August 11, 2026

2026

Jared Leto swung ‘For The Fences’ as Skeletor, says Travis Knight

Jared Leto swung ‘For The Fences’ as Skeletor, says Travis Knight

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

In a thrilling announcement, Director Travis Knight shares insights into Jared Leto’s riveting interpretation of Skeletor in the eagerly awaited ‘Masters of the Universe’ film. Leto brings a captivating mix of menace, wit, and underlying vulnerability to the notorious villain, redefining this beloved character with depth and nuance. Travis Knight is opening up about the…

Read More
Gurugram man with rare gastrointestinal stromal tumor, dangerously low BP underwent successful robotic surgery

Gurugram man with rare gastrointestinal stromal tumor, dangerously low BP underwent successful robotic surgery

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Medical emergencies don’t usually come with much warning. One moment everything feels manageable, and the next, the body starts giving serious signals that something is very wrong. This case began that way. A young man from Gurugram arrived at the emergency department feeling weak and dizzy, passing black stools, and struggling with a sudden drop…

Read More
Rohit Pawar and Ajit Pawar (Images/Agencies) NEW DELHI: NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar on Saturday said that he will present a detailed presentation on February 10 on the air crash that killed Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. He said that questions and doubts persist over the circumstances of the incident, which will be addressed during the briefing in Mumbai.Speaking to reporters after casting his vote in the Zilla Parishad elections in Baramati, Rohit Pawar said that several questions remained unanswered about how and why the crash occurred. He added that the forthcoming presentation would address these concerns in detail.“Everyone has questions and doubts in their minds. Why the crash happened and how it might have happened—these issues will be raised on February 10,” he said.The Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections in Maharashtra were held on Saturday for 12 Zilla Parishads and 125 Panchayat Samitis. The polls had earlier been postponed following Ajit Pawar’s death in the air crash on January 28.Ajit Pawar was killed along with four others when a chartered Learjet aircraft crashed while attempting to land at the table-top airstrip in Baramati, Pune district. Those killed included his personal security officer, the pilot, co-pilot and a flight attendant.Rohit Pawar said that the late leader had wished for unity between the rival factions of the Nationalist Congress Party and that efforts toward a merger would continue. The NCP (SP), led by Sharad Pawar and the NCP have jointly contested the Zilla Parishad elections, with candidates fighting on the latter’s ‘clock’ symbol.“Ajit Dada sincerely wished that everyone should come together as one family. Everyone has come together today. Dada had made efforts, and we will continue to make efforts in the same manner. The family is still united,” Rohit Pawar said.Earlier, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that Ajit Pawar’s death could be the result of a political conspiracy and demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe.Citing reports that Pawar was considering leaving the BJP and rejoining the NCP (SP) led by Sharad Pawar, Banerjee said, “I demand a proper investigation under the supervision of the Supreme Court. We have trust only in the Supreme Court. All other agencies have been completely compromised.”She described Pawar’s death as a major loss and said he was expected to return to the original faction of his party.The Opposition MLA, who represents the Karjat-Jamkhed constituency in Ahilyanagar district, also said that he would explain the reasons and intent behind the proposed party merger on February 12.“I will explain why the merger was supposed to happen and for what purpose. Whether Ajit Dada’s intention was political or emotional, I will clarify this on February 12,” he said.On the investigation into the crash, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol said that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) were making rapid progress.Providing an update, Mohol said the aircraft’s black box had been recovered and was being analysed.“The black box has been recovered, and the AAIB team and the DGCA are working on it. The data will be downloaded, followed by analysis and an inquiry. A preliminary report will be released after that,” Mohol said.He added that investigation teams from the AAIB and the DGCA’s Mumbai Regional Office reached the crash site on the day of the incident and that the AAIB Director General personally oversaw the initial probe.The investigation is being conducted under Rules 5 and 11 of the AAIB Rules, 2025, to determine the sequence of events during the aircraft’s attempted landing amid reported poor visibility.Authorities have cautioned against drawing premature conclusions, stating that the findings will be based on technical analysis of the black box data.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 MediaVideosPM Modi In Kuala Lumpur Says India Malaysia Ties Are Rising, Unveils IMPACT Vision For Asia”To Benefit Farmers….” Shivraj Singh Chouhan Big Claim On India-US Trade DealPiyush Goyal Says Agriculture Is Self Reliant Sector As India Refuses Farm Import Benefits To USFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory’Home-Grown Ills’: Islamabad Mosque Blast Triggers Blame Game As India Rejects Pakistan’s BlameEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Says India Outsmarted Donald Trump Chaos By Sticking To Trade ProcessEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Backs India Red Line On Russian Oil As US Trade Deal Drops MentionIndia-US Trade Deal Explained: What The White House Says On Tariffs, Markets And Tech Shifts123PhotostoriesThomas Edison once said, “I’ve not failed, I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work”: 4 lessons it teaches students6 celebrities who called out social media as ‘toxic’: Tom Holland, Selena Gomez, Kate Winslet, and moreThe ultimate footwear checklist every girl needs in her closet5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projectsFrom Anil Kapoor to Janhvi, meet ‘ Tu Yaa Main’ actress Shanaya Kapoor’s star relativesChennai airport soars: 80% on-time flights beat private giantsMumbai prepares for faster commute as WEH-BKC connector enters final stageTop 10 iconic Japanese fast foods you need to try at least once7 must-try winter street foods in ChandigarhUpcoming OTT releases for this week: ‘Kohrra Season 2’, ‘The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4,’ and more123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingSuper Bowl TrophyCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

Rohit Pawar and Ajit Pawar (Images/Agencies) NEW DELHI: NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar on Saturday said that he will present a detailed presentation on February 10 on the air crash that killed Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. He said that questions and doubts persist over the circumstances of the incident, which will be addressed during the briefing in Mumbai.Speaking to reporters after casting his vote in the Zilla Parishad elections in Baramati, Rohit Pawar said that several questions remained unanswered about how and why the crash occurred. He added that the forthcoming presentation would address these concerns in detail.“Everyone has questions and doubts in their minds. Why the crash happened and how it might have happened—these issues will be raised on February 10,” he said.The Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections in Maharashtra were held on Saturday for 12 Zilla Parishads and 125 Panchayat Samitis. The polls had earlier been postponed following Ajit Pawar’s death in the air crash on January 28.Ajit Pawar was killed along with four others when a chartered Learjet aircraft crashed while attempting to land at the table-top airstrip in Baramati, Pune district. Those killed included his personal security officer, the pilot, co-pilot and a flight attendant.Rohit Pawar said that the late leader had wished for unity between the rival factions of the Nationalist Congress Party and that efforts toward a merger would continue. The NCP (SP), led by Sharad Pawar and the NCP have jointly contested the Zilla Parishad elections, with candidates fighting on the latter’s ‘clock’ symbol.“Ajit Dada sincerely wished that everyone should come together as one family. Everyone has come together today. Dada had made efforts, and we will continue to make efforts in the same manner. The family is still united,” Rohit Pawar said.Earlier, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee alleged that Ajit Pawar’s death could be the result of a political conspiracy and demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe.Citing reports that Pawar was considering leaving the BJP and rejoining the NCP (SP) led by Sharad Pawar, Banerjee said, “I demand a proper investigation under the supervision of the Supreme Court. We have trust only in the Supreme Court. All other agencies have been completely compromised.”She described Pawar’s death as a major loss and said he was expected to return to the original faction of his party.The Opposition MLA, who represents the Karjat-Jamkhed constituency in Ahilyanagar district, also said that he would explain the reasons and intent behind the proposed party merger on February 12.“I will explain why the merger was supposed to happen and for what purpose. Whether Ajit Dada’s intention was political or emotional, I will clarify this on February 12,” he said.On the investigation into the crash, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol said that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) were making rapid progress.Providing an update, Mohol said the aircraft’s black box had been recovered and was being analysed.“The black box has been recovered, and the AAIB team and the DGCA are working on it. The data will be downloaded, followed by analysis and an inquiry. A preliminary report will be released after that,” Mohol said.He added that investigation teams from the AAIB and the DGCA’s Mumbai Regional Office reached the crash site on the day of the incident and that the AAIB Director General personally oversaw the initial probe.The investigation is being conducted under Rules 5 and 11 of the AAIB Rules, 2025, to determine the sequence of events during the aircraft’s attempted landing amid reported poor visibility.Authorities have cautioned against drawing premature conclusions, stating that the findings will be based on technical analysis of the black box data.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 MediaVideosPM Modi In Kuala Lumpur Says India Malaysia Ties Are Rising, Unveils IMPACT Vision For Asia”To Benefit Farmers….” Shivraj Singh Chouhan Big Claim On India-US Trade DealPiyush Goyal Says Agriculture Is Self Reliant Sector As India Refuses Farm Import Benefits To USFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory’Home-Grown Ills’: Islamabad Mosque Blast Triggers Blame Game As India Rejects Pakistan’s BlameEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Says India Outsmarted Donald Trump Chaos By Sticking To Trade ProcessEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Backs India Red Line On Russian Oil As US Trade Deal Drops MentionIndia-US Trade Deal Explained: What The White House Says On Tariffs, Markets And Tech Shifts123PhotostoriesThomas Edison once said, “I’ve not failed, I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work”: 4 lessons it teaches students6 celebrities who called out social media as ‘toxic’: Tom Holland, Selena Gomez, Kate Winslet, and moreThe ultimate footwear checklist every girl needs in her closet5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projectsFrom Anil Kapoor to Janhvi, meet ‘ Tu Yaa Main’ actress Shanaya Kapoor’s star relativesChennai airport soars: 80% on-time flights beat private giantsMumbai prepares for faster commute as WEH-BKC connector enters final stageTop 10 iconic Japanese fast foods you need to try at least once7 must-try winter street foods in ChandigarhUpcoming OTT releases for this week: ‘Kohrra Season 2’, ‘The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4,’ and more123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingSuper Bowl TrophyCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Rohit Pawar and Ajit Pawar (Images/Agencies) NEW DELHI: NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar on Saturday said that he will present a detailed presentation on February 10 on the air crash that killed Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. He said that questions and doubts persist over the circumstances of the incident, which will be addressed…

Read More
Feb 07, 2026, 16:44 IST

Feb 07, 2026, 16:44 IST

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Afghanistan’s captain Rashid Khan (PTI Photo) Afghanistan’s cricketers have toured continents, lifted trophies and earned global recognition, yet one deeply personal ambition remains unrealised — the chance to play an international match on home soil. For Rashid Khan, that absence still outweighs any silverware collected abroad. Decades of conflict have meant Afghanistan has never hosted…

Read More
‘Discussed the final-minute preparations’: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia ahead of India’s T20 World Cup opener

‘Discussed the final-minute preparations’: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia ahead of India’s T20 World Cup opener

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Devajit Saikia with Team India ahead of T20 World Cup opener (Photo by @lonsaikia on X) NEW DELHI: As India get ready for their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2026, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said he checked the team’s last-minute preparations and match arrangements at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. He shared on X, “Inspected…

Read More
External factors unlikely to disrupt India-China trade as both back multilateral trade, says Consul General Qin Jie

External factors unlikely to disrupt India-China trade as both back multilateral trade, says Consul General Qin Jie

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

India-China trade is unlikely to be influenced by external geopolitical or economic developments, as both countries are large economies that support multilateralism and global trade frameworks, China’s Consul General in Mumbai Qin Jie said on Saturday.Speaking to PTI on the sidelines of the International Business Conclave at Advantage Vidarbha 2026 in Nagpur, the diplomat said…

Read More
When everyone gets an A, does excellence still matter? Harvard moves to make grades mean something again

When everyone gets an A, does excellence still matter? Harvard moves to make grades mean something again

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

For decades, an “A” at Harvard carried an unspoken promise. It was meant to signal intellectual distinction, an outcome earned through exceptional work rather than quietly expected as a baseline. Somewhere along the way, that promise frayed. By last year, nearly two-thirds of all undergraduate letter grades at the world’s most famous university were A’s,…

Read More
Ekta Kapoor recalls pitching ‘Naagin’ to Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra: ‘Will India watch?’ asks Kaif

Ekta Kapoor recalls pitching ‘Naagin’ to Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra: ‘Will India watch?’ asks Kaif

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Once envisioned as a grand Bollywood spectacle, Ekta Kapoor’s ‘Naagin’ faced skepticism when she approached A-list stars like Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who questioned its potential in the crowded cinema landscape. Undeterred, Kapoor shifted gears to television, where the show turned into a phenomenal success, demonstrating that an engaging narrative can triumph over…

Read More
Why the first two years of parenting may decide a child’s future health

Why the first two years of parenting may decide a child’s future health

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Recent research has shed light on the profound influence of early father-child relationships on a child’s long-term heart and metabolic wellness. Involved fathers who actively engage with their infants not only enhance parenting cooperation but also create a foundation for healthier outcomes, including lower inflammation and improved blood sugar levels as the child reaches age…

Read More
Leo, Weekly Horoscope, February 08 to February 14, 2026: Relationships demand maturity early

Leo, Weekly Horoscope, February 08 to February 14, 2026: Relationships demand maturity early

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Leo natives begin the week under pressure. The Sun faces challenging aspects, making responsibilities feel heavier than usual. Workload increases, and mental restlessness may trouble you. Early days require patience, especially while dealing with neighbours, colleagues, or daily travel. You may reconnect with an old friend or attend a local gathering, which helps lighten your…

Read More
‘Keeping Indian wife happy’: Row over Republican congressman saying Texans go to malls and ‘feel like they’re in Pakistan’

‘Keeping Indian wife happy’: Row over Republican congressman saying Texans go to malls and ‘feel like they’re in Pakistan’

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

A Republican congressman stirred a row after warning that Texans should not visit shopping centres and feel like they are in Pakistan, with social media saying the comments were made in order to appease his wife, who is of Indian origin.Brandon Gill is a Texas conservative leader who made the comments in a recent episode…

Read More
NEW DELHI: The recent patch-up and the ‘all is good’ moment between Shashi Tharoor and the Congress high command have given the Congress in Kerala much-needed momentum ahead of the April–May assembly elections. Tharoor’s meeting with Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi, after weeks of speculations about his strained ties with the party, has ended what many within the Congress described as an “awkward episode” and positioned him as a central campaign face for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).At a time when the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) is battling incumbency fatigue and the BJP is testing the limits of its expansion in the state, the reconciliation gives the UDF a renewed sense of coherence and momentum.Also read | Congress vs Tharoor: A new beginning or temporary truce?’All is good’ at a critical momentThe recent Tharoor–Congress thaw sends a strong signal of unity to cadres and allies alike at a crucial time. Tharoor reportedly had been upset over the treatment meted out to him by Rahul Gandhi at a Kochi event recently and attempts by some leaders to sideline him in Kerala.For a party often in crisis over factionalism in its state units, the optics in Kerala were damaging.The reconciliation addressed that head-on. The leader of the opposition in the assembly, VD Satheesan’s faction, and leaders seen as sympathetic to Tharoor now have little room for parallel power centres.The warmth also saves Congress from embarrassment in front of its own LDF allies.Last year, as Tharoor had pointed out, “absence of a leader” in the Kerala party unit, Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) chief Sadiq Ali Thangal had publicly asked the Congress to resolve internal differences, warning that visible discord would only benefit rivals. By bringing Tharoor back in confidence, that concern has now been allayed.This unity boost matters electorally.Since the late 1980s, Kerala voters have flipped governments every five years between the UDF and the LDF. However, this changed in the 2021 assembly polls, when the LDF failed to make gains and the LDF under Pinarayi Vijayan won a second consecutive term.The LDF improved its tally from 91 seats in 2016 to 99 in 2021, while the UDF dropped from 47 to 41 seats.Tharoor’s voter magnetismIn the 2021 assembly polls, the biggest drive for the LDF sweep came from the Travancore belt, which includes Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta and Kottayam. The LDF won a majority of seats in Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, traditionally swing-heavy areas. Tharoor’s Lok Sabha seat, Thiruvananthapuram, had also historically been a swing constituency, alternating between the Congress and the Left, and more recently becoming a BJP target seat. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP fielded Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar against Tharoor, but the Congress leader retained the seat for the fourth time by over 16,000 votes. The UDF swept 18 of 20 Lok Sabha seats.Tharoor’s appeal has been particularly visible among educated, salaried and first-time voters, segments that have shown increasing volatility in recent state and local elections. This cohort has not consistently aligned with the Congress organisation and has, at times, been receptive to the BJP’s urban outreach or the LDF’s governance pitch. Tharoor’s sustained wins in Thiruvananthapuram suggest an ability to arrest that drift, even when broader party trends are mixed.At a strategic level, this gives the UDF a pathway to expand beyond its traditional social bases without alienating them. Urban centres such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode, where turnout fluctuates and margins are often narrow, are likely to play an outsized role in 2026. Tharoor’s presence allows the Congress to contest these spaces more credibly, particularly at a time when the BJP has signalled intent through incremental municipal gains and a recent mayoral victory.The Congress leadership’s decision to deploy Tharoor as a campaign spearhead, tasked with touring all 140 constituencies, adds star power to a contest that often hinges on narrative dominance. Tharoor’s oratory, media presence and ability to frame local issues within a national and global context give the UDF an edge in reaching undecided voters.Countering LDF and BJP narrativesThe patch-up blunts rival narratives at once. For the BJP, which has repeatedly highlighted Congress infighting to project itself as a disciplined alternative (recently by also using Tharoor’s name frequently), the reconciliation weakens the “internal chaos” line of attack.This comes at a moment when the BJP is seeking to capitalise on its recent mayoral win in Thiruvananthapuram municipal corporation, a symbolic breakthrough that signalled growing urban traction, even if assembly-level success remains elusive.Moreover, Tharoor’s active presence on the campaign trail is likely to help the UDF attract the younger demographic, especially aspirants and educated youth. The Congress leader’s credibility as an author, diplomat and global speaker also gives him unique traction among voters in Kerala, given the state’s high literacy rate.Both the LDF and the BJP-led NDA have also often portrayed the Congress as dynastic and directionless. The image of Tharoor standing alongside Rahul Gandhi will undercut those claims, at least for now.Risks contained, momentum regainedPerhaps the most immediate benefit of the reconciliation is risk mitigation. Speculation that Tharoor might drift towards the LDF or even explore non-Congress platforms has been firmly quashed. His integration into the Congress election campaign gives a message of consistency.The memory of 2021 still looms large for Congress strategists. Despite favourable anti-incumbency indicators then, the UDF failed to convert opportunity into victory. The Tharoor patch-up is being seen as a corrective step, aimed at ensuring that organisational weaknesses do not once again squander political openings.By restoring unity, the Congress-Tharoor patch-up gives the opposition UDF a credible shot at turning the page after years of Left rule. Whether it translates into seats in elections will depend on execution, alliances and local dynamics, but for now with this ‘Hum Saath Saath Hai’ image, the UDF has scored an early and much-needed win before heading into the elections.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 MediaVideosPM Modi In Kuala Lumpur Says India Malaysia Ties Are Rising, Unveils IMPACT Vision For Asia”To Benefit Farmers….” Shivraj Singh Chouhan Big Claim On India-US Trade DealPiyush Goyal Says Agriculture Is Self Reliant Sector As India Refuses Farm Import Benefits To USFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory’Home-Grown Ills’: Islamabad Mosque Blast Triggers Blame Game As India Rejects Pakistan’s BlameEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Says India Outsmarted Donald Trump Chaos By Sticking To Trade ProcessEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Backs India Red Line On Russian Oil As US Trade Deal Drops MentionIndia-US Trade Deal Explained: What The White House Says On Tariffs, Markets And Tech Shifts123Photostories6 celebrities who called out social media as ‘toxic’: Tom Holland, Selena Gomez, Kate Winslet, and moreThe ultimate footwear checklist every girl needs in her closet5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projectsFrom Anil Kapoor to Janhvi, meet ‘ Tu Yaa Main’ actress Shanaya Kapoor’s star relativesChennai airport soars: 80% on-time flights beat private giantsMumbai prepares for faster commute as WEH-BKC connector enters final stageTop 10 iconic Japanese fast foods you need to try at least once7 must-try winter street foods in ChandigarhUpcoming OTT releases for this week: ‘Kohrra Season 2’, ‘The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4,’ and moreTop luxury trekking motorbikes in 2026: Premium rides for rugged adventures123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingSuper Bowl TrophyCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

NEW DELHI: The recent patch-up and the ‘all is good’ moment between Shashi Tharoor and the Congress high command have given the Congress in Kerala much-needed momentum ahead of the April–May assembly elections. Tharoor’s meeting with Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi, after weeks of speculations about his strained ties with the party, has ended what many within the Congress described as an “awkward episode” and positioned him as a central campaign face for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF).At a time when the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) is battling incumbency fatigue and the BJP is testing the limits of its expansion in the state, the reconciliation gives the UDF a renewed sense of coherence and momentum.Also read | Congress vs Tharoor: A new beginning or temporary truce?’All is good’ at a critical momentThe recent Tharoor–Congress thaw sends a strong signal of unity to cadres and allies alike at a crucial time. Tharoor reportedly had been upset over the treatment meted out to him by Rahul Gandhi at a Kochi event recently and attempts by some leaders to sideline him in Kerala.For a party often in crisis over factionalism in its state units, the optics in Kerala were damaging.The reconciliation addressed that head-on. The leader of the opposition in the assembly, VD Satheesan’s faction, and leaders seen as sympathetic to Tharoor now have little room for parallel power centres.The warmth also saves Congress from embarrassment in front of its own LDF allies.Last year, as Tharoor had pointed out, “absence of a leader” in the Kerala party unit, Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) chief Sadiq Ali Thangal had publicly asked the Congress to resolve internal differences, warning that visible discord would only benefit rivals. By bringing Tharoor back in confidence, that concern has now been allayed.This unity boost matters electorally.Since the late 1980s, Kerala voters have flipped governments every five years between the UDF and the LDF. However, this changed in the 2021 assembly polls, when the LDF failed to make gains and the LDF under Pinarayi Vijayan won a second consecutive term.The LDF improved its tally from 91 seats in 2016 to 99 in 2021, while the UDF dropped from 47 to 41 seats.Tharoor’s voter magnetismIn the 2021 assembly polls, the biggest drive for the LDF sweep came from the Travancore belt, which includes Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta and Kottayam. The LDF won a majority of seats in Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, traditionally swing-heavy areas. Tharoor’s Lok Sabha seat, Thiruvananthapuram, had also historically been a swing constituency, alternating between the Congress and the Left, and more recently becoming a BJP target seat. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP fielded Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar against Tharoor, but the Congress leader retained the seat for the fourth time by over 16,000 votes. The UDF swept 18 of 20 Lok Sabha seats.Tharoor’s appeal has been particularly visible among educated, salaried and first-time voters, segments that have shown increasing volatility in recent state and local elections. This cohort has not consistently aligned with the Congress organisation and has, at times, been receptive to the BJP’s urban outreach or the LDF’s governance pitch. Tharoor’s sustained wins in Thiruvananthapuram suggest an ability to arrest that drift, even when broader party trends are mixed.At a strategic level, this gives the UDF a pathway to expand beyond its traditional social bases without alienating them. Urban centres such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode, where turnout fluctuates and margins are often narrow, are likely to play an outsized role in 2026. Tharoor’s presence allows the Congress to contest these spaces more credibly, particularly at a time when the BJP has signalled intent through incremental municipal gains and a recent mayoral victory.The Congress leadership’s decision to deploy Tharoor as a campaign spearhead, tasked with touring all 140 constituencies, adds star power to a contest that often hinges on narrative dominance. Tharoor’s oratory, media presence and ability to frame local issues within a national and global context give the UDF an edge in reaching undecided voters.Countering LDF and BJP narrativesThe patch-up blunts rival narratives at once. For the BJP, which has repeatedly highlighted Congress infighting to project itself as a disciplined alternative (recently by also using Tharoor’s name frequently), the reconciliation weakens the “internal chaos” line of attack.This comes at a moment when the BJP is seeking to capitalise on its recent mayoral win in Thiruvananthapuram municipal corporation, a symbolic breakthrough that signalled growing urban traction, even if assembly-level success remains elusive.Moreover, Tharoor’s active presence on the campaign trail is likely to help the UDF attract the younger demographic, especially aspirants and educated youth. The Congress leader’s credibility as an author, diplomat and global speaker also gives him unique traction among voters in Kerala, given the state’s high literacy rate.Both the LDF and the BJP-led NDA have also often portrayed the Congress as dynastic and directionless. The image of Tharoor standing alongside Rahul Gandhi will undercut those claims, at least for now.Risks contained, momentum regainedPerhaps the most immediate benefit of the reconciliation is risk mitigation. Speculation that Tharoor might drift towards the LDF or even explore non-Congress platforms has been firmly quashed. His integration into the Congress election campaign gives a message of consistency.The memory of 2021 still looms large for Congress strategists. Despite favourable anti-incumbency indicators then, the UDF failed to convert opportunity into victory. The Tharoor patch-up is being seen as a corrective step, aimed at ensuring that organisational weaknesses do not once again squander political openings.By restoring unity, the Congress-Tharoor patch-up gives the opposition UDF a credible shot at turning the page after years of Left rule. Whether it translates into seats in elections will depend on execution, alliances and local dynamics, but for now with this ‘Hum Saath Saath Hai’ image, the UDF has scored an early and much-needed win before heading into the elections.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 MediaVideosPM Modi In Kuala Lumpur Says India Malaysia Ties Are Rising, Unveils IMPACT Vision For Asia”To Benefit Farmers….” Shivraj Singh Chouhan Big Claim On India-US Trade DealPiyush Goyal Says Agriculture Is Self Reliant Sector As India Refuses Farm Import Benefits To USFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory’Home-Grown Ills’: Islamabad Mosque Blast Triggers Blame Game As India Rejects Pakistan’s BlameEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Says India Outsmarted Donald Trump Chaos By Sticking To Trade ProcessEx-US Official Raymond Vickery Backs India Red Line On Russian Oil As US Trade Deal Drops MentionIndia-US Trade Deal Explained: What The White House Says On Tariffs, Markets And Tech Shifts123Photostories6 celebrities who called out social media as ‘toxic’: Tom Holland, Selena Gomez, Kate Winslet, and moreThe ultimate footwear checklist every girl needs in her closet5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projectsFrom Anil Kapoor to Janhvi, meet ‘ Tu Yaa Main’ actress Shanaya Kapoor’s star relativesChennai airport soars: 80% on-time flights beat private giantsMumbai prepares for faster commute as WEH-BKC connector enters final stageTop 10 iconic Japanese fast foods you need to try at least once7 must-try winter street foods in ChandigarhUpcoming OTT releases for this week: ‘Kohrra Season 2’, ‘The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4,’ and moreTop luxury trekking motorbikes in 2026: Premium rides for rugged adventures123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingSuper Bowl TrophyCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

NEW DELHI: The recent patch-up and the ‘all is good’ moment between Shashi Tharoor and the Congress high command have given the Congress in Kerala much-needed momentum ahead of the April–May assembly elections. Tharoor’s meeting with Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi, after weeks of speculations about his strained ties with the party,…

Read More
T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan contemplating U-turn? PCB begins dialogue with ICC

T20 World Cup 2026: Pakistan contemplating U-turn? PCB begins dialogue with ICC

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Pakistan’s Interior Minister and Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board, Mohsin Naqvi, speaks during a press conference. AP/PTI(AP09_17_2025_000612B) TimesofIndia.com in Mumbai: Dialogue is finally underway between Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) after Pakistan government’s decision to boycott the T20 World Cup fixture against India in Colombo on February 15. It is…

Read More
India eyes full semiconductor value chain under ISM 2.0 with design firms in focus, says Ashwini Vaishnaw

India eyes full semiconductor value chain under ISM 2.0 with design firms in focus, says Ashwini Vaishnaw

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0 will prioritise building domestic chip design capabilities, strengthening the semiconductor ecosystem and expanding the talent base, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Saturday, outlining the government’s next phase strategy for the sector.Speaking at a Qualcomm event in Bengaluru, Vaishnaw said the upcoming phase of the programme will place design-led growth…

Read More
NEET UG 2026 registration expected to start soon: Check complete details here

NEET UG 2026 registration expected to start soon: Check complete details here

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEET UG registration 2026 NEET UG registrations 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) will announce the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) (NEET UG) registrations shortly. Last year, the process began on February 7, 2026. Candidates must register online only at the official portals, neet.nta.nic.in and nta.ac.in. NTA has not issued any official notification yet….

Read More