Arrest Of Ukrainians In India‘Selective Narrative’: 275 Ex-Officials, Judges Slam USCIRF Over ‘Disturbing’ Report On IndiaLPG Tanker ‘Pyxis Pioneer’ With Over 47,000 Tonnes Of Fuel From US Arrives At New Mangalore PortSeveral Injured In Dimona As Iranian Missile Hits Israel’s ‘Little India’; Videos Show Chaos123Photostories5 nutrient-rich vegetable peels you should never throw awayHow to make Dhaba-style Paneer Butter Masala at homeIn pics: India’s sea-based deterrent triad – INS Arihant, Arighaat & AridhamanTV friendships that defined a generation: From ‘Friends’ to ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ the bonds we never got overTOISA 2025 winner list (part 1): Mithali Raj, Shubman Gill, Harmanpreet Kaur, and more win bigConstant urge to pee but little output? A urologist explains what your body might be telling you5 factors to consider before investing in real estateTOISA 2025 celebrates India’s sporting excellence with Smriti Mandhana and Samrat Rana leading the honoursCan’t stop overthinking conversations before bed? What your brain is doing and how to break the cycleWho is Leena Nair? From Kolhapur to leading Chanel’s Rs 360 crore empire123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingBihar board result 2026Air India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

. JAMMU: Jammu Police arrested a drug peddler and seized from him around 262g heroin, worth approximately Rs 1.5 crore in the international market, along with Rs 1.5 lakh cash, a cellphone, and a weighing machine, on Saturday.A police naka team, led by PSI Rajan Choudhary, was deployed at Tutray Chowk Ring Road and spotted the suspect around 7.40pm. The accused tried to escape but was caught. Police identified him as Harpal Singh, a resident of Kathua district.Cops registered a case under NDPS Act at Miran Sahib PS. Further investigation was underway to unearth the forward and backward linkages of the nexus, police said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index With Highest Death Toll, Raises Global Alarm‘Was Tortured’: Wife Of Deceased PWC Official Seeks Bhullar’s Arrest Before Post-MortemSanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee CrashFirst China-Bound Russian Oil Tanker Reaches India After US Sanctions WaiverNarendra Modi Reviews Energy Security As Middle East Crisis Deepens8931 Days In Office: PM Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Head Of Govt Overtaking Pawan Kumar Chamling‘Zelenskyy Regime Core Exporter Of Instability’: Russia Reacts To NIA Arrest Of Ukrainians In India‘Selective Narrative’: 275 Ex-Officials, Judges Slam USCIRF Over ‘Disturbing’ Report On IndiaLPG Tanker ‘Pyxis Pioneer’ With Over 47,000 Tonnes Of Fuel From US Arrives At New Mangalore PortSeveral Injured In Dimona As Iranian Missile Hits Israel’s ‘Little India’; Videos Show Chaos123Photostories5 nutrient-rich vegetable peels you should never throw awayHow to make Dhaba-style Paneer Butter Masala at homeIn pics: India’s sea-based deterrent triad – INS Arihant, Arighaat & AridhamanTV friendships that defined a generation: From ‘Friends’ to ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ the bonds we never got overTOISA 2025 winner list (part 1): Mithali Raj, Shubman Gill, Harmanpreet Kaur, and more win bigConstant urge to pee but little output? A urologist explains what your body might be telling you5 factors to consider before investing in real estateTOISA 2025 celebrates India’s sporting excellence with Smriti Mandhana and Samrat Rana leading the honoursCan’t stop overthinking conversations before bed? What your brain is doing and how to break the cycleWho is Leena Nair? From Kolhapur to leading Chanel’s Rs 360 crore empire123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingBihar board result 2026Air India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

JAMMU: Jammu Police arrested a drug peddler and seized from him around 262g heroin, worth approximately Rs 1.5 crore in the international market, along with Rs 1.5 lakh cash, a cellphone, and a weighing machine, on Saturday.A police naka team, led by PSI Rajan Choudhary, was deployed at Tutray Chowk Ring Road and spotted the…

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Steven Knight explains the ending of ‘Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man’ – ‘I thought, to end it, he’s gonna have to go’

Steven Knight explains the ending of ‘Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man’ – ‘I thought, to end it, he’s gonna have to go’

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Steven Knight, the visionary behind ‘Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man’, sheds light on the predetermined downfall of Tommy Shelby, which was always a cornerstone of the narrative. He crafted Shelby as a man who sees death not as an end but as a compelling challenge, a trait Knight dubbed his ultimate superpower. Spoiler warnings: This…

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Iran war not to end soon? Treasury’s Bessent says US has ‘plenty of money to fund this war’

Iran war not to end soon? Treasury’s Bessent says US has ‘plenty of money to fund this war’

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

US treasury secretary Scott Bessent on Sunday said the United States has “plenty of money to fund” its war against Iran, asserting that President Donald Trump is keeping “all options on the table” amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.Speaking to NBC News, Bessent defended the administration’s actions, saying Trump acted within his legal authority. “President…

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Representative photo (PTI) NEW DELHI: Opposition MPs and transgender rights activists on Sunday called for the withdrawal of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, saying the proposed changes could dilute the rights of the transgender community.The demand was raised during a Jan Sunwai (public discussion) held at the Press Club of India in New Delhi, where participants expressed concerns over the potential impact of the Bill on transgender persons.”If the government is not willing to withdraw it, then it should be referred to the Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment for reconsideration,” NCP spokesperson Anish Gawande told PTI. Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit said the Bill should be referred to a parliamentary standing committee for a detailed review. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran vows tit-for-tat strike after Trump’s 48hr ultimatum, threatens to hit US-Israel energy facilityWatch: Missile strike rocks Israel’s ‘Little India’ as Iran attack injures over 40; videos show chaosOver 100 injured in Israel amid Iran’s missile attack; Netanyahu calls it ‘difficult evening in battle for future’He said it is the responsibility of the state and the government to respect individuals for who they are.Dikshit also stressed that people should first be recognised and treated as human beings.”In our society, identity is often attacked repeatedly. The state and institutions must first treat every person as a human being, and then as a citizen. The duty of the state and Parliament is to respect individuals as they are — their identity, their choices and their sense of self — and stand by them with dignity,” Dikshit added. RJD Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha said the issue reflects a clash between constitutional morality and majoritarianism, stressing that the government should be guided by constitutional values rather than numerical strength in Parliament.He also called for a collective strategy within Parliament, urging parties across political lines to build consensus and challenge such measures.”We need to come together, both inside and outside Parliament, and build a coordinated strategy to oppose such measures,” Jha said.Congress Rajya Sabha MP Renuka Chowdhury said the transgender community would continue to resist the proposed changes and remain steadfast in its fight to protect its rights.”Even if the Bill is passed in Parliament, the fight will not end. We will continue to raise our voice and stand with the community. We are not going to be afraid. This is not an easy journey, but we have to fight it collectively,” Chowdhury said.Transgender rights activist Grace Banu pointed to the community’s long-standing struggle for recognition and dignity, warning that the proposed changes risk reversing years of hard-won progress.”For decades, we have been fighting to define our own identity. After years of struggle, self-identification was recognised, and now it is being taken away,” Banu said. “Even today, many in our community face abuse within families, social exclusion and are pushed into marginalised livelihoods,” she added. Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Virendra Kumar introduced the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on March 13.The Bill seeks to provide a precise definition of the term “transgender” and proposes graded punishments based on the severity of harm inflicted on transgender persons. It also states that a transgender person “shall not include, nor shall ever have been so included, persons with different sexual orientations and self-perceived sexual identities.”The proposed amendment to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, has drawn criticism from members of the community, who argue that it departs from the principles laid down by the Supreme Court in the landmark National Legal Services Authority vs Union of India judgment.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index With Highest Death Toll, Raises Global Alarm‘Was Tortured’: Wife Of Deceased PWC Official Seeks Bhullar’s Arrest Before Post-MortemSanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee CrashFirst China-Bound Russian Oil Tanker Reaches India After US Sanctions WaiverNarendra Modi Reviews Energy Security As Middle East Crisis Deepens8931 Days In Office: PM Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Head Of Govt Overtaking Pawan Kumar Chamling‘Zelenskyy Regime Core Exporter Of Instability’: Russia Reacts To NIA Arrest Of Ukrainians In India‘Selective Narrative’: 275 Ex-Officials, Judges Slam USCIRF Over ‘Disturbing’ Report On IndiaLPG Tanker ‘Pyxis Pioneer’ With Over 47,000 Tonnes Of Fuel From US Arrives At New Mangalore PortSeveral Injured In Dimona As Iranian Missile Hits Israel’s ‘Little India’; Videos Show Chaos123PhotostoriesIn pics: India’s sea-based deterrent triad – Arihant-class SSBN fleet; INS Arihant, INS Arighaat & INS AridhamanTV friendships that defined a generation: From ‘Friends’ to ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ the bonds we never got overTOISA 2025 winner list (part 1): Mithali Raj, Shubman Gill, Harmanpreet Kaur, and more win bigConstant urge to pee but little output? A urologist explains what your body might be telling you5 factors to consider before investing in real estateTOISA 2025 celebrates India’s sporting excellence with Smriti Mandhana and Samrat Rana leading the honoursCan’t stop overthinking conversations before bed? What your brain is doing and how to break the cycleWho is Leena Nair? From Kolhapur to leading Chanel’s Rs 360 crore empireCoco, Julian, Marina and more: Meet the kids of the ‘Friends’ castInside Azim Premji’s ₹350 crore minimalist home in Bengaluru123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingBihar board result 2026Air India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

Representative photo (PTI) NEW DELHI: Opposition MPs and transgender rights activists on Sunday called for the withdrawal of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, saying the proposed changes could dilute the rights of the transgender community.The demand was raised during a Jan Sunwai (public discussion) held at the Press Club of India in New Delhi, where participants expressed concerns over the potential impact of the Bill on transgender persons.”If the government is not willing to withdraw it, then it should be referred to the Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment for reconsideration,” NCP spokesperson Anish Gawande told PTI. Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit said the Bill should be referred to a parliamentary standing committee for a detailed review. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran vows tit-for-tat strike after Trump’s 48hr ultimatum, threatens to hit US-Israel energy facilityWatch: Missile strike rocks Israel’s ‘Little India’ as Iran attack injures over 40; videos show chaosOver 100 injured in Israel amid Iran’s missile attack; Netanyahu calls it ‘difficult evening in battle for future’He said it is the responsibility of the state and the government to respect individuals for who they are.Dikshit also stressed that people should first be recognised and treated as human beings.”In our society, identity is often attacked repeatedly. The state and institutions must first treat every person as a human being, and then as a citizen. The duty of the state and Parliament is to respect individuals as they are — their identity, their choices and their sense of self — and stand by them with dignity,” Dikshit added. RJD Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha said the issue reflects a clash between constitutional morality and majoritarianism, stressing that the government should be guided by constitutional values rather than numerical strength in Parliament.He also called for a collective strategy within Parliament, urging parties across political lines to build consensus and challenge such measures.”We need to come together, both inside and outside Parliament, and build a coordinated strategy to oppose such measures,” Jha said.Congress Rajya Sabha MP Renuka Chowdhury said the transgender community would continue to resist the proposed changes and remain steadfast in its fight to protect its rights.”Even if the Bill is passed in Parliament, the fight will not end. We will continue to raise our voice and stand with the community. We are not going to be afraid. This is not an easy journey, but we have to fight it collectively,” Chowdhury said.Transgender rights activist Grace Banu pointed to the community’s long-standing struggle for recognition and dignity, warning that the proposed changes risk reversing years of hard-won progress.”For decades, we have been fighting to define our own identity. After years of struggle, self-identification was recognised, and now it is being taken away,” Banu said. “Even today, many in our community face abuse within families, social exclusion and are pushed into marginalised livelihoods,” she added. Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Virendra Kumar introduced the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on March 13.The Bill seeks to provide a precise definition of the term “transgender” and proposes graded punishments based on the severity of harm inflicted on transgender persons. It also states that a transgender person “shall not include, nor shall ever have been so included, persons with different sexual orientations and self-perceived sexual identities.”The proposed amendment to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, has drawn criticism from members of the community, who argue that it departs from the principles laid down by the Supreme Court in the landmark National Legal Services Authority vs Union of India judgment.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index With Highest Death Toll, Raises Global Alarm‘Was Tortured’: Wife Of Deceased PWC Official Seeks Bhullar’s Arrest Before Post-MortemSanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee CrashFirst China-Bound Russian Oil Tanker Reaches India After US Sanctions WaiverNarendra Modi Reviews Energy Security As Middle East Crisis Deepens8931 Days In Office: PM Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Head Of Govt Overtaking Pawan Kumar Chamling‘Zelenskyy Regime Core Exporter Of Instability’: Russia Reacts To NIA Arrest Of Ukrainians In India‘Selective Narrative’: 275 Ex-Officials, Judges Slam USCIRF Over ‘Disturbing’ Report On IndiaLPG Tanker ‘Pyxis Pioneer’ With Over 47,000 Tonnes Of Fuel From US Arrives At New Mangalore PortSeveral Injured In Dimona As Iranian Missile Hits Israel’s ‘Little India’; Videos Show Chaos123PhotostoriesIn pics: India’s sea-based deterrent triad – Arihant-class SSBN fleet; INS Arihant, INS Arighaat & INS AridhamanTV friendships that defined a generation: From ‘Friends’ to ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ the bonds we never got overTOISA 2025 winner list (part 1): Mithali Raj, Shubman Gill, Harmanpreet Kaur, and more win bigConstant urge to pee but little output? A urologist explains what your body might be telling you5 factors to consider before investing in real estateTOISA 2025 celebrates India’s sporting excellence with Smriti Mandhana and Samrat Rana leading the honoursCan’t stop overthinking conversations before bed? What your brain is doing and how to break the cycleWho is Leena Nair? From Kolhapur to leading Chanel’s Rs 360 crore empireCoco, Julian, Marina and more: Meet the kids of the ‘Friends’ castInside Azim Premji’s ₹350 crore minimalist home in Bengaluru123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingBihar board result 2026Air India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Representative photo (PTI) NEW DELHI: Opposition MPs and transgender rights activists on Sunday called for the withdrawal of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Amendment Bill, 2026, saying the proposed changes could dilute the rights of the transgender community.The demand was raised during a Jan Sunwai (public discussion) held at the Press Club of India…

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Deepika Padukone has a ‘proud wife’ smile as fans mob Ranveer Singh post ‘Dhurandhar 2’ success, couple steps out for a lunch date – VIDEO

Deepika Padukone has a ‘proud wife’ smile as fans mob Ranveer Singh post ‘Dhurandhar 2’ success, couple steps out for a lunch date – VIDEO

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Internet is abuzz with only one topic at the moment which is ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’. Fans cannot stop praising the movie and memes, viral videos and theories have taken over social media, many also criticised it by calling it ‘violent’. Amidst the success of the film, Ranveer Singh stepped out for a lunch date with…

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2020 Delhi riots case: Sharjeel Imam returns home after 6 years on interim bail for brother’s wedding

2020 Delhi riots case: Sharjeel Imam returns home after 6 years on interim bail for brother’s wedding

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

JEHANABAD: Sharjeel Imam, an accused in the “larger conspiracy” case linked to the 2020 Delhi riots, returned to his ancestral village Kako after six years to attend the wedding of his younger brother, Muzzammil Imam, and spend time with his ailing mother. He arrived after being granted 10-day interim bail by a Delhi court.Muzzammil Imam…

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KOLKATA: With the battle lines for the 2026 West Bengal assembly polls steadily sharpening, the Trinamool Congress on Sunday rolled out an animated teaser titled ‘Fighter Didi’, projecting chief minister Mamata Banerjee as the last line of defence for the Bengali identity against what the party calls “outsider forces”.The slick 16-minute video, divided into episodes, released on the party’s social media platforms, blends political messaging with cinematic symbolism- dark clouds gathering over Bengal, worried citizens looking skyward, and a looming silhouette carrying a saffron flag, an unmistakable dig at the BJP. Watch Eid Politics Heats Up Bengal: Mamata Banerjee Attacks BJP, Suvendu Adhikari Pushes Sanatan Narrative If the opening frames evoke a state under threat, the closing sequence is designed to deliver the punchline- a resolute Banerjee emerging as a combative figure, flanked by imagery of Goddess Durga and a Royal Bengal Tiger, before the screen flashes the slogan ‘Fighter Didi’.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran vows tit-for-tat strike after Trump’s 48hr ultimatum, threatens to hit US-Israel energy facilityWatch: Missile strike rocks Israel’s ‘Little India’ as Iran attack injures over 40; videos show chaosOver 100 injured in Israel amid Iran’s missile attack; Netanyahu calls it ‘difficult evening in battle for future’The teaser is the second instalment of the TMC’s campaign video series and comes days after the party unveiled its “10 pledges” and released a candidate list for 291 seats, signalling that the ruling party has begun shifting gears for what promises to be one of the fiercest electoral battles in the state’s recent political history.At the heart of the teaser lies a theme the TMC has increasingly foregrounded in recent years – the defence of Bengali identity.In one of the striking frames, a giant hand stamps the word “Bangladeshi” on official-looking documents as Bengali text flashes across the screen, warning against attempts to “snatch away identity”.The imagery is widely seen as a swipe at the BJP’s push for the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) -the issues the TMC has repeatedly framed as existential threats to Bengalis and migrants in the state.The teaser also dips into Bengal’s cultural psyche – a terrain where Banerjee has often sought to counter the BJP’s aggressive Hindutva narrative with a blend of regional pride and cultural symbolism.Animated sequences show portraits of Bengal’s icons, such as Rabindranath Tagore and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, being vandalised, while a statue of Tagore is shown collapsing – an apparent reference to past political flashpoints that the TMC has used to accuse the BJP of disrespecting Bengal’s heritage.Another character, visually resembling a prominent BJP leader with glowing eyes and shadowy enforcers behind him, appears as the antagonist in the sequence – reinforcing the narrative of an external political force threatening the state’s cultural fabric.Political observers said the teaser underscores a campaign template that has served Banerjee well in the past- turning elections into a binary contest between “Bengal’s daughter” and “Delhi’s outsiders”.The formula played a decisive role in the 2021 assembly elections, when Banerjee defied a massive BJP campaign blitz to secure a third consecutive term, riding a wave of Bengali sub-nationalism and welfare politics.With the BJP once again positioning itself as the principal challenger in the 2026 contest, the TMC appears keen to revive that narrative early in the campaign cycle.Within the party, the ‘Fighter Didi’ pitch is being seen as more than just campaign branding.Strategists said the idea is to frame Banerjee not merely as an incumbent seeking re-election but as a combative protector of Bengal’s political and cultural autonomy – a narrative aimed at consolidating the TMC’s core support base while energising cadres ahead of the long election grind.The message is blunt: the coming polls are not just another electoral contest but, in the TMC’s telling, a battle to defend Bengal itself.If the teaser is any indication, the 2026 assembly elections are likely to be fought not only on governance and welfare but also on the emotive terrain of identity, culture and regional pride themes that have repeatedly shaped the state’s political battles.And in that storyline, the TMC is making it clear who it wants cast as the protagonist.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index With Highest Death Toll, Raises Global Alarm‘Was Tortured’: Wife Of Deceased PWC Official Seeks Bhullar’s Arrest Before Post-MortemSanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee CrashFirst China-Bound Russian Oil Tanker Reaches India After US Sanctions WaiverNarendra Modi Reviews Energy Security As Middle East Crisis Deepens8931 Days In Office: PM Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Head Of Govt Overtaking Pawan Kumar Chamling‘Zelenskyy Regime Core Exporter Of Instability’: Russia Reacts To NIA Arrest Of Ukrainians In India‘Selective Narrative’: 275 Ex-Officials, Judges Slam USCIRF Over ‘Disturbing’ Report On IndiaLPG Tanker ‘Pyxis Pioneer’ With Over 47,000 Tonnes Of Fuel From US Arrives At New Mangalore PortSeveral Injured In Dimona As Iranian Missile Hits Israel’s ‘Little India’; Videos Show Chaos123PhotostoriesIn pics: India’s sea-based deterrent triad – INS Arihant, Arighaat & AridhamanTV friendships that defined a generation: From ‘Friends’ to ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ the bonds we never got overTOISA 2025 winner list (part 1): Mithali Raj, Shubman Gill, Harmanpreet Kaur, and more win bigConstant urge to pee but little output? A urologist explains what your body might be telling you5 factors to consider before investing in real estate5 common marriage mistakes that are major causes of divorce around the worldTOISA 2025 celebrates India’s sporting excellence with Smriti Mandhana and Samrat Rana leading the honoursCan’t stop overthinking conversations before bed? What your brain is doing and how to break the cycleWho is Leena Nair? From Kolhapur to leading Chanel’s Rs 360 crore empireCoco, Julian, Marina and more: Meet the kids of the ‘Friends’ cast123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingBihar board result 2026Air India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

KOLKATA: With the battle lines for the 2026 West Bengal assembly polls steadily sharpening, the Trinamool Congress on Sunday rolled out an animated teaser titled ‘Fighter Didi’, projecting chief minister Mamata Banerjee as the last line of defence for the Bengali identity against what the party calls “outsider forces”.The slick 16-minute video, divided into episodes, released on the party’s social media platforms, blends political messaging with cinematic symbolism- dark clouds gathering over Bengal, worried citizens looking skyward, and a looming silhouette carrying a saffron flag, an unmistakable dig at the BJP. Watch Eid Politics Heats Up Bengal: Mamata Banerjee Attacks BJP, Suvendu Adhikari Pushes Sanatan Narrative If the opening frames evoke a state under threat, the closing sequence is designed to deliver the punchline- a resolute Banerjee emerging as a combative figure, flanked by imagery of Goddess Durga and a Royal Bengal Tiger, before the screen flashes the slogan ‘Fighter Didi’.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran vows tit-for-tat strike after Trump’s 48hr ultimatum, threatens to hit US-Israel energy facilityWatch: Missile strike rocks Israel’s ‘Little India’ as Iran attack injures over 40; videos show chaosOver 100 injured in Israel amid Iran’s missile attack; Netanyahu calls it ‘difficult evening in battle for future’The teaser is the second instalment of the TMC’s campaign video series and comes days after the party unveiled its “10 pledges” and released a candidate list for 291 seats, signalling that the ruling party has begun shifting gears for what promises to be one of the fiercest electoral battles in the state’s recent political history.At the heart of the teaser lies a theme the TMC has increasingly foregrounded in recent years – the defence of Bengali identity.In one of the striking frames, a giant hand stamps the word “Bangladeshi” on official-looking documents as Bengali text flashes across the screen, warning against attempts to “snatch away identity”.The imagery is widely seen as a swipe at the BJP’s push for the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) -the issues the TMC has repeatedly framed as existential threats to Bengalis and migrants in the state.The teaser also dips into Bengal’s cultural psyche – a terrain where Banerjee has often sought to counter the BJP’s aggressive Hindutva narrative with a blend of regional pride and cultural symbolism.Animated sequences show portraits of Bengal’s icons, such as Rabindranath Tagore and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, being vandalised, while a statue of Tagore is shown collapsing – an apparent reference to past political flashpoints that the TMC has used to accuse the BJP of disrespecting Bengal’s heritage.Another character, visually resembling a prominent BJP leader with glowing eyes and shadowy enforcers behind him, appears as the antagonist in the sequence – reinforcing the narrative of an external political force threatening the state’s cultural fabric.Political observers said the teaser underscores a campaign template that has served Banerjee well in the past- turning elections into a binary contest between “Bengal’s daughter” and “Delhi’s outsiders”.The formula played a decisive role in the 2021 assembly elections, when Banerjee defied a massive BJP campaign blitz to secure a third consecutive term, riding a wave of Bengali sub-nationalism and welfare politics.With the BJP once again positioning itself as the principal challenger in the 2026 contest, the TMC appears keen to revive that narrative early in the campaign cycle.Within the party, the ‘Fighter Didi’ pitch is being seen as more than just campaign branding.Strategists said the idea is to frame Banerjee not merely as an incumbent seeking re-election but as a combative protector of Bengal’s political and cultural autonomy – a narrative aimed at consolidating the TMC’s core support base while energising cadres ahead of the long election grind.The message is blunt: the coming polls are not just another electoral contest but, in the TMC’s telling, a battle to defend Bengal itself.If the teaser is any indication, the 2026 assembly elections are likely to be fought not only on governance and welfare but also on the emotive terrain of identity, culture and regional pride themes that have repeatedly shaped the state’s political battles.And in that storyline, the TMC is making it clear who it wants cast as the protagonist.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index With Highest Death Toll, Raises Global Alarm‘Was Tortured’: Wife Of Deceased PWC Official Seeks Bhullar’s Arrest Before Post-MortemSanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee CrashFirst China-Bound Russian Oil Tanker Reaches India After US Sanctions WaiverNarendra Modi Reviews Energy Security As Middle East Crisis Deepens8931 Days In Office: PM Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Head Of Govt Overtaking Pawan Kumar Chamling‘Zelenskyy Regime Core Exporter Of Instability’: Russia Reacts To NIA Arrest Of Ukrainians In India‘Selective Narrative’: 275 Ex-Officials, Judges Slam USCIRF Over ‘Disturbing’ Report On IndiaLPG Tanker ‘Pyxis Pioneer’ With Over 47,000 Tonnes Of Fuel From US Arrives At New Mangalore PortSeveral Injured In Dimona As Iranian Missile Hits Israel’s ‘Little India’; Videos Show Chaos123PhotostoriesIn pics: India’s sea-based deterrent triad – INS Arihant, Arighaat & AridhamanTV friendships that defined a generation: From ‘Friends’ to ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ the bonds we never got overTOISA 2025 winner list (part 1): Mithali Raj, Shubman Gill, Harmanpreet Kaur, and more win bigConstant urge to pee but little output? 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Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

KOLKATA: With the battle lines for the 2026 West Bengal assembly polls steadily sharpening, the Trinamool Congress on Sunday rolled out an animated teaser titled ‘Fighter Didi’, projecting chief minister Mamata Banerjee as the last line of defence for the Bengali identity against what the party calls “outsider forces”.The slick 16-minute video, divided into episodes,…

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Updated: Mar 22, 2026, 23:06 IST

Updated: Mar 22, 2026, 23:06 IST

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

India’s Koneru Humpy (PTI Photo) Top Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy has announced her decision to withdraw from the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament, citing personal safety and well-being as her primary concern. The tournament, which begins on March 28 at the Cap St Georges Hotel and Resort in Pegeia, Cyprus, is the only pathway to the…

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Quote of the day by Robin Williams: ‘Words and ideas can change the world’

Quote of the day by Robin Williams: ‘Words and ideas can change the world’

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Honoring the brilliant Robin Williams, this tribute delves into his unforgettable portrayal of John Keating in ‘Dead Poets Society’, alongside the powerful mantra, “Words and ideas can change the world. Robin Williams is remembered as one of the most versatile and beloved actors of all time. His range, which started from comedy, could smoothly transition…

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‘Who knows surprise better than Japan?’ Trump’s Pearl Harbor remark sparks unease in Tokyo during Iran war statement

‘Who knows surprise better than Japan?’ Trump’s Pearl Harbor remark sparks unease in Tokyo during Iran war statement

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

Japan saw embarrassment, confusion and unease on Saturday after President Donald Trump cited Japan’s 1941 attack on US forces at Pearl Harbor to justify his secrecy before launching the war against Iran, with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi seated beside him in Washington.The discomfort was compounded by the sensitivity surrounding public comments on Pearl Harbor…

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ANI file photo NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday criticised the Narendra Modi-led Union government over the depreciation of the Indian rupee, questioning the Prime Minister’s ability to lead the country.Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Raut recalled a remark made by PM Modi during his tenure as Gujarat chief minister, in which he had said that “when the rupee falls, the country’s credibility and reputation fall.” Watch Sanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee Crash Raut accused the Prime Minister of focusing on election campaigning instead of addressing rising inflation and the weakening currency.”There will be a century…Abki baar, 100 ke paar. Where is Modi ji? He is in West Bengal, preparing for President’s Rule to defeat Mamata Banerjee. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran vows tit-for-tat strike after Trump’s 48hr ultimatum, threatens to hit US-Israel energy facilityWatch: Missile strike rocks Israel’s ‘Little India’ as Iran attack injures over 40; videos show chaosOver 100 injured in Israel amid Iran’s missile attack; Netanyahu calls it ‘difficult evening in battle for future’Modi ji and Shah ji are attempting to do ‘khela’ in West Bengal, and the value of the rupee is declining…Modi ji was saying that when the value of the rupee falls, the country’s prestige falls. What is it which is falling now?” Raut said.After the press conference, Raut dismissed the ongoing tensions in West Asia as a factor behind the rupee’s decline, asserting that the currency has been on a downward trajectory since PM Modi assumed office.”The government is silent, and it will remain silent. When the Rupee falls, it is not just the currency that declines, but it is the nation’s credibility and prestige also fall… Given the way India’s economy has faltered and the manner in which the Rupee is plummeting day after day, I feel that Narendra Modi is no longer capable of leading the nation. Yes, there is a war today, but there wasn’t a war yesterday, was there? The Rupee began its downward spiral precisely when PM Modi became the Prime Minister. The PM is still busy in the election campaign and does not care about the rupee. I have only one thing to tell him: ‘Modi Ji, ab jhola uthao or chale jaiye,” Raut added, as cited by ANI. His remarks came after the rupee fell below the 93 mark against the US dollar on Friday, indicating sustained pressure on the domestic currency.On Saturday, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the Centre over the weakening Indian rupee and the rise in industrial fuel prices amid the escalating conflict in West Asia.Raising concerns about the economic outlook, Rahul warned of possible inflationary pressures and accused the Narendra Modi-led government of relying on “empty rhetoric” instead of outlining a concrete economic strategy.”The rupee weakening against the dollar and heading towards 100, along with a sharp rise in industrial fuel prices–these aren’t just numbers; they’re clear signals of the inflation to come. The Modi government has neither direction nor strategy–just empty rhetoric. The question isn’t what the government is saying–it’s what’s left on your plate,” Rahul Gandhi said through a post on X.Forex traders said the Indian rupee is facing significant pressure due to surging crude oil prices and a growing shift toward risk aversion, which has dampened investor sentiment, as cited by PTI. They added that rising geopolitical uncertainties are pushing energy costs higher, a trend that could widen the trade deficit and further fuel inflationary pressures.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index With Highest Death Toll, Raises Global Alarm‘Was Tortured’: Wife Of Deceased PWC Official Seeks Bhullar’s Arrest Before Post-MortemSanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee CrashFirst China-Bound Russian Oil Tanker Reaches India After US Sanctions WaiverNarendra Modi Reviews Energy Security As Middle East Crisis Deepens8931 Days In Office: PM Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Head Of Govt Overtaking Pawan Kumar Chamling‘Zelenskyy Regime Core Exporter Of Instability’: Russia Reacts To NIA Arrest Of Ukrainians In India‘Selective Narrative’: 275 Ex-Officials, Judges Slam USCIRF Over ‘Disturbing’ Report On IndiaLPG Tanker ‘Pyxis Pioneer’ With Over 47,000 Tonnes Of Fuel From US Arrives At New Mangalore PortSeveral Injured In Dimona As Iranian Missile Hits Israel’s ‘Little India’; Videos Show Chaos123PhotostoriesIn pics: India’s sea-based deterrent triad – Arihant-class SSBN fleet; INS Arihant, INS Arighaat & INS AridhamanTV friendships that defined a generation: From ‘Friends’ to ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ the bonds we never got overTOISA 2025 winner list (part 1): Mithali Raj, Shubman Gill, Harmanpreet Kaur, and more win bigConstant urge to pee but little output? A urologist explains what your body might be telling you5 factors to consider before investing in real estate5 common marriage mistakes that are major causes of divorce around the worldTOISA 2025 celebrates India’s sporting excellence with Smriti Mandhana and Samrat Rana leading the honoursCan’t stop overthinking conversations before bed? What your brain is doing and how to break the cycleWho is Leena Nair? From Kolhapur to leading Chanel’s Rs 360 crore empireCoco, Julian, Marina and more: Meet the kids of the ‘Friends’ cast123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingBihar board result 2026Air India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

ANI file photo NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday criticised the Narendra Modi-led Union government over the depreciation of the Indian rupee, questioning the Prime Minister’s ability to lead the country.Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Raut recalled a remark made by PM Modi during his tenure as Gujarat chief minister, in which he had said that “when the rupee falls, the country’s credibility and reputation fall.” Watch Sanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee Crash Raut accused the Prime Minister of focusing on election campaigning instead of addressing rising inflation and the weakening currency.”There will be a century…Abki baar, 100 ke paar. Where is Modi ji? He is in West Bengal, preparing for President’s Rule to defeat Mamata Banerjee. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran vows tit-for-tat strike after Trump’s 48hr ultimatum, threatens to hit US-Israel energy facilityWatch: Missile strike rocks Israel’s ‘Little India’ as Iran attack injures over 40; videos show chaosOver 100 injured in Israel amid Iran’s missile attack; Netanyahu calls it ‘difficult evening in battle for future’Modi ji and Shah ji are attempting to do ‘khela’ in West Bengal, and the value of the rupee is declining…Modi ji was saying that when the value of the rupee falls, the country’s prestige falls. What is it which is falling now?” Raut said.After the press conference, Raut dismissed the ongoing tensions in West Asia as a factor behind the rupee’s decline, asserting that the currency has been on a downward trajectory since PM Modi assumed office.”The government is silent, and it will remain silent. When the Rupee falls, it is not just the currency that declines, but it is the nation’s credibility and prestige also fall… Given the way India’s economy has faltered and the manner in which the Rupee is plummeting day after day, I feel that Narendra Modi is no longer capable of leading the nation. Yes, there is a war today, but there wasn’t a war yesterday, was there? The Rupee began its downward spiral precisely when PM Modi became the Prime Minister. The PM is still busy in the election campaign and does not care about the rupee. I have only one thing to tell him: ‘Modi Ji, ab jhola uthao or chale jaiye,” Raut added, as cited by ANI. His remarks came after the rupee fell below the 93 mark against the US dollar on Friday, indicating sustained pressure on the domestic currency.On Saturday, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the Centre over the weakening Indian rupee and the rise in industrial fuel prices amid the escalating conflict in West Asia.Raising concerns about the economic outlook, Rahul warned of possible inflationary pressures and accused the Narendra Modi-led government of relying on “empty rhetoric” instead of outlining a concrete economic strategy.”The rupee weakening against the dollar and heading towards 100, along with a sharp rise in industrial fuel prices–these aren’t just numbers; they’re clear signals of the inflation to come. The Modi government has neither direction nor strategy–just empty rhetoric. The question isn’t what the government is saying–it’s what’s left on your plate,” Rahul Gandhi said through a post on X.Forex traders said the Indian rupee is facing significant pressure due to surging crude oil prices and a growing shift toward risk aversion, which has dampened investor sentiment, as cited by PTI. They added that rising geopolitical uncertainties are pushing energy costs higher, a trend that could widen the trade deficit and further fuel inflationary pressures.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index With Highest Death Toll, Raises Global Alarm‘Was Tortured’: Wife Of Deceased PWC Official Seeks Bhullar’s Arrest Before Post-MortemSanjay Raut Fires ‘Jhola Uthaiye’ Salvo At Narendra Modi Over inflation, Rupee CrashFirst China-Bound Russian Oil Tanker Reaches India After US Sanctions WaiverNarendra Modi Reviews Energy Security As Middle East Crisis Deepens8931 Days In Office: PM Modi Becomes Longest-Serving Head Of Govt Overtaking Pawan Kumar Chamling‘Zelenskyy Regime Core Exporter Of Instability’: Russia Reacts To NIA Arrest Of Ukrainians In India‘Selective Narrative’: 275 Ex-Officials, Judges Slam USCIRF Over ‘Disturbing’ Report On IndiaLPG Tanker ‘Pyxis Pioneer’ With Over 47,000 Tonnes Of Fuel From US Arrives At New Mangalore PortSeveral Injured In Dimona As Iranian Missile Hits Israel’s ‘Little India’; Videos Show Chaos123PhotostoriesIn pics: India’s sea-based deterrent triad – Arihant-class SSBN fleet; INS Arihant, INS Arighaat & INS AridhamanTV friendships that defined a generation: From ‘Friends’ to ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ the bonds we never got overTOISA 2025 winner list (part 1): Mithali Raj, Shubman Gill, Harmanpreet Kaur, and more win bigConstant urge to pee but little output? A urologist explains what your body might be telling you5 factors to consider before investing in real estate5 common marriage mistakes that are major causes of divorce around the worldTOISA 2025 celebrates India’s sporting excellence with Smriti Mandhana and Samrat Rana leading the honoursCan’t stop overthinking conversations before bed? What your brain is doing and how to break the cycleWho is Leena Nair? From Kolhapur to leading Chanel’s Rs 360 crore empireCoco, Julian, Marina and more: Meet the kids of the ‘Friends’ cast123Hot PicksIran newsGautam SinghaniaStrait of HormuzGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingBihar board result 2026Air India Boeing 77760% free seat ruleQatar LNG ExportsMojtaba KhameneiJames GraceySpring EquinoxDiesel price hike8th Pay CommissionPremium Petrol Price Hike

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

ANI file photo NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday criticised the Narendra Modi-led Union government over the depreciation of the Indian rupee, questioning the Prime Minister’s ability to lead the country.Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Raut recalled a remark made by PM Modi during his tenure as Gujarat chief…

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