April 2, 2026

Congress leader Dolly Sharma NEW DELHI: Congress leader Dolly Sharma on Thursday alleged “widespread corruption” in Puducherry, claiming that people are being forced to pay a “30% commission” to get work done. Sharma also questioned the delay in granting statehood to Puducherry, despite the BJP being both in power at the Centre and part of the AINRC-led coalition government in the poll-bound Union territory. “The manner in which a continuously corrupt government is operating in Puducherry is truly alarming. If you want to get any work done, you are required to pay a 30% commission. Five years have passed; the BJP holds power at the Centre and in the state, yet why has Puducherry not received statehood?” Sharma said.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Trump says Iran ‘afraid’ to admit it wants a deal, claims ‘they’ll be killed by their own people or us’Iran claims it shot down ‘F-18′ fighter jet over Chabahar; US fact-check tells a different story’Will ⁠attack ⁠infrastructure’: Iran on reports that ‘enemies’ preparing to occupy island with help from ‘regional’ country Raising concerns over unemployment, she claimed that youth in Puducherry are struggling to find jobs, while liquor remains easily accessible. She also accused the ruling coalition of failing to deliver on electoral promises.“The youth here are unable to find jobs, yet liquor is constantly available. People fully understand the difference between what was promised and what is actually being delivered. Of the hundred promises made in their manifesto, they failed to fulfil even 90,” she added. The Congress is contesting the April 9 Puducherry assembly election in alliance with its existing ally, the DMK. Under the arrangement, the Congress will contest 16 seats, while the DMK has been allotted the remaining 14. Puducherry, a former French colony, has 33-member legislative assembly, of which 30 members are directly elected; the remaining three MLAs are nominated by the Centre. The Congress-DMK alliance also exists in neighboring Tamil Nadu, where DMK supremo and Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin allotted 28 of 234 constituencies to the grand old party, along with a Rajya Sabha berth. Tamil Nadu will vote in a single phase on April 23. Counting of votes in both Puducherry and Tamil Nadu, along with three other poll-bound states – Assam, Kerala, and West Bengal – will take place on May 4.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAt Least 14 Dead, 20 Injured After Private Bus Collides With Lorry In Andhra PradeshIranian Air And Space Forces Thank Kashmir For Aid, Vow Revenge After Khamenei’s DeathIndia Not A ‘Broker’ Like Pak: Jaishankar Tells Leaders At All-Party Meet Amid Iran Mediation Buzz’No Locus Standi To Comment’: India Rejects Pakistan’s Remarks On Asiya Andrabi’s Life SentenceIran Dictates Endgame:Demands Closure Of US Bases In Gulf, Lifting Of Sanctions, Control Over HormuzCentre Pushes PNG: LPG Supply May Be Stopped Where Pipelines Are AvailableWomen’s Quota Bill: What Are The Big Challenges Modi Govt Is Likely To FaceIran Denies Permission To Pakistan-Bound Ship Trying To Cross Hormuz As Indian Ships Sail ThroughDelhi Deputy CM Parvesh Verma Calls Arvind Kejriwal Rehman Dakait In Assembly, Sparks Political RowAmid Hormuz Disruption, India Locks 60 Million Barrels Of Russian Oil To Secure Energy Supply123PhotostoriesHow to turn your everyday task into an exerciseFrom ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, ‘Emily in Paris’ to ‘The Pitt’: Top TV character departures of all time amid Rocky Carroll’s NCIS exitKumar Mangalam Birla’s Mumbai Home: Inside a ₹425 crore icon of luxury livingReality TV to real-life crimes: 5 controversial stars, from Jen Shah to Josh Duggar who were arrestedShows like ‘Hannah Montana’ that made every 90s kid’s childhood: ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’, ‘iCarly’ and more5 easiest countries for Indians to visit 2026 visa rules and costsSourav Ganguly’s ₹40 crore ancestral mansion in Kolkata is a 48-room family legacy, cricketing glory and classic Bengali charmUnder 200 calories filling desi Indian breakfast ideas10 house names inspired by Lord Ram and their meanings8 beautiful creepers to transform your balcony garden123Hot PicksKaroline LeavitTristan da Cunha8th Pay CommissionGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingStock market today8th Pay CommissionVanessa TrumpArnold Schwarzenegger’s sonUS Army EnlistmentZohran MamdaniNirav RanaWest Bengal ElectionLPG crisis reasonTransgender law

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Congress leader Dolly Sharma NEW DELHI: Congress leader Dolly Sharma on Thursday alleged “widespread corruption” in Puducherry, claiming that people are being forced to pay a “30% commission” to get work done. Sharma also questioned the delay in granting statehood to Puducherry, despite the BJP being both in power at the Centre and part of the AINRC-led coalition government in the poll-bound Union territory. “The manner in which a continuously corrupt government is operating in Puducherry is truly alarming. If you want to get any work done, you are required to pay a 30% commission. Five years have passed; the BJP holds power at the Centre and in the state, yet why has Puducherry not received statehood?” Sharma said.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Trump says Iran ‘afraid’ to admit it wants a deal, claims ‘they’ll be killed by their own people or us’Iran claims it shot down ‘F-18′ fighter jet over Chabahar; US fact-check tells a different story’Will ⁠attack ⁠infrastructure’: Iran on reports that ‘enemies’ preparing to occupy island with help from ‘regional’ country Raising concerns over unemployment, she claimed that youth in Puducherry are struggling to find jobs, while liquor remains easily accessible. She also accused the ruling coalition of failing to deliver on electoral promises.“The youth here are unable to find jobs, yet liquor is constantly available. People fully understand the difference between what was promised and what is actually being delivered. Of the hundred promises made in their manifesto, they failed to fulfil even 90,” she added. The Congress is contesting the April 9 Puducherry assembly election in alliance with its existing ally, the DMK. Under the arrangement, the Congress will contest 16 seats, while the DMK has been allotted the remaining 14. Puducherry, a former French colony, has 33-member legislative assembly, of which 30 members are directly elected; the remaining three MLAs are nominated by the Centre. The Congress-DMK alliance also exists in neighboring Tamil Nadu, where DMK supremo and Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin allotted 28 of 234 constituencies to the grand old party, along with a Rajya Sabha berth. Tamil Nadu will vote in a single phase on April 23. Counting of votes in both Puducherry and Tamil Nadu, along with three other poll-bound states – Assam, Kerala, and West Bengal – will take place on May 4.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAt Least 14 Dead, 20 Injured After Private Bus Collides With Lorry In Andhra PradeshIranian Air And Space Forces Thank Kashmir For Aid, Vow Revenge After Khamenei’s DeathIndia Not A ‘Broker’ Like Pak: Jaishankar Tells Leaders At All-Party Meet Amid Iran Mediation Buzz’No Locus Standi To Comment’: India Rejects Pakistan’s Remarks On Asiya Andrabi’s Life SentenceIran Dictates Endgame:Demands Closure Of US Bases In Gulf, Lifting Of Sanctions, Control Over HormuzCentre Pushes PNG: LPG Supply May Be Stopped Where Pipelines Are AvailableWomen’s Quota Bill: What Are The Big Challenges Modi Govt Is Likely To FaceIran Denies Permission To Pakistan-Bound Ship Trying To Cross Hormuz As Indian Ships Sail ThroughDelhi Deputy CM Parvesh Verma Calls Arvind Kejriwal Rehman Dakait In Assembly, Sparks Political RowAmid Hormuz Disruption, India Locks 60 Million Barrels Of Russian Oil To Secure Energy Supply123PhotostoriesHow to turn your everyday task into an exerciseFrom ‘Grey’s Anatomy’, ‘Emily in Paris’ to ‘The Pitt’: Top TV character departures of all time amid Rocky Carroll’s NCIS exitKumar Mangalam Birla’s Mumbai Home: Inside a ₹425 crore icon of luxury livingReality TV to real-life crimes: 5 controversial stars, from Jen Shah to Josh Duggar who were arrestedShows like ‘Hannah Montana’ that made every 90s kid’s childhood: ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’, ‘iCarly’ and more5 easiest countries for Indians to visit 2026 visa rules and costsSourav Ganguly’s ₹40 crore ancestral mansion in Kolkata is a 48-room family legacy, cricketing glory and classic Bengali charmUnder 200 calories filling desi Indian breakfast ideas10 house names inspired by Lord Ram and their meanings8 beautiful creepers to transform your balcony garden123Hot PicksKaroline LeavitTristan da Cunha8th Pay CommissionGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingStock market today8th Pay CommissionVanessa TrumpArnold Schwarzenegger’s sonUS Army EnlistmentZohran MamdaniNirav RanaWest Bengal ElectionLPG crisis reasonTransgender law


‘30% commission’: Congress alleges ‘widespread corruption’ in Puducherry, questions statehood delay
Congress leader Dolly Sharma

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Dolly Sharma on Thursday alleged “widespread corruption” in Puducherry, claiming that people are being forced to pay a “30% commission” to get work done. Sharma also questioned the delay in granting statehood to Puducherry, despite the BJP being both in power at the Centre and part of the AINRC-led coalition government in the poll-bound Union territory. “The manner in which a continuously corrupt government is operating in Puducherry is truly alarming. If you want to get any work done, you are required to pay a 30% commission. Five years have passed; the BJP holds power at the Centre and in the state, yet why has Puducherry not received statehood?” Sharma said. Raising concerns over unemployment, she claimed that youth in Puducherry are struggling to find jobs, while liquor remains easily accessible. She also accused the ruling coalition of failing to deliver on electoral promises.“The youth here are unable to find jobs, yet liquor is constantly available. People fully understand the difference between what was promised and what is actually being delivered. Of the hundred promises made in their manifesto, they failed to fulfil even 90,” she added. The Congress is contesting the April 9 Puducherry assembly election in alliance with its existing ally, the DMK. Under the arrangement, the Congress will contest 16 seats, while the DMK has been allotted the remaining 14. Puducherry, a former French colony, has 33-member legislative assembly, of which 30 members are directly elected; the remaining three MLAs are nominated by the Centre. The Congress-DMK alliance also exists in neighboring Tamil Nadu, where DMK supremo and Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin allotted 28 of 234 constituencies to the grand old party, along with a Rajya Sabha berth. Tamil Nadu will vote in a single phase on April 23. Counting of votes in both Puducherry and Tamil Nadu, along with three other poll-bound states – Assam, Kerala, and West Bengal – will take place on May 4.



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TMC’s Moloy Ghatak, BJP’s Subrata Thakur, Congress’ Mausam Noor and BJP’s Dibyendu Adhikari NEW DELHI: In West Bengal, a state that long prided itself on rejecting the politics of inheritance, the 2026 assembly elections are telling a very different story. For decades, Bengal mocked the dynastic culture seen in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, celebrating instead a political tradition shaped in college campuses, union rooms and street protests. But this election, that legacy appears to be shifting.Across party lines, from the Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party to the Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist), a striking number of candidates now come from established political families. It marks perhaps the sharpest rise of dynastic representation in Bengal in decades. Watch After SC Rap On Malda Hostage Row, Mamata Banerjee Claims BJP Wants President’s Rule In Bengal This shift stands in contrast to the state’s political past. From chief minister Mamata Banerjee to former CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, and from Congress figures Somen Mitra and Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi to Left veteran Biman Bose, Bengal’s iconic leaders rose through grassroots politics, not family legacy.That culture, however, is visibly changing.The Trinamool Congress has fielded the largest number of candidates with political lineage, but the trend cuts across ideologies. Even parties that once criticised “dynasty politics” are now leaning on familiar surnames.“This election shows that Bengal is slowly shedding its exceptionalism. Dynasty politics was once seen as something that happened elsewhere. Now every major party in Bengal is practising it, though none wants to admit it openly,” a Kolkata-based political analyst told news agency PTI.He added that Bengal’s political nursery, campuses, unions and street movements, is no longer producing leaders at the same scale. Instead, parties are increasingly turning to candidates whose family names already carry weight with voters. The shift is visible on the ground. In West Burdwan, the Trinamool Congress has fielded former minister Moloy Ghatak from Asansol Uttar, while his brother Abhijit Ghatak contests from neighbouring Kulti. In the south, sitting Behala Purba MLA Ratna Chattopadhyay has been moved to Behala Paschim, while her brother Subhashish Das has been nominated from Maheshtala, a seat once held by their father Dulal Das.The party has also retained one of Bengal’s more unusual political couples, Becharam Manna from Singur and his wife Karabi from Haripal. “With CM’s blessings and the people’s support, we will win again,” Becharam has claimed.A generational shift is equally visible. Four-time MP Kalyan Banerjee’s son Sirsanya Bandopadhyay is contesting from Uttarpara. In Entally, veteran MLA Swarna Kamal Saha has made way for his son Sandipan, while Panihati will see Tirthankar Ghosh, son of sitting MLA Nirmal Ghosh.In Manicktala, the party has fielded Shreya Pandey, daughter of late minister Sadhan Pandey and sitting MLA Supti Pandey. The list continues: Madhuparna Thakur from Bagda, Vasundhara Goswami from Purbasthali North, and Rituparna Addhya from Bongaon South — all carrying forward political legacies.Senior leaders within the party acknowledge the shift. “People may criticise dynasty politics, but elections are ultimately about winnability. If a candidate already has roots in the constituency through his or her family, the party sees that as an advantage,” a senior Trinamool Congress leader said.Another leader put it more bluntly: candidates now come with “a ready-made organisation, workers and recall value”. The BJP, despite its attacks on “pariwarvad”, is not far behind. In Purba Medinipur, Dibyendu Adhikari’s candidature from Egra adds another chapter to the growing influence of his family. In Bhatpara, Pawan Singh — son of former MP Arjun Singh — is in the fray, while Arjun himself contests from Noapara.The party’s Matua face, Subrata Thakur, is also part of a prominent political family, while his relative Soma, contesting from Bagda, is locked in a direct contest with her sister-in-law Madhuparna Thakur of the Trinamool Congress. In Baranagar, BJP candidate Sajal Ghosh carries forward the legacy of former Congress leader Pradip Ghosh.“Politics in Bengal has become far more personality-driven than before. In such a situation, families that already have a political base get more importance,” a senior BJP leader said.The Congress, struggling to stay relevant, is also relying on legacy names. Former MP Mausam Noor, niece of Congress icon ABA Ghani Khan Choudhury, is contesting from Malatipur after returning from the Trinamool Congress. Calling her return an “emotional homecoming,” Mausam said she wanted to “unite the family and strengthen Ghani Khan Choudhury’s legacy”.In Bagmundi, the party has fielded Nepal Mahato, son of former MP Debendra Mahato, while Rohan Mitra, son of Somen Mitra, is contesting from Ballygunge. In north Bengal, Ali Imran Ramz, or Victor, continues another political lineage from Goalpokhar.Even the Left has not remained untouched. The CPM has fielded Saptarshi Deb, son of former minister Gautam Deb, from Rajarhat-New Town, while youth leader Dipsita Dhar, granddaughter of former MLA Padma Nidhi Dhar, is contesting from Dum Dum North. Political analyst Suman Bhattacharya links this shift to a deeper structural change. “There was a time when a district leader or student activist could dream of becoming an MLA. That ladder has weakened. In its place, parties are increasingly choosing dynasts,” he told PTI.“When campus politics declines, dynastic politics rise. Bengal’s universities are no longer supplying a new generation of political workers, creating a vacuum that influential families are filling,” he said.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 MediaVideos’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid WarChandigarh Blast Video Surfaces As Khalistan Threat Emerges, Security Agencies Launch Massive ProbeIndia Prepares For Oil Shock With 7 Big Steps As Trump Asks Others To Dare Hormuz To Get SuppliesPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. 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TMC’s Moloy Ghatak, BJP’s Subrata Thakur, Congress’ Mausam Noor and BJP’s Dibyendu Adhikari NEW DELHI: In West Bengal, a state that long prided itself on rejecting the politics of inheritance, the 2026 assembly elections are telling a very different story. For decades, Bengal mocked the dynastic culture seen in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, celebrating instead a political tradition shaped in college campuses, union rooms and street protests. But this election, that legacy appears to be shifting.Across party lines, from the Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party to the Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist), a striking number of candidates now come from established political families. It marks perhaps the sharpest rise of dynastic representation in Bengal in decades. Watch After SC Rap On Malda Hostage Row, Mamata Banerjee Claims BJP Wants President’s Rule In Bengal This shift stands in contrast to the state’s political past. From chief minister Mamata Banerjee to former CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, and from Congress figures Somen Mitra and Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi to Left veteran Biman Bose, Bengal’s iconic leaders rose through grassroots politics, not family legacy.That culture, however, is visibly changing.The Trinamool Congress has fielded the largest number of candidates with political lineage, but the trend cuts across ideologies. Even parties that once criticised “dynasty politics” are now leaning on familiar surnames.“This election shows that Bengal is slowly shedding its exceptionalism. Dynasty politics was once seen as something that happened elsewhere. Now every major party in Bengal is practising it, though none wants to admit it openly,” a Kolkata-based political analyst told news agency PTI.He added that Bengal’s political nursery, campuses, unions and street movements, is no longer producing leaders at the same scale. Instead, parties are increasingly turning to candidates whose family names already carry weight with voters. The shift is visible on the ground. In West Burdwan, the Trinamool Congress has fielded former minister Moloy Ghatak from Asansol Uttar, while his brother Abhijit Ghatak contests from neighbouring Kulti. In the south, sitting Behala Purba MLA Ratna Chattopadhyay has been moved to Behala Paschim, while her brother Subhashish Das has been nominated from Maheshtala, a seat once held by their father Dulal Das.The party has also retained one of Bengal’s more unusual political couples, Becharam Manna from Singur and his wife Karabi from Haripal. “With CM’s blessings and the people’s support, we will win again,” Becharam has claimed.A generational shift is equally visible. Four-time MP Kalyan Banerjee’s son Sirsanya Bandopadhyay is contesting from Uttarpara. In Entally, veteran MLA Swarna Kamal Saha has made way for his son Sandipan, while Panihati will see Tirthankar Ghosh, son of sitting MLA Nirmal Ghosh.In Manicktala, the party has fielded Shreya Pandey, daughter of late minister Sadhan Pandey and sitting MLA Supti Pandey. The list continues: Madhuparna Thakur from Bagda, Vasundhara Goswami from Purbasthali North, and Rituparna Addhya from Bongaon South — all carrying forward political legacies.Senior leaders within the party acknowledge the shift. “People may criticise dynasty politics, but elections are ultimately about winnability. If a candidate already has roots in the constituency through his or her family, the party sees that as an advantage,” a senior Trinamool Congress leader said.Another leader put it more bluntly: candidates now come with “a ready-made organisation, workers and recall value”. The BJP, despite its attacks on “pariwarvad”, is not far behind. In Purba Medinipur, Dibyendu Adhikari’s candidature from Egra adds another chapter to the growing influence of his family. In Bhatpara, Pawan Singh — son of former MP Arjun Singh — is in the fray, while Arjun himself contests from Noapara.The party’s Matua face, Subrata Thakur, is also part of a prominent political family, while his relative Soma, contesting from Bagda, is locked in a direct contest with her sister-in-law Madhuparna Thakur of the Trinamool Congress. In Baranagar, BJP candidate Sajal Ghosh carries forward the legacy of former Congress leader Pradip Ghosh.“Politics in Bengal has become far more personality-driven than before. In such a situation, families that already have a political base get more importance,” a senior BJP leader said.The Congress, struggling to stay relevant, is also relying on legacy names. Former MP Mausam Noor, niece of Congress icon ABA Ghani Khan Choudhury, is contesting from Malatipur after returning from the Trinamool Congress. Calling her return an “emotional homecoming,” Mausam said she wanted to “unite the family and strengthen Ghani Khan Choudhury’s legacy”.In Bagmundi, the party has fielded Nepal Mahato, son of former MP Debendra Mahato, while Rohan Mitra, son of Somen Mitra, is contesting from Ballygunge. In north Bengal, Ali Imran Ramz, or Victor, continues another political lineage from Goalpokhar.Even the Left has not remained untouched. The CPM has fielded Saptarshi Deb, son of former minister Gautam Deb, from Rajarhat-New Town, while youth leader Dipsita Dhar, granddaughter of former MLA Padma Nidhi Dhar, is contesting from Dum Dum North. Political analyst Suman Bhattacharya links this shift to a deeper structural change. “There was a time when a district leader or student activist could dream of becoming an MLA. That ladder has weakened. In its place, parties are increasingly choosing dynasts,” he told PTI.“When campus politics declines, dynastic politics rise. Bengal’s universities are no longer supplying a new generation of political workers, creating a vacuum that influential families are filling,” he said.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 MediaVideos’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid WarChandigarh Blast Video Surfaces As Khalistan Threat Emerges, Security Agencies Launch Massive ProbeIndia Prepares For Oil Shock With 7 Big Steps As Trump Asks Others To Dare Hormuz To Get SuppliesPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. 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AAP ex-MLA Phoolka, lawyer for ’84 riot victims, joins BJP NEW DELHI: Senior advocate H S Phoolka, a former Aam Aadmi Party MLA best known for his decades-long doughty legal fight for 1984 anti-Sikh riot victims, joined BJP on Wednesday in a boost to the party’s outreach to Sikhs ahead of assembly elections in Punjab early next year.The leader of opposition in the Punjab assembly during its previous term when AAP had emerged as the second largest party after Congress, Phoolka was scathing in his denunciation of its current govt for alleged crime and extortion, drug menace and rampant corruption. He said only BJP can “save” the border state. Though Phoolka is not a conventional politician and has largely concentrated on his legal practice, he enjoys considerable goodwill among Sikhs, providing BJP a bridge to connect with them in Punjab.He recalled the killings of Sikhs in 1984 and was all praises for the help of the BJP brass, especially Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Madan Lal Khurana. It was a genocide, he said, calling it targeting of Sikhs by Congress and not Hindus, stressing the help rendered by several Hindus. He said he had long provided legal help to BJP in riot cases and has now decided to join it.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid WarChandigarh Blast Video Surfaces As Khalistan Threat Emerges, Security Agencies Launch Massive ProbeIndia Prepares For Oil Shock With 7 Big Steps As Trump Asks Others To Dare Hormuz To Get SuppliesPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. Pramod Gets Yudh Seva Medal For Leading Navy Ops In Operation SindoorPM Modi Warns Against Rumours, Stresses Timely Info During West Asia War CrisisFrom Stealth Warships To Silent Submarines: These Naval Deployments Paralyzed Pak In Op Sindoor123Photostories5 common empty stomach habits that worsen insulin resistance: Doctors explain what to avoid and how to keep blood sugar stableMetro above, chaos below: Why Bengaluru’s Bannerghatta Road is turning into a headache for commutersRishabh Pant’s luxurious Delhi home is defined by modern aesthetics, fitness-focused spaces and luxury cars worth crores!From a net worth of approximately Rs 30 crore to a luxurious mansion: Jannat Zubair’s lavish lifestyleBest Telugu comedy movies streaming now: From ‘Nuvvu Naaku Nachchav’ to ‘MAD’Not getting enough protein? Doctors warn of impact on body and brain, and suggest 6 ways to boost absorption5 things Deepika Padukone does to stay fit and fabulous at 40Vidya Balan’s stylish breezy kurta set look makes her look 10 years younger8 hydrating and interesting dishes you can make with watermelon6 stunning limited-edition cars ever created123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingKolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Match ScorecardNASA Artemis IISulfur Cube in MinecraftPhineas and Ferb Skin FortniteMohammed ShamiPunjab BJP blastIran ceasefireArjun TendulkarSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

AAP ex-MLA Phoolka, lawyer for ’84 riot victims, joins BJP NEW DELHI: Senior advocate H S Phoolka, a former Aam Aadmi Party MLA best known for his decades-long doughty legal fight for 1984 anti-Sikh riot victims, joined BJP on Wednesday in a boost to the party’s outreach to Sikhs ahead of assembly elections in Punjab early next year.The leader of opposition in the Punjab assembly during its previous term when AAP had emerged as the second largest party after Congress, Phoolka was scathing in his denunciation of its current govt for alleged crime and extortion, drug menace and rampant corruption. He said only BJP can “save” the border state. Though Phoolka is not a conventional politician and has largely concentrated on his legal practice, he enjoys considerable goodwill among Sikhs, providing BJP a bridge to connect with them in Punjab.He recalled the killings of Sikhs in 1984 and was all praises for the help of the BJP brass, especially Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Madan Lal Khurana. It was a genocide, he said, calling it targeting of Sikhs by Congress and not Hindus, stressing the help rendered by several Hindus. He said he had long provided legal help to BJP in riot cases and has now decided to join it.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid WarChandigarh Blast Video Surfaces As Khalistan Threat Emerges, Security Agencies Launch Massive ProbeIndia Prepares For Oil Shock With 7 Big Steps As Trump Asks Others To Dare Hormuz To Get SuppliesPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. Pramod Gets Yudh Seva Medal For Leading Navy Ops In Operation SindoorPM Modi Warns Against Rumours, Stresses Timely Info During West Asia War CrisisFrom Stealth Warships To Silent Submarines: These Naval Deployments Paralyzed Pak In Op Sindoor123Photostories5 common empty stomach habits that worsen insulin resistance: Doctors explain what to avoid and how to keep blood sugar stableMetro above, chaos below: Why Bengaluru’s Bannerghatta Road is turning into a headache for commutersRishabh Pant’s luxurious Delhi home is defined by modern aesthetics, fitness-focused spaces and luxury cars worth crores!From a net worth of approximately Rs 30 crore to a luxurious mansion: Jannat Zubair’s lavish lifestyleBest Telugu comedy movies streaming now: From ‘Nuvvu Naaku Nachchav’ to ‘MAD’Not getting enough protein? Doctors warn of impact on body and brain, and suggest 6 ways to boost absorption5 things Deepika Padukone does to stay fit and fabulous at 40Vidya Balan’s stylish breezy kurta set look makes her look 10 years younger8 hydrating and interesting dishes you can make with watermelon6 stunning limited-edition cars ever created123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingKolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Match ScorecardNASA Artemis IISulfur Cube in MinecraftPhineas and Ferb Skin FortniteMohammed ShamiPunjab BJP blastIran ceasefireArjun TendulkarSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

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Congress’ V Vaithilingam; BJP’s A Johnkumar; DMK’s Vignesh Kannan NEW DELHI: The upcoming Puducherry assembly elections will see several candidates with strong political family backgrounds contesting across various constituencies. Puducherry assembly polls 2026 A total of 291 candidates are in the fray for the April 9 elections. Polling is held to elect 30 members of the 33-seat Puducherry legislative assembly, while the remaining three members are nominated by the central government. Puducherry assembly polls 2021 Prominent dynasty candidatesA Johnkumar: BJP leader A Johnkumar, a minister in the outgoing N Rangasamy-led government and the sitting MLA from Kamaraj Nagar, is contesting from Nellithope. He had earlier won the same seat as a Congress candidate in the 2016 elections. The constituency has remained under the family’s influence, with his son Richards Johnkumar winning it in 2021 on a BJP ticket. Dynasty candidates V Vaithilingam: A high-profile contest is set to take place in Thattanchavady, where former chief minister V Vaithilingam is contesting against the outgoing chief minister N Rangasamy. Vaithilingam, the son of Puducherry’s second chief minister V Venkatasubba Reddiar, is currently the Puducherry Congress president and the sitting Lok Sabha MP from the Union territory’s only Lok Sabha seat, also called Puducherry. The outcome of this contest is expected to have a bearing on the chief ministerial race. Watch Puducherry Elections 2026: TVK To Contest Solo, BJP and AINRC Alliance Finalises Seat-Sharing Vignesh Kannan: In the Raj Bhavan constituency, DMK candidate Vignesh Kannan is making his electoral debut. The son of former Puducherry minister P Kannan, he will take on Puducherry BJP chief VP Ramalingam in what is shaping up to be a closely watched contest.The alliancesThe elections will be a direct clash between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition Congress-DMK alliance. The NDA in Puducherry is led by chief minister N Rangasamy’s All India NR Congress, which will contest 16 seats. The BJP has been given the remaining 14 constituencies, of which it has given two each to the AIADMK and businessman Jose Charles Martin’s newly formed Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi (LJK). Criminal cases The Congress and DMK will also contest under a similar arrangement of 16 and 14 seats, respectively.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 MediaVideos’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid WarChandigarh Blast Video Surfaces As Khalistan Threat Emerges, Security Agencies Launch Massive ProbeIndia Prepares For Oil Shock With 7 Big Steps As Trump Asks Others To Dare Hormuz To Get SuppliesPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. Pramod Gets Yudh Seva Medal For Leading Navy Ops In Operation SindoorPM Modi Warns Against Rumours, Stresses Timely Info During West Asia War CrisisFrom Stealth Warships To Silent Submarines: These Naval Deployments Paralyzed Pak In Op SindoorAmid Hormuz Crisis, India May Get First Delivery Of Iranian Crude Oil After 7 Years123PhotostoriesRishabh Pant’s luxurious Delhi home is defined by modern aesthetics, fitness-focused spaces and luxury cars worth crores!From a net worth of approximately Rs 30 crore to a luxurious mansion: Jannat Zubair’s lavish lifestyleBest Telugu comedy movies streaming now: From ‘Nuvvu Naaku Nachchav’ to ‘MAD’Not getting enough protein? Doctors warn of impact on body and brain, and suggest 6 ways to boost absorption5 things Deepika Padukone does to stay fit and fabulous at 40Vidya Balan’s stylish breezy kurta set look makes her look 10 years younger8 hydrating and interesting dishes you can make with watermelon6 stunning limited-edition cars ever created’Kpop Demon Hunters’ stars Arden Cho, May Hong and more share the fan moments that stayed with them the longestHow Nasa’s Artemis II took shape: From origins to orbiting the Moon123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingKolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Match ScorecardNASA Artemis IISulfur Cube in MinecraftPhineas and Ferb Skin FortniteMohammed ShamiPunjab BJP blastIran ceasefireArjun TendulkarSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Congress’ V Vaithilingam; BJP’s A Johnkumar; DMK’s Vignesh Kannan NEW DELHI: The upcoming Puducherry assembly elections will see several candidates with strong political family backgrounds contesting across various constituencies. Puducherry assembly polls 2026 A total of 291 candidates are in the fray for the April 9 elections. Polling is held to elect 30 members of the 33-seat Puducherry legislative assembly, while the remaining three members are nominated by the central government. Puducherry assembly polls 2021 Prominent dynasty candidatesA Johnkumar: BJP leader A Johnkumar, a minister in the outgoing N Rangasamy-led government and the sitting MLA from Kamaraj Nagar, is contesting from Nellithope. He had earlier won the same seat as a Congress candidate in the 2016 elections. The constituency has remained under the family’s influence, with his son Richards Johnkumar winning it in 2021 on a BJP ticket. Dynasty candidates V Vaithilingam: A high-profile contest is set to take place in Thattanchavady, where former chief minister V Vaithilingam is contesting against the outgoing chief minister N Rangasamy. Vaithilingam, the son of Puducherry’s second chief minister V Venkatasubba Reddiar, is currently the Puducherry Congress president and the sitting Lok Sabha MP from the Union territory’s only Lok Sabha seat, also called Puducherry. The outcome of this contest is expected to have a bearing on the chief ministerial race. Watch Puducherry Elections 2026: TVK To Contest Solo, BJP and AINRC Alliance Finalises Seat-Sharing Vignesh Kannan: In the Raj Bhavan constituency, DMK candidate Vignesh Kannan is making his electoral debut. The son of former Puducherry minister P Kannan, he will take on Puducherry BJP chief VP Ramalingam in what is shaping up to be a closely watched contest.The alliancesThe elections will be a direct clash between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition Congress-DMK alliance. The NDA in Puducherry is led by chief minister N Rangasamy’s All India NR Congress, which will contest 16 seats. The BJP has been given the remaining 14 constituencies, of which it has given two each to the AIADMK and businessman Jose Charles Martin’s newly formed Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi (LJK). Criminal cases The Congress and DMK will also contest under a similar arrangement of 16 and 14 seats, respectively.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 MediaVideos’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid WarChandigarh Blast Video Surfaces As Khalistan Threat Emerges, Security Agencies Launch Massive ProbeIndia Prepares For Oil Shock With 7 Big Steps As Trump Asks Others To Dare Hormuz To Get SuppliesPM Modi Puts Deesa Airbase In Strategic Focus, India’s Big Defence Push Near Pakistan Border’India Was On Verge Of Striking Before Pakistan Requested Halt During Op Sindoor’: Indian Navy ChiefVice Admiral A.N. Pramod Gets Yudh Seva Medal For Leading Navy Ops In Operation SindoorPM Modi Warns Against Rumours, Stresses Timely Info During West Asia War CrisisFrom Stealth Warships To Silent Submarines: These Naval Deployments Paralyzed Pak In Op SindoorAmid Hormuz Crisis, India May Get First Delivery Of Iranian Crude Oil After 7 Years123PhotostoriesRishabh Pant’s luxurious Delhi home is defined by modern aesthetics, fitness-focused spaces and luxury cars worth crores!From a net worth of approximately Rs 30 crore to a luxurious mansion: Jannat Zubair’s lavish lifestyleBest Telugu comedy movies streaming now: From ‘Nuvvu Naaku Nachchav’ to ‘MAD’Not getting enough protein? Doctors warn of impact on body and brain, and suggest 6 ways to boost absorption5 things Deepika Padukone does to stay fit and fabulous at 40Vidya Balan’s stylish breezy kurta set look makes her look 10 years younger8 hydrating and interesting dishes you can make with watermelon6 stunning limited-edition cars ever created’Kpop Demon Hunters’ stars Arden Cho, May Hong and more share the fan moments that stayed with them the longestHow Nasa’s Artemis II took shape: From origins to orbiting the Moon123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingKolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad Match ScorecardNASA Artemis IISulfur Cube in MinecraftPhineas and Ferb Skin FortniteMohammed ShamiPunjab BJP blastIran ceasefireArjun TendulkarSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

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