June 22, 2026

May 2026

‘Everyone deserves a Radhikka’: Vihaan Samat pens heartfelt birthday note for Radhikka Madan amid dating rumors

‘Everyone deserves a Radhikka’: Vihaan Samat pens heartfelt birthday note for Radhikka Madan amid dating rumors

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Rumours around a possible relationship between Vihaan Samat and Radhikka Madan have been doing the rounds since 2024, especially after she attended a screening of his film ‘CTRL’. Their frequent appearances together at events and subtle social media exchanges have only intensified the chatter, even though both actors have chosen to remain tight-lipped about their…

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In 1950s, secretary Bette Nesmith Graham’s simple trick turned it into a million-dollar office tool |

In 1950s, secretary Bette Nesmith Graham’s simple trick turned it into a million-dollar office tool |

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Bette Nesmith Graham fixed typing mistakes before computers existed. Image credit – Wikimedia Prior to the advent of computing and easy editing, typos were among the most serious challenges that typists had to cope with. Agree? One erroneous keystroke could ruin an entire page of writing. Secretaries in the 1950s typically had to rewrite the…

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NHL trade rumors intensify as Auston Matthews and William Nylander pushes Toronto Maple Leafs toward significant roster upgrades this offseason

NHL trade rumors intensify as Auston Matthews and William Nylander pushes Toronto Maple Leafs toward significant roster upgrades this offseason

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Auston Matthews and William Nylander (Image Via Twitter) Amidst what was described as exit interviews, Auston Matthews and William Nylander reportedly discussed key issues regarding the roster with the Toronto Maple Leafs, potentially entering what could easily be considered one of the most impactful NHL offseasons the team has ever experienced. Darren Dreger, an insider,…

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Salah’s shock European U-Turn: Is he turning his back on Saudi millions for one last act in Europe? | International Sports News

Salah’s shock European U-Turn: Is he turning his back on Saudi millions for one last act in Europe? | International Sports News

Vamsikrishna06 mins mins

Egypt’s Mohamed Salah enters the stadium during the Africa Cup of Nations group B soccer match between Egypt and South Africa in Agadir, Morocco, Friday, Dec. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe) What had long looked like a straightforward, high-value move away from Europe is no longer as certain, with Mohamed Salah now leaning towards an…

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AI-generated image use for representation NEW DELHI: The Banglar ‘manush’ have traditionally displayed a deep-rooted political loyalty, often rallying decisively behind a single political force and allowing it to govern for extended periods. Over nearly eight decades since independence, West Bengal’s political journey has not merely been a sequence of governments changing hands, but a story shaped in clear, dominant eras, each marked by ideological conviction and prolonged mandates.The 2026 assembly elections, however, have injected a new intensity into this legacy. What is unfolding is not just another electoral contest, but a high-stakes, high-voltage battle between long-incumbent chief minister Mamata Banerjee and a determined, aggressively expanding Bharatiya Janata Party brigade. Didi’s 15-year rule now faces its most formidable challenge yet. The BJP has mounted a relentless, ground-up campaign, deploying its top leadership and sharpening its attacks on the Trinamool Congress. The saffron party’s high command has gone so far as to assert that “the sun has set for TMC in Bengal.”But to understand the weight of BJP’s claim, the story of how Bengal’s political journey has evolved must be told.Congress era: Foundations of power and post-Partition rebuildingLike most states in newly independent India, Bengal’s early political leadership was shaped by the Congress. Bidhan Chandra Roy, one of the most important icons in the state’s history, became its first chief minister at a time when Bengal was reeling from the devastating effects of Partition in 1947.Bidhan Chandra’s leadership extended beyond routine governance. He played a crucial role in stabilising a fractured society and laid the foundations for modern Bengal’s administrative and infrastructural framework. Among his lasting contributions was the development of Salt Lake city, a planned township that symbolised forward-looking urbanisation.Kolkata, then Calcutta – was not just the state capital but also a political nerve centre for the Congress party. The city hosted several landmark sessions of the party across decades, becoming a stage for defining moments in India’s freedom struggle and political evolution. From the first singing of Vande Mataram to the articulation of Swaraj, Bengal remained at the heart of Congress.However, the Congress’s dominance gradually began to erode. Internal fractures, shifting political aspirations, and national-level upheavals weakened its grip. The emergence of the Bangla Congress marked the first serious rupture in its monopoly, introducing coalition politics and opening the door for alternative ideologies.The deaths of towering national leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri further destabilised the party’s structure and also its influence. The 1967 elections, often described as a “political earthquake,” dealt a decisive blow to Congress supremacy in Bengal.The red era: Rise and consolidation of Left dominanceEven as Indira Gandhi strengthened her political authority at the national level, especially after the 1971 electoral victory and the India-Pakistan war, Bengal was moving in a different direction.The Congress continued to lose ground in the state, and its final chief minister to the date, Siddhartha Shankar Ray, came to represent the end of an era. The political vacuum was swiftly filled by the Left Front, which rose to power in 1977 on the back of strong grassroots mobilisation and ideological clarity.At the centre of this transformation was Jyoti Basu, a towering Marxist leader who would go on to become one of India’s longest-serving chief ministers. Under his leadership, Bengal witnessed a profound restructuring of its rural and administrative systems.Key initiatives such as Operation Barga redefined land relations by strengthening the rights of sharecroppers, while the institutionalisation of the Panchayati Raj system in 1978 decentralised governance and empowered local bodies. These reforms created a durable political base for the Left.The Left Front governed Bengal uninterrupted from 1977 to 2011, one of the longest continuous tenures for any democratically elected communist government in the world. By 2000, Basu stepped down due to health reasons, passing the baton to comrade Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. While Bhattacharjee attempted to recalibrate the Left’s image with a focus on industrialisation, the ground realities had begun to shift. Discontent was brewing, and a new political force under Mamata Banerjee was gathering momentum.The Mamata moment: Disruption and dominanceMamata emerged as new strong leader in state.Emerging as a fierce and relentless challenger, Mamata dismantled the Left’s decades-long dominance in the 2011 assembly elections. Leading the Trinamool Congress, she secured a sweeping mandate of 184 seats and became Bengal’s first woman chief minister. Her victory marked not just a change in government, but a complete political reset. The Congress and the Left,once the principal forces in the state, were pushed to the margins. The BJP, despite having governed at the Centre earlier under Atal Bihari Vajpayee for nearly 6 years, remained an insignificant player in Bengal politics at the time.Mamata strengthened her grip further in 2016, returning to power with an even bigger mandate, crossing the 200-seat mark. At this stage, her dominance appeared unchallenged, with opposition forces fragmented and struggling to regain relevance.Her governance style, welfare outreach, and strong personal connect with voters ensured that the Trinamool Congress remained the central pole of Bengal politics.BJP’s surge: From fringe to formidable forceThe political equilibrium began to shift dramatically in 2021.The BJP launched an unprecedented campaign in Bengal, led by its stars Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah, also considered as “Chanakya” for the saffron party. The scale, intensity, and resources deployed marked a new phase in the state’s electoral politics.While Didi retained power, the BJPs performance signalled a major breakthrough. Winning 77 seats in the 294-member Assembly, the party emerged as the principal opposition, leapfrogging boththe Congress and the Left.The BJP’s strong emergence, in fact, pushed Congress and Left to the farthest margins of insignificance.This rise was significant not just numerically, but symbolically. A party that once struggled to make electoral inroads in Bengal had now positioned itself as the primary challenger to the ruling establishment under TMC supremo Mamata.2026 showdown: Continuity or change?Now, as Bengal records one of its highest-ever voter turnouts and witnesses intense, high-decibel campaigning, the stakes have never been higher.Is the state signalling a shift? Has “the sun has set for TMC in Bengal,” as the BJP leadership claims?Also the traditional notion of high voter-turnout interpreted as an undercurrent against the incumbent.The contest has increasingly taken on a bipolar character, squeezing out other political players and turning the election into a direct face-off between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP.The BJP, buoyed by its 2021 gains, has upped the ante, fielding heavyweight candidates even in traditional TMC bastions like Bhowanipore and other constituencies in southern Bengal. As a clear messaging – no seat is being conceded without a fight.Several pollsters in their exit poll predictions have also given an edge to BJP over Mamata’s TMC. This might be the first signal of discomfort for Didi. The poll of polls predicted that TMC would no longer be single strong and leading force, as BJP taking over it. In 2021, Mamata faced her former aide and a BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in Nandigram and suffered a rare personal defeat, even as she retained power across the state. This time, the dynamics appear more complex, with both sides locked in a strong contest from Bhowanipre.The elections have also seen a massive administrative exercise, including the special intensive revision process, criticised by Mamata but defended by the Election Commission, adding another layer of political tension.Will it continue its tradition of backing one dominant force for the long haul, or will it script a new chapter by embracing change?The answer lies with the Banglar ‘manush’.About the AuthorAbhishek MishraAbhishek Mishra is a Digital Content Producer at The Times of India, working with the news desk. He writes with a keen eye on foreign policy, defence developments, and the shifting currents of geopolitics-and yes, Indian politics always finds a way onto his radar too.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTamil Nadu Poll Tension: Vijay’s TVK Office Set On Fire, Security Concerns RiseRahul Gandhi Flags Fuel Price Surge After ₹993 LPG Hike, Warns Petrol-Diesel Could Be NextPunjab Assembly Chaos | CM Bhagwant Mann Allegedly ‘Intoxicated’, Opposition Demands Alcohol TestPakistan admits fuel vulnerability amid global oil shock; compares energy security with IndiaCommercial LPG Surges Past ₹3000, Hotels Warn Of Price Hike Impact | WatchTrust Vote Drama In Punjab: BJP Boycott, Congress Walkout Rocks HouseIndia-Bangladesh Row: Dhaka Summons Indian Envoy Over Assam CM Himanta’s RemarksJabalpur Cruise Boat Capsize: 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue at Bargi Dam in Madhya PradeshChanakya Today Exit Poll: BJP Sweep In Bengal, DMK Ahead In TN, Assam Favours NDAUS Hands Back 657 Stolen Antiquities Worth Million To India, Exposes Global Smuggling Networks123PhotostoriesHow Raghav Chadha’s mango shake differs from a regular mango shake; details insideRaw mango vs ripe mango: Which is a safer, smarter choice for people living with diabetes?From Daffodils to Castor beans: 5 Plants that can be deadly for your pet dogSons vs daughters: 5 ways parents treat them differently without realising and the impact it leavesDo Mangoes cause body heat? What happens when you eat too many Mangoes, doctor explains6 simple tips to keep your pet safe during extreme heatwaveFeeling anxious or low? These common vitamin deficiencies could be the hidden reasonAnushka Sharma birthday special: Must-watch films on OTT like ‘NH10’, ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’, ‘Band Baaja Baaraat’, ‘Sultan’5 fashion hacks all of us can steal from King CharlesUnderground shortcut: Delhi airport’s new subway to slash T2–T3 walking distance by 90%123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal ElectionPM ModiAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingStock Market Holiday TodayBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

AI-generated image use for representation NEW DELHI: The Banglar ‘manush’ have traditionally displayed a deep-rooted political loyalty, often rallying decisively behind a single political force and allowing it to govern for extended periods. Over nearly eight decades since independence, West Bengal’s political journey has not merely been a sequence of governments changing hands, but a story shaped in clear, dominant eras, each marked by ideological conviction and prolonged mandates.The 2026 assembly elections, however, have injected a new intensity into this legacy. What is unfolding is not just another electoral contest, but a high-stakes, high-voltage battle between long-incumbent chief minister Mamata Banerjee and a determined, aggressively expanding Bharatiya Janata Party brigade. Didi’s 15-year rule now faces its most formidable challenge yet. The BJP has mounted a relentless, ground-up campaign, deploying its top leadership and sharpening its attacks on the Trinamool Congress. The saffron party’s high command has gone so far as to assert that “the sun has set for TMC in Bengal.”But to understand the weight of BJP’s claim, the story of how Bengal’s political journey has evolved must be told.Congress era: Foundations of power and post-Partition rebuildingLike most states in newly independent India, Bengal’s early political leadership was shaped by the Congress. Bidhan Chandra Roy, one of the most important icons in the state’s history, became its first chief minister at a time when Bengal was reeling from the devastating effects of Partition in 1947.Bidhan Chandra’s leadership extended beyond routine governance. He played a crucial role in stabilising a fractured society and laid the foundations for modern Bengal’s administrative and infrastructural framework. Among his lasting contributions was the development of Salt Lake city, a planned township that symbolised forward-looking urbanisation.Kolkata, then Calcutta – was not just the state capital but also a political nerve centre for the Congress party. The city hosted several landmark sessions of the party across decades, becoming a stage for defining moments in India’s freedom struggle and political evolution. From the first singing of Vande Mataram to the articulation of Swaraj, Bengal remained at the heart of Congress.However, the Congress’s dominance gradually began to erode. Internal fractures, shifting political aspirations, and national-level upheavals weakened its grip. The emergence of the Bangla Congress marked the first serious rupture in its monopoly, introducing coalition politics and opening the door for alternative ideologies.The deaths of towering national leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri further destabilised the party’s structure and also its influence. The 1967 elections, often described as a “political earthquake,” dealt a decisive blow to Congress supremacy in Bengal.The red era: Rise and consolidation of Left dominanceEven as Indira Gandhi strengthened her political authority at the national level, especially after the 1971 electoral victory and the India-Pakistan war, Bengal was moving in a different direction.The Congress continued to lose ground in the state, and its final chief minister to the date, Siddhartha Shankar Ray, came to represent the end of an era. The political vacuum was swiftly filled by the Left Front, which rose to power in 1977 on the back of strong grassroots mobilisation and ideological clarity.At the centre of this transformation was Jyoti Basu, a towering Marxist leader who would go on to become one of India’s longest-serving chief ministers. Under his leadership, Bengal witnessed a profound restructuring of its rural and administrative systems.Key initiatives such as Operation Barga redefined land relations by strengthening the rights of sharecroppers, while the institutionalisation of the Panchayati Raj system in 1978 decentralised governance and empowered local bodies. These reforms created a durable political base for the Left.The Left Front governed Bengal uninterrupted from 1977 to 2011, one of the longest continuous tenures for any democratically elected communist government in the world. By 2000, Basu stepped down due to health reasons, passing the baton to comrade Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. While Bhattacharjee attempted to recalibrate the Left’s image with a focus on industrialisation, the ground realities had begun to shift. Discontent was brewing, and a new political force under Mamata Banerjee was gathering momentum.The Mamata moment: Disruption and dominanceMamata emerged as new strong leader in state.Emerging as a fierce and relentless challenger, Mamata dismantled the Left’s decades-long dominance in the 2011 assembly elections. Leading the Trinamool Congress, she secured a sweeping mandate of 184 seats and became Bengal’s first woman chief minister. Her victory marked not just a change in government, but a complete political reset. The Congress and the Left,once the principal forces in the state, were pushed to the margins. The BJP, despite having governed at the Centre earlier under Atal Bihari Vajpayee for nearly 6 years, remained an insignificant player in Bengal politics at the time.Mamata strengthened her grip further in 2016, returning to power with an even bigger mandate, crossing the 200-seat mark. At this stage, her dominance appeared unchallenged, with opposition forces fragmented and struggling to regain relevance.Her governance style, welfare outreach, and strong personal connect with voters ensured that the Trinamool Congress remained the central pole of Bengal politics.BJP’s surge: From fringe to formidable forceThe political equilibrium began to shift dramatically in 2021.The BJP launched an unprecedented campaign in Bengal, led by its stars Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah, also considered as “Chanakya” for the saffron party. The scale, intensity, and resources deployed marked a new phase in the state’s electoral politics.While Didi retained power, the BJPs performance signalled a major breakthrough. Winning 77 seats in the 294-member Assembly, the party emerged as the principal opposition, leapfrogging boththe Congress and the Left.The BJP’s strong emergence, in fact, pushed Congress and Left to the farthest margins of insignificance.This rise was significant not just numerically, but symbolically. A party that once struggled to make electoral inroads in Bengal had now positioned itself as the primary challenger to the ruling establishment under TMC supremo Mamata.2026 showdown: Continuity or change?Now, as Bengal records one of its highest-ever voter turnouts and witnesses intense, high-decibel campaigning, the stakes have never been higher.Is the state signalling a shift? Has “the sun has set for TMC in Bengal,” as the BJP leadership claims?Also the traditional notion of high voter-turnout interpreted as an undercurrent against the incumbent.The contest has increasingly taken on a bipolar character, squeezing out other political players and turning the election into a direct face-off between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP.The BJP, buoyed by its 2021 gains, has upped the ante, fielding heavyweight candidates even in traditional TMC bastions like Bhowanipore and other constituencies in southern Bengal. As a clear messaging – no seat is being conceded without a fight.Several pollsters in their exit poll predictions have also given an edge to BJP over Mamata’s TMC. This might be the first signal of discomfort for Didi. The poll of polls predicted that TMC would no longer be single strong and leading force, as BJP taking over it. In 2021, Mamata faced her former aide and a BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in Nandigram and suffered a rare personal defeat, even as she retained power across the state. This time, the dynamics appear more complex, with both sides locked in a strong contest from Bhowanipre.The elections have also seen a massive administrative exercise, including the special intensive revision process, criticised by Mamata but defended by the Election Commission, adding another layer of political tension.Will it continue its tradition of backing one dominant force for the long haul, or will it script a new chapter by embracing change?The answer lies with the Banglar ‘manush’.About the AuthorAbhishek MishraAbhishek Mishra is a Digital Content Producer at The Times of India, working with the news desk. He writes with a keen eye on foreign policy, defence developments, and the shifting currents of geopolitics-and yes, Indian politics always finds a way onto his radar too.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTamil Nadu Poll Tension: Vijay’s TVK Office Set On Fire, Security Concerns RiseRahul Gandhi Flags Fuel Price Surge After ₹993 LPG Hike, Warns Petrol-Diesel Could Be NextPunjab Assembly Chaos | CM Bhagwant Mann Allegedly ‘Intoxicated’, Opposition Demands Alcohol TestPakistan admits fuel vulnerability amid global oil shock; compares energy security with IndiaCommercial LPG Surges Past ₹3000, Hotels Warn Of Price Hike Impact | WatchTrust Vote Drama In Punjab: BJP Boycott, Congress Walkout Rocks HouseIndia-Bangladesh Row: Dhaka Summons Indian Envoy Over Assam CM Himanta’s RemarksJabalpur Cruise Boat Capsize: 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue at Bargi Dam in Madhya PradeshChanakya Today Exit Poll: BJP Sweep In Bengal, DMK Ahead In TN, Assam Favours NDAUS Hands Back 657 Stolen Antiquities Worth $14 Million To India, Exposes Global Smuggling Networks123PhotostoriesHow Raghav Chadha’s mango shake differs from a regular mango shake; details insideRaw mango vs ripe mango: Which is a safer, smarter choice for people living with diabetes?From Daffodils to Castor beans: 5 Plants that can be deadly for your pet dogSons vs daughters: 5 ways parents treat them differently without realising and the impact it leavesDo Mangoes cause body heat? What happens when you eat too many Mangoes, doctor explains6 simple tips to keep your pet safe during extreme heatwaveFeeling anxious or low? These common vitamin deficiencies could be the hidden reasonAnushka Sharma birthday special: Must-watch films on OTT like ‘NH10’, ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’, ‘Band Baaja Baaraat’, ‘Sultan’5 fashion hacks all of us can steal from King CharlesUnderground shortcut: Delhi airport’s new subway to slash T2–T3 walking distance by 90%123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal ElectionPM ModiAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingStock Market Holiday TodayBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna07 mins mins

AI-generated image use for representation NEW DELHI: The Banglar ‘manush’ have traditionally displayed a deep-rooted political loyalty, often rallying decisively behind a single political force and allowing it to govern for extended periods. Over nearly eight decades since independence, West Bengal’s political journey has not merely been a sequence of governments changing hands, but a…

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May 01, 2026, 20:24 IST

May 01, 2026, 20:24 IST

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Ayush Shetty (BWF/Badminton Photo) NEW DELHI: India’s march into the semifinals of the Thomas Cup has been powered not just by performance but by growing belief, with young shuttler Ayush Shetty declaring that the team – champion in 2022 – is confident of going the distance and reclaiming the title.Having sealed India’s emphatic 3-0 quarterfinal…

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IPL 2026 | Jason Holder catch controversy: ‘Sufficient evidence for not out’ says Ian Bishop on Rajat Patidar wicket

IPL 2026 | Jason Holder catch controversy: ‘Sufficient evidence for not out’ says Ian Bishop on Rajat Patidar wicket

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Rajat Patidar and Jason Holder (Image credit: BCCI/IPL) NEW DELHI: Was Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar out or not out? Did Jason Holder take a clean catch? The debate continues to gather momentum, with several former cricketers weighing in. Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop has now joined the discussion, sharing his views on…

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SC knock, repolling, intensified TMC vs BJP: West Bengal on edge before counting day | India News

SC knock, repolling, intensified TMC vs BJP: West Bengal on edge before counting day | India News

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Suvendu Adhikari; Mamata Banerjee NEW DELHI: With just two days to go for counting, West Bengal has slipped into a high-alert mode where parties are contesting on the field with fresh court moves, strongroom vigil and allegations against each other.The ruling All India Trinamool Congress on Friday moved the Supreme Court challenging a Calcutta high…

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University of Chicago honours former CEA Krishnamurthy V Subramanian with top alumni award

University of Chicago honours former CEA Krishnamurthy V Subramanian with top alumni award

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

The University of Chicago on Friday said it has conferred its prestigious Alumni Award for Professional Achievement to India’s former chief economic adviser Krishnamurthy V Subramanian.Subramanian is the first Indian economist to receive the honour since its inception in 1941, placing him in an elite global cohort that includes Nobel laureates and intellectual giants such…

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ICSE Class 10 Results: Shimla’s identical twins score near-identical marks get over 99% each

ICSE Class 10 Results: Shimla’s identical twins score near-identical marks get over 99% each

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Shimla has seen twin success stories this year as identical sisters Avisha Syal and Sirisha Syal from Auckland House School for Girls topped the ICSE Class 10 examination. Avisha scored 99.4 per cent, while Sirisha followed closely with 99.2 per cent.Speaking to PTI, the sisters shared their reaction soon after the results were announced. They…

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Saroj Khan embraced Islam for her second husband as he accepted her condition to adopt her children from previous relationship

Saroj Khan embraced Islam for her second husband as he accepted her condition to adopt her children from previous relationship

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Saroj Khan, who passed away on July 3, 2020, was considered one of the best choreographers that Indian cinema ever saw. Known for creating unforgettable dance sequences like ‘Ek Do Teen’ and ‘Dola Re Dola’, among many others, her professional achievements were monumental, but her personal life saw a lot of struggles and trauma. Yet,…

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OpenAI addresses ‘ChatGPT obsession’ with Goblins and Gremlins, AI Agents: Never talk about …

OpenAI addresses ‘ChatGPT obsession’ with Goblins and Gremlins, AI Agents: Never talk about …

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

ChatGPT recently started spurting an unusual number of references to goblins, gremlins, raccoons, trolls, or pigeons – mythical creatures and small animals in its responses, slipping them into metaphors and explanations. Then, earlier this week, a developer spotted in the source code of Codex a very specific instruction. The sentence appeared not once, but four…

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TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee NEW DELHI: The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Friday moved Supreme Court against the Calcutta high court’s order rejecting the plea challenging deployment of only central government’s staff at couting centers on May 4.The Mamata Banerjee’s party had challenged the poll duty assigned to central government and PSU (Public Sector Undertaking) employees as supervisors in the vote counting.The high court told the TMC that appointing central or state officers as counting supervisors is the Election Commission’s prerogative. It said that if central officers are found to have manipulated counting and favoured the BJP, the party can file an election petition. Earlier, the court had asked why only central officers were being appointed, to which the EC replied that the same practice was followed in Kerala.Justice Krishna Rao, hearing the case, asked EC, “If there is an objection, can the Election Commission not adjudicate? Why are you not going for the state govt?” The HC also pointed out that the statute allows the ECI to appoint employees from either the state govt or central govt and employees of PSUs for the role.EC counsel Dama Seshadri Naidu replied, “We have done that in Kerala. We have not singled out any state. As the situation demands, we do that.”Senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee, appearing for the petitioner, questioned, “Do you disbelieve these state govt employees? You have conducted the entire election with state govt staff. Why are you adopting a discriminatory approach towards West Bengal? In all, 2,500 companies have been brought here. If even one company had been in Pahalgam, those 26 people would not have been killed.”Justice Rao in his order said, “Section 100 of the Representation of the People Act provides that any noncompliance with the provisions of the Constitution of this Act or of any rules or orders made under this Act shall be grounds for declaring election to be void and thus, if the petitioner finds that during the counting, the central govt employees who have been appointed as counting supervisor and counting assistants favoured the candi-date of the BJP due to which the candidate of the petitioner defeated, the petitioner has the liberty to challenge the same in an election petition.”The high court also said while dismissing the petition, “It is the prerogative of the office of the Election Commission of India to appoint the counting supervisor and counting assistant either from the state govt or the central govt. This court does not find any illegality for appointing counting supervisor and counting assistant from the central govt / central PSU employee instead of state govt employee.”The high court also said, “Only the counting supervisor and the counting assistants will not be in the counting room. Micro observers, counting agents of the candidates who are contesting the election and counting personnel will also be in the counting room. Thus, it is impossible to believe the allegation made by the petitioner.” 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 MediaVideosRahul Gandhi Flags Fuel Price Surge After ₹993 LPG Hike, Warns Petrol-Diesel Could Be NextPunjab Assembly Chaos | CM Bhagwant Mann Allegedly ‘Intoxicated’, Opposition Demands Alcohol TestPakistan admits fuel vulnerability amid global oil shock; compares energy security with IndiaCommercial LPG Surges Past ₹3000, Hotels Warn Of Price Hike Impact | WatchTrust Vote Drama In Punjab: BJP Boycott, Congress Walkout Rocks HouseIndia-Bangladesh Row: Dhaka Summons Indian Envoy Over Assam CM Himanta’s RemarksJabalpur Cruise Boat Capsize: 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue at Bargi Dam in Madhya PradeshChanakya Today Exit Poll: BJP Sweep In Bengal, DMK Ahead In TN, Assam Favours NDAUS Hands Back 657 Stolen Antiquities Worth Million To India, Exposes Global Smuggling NetworksNaval Anti-ship Missile : Navy, Drdo Demonstrate Salvo Launch That Can Sink Ships123PhotostoriesHow Raghav Chadha’s mango shake differs from a regular mango shake; details insideRaw mango vs ripe mango: Which is a safer, smarter choice for people living with diabetes?From Daffodils to Castor beans: 5 Plants that can be deadly for your pet dog5 situations where staying silent is powerfulSons vs daughters: 5 ways parents treat them differently without realising and the impact it leavesDo Mangoes cause body heat? What happens when you eat too many Mangoes, doctor explains6 simple tips to keep your pet safe during extreme heatwaveFeeling anxious or low? These common vitamin deficiencies could be the hidden reasonAnushka Sharma birthday special: Must-watch films on OTT like ‘NH10’, ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’, ‘Band Baaja Baaraat’, ‘Sultan’5 fashion hacks all of us can steal from King Charles123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal ElectionPM ModiAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingStock Market Holiday TodayBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap

TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee NEW DELHI: The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Friday moved Supreme Court against the Calcutta high court’s order rejecting the plea challenging deployment of only central government’s staff at couting centers on May 4.The Mamata Banerjee’s party had challenged the poll duty assigned to central government and PSU (Public Sector Undertaking) employees as supervisors in the vote counting.The high court told the TMC that appointing central or state officers as counting supervisors is the Election Commission’s prerogative. It said that if central officers are found to have manipulated counting and favoured the BJP, the party can file an election petition. Earlier, the court had asked why only central officers were being appointed, to which the EC replied that the same practice was followed in Kerala.Justice Krishna Rao, hearing the case, asked EC, “If there is an objection, can the Election Commission not adjudicate? Why are you not going for the state govt?” The HC also pointed out that the statute allows the ECI to appoint employees from either the state govt or central govt and employees of PSUs for the role.EC counsel Dama Seshadri Naidu replied, “We have done that in Kerala. We have not singled out any state. As the situation demands, we do that.”Senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee, appearing for the petitioner, questioned, “Do you disbelieve these state govt employees? You have conducted the entire election with state govt staff. Why are you adopting a discriminatory approach towards West Bengal? In all, 2,500 companies have been brought here. If even one company had been in Pahalgam, those 26 people would not have been killed.”Justice Rao in his order said, “Section 100 of the Representation of the People Act provides that any noncompliance with the provisions of the Constitution of this Act or of any rules or orders made under this Act shall be grounds for declaring election to be void and thus, if the petitioner finds that during the counting, the central govt employees who have been appointed as counting supervisor and counting assistants favoured the candi-date of the BJP due to which the candidate of the petitioner defeated, the petitioner has the liberty to challenge the same in an election petition.”The high court also said while dismissing the petition, “It is the prerogative of the office of the Election Commission of India to appoint the counting supervisor and counting assistant either from the state govt or the central govt. This court does not find any illegality for appointing counting supervisor and counting assistant from the central govt / central PSU employee instead of state govt employee.”The high court also said, “Only the counting supervisor and the counting assistants will not be in the counting room. Micro observers, counting agents of the candidates who are contesting the election and counting personnel will also be in the counting room. Thus, it is impossible to believe the allegation made by the petitioner.” 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 MediaVideosRahul Gandhi Flags Fuel Price Surge After ₹993 LPG Hike, Warns Petrol-Diesel Could Be NextPunjab Assembly Chaos | CM Bhagwant Mann Allegedly ‘Intoxicated’, Opposition Demands Alcohol TestPakistan admits fuel vulnerability amid global oil shock; compares energy security with IndiaCommercial LPG Surges Past ₹3000, Hotels Warn Of Price Hike Impact | WatchTrust Vote Drama In Punjab: BJP Boycott, Congress Walkout Rocks HouseIndia-Bangladesh Row: Dhaka Summons Indian Envoy Over Assam CM Himanta’s RemarksJabalpur Cruise Boat Capsize: 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue at Bargi Dam in Madhya PradeshChanakya Today Exit Poll: BJP Sweep In Bengal, DMK Ahead In TN, Assam Favours NDAUS Hands Back 657 Stolen Antiquities Worth $14 Million To India, Exposes Global Smuggling NetworksNaval Anti-ship Missile : Navy, Drdo Demonstrate Salvo Launch That Can Sink Ships123PhotostoriesHow Raghav Chadha’s mango shake differs from a regular mango shake; details insideRaw mango vs ripe mango: Which is a safer, smarter choice for people living with diabetes?From Daffodils to Castor beans: 5 Plants that can be deadly for your pet dog5 situations where staying silent is powerfulSons vs daughters: 5 ways parents treat them differently without realising and the impact it leavesDo Mangoes cause body heat? 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Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee NEW DELHI: The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Friday moved Supreme Court against the Calcutta high court’s order rejecting the plea challenging deployment of only central government’s staff at couting centers on May 4.The Mamata Banerjee’s party had challenged the poll duty assigned to central government and PSU (Public Sector Undertaking)…

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May 01, 2026, 19:55 IST

May 01, 2026, 19:55 IST

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (BCCI Photo) NEW DELHI: The much-hyped face-off between Mitchell Starc and teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi turned into an anti-climax as Kyle Jamieson stole the early spotlight in the IPL 2026 clash between Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals at Jaipur on Friday.With anticipation building around Starc’s first appearance of the season and his duel…

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US stock markets today (May 1, 2026): Wall Street heads for fresh records; Apple rallies as oil prices cool

US stock markets today (May 1, 2026): Wall Street heads for fresh records; Apple rallies as oil prices cool

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Wall Street moved higher on Friday and edged closer to fresh record highs as strong quarterly earnings from Apple, Estee Lauder and other companies lifted sentiment while a mild retreat in oil prices offered additional support.The S&P 500 rose 0.6 per cent, extending gains after closing at an all-time high on Thursday. The Dow Jones…

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