April 19, 2026

ANI photo AGARTALA: The unprecedented flight disruptions across India have extended a family’s wait to give the final farewell to their young son, prolonging their agony. The body of 23-year-old Saptarshi Das from Ramnagar in Agartala has been holed up at a mortuary in Delhi for past three days.Saptarshi, a medical intern at a private hospital in Lucknow, died in a road accident on Delhi-Lucknow national highway on the night of Dec 3. His friends Arnav Chakraborty, Ayush Sharma and Shrestha Pancholi also lost their lives in the accident. Their car overturned after colliding at a high speed with a stationary truck.Following an autopsy, Saptarshi’s body was released to his family for transportation to Agartala for the last rites. However, the sudden cancellation of flights by IndiGo led to a frustrating cycle of returning the body to the mortuary and booking hotel accommodations, while scouting for alternative options.Saptarshi’s mother Arpita Debsarkar said her family was repeatedly promised about flights, only to discover they had been cancelled at the last moment, and had to navigate back and forth between the mortuary, hotel & airport. Saptarshi was nearing the completion of his MBBS internship at Venkateshwar Medical University, with just three months left, his mother said.Chaos still persists at Agartala’s Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport as a result of the flight disruptions. In past two days alone, three flights per day have been cancelled, leaving hundreds of passengers, including patients, stranded at the airport lounge. Frustrated travellers have accused both IndiGo and Airports Authority of India of failing to fulfil their obligations.About the AuthorBiswendu BhattacharjeeHe is a seasoned journalist and the Times of India correspondent based in Agartala, Tripura. He has been reporting on political, social, and regional developments in northeast India and is one of the oldest TOI man on the ground.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Maligning Hindu Way Of Life’: PM Modi Calls Out Colonial Mindset Over ‘Hindu Rate Of Growth’ LabelUP CM Yogi Slams Parties ‘Insulting Babasaheb’s Legacy’, Announces Security For Ambedkar Statues’Engaging Atmosphere Reigned’: Shashi Tharoor After State Dinner With Russian President Putin’Sab Jagah Pohchenge’: Yogi Adityanath On What’s Next After Ram Temple, ‘Kashi-Mathura’ Slogan’Black Day’: Owaisi Targets Modi Govt, Questions Acquittals In Babri Masjid Demolition CasePutin Dinner Snub Triggers War of Word: Priyanka Chaturvedi Slams ‘Petty’ Politics, BJP Blasts RahulHow Russia May Open Central Asia For India As West Pushes Harder: Kugelman Explains The Power ShiftAviation Meltdown Escalates As IndiGo Cancels 400 Flights And Government Enforces Fare ControlsUS Singer Calls PM Modi World’s Top Leader, Warns Washington To Recalibrate Its India Strategy FastEx-Pentagon Official Says Asim Munir Must Be Arrested As He Slams US Policy, Calls For India Apology123PhotostoriesIn pics: Sourav Joshi and Avantika Bhatt’s simple Pahadi wedding fashion is a hit!Thought of the day for your child: “You are capable of amazing things”7 fish that make your aquarium instantly InstagrammableJhol Momo to Paalak Methi Mattar ka Saag: 15 dishes Vladimir Putin was served on his India tripSara Khan marries Krish Pathak in both Hindu and Muslim rituals, drops new photos; says ‘Qubool Hai se Saat Phere tak’Stressed and stiff? 4 yoga moves for instant relief10 reminders every working mom who feels guilty needs to hear todayBigg Boss 19: From making shocking revelations about a luxurious lifestyle to Ekta Kapoor offering her a project; finalist Tanya Mittal’s journey10 tips to keep your baby warm and cozy this winter9 one-pot South Indian vegetarian rice dishes to try123Hot PicksIndigo Flight DelayPutin India VisitWorld NewsGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingCaeleb Dressel Net WorthDelhi Airport AdvisoryIndigo Flight CancellationCandace OwensAryna Sabalenka Net WorthHow to get danny Phantom in FortniteTravis KelceJohn Cena FinalJEE Advanced Exam DateDDA RecruitmentExam Schedule

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
ANI photo AGARTALA: The unprecedented flight disruptions across India have extended a family’s wait to give the final farewell to their young son, prolonging their agony. The body of 23-year-old Saptarshi Das from Ramnagar in Agartala has been holed up at a mortuary in Delhi for past three days.Saptarshi, a medical intern at a private hospital in Lucknow, died in a road accident on Delhi-Lucknow national highway on the night of Dec 3. His friends Arnav Chakraborty, Ayush Sharma and Shrestha Pancholi also lost their lives in the accident. Their car overturned after colliding at a high speed with a stationary truck.Following an autopsy, Saptarshi’s body was released to his family for transportation to Agartala for the last rites. However, the sudden cancellation of flights by IndiGo led to a frustrating cycle of returning the body to the mortuary and booking hotel accommodations, while scouting for alternative options.Saptarshi’s mother Arpita Debsarkar said her family was repeatedly promised about flights, only to discover they had been cancelled at the last moment, and had to navigate back and forth between the mortuary, hotel & airport. Saptarshi was nearing the completion of his MBBS internship at Venkateshwar Medical University, with just three months left, his mother said.Chaos still persists at Agartala’s Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport as a result of the flight disruptions. In past two days alone, three flights per day have been cancelled, leaving hundreds of passengers, including patients, stranded at the airport lounge. Frustrated travellers have accused both IndiGo and Airports Authority of India of failing to fulfil their obligations.About the AuthorBiswendu BhattacharjeeHe is a seasoned journalist and the Times of India correspondent based in Agartala, Tripura. He has been reporting on political, social, and regional developments in northeast India and is one of the oldest TOI man on the ground.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Maligning Hindu Way Of Life’: PM Modi Calls Out Colonial Mindset Over ‘Hindu Rate Of Growth’ LabelUP CM Yogi Slams Parties ‘Insulting Babasaheb’s Legacy’, Announces Security For Ambedkar Statues’Engaging Atmosphere Reigned’: Shashi Tharoor After State Dinner With Russian President Putin’Sab Jagah Pohchenge’: Yogi Adityanath On What’s Next After Ram Temple, ‘Kashi-Mathura’ Slogan’Black Day’: Owaisi Targets Modi Govt, Questions Acquittals In Babri Masjid Demolition CasePutin Dinner Snub Triggers War of Word: Priyanka Chaturvedi Slams ‘Petty’ Politics, BJP Blasts RahulHow Russia May Open Central Asia For India As West Pushes Harder: Kugelman Explains The Power ShiftAviation Meltdown Escalates As IndiGo Cancels 400 Flights And Government Enforces Fare ControlsUS Singer Calls PM Modi World’s Top Leader, Warns Washington To Recalibrate Its India Strategy FastEx-Pentagon Official Says Asim Munir Must Be Arrested As He Slams US Policy, Calls For India Apology123PhotostoriesIn pics: Sourav Joshi and Avantika Bhatt’s simple Pahadi wedding fashion is a hit!Thought of the day for your child: “You are capable of amazing things”7 fish that make your aquarium instantly InstagrammableJhol Momo to Paalak Methi Mattar ka Saag: 15 dishes Vladimir Putin was served on his India tripSara Khan marries Krish Pathak in both Hindu and Muslim rituals, drops new photos; says ‘Qubool Hai se Saat Phere tak’Stressed and stiff? 4 yoga moves for instant relief10 reminders every working mom who feels guilty needs to hear todayBigg Boss 19: From making shocking revelations about a luxurious lifestyle to Ekta Kapoor offering her a project; finalist Tanya Mittal’s journey10 tips to keep your baby warm and cozy this winter9 one-pot South Indian vegetarian rice dishes to try123Hot PicksIndigo Flight DelayPutin India VisitWorld NewsGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingCaeleb Dressel Net WorthDelhi Airport AdvisoryIndigo Flight CancellationCandace OwensAryna Sabalenka Net WorthHow to get danny Phantom in FortniteTravis KelceJohn Cena FinalJEE Advanced Exam DateDDA RecruitmentExam Schedule


IndiGo fiasco: Body of Tripura med student who died in UP stuck in Delhi

AGARTALA: The unprecedented flight disruptions across India have extended a family’s wait to give the final farewell to their young son, prolonging their agony. The body of 23-year-old Saptarshi Das from Ramnagar in Agartala has been holed up at a mortuary in Delhi for past three days.Saptarshi, a medical intern at a private hospital in Lucknow, died in a road accident on Delhi-Lucknow national highway on the night of Dec 3. His friends Arnav Chakraborty, Ayush Sharma and Shrestha Pancholi also lost their lives in the accident. Their car overturned after colliding at a high speed with a stationary truck.Following an autopsy, Saptarshi’s body was released to his family for transportation to Agartala for the last rites. However, the sudden cancellation of flights by IndiGo led to a frustrating cycle of returning the body to the mortuary and booking hotel accommodations, while scouting for alternative options.Saptarshi’s mother Arpita Debsarkar said her family was repeatedly promised about flights, only to discover they had been cancelled at the last moment, and had to navigate back and forth between the mortuary, hotel & airport. Saptarshi was nearing the completion of his MBBS internship at Venkateshwar Medical University, with just three months left, his mother said.Chaos still persists at Agartala’s Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport as a result of the flight disruptions. In past two days alone, three flights per day have been cancelled, leaving hundreds of passengers, including patients, stranded at the airport lounge. Frustrated travellers have accused both IndiGo and Airports Authority of India of failing to fulfil their obligations.





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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee (File photo) The 2026 West Bengal Assembly election is once again being fought not just on governance, welfare, or corruption, but on something far more visceral. The identity. As the campaign sharpens, the familiar charge of “bohiragoto” has returned to the centre of the political stage, with the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) reviving a narrative that helped it decisively blunt the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) five years ago. The immediate trigger this time, as seen in the reaction to Leander Paes joining the BJP, shows how quickly the labels are deployed as “outsider, parachuted, not one of us”.But if the TMC has revived the “outsider” charge, the BJP in 2026 is attempting to respond with a different line of argument rather than engaging only in denial. The party has increasingly foregrounded the issue of illegal infiltration, alleging that the state government has been “lenient” towards undocumented migrants and that this has implications for Bengal’s demographic and cultural landscape.From the BJP’s perspective, this shifts the debate from whether it is an “outsider” political force to a broader question of who constitutes an “outsider” within Bengal itself. The TMC, however, has rejected these claims and framed them as “politically motivated”, maintaining that the BJP is raising such concerns to counter the perception of being culturally disconnected from the state. This marks a significant evolution in the insider-outsider politics of Bengal or or “bhadralok vs bohiragoto” narrative.The insider versus outsider framing did not originate in 2026, but the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections marked its most effective deployment. Faced with an aggressive BJP expansion, CM Mamata Banerjee transformed what could have been a standard anti-incumbency battle into a referendum on identity. Her message was simple and politically potent that Bengal must be governed by those who belong to it.The 2021 slogan “Bangla Nijer Meyekei Chay” reframed the contest as belonging versus intrusion. The BJP, led prominently in the state campaign by figures like Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, was cast as an external force attempting to capture Bengal politically and culturally.The BJP did have a growing base in Bengal and several Bengali leaders, but the visibility of central leadership and the party’s campaign style allowed the TMC to successfully construct the image of an “outsider party”.The results of 2021 reinforced its effectiveness. The TMC returned to power with a commanding mandate, and the outsider narrative was widely seen as one of the factors that consolidated support across regions and demographics. However, what has changed in 2026 is the BJP’s strategic response.Instead of only asserting its local credentials, the BJP is reframing the identity debate around demographics and citizenship. It has consistently accused the TMC of accommodating illegal immigrants, particularly from neighbouring Bangladesh, and argued that this is altering the cultural and electoral character of the state. In this telling, the question is no longer whether the BJP is an outsider, but whether Bengal itself is being transformed from within.The argument maybe politically loaded but it appears BJP has been trying to reposition itself not as an external force, but as a “protector” of Bengali identity as the party has claimed that unchecked infiltration would dilute local culture, strain resources, and reshape voting patterns, and that the TMC’s alleged tolerance of this process is “driven by vote-bank politics”.In a direct inversion of the TMC’s framing where Mamata Banerjee positions herself as the defender of Bengal against outsiders from Delhi, the BJP positions itself as the defender of Bengal against outsiders crossing the border.Alongside this, the BJP has also sharpened its argument to counter the “outsider party” label. It frequently invoked Syama Prasad Mukherjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the ideological predecessor of the BJP, who was himself a Bengali and a prominent figure in the state’s political history. By doing so, the BJP attempts to anchor its legitimacy within Bengal’s own political lineage.This may just not be symbolic. It is also an attempt by the BJP to counter the TMC’s framing by pointing to its ideological lineage, including figures like Syama Prasad Mukherjee, who was from Bengal. The argument, as put forward by the party’s local unit, is that its roots are not entirely external to the state, even if its current leadership and structure are national in character.At the same time, the BJP has sought to localise its campaign more carefully than in 2021, placing greater emphasis on Bengali leadership, cultural references, and region-specific messaging. This reflects an acknowledgement that electoral contests in West Bengal are shaped significantly by perceptions of cultural familiarity and regional connect.Even so, a structural tension persists. The BJP’s political model is anchored in a strong central leadership and a national identity, while West Bengal’s political culture has historically responded more strongly to regional idioms and locally rooted leadership. Managing this balance remains an ongoing challenge for the party.Fish-ing for votesIn the polls, even food has become a flashpoint in the 2026 campaign. CM Mamata Banerjee has alleged the BJP could restrict fish, meat and egg consumption, framing it as a threat to Bengali culture. The BJP has rejected this, with leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, countering the claims and making visible efforts to signal alignment with local food traditions.In Pandaveswar, BJP candidate Jitendra Nath Tiwari filed nomination papers with a “fish procession,” supporters carrying baskets while he held a large one. He said, “If promoting West Bengal’s culture is drama, I am proud of this drama.” CM Mamata BanerjeeThe TMC, for its part, has continued with its established framing. It emphasises language, culture, and lifestyle as markers of identity, and often questions whether the BJP’s political approach aligns with Bengal’s social and cultural context. Issues such as food habits, language use, and everyday practices are frequently invoked to underline this distinction.What makes the 2026 contest particularly notable is that both narratives are now operating simultaneously. The TMC continues to portray the BJP as an external political force, while the BJP raises concerns around illegal infiltration and its potential impact, arguing that this too is a question of identity and belonging. The TMC, however, rejects these claims and characterises them as politically motivated.The result is a layered identity debate, where the idea of an “outsider” is being defined in different ways. For voters, the choice is not only between two parties, but also between competing interpretations of belonging and representation.The outsider questionThis dynamic is not entirely unique to West Bengal, though its intensity here is distinctive.In Maharashtra, for instance, the politics of regional identity has long been associated with the Shiv Sena, which built support around the idea of protecting local interests against migrants. While the context differs, the broader linkage between identity and political legitimacy is similar.In Tamil Nadu, parties such as the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam have historically foregrounded language and regional identity, often positioning themselves against perceived cultural imposition from outside the state.Assam presents another variation, where debates around migration and citizenship have played a central role in shaping political discourse and electoral outcomes.Narrative vs strategyWhat sets West Bengal apart is the extent to which cultural identity and electoral strategy have become intertwined. The debate extends beyond economics or migration to include language, literature, food, and a broader sense of cultural self-definition. This helps explain why the narrative continues to hold relevance in 2026.The episode involving Leander Paes also highlights how fluid the definition of “insider” can be within this context. Despite his long-standing association with Kolkata, his political shift prompted questions about belonging, underscoring how identity in political discourse can be shaped by alignment as much as by background.The BJP’s emphasis on infiltration introduces an additional dimension to the debate, adding to the existing insider-outsider framing rather than replacing it. This has broadened the conversation from political identity to questions of demography and governance, even as these claims remain contested.As voters head to the polls, this layered contest is likely to influence perceptions alongside more traditional issues such as employment, development, and law and order. Both parties appear to be combining identity-based messaging with policy-oriented promises.Over the past decade, one consistent feature of West Bengal’s politics has been the centrality of belonging in electoral discourse.In 2026, that contest over belonging continues, shaped by competing narratives and evolving political strategies.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosManipur Streets Erupt As Security Forces Fire Tear Gas On Protesters | WatchManipur Horror: Retired Soldier Among Two Shot Dead In Ukhrul Highway AttackWhat We Know About Indian Ships Hit In Hormuz Strait By Iran Gunboats And Unknown ProjectilePakistan Clears Bn UAE Debt As Saudi Extends Bn Deposit TermPakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Under US Scanner, Flagged As Risk For Trump Team’Our Relationship Very Strong’: Iran’s Abdul Majid On Hormuz Firing Incident On Indian VesselsCong, TMC, DMK Guilty’, PM Modi Blasts Oppn For Blocking Women Reservation BillIndia Summons Iran Envoy Summoned After Ships Targeted In Strait of Hormuz | WatchWomen’s Reservation Amendment Fails In Lok Sabha, Delimitation Bill Put On HoldYogi Adityanath Alleges ‘Identity Crisis’ In Bengal, Targets TMC Over Governance123PhotostoriesAs Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh announce second pregnancy, a look at Bollywood’s cutest pregnancy announcementsInside Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez’s parenting style: How they’re raising grounded, disciplined teen sons7 factors driving property price growth in Indian metro citiesFrom lotus feet darshan to reopening of Gangotri Temple: 5 rare spiritual journeys to experience this Akshaya TritiyaSamay Raina reveals financial struggles after India’s Got Latent controversy; says, ‘I lost everything, I feared going broke and in debt’Why Mumbai’s Churchgate–Virar, CSMT–Kalyan routes are being considered for underground shiftBaby names inspired by everyday qualities parents quietly admireWorm or snake? 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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee (File photo) The 2026 West Bengal Assembly election is once again being fought not just on governance, welfare, or corruption, but on something far more visceral. The identity. As the campaign sharpens, the familiar charge of “bohiragoto” has returned to the centre of the political stage, with the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) reviving a narrative that helped it decisively blunt the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) five years ago. The immediate trigger this time, as seen in the reaction to Leander Paes joining the BJP, shows how quickly the labels are deployed as “outsider, parachuted, not one of us”.But if the TMC has revived the “outsider” charge, the BJP in 2026 is attempting to respond with a different line of argument rather than engaging only in denial. The party has increasingly foregrounded the issue of illegal infiltration, alleging that the state government has been “lenient” towards undocumented migrants and that this has implications for Bengal’s demographic and cultural landscape.From the BJP’s perspective, this shifts the debate from whether it is an “outsider” political force to a broader question of who constitutes an “outsider” within Bengal itself. The TMC, however, has rejected these claims and framed them as “politically motivated”, maintaining that the BJP is raising such concerns to counter the perception of being culturally disconnected from the state. This marks a significant evolution in the insider-outsider politics of Bengal or or “bhadralok vs bohiragoto” narrative.The insider versus outsider framing did not originate in 2026, but the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections marked its most effective deployment. Faced with an aggressive BJP expansion, CM Mamata Banerjee transformed what could have been a standard anti-incumbency battle into a referendum on identity. Her message was simple and politically potent that Bengal must be governed by those who belong to it.The 2021 slogan “Bangla Nijer Meyekei Chay” reframed the contest as belonging versus intrusion. The BJP, led prominently in the state campaign by figures like Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, was cast as an external force attempting to capture Bengal politically and culturally.The BJP did have a growing base in Bengal and several Bengali leaders, but the visibility of central leadership and the party’s campaign style allowed the TMC to successfully construct the image of an “outsider party”.The results of 2021 reinforced its effectiveness. The TMC returned to power with a commanding mandate, and the outsider narrative was widely seen as one of the factors that consolidated support across regions and demographics. However, what has changed in 2026 is the BJP’s strategic response.Instead of only asserting its local credentials, the BJP is reframing the identity debate around demographics and citizenship. It has consistently accused the TMC of accommodating illegal immigrants, particularly from neighbouring Bangladesh, and argued that this is altering the cultural and electoral character of the state. In this telling, the question is no longer whether the BJP is an outsider, but whether Bengal itself is being transformed from within.The argument maybe politically loaded but it appears BJP has been trying to reposition itself not as an external force, but as a “protector” of Bengali identity as the party has claimed that unchecked infiltration would dilute local culture, strain resources, and reshape voting patterns, and that the TMC’s alleged tolerance of this process is “driven by vote-bank politics”.In a direct inversion of the TMC’s framing where Mamata Banerjee positions herself as the defender of Bengal against outsiders from Delhi, the BJP positions itself as the defender of Bengal against outsiders crossing the border.Alongside this, the BJP has also sharpened its argument to counter the “outsider party” label. It frequently invoked Syama Prasad Mukherjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the ideological predecessor of the BJP, who was himself a Bengali and a prominent figure in the state’s political history. By doing so, the BJP attempts to anchor its legitimacy within Bengal’s own political lineage.This may just not be symbolic. It is also an attempt by the BJP to counter the TMC’s framing by pointing to its ideological lineage, including figures like Syama Prasad Mukherjee, who was from Bengal. The argument, as put forward by the party’s local unit, is that its roots are not entirely external to the state, even if its current leadership and structure are national in character.At the same time, the BJP has sought to localise its campaign more carefully than in 2021, placing greater emphasis on Bengali leadership, cultural references, and region-specific messaging. This reflects an acknowledgement that electoral contests in West Bengal are shaped significantly by perceptions of cultural familiarity and regional connect.Even so, a structural tension persists. The BJP’s political model is anchored in a strong central leadership and a national identity, while West Bengal’s political culture has historically responded more strongly to regional idioms and locally rooted leadership. Managing this balance remains an ongoing challenge for the party.Fish-ing for votesIn the polls, even food has become a flashpoint in the 2026 campaign. CM Mamata Banerjee has alleged the BJP could restrict fish, meat and egg consumption, framing it as a threat to Bengali culture. The BJP has rejected this, with leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, countering the claims and making visible efforts to signal alignment with local food traditions.In Pandaveswar, BJP candidate Jitendra Nath Tiwari filed nomination papers with a “fish procession,” supporters carrying baskets while he held a large one. He said, “If promoting West Bengal’s culture is drama, I am proud of this drama.” CM Mamata BanerjeeThe TMC, for its part, has continued with its established framing. It emphasises language, culture, and lifestyle as markers of identity, and often questions whether the BJP’s political approach aligns with Bengal’s social and cultural context. Issues such as food habits, language use, and everyday practices are frequently invoked to underline this distinction.What makes the 2026 contest particularly notable is that both narratives are now operating simultaneously. The TMC continues to portray the BJP as an external political force, while the BJP raises concerns around illegal infiltration and its potential impact, arguing that this too is a question of identity and belonging. The TMC, however, rejects these claims and characterises them as politically motivated.The result is a layered identity debate, where the idea of an “outsider” is being defined in different ways. For voters, the choice is not only between two parties, but also between competing interpretations of belonging and representation.The outsider questionThis dynamic is not entirely unique to West Bengal, though its intensity here is distinctive.In Maharashtra, for instance, the politics of regional identity has long been associated with the Shiv Sena, which built support around the idea of protecting local interests against migrants. While the context differs, the broader linkage between identity and political legitimacy is similar.In Tamil Nadu, parties such as the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam have historically foregrounded language and regional identity, often positioning themselves against perceived cultural imposition from outside the state.Assam presents another variation, where debates around migration and citizenship have played a central role in shaping political discourse and electoral outcomes.Narrative vs strategyWhat sets West Bengal apart is the extent to which cultural identity and electoral strategy have become intertwined. The debate extends beyond economics or migration to include language, literature, food, and a broader sense of cultural self-definition. This helps explain why the narrative continues to hold relevance in 2026.The episode involving Leander Paes also highlights how fluid the definition of “insider” can be within this context. Despite his long-standing association with Kolkata, his political shift prompted questions about belonging, underscoring how identity in political discourse can be shaped by alignment as much as by background.The BJP’s emphasis on infiltration introduces an additional dimension to the debate, adding to the existing insider-outsider framing rather than replacing it. This has broadened the conversation from political identity to questions of demography and governance, even as these claims remain contested.As voters head to the polls, this layered contest is likely to influence perceptions alongside more traditional issues such as employment, development, and law and order. Both parties appear to be combining identity-based messaging with policy-oriented promises.Over the past decade, one consistent feature of West Bengal’s politics has been the centrality of belonging in electoral discourse.In 2026, that contest over belonging continues, shaped by competing narratives and evolving political strategies.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosManipur Streets Erupt As Security Forces Fire Tear Gas On Protesters | WatchManipur Horror: Retired Soldier Among Two Shot Dead In Ukhrul Highway AttackWhat We Know About Indian Ships Hit In Hormuz Strait By Iran Gunboats And Unknown ProjectilePakistan Clears $2Bn UAE Debt As Saudi Extends $3Bn Deposit TermPakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Under US Scanner, Flagged As Risk For Trump Team’Our Relationship Very Strong’: Iran’s Abdul Majid On Hormuz Firing Incident On Indian VesselsCong, TMC, DMK Guilty’, PM Modi Blasts Oppn For Blocking Women Reservation BillIndia Summons Iran Envoy Summoned After Ships Targeted In Strait of Hormuz | WatchWomen’s Reservation Amendment Fails In Lok Sabha, Delimitation Bill Put On HoldYogi Adityanath Alleges ‘Identity Crisis’ In Bengal, Targets TMC Over Governance123PhotostoriesAs Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh announce second pregnancy, a look at Bollywood’s cutest pregnancy announcementsInside Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez’s parenting style: How they’re raising grounded, disciplined teen sons7 factors driving property price growth in Indian metro citiesFrom lotus feet darshan to reopening of Gangotri Temple: 5 rare spiritual journeys to experience this Akshaya TritiyaSamay Raina reveals financial struggles after India’s Got Latent controversy; says, ‘I lost everything, I feared going broke and in debt’Why Mumbai’s Churchgate–Virar, CSMT–Kalyan routes are being considered for underground shiftBaby names inspired by everyday qualities parents quietly admireWorm or snake? Woman finds a crawly inside a cabbage: FSSAI’s safety guidelines on how to clean veggies and fruits‘Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6’: From Raqesh Bapat-Vishal Kotian’s ugly clash to Rakhi Sawant’s fiery face-offs, moments that defined the seasonInside Anil Kumble’s crores worth Bangalore villa: A thoughtfully designed abode with lush gardens, sunlit interiors and family living123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingIPL Orange Cap 2026VijayPM Modi LiveWorld Largest EconomySue BirdIce SpicePahalgam Pony Wallah StoryWomen Quota BillE Coli Smuggling CaseErika Kirk Event

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‘MK Stalin wants to make his son CM’: Amit Shah slams DMK dynasty politics NEW DELHI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday intensified the BJP’s campaign in Tamil Nadu with a high-profile roadshow in the Modakurichi Assembly constituency, launching a blistering attack on the ruling DMK’s record on corruption and dynastic politics while expressing confidence in the NDA-AIADMK alliance’s prospects in the April 23 election.Campaigning for BJP candidate Kirthika Shivkumar, Shah vowed to clean up the state administration and alleged that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s primary objective was to secure power for the next generation of his family. Watch Women’s Reservation Amendment Fails In Lok Sabha, Delimitation Bill Put On Hold “Our government will end the DMK’s corruption,” Shah told supporters during the roadshow. “I want to appeal to ensure the victory of the NDA’s BJP candidate, Kirthika Shivkumar, with a landslide victory.”Nepotism and CorruptionA central theme of Shah’s address was the criticism of the DMK’s dynastic politics. He targeted Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, claiming his primary objective was to secure power for the next generation of his family. “MK Stalin wants to make his son (Udhayanidhi Stalin) the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu,” Shah alleged, noting the succession from M. Karunanidhi to M.K. Stalin, and now to Udhayanidhi. “This family nepotism will never do good for the people of Tamil Nadu,” he added.The Women’s Reservation TangleShah also used the platform to target the opposition on the issue of legislative representation for women. He accused both the Congress and the DMK of actively blocking progress and hindering Tamil Nadu’s growth in terms of parliamentary seats. “Congress and DMK stopped women from coming to Parliament, and they also declined the seat increment of Tamil Nadu,” he alleged.This came a day after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, campaigning in the state, alleged that Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah had “lied” to the nation about the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, claiming the “diabolical idea” hidden behind it was to change the electoral map and weaken southern states.NDA’s Show of UnityShah reaffirmed the strength of the partnership between the NDA and the AIADMK, projecting a victory for the alliance under the leadership of Edappadi K. Palaniswami . “We are confident of forming an NDA government here, together with the AIADMK, under the leadership of Edappadi Palaniswami,” Shah said.Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4. The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, which includes the Congress, DMDK and VCK, and the NDA led by AIADMK, with the BJP and PMK as allies.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 MediaVideosManipur Horror: Retired Soldier Among Two Shot Dead In Ukhrul Highway AttackWhat We Know About Indian Ships Hit In Hormuz Strait By Iran Gunboats And Unknown ProjectilePakistan Clears Bn UAE Debt As Saudi Extends Bn Deposit TermPakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Under US Scanner, Flagged As Risk For Trump Team’Our Relationship Very Strong’: Iran’s Abdul Majid On Hormuz Firing Incident On Indian VesselsCong, TMC, DMK Guilty’, PM Modi Blasts Oppn For Blocking Women Reservation BillIndia Summons Iran Envoy Summoned After Ships Targeted In Strait of Hormuz | WatchWomen’s Reservation Amendment Fails In Lok Sabha, Delimitation Bill Put On HoldYogi Adityanath Alleges ‘Identity Crisis’ In Bengal, Targets TMC Over GovernanceBJP Leaders Protest Outside Rahul’s Residence Over Women Quota Bill; Hema Malini, Bansuri Lead123PhotostoriesSamay Raina reveals financial struggles after India’s Got Latent controversy; says, ‘I lost everything, I feared going broke and in debt’Why Mumbai’s Churchgate–Virar, CSMT–Kalyan routes are being considered for underground shiftBaby names inspired by everyday qualities parents quietly admireWorm or snake? Woman finds a crawly inside a cabbage: FSSAI’s safety guidelines on how to clean veggies and fruits‘Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6’: From Raqesh Bapat-Vishal Kotian’s ugly clash to Rakhi Sawant’s fiery face-offs, moments that defined the seasonInside Anil Kumble’s crores worth Bangalore villa: A thoughtfully designed abode with lush gardens, sunlit interiors and family livingWhy whale vomit is worth millions for humans150-km road network, 46km of flyovers, underpasses: Delhi plans major push to ease traffic congestionSandra Bullock’s best movies to watch on OTT: ‘Speed’, ‘Bird Box’ and moreDhurandhar actor Ranveer Singh loves this spread innovated in the 1940s: Here are 6 ways you can enjoy it too123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingIPL Orange Cap 2026VijayPM Modi LiveWorld Largest EconomySue BirdIce SpicePahalgam Pony Wallah StoryWomen Quota BillE Coli Smuggling CaseErika Kirk Event

‘MK Stalin wants to make his son CM’: Amit Shah slams DMK dynasty politics NEW DELHI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday intensified the BJP’s campaign in Tamil Nadu with a high-profile roadshow in the Modakurichi Assembly constituency, launching a blistering attack on the ruling DMK’s record on corruption and dynastic politics while expressing confidence in the NDA-AIADMK alliance’s prospects in the April 23 election.Campaigning for BJP candidate Kirthika Shivkumar, Shah vowed to clean up the state administration and alleged that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s primary objective was to secure power for the next generation of his family. Watch Women’s Reservation Amendment Fails In Lok Sabha, Delimitation Bill Put On Hold “Our government will end the DMK’s corruption,” Shah told supporters during the roadshow. “I want to appeal to ensure the victory of the NDA’s BJP candidate, Kirthika Shivkumar, with a landslide victory.”Nepotism and CorruptionA central theme of Shah’s address was the criticism of the DMK’s dynastic politics. He targeted Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, claiming his primary objective was to secure power for the next generation of his family. “MK Stalin wants to make his son (Udhayanidhi Stalin) the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu,” Shah alleged, noting the succession from M. Karunanidhi to M.K. Stalin, and now to Udhayanidhi. “This family nepotism will never do good for the people of Tamil Nadu,” he added.The Women’s Reservation TangleShah also used the platform to target the opposition on the issue of legislative representation for women. He accused both the Congress and the DMK of actively blocking progress and hindering Tamil Nadu’s growth in terms of parliamentary seats. “Congress and DMK stopped women from coming to Parliament, and they also declined the seat increment of Tamil Nadu,” he alleged.This came a day after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, campaigning in the state, alleged that Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah had “lied” to the nation about the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, claiming the “diabolical idea” hidden behind it was to change the electoral map and weaken southern states.NDA’s Show of UnityShah reaffirmed the strength of the partnership between the NDA and the AIADMK, projecting a victory for the alliance under the leadership of Edappadi K. Palaniswami . “We are confident of forming an NDA government here, together with the AIADMK, under the leadership of Edappadi Palaniswami,” Shah said.Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4. The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, which includes the Congress, DMDK and VCK, and the NDA led by AIADMK, with the BJP and PMK as allies.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 MediaVideosManipur Horror: Retired Soldier Among Two Shot Dead In Ukhrul Highway AttackWhat We Know About Indian Ships Hit In Hormuz Strait By Iran Gunboats And Unknown ProjectilePakistan Clears $2Bn UAE Debt As Saudi Extends $3Bn Deposit TermPakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Under US Scanner, Flagged As Risk For Trump Team’Our Relationship Very Strong’: Iran’s Abdul Majid On Hormuz Firing Incident On Indian VesselsCong, TMC, DMK Guilty’, PM Modi Blasts Oppn For Blocking Women Reservation BillIndia Summons Iran Envoy Summoned After Ships Targeted In Strait of Hormuz | WatchWomen’s Reservation Amendment Fails In Lok Sabha, Delimitation Bill Put On HoldYogi Adityanath Alleges ‘Identity Crisis’ In Bengal, Targets TMC Over GovernanceBJP Leaders Protest Outside Rahul’s Residence Over Women Quota Bill; Hema Malini, Bansuri Lead123PhotostoriesSamay Raina reveals financial struggles after India’s Got Latent controversy; says, ‘I lost everything, I feared going broke and in debt’Why Mumbai’s Churchgate–Virar, CSMT–Kalyan routes are being considered for underground shiftBaby names inspired by everyday qualities parents quietly admireWorm or snake? Woman finds a crawly inside a cabbage: FSSAI’s safety guidelines on how to clean veggies and fruits‘Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6’: From Raqesh Bapat-Vishal Kotian’s ugly clash to Rakhi Sawant’s fiery face-offs, moments that defined the seasonInside Anil Kumble’s crores worth Bangalore villa: A thoughtfully designed abode with lush gardens, sunlit interiors and family livingWhy whale vomit is worth millions for humans150-km road network, 46km of flyovers, underpasses: Delhi plans major push to ease traffic congestionSandra Bullock’s best movies to watch on OTT: ‘Speed’, ‘Bird Box’ and moreDhurandhar actor Ranveer Singh loves this spread innovated in the 1940s: Here are 6 ways you can enjoy it too123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingIPL Orange Cap 2026VijayPM Modi LiveWorld Largest EconomySue BirdIce SpicePahalgam Pony Wallah StoryWomen Quota BillE Coli Smuggling CaseErika Kirk Event

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NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Sunday unveiled the DMK’s Chennai-focused manifesto, setting out an ambitious roadmap to reshape the city’s infrastructure, mobility and economy ahead of the Assembly elections. Released at the Anna Arivalayam headquarters, the “Chennai Super-6” plan forms part of the party’s broader Dravidian Model 2.0 vision, with a clear focus on urban transformation.The manifesto outlines six key pillars aimed at improving quality of life in the capital, from upgraded public amenities and smarter transport to job creation and technology-led growth. The proposals were launched in the presence of district-level candidates, signalling the party’s intent to centre Chennai’s development as a major campaign plank.At the heart of the plan is a push to upgrade housing facilities in tenements managed by the Urban Habitat Development Board. The DMK has proposed involving women-led welfare associations in implementing these improvements, backed by state funding. Basic services are also set to be strengthened, with RO drinking water facilities promised for areas lacking metro water and time-bound supply assured for connected households.A significant economic push comes through a proposed Ts 10,000 crore investment in a global technology hub focusing on Artificial Intelligence, animation, visual effects and immersive technologies. The project is expected to generate around 20,000 high-value jobs and establish Chennai as a global talent gateway.The announcement comes amid sharp political attacks from AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami, who accused the DMK of failing women and criticised its stance on the Women’s Reservation Bill, underlining the intensifying electoral battle in the state.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosWhat We Know About Indian Ships Hit In Hormuz Strait By Iran Gunboats And Unknown ProjectilePakistan Clears Bn UAE Debt As Saudi Extends Bn Deposit TermPakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Under US Scanner, Flagged As Risk For Trump Team’Our Relationship Very Strong’: Iran’s Abdul Majid On Hormuz Firing Incident On Indian VesselsCong, TMC, DMK Guilty’, PM Modi Blasts Oppn For Blocking Women Reservation BillIndia Summons Iran Envoy Summoned After Ships Targeted In Strait of Hormuz | WatchWomen’s Reservation Amendment Fails In Lok Sabha, Delimitation Bill Put On HoldYogi Adityanath Alleges ‘Identity Crisis’ In Bengal, Targets TMC Over GovernanceBJP Leaders Protest Outside Rahul’s Residence Over Women Quota Bill; Hema Malini, Bansuri Lead10th Indian Vessel Crosses Strait Of Hormuz Since Conflict Began123PhotostoriesWhy Mumbai’s Churchgate–Virar, CSMT–Kalyan routes are being considered for underground shiftBaby names inspired by everyday qualities parents quietly admireWorm or snake? Woman finds a crawly inside a cabbage: FSSAI’s safety guidelines on how to clean veggies and fruits‘Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6’: From Raqesh Bapat-Vishal Kotian’s ugly clash to Rakhi Sawant’s fiery face-offs, moments that defined the season10 subtle habits that are destroying your marriageInside Anil Kumble’s crores worth Bangalore villa: A thoughtfully designed abode with lush gardens, sunlit interiors and family livingWhy whale vomit is worth millions for humans150-km road network, 46km of flyovers, underpasses: Delhi plans major push to ease traffic congestionSandra Bullock’s best movies to watch on OTT: ‘Speed’, ‘Bird Box’ and moreDhurandhar actor Ranveer Singh loves this spread innovated in the 1940s: Here are 6 ways you can enjoy it too123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingIPL Orange Cap 2026VijayPM Modi LiveWorld Largest EconomySue BirdIce SpicePahalgam Pony Wallah StoryWomen Quota BillE Coli Smuggling CaseErika Kirk Event

NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Sunday unveiled the DMK’s Chennai-focused manifesto, setting out an ambitious roadmap to reshape the city’s infrastructure, mobility and economy ahead of the Assembly elections. Released at the Anna Arivalayam headquarters, the “Chennai Super-6” plan forms part of the party’s broader Dravidian Model 2.0 vision, with a clear focus on urban transformation.The manifesto outlines six key pillars aimed at improving quality of life in the capital, from upgraded public amenities and smarter transport to job creation and technology-led growth. The proposals were launched in the presence of district-level candidates, signalling the party’s intent to centre Chennai’s development as a major campaign plank.At the heart of the plan is a push to upgrade housing facilities in tenements managed by the Urban Habitat Development Board. The DMK has proposed involving women-led welfare associations in implementing these improvements, backed by state funding. Basic services are also set to be strengthened, with RO drinking water facilities promised for areas lacking metro water and time-bound supply assured for connected households.A significant economic push comes through a proposed Ts 10,000 crore investment in a global technology hub focusing on Artificial Intelligence, animation, visual effects and immersive technologies. The project is expected to generate around 20,000 high-value jobs and establish Chennai as a global talent gateway.The announcement comes amid sharp political attacks from AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami, who accused the DMK of failing women and criticised its stance on the Women’s Reservation Bill, underlining the intensifying electoral battle in the state.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosWhat We Know About Indian Ships Hit In Hormuz Strait By Iran Gunboats And Unknown ProjectilePakistan Clears $2Bn UAE Debt As Saudi Extends $3Bn Deposit TermPakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Under US Scanner, Flagged As Risk For Trump Team’Our Relationship Very Strong’: Iran’s Abdul Majid On Hormuz Firing Incident On Indian VesselsCong, TMC, DMK Guilty’, PM Modi Blasts Oppn For Blocking Women Reservation BillIndia Summons Iran Envoy Summoned After Ships Targeted In Strait of Hormuz | WatchWomen’s Reservation Amendment Fails In Lok Sabha, Delimitation Bill Put On HoldYogi Adityanath Alleges ‘Identity Crisis’ In Bengal, Targets TMC Over GovernanceBJP Leaders Protest Outside Rahul’s Residence Over Women Quota Bill; Hema Malini, Bansuri Lead10th Indian Vessel Crosses Strait Of Hormuz Since Conflict Began123PhotostoriesWhy Mumbai’s Churchgate–Virar, CSMT–Kalyan routes are being considered for underground shiftBaby names inspired by everyday qualities parents quietly admireWorm or snake? Woman finds a crawly inside a cabbage: FSSAI’s safety guidelines on how to clean veggies and fruits‘Bigg Boss Marathi Season 6’: From Raqesh Bapat-Vishal Kotian’s ugly clash to Rakhi Sawant’s fiery face-offs, moments that defined the season10 subtle habits that are destroying your marriageInside Anil Kumble’s crores worth Bangalore villa: A thoughtfully designed abode with lush gardens, sunlit interiors and family livingWhy whale vomit is worth millions for humans150-km road network, 46km of flyovers, underpasses: Delhi plans major push to ease traffic congestionSandra Bullock’s best movies to watch on OTT: ‘Speed’, ‘Bird Box’ and moreDhurandhar actor Ranveer Singh loves this spread innovated in the 1940s: Here are 6 ways you can enjoy it too123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingIPL Orange Cap 2026VijayPM Modi LiveWorld Largest EconomySue BirdIce SpicePahalgam Pony Wallah StoryWomen Quota BillE Coli Smuggling CaseErika Kirk Event

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