July 3, 2026

March 2026

NEW DELHI: The stage is set for Round 2 of Mamata Banerjee vs Suvendu Adhikari electoral rivalry in West Bengal. The West Bengal chief minister and the leader of the opposition in the state assembly are ready for another face off, this time in Bhabanipur seat, in the assembly elections to be held next month. The Round 1 of this contest was won by BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari in 2021 when he defeated Mamata in Nandigram by 1,956 votes. Mamata’s defeat took the shine off the overall impressive Trinamool Congress victory over the BJP in the assembly elections five years back. While the TMC won 215 seats and a vote share of 48%, the BJP tally stood at 77 with a vote share of 38%.Mamata and Suvendu, who was once a close aide of the Trinamool chief, parted ways in 2020. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killedAccusing Mamata of corruption and electoral malpractice, Suvendu left the TMC and joined the BJP. Since then, they have been bitter rivals. Watch From Nandigram To Bhabanipur: BJP’s Adhikari Sets Up High-Stakes Showdown With Mamata Banerjee Mamata today announced a list of 291 TMC candidates preparing ground for a fierce electoral battle with the BJP in the state. The West Bengal chief minister expressed confidence that her party would secure a comfortable majority once again. “We will win more than 226 seats in the 2026 assembly polls. The BJP’s tally will decrease in this election. They will receive a befitting reply for their anti-people policies,” Mamata said annoucning the names of party candidates.The BJP, on the other hand, is confident about winning West Bengal this time and also Suvendu repeating his 2021 feat by once again defeating Mamata. “Suvendu Adhikari will win from both Nandigram and Bhabanipur by a massive margin. This is not just about the BJP; it reflects the mood of the people,” West Bengal BJP President and MP Samik Bhattacharya said.But while Suvendu will try to keep Mamata on the tenterhooks in Bhabanipur, he may himself face a tough terrain in Nandigram, where the TMC has fielded a former BJP panchayat chief.Pabitra Kar, who was known to be close to Suvendu Adhikari, rejoined the ruling TMC hours ahead of party’s announcement of candidates, and has been pitted against the BJP leader in Nandigram.The TMC, in a social media post, said Kar was “dissatisfied with the BJP’s anti-people stance”. Kar, who quit the TMC in November 2020 to join the BJP, played a significant role in consolidating the saffron party’s organisational structure in the Boyal-1 area and was believed to have been instrumental in securing a lead for the BJP in the region five years back.In the 2021 assembly elections, Suvendu Adhikari had managed a slender victory in Nandigram polling 1,10,764 votes, while Mamata managed 1,08,808 votes.However, this time around, it would be interesting to see who — Mamata or Suvendu — benefits from the breaking of the alliance between the Congress and the Left.Mamata targets Election Commission, questions timing of administrative reshuffleMamata launched a sharp attack on the EC, alleging that senior administrative and police officers were being transferred ahead of the assembly polls at the behest of the BJP.Addressing reporters while announcing the Trinamool Congress candidate list for the 2026 assembly elections, Banerjee wondered “Why are senior officers being transferred just before Eid? Are there plans to trigger riots before elections?”The chief minister alleged that the list of officers who were transferred was prepared at the BJP’s office and the decision was merely implemented by the Election Commission.She further alleged that some officials from outside West Bengal had been brought in to assist the BJP in the electoral process. Accusing the poll panel of acting under political pressure, the TMC supremo said the EC was “playing a nice game on behalf of the BJP”.”They should directly campaign for the BJP,” she said.Banerjee also alleged that the transfers were aimed at facilitating the movement of money and arms for the BJP ahead of the polls.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 MediaVideos’HUGE HORROR STORY’: Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk’s 1st Remarks After Release From NSA DetentionLok Sabha Revokes Suspension Of 8 Oppn MPs, Warns Against Placards, AI PicturesCentre Confirms All Indian Sailors, Ships Are Safe As LPG Vessels Shivalik, Nanda Devi Dock In IndiaDial PM Modi For Peace: Finland Backs India To Broker Ceasefire, Urges Trump To Call DelhiNDA Victory in Rajya Sabha Polls Triggers War Of Words As Opposition Split Widens In BiharIndia Condemns Pakistan Strikes In Afghanistan, Calls It Act Of Aggression And Warns EscalationNanda Devi Returns Home After Shivalik, Crew Thanks Indian Navy For Safe Transit Through HormuzIndia Dismisses Iran ‘Tanker Swap’ Deal Reports As Baseless, Ensures Safe Ship Movement Amid Crisis‘Biased Characterization Of India’: MEA Slams USCIRF Report Seeking Sanctions On RSS, R&AWJoint Tax Filing To Zero Penalties: AAP MP Raghav Chadha Pushes Big Relief For Common Indians123PhotostoriesAfter LPG crisis, offices & schools encourage home tiffin: 11 low-gas dishes apt for lunch boxes10 best anime fighting games in 2026 that every fan can’t miss this yearHow to identify sweet anjeer while shopping and never pick low-quality figs‘Dhurandhar’ recap: Key characters to remember ahead of the release of Ranveer Singh starrer ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’6 Japanese philosophy ideas that help quiet an overthinking mindHeart health tips: Cardiologist lists 7 things you should never do after 8 pmInside Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s ‘Haldi + Holi’ ceremony: From boat entries to floral kurtas5 meanings behind lighting a diya during prayer‘The Odyssey,’ ‘Project Hail Mary,’ and ‘Dune 3’: Oscar 2027’s early and likely contenders to watchDelhi’s big road push: New corridors, flyovers, free rides and more123Hot PicksDoha travel alertLadakh statehood ralliesRasgulla choking deathGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingMagic JohnsonIndia LPG TankerGreen Card HoldersTaylor SwiftTeam VenezuelaGreen Card HoldersAssembly election dateWWE Raw NewsCarlos Correa WifeEid ul fitr 2026

NEW DELHI: The stage is set for Round 2 of Mamata Banerjee vs Suvendu Adhikari electoral rivalry in West Bengal. The West Bengal chief minister and the leader of the opposition in the state assembly are ready for another face off, this time in Bhabanipur seat, in the assembly elections to be held next month. The Round 1 of this contest was won by BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari in 2021 when he defeated Mamata in Nandigram by 1,956 votes. Mamata’s defeat took the shine off the overall impressive Trinamool Congress victory over the BJP in the assembly elections five years back. While the TMC won 215 seats and a vote share of 48%, the BJP tally stood at 77 with a vote share of 38%.Mamata and Suvendu, who was once a close aide of the Trinamool chief, parted ways in 2020. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killedAccusing Mamata of corruption and electoral malpractice, Suvendu left the TMC and joined the BJP. Since then, they have been bitter rivals. Watch From Nandigram To Bhabanipur: BJP’s Adhikari Sets Up High-Stakes Showdown With Mamata Banerjee Mamata today announced a list of 291 TMC candidates preparing ground for a fierce electoral battle with the BJP in the state. The West Bengal chief minister expressed confidence that her party would secure a comfortable majority once again. “We will win more than 226 seats in the 2026 assembly polls. The BJP’s tally will decrease in this election. They will receive a befitting reply for their anti-people policies,” Mamata said annoucning the names of party candidates.The BJP, on the other hand, is confident about winning West Bengal this time and also Suvendu repeating his 2021 feat by once again defeating Mamata. “Suvendu Adhikari will win from both Nandigram and Bhabanipur by a massive margin. This is not just about the BJP; it reflects the mood of the people,” West Bengal BJP President and MP Samik Bhattacharya said.But while Suvendu will try to keep Mamata on the tenterhooks in Bhabanipur, he may himself face a tough terrain in Nandigram, where the TMC has fielded a former BJP panchayat chief.Pabitra Kar, who was known to be close to Suvendu Adhikari, rejoined the ruling TMC hours ahead of party’s announcement of candidates, and has been pitted against the BJP leader in Nandigram.The TMC, in a social media post, said Kar was “dissatisfied with the BJP’s anti-people stance”. Kar, who quit the TMC in November 2020 to join the BJP, played a significant role in consolidating the saffron party’s organisational structure in the Boyal-1 area and was believed to have been instrumental in securing a lead for the BJP in the region five years back.In the 2021 assembly elections, Suvendu Adhikari had managed a slender victory in Nandigram polling 1,10,764 votes, while Mamata managed 1,08,808 votes.However, this time around, it would be interesting to see who — Mamata or Suvendu — benefits from the breaking of the alliance between the Congress and the Left.Mamata targets Election Commission, questions timing of administrative reshuffleMamata launched a sharp attack on the EC, alleging that senior administrative and police officers were being transferred ahead of the assembly polls at the behest of the BJP.Addressing reporters while announcing the Trinamool Congress candidate list for the 2026 assembly elections, Banerjee wondered “Why are senior officers being transferred just before Eid? Are there plans to trigger riots before elections?”The chief minister alleged that the list of officers who were transferred was prepared at the BJP’s office and the decision was merely implemented by the Election Commission.She further alleged that some officials from outside West Bengal had been brought in to assist the BJP in the electoral process. Accusing the poll panel of acting under political pressure, the TMC supremo said the EC was “playing a nice game on behalf of the BJP”.”They should directly campaign for the BJP,” she said.Banerjee also alleged that the transfers were aimed at facilitating the movement of money and arms for the BJP ahead of the polls.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 MediaVideos’HUGE HORROR STORY’: Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk’s 1st Remarks After Release From NSA DetentionLok Sabha Revokes Suspension Of 8 Oppn MPs, Warns Against Placards, AI PicturesCentre Confirms All Indian Sailors, Ships Are Safe As LPG Vessels Shivalik, Nanda Devi Dock In IndiaDial PM Modi For Peace: Finland Backs India To Broker Ceasefire, Urges Trump To Call DelhiNDA Victory in Rajya Sabha Polls Triggers War Of Words As Opposition Split Widens In BiharIndia Condemns Pakistan Strikes In Afghanistan, Calls It Act Of Aggression And Warns EscalationNanda Devi Returns Home After Shivalik, Crew Thanks Indian Navy For Safe Transit Through HormuzIndia Dismisses Iran ‘Tanker Swap’ Deal Reports As Baseless, Ensures Safe Ship Movement Amid Crisis‘Biased Characterization Of India’: MEA Slams USCIRF Report Seeking Sanctions On RSS, R&AWJoint Tax Filing To Zero Penalties: AAP MP Raghav Chadha Pushes Big Relief For Common Indians123PhotostoriesAfter LPG crisis, offices & schools encourage home tiffin: 11 low-gas dishes apt for lunch boxes10 best anime fighting games in 2026 that every fan can’t miss this yearHow to identify sweet anjeer while shopping and never pick low-quality figs‘Dhurandhar’ recap: Key characters to remember ahead of the release of Ranveer Singh starrer ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’6 Japanese philosophy ideas that help quiet an overthinking mindHeart health tips: Cardiologist lists 7 things you should never do after 8 pmInside Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s ‘Haldi + Holi’ ceremony: From boat entries to floral kurtas5 meanings behind lighting a diya during prayer‘The Odyssey,’ ‘Project Hail Mary,’ and ‘Dune 3’: Oscar 2027’s early and likely contenders to watchDelhi’s big road push: New corridors, flyovers, free rides and more123Hot PicksDoha travel alertLadakh statehood ralliesRasgulla choking deathGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingMagic JohnsonIndia LPG TankerGreen Card HoldersTaylor SwiftTeam VenezuelaGreen Card HoldersAssembly election dateWWE Raw NewsCarlos Correa WifeEid ul fitr 2026

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NEW DELHI: The stage is set for Round 2 of Mamata Banerjee vs Suvendu Adhikari electoral rivalry in West Bengal. The West Bengal chief minister and the leader of the opposition in the state assembly are ready for another face off, this time in Bhabanipur seat, in the assembly elections to be held next month….

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Former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, with Karamvir Singh Boudh, who was elected as Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana NEW DELHI: The Congress on Tuesday accused the BJP of attempting “vote chori” and “murdering democracy” in the Haryana Rajya Sabha elections, even as the party asserted that it would take the “strictest possible action” against its own MLAs who allegedly cross-voted.The sharp attack came hours after a dramatic and closely watched Rajya Sabha contest in Haryana ended past midnight, with the BJP and Congress winning one seat each after allegations of violation of vote secrecy, invalidation of ballots and cross-voting roiled the election. Watch NDA Victory in Rajya Sabha Polls Triggers War Of Words As Opposition Split Widens In Bihar One seat each for BJP and Congress after tense overnight countBJP’s Sanjay Bhatia and Congress’s Karamvir Singh Boudh were elected to the Rajya Sabha from Haryana.Bhatia, a former Lok Sabha MP from Karnal, won the first seat comfortably with 39 first-preference votes. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killedBoudh, a retired Haryana government employee and a prominent Dalit activist currently serving as the coordinator of the Congress’s National Scheduled Castes Department, secured the second seat with 28 votes.Independent candidate Satish Nandal polled 16 votes, making it a narrow contest for the second seat after cross-voting dented what had otherwise been a comfortable arithmetic for the Congress.Under the Rajya Sabha election formula, the quota required to win one seat was 2,767 vote value, and both Bhatia and Boudh crossed that mark, leaving no room for further transfer of votes.Deepender Hooda alleges ‘vote chori’, says BJP tried to ‘murder democracy’Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda congratulated the party leadership and hailed Boudh’s win, but launched a blistering attack on the BJP over the manner in which the poll was conducted.“In Haryana, under the cover of darkness at night, the BJP tried to murder democracy and indulge in vote chori,” Hooda alleged, according to PTI.He claimed the BJP had “no faith in democracy” and only wanted to “seize power”, but said Congress MLAs and workers stayed vigilant and ensured victory for Boudh, whom he described as someone who works for social justice.As quoted by news agency ANI, Hooda said that the BJP resorted to “every possible tactic” and that “such unethical politics for just one Rajya Sabha seat would never have been seen anywhere in the entire country before today.”Congress alleges horse-trading, bias by returning officerHooda alleged that the BJP tried “all sorts of tactics”, including encouraging cross-voting and attempting to win the seat through horse-trading.He further claimed that when this did not succeed, the BJP “activated its B-team INLD”, alleging that the Indian National Lok Dal did not clarify its stand until polling day.“When more than 30 votes had already been cast in favour of the Congress, INLD fled from voting,” Hooda alleged.He then accused the BJP of influencing the Election Commission and alleged bias by the Returning Officer.“The Returning Officer showed bias and cancelled our four votes, even though all of them were valid. This was done after another election official had already placed the same votes in the valid tray. This shows that the BJP was indulging in ‘vote chori’ in the Rajya Sabha elections,” Hooda said.Further, Hooda added, “The 4 votes that were declared invalid during our counting are all valid… This is the victory of democracy.”Congress admits cross-voting, says ‘strictest action’ comingEven while attacking the BJP, the Congress acknowledged that some of its MLAs had cross-voted.Hooda said some Congress legislators in Haryana had engaged in cross-voting and warned that action would follow.“Those of our MLAs who have sold their conscience and integrity—not just them, but even their next generations will be held accountable by the people of Haryana. The Congress Party is going to take the strictest possible action against those MLAs,” he said.Hooda also said the public would not forgive those MLAs, while those who remained loyal to the party despite “temptations and pressures” had earned greater respect among the people.Five votes invalid, INLD abstainsThe election saw several twists.Two legislators of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) abstained from voting, reducing the number of valid votes to 88 in the 90-member Haryana Assembly at the beginning of polling.INLD leaders Abhay Singh Chautala and Aditya Devi Lal said the party had decided to abstain “keeping people’s sentiments in view”.Later, five votes were declared invalid — four of the Congress and one of the BJP, officials said.After both the Congress and the BJP approached the Election Commission alleging violation of vote secrecy, the poll body declared Congress MLA Paramvir Singh’s vote invalid.The invalidation of ballots became a major flashpoint, with Congress alleging selective targeting and procedural bias.Boudh calls it a win despite ‘illegal cancellation of votes’Congress winner Karamvir Singh Boudh also questioned the cancellation of votes after his victory.ANI quoted Boudh as saying, “Votes were illegally cancelled, but I received the blessings of the Congress party and the people. I received love from the Congress’s top leadership.”Congress leaders projected his win as politically significant, especially after BJP leaders had dismissed him as a “weak candidate”.Hooda said those who called a social worker weak had been given a “befitting response” and described the result as a “victory of the Constitution”.Congress Scheduled Castes Department chief Rajendra Pal Gautam, who accompanied Hooda at the press conference, said he was “absolutely delighted” that the party had nominated “a true Ambedkarite” for the Rajya Sabha, PTI reported.Fresh assembly flashpointThe Rajya Sabha result also spilled into the Haryana Assembly on Tuesday.In a separate development, Congress MLAs staged a walkout from the Assembly, alleging that democratic values were being undermined.Congress MLA Geeta Bhukkal claimed the House had turned into a “market where things are bought and sold” and alleged that ministers had openly admitted to “buying” MLAs.“The Constitution has been strangled, and that is why we are boycotting,” she said, as quoted by ANI.BJP hits backThe BJP, however, rejected the Congress’s allegations and turned the cross-voting issue back on the opposition.BJP winner Sanjay Bhatia said the Congress was upset because its own legislators had not stayed united.“Congress’s responsibility was to unite its workers and MLAs, now they are putting allegations on us for the cross-votes of their own workers, which is not right,” Bhatia said.Haryana minister Mahipal Dhanda also dismissed the Congress charge, saying the Independent candidate had every right to seek votes and alleging that the Congress had “held their workers hostage”.A narrow escape for CongressWith five Congress MLAs allegedly cross-voting, Independent candidate Satish Nandal could have potentially matched Boudh’s tally if he had also secured BJP candidate Bhatia’s 11 second-preference votes and if one more Congress MLA had cross-voted in his favour.That arithmetic underlined just how close the Congress came to losing a seat it was expected to win comfortably.In the end, despite cross-voting, invalid ballots and bitter allegations of horse-trading, the Congress managed to secure one of the two seats — but the result has opened a fresh internal crisis over dissident MLAs even as it fuels a new political battle with the BJP over the conduct of the poll.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 MediaVideos’Bundled Up And Thrown Into Jail’: Sonam Wangchuk In First Remarks After Release From NSA DetentionLok Sabha Revokes Suspension Of 8 Oppn MPs, Warns Against Placards, AI PicturesCentre Confirms All Indian Sailors, Ships Are Safe As LPG Vessels Shivalik, Nanda Devi Dock In IndiaDial PM Modi For Peace: Finland Backs India To Broker Ceasefire, Urges Trump To Call DelhiNDA Victory in Rajya Sabha Polls Triggers War Of Words As Opposition Split Widens In BiharIndia Condemns Pakistan Strikes In Afghanistan, Calls It Act Of Aggression And Warns EscalationNanda Devi Returns Home After Shivalik, Crew Thanks Indian Navy For Safe Transit Through HormuzIndia Dismisses Iran ‘Tanker Swap’ Deal Reports As Baseless, Ensures Safe Ship Movement Amid Crisis‘Biased Characterization Of India’: MEA Slams USCIRF Report Seeking Sanctions On RSS, R&AWJoint Tax Filing To Zero Penalties: AAP MP Raghav Chadha Pushes Big Relief For Common Indians123PhotostoriesAfter LPG crisis, offices & schools encourage home tiffin: 11 low-gas dishes apt for lunch boxes10 best anime fighting games in 2026 that every fan can’t miss this yearHow to identify sweet anjeer while shopping and never pick low-quality figs‘Dhurandhar’ recap: Key characters to remember ahead of the release of Ranveer Singh starrer ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’6 Japanese philosophy ideas that help quiet an overthinking mindHeart health tips: Cardiologist lists 7 things you should never do after 8 pmInside Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s ‘Haldi + Holi’ ceremony: From boat entries to floral kurtas5 meanings behind lighting a diya during prayer‘The Odyssey,’ ‘Project Hail Mary,’ and ‘Dune 3’: Oscar 2027’s early and likely contenders to watchDelhi’s big road push: New corridors, flyovers, free rides and more123Hot PicksDoha travel alertLadakh statehood ralliesRasgulla choking deathGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingMagic JohnsonIndia LPG TankerGreen Card HoldersTaylor SwiftTeam VenezuelaGreen Card HoldersAssembly election dateWWE Raw NewsCarlos Correa WifeEid ul fitr 2026

Former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, with Karamvir Singh Boudh, who was elected as Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana NEW DELHI: The Congress on Tuesday accused the BJP of attempting “vote chori” and “murdering democracy” in the Haryana Rajya Sabha elections, even as the party asserted that it would take the “strictest possible action” against its own MLAs who allegedly cross-voted.The sharp attack came hours after a dramatic and closely watched Rajya Sabha contest in Haryana ended past midnight, with the BJP and Congress winning one seat each after allegations of violation of vote secrecy, invalidation of ballots and cross-voting roiled the election. Watch NDA Victory in Rajya Sabha Polls Triggers War Of Words As Opposition Split Widens In Bihar One seat each for BJP and Congress after tense overnight countBJP’s Sanjay Bhatia and Congress’s Karamvir Singh Boudh were elected to the Rajya Sabha from Haryana.Bhatia, a former Lok Sabha MP from Karnal, won the first seat comfortably with 39 first-preference votes. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killedBoudh, a retired Haryana government employee and a prominent Dalit activist currently serving as the coordinator of the Congress’s National Scheduled Castes Department, secured the second seat with 28 votes.Independent candidate Satish Nandal polled 16 votes, making it a narrow contest for the second seat after cross-voting dented what had otherwise been a comfortable arithmetic for the Congress.Under the Rajya Sabha election formula, the quota required to win one seat was 2,767 vote value, and both Bhatia and Boudh crossed that mark, leaving no room for further transfer of votes.Deepender Hooda alleges ‘vote chori’, says BJP tried to ‘murder democracy’Addressing a press conference in Delhi, Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda congratulated the party leadership and hailed Boudh’s win, but launched a blistering attack on the BJP over the manner in which the poll was conducted.“In Haryana, under the cover of darkness at night, the BJP tried to murder democracy and indulge in vote chori,” Hooda alleged, according to PTI.He claimed the BJP had “no faith in democracy” and only wanted to “seize power”, but said Congress MLAs and workers stayed vigilant and ensured victory for Boudh, whom he described as someone who works for social justice.As quoted by news agency ANI, Hooda said that the BJP resorted to “every possible tactic” and that “such unethical politics for just one Rajya Sabha seat would never have been seen anywhere in the entire country before today.”Congress alleges horse-trading, bias by returning officerHooda alleged that the BJP tried “all sorts of tactics”, including encouraging cross-voting and attempting to win the seat through horse-trading.He further claimed that when this did not succeed, the BJP “activated its B-team INLD”, alleging that the Indian National Lok Dal did not clarify its stand until polling day.“When more than 30 votes had already been cast in favour of the Congress, INLD fled from voting,” Hooda alleged.He then accused the BJP of influencing the Election Commission and alleged bias by the Returning Officer.“The Returning Officer showed bias and cancelled our four votes, even though all of them were valid. This was done after another election official had already placed the same votes in the valid tray. This shows that the BJP was indulging in ‘vote chori’ in the Rajya Sabha elections,” Hooda said.Further, Hooda added, “The 4 votes that were declared invalid during our counting are all valid… This is the victory of democracy.”Congress admits cross-voting, says ‘strictest action’ comingEven while attacking the BJP, the Congress acknowledged that some of its MLAs had cross-voted.Hooda said some Congress legislators in Haryana had engaged in cross-voting and warned that action would follow.“Those of our MLAs who have sold their conscience and integrity—not just them, but even their next generations will be held accountable by the people of Haryana. The Congress Party is going to take the strictest possible action against those MLAs,” he said.Hooda also said the public would not forgive those MLAs, while those who remained loyal to the party despite “temptations and pressures” had earned greater respect among the people.Five votes invalid, INLD abstainsThe election saw several twists.Two legislators of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) abstained from voting, reducing the number of valid votes to 88 in the 90-member Haryana Assembly at the beginning of polling.INLD leaders Abhay Singh Chautala and Aditya Devi Lal said the party had decided to abstain “keeping people’s sentiments in view”.Later, five votes were declared invalid — four of the Congress and one of the BJP, officials said.After both the Congress and the BJP approached the Election Commission alleging violation of vote secrecy, the poll body declared Congress MLA Paramvir Singh’s vote invalid.The invalidation of ballots became a major flashpoint, with Congress alleging selective targeting and procedural bias.Boudh calls it a win despite ‘illegal cancellation of votes’Congress winner Karamvir Singh Boudh also questioned the cancellation of votes after his victory.ANI quoted Boudh as saying, “Votes were illegally cancelled, but I received the blessings of the Congress party and the people. I received love from the Congress’s top leadership.”Congress leaders projected his win as politically significant, especially after BJP leaders had dismissed him as a “weak candidate”.Hooda said those who called a social worker weak had been given a “befitting response” and described the result as a “victory of the Constitution”.Congress Scheduled Castes Department chief Rajendra Pal Gautam, who accompanied Hooda at the press conference, said he was “absolutely delighted” that the party had nominated “a true Ambedkarite” for the Rajya Sabha, PTI reported.Fresh assembly flashpointThe Rajya Sabha result also spilled into the Haryana Assembly on Tuesday.In a separate development, Congress MLAs staged a walkout from the Assembly, alleging that democratic values were being undermined.Congress MLA Geeta Bhukkal claimed the House had turned into a “market where things are bought and sold” and alleged that ministers had openly admitted to “buying” MLAs.“The Constitution has been strangled, and that is why we are boycotting,” she said, as quoted by ANI.BJP hits backThe BJP, however, rejected the Congress’s allegations and turned the cross-voting issue back on the opposition.BJP winner Sanjay Bhatia said the Congress was upset because its own legislators had not stayed united.“Congress’s responsibility was to unite its workers and MLAs, now they are putting allegations on us for the cross-votes of their own workers, which is not right,” Bhatia said.Haryana minister Mahipal Dhanda also dismissed the Congress charge, saying the Independent candidate had every right to seek votes and alleging that the Congress had “held their workers hostage”.A narrow escape for CongressWith five Congress MLAs allegedly cross-voting, Independent candidate Satish Nandal could have potentially matched Boudh’s tally if he had also secured BJP candidate Bhatia’s 11 second-preference votes and if one more Congress MLA had cross-voted in his favour.That arithmetic underlined just how close the Congress came to losing a seat it was expected to win comfortably.In the end, despite cross-voting, invalid ballots and bitter allegations of horse-trading, the Congress managed to secure one of the two seats — but the result has opened a fresh internal crisis over dissident MLAs even as it fuels a new political battle with the BJP over the conduct of the poll.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 MediaVideos’Bundled Up And Thrown Into Jail’: Sonam Wangchuk In First Remarks After Release From NSA DetentionLok Sabha Revokes Suspension Of 8 Oppn MPs, Warns Against Placards, AI PicturesCentre Confirms All Indian Sailors, Ships Are Safe As LPG Vessels Shivalik, Nanda Devi Dock In IndiaDial PM Modi For Peace: Finland Backs India To Broker Ceasefire, Urges Trump To Call DelhiNDA Victory in Rajya Sabha Polls Triggers War Of Words As Opposition Split Widens In BiharIndia Condemns Pakistan Strikes In Afghanistan, Calls It Act Of Aggression And Warns EscalationNanda Devi Returns Home After Shivalik, Crew Thanks Indian Navy For Safe Transit Through HormuzIndia Dismisses Iran ‘Tanker Swap’ Deal Reports As Baseless, Ensures Safe Ship Movement Amid Crisis‘Biased Characterization Of India’: MEA Slams USCIRF Report Seeking Sanctions On RSS, R&AWJoint Tax Filing To Zero Penalties: AAP MP Raghav Chadha Pushes Big Relief For Common Indians123PhotostoriesAfter LPG crisis, offices & schools encourage home tiffin: 11 low-gas dishes apt for lunch boxes10 best anime fighting games in 2026 that every fan can’t miss this yearHow to identify sweet anjeer while shopping and never pick low-quality figs‘Dhurandhar’ recap: Key characters to remember ahead of the release of Ranveer Singh starrer ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’6 Japanese philosophy ideas that help quiet an overthinking mindHeart health tips: Cardiologist lists 7 things you should never do after 8 pmInside Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s ‘Haldi + Holi’ ceremony: From boat entries to floral kurtas5 meanings behind lighting a diya during prayer‘The Odyssey,’ ‘Project Hail Mary,’ and ‘Dune 3’: Oscar 2027’s early and likely contenders to watchDelhi’s big road push: New corridors, flyovers, free rides and more123Hot PicksDoha travel alertLadakh statehood ralliesRasgulla choking deathGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingMagic JohnsonIndia LPG TankerGreen Card HoldersTaylor SwiftTeam VenezuelaGreen Card HoldersAssembly election dateWWE Raw NewsCarlos Correa WifeEid ul fitr 2026

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Former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, with Karamvir Singh Boudh, who was elected as Rajya Sabha MP from Haryana NEW DELHI: The Congress on Tuesday accused the BJP of attempting “vote chori” and “murdering democracy” in the Haryana Rajya Sabha elections, even as the party asserted that it would take the “strictest possible action”…

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Malaysia’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup ended after the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) awarded 3-0 forfeits in two matches for fielding ineligible players, a decision that confirmed Vietnam’s progress from Group F.The AFC said the action was taken after Malaysia used players who were not eligible during the final round of…

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This image is used for representation purpose only (AI-generated) Former AIADMK chief VK Sasikala recently announced the name of her new political party- All India Puratchi Thalaivar Makkal Munetra Kazhagam ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. The move signals a new phase in her political journey. “I will work to my full potential and use my 39 years of political experience to remove the DMK government,” Sasikala said while outlining her political plans. . Her entry into the state assembly elections comes at a time when the polls are expected to witness a high-stakes contest involving the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) led by Edappadi K Palaniswami, the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) headed by chief minister MK Stalin and his son Udhayanidhi Stalin, besides new entrants such as actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killed Watch Emotional Sasikala Unveils New Party AIPTMMK, Enters Political Fray in Tamil Nadu Once a close aide of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa, Sasikala’s political journey has spanned decades, marked by loyalty to the AIADMK leadership as well as controversies, legal battles and shift in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape following Jayalalithaa’s death in 2016.From confidante to political contender: Who is VK Sasikala?VK Sasikala is best known for her long association with Jayalalithaa and the AIADMK. For decades, she remained one of Jayalalithaa’s closest aides and confidantes, a relationship that gradually brought her into the centre of Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.Born in Mannargudi in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvarur district and a high school dropout, Sasikala’s early life was far different and simple. The association grew stronger over the years, with Sasikala emerging as one of the most trusted figures in Jayalalithaa’s inner circle and often acting as an intermediary between the AIADMK leadership and party cadres. . Following Jayalalithaa’s death, the AIADMK general council unanimously appointed Sasikala as the party’s general secretary, placing her at the helm of the party founded by MG Ramachandran.”Amma (Jayalalithaa) is not with us now but our party will rule here for the next 100 years,” Sasikala said while taking the post of General Secretary. Her elevation came amid a leadership vacuum within the party and briefly positioned her as the central figure in the AIADMK’s political future. However, Sasikala’s political career has also been marked by controversies and legal battles. She was earlier remanded to judicial custody for 30 days in connection with the Colour TV scam and later faced conviction in the disproportionate assets case linked to the Jayalalithaa government of the 1990s. In February 2017, the Supreme Court upheld her conviction and sentenced her to four years in prison, bringing an abrupt halt to her bid to assume the chief minister’s office in Tamil Nadu. She surrendered before a special court at the Parappana Agrahara central prison in Bengaluru to serve the sentence.The same year, allegations also surfaced when a senior Karnataka prison official claimed that Sasikala had bribed jail authorities for preferential treatment while in custody. The claim has been denied by her. She was later released in 2021 after four years. Meanwhile, political developments within the AIADMK continued to reshape her role in the party. Nearly nine months after she was appointed interim general secretary following Jayalalithaa’s death, the AIADMK general council passed a resolution in September 2017 removing her from the post and abolishing the position altogether.A bond between ‘Amma’ and ‘Chinnamma’The political rise of Sasikala is closely intertwined with the career of Jayalalithaa, who is popularly known among supporters as “Amma” (mother).For decades, Sasikala remained one of Jayalalithaa’s closest confidantes, earning the nickname “Chinnamma” (younger mother) among sections of party cadres who saw her as part of the late leader’s inner circle.Sasikala’s association with Jayalalithaa began in 1982 when she was introduced to the AIADMK leader by her husband M Natarajan, a government public relations officer at the time. What began as a personal acquaintance soon evolved into a close relationship, with Sasikala gradually becoming a constant presence at Jayalalithaa’s residence. By 1988, she had moved into the late leader’s Poes Garden home in Chennai. Over the years, Sasikala’s proximity to the AIADMK leader translated into considerable influence within the party. As Jayalalithaa maintained a tightly controlled political circle and remained largely inaccessible to many party functionaries, Sasikala often served as an intermediary between the leadership and the cadre. Sasikala frequently travelled with Jayalalithaa and was seen as one of the few people with direct access to the powerful chief minister.Party leaders and aspirants seeking positions or election tickets frequently routed their requests through her, gradually cementing her reputation as a powerful behind-the-scenes figure within AIADMK. Her influence within the party expanded during the years when AIADMK was in power in Tamil Nadu. Several leaders who later rose through the party ranks were widely believed to have benefited from Sasikala’s backing. Among them was O Panneerselvam, who later went on to become the state’s CM and a central figure in the party’s internal power struggles following Jayalalithaa’s death.Despite wielding influence within the party structure, Sasikala rarely occupied a formal political office during Jayalalithaa’s lifetime. Jayalalithaa never formally projected Sasikala as her political successor. Her role largely remained informal.The relationship between the two, however, was not without turbulence. In 1996 and again in 2012, Jayalalithaa briefly distanced herself from Sasikala, expelling her and several members of her extended family from the Poes Garden residence and accusing them of anti-party activities. When Jayalalithaa was hospitalised in 2016, Sasikala remained by her side. After the chief minister’s death later that year, she returned to Poes Garden.By then, Sasikala had become a deeply embedded figure within the party’s ecosystem – a confidante who had spent more than three decades alongside one of Tamil Nadu’s most influential political leaders.Behind the bars: Sasikala’s prison sagaIn September 2014, a special court sentenced Sasikala and her co-accused to four years in prison along with a Rs 10 crore fine each, after being found guilty of accumulating wealth beyond known sources of income during her close association with Jayalalithaa.After the Supreme Court upheld the conviction in February 2017, Sasikala surrendered before the special court at Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Bengaluru on February 14, 2017. The AIADMK aide, along with her sister-in-law J Ilavarasi and Jayalalithaa’s foster son VN Sudhakaran, were taken into custody immediately. Before surrendering, she paid respects at Jayalalithaa’s memorial and visited the residence of MG Ramachandran. During her four-year prison term, allegations of preferential treatment surfaced, with police officer D Roopa claiming that Sasikala had bribed jail officials for special privileges, including a private kitchen. Despite these claims, the jail term saw her barred from contesting elections, halting her immediate ambitions to become chief minister.Sasikala was finally released in January 2021 after serving her sentence. Her formal release took place at the Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru, where she had been undergoing Covid-19 treatment. Following protocol, she remained in the hospital for a brief period before re-entering the political arena. Crowds of supporters gathered outside the hospital, chanting slogans and distributing sweets to celebrate her return. Sasikala’s political equation with AIADMKSoon after Jayalalithaa’s death, the AIADMK general council unanimously appointed Sasikala as the party’s interim general secretary, marking the first time she formally assumed a leadership role within the organisation. At the time, O Panneerselvam, a long-time loyalist of Jayalalithaa, had been sworn in as Tamil Nadu’s chief minister.Within weeks, however, tensions began to surface. In February 2017, Panneerselvam launched an attack against Sasikala, claiming that he had been forced to resign as chief minister and accusing her camp of attempting to consolidate control over both the party and the government. . Amid the escalating power struggle, AIADMK elected Sasikala as its leader and she staked a claim to form the government. However, her bid to become chief minister was cut short when the Supreme Court upheld her conviction forcing her to surrender and serve a prison sentence. Before leaving for jail, Sasikala appointed Edappadi K Palaniswami as the AIADMK legislature party leader, paving the way for him to take over as chief minister.This resulted in deepening the division within the party. While Palaniswami emerged as the head of the government, Panneerselvam continued his rebellion, eventually leading to negotiations that resulted in a merger of factions within the AIADMK later in 2017. . As part of the restructuring, the party briefly abolished the post of general secretary in 2017 which was later revived in 2022.Pannerselvam, speaking at Jayalalithaa’s memorial in Chennai, claimed that he had been pressured to step down from the CM’s post. “I am saying these facts in front of you to make things clear in public. I will continue to struggle. I will take back my resignation if people, MLAs, want,” he said. In the years that followed, relations between Sasikala and the AIADMK leadership remained strained. Both Palaniswami and Panneerselvam had publicly distanced themselves from her, asserting that the party would function independently of her influence. Why is Sasikala launching a new party now?Years after being sidelined from AIADMK, Sasikala appears to be paving an independent political path as Tamil Nadu moves closer to the next Assembly elections.Moreover, the abolition of the general secretary’s post and the consolidation of leadership effectively closed the door on Sasikala’s return to the party’s organisational structure. Against this backdrop, the new outfit represents an attempt to reassert her political presence in a state where the legacy of Jayalalithaa and the AIADMK still carries electoral significance.While outlining her plans for the future, Sasikala said her political experience would guide her next steps in Tamil Nadu politics.The new party flag featured horizontal stripes of black, white and red embedded with the images of Dravidian icons CN Annadurai, MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa.The party symbol featured a Thennathoppu’ (coconut grove), indicating “unity” and that the party would function like a “joint family”.Sasikala also launched a scathing attack on Palaniswami for allegedly betraying her after she elevated him to the chief minister’s post in 2017.”I remained silent all these years hoping for unity, but the present circumstances have forced me to take this decision. Staying inactive now would be a betrayal to the party cadres and the people of Tamil Nadu,” she said while launching the party. Sasikala’s next political testFor decades, Sasikala operated from behind the scenes as she remained closely linked to the political legacy of Jayalalithaa and the AIADMK. Today, however, she appears ready to take the next step expanding her political domain.Tamil Nadu is set to witness a massive face-off between all the contesting parties on 23 April. With the launch of Sasikala’s new political party, she is stepping into the spotlight once again, this time as the face of her own political movement.About the AuthorPriyanshi RastogiPriyanshi Rastogi is a journalist with The Times of India. She primarily covers national and international news, along with business affairs. Her work focuses on the latest political events, in-depth explainers, features, offbeat articles and viral social media trending stories.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosLok Sabha Revokes Suspension Of 8 Oppn MPs, Warns Against Placards, AI PicturesCentre Confirms All Indian Sailors, Ships Are Safe As LPG Vessels Shivalik, Nanda Devi Dock In IndiaDial PM Modi For Peace: Finland Backs India To Broker Ceasefire, Urges Trump To Call DelhiNDA Victory in Rajya Sabha Polls Triggers War Of Words As Opposition Split Widens In BiharIndia Condemns Pakistan Strikes In Afghanistan, Calls It Act Of Aggression And Warns EscalationNanda Devi Returns Home After Shivalik, Crew Thanks Indian Navy For Safe Transit Through HormuzIndia Dismisses Iran ‘Tanker Swap’ Deal Reports As Baseless, Ensures Safe Ship Movement Amid Crisis‘Biased Characterization Of India’: MEA Slams USCIRF Report Seeking Sanctions On RSS, R&AWJoint Tax Filing To Zero Penalties: AAP MP Raghav Chadha Pushes Big Relief For Common IndiansIndia Vs Pakistan Showdown At UN: Delhi Calls Out ‘Imaginary Islamophobia’ Claims, Afghan Strikes123Photostories‘Dhurandhar’ recap: Key characters to remember ahead of the release of Ranveer Singh starrer ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’6 Japanese philosophy ideas that help quiet an overthinking mindHeart health tips: Cardiologist lists 7 things you should never do after 8 pmInside Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s ‘Haldi + Holi’ ceremony: From boat entries to floral kurtas5 meanings behind lighting a diya during prayer‘The Odyssey,’ ‘Project Hail Mary,’ and ‘Dune 3’: Oscar 2027’s early and likely contenders to watchDelhi’s big road push: New corridors, flyovers, free rides and moreFrom a luxurious house worth crores to expensive shoes and watch collection- Mr Faisu’s lavish lifestyle and house tour8 epic mountain drives in India perfect for summer travelMumbai Metro 3 boost: BMC to draft local area plans for 27 station zones by 2028123Hot PicksDoha travel alertLadakh statehood ralliesRasgulla choking deathGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingMagic JohnsonIndia LPG TankerGreen Card HoldersTaylor SwiftTeam VenezuelaGreen Card HoldersAssembly election dateWWE Raw NewsCarlos Correa WifeEid ul fitr 2026

This image is used for representation purpose only (AI-generated) Former AIADMK chief VK Sasikala recently announced the name of her new political party- All India Puratchi Thalaivar Makkal Munetra Kazhagam ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. The move signals a new phase in her political journey. “I will work to my full potential and use my 39 years of political experience to remove the DMK government,” Sasikala said while outlining her political plans. . Her entry into the state assembly elections comes at a time when the polls are expected to witness a high-stakes contest involving the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) led by Edappadi K Palaniswami, the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) headed by chief minister MK Stalin and his son Udhayanidhi Stalin, besides new entrants such as actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran calls Israeli bombing of fuel depots ‘ecocide’; Trump warns Nato over war falloutRising Gulf-Iran Tensions: elites press US to hit Iran harder; fear threat to HormuzAudio Details Iran Strike Aftermath: Mojtaba survives ‘Blue Sparrow’ hit; family and commanders killed Watch Emotional Sasikala Unveils New Party AIPTMMK, Enters Political Fray in Tamil Nadu Once a close aide of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa, Sasikala’s political journey has spanned decades, marked by loyalty to the AIADMK leadership as well as controversies, legal battles and shift in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape following Jayalalithaa’s death in 2016.From confidante to political contender: Who is VK Sasikala?VK Sasikala is best known for her long association with Jayalalithaa and the AIADMK. For decades, she remained one of Jayalalithaa’s closest aides and confidantes, a relationship that gradually brought her into the centre of Tamil Nadu’s political landscape.Born in Mannargudi in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvarur district and a high school dropout, Sasikala’s early life was far different and simple. The association grew stronger over the years, with Sasikala emerging as one of the most trusted figures in Jayalalithaa’s inner circle and often acting as an intermediary between the AIADMK leadership and party cadres. . Following Jayalalithaa’s death, the AIADMK general council unanimously appointed Sasikala as the party’s general secretary, placing her at the helm of the party founded by MG Ramachandran.”Amma (Jayalalithaa) is not with us now but our party will rule here for the next 100 years,” Sasikala said while taking the post of General Secretary. Her elevation came amid a leadership vacuum within the party and briefly positioned her as the central figure in the AIADMK’s political future. However, Sasikala’s political career has also been marked by controversies and legal battles. She was earlier remanded to judicial custody for 30 days in connection with the Colour TV scam and later faced conviction in the disproportionate assets case linked to the Jayalalithaa government of the 1990s. In February 2017, the Supreme Court upheld her conviction and sentenced her to four years in prison, bringing an abrupt halt to her bid to assume the chief minister’s office in Tamil Nadu. She surrendered before a special court at the Parappana Agrahara central prison in Bengaluru to serve the sentence.The same year, allegations also surfaced when a senior Karnataka prison official claimed that Sasikala had bribed jail authorities for preferential treatment while in custody. The claim has been denied by her. She was later released in 2021 after four years. Meanwhile, political developments within the AIADMK continued to reshape her role in the party. Nearly nine months after she was appointed interim general secretary following Jayalalithaa’s death, the AIADMK general council passed a resolution in September 2017 removing her from the post and abolishing the position altogether.A bond between ‘Amma’ and ‘Chinnamma’The political rise of Sasikala is closely intertwined with the career of Jayalalithaa, who is popularly known among supporters as “Amma” (mother).For decades, Sasikala remained one of Jayalalithaa’s closest confidantes, earning the nickname “Chinnamma” (younger mother) among sections of party cadres who saw her as part of the late leader’s inner circle.Sasikala’s association with Jayalalithaa began in 1982 when she was introduced to the AIADMK leader by her husband M Natarajan, a government public relations officer at the time. What began as a personal acquaintance soon evolved into a close relationship, with Sasikala gradually becoming a constant presence at Jayalalithaa’s residence. By 1988, she had moved into the late leader’s Poes Garden home in Chennai. Over the years, Sasikala’s proximity to the AIADMK leader translated into considerable influence within the party. As Jayalalithaa maintained a tightly controlled political circle and remained largely inaccessible to many party functionaries, Sasikala often served as an intermediary between the leadership and the cadre. Sasikala frequently travelled with Jayalalithaa and was seen as one of the few people with direct access to the powerful chief minister.Party leaders and aspirants seeking positions or election tickets frequently routed their requests through her, gradually cementing her reputation as a powerful behind-the-scenes figure within AIADMK. Her influence within the party expanded during the years when AIADMK was in power in Tamil Nadu. Several leaders who later rose through the party ranks were widely believed to have benefited from Sasikala’s backing. Among them was O Panneerselvam, who later went on to become the state’s CM and a central figure in the party’s internal power struggles following Jayalalithaa’s death.Despite wielding influence within the party structure, Sasikala rarely occupied a formal political office during Jayalalithaa’s lifetime. Jayalalithaa never formally projected Sasikala as her political successor. Her role largely remained informal.The relationship between the two, however, was not without turbulence. In 1996 and again in 2012, Jayalalithaa briefly distanced herself from Sasikala, expelling her and several members of her extended family from the Poes Garden residence and accusing them of anti-party activities. When Jayalalithaa was hospitalised in 2016, Sasikala remained by her side. After the chief minister’s death later that year, she returned to Poes Garden.By then, Sasikala had become a deeply embedded figure within the party’s ecosystem – a confidante who had spent more than three decades alongside one of Tamil Nadu’s most influential political leaders.Behind the bars: Sasikala’s prison sagaIn September 2014, a special court sentenced Sasikala and her co-accused to four years in prison along with a Rs 10 crore fine each, after being found guilty of accumulating wealth beyond known sources of income during her close association with Jayalalithaa.After the Supreme Court upheld the conviction in February 2017, Sasikala surrendered before the special court at Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Bengaluru on February 14, 2017. The AIADMK aide, along with her sister-in-law J Ilavarasi and Jayalalithaa’s foster son VN Sudhakaran, were taken into custody immediately. Before surrendering, she paid respects at Jayalalithaa’s memorial and visited the residence of MG Ramachandran. During her four-year prison term, allegations of preferential treatment surfaced, with police officer D Roopa claiming that Sasikala had bribed jail officials for special privileges, including a private kitchen. Despite these claims, the jail term saw her barred from contesting elections, halting her immediate ambitions to become chief minister.Sasikala was finally released in January 2021 after serving her sentence. Her formal release took place at the Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru, where she had been undergoing Covid-19 treatment. Following protocol, she remained in the hospital for a brief period before re-entering the political arena. Crowds of supporters gathered outside the hospital, chanting slogans and distributing sweets to celebrate her return. Sasikala’s political equation with AIADMKSoon after Jayalalithaa’s death, the AIADMK general council unanimously appointed Sasikala as the party’s interim general secretary, marking the first time she formally assumed a leadership role within the organisation. At the time, O Panneerselvam, a long-time loyalist of Jayalalithaa, had been sworn in as Tamil Nadu’s chief minister.Within weeks, however, tensions began to surface. In February 2017, Panneerselvam launched an attack against Sasikala, claiming that he had been forced to resign as chief minister and accusing her camp of attempting to consolidate control over both the party and the government. . Amid the escalating power struggle, AIADMK elected Sasikala as its leader and she staked a claim to form the government. However, her bid to become chief minister was cut short when the Supreme Court upheld her conviction forcing her to surrender and serve a prison sentence. Before leaving for jail, Sasikala appointed Edappadi K Palaniswami as the AIADMK legislature party leader, paving the way for him to take over as chief minister.This resulted in deepening the division within the party. While Palaniswami emerged as the head of the government, Panneerselvam continued his rebellion, eventually leading to negotiations that resulted in a merger of factions within the AIADMK later in 2017. . As part of the restructuring, the party briefly abolished the post of general secretary in 2017 which was later revived in 2022.Pannerselvam, speaking at Jayalalithaa’s memorial in Chennai, claimed that he had been pressured to step down from the CM’s post. “I am saying these facts in front of you to make things clear in public. I will continue to struggle. I will take back my resignation if people, MLAs, want,” he said. In the years that followed, relations between Sasikala and the AIADMK leadership remained strained. Both Palaniswami and Panneerselvam had publicly distanced themselves from her, asserting that the party would function independently of her influence. Why is Sasikala launching a new party now?Years after being sidelined from AIADMK, Sasikala appears to be paving an independent political path as Tamil Nadu moves closer to the next Assembly elections.Moreover, the abolition of the general secretary’s post and the consolidation of leadership effectively closed the door on Sasikala’s return to the party’s organisational structure. Against this backdrop, the new outfit represents an attempt to reassert her political presence in a state where the legacy of Jayalalithaa and the AIADMK still carries electoral significance.While outlining her plans for the future, Sasikala said her political experience would guide her next steps in Tamil Nadu politics.The new party flag featured horizontal stripes of black, white and red embedded with the images of Dravidian icons CN Annadurai, MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa.The party symbol featured a Thennathoppu’ (coconut grove), indicating “unity” and that the party would function like a “joint family”.Sasikala also launched a scathing attack on Palaniswami for allegedly betraying her after she elevated him to the chief minister’s post in 2017.”I remained silent all these years hoping for unity, but the present circumstances have forced me to take this decision. Staying inactive now would be a betrayal to the party cadres and the people of Tamil Nadu,” she said while launching the party. Sasikala’s next political testFor decades, Sasikala operated from behind the scenes as she remained closely linked to the political legacy of Jayalalithaa and the AIADMK. Today, however, she appears ready to take the next step expanding her political domain.Tamil Nadu is set to witness a massive face-off between all the contesting parties on 23 April. With the launch of Sasikala’s new political party, she is stepping into the spotlight once again, this time as the face of her own political movement.About the AuthorPriyanshi RastogiPriyanshi Rastogi is a journalist with The Times of India. She primarily covers national and international news, along with business affairs. 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