April 30, 2026

. NEW DELHI: Dense fog through the morning and toxic smog thereafter. Delhi continued to gasp in severe air quality for the third day. The city’s average AQI stood at 427, improving slightly from Sunday’s severe-plus level of 461 without giving no major relief. The season’s first big fog episode, cold conditions and calm winds prevented significant dispersal of pollutants. Of Delhi’s 39 air quality monitoring stations, 28 were in ‘severe’ zone as against 38 on Sunday. However, peak pollution levels stayed largely unchanged, particularly in the morning..About the AuthorPriyangi AgarwalPriyangi Agarwal writes on environmental and climate change issues, connecting these topics to the everyday lives of people. She tracks developments across the capital’s transport hubs—Delhi Metro, Namo Bharat Trains, and Delhi Airport—while also reporting on pressing social issues. Her stories blend data analysis with voices from the ground to tell human-centred narratives. Previously stationed in western Uttar Pradesh, she focused her coverage on minority issues, health, and human rights.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndian Army Displays Turkish Yiiha Drone Used By Pakistan During Operation SindoorPM Modi Arrives In Jordan, Receives Warm Welcome By Indian Diaspora In AmmanUS Starts Mandatory Social Media Checks For H-1B Visas Leaving Indian Professionals Most ExposedBJP’s Succession Script Repeats: Why Nitin Nabin Is Working President, And Not Nadda’s ReplacementEnd Of MGNREGA? What VB–G Ram G Means For Rural Workers, Farmers And Viksit Bharat PlanFrom Missiles To Torpedoes, DRDO Outlines India’s Big Defence Push For Near-Term Battlefield EdgePM Modi Begins Jordan, Ethiopia, Oman Tour To Boost Ancient Ties, Expand India’s Global South RoleIndian Diaspora Members Prepare Cultural Performances Ahead Of PM Modi’s Jordan VisitFrom Power Cuts To 500 GW Grid, India Emerges As Global Data Centre Hub Under Modi: Piyush GoyalCong’s ‘Modi Teri Kabr Khudegi’ Slogan Sparks Uproar, NDA Seeks Apology As Parliament Grinds To Halt123Photostories5 adorable pink animals stealing the wildlife spotlight5 beautiful Romeo and Juliet quotes that will steal your hearts‘Damini’, ‘OMG! Oh My God’, ‘Prem Rog’: Bollywood movies that sparked social change and redefined mainstream storytelling5 pet fish that change colour and why it happens6 Traditional egg curries from different parts of the countryAnkita Lokhande and Vicky Jain’s love story: From being close friends to getting remarried in EuropeUttarakhand Govt announces snow leopard tour to boost winter tourism; 5 other Indian spots to see the Big CatMrunal Thakur’s colourful Paithani saree is a bold love letter to Maharashtrian cultureFrom ethnic glam to chic streetwear: ‘Bigg Boss 19’ fame Farrhana Bhatt’s fashion diaryWhat is binge eating disorder and how to fix it?123Hot PicksBondi beach attackCorona RemediesJetBlue flight VenezuelaGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingJaylen Warren InjuryAuston MatthewsVanessa BryantLeBron JamesBukayo Saka and Tolami Benson Net WorthConnor McDavidDylan HollowayLebron JamesAdam FoxBam Adebayo

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins
. NEW DELHI: Dense fog through the morning and toxic smog thereafter. Delhi continued to gasp in severe air quality for the third day. The city’s average AQI stood at 427, improving slightly from Sunday’s severe-plus level of 461 without giving no major relief. The season’s first big fog episode, cold conditions and calm winds prevented significant dispersal of pollutants. Of Delhi’s 39 air quality monitoring stations, 28 were in ‘severe’ zone as against 38 on Sunday. However, peak pollution levels stayed largely unchanged, particularly in the morning..About the AuthorPriyangi AgarwalPriyangi Agarwal writes on environmental and climate change issues, connecting these topics to the everyday lives of people. She tracks developments across the capital’s transport hubs—Delhi Metro, Namo Bharat Trains, and Delhi Airport—while also reporting on pressing social issues. Her stories blend data analysis with voices from the ground to tell human-centred narratives. Previously stationed in western Uttar Pradesh, she focused her coverage on minority issues, health, and human rights.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndian Army Displays Turkish Yiiha Drone Used By Pakistan During Operation SindoorPM Modi Arrives In Jordan, Receives Warm Welcome By Indian Diaspora In AmmanUS Starts Mandatory Social Media Checks For H-1B Visas Leaving Indian Professionals Most ExposedBJP’s Succession Script Repeats: Why Nitin Nabin Is Working President, And Not Nadda’s ReplacementEnd Of MGNREGA? What VB–G Ram G Means For Rural Workers, Farmers And Viksit Bharat PlanFrom Missiles To Torpedoes, DRDO Outlines India’s Big Defence Push For Near-Term Battlefield EdgePM Modi Begins Jordan, Ethiopia, Oman Tour To Boost Ancient Ties, Expand India’s Global South RoleIndian Diaspora Members Prepare Cultural Performances Ahead Of PM Modi’s Jordan VisitFrom Power Cuts To 500 GW Grid, India Emerges As Global Data Centre Hub Under Modi: Piyush GoyalCong’s ‘Modi Teri Kabr Khudegi’ Slogan Sparks Uproar, NDA Seeks Apology As Parliament Grinds To Halt123Photostories5 adorable pink animals stealing the wildlife spotlight5 beautiful Romeo and Juliet quotes that will steal your hearts‘Damini’, ‘OMG! Oh My God’, ‘Prem Rog’: Bollywood movies that sparked social change and redefined mainstream storytelling5 pet fish that change colour and why it happens6 Traditional egg curries from different parts of the countryAnkita Lokhande and Vicky Jain’s love story: From being close friends to getting remarried in EuropeUttarakhand Govt announces snow leopard tour to boost winter tourism; 5 other Indian spots to see the Big CatMrunal Thakur’s colourful Paithani saree is a bold love letter to Maharashtrian cultureFrom ethnic glam to chic streetwear: ‘Bigg Boss 19’ fame Farrhana Bhatt’s fashion diaryWhat is binge eating disorder and how to fix it?123Hot PicksBondi beach attackCorona RemediesJetBlue flight VenezuelaGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingJaylen Warren InjuryAuston MatthewsVanessa BryantLeBron JamesBukayo Saka and Tolami Benson Net WorthConnor McDavidDylan HollowayLebron JamesAdam FoxBam Adebayo


Fog adds to woes as Delhi air stays severe for 3rd day

NEW DELHI: Dense fog through the morning and toxic smog thereafter. Delhi continued to gasp in severe air quality for the third day. The city’s average AQI stood at 427, improving slightly from Sunday’s severe-plus level of 461 without giving no major relief. The season’s first big fog episode, cold conditions and calm winds prevented significant dispersal of pollutants. Of Delhi’s 39 air quality monitoring stations, 28 were in ‘severe’ zone as against 38 on Sunday. However, peak pollution levels stayed largely unchanged, particularly in the morning.

Fog adds to woes as Delhi air stays severe for 3rd day

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Poll of exit polls 2026 NEW DELHI: West Bengal could be on the cusp of “poriborton” with the exit polls predicting a hung assembly that could mark the end of Mamata Banerjee’s 15-year-old rule in the state. Most of the exit polls projected a neck-and-neck race between the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the BJP in West Bengal.And the other big surprise, if one pollster is to be believed, could come from the south where actor-politician Vijay’s TVK may end the DMK-AIADMK duopoly in Tamil Nadu by emerging as the single largest party. However, most of the other pollsters have given a clear edge to the DMK-Congress alliance in the state.In Assam, the BJP is predicted to score a hat-trick of victories with a big win over the Congress, which continues to struggle in the northeastern state.While in Kerala, the CPM-led LDF may be on its way out marking the end of the only Left government in the country. In Puducherry, the ruling NDA is likely to retain power with a comprehensive victory over the Congress-DMK alliance.Exit polls released on Wednesday after the conclusion of voting across four states and one Union Territory (UT) offered an indecisive picture, where entrenched incumbencies, rising challengers and new entrants may simultaneously shape electoral outcomes if the exit polls numbers hold. With results scheduled for May 4, the projections reflect both continuity and churn across regions, underscoring how state-specific dynamics continue to define voter behaviour. Poll of pollsBengal a nail-biter!In West Bengal, the numbers point to one of the most fiercely fought contests in recent memory. While individual exit polls vary, the broader trend suggests a sharply polarised electorate split almost evenly between the TMC and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which left no stone unturn to dent Mamata’s citadel. A poll of polls placed both parties at approximately 145 seats each in the 294-member assembly, with smaller parties and independents expected to secure only a marginal presence. Such projections indicate not merely a competitive race but a possible structural shift in the state’s politics. If exit polls are to be believed, the BJP, once a peripheral force in West Bengal, appears to have consolidated its position as the principal challenger, eroding the dominance of the ruling TMC. At the same time, the TMC’s ability to retain parity in these projections suggests that the incumbent still commands significant grassroots support, particularly in key districts that recorded high voter turnout.The turnout itself, hovering around 90 percent in both phases of Bengal polls, which is highest since Independence, reflects intense voter engagement. Districts such as Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, Nadia and Howrah reported particularly strong participation, suggesting that the electoral stakes were widely recognised by voters across regions. High turnout in tightly contested elections often introduces an additional layer of unpredictability, making the eventual outcome harder to forecast despite near-even projections.Suprise awaits Tamil Nadu? In Tamil Nadu, the electoral story is more nuanced, with a bold prediction by Axis My India. Most exit polls indicate that the DMK-led alliance under chief minister M K Stalin is on course to retain power, albeit with a reduced margin compared to its 2021 performance. This would mark a significant political moment in a state historically characterised by alternating mandates between the two Dravidian majors. Retaining power consecutively would signal a degree of stability and voter endorsement that has often eluded incumbents in Tamil Nadu.However, the emergence of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-politician Vijay, introduces a new variable into what has traditionally been a bipolar contest. While most projections stop short of placing TVK ahead of established parties, they consistently indicate that the party is cutting into existing vote bases. Even conservative estimates suggest that TVK could influence outcomes in multiple constituencies by redistributing votes, while more optimistic projections, such as those by Axis My India, point to a far more disruptive scenario where the party could secure between 98 and 120 seats. If such projections were to materialise, Tamil Nadu could witness a fundamental reconfiguration of its political structure, moving away from the long-standing DMK-AIADMK duopoly towards a more competitive, multi-polar framework. At the same time, projections for the AIADMK indicate a partial recovery but also highlight continuing organisational and leadership challenges that may limit its ability to fully capitalise on anti-incumbency sentiment.Status-quo in Assam?Assam, by contrast, appears to be heading towards political continuity. Exit polls from multiple agencies converge on a clear outcome of BJP’s sweep under chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The poll of polls suggests the BJP could secure around 90 seats, significantly ahead of the Congress, which is projected to remain around the 30-seat mark, with others accounting for a small fraction of the assembly. These projections reinforce the BJP’s entrenched position in the state, where it has steadily expanded its organisational base and electoral reach over successive election cycles. For the Congress, the numbers underline persistent structural challenges, with limited evidence of a resurgence despite attempts to recalibrate its campaign strategy. The outcome, if it aligns with exit poll projections, would mark a third consecutive term for the BJP, further consolidating its dominance in the northeastern region.Congresss predicted to win KeralaKerala presents perhaps the most analytically complex scenario among the five contests. Exit polls suggest a closely fought election between the Left Democratic Front and the Congress-led United Democratic Front. While the poll of polls indicates a slight edge for the UDF with around 72 seats in the 140-member assembly, the LDF is projected not far behind at approximately 63 seats, pointing to a narrow margin that could shift depending on constituency-level variations.At the same time, divergent projections from agencies such as Axis MyIndia and PMARQ highlight the uncertainty embedded in the Kerala contest. While Axis My India suggested a wider gap favouring the UDF, PMARQ predicted a majority for the ruling LDF, indicating that the final outcome remains open. This variability reflects Kerala’s unique electoral behaviour, where small swings in vote share can translate into significant seat changes due to the state’s competitive constituency landscape.The broader significance of the Kerala election lies in its departure from historical patterns. The state has traditionally alternated between the LDF and the UDF, but the LDF’s consecutive victory in 2021 disrupted this cycle. The 2026 election, therefore, becomes a test of whether that break from tradition represents a longer-term shift or a temporary deviation. A defeat for the LDF would also have implications beyond the state, potentially weakening the national footprint of the Left, for which Kerala remains a principal stronghold.Campaign narratives in Kerala have also evolved over time, with early phases dominated by issues such as corruption allegations, economic concerns, administrative controversies and localised grievances, including rehabilitation challenges following the Wayanad landslide and the Sabarimala gold heist controversy. These factors have contributed to a more issue-driven contest, where voter decisions may hinge on governance performance as much as political alignment.NDA again in Puducherry? In Puducherry, exit polls suggest a clearer outcome relative to some of the larger states. The ruling NDA, led locally by the AINRC-BJP combine, is projected to retain power against the Congress-DMK alliance. High voter turnout, recorded at nearly 89.83 percent, indicates strong public engagement, while several constituencies witnessed closely contested races. The entry of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam has added an additional layer of competition in Puducherry as well, particularly in constituencies with socio-political overlaps with neighbouring Tamil Nadu. However, despite this added complexity, most projections suggest that the incumbent alliance retains a decisive advantage, reflecting either sustained voter support or fragmentation within the opposition vote base.Across all five contests, a few common themes emerge according to the exit polls. First, the role of new political entrants, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, highlights the fluidity of voter preferences and the potential for rapid shifts in established political orders. Second, the varying degrees of incumbency advantage or disadvantage across states reflect the importance of local governance and regional narratives, particuarly in Bengal where SIR has played a crucial role. As with all exit polls, these projections must be interpreted with caution. While they provide a directional sense of the electoral mood, they are not definitive predictors of final outcomes. Variations in sampling, methodology and last-mile voter behaviour can produce results that diverge from exit poll estimates.With counting scheduled for May 4, the final verdict will determine whether the trends indicated by these projections translate into actual electoral outcomes or whether voters have delivered surprises that defy pre-result expectations. Until then, the exit polls serve as an informed but provisional outlook of a politically dynamic moments in the states and the UT under elections.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosRaghav Chadha Fallout: Who Really Wins and Loses in Punjab?Mumbai–Pune Expressway’s ‘Missing Link’ Opens May 1: Faster Travel, Better Safety, No Extra Toll90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel Costs123PhotostoriesTaarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah: Who is Nilesh Bhatt? 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Poll of exit polls 2026 NEW DELHI: West Bengal could be on the cusp of “poriborton” with the exit polls predicting a hung assembly that could mark the end of Mamata Banerjee’s 15-year-old rule in the state. Most of the exit polls projected a neck-and-neck race between the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the BJP in West Bengal.And the other big surprise, if one pollster is to be believed, could come from the south where actor-politician Vijay’s TVK may end the DMK-AIADMK duopoly in Tamil Nadu by emerging as the single largest party. However, most of the other pollsters have given a clear edge to the DMK-Congress alliance in the state.In Assam, the BJP is predicted to score a hat-trick of victories with a big win over the Congress, which continues to struggle in the northeastern state.While in Kerala, the CPM-led LDF may be on its way out marking the end of the only Left government in the country. In Puducherry, the ruling NDA is likely to retain power with a comprehensive victory over the Congress-DMK alliance.Exit polls released on Wednesday after the conclusion of voting across four states and one Union Territory (UT) offered an indecisive picture, where entrenched incumbencies, rising challengers and new entrants may simultaneously shape electoral outcomes if the exit polls numbers hold. With results scheduled for May 4, the projections reflect both continuity and churn across regions, underscoring how state-specific dynamics continue to define voter behaviour. Poll of pollsBengal a nail-biter!In West Bengal, the numbers point to one of the most fiercely fought contests in recent memory. While individual exit polls vary, the broader trend suggests a sharply polarised electorate split almost evenly between the TMC and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which left no stone unturn to dent Mamata’s citadel. A poll of polls placed both parties at approximately 145 seats each in the 294-member assembly, with smaller parties and independents expected to secure only a marginal presence. Such projections indicate not merely a competitive race but a possible structural shift in the state’s politics. If exit polls are to be believed, the BJP, once a peripheral force in West Bengal, appears to have consolidated its position as the principal challenger, eroding the dominance of the ruling TMC. At the same time, the TMC’s ability to retain parity in these projections suggests that the incumbent still commands significant grassroots support, particularly in key districts that recorded high voter turnout.The turnout itself, hovering around 90 percent in both phases of Bengal polls, which is highest since Independence, reflects intense voter engagement. Districts such as Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, Nadia and Howrah reported particularly strong participation, suggesting that the electoral stakes were widely recognised by voters across regions. High turnout in tightly contested elections often introduces an additional layer of unpredictability, making the eventual outcome harder to forecast despite near-even projections.Suprise awaits Tamil Nadu? In Tamil Nadu, the electoral story is more nuanced, with a bold prediction by Axis My India. Most exit polls indicate that the DMK-led alliance under chief minister M K Stalin is on course to retain power, albeit with a reduced margin compared to its 2021 performance. This would mark a significant political moment in a state historically characterised by alternating mandates between the two Dravidian majors. Retaining power consecutively would signal a degree of stability and voter endorsement that has often eluded incumbents in Tamil Nadu.However, the emergence of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-politician Vijay, introduces a new variable into what has traditionally been a bipolar contest. While most projections stop short of placing TVK ahead of established parties, they consistently indicate that the party is cutting into existing vote bases. Even conservative estimates suggest that TVK could influence outcomes in multiple constituencies by redistributing votes, while more optimistic projections, such as those by Axis My India, point to a far more disruptive scenario where the party could secure between 98 and 120 seats. If such projections were to materialise, Tamil Nadu could witness a fundamental reconfiguration of its political structure, moving away from the long-standing DMK-AIADMK duopoly towards a more competitive, multi-polar framework. At the same time, projections for the AIADMK indicate a partial recovery but also highlight continuing organisational and leadership challenges that may limit its ability to fully capitalise on anti-incumbency sentiment.Status-quo in Assam?Assam, by contrast, appears to be heading towards political continuity. Exit polls from multiple agencies converge on a clear outcome of BJP’s sweep under chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The poll of polls suggests the BJP could secure around 90 seats, significantly ahead of the Congress, which is projected to remain around the 30-seat mark, with others accounting for a small fraction of the assembly. These projections reinforce the BJP’s entrenched position in the state, where it has steadily expanded its organisational base and electoral reach over successive election cycles. For the Congress, the numbers underline persistent structural challenges, with limited evidence of a resurgence despite attempts to recalibrate its campaign strategy. The outcome, if it aligns with exit poll projections, would mark a third consecutive term for the BJP, further consolidating its dominance in the northeastern region.Congresss predicted to win KeralaKerala presents perhaps the most analytically complex scenario among the five contests. Exit polls suggest a closely fought election between the Left Democratic Front and the Congress-led United Democratic Front. While the poll of polls indicates a slight edge for the UDF with around 72 seats in the 140-member assembly, the LDF is projected not far behind at approximately 63 seats, pointing to a narrow margin that could shift depending on constituency-level variations.At the same time, divergent projections from agencies such as Axis MyIndia and PMARQ highlight the uncertainty embedded in the Kerala contest. While Axis My India suggested a wider gap favouring the UDF, PMARQ predicted a majority for the ruling LDF, indicating that the final outcome remains open. This variability reflects Kerala’s unique electoral behaviour, where small swings in vote share can translate into significant seat changes due to the state’s competitive constituency landscape.The broader significance of the Kerala election lies in its departure from historical patterns. The state has traditionally alternated between the LDF and the UDF, but the LDF’s consecutive victory in 2021 disrupted this cycle. The 2026 election, therefore, becomes a test of whether that break from tradition represents a longer-term shift or a temporary deviation. A defeat for the LDF would also have implications beyond the state, potentially weakening the national footprint of the Left, for which Kerala remains a principal stronghold.Campaign narratives in Kerala have also evolved over time, with early phases dominated by issues such as corruption allegations, economic concerns, administrative controversies and localised grievances, including rehabilitation challenges following the Wayanad landslide and the Sabarimala gold heist controversy. These factors have contributed to a more issue-driven contest, where voter decisions may hinge on governance performance as much as political alignment.NDA again in Puducherry? In Puducherry, exit polls suggest a clearer outcome relative to some of the larger states. The ruling NDA, led locally by the AINRC-BJP combine, is projected to retain power against the Congress-DMK alliance. High voter turnout, recorded at nearly 89.83 percent, indicates strong public engagement, while several constituencies witnessed closely contested races. The entry of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam has added an additional layer of competition in Puducherry as well, particularly in constituencies with socio-political overlaps with neighbouring Tamil Nadu. However, despite this added complexity, most projections suggest that the incumbent alliance retains a decisive advantage, reflecting either sustained voter support or fragmentation within the opposition vote base.Across all five contests, a few common themes emerge according to the exit polls. First, the role of new political entrants, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, highlights the fluidity of voter preferences and the potential for rapid shifts in established political orders. Second, the varying degrees of incumbency advantage or disadvantage across states reflect the importance of local governance and regional narratives, particuarly in Bengal where SIR has played a crucial role. As with all exit polls, these projections must be interpreted with caution. While they provide a directional sense of the electoral mood, they are not definitive predictors of final outcomes. Variations in sampling, methodology and last-mile voter behaviour can produce results that diverge from exit poll estimates.With counting scheduled for May 4, the final verdict will determine whether the trends indicated by these projections translate into actual electoral outcomes or whether voters have delivered surprises that defy pre-result expectations. Until then, the exit polls serve as an informed but provisional outlook of a politically dynamic moments in the states and the UT under elections.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosRaghav Chadha Fallout: Who Really Wins and Loses in Punjab?Mumbai–Pune Expressway’s ‘Missing Link’ Opens May 1: Faster Travel, Better Safety, No Extra Toll90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel Costs123PhotostoriesTaarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah: Who is Nilesh Bhatt? 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Vamsikrishna 0
NEW DELHI: West Bengal on Wednesday recorded a very high voter turnout of over 91% along with reports of sporadic violence during the second phase of the assembly elections.According to the Election Commission, the state registered a record 92.47% overall turnout across the two phases, the highest since Independence. The voter turnout in phase II stood around 91.66%, while phase I on April 23 had recorded 93.19%.”The combined poll percentage over the two phases stands at 92.47 per cent,” the poll watchdog said.West Bengal has a total voter base of 6.81 crore.Despite the strong participation, incidents of violence and vandalism were reported from several areas, including Chapra, Shantipur, Nimtala and Bhangar.In Chapra in Nadia district, a BJP polling agent was allegedly attacked by “miscreants linked to the ruling TMC”, according to party leaders. The injured person, identified as Mosharef Mir, was admitted to a local hospital, a senior police officer said.BJP candidate Saikat Sarkar said the incident happened after the mock poll began. “TMC supporters obstructed the BJP agent and hit him on the head, causing injury,” he said. A complaint has been filed with the local police, though the TMC denied the allegations.The injured agent claimed that 15–16 TMC supporters charged at him, one of them carrying a gun. He said he was hit with a rod and collapsed.In Shantipur, a BJP camp office in ward number 16 was vandalised on Wednesday morning, with furniture damaged, creating tension in the area, police said.In Bhangar in South 24 Parganas, an ISF agent was allegedly stopped from entering a polling booth, leading to unrest. ISF leader Arabul Islam claimed, “Agents’ forms are being snatched and they are being thrown out… Women are not being allowed to vote. We placed agents so that everyone can vote.”There were also delays in voting at booth number 140 in Nimtala, where polling had not started even by 7.30 am, causing tension among voters.An official from the chief electoral officer’s office said, “We have sought reports from the respective officials posted in these areas. They have been asked to ensure that polling is free and fair and everyone can participate without intimidation.”Despite these incidents, this election has seen record participation. Earlier, the highest turnout in the state was 84.72% in the 2011 Assembly polls.Women voters slightly outnumbered men in participation. According to EC data, 92.28% of women voted compared to 91.07% of men in this phase.Across states, voter turnout was also high. On April 9, Assam and Puducherry recorded 85.38% and 89.83% turnout respectively, their highest ever. In Tamil Nadu, women voters also outnumbered men, with 85.76% participation compared to 83.57% for men.In West Bengal, women turnout stood at 92.69%, higher than men at 90.92%.Reacting to the high turnout, CEC Gyanesh Kumar said, “For the highest ever percentage of polling in West Bengal since Independence, the EC salutes each voter of the state.”Counting of votes for West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and Assam will take place on May 4.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 MediaVideosRaghav Chadha Fallout: Who Really Wins and Loses in Punjab?Mumbai–Pune Expressway’s ‘Missing Link’ Opens May 1: Faster Travel, Better Safety, No Extra Toll90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel Costs123PhotostoriesWhy does day-old rice get dry in the refrigerator? 4 easy fixes to keep it soft and fluffy‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 release: Here is all you need to knowShe thought it was stress, doctors found a hormone disorderTamannaah Bhatia serves Andy Sachs energy at ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ India screening in a dramatic David Koma ensembleJyotiraditya Scindia carries an onion in his pocket: Why Indians follow this tradition in summerIs your child not serious about studies? 5 parental behaviours that could be the reasonTMC’s fort or BJP’s breakthrough? The 7 districts that will decide who rules Nabanna‘Baahubali 2’ 9 year anniversary: Top 5 iconic scenes that defined Prabhas’ superstardom5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damage123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimMK StalinExit Poll PredictionsHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingAssembly Election Exit PollsExit Poll results 2026Bengal Exit Polls 2026Puducherry Exit Polls 2026IPL Match TodayMI vs SRH Live ScoreRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: West Bengal on Wednesday recorded a very high voter turnout of over 91% along with reports of sporadic violence during the second phase of the assembly elections.According to the Election Commission, the state registered a record 92.47% overall turnout across the two phases, the highest since Independence. The voter turnout in phase II stood around 91.66%, while phase I on April 23 had recorded 93.19%.”The combined poll percentage over the two phases stands at 92.47 per cent,” the poll watchdog said.West Bengal has a total voter base of 6.81 crore.Despite the strong participation, incidents of violence and vandalism were reported from several areas, including Chapra, Shantipur, Nimtala and Bhangar.In Chapra in Nadia district, a BJP polling agent was allegedly attacked by “miscreants linked to the ruling TMC”, according to party leaders. The injured person, identified as Mosharef Mir, was admitted to a local hospital, a senior police officer said.BJP candidate Saikat Sarkar said the incident happened after the mock poll began. “TMC supporters obstructed the BJP agent and hit him on the head, causing injury,” he said. A complaint has been filed with the local police, though the TMC denied the allegations.The injured agent claimed that 15–16 TMC supporters charged at him, one of them carrying a gun. He said he was hit with a rod and collapsed.In Shantipur, a BJP camp office in ward number 16 was vandalised on Wednesday morning, with furniture damaged, creating tension in the area, police said.In Bhangar in South 24 Parganas, an ISF agent was allegedly stopped from entering a polling booth, leading to unrest. ISF leader Arabul Islam claimed, “Agents’ forms are being snatched and they are being thrown out… Women are not being allowed to vote. We placed agents so that everyone can vote.”There were also delays in voting at booth number 140 in Nimtala, where polling had not started even by 7.30 am, causing tension among voters.An official from the chief electoral officer’s office said, “We have sought reports from the respective officials posted in these areas. They have been asked to ensure that polling is free and fair and everyone can participate without intimidation.”Despite these incidents, this election has seen record participation. Earlier, the highest turnout in the state was 84.72% in the 2011 Assembly polls.Women voters slightly outnumbered men in participation. According to EC data, 92.28% of women voted compared to 91.07% of men in this phase.Across states, voter turnout was also high. On April 9, Assam and Puducherry recorded 85.38% and 89.83% turnout respectively, their highest ever. In Tamil Nadu, women voters also outnumbered men, with 85.76% participation compared to 83.57% for men.In West Bengal, women turnout stood at 92.69%, higher than men at 90.92%.Reacting to the high turnout, CEC Gyanesh Kumar said, “For the highest ever percentage of polling in West Bengal since Independence, the EC salutes each voter of the state.”Counting of votes for West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and Assam will take place on May 4.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 MediaVideosRaghav Chadha Fallout: Who Really Wins and Loses in Punjab?Mumbai–Pune Expressway’s ‘Missing Link’ Opens May 1: Faster Travel, Better Safety, No Extra Toll90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel Costs123PhotostoriesWhy does day-old rice get dry in the refrigerator? 4 easy fixes to keep it soft and fluffy‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 release: Here is all you need to knowShe thought it was stress, doctors found a hormone disorderTamannaah Bhatia serves Andy Sachs energy at ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ India screening in a dramatic David Koma ensembleJyotiraditya Scindia carries an onion in his pocket: Why Indians follow this tradition in summerIs your child not serious about studies? 5 parental behaviours that could be the reasonTMC’s fort or BJP’s breakthrough? The 7 districts that will decide who rules Nabanna‘Baahubali 2’ 9 year anniversary: Top 5 iconic scenes that defined Prabhas’ superstardom5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damage123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimMK StalinExit Poll PredictionsHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingAssembly Election Exit PollsExit Poll results 2026Bengal Exit Polls 2026Puducherry Exit Polls 2026IPL Match TodayMI vs SRH Live ScoreRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

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NEW DELHI: Exit poll projections for Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) have thrown up one of the most intriguing questions of the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections: is Vijay on the cusp of a breakthrough like Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi, or will he resemble Prashant Kishor’s Bihar experiment that ended in ‘arsh se farsh par’.The answer, at least today, depends on which exit poll one chooses to believe.Most projections place TVK in the 10–24 seat range, a significant debut. According to most pollsters Vijay’s party will be one that positions it as a spoiler rather than a main contender. P-Marq and Matrize projected 10–12 seats for TVK, while Peoples Pulse gives it a stronger 18–24, suggesting meaningful traction among urban and youth voters. In this scenario, Vijay’s party could end up splitting anti-incumbent votes, indirectly aiding the DMK.But then comes the outlier.Axis MyIndia projected a dramatic surge, giving TVK 98–120 seats – numbers that, if turned into reality on May 4, would catapult Vijay into the centre of Tamil Nadu politics overnight. That would place him in Kejriwal territory: a first-time entrant not just breaking through, but becoming the centre of state politics.And Vijay also has his superstar Thalaivar image – something that has worked in Tamil Nadu for years with the rise of MG Ramachandran and the J Jayalalithaa.However, unlike Delhi in 2013, where Kejriwal rode a singular anti-corruption wave, Tamil Nadu’s contest is layered, entrenched in Dravidian politics, strong party machinery, and decaded-old voter loyalties. Even a strong showing for TVK does not automatically translate into power unless it converts popularity into booth-level efficiency, an area where established players like the DMK and AIADMK retain a clear edge.However, if these exit polls turn out to be wrong on May 4, and Vijay’s grand political debut becomes a flop show, it would be similar to what we saw last year in Bihar.While there was much discussion around political mastermind Prashant Kishor’s debut, his Jan Suraaj Party failed to even open its account in assembly elections. The comparison with Prashant Kishor is instructive in another way. Kishor’s Bihar push aimed to create an alternative political space but struggled to translate visibility into votes at scale. If TVK’s performance remains in the lower range of projections, it may still succeed in altering vote shares and future alignments, without immediately challenging for power.So, is Vijay the next outsider who can convert momentum into mandate, as Kejriwal once did? Or will he fail to make any impact, like Kishor’s early political foray?The answer will only become clear on May 4. 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 MediaVideosRaghav Chadha Fallout: Who Really Wins and Loses in Punjab?Mumbai–Pune Expressway’s ‘Missing Link’ Opens May 1: Faster Travel, Better Safety, No Extra Toll90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel Costs123PhotostoriesWhy does day-old rice get dry in the refrigerator? 4 easy fixes to keep it soft and fluffy‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 release: Here is all you need to knowShe thought it was stress, doctors found a hormone disorderTamannaah Bhatia serves Andy Sachs energy at ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ India screening in a dramatic David Koma ensembleJyotiraditya Scindia carries an onion in his pocket: Why Indians follow this tradition in summerIs your child not serious about studies? 5 parental behaviours that could be the reasonTMC’s fort or BJP’s breakthrough? The 7 districts that will decide who rules Nabanna‘Baahubali 2’ 9 year anniversary: Top 5 iconic scenes that defined Prabhas’ superstardom5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damage123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimMK StalinExit Poll PredictionsHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingAssembly Election Exit PollsExit Poll results 2026Bengal Exit Polls 2026Puducherry Exit Polls 2026IPL Match TodayMI vs SRH Live ScoreRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: Exit poll projections for Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) have thrown up one of the most intriguing questions of the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections: is Vijay on the cusp of a breakthrough like Arvind Kejriwal in Delhi, or will he resemble Prashant Kishor’s Bihar experiment that ended in ‘arsh se farsh par’.The answer, at least today, depends on which exit poll one chooses to believe.Most projections place TVK in the 10–24 seat range, a significant debut. According to most pollsters Vijay’s party will be one that positions it as a spoiler rather than a main contender. P-Marq and Matrize projected 10–12 seats for TVK, while Peoples Pulse gives it a stronger 18–24, suggesting meaningful traction among urban and youth voters. In this scenario, Vijay’s party could end up splitting anti-incumbent votes, indirectly aiding the DMK.But then comes the outlier.Axis MyIndia projected a dramatic surge, giving TVK 98–120 seats – numbers that, if turned into reality on May 4, would catapult Vijay into the centre of Tamil Nadu politics overnight. That would place him in Kejriwal territory: a first-time entrant not just breaking through, but becoming the centre of state politics.And Vijay also has his superstar Thalaivar image – something that has worked in Tamil Nadu for years with the rise of MG Ramachandran and the J Jayalalithaa.However, unlike Delhi in 2013, where Kejriwal rode a singular anti-corruption wave, Tamil Nadu’s contest is layered, entrenched in Dravidian politics, strong party machinery, and decaded-old voter loyalties. Even a strong showing for TVK does not automatically translate into power unless it converts popularity into booth-level efficiency, an area where established players like the DMK and AIADMK retain a clear edge.However, if these exit polls turn out to be wrong on May 4, and Vijay’s grand political debut becomes a flop show, it would be similar to what we saw last year in Bihar.While there was much discussion around political mastermind Prashant Kishor’s debut, his Jan Suraaj Party failed to even open its account in assembly elections. The comparison with Prashant Kishor is instructive in another way. Kishor’s Bihar push aimed to create an alternative political space but struggled to translate visibility into votes at scale. If TVK’s performance remains in the lower range of projections, it may still succeed in altering vote shares and future alignments, without immediately challenging for power.So, is Vijay the next outsider who can convert momentum into mandate, as Kejriwal once did? Or will he fail to make any impact, like Kishor’s early political foray?The answer will only become clear on May 4. 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 MediaVideosRaghav Chadha Fallout: Who Really Wins and Loses in Punjab?Mumbai–Pune Expressway’s ‘Missing Link’ Opens May 1: Faster Travel, Better Safety, No Extra Toll90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel Costs123PhotostoriesWhy does day-old rice get dry in the refrigerator? 4 easy fixes to keep it soft and fluffy‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 release: Here is all you need to knowShe thought it was stress, doctors found a hormone disorderTamannaah Bhatia serves Andy Sachs energy at ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ India screening in a dramatic David Koma ensembleJyotiraditya Scindia carries an onion in his pocket: Why Indians follow this tradition in summerIs your child not serious about studies? 5 parental behaviours that could be the reasonTMC’s fort or BJP’s breakthrough? The 7 districts that will decide who rules Nabanna‘Baahubali 2’ 9 year anniversary: Top 5 iconic scenes that defined Prabhas’ superstardom5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damage123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimMK StalinExit Poll PredictionsHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingAssembly Election Exit PollsExit Poll results 2026Bengal Exit Polls 2026Puducherry Exit Polls 2026IPL Match TodayMI vs SRH Live ScoreRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0