May 2, 2026

Representative image NEW DELHI: The Union home ministry on Thursday notified an amendment to the Citizenship Act allowing online application for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards. The digital application will be for both inclusion and renunciation.All applications will be submitted electronically through the portal https://ociservices.gov.in. The amended rule also provides for inclusion of minors as OCI but “the minor cannot at any time hold passport of any other country while also holding Indian passport”.”An application for registration as an OCI cardholder under section 7A shall be made in Form XXVIII electronically on the designated online portal,” according to a gazette notification. There will not be any requirement to provide duplicate certificates as in the past.Those registered as OCI shall be issued OCI card in physical form or an electronic e-OCI registration containing details. The authority will maintain a record of persons registered as OCI in electronic form.Similarly, a declaration of renunciation of the card shall be made (in Form XXXI) electronically on designated portal to Indian Missions or Posts, or Foreigners Regional Registration Officers. In case of OCI card issued in physical form, the original card must be surrendered to authorities, who will issue an acknowledgment, the notification said. Once the authority cancels registration of OCI, the person whose registration has been cancelled will deliver the card in original.The new rule provides that “if an application for revision is made…by a person aggrieved by an order made by an authority with reference to his application, the application shall be disposed of by an authority one rank higher than the authority specified for disposal of the application for citizenship”.For a minor, OCI cardholder has to make a declaration, where it is specifically mentioned that the child does not hold passport of any other country while also holding Indian passport. The consent must also be provided to “share biometric information that will be captured for registration as an OCI cardholder for the purpose of registration under the ‘Fast Track Immigration Programme’ whenever an application is submitted.The govt also introduced a new rule – “If an application is made by a person for review under Section 15A, (grant of citizenship by naturalisation), the application for review shall be disposed of by the central govt after giving a reasonable opportunity to the person affected to present his case.”End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 heatwave123Hot 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

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Representative image NEW DELHI: The Union home ministry on Thursday notified an amendment to the Citizenship Act allowing online application for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards. The digital application will be for both inclusion and renunciation.All applications will be submitted electronically through the portal https://ociservices.gov.in. The amended rule also provides for inclusion of minors as OCI but “the minor cannot at any time hold passport of any other country while also holding Indian passport”.”An application for registration as an OCI cardholder under section 7A shall be made in Form XXVIII electronically on the designated online portal,” according to a gazette notification. There will not be any requirement to provide duplicate certificates as in the past.Those registered as OCI shall be issued OCI card in physical form or an electronic e-OCI registration containing details. The authority will maintain a record of persons registered as OCI in electronic form.Similarly, a declaration of renunciation of the card shall be made (in Form XXXI) electronically on designated portal to Indian Missions or Posts, or Foreigners Regional Registration Officers. In case of OCI card issued in physical form, the original card must be surrendered to authorities, who will issue an acknowledgment, the notification said. Once the authority cancels registration of OCI, the person whose registration has been cancelled will deliver the card in original.The new rule provides that “if an application for revision is made…by a person aggrieved by an order made by an authority with reference to his application, the application shall be disposed of by an authority one rank higher than the authority specified for disposal of the application for citizenship”.For a minor, OCI cardholder has to make a declaration, where it is specifically mentioned that the child does not hold passport of any other country while also holding Indian passport. The consent must also be provided to “share biometric information that will be captured for registration as an OCI cardholder for the purpose of registration under the ‘Fast Track Immigration Programme’ whenever an application is submitted.The govt also introduced a new rule – “If an application is made by a person for review under Section 15A, (grant of citizenship by naturalisation), the application for review shall be disposed of by the central govt after giving a reasonable opportunity to the person affected to present his case.”End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 heatwave123Hot 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


Applications for OCI cards can be now made online

NEW DELHI: The Union home ministry on Thursday notified an amendment to the Citizenship Act allowing online application for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards. The digital application will be for both inclusion and renunciation.All applications will be submitted electronically through the portal https://ociservices.gov.in. The amended rule also provides for inclusion of minors as OCI but “the minor cannot at any time hold passport of any other country while also holding Indian passport”.“An application for registration as an OCI cardholder under section 7A shall be made in Form XXVIII electronically on the designated online portal,” according to a gazette notification. There will not be any requirement to provide duplicate certificates as in the past.Those registered as OCI shall be issued OCI card in physical form or an electronic e-OCI registration containing details. The authority will maintain a record of persons registered as OCI in electronic form.Similarly, a declaration of renunciation of the card shall be made (in Form XXXI) electronically on designated portal to Indian Missions or Posts, or Foreigners Regional Registration Officers. In case of OCI card issued in physical form, the original card must be surrendered to authorities, who will issue an acknowledgment, the notification said. Once the authority cancels registration of OCI, the person whose registration has been cancelled will deliver the card in original.The new rule provides that “if an application for revision is made…by a person aggrieved by an order made by an authority with reference to his application, the application shall be disposed of by an authority one rank higher than the authority specified for disposal of the application for citizenship”.For a minor, OCI cardholder has to make a declaration, where it is specifically mentioned that the child does not hold passport of any other country while also holding Indian passport. The consent must also be provided to “share biometric information that will be captured for registration as an OCI cardholder for the purpose of registration under the ‘Fast Track Immigration Programme’ whenever an application is submitted.The govt also introduced a new rule – “If an application is made by a person for review under Section 15A, (grant of citizenship by naturalisation), the application for review shall be disposed of by the central govt after giving a reasonable opportunity to the person affected to present his case.”



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Rahul Gandhi NEW DELHI: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Friday called the Rs 993 increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices an “election bill”, adding he had warned that a fuel hike would follow the assembly polls. He said the next rise would be in petrol and diesel prices.Rahul said the burden on dhabas, hotels, bakeries and sweet shops would “inevitably impact your plate as well”.Party general secretary KC Venugopal said the Modi govt had not wasted any time after the polls and BJP’s concern for the public’s suffering was limited to elections. Congress’s Randeep Surjewala said, “Riding on the double engine of deceit and oppression, BJP has plunged the country into record unemployment and runaway inflation, trapping families in a web of debt even for household expenses.”End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 heatwave123Hot 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

Rahul Gandhi NEW DELHI: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Friday called the Rs 993 increase in commercial LPG cylinder prices an “election bill”, adding he had warned that a fuel hike would follow the assembly polls. He said the next rise would be in petrol and diesel prices.Rahul said the burden on dhabas, hotels, bakeries and sweet shops would “inevitably impact your plate as well”.Party general secretary KC Venugopal said the Modi govt had not wasted any time after the polls and BJP’s concern for the public’s suffering was limited to elections. Congress’s Randeep Surjewala said, “Riding on the double engine of deceit and oppression, BJP has plunged the country into record unemployment and runaway inflation, trapping families in a web of debt even for household expenses.”End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 heatwave123Hot 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

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NEW DELHI: The Election Commission has ordered repolling in 15 polling stations across two constituencies in West Bengal following the second phase of Assembly elections held on April 29. Fresh polling will take place on May 2 between 7 am and 6 pm in South 24 Parganas district, covering 11 booths in Magrahat Paschim and four in Diamond Harbour.The poll body said the decision was based on reports from returning officers and election observers, declaring the earlier voting in these booths void under provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Authorities have been directed to ensure wide publicity of the repoll, including informing candidates and local voters.”I am directed to state that based on reports received from the concerned Returning Officers and the Observers of 142-Magrahat Paschim AC and 143-Diamond Harbour AC regarding poll taken for General Election to the Legislative Assembly of West Bengal, 2026, held on 29th April, 2026 and after taking all material circumstances into account, the Commission hereby declares, under sub-section (2) of Section 58 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, that the poll taken on 29th April, 2026 for the aforesaid election at the following Polling Stations (as mentioned in Column 3 of the table below) to be void and appoints 2nd May, 2026 as the date and fixes the hours, for taking fresh poll at the said Polling Stations,” West Bengal’s chief electoral officer wrote in the order.”I am further to state that the widest possible publicity should be given by beating of drums in the polling area, and contesting candidates should be informed in writing about the fresh poll being taken on the said date,” the poll body said.The decision follows allegations of irregularities during voting, particularly in parts of Diamond Harbour’s Falta segment. BJP co-incharge for West Bengal Amit Malviya claimed that voters were prevented from selecting the party option in certain booths, alleging that EVM buttons were covered with tape.List of booths where repolling will take place Magrahat Paschim (11 booths) 46 – Uttar Yearpur F.P School, Room Number 2 126 – Najra F.P School, Room Number 1 127 – Najra F.P School, Room Number 2 128 – Deula F.P School, Room Number 1 142 – Ghola Noyapara Girls’ High Madrasha, Room Number 2 214 – Ektara Malaya F.P School, Room Number 1 215 – Ektara Malaya F.P School, Room Number 2 216 – Ektara Malaya Dhora F.P School, Room Number 1 230 – Bahirpuya Kurkuriya F.P School, Room Number 1 231 – Bahirpuya Kurkuriya F.P School, Room Number 2 232 – Bahirpuya Kurkuria F.P School, Room Number 3 Diamond Harbour (4 booths) 117 – Bagda Junior High School 179 – Chandra F.P School, Room Number 2 194 – Haridevpur F.P School 243 – Roynagar F.P School, Room Number 2In a post on X, Malviya wrote, “This is what Mamata Banerjee was defending when she spoke up for Jehangir Khan, a criminal contesting on a TMC ticket from Falta in Diamond Harbour. In several polling booths, the option to vote for the BJP has been blocked using a tape, effectively preventing voters from exercising their choice. This is the so-called ‘Diamond Harbour Model,’ the same template that helped Mamata Banerjee’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee secure his Lok Sabha seat.”Earlier, West Bengal chief electoral officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal had said such complaints would be verified and acted upon.”If reports of taping of any button come in, that should be verified and noted. If true, those booths will go for a repoll,” West Bengal CEO said.The final phase of polling concluded on April 29 with turnout touching around 90 percent. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, with security tightened at strong rooms in Howrah.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 MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5am: Simple habits that feel less like routine, more like reflectionHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 explains123Hot 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

NEW DELHI: The Election Commission has ordered repolling in 15 polling stations across two constituencies in West Bengal following the second phase of Assembly elections held on April 29. Fresh polling will take place on May 2 between 7 am and 6 pm in South 24 Parganas district, covering 11 booths in Magrahat Paschim and four in Diamond Harbour.The poll body said the decision was based on reports from returning officers and election observers, declaring the earlier voting in these booths void under provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Authorities have been directed to ensure wide publicity of the repoll, including informing candidates and local voters.”I am directed to state that based on reports received from the concerned Returning Officers and the Observers of 142-Magrahat Paschim AC and 143-Diamond Harbour AC regarding poll taken for General Election to the Legislative Assembly of West Bengal, 2026, held on 29th April, 2026 and after taking all material circumstances into account, the Commission hereby declares, under sub-section (2) of Section 58 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, that the poll taken on 29th April, 2026 for the aforesaid election at the following Polling Stations (as mentioned in Column 3 of the table below) to be void and appoints 2nd May, 2026 as the date and fixes the hours, for taking fresh poll at the said Polling Stations,” West Bengal’s chief electoral officer wrote in the order.”I am further to state that the widest possible publicity should be given by beating of drums in the polling area, and contesting candidates should be informed in writing about the fresh poll being taken on the said date,” the poll body said.The decision follows allegations of irregularities during voting, particularly in parts of Diamond Harbour’s Falta segment. BJP co-incharge for West Bengal Amit Malviya claimed that voters were prevented from selecting the party option in certain booths, alleging that EVM buttons were covered with tape.List of booths where repolling will take place Magrahat Paschim (11 booths) 46 – Uttar Yearpur F.P School, Room Number 2 126 – Najra F.P School, Room Number 1 127 – Najra F.P School, Room Number 2 128 – Deula F.P School, Room Number 1 142 – Ghola Noyapara Girls’ High Madrasha, Room Number 2 214 – Ektara Malaya F.P School, Room Number 1 215 – Ektara Malaya F.P School, Room Number 2 216 – Ektara Malaya Dhora F.P School, Room Number 1 230 – Bahirpuya Kurkuriya F.P School, Room Number 1 231 – Bahirpuya Kurkuriya F.P School, Room Number 2 232 – Bahirpuya Kurkuria F.P School, Room Number 3 Diamond Harbour (4 booths) 117 – Bagda Junior High School 179 – Chandra F.P School, Room Number 2 194 – Haridevpur F.P School 243 – Roynagar F.P School, Room Number 2In a post on X, Malviya wrote, “This is what Mamata Banerjee was defending when she spoke up for Jehangir Khan, a criminal contesting on a TMC ticket from Falta in Diamond Harbour. In several polling booths, the option to vote for the BJP has been blocked using a tape, effectively preventing voters from exercising their choice. This is the so-called ‘Diamond Harbour Model,’ the same template that helped Mamata Banerjee’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee secure his Lok Sabha seat.”Earlier, West Bengal chief electoral officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal had said such complaints would be verified and acted upon.”If reports of taping of any button come in, that should be verified and noted. If true, those booths will go for a repoll,” West Bengal CEO said.The final phase of polling concluded on April 29 with turnout touching around 90 percent. Counting of votes is scheduled for May 4, with security tightened at strong rooms in Howrah.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 MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5am: Simple habits that feel less like routine, more like reflectionHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 explains123Hot 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

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File photo NEW DELHI: Observing that functioning of National Company Law Tribunals (NCLT) has been impaired by numerous vacancies and inadequate infrastructure — leading to substantial delay in deciding cases, particularly those involving resolution plans under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) — Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance and decided to initiate remedial measures, reports Amit Anand Choudhary.A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K V Viswanathan said the problems faced by the tribunals need to be “addressed on war footing, otherwise the very purpose and object of enacting IBC would stand frustrated”. It said NCLTs play an important role in the economy, as they try to sustain companies that are “going down the drain on account of various factors and keep them afloat”, but the condition prevailing at these tribunals is grim and dismal.In its order, the court noted that most of tribunals’ staffers, including for post of registrar, are appointed on a temporary basis and that the entire staff of NCLT, Mumbai, had once gone on a strike as salaries were not paid on time.SC said that “as per the report forwarded by registrar of the NCLT, principal bench, there are 363 applications (resolution proposals) awaiting approval”.“The delay as sought to be explained ranges from 48 days to 738 days. In some cases, the delay is up to four years. The reasons that have been assigned, by and large, are lack of adequate infrastructure and lack of infrastructure, resulting in half day sittings of benches, more particularly, due to interchange of combinations and large pendency of objections to the resolution plan filed by various stakeholders,” it said.The statutory sanctioned strength for all NCLT benches is 63 members — comprising a president and 31 judicial members and as many technical members. Currently, only 28 judicial members and 26 technical members are posted across benches.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5am: Simple habits that feel less like routine, more like reflectionHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 heatwave123Hot 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

File photo NEW DELHI: Observing that functioning of National Company Law Tribunals (NCLT) has been impaired by numerous vacancies and inadequate infrastructure — leading to substantial delay in deciding cases, particularly those involving resolution plans under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) — Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance and decided to initiate remedial measures, reports Amit Anand Choudhary.A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K V Viswanathan said the problems faced by the tribunals need to be “addressed on war footing, otherwise the very purpose and object of enacting IBC would stand frustrated”. It said NCLTs play an important role in the economy, as they try to sustain companies that are “going down the drain on account of various factors and keep them afloat”, but the condition prevailing at these tribunals is grim and dismal.In its order, the court noted that most of tribunals’ staffers, including for post of registrar, are appointed on a temporary basis and that the entire staff of NCLT, Mumbai, had once gone on a strike as salaries were not paid on time.SC said that “as per the report forwarded by registrar of the NCLT, principal bench, there are 363 applications (resolution proposals) awaiting approval”.“The delay as sought to be explained ranges from 48 days to 738 days. In some cases, the delay is up to four years. The reasons that have been assigned, by and large, are lack of adequate infrastructure and lack of infrastructure, resulting in half day sittings of benches, more particularly, due to interchange of combinations and large pendency of objections to the resolution plan filed by various stakeholders,” it said.The statutory sanctioned strength for all NCLT benches is 63 members — comprising a president and 31 judicial members and as many technical members. Currently, only 28 judicial members and 26 technical members are posted across benches.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5am: Simple habits that feel less like routine, more like reflectionHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 heatwave123Hot 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

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ED Attaches Rs 10.29 Crore Draft to TMC As Alchemist Group Probe Intensifies NEW DELHI: Striking a tough note, Enforcement Directorate on Friday raised the issue of legal obstacles coming in the way of the agency, with its chief Rahul Navin questioning the proposition that an investigation into a money laundering offence should not proceed until the trial in the predicate offence case had been concluded.“Of course, there are legal challenges before the courts, the most important being whether the trial in money laundering cases should take a pause till the trial in the predicate offence case gets concluded or continue on a standalone basis in consonance with the international standards and Financial Action Task Force Guidelines,” ED chief said.His remarks on the occasion of the agency’s 70th Foundation Day and in the presence of minister of state for finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, are likely to sharpen the raging debate on whether the investigation into money laundering offence has to necessarily ride piggyback on predicate offence; that is the crime which generated the money that was laundered, or does it have, given the enormity of money laundering, an independent existence.The matter is in a zone of ambiguity as while the Supreme Court in Vijay Madanlal Choudhary case tied the money laundering probe to predicate offence, there are high court verdicts which have recognised money laundering as a standalone offence.Navin said that the ambiguity was hindering ED’s work despite its success in achieving a conviction rate of 94%. In his remarks, additional solicitor general S V Raju, who represents the agency in constitutional courts, agreed with the ED director.The ED chief also expressed confidence that the agency will maintain its “strike” in more than 2,400 cases now pending before trial courts, leading to confiscation of a sizeable amount as proceeds of crime. The celebrations were significant in that they brought out govt’s solidarity with the agency that has been accused of being an instrument of political vendetta.“Over the last few years, the ED has remained a subject of extensive public discourse. There exists an ecosystem in the country that perceives a problem in every solution. No matter what you do, such people will inevitably start finding fault with it. In reality, ever since Modiji assumed the nation’s leadership in 2014, and began taking tough decisions in the national interest, the very foundations of this ecosystem have been shaken,” the junior finance minister said.Speaking on ED’s legal challenges, S V Raju said the present understanding of the law is that the predicate offence is like an “umbilical cord” to the money laundering crime, but, he emphasised that the discharge of an accused or a closure report filed in a predicate offence should not end the ED’s investigation as the agency can always share fresh evidence and challenge the ruling as an “aggrieved” party.At the award giving later, two assistant director rank officers of ED—Vikram Ahlawat and Prashant Chandila—were among several others who received their commendation certificates.Ahlawat and Chandila werepart of the Jan 8 searches in Kolkata on political consultancyfirm I-PAC. The searches weredisrupted by CM Mamata Banerjee and her senior police officers.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5am: Simple habits that feel less like routine, more like reflectionHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 heatwave123Hot 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

ED Attaches Rs 10.29 Crore Draft to TMC As Alchemist Group Probe Intensifies NEW DELHI: Striking a tough note, Enforcement Directorate on Friday raised the issue of legal obstacles coming in the way of the agency, with its chief Rahul Navin questioning the proposition that an investigation into a money laundering offence should not proceed until the trial in the predicate offence case had been concluded.“Of course, there are legal challenges before the courts, the most important being whether the trial in money laundering cases should take a pause till the trial in the predicate offence case gets concluded or continue on a standalone basis in consonance with the international standards and Financial Action Task Force Guidelines,” ED chief said.His remarks on the occasion of the agency’s 70th Foundation Day and in the presence of minister of state for finance, Pankaj Chaudhary, are likely to sharpen the raging debate on whether the investigation into money laundering offence has to necessarily ride piggyback on predicate offence; that is the crime which generated the money that was laundered, or does it have, given the enormity of money laundering, an independent existence.The matter is in a zone of ambiguity as while the Supreme Court in Vijay Madanlal Choudhary case tied the money laundering probe to predicate offence, there are high court verdicts which have recognised money laundering as a standalone offence.Navin said that the ambiguity was hindering ED’s work despite its success in achieving a conviction rate of 94%. In his remarks, additional solicitor general S V Raju, who represents the agency in constitutional courts, agreed with the ED director.The ED chief also expressed confidence that the agency will maintain its “strike” in more than 2,400 cases now pending before trial courts, leading to confiscation of a sizeable amount as proceeds of crime. The celebrations were significant in that they brought out govt’s solidarity with the agency that has been accused of being an instrument of political vendetta.“Over the last few years, the ED has remained a subject of extensive public discourse. There exists an ecosystem in the country that perceives a problem in every solution. No matter what you do, such people will inevitably start finding fault with it. In reality, ever since Modiji assumed the nation’s leadership in 2014, and began taking tough decisions in the national interest, the very foundations of this ecosystem have been shaken,” the junior finance minister said.Speaking on ED’s legal challenges, S V Raju said the present understanding of the law is that the predicate offence is like an “umbilical cord” to the money laundering crime, but, he emphasised that the discharge of an accused or a closure report filed in a predicate offence should not end the ED’s investigation as the agency can always share fresh evidence and challenge the ruling as an “aggrieved” party.At the award giving later, two assistant director rank officers of ED—Vikram Ahlawat and Prashant Chandila—were among several others who received their commendation certificates.Ahlawat and Chandila werepart of the Jan 8 searches in Kolkata on political consultancyfirm I-PAC. The searches weredisrupted by CM Mamata Banerjee and her senior police officers.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFuel Prices May Go Up Soon As Oil Firms Face Losses Amid Global Crude SpikeNine Dead As Tourist Boat Capsizes In Jabalpur, Survivors Allege Major Safety LapsesJPMorgan Executive Sued Over Sexual Abuse, Coercion And Racial Harassment Allegations In New YorkJabalpur Boat Tragedy: Mother Found Clutching Child After Bargi Dam Capsize, 9 DeadIndia Launches First Barrier-Less Toll System On NH-48: How MLFF Will Change Highway TravelTamil 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 | Watch123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5am: Simple habits that feel less like routine, more like reflectionHow to make South Indian Tamarind Rice for summer lunchMaharashtra Day 2026: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor honours the culinary heritage of the stateBest time to do yoga: Morning vs evening; What works better for your body?How 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 heatwave123Hot 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

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