April 23, 2026

IANS photo NEW DELHI: Cumulative seizures of potential poll inducements in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu have touched Rs 1,072 crore, with the former accounting for 96% of the value of liquor seized and latter reporting 78% of the illegal cash seizures.While polling will be held in Tamil Nadu in a single phase on Thursday, West Bengal will vote in two phases on Thursday and April 29.Of the Rs 1,072-crore total value of seizures made since activation of the EC’s election seizure management system (ESMS) on Feb 26, 2026, Tamil Nadu accounted for Rs 599.2 crore (56%) and West Bengal, Rs 472.9 crore (56%).Of the total 127.7-crore cash seizures, over 100 crore crore were in Tamil Nadu and Rs 27.5 crore in West Bengal. Around 39.3 lakh litres of liquor valued at Rs 102.5 crore was seized in West Bengal, as against 1.2 lakh litres worth Rs 3.8 crore in Tamil Nadu.The value of seizewd freebies was higher in Tamil Nadu at Rs 259 crore, as against Rs 178.8 crore in West Bengal. Tamil Nadu reported almost three times the seizures of precious metals as compared to West Bengal. West Bengal accounted for drug seizures worth Rs 108 crore and Tamil Nadu, Rs 76.7 crore.EC has, in multiple review meetings with the chief secretaries, chief electoral officers and DGPs of the two poll-going states and their bordering states as well as heads of enforcement agencies, directed them to ensure violence-free, intimidation-free and inducement free elections. It has deployed over 5,011 flying squad teams and 5,363 static surveillance teams across the two states for the purpose.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Denies Crypto Scam Claims After Ship Fired Upon in Strait of Hormuz TensionsFormer J&K DGP SP Vaid on Pahalgam Attack, Terrain and Security Challenges In Jammu And KashmirIndia Marks Pahalgam Anniversary With a Strong Message To Terror Outfits & Pak | WatchEC Issues Notice To Kharge Over “Terrorist” Remark On PM Modi After BJP Complaint‘Democracy Cannot Be Jeopardised’: SC Slams Mamata Banerjee Over Alleged Interference In ED RaidIran Seizes Two Ships in Strait of Hormuz, India-Bound Vessel Sparks Global ConcernINS Dhruv: The ship behind India’s missile tracking and strategic strength‘Dot, Dot, Dot’: Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan On Pahalgam Attack AnniversaryFrom US To Israel: Global Leaders Mark One Year Of Pahalgam Terror AttackPappu Yadav Defies NCW Notice, Doubles Down on Remarks Amid Massive Political Row123PhotostoriesHow to deal with a child who answers back: 3 mindful parenting tips inspired by SadhguruAre you killing your Bougainvillea with kindness? Here are 4 things you really need to knowGenelia Deshmukh proves she believes in tradition in the sea of trends with her soft pink Nauvari saree momentANZAC Day 2026: What’s open and closed across AustraliaOTT Releases This Week (April 23–27): ‘If Wishes Could Kill’, ‘Marty Supreme’, ‘Band Melam’, ‘Apex’ lead the slate3 mantras to chant everyday that are believed to bring peace, prosperity and divine protectionExclusive: President Droupadi Murmu hosted South Korean President with royal Rajasthani feastMukul Chadda, Mallika Sarabhai, Smriti Kalra: Meet the IIM graduates who swapped corporate suits for movie scriptsSpiritual benefits of taking a holy dip in Ganga riverTop 5 premium residential areas of Ghaziabad123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
IANS photo NEW DELHI: Cumulative seizures of potential poll inducements in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu have touched Rs 1,072 crore, with the former accounting for 96% of the value of liquor seized and latter reporting 78% of the illegal cash seizures.While polling will be held in Tamil Nadu in a single phase on Thursday, West Bengal will vote in two phases on Thursday and April 29.Of the Rs 1,072-crore total value of seizures made since activation of the EC’s election seizure management system (ESMS) on Feb 26, 2026, Tamil Nadu accounted for Rs 599.2 crore (56%) and West Bengal, Rs 472.9 crore (56%).Of the total 127.7-crore cash seizures, over 100 crore crore were in Tamil Nadu and Rs 27.5 crore in West Bengal. Around 39.3 lakh litres of liquor valued at Rs 102.5 crore was seized in West Bengal, as against 1.2 lakh litres worth Rs 3.8 crore in Tamil Nadu.The value of seizewd freebies was higher in Tamil Nadu at Rs 259 crore, as against Rs 178.8 crore in West Bengal. Tamil Nadu reported almost three times the seizures of precious metals as compared to West Bengal. West Bengal accounted for drug seizures worth Rs 108 crore and Tamil Nadu, Rs 76.7 crore.EC has, in multiple review meetings with the chief secretaries, chief electoral officers and DGPs of the two poll-going states and their bordering states as well as heads of enforcement agencies, directed them to ensure violence-free, intimidation-free and inducement free elections. It has deployed over 5,011 flying squad teams and 5,363 static surveillance teams across the two states for the purpose.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Denies Crypto Scam Claims After Ship Fired Upon in Strait of Hormuz TensionsFormer J&K DGP SP Vaid on Pahalgam Attack, Terrain and Security Challenges In Jammu And KashmirIndia Marks Pahalgam Anniversary With a Strong Message To Terror Outfits & Pak | WatchEC Issues Notice To Kharge Over “Terrorist” Remark On PM Modi After BJP Complaint‘Democracy Cannot Be Jeopardised’: SC Slams Mamata Banerjee Over Alleged Interference In ED RaidIran Seizes Two Ships in Strait of Hormuz, India-Bound Vessel Sparks Global ConcernINS Dhruv: The ship behind India’s missile tracking and strategic strength‘Dot, Dot, Dot’: Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan On Pahalgam Attack AnniversaryFrom US To Israel: Global Leaders Mark One Year Of Pahalgam Terror AttackPappu Yadav Defies NCW Notice, Doubles Down on Remarks Amid Massive Political Row123PhotostoriesHow to deal with a child who answers back: 3 mindful parenting tips inspired by SadhguruAre you killing your Bougainvillea with kindness? Here are 4 things you really need to knowGenelia Deshmukh proves she believes in tradition in the sea of trends with her soft pink Nauvari saree momentANZAC Day 2026: What’s open and closed across AustraliaOTT Releases This Week (April 23–27): ‘If Wishes Could Kill’, ‘Marty Supreme’, ‘Band Melam’, ‘Apex’ lead the slate3 mantras to chant everyday that are believed to bring peace, prosperity and divine protectionExclusive: President Droupadi Murmu hosted South Korean President with royal Rajasthani feastMukul Chadda, Mallika Sarabhai, Smriti Kalra: Meet the IIM graduates who swapped corporate suits for movie scriptsSpiritual benefits of taking a holy dip in Ganga riverTop 5 premium residential areas of Ghaziabad123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap


Cumulative seizures of potential poll inducements in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu touches Rs 1,072 crore

NEW DELHI: Cumulative seizures of potential poll inducements in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu have touched Rs 1,072 crore, with the former accounting for 96% of the value of liquor seized and latter reporting 78% of the illegal cash seizures.While polling will be held in Tamil Nadu in a single phase on Thursday, West Bengal will vote in two phases on Thursday and April 29.Of the Rs 1,072-crore total value of seizures made since activation of the EC’s election seizure management system (ESMS) on Feb 26, 2026, Tamil Nadu accounted for Rs 599.2 crore (56%) and West Bengal, Rs 472.9 crore (56%).Of the total 127.7-crore cash seizures, over 100 crore crore were in Tamil Nadu and Rs 27.5 crore in West Bengal. Around 39.3 lakh litres of liquor valued at Rs 102.5 crore was seized in West Bengal, as against 1.2 lakh litres worth Rs 3.8 crore in Tamil Nadu.The value of seizewd freebies was higher in Tamil Nadu at Rs 259 crore, as against Rs 178.8 crore in West Bengal. Tamil Nadu reported almost three times the seizures of precious metals as compared to West Bengal. West Bengal accounted for drug seizures worth Rs 108 crore and Tamil Nadu, Rs 76.7 crore.EC has, in multiple review meetings with the chief secretaries, chief electoral officers and DGPs of the two poll-going states and their bordering states as well as heads of enforcement agencies, directed them to ensure violence-free, intimidation-free and inducement free elections. It has deployed over 5,011 flying squad teams and 5,363 static surveillance teams across the two states for the purpose.



Source link

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related News

. NEW DELHI: As part of a comprehensive set of recommendations to the government towards creation of a “survivor-centric framework”, the National Commission for Women has flagged the need for setting up a national acid attack case tracking registry linking FIR, medical care, compensation and rehabilitation. It has also sought the integration of online FIR systems with automatic relief and compensation triggers.The NCW’s “framework” seeks to address medical care, legal justice, rehabilitation, financial security, and long-term socio-economic inclusion for acid attack survivors across the country.The commission has submitted these recommendations to the ministries of home affairs, health and family welfare, women and child development and social justice and empowerment and sought expeditious action.From a mandatory ‘Golden Hour Protocol’ to be notified and uniformly implemented across all govt and private hospitals to ensure immediate medical intervention within the first 60 minutes following a corrosive injury to free, lifelong medical treatment and customised Ayushman Bharat packages covering repeated and staged reconstructive surgeries are some of the key recommendations.On the legal front, the commission has called for fast-tracking investigation and trial mechanisms with fixed timelines for acid attack cases. It has recommended the appointment of dedicated legal officers to assist survivors at the district level.The recommendations call for simplified procedures for FIR registration, including mandatory Zero FIRs and provision of stringent and exemplary punishment for acting as a deterrent. Direct online transfer of compensation linked with FIR registration is also among the recommendations.The NCW has also flagged the need for a uniform national compensation framework applicable across all states and UTs; time-bound disbursal of compensation (interim relief within 7–15 days) and inclusion of forced acid ingestion cases within compensation schemes.As far as the regulation of acid sale, the commission has called for strict control and licensing of acid sale at manufacturing, wholesale, and retail levels. Periodic audits and inspections of acid sale and storage have been sought, along with the need to make a clear distinction between industrial and other uses of acid.From amendments to the Poison Act, 1919, to strengthen enforcement, to mandatory record-keeping and reporting by acid vendors, are other recommendations.Drawing attention to the need to focus on psycho-social and mental health support, the NCW has recommended that the government make family counselling and caregiver support an integral part of rehabilitation and integrate psycho-social rehabilitation into all survivor welfare schemes.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Denies Crypto Scam Claims After Ship Fired Upon in Strait of Hormuz TensionsFormer J&K DGP SP Vaid on Pahalgam Attack, Terrain and Security Challenges In Jammu And KashmirIndia Marks Pahalgam Anniversary With a Strong Message To Terror Outfits & Pak | WatchEC Issues Notice To Kharge Over “Terrorist” Remark On PM Modi After BJP Complaint‘Democracy Cannot Be Jeopardised’: SC Slams Mamata Banerjee Over Alleged Interference In ED RaidIran Seizes Two Ships in Strait of Hormuz, India-Bound Vessel Sparks Global ConcernINS Dhruv: The ship behind India’s missile tracking and strategic strength‘Dot, Dot, Dot’: Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan On Pahalgam Attack AnniversaryFrom US To Israel: Global Leaders Mark One Year Of Pahalgam Terror AttackPappu Yadav Defies NCW Notice, Doubles Down on Remarks Amid Massive Political Row123PhotostoriesHow to make South Indian Curd Rice for dinner at homeThe economy-class survival guide: How to be comfortable on a long-haul flightHow to deal with a child who answers back: 3 mindful parenting tips inspired by SadhguruAre you killing your Bougainvillea with kindness? Here are 4 things you really need to knowGenelia Deshmukh proves she believes in tradition in the sea of trends with her soft pink Nauvari saree momentANZAC Day 2026: What’s open and closed across AustraliaOTT Releases This Week (April 23–27): ‘If Wishes Could Kill’, ‘Marty Supreme’, ‘Band Melam’, ‘Apex’ lead the slate3 mantras to chant everyday that are believed to bring peace, prosperity and divine protectionExclusive: President Droupadi Murmu hosted South Korean President with royal Rajasthani feastMukul Chadda, Mallika Sarabhai, Smriti Kalra: Meet the IIM graduates who swapped corporate suits for movie scripts123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap

. NEW DELHI: As part of a comprehensive set of recommendations to the government towards creation of a “survivor-centric framework”, the National Commission for Women has flagged the need for setting up a national acid attack case tracking registry linking FIR, medical care, compensation and rehabilitation. It has also sought the integration of online FIR systems with automatic relief and compensation triggers.The NCW’s “framework” seeks to address medical care, legal justice, rehabilitation, financial security, and long-term socio-economic inclusion for acid attack survivors across the country.The commission has submitted these recommendations to the ministries of home affairs, health and family welfare, women and child development and social justice and empowerment and sought expeditious action.From a mandatory ‘Golden Hour Protocol’ to be notified and uniformly implemented across all govt and private hospitals to ensure immediate medical intervention within the first 60 minutes following a corrosive injury to free, lifelong medical treatment and customised Ayushman Bharat packages covering repeated and staged reconstructive surgeries are some of the key recommendations.On the legal front, the commission has called for fast-tracking investigation and trial mechanisms with fixed timelines for acid attack cases. It has recommended the appointment of dedicated legal officers to assist survivors at the district level.The recommendations call for simplified procedures for FIR registration, including mandatory Zero FIRs and provision of stringent and exemplary punishment for acting as a deterrent. Direct online transfer of compensation linked with FIR registration is also among the recommendations.The NCW has also flagged the need for a uniform national compensation framework applicable across all states and UTs; time-bound disbursal of compensation (interim relief within 7–15 days) and inclusion of forced acid ingestion cases within compensation schemes.As far as the regulation of acid sale, the commission has called for strict control and licensing of acid sale at manufacturing, wholesale, and retail levels. Periodic audits and inspections of acid sale and storage have been sought, along with the need to make a clear distinction between industrial and other uses of acid.From amendments to the Poison Act, 1919, to strengthen enforcement, to mandatory record-keeping and reporting by acid vendors, are other recommendations.Drawing attention to the need to focus on psycho-social and mental health support, the NCW has recommended that the government make family counselling and caregiver support an integral part of rehabilitation and integrate psycho-social rehabilitation into all survivor welfare schemes.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Denies Crypto Scam Claims After Ship Fired Upon in Strait of Hormuz TensionsFormer J&K DGP SP Vaid on Pahalgam Attack, Terrain and Security Challenges In Jammu And KashmirIndia Marks Pahalgam Anniversary With a Strong Message To Terror Outfits & Pak | WatchEC Issues Notice To Kharge Over “Terrorist” Remark On PM Modi After BJP Complaint‘Democracy Cannot Be Jeopardised’: SC Slams Mamata Banerjee Over Alleged Interference In ED RaidIran Seizes Two Ships in Strait of Hormuz, India-Bound Vessel Sparks Global ConcernINS Dhruv: The ship behind India’s missile tracking and strategic strength‘Dot, Dot, Dot’: Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan On Pahalgam Attack AnniversaryFrom US To Israel: Global Leaders Mark One Year Of Pahalgam Terror AttackPappu Yadav Defies NCW Notice, Doubles Down on Remarks Amid Massive Political Row123PhotostoriesHow to make South Indian Curd Rice for dinner at homeThe economy-class survival guide: How to be comfortable on a long-haul flightHow to deal with a child who answers back: 3 mindful parenting tips inspired by SadhguruAre you killing your Bougainvillea with kindness? Here are 4 things you really need to knowGenelia Deshmukh proves she believes in tradition in the sea of trends with her soft pink Nauvari saree momentANZAC Day 2026: What’s open and closed across AustraliaOTT Releases This Week (April 23–27): ‘If Wishes Could Kill’, ‘Marty Supreme’, ‘Band Melam’, ‘Apex’ lead the slate3 mantras to chant everyday that are believed to bring peace, prosperity and divine protectionExclusive: President Droupadi Murmu hosted South Korean President with royal Rajasthani feastMukul Chadda, Mallika Sarabhai, Smriti Kalra: Meet the IIM graduates who swapped corporate suits for movie scripts123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
. NEW DELHI: A quick check by railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday showed how there is a gap between what officials claim and the ground reality. At a track maintainers’ conference, he asked how many of them have got “lightweight tools” and the response was dismal.“This is wrong. There is a sharp gap between your (official) reporting and the reporting from people here. In how many months will you achieve the target of providing lightweight tools to all?… in six months, you all, across the country, will get them, and in 6-8 months you will also get gauge measuring tools,” Vaishnaw said, drawing applause from railway employees, who play a crucial role in safe train operations.The minister told track maintainers that safety of passengers and railway workforce remains govt’s prime focus and several steps have been taken to successfully reduce accidents and fatalities. Vaishnaw said railways has developed a mobile app which updates and alerts track workers about approaching trains more accurately to prevent accidents. He added that the app is being tested for more than 18 months and will be soon made available to all working on tracks.“The reliability of getting updates through the mobile phone system is much higher than the VHF-based device. Everyone working on tracks will get the app for personal safety. If you are safe, then railways is safe,” the minister said.Assuring that there will be complete modernisation of track maintenance in the next 7-8 years, Vaishnaw said soon track workers will get torque machines to replace heavy weight hammers. At present, they need to carry these heavy weight items and walk long for maintaining tracks.All India Railway Federation (AIRF), which hosted the conference to advocate for the safety and well-being of over 2.5 lakh workers, said it strives for two things — railway works safely and trackmen are taken care of.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Denies Crypto Scam Claims After Ship Fired Upon in Strait of Hormuz TensionsFormer J&K DGP SP Vaid on Pahalgam Attack, Terrain and Security Challenges In Jammu And KashmirIndia Marks Pahalgam Anniversary With a Strong Message To Terror Outfits & Pak | WatchEC Issues Notice To Kharge Over “Terrorist” Remark On PM Modi After BJP Complaint‘Democracy Cannot Be Jeopardised’: SC Slams Mamata Banerjee Over Alleged Interference In ED RaidIran Seizes Two Ships in Strait of Hormuz, India-Bound Vessel Sparks Global ConcernINS Dhruv: The ship behind India’s missile tracking and strategic strength‘Dot, Dot, Dot’: Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan On Pahalgam Attack AnniversaryFrom US To Israel: Global Leaders Mark One Year Of Pahalgam Terror AttackPappu Yadav Defies NCW Notice, Doubles Down on Remarks Amid Massive Political Row123PhotostoriesHow to make South Indian Curd Rice for dinner at homeThe economy-class survival guide: How to be comfortable on a long-haul flightHow to deal with a child who answers back: 3 mindful parenting tips inspired by SadhguruAre you killing your Bougainvillea with kindness? Here are 4 things you really need to knowGenelia Deshmukh proves she believes in tradition in the sea of trends with her soft pink Nauvari saree momentANZAC Day 2026: What’s open and closed across AustraliaOTT Releases This Week (April 23–27): ‘If Wishes Could Kill’, ‘Marty Supreme’, ‘Band Melam’, ‘Apex’ lead the slate3 mantras to chant everyday that are believed to bring peace, prosperity and divine protectionExclusive: President Droupadi Murmu hosted South Korean President with royal Rajasthani feastMukul Chadda, Mallika Sarabhai, Smriti Kalra: Meet the IIM graduates who swapped corporate suits for movie scripts123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap

. NEW DELHI: A quick check by railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday showed how there is a gap between what officials claim and the ground reality. At a track maintainers’ conference, he asked how many of them have got “lightweight tools” and the response was dismal.“This is wrong. There is a sharp gap between your (official) reporting and the reporting from people here. In how many months will you achieve the target of providing lightweight tools to all?… in six months, you all, across the country, will get them, and in 6-8 months you will also get gauge measuring tools,” Vaishnaw said, drawing applause from railway employees, who play a crucial role in safe train operations.The minister told track maintainers that safety of passengers and railway workforce remains govt’s prime focus and several steps have been taken to successfully reduce accidents and fatalities. Vaishnaw said railways has developed a mobile app which updates and alerts track workers about approaching trains more accurately to prevent accidents. He added that the app is being tested for more than 18 months and will be soon made available to all working on tracks.“The reliability of getting updates through the mobile phone system is much higher than the VHF-based device. Everyone working on tracks will get the app for personal safety. If you are safe, then railways is safe,” the minister said.Assuring that there will be complete modernisation of track maintenance in the next 7-8 years, Vaishnaw said soon track workers will get torque machines to replace heavy weight hammers. At present, they need to carry these heavy weight items and walk long for maintaining tracks.All India Railway Federation (AIRF), which hosted the conference to advocate for the safety and well-being of over 2.5 lakh workers, said it strives for two things — railway works safely and trackmen are taken care of.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Denies Crypto Scam Claims After Ship Fired Upon in Strait of Hormuz TensionsFormer J&K DGP SP Vaid on Pahalgam Attack, Terrain and Security Challenges In Jammu And KashmirIndia Marks Pahalgam Anniversary With a Strong Message To Terror Outfits & Pak | WatchEC Issues Notice To Kharge Over “Terrorist” Remark On PM Modi After BJP Complaint‘Democracy Cannot Be Jeopardised’: SC Slams Mamata Banerjee Over Alleged Interference In ED RaidIran Seizes Two Ships in Strait of Hormuz, India-Bound Vessel Sparks Global ConcernINS Dhruv: The ship behind India’s missile tracking and strategic strength‘Dot, Dot, Dot’: Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan On Pahalgam Attack AnniversaryFrom US To Israel: Global Leaders Mark One Year Of Pahalgam Terror AttackPappu Yadav Defies NCW Notice, Doubles Down on Remarks Amid Massive Political Row123PhotostoriesHow to make South Indian Curd Rice for dinner at homeThe economy-class survival guide: How to be comfortable on a long-haul flightHow to deal with a child who answers back: 3 mindful parenting tips inspired by SadhguruAre you killing your Bougainvillea with kindness? Here are 4 things you really need to knowGenelia Deshmukh proves she believes in tradition in the sea of trends with her soft pink Nauvari saree momentANZAC Day 2026: What’s open and closed across AustraliaOTT Releases This Week (April 23–27): ‘If Wishes Could Kill’, ‘Marty Supreme’, ‘Band Melam’, ‘Apex’ lead the slate3 mantras to chant everyday that are believed to bring peace, prosperity and divine protectionExclusive: President Droupadi Murmu hosted South Korean President with royal Rajasthani feastMukul Chadda, Mallika Sarabhai, Smriti Kalra: Meet the IIM graduates who swapped corporate suits for movie scripts123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
Suvendu Adhikari, Mamata Banerjee, MK Stalin and EPS NEW DELHI: The stage is all set for high-stakes electoral battle as West Bengal and Tamil Nadu head to the assembly elections on Thursday (April 23).Tamil Nadu is voting in a single phase across all 234 seats, while West Bengal will vote for 152 seats in this phase.The second phase of West Bengal assembly contest will be held on April 29. Both the poll-bound states, governed by regional heavyweights, have witnessed an intense, high-decibel campaign. The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) brigade led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and home minister Amit Shah, has pushed hard to challenge Mamata Banerjee and MK Stalin, while Rahul Gandhi and other leaders added to the campaign blitz.Amit Shah struck an aggressive note, saying, “In Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, Congress will not even cross double digits.”Even as political rhetoric peaked, the Election Commission tightened its vigil. Cash, liquor, drugs and other inducements worth over Rs 1,000 crore have been seized across both states, with total recoveries touching Rs 1,072.13 crore since February 26.On the ground, Tamil Nadu saw large-scale movement of Electronic Voting Machines and polling materials under heavy security cover. West Bengal, meanwhile, witnessed significant deployment of central forces, a move questioned by Mamata Banerjee, who asked, “are they trying to intimidate?”She also flagged the use of CRPF armoured vehicles during polling, alleging that the BJP-led Centre was deploying state machinery to sway the electoral outcome, as voters prepare to cast their ballots in a fiercely contested race.West BengalThe key seats in the first phase of the West Bengal assembly battle include Suvendu Adhikari’s Nandigram, where he had earlier defeated sitting chief minister Mamata Banerjee.Mamata Banerjee has since shifted to Bhabanipur, while Suvendu Adhikari continues to politically challenge her, as he has filed his nomination papers from Bhabanipur as well. Other important constituencies in this phase include Darjeeling, Siliguri, and Jalpaiguri. Campaigning for the phase concluded on April 21.North Bengal key focusNorth Bengal remains the central focus of Phase 1, with 54 assembly seats voting in this round.In Nandigram, Suvendu Adhikari is contesting against Trinamool Congress candidate Pabitra Kar, along with other contenders, making it one of the most closely watched contests.Mamata seeks to retain Kolkata throneThe battle for West Bengal remains intense as chief minister Mamata Banerjee seeks to retain power and consolidate voter support, while the BJP looks to build on its strong surge in 2021.Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah have pushed the slogan “sonar bangla” targeting Mamata Banerjee’s “Bohiragata” narrative. The BJP has also sharpened its attack on issues such as law and order and infiltration, citing incidents like RG Kar, Murshidabad, and Sandeshkhali.Opposition and Left fight for relevanceThe Congress factor, despite a long electoral decline, could still play a role in shaping outcomes in Kolkata and beyond. The Left Front, once dominant under Jyoti Basu, continues to struggle to regain relevance in the state. Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress has also faced fire from its INDIA bloc allies, the Congress and the Left, even as it tries to maintain its stronghold in West Bengal’s political landscape.Tamil NaduOver 5.73 crore voters are set to decide the fate of 4,023 candidates in the high-stakes Tamil Nadu Assembly elections on April 23, with tight security in place and a sweeping crackdown on inducements by the Election Commission of India. DMK vs AIADMK: The core battleThe contest is primarily between the DMK-led alliance and the AIADMK-led front, with chief minister MK Stalin seeking a second term, while Edappadi K Palaniswami aims to return to power after five years.Tamil Nadu’s political landscape has long been dominated by Dravidian parties, and this election largely continues that bipolar trend. However, the DMK has appeared electorally stronger in recent years, while the AIADMK has struggled to regain its footing after the death of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa.The last assembly election that AIADMK managed to win was in 2016, under Amma’s shadow, just months before her death. The five-year chief ministerial tenure was then divided between Jayalalithaa, O Panneerselvam, and later EPS, who now holds the party command.The national parties, BJP and Congress, remain in the backseat of their Dravidian partners, the BJP is in an electoral alliance with its old and traditional ally AIADMK, while Congress is aligned with the ruling DMK.Vijay factor adds new twistThis election, however, comes with a fresh variable. Tamil superstar Vijay has entered the political arena with his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, drawing massive crowds at rallies and roadshows.His popularity has translated into strong on-ground mobilisation, though one such gathering in Karur tragically led to a stampede.Can crowd support turn into votes?While Vijay’s entry has added a new dimension to the contest, his party is contesting independently, outside the DMK and AIADMK alliances. Unlike national parties such as the BJP and Congress, TVK is not seen as an “outsider” in Tamil Nadu’s political fabric.The key question, however, remains whether this visible public support can convert into votes, a challenge that has historically tested celebrity-led political ventures in the state.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 MediaVideosIndia Marks Pahalgam Anniversary With a Strong Message To Terror Outfits & Pak | WatchEC Issues Notice To Kharge Over “Terrorist” Remark On PM Modi After BJP Complaint‘Democracy Cannot Be Jeopardised’: SC Slams Mamata Banerjee Over Alleged Interference In ED RaidIran Seizes Two Ships in Strait of Hormuz, India-Bound Vessel Sparks Global ConcernINS Dhruv: The ship behind India’s missile tracking and strategic strength‘Dot, Dot, Dot’: Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan On Pahalgam Attack AnniversaryFrom US To Israel: Global Leaders Mark One Year Of Pahalgam Terror AttackPappu Yadav Defies NCW Notice, Doubles Down on Remarks Amid Massive Political RowIAF Lands Fighter Jets, Transport Aircraft on Purvanchal Expressway in Major Readiness DrillFast Fashion Explained: The Hidden Cost of Cheap Clothes Will Shock You123PhotostoriesAre you killing your Bougainvillea with kindness? Here are 4 things you really need to knowGenelia Deshmukh proves she believes in tradition in the sea of trends with her soft pink Nauvari saree momentANZAC Day 2026: What’s open and closed across AustraliaOTT Releases This Week (April 23–27): ‘If Wishes Could Kill’, ‘Marty Supreme’, ‘Band Melam’, ‘Apex’ lead the slate3 mantras to chant everyday that are believed to bring peace, prosperity and divine protectionExclusive: President Droupadi Murmu hosted South Korean President with royal Rajasthani feastMukul Chadda, Mallika Sarabhai, Smriti Kalra: Meet the IIM graduates who swapped corporate suits for movie scriptsSpiritual benefits of taking a holy dip in Ganga riverTop 5 premium residential areas of GhaziabadHow to spot fake friends: 10 toxic traits disguised as ‘friendship’123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap

Suvendu Adhikari, Mamata Banerjee, MK Stalin and EPS NEW DELHI: The stage is all set for high-stakes electoral battle as West Bengal and Tamil Nadu head to the assembly elections on Thursday (April 23).Tamil Nadu is voting in a single phase across all 234 seats, while West Bengal will vote for 152 seats in this phase.The second phase of West Bengal assembly contest will be held on April 29. Both the poll-bound states, governed by regional heavyweights, have witnessed an intense, high-decibel campaign. The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) brigade led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and home minister Amit Shah, has pushed hard to challenge Mamata Banerjee and MK Stalin, while Rahul Gandhi and other leaders added to the campaign blitz.Amit Shah struck an aggressive note, saying, “In Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, Congress will not even cross double digits.”Even as political rhetoric peaked, the Election Commission tightened its vigil. Cash, liquor, drugs and other inducements worth over Rs 1,000 crore have been seized across both states, with total recoveries touching Rs 1,072.13 crore since February 26.On the ground, Tamil Nadu saw large-scale movement of Electronic Voting Machines and polling materials under heavy security cover. West Bengal, meanwhile, witnessed significant deployment of central forces, a move questioned by Mamata Banerjee, who asked, “are they trying to intimidate?”She also flagged the use of CRPF armoured vehicles during polling, alleging that the BJP-led Centre was deploying state machinery to sway the electoral outcome, as voters prepare to cast their ballots in a fiercely contested race.West BengalThe key seats in the first phase of the West Bengal assembly battle include Suvendu Adhikari’s Nandigram, where he had earlier defeated sitting chief minister Mamata Banerjee.Mamata Banerjee has since shifted to Bhabanipur, while Suvendu Adhikari continues to politically challenge her, as he has filed his nomination papers from Bhabanipur as well. Other important constituencies in this phase include Darjeeling, Siliguri, and Jalpaiguri. Campaigning for the phase concluded on April 21.North Bengal key focusNorth Bengal remains the central focus of Phase 1, with 54 assembly seats voting in this round.In Nandigram, Suvendu Adhikari is contesting against Trinamool Congress candidate Pabitra Kar, along with other contenders, making it one of the most closely watched contests.Mamata seeks to retain Kolkata throneThe battle for West Bengal remains intense as chief minister Mamata Banerjee seeks to retain power and consolidate voter support, while the BJP looks to build on its strong surge in 2021.Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah have pushed the slogan “sonar bangla” targeting Mamata Banerjee’s “Bohiragata” narrative. The BJP has also sharpened its attack on issues such as law and order and infiltration, citing incidents like RG Kar, Murshidabad, and Sandeshkhali.Opposition and Left fight for relevanceThe Congress factor, despite a long electoral decline, could still play a role in shaping outcomes in Kolkata and beyond. The Left Front, once dominant under Jyoti Basu, continues to struggle to regain relevance in the state. Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress has also faced fire from its INDIA bloc allies, the Congress and the Left, even as it tries to maintain its stronghold in West Bengal’s political landscape.Tamil NaduOver 5.73 crore voters are set to decide the fate of 4,023 candidates in the high-stakes Tamil Nadu Assembly elections on April 23, with tight security in place and a sweeping crackdown on inducements by the Election Commission of India. DMK vs AIADMK: The core battleThe contest is primarily between the DMK-led alliance and the AIADMK-led front, with chief minister MK Stalin seeking a second term, while Edappadi K Palaniswami aims to return to power after five years.Tamil Nadu’s political landscape has long been dominated by Dravidian parties, and this election largely continues that bipolar trend. However, the DMK has appeared electorally stronger in recent years, while the AIADMK has struggled to regain its footing after the death of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa.The last assembly election that AIADMK managed to win was in 2016, under Amma’s shadow, just months before her death. The five-year chief ministerial tenure was then divided between Jayalalithaa, O Panneerselvam, and later EPS, who now holds the party command.The national parties, BJP and Congress, remain in the backseat of their Dravidian partners, the BJP is in an electoral alliance with its old and traditional ally AIADMK, while Congress is aligned with the ruling DMK.Vijay factor adds new twistThis election, however, comes with a fresh variable. Tamil superstar Vijay has entered the political arena with his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, drawing massive crowds at rallies and roadshows.His popularity has translated into strong on-ground mobilisation, though one such gathering in Karur tragically led to a stampede.Can crowd support turn into votes?While Vijay’s entry has added a new dimension to the contest, his party is contesting independently, outside the DMK and AIADMK alliances. Unlike national parties such as the BJP and Congress, TVK is not seen as an “outsider” in Tamil Nadu’s political fabric.The key question, however, remains whether this visible public support can convert into votes, a challenge that has historically tested celebrity-led political ventures in the state.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 MediaVideosIndia Marks Pahalgam Anniversary With a Strong Message To Terror Outfits & Pak | WatchEC Issues Notice To Kharge Over “Terrorist” Remark On PM Modi After BJP Complaint‘Democracy Cannot Be Jeopardised’: SC Slams Mamata Banerjee Over Alleged Interference In ED RaidIran Seizes Two Ships in Strait of Hormuz, India-Bound Vessel Sparks Global ConcernINS Dhruv: The ship behind India’s missile tracking and strategic strength‘Dot, Dot, Dot’: Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan On Pahalgam Attack AnniversaryFrom US To Israel: Global Leaders Mark One Year Of Pahalgam Terror AttackPappu Yadav Defies NCW Notice, Doubles Down on Remarks Amid Massive Political RowIAF Lands Fighter Jets, Transport Aircraft on Purvanchal Expressway in Major Readiness DrillFast Fashion Explained: The Hidden Cost of Cheap Clothes Will Shock You123PhotostoriesAre you killing your Bougainvillea with kindness? Here are 4 things you really need to knowGenelia Deshmukh proves she believes in tradition in the sea of trends with her soft pink Nauvari saree momentANZAC Day 2026: What’s open and closed across AustraliaOTT Releases This Week (April 23–27): ‘If Wishes Could Kill’, ‘Marty Supreme’, ‘Band Melam’, ‘Apex’ lead the slate3 mantras to chant everyday that are believed to bring peace, prosperity and divine protectionExclusive: President Droupadi Murmu hosted South Korean President with royal Rajasthani feastMukul Chadda, Mallika Sarabhai, Smriti Kalra: Meet the IIM graduates who swapped corporate suits for movie scriptsSpiritual benefits of taking a holy dip in Ganga riverTop 5 premium residential areas of GhaziabadHow to spot fake friends: 10 toxic traits disguised as ‘friendship’123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0