June 10, 2026

NEW DELHI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said Justice Surya Kant’s elevation as the Chief Justice of India (CJI) comes at a “critical juncture for our justice system”, and expressed confidence that “under his leadership, constitutional values, institutional strength and public trust in the rule of law will be further reinforced, advancing the promise of justice for every citizen”.Congress MP hailing from Haryana, Randeep Surjewala, called the new CJI’s elevation a proud moment for “every Haryanvi”, while MP Kumari Selja described him as the “son of Hisar, Haryana”. Surjewala said that Justice Surya Kant’s rise to the top judicial post is not merely a personal milestone, “but a tribute to his humility, perseverance, and dedication”. He underlined that CJI Surya Kant comes from a small village in Hisar, and his rise reflects the power of belief and hard work. “May his tenure shine as a model of fairness and justice for all,” the lawmaker said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSpectacular Tribute: 350th Martyrdom Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur Marked with Light-&-Sound ShowSecond Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Tribute Marked with Devotion in Punjab“Indian market offers smooth trade opportunities,” says ASSOCHAM Secretary‘Why? Why? Why?’ Mamata Slams EC, Flags ‘Unusual & Alarming’ Moves Ahead of Bengal Polls’Doesn’t Deserve LoP Post’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For Missing CJI Surya Kant’s Oath CeremonyAs Pakistan Halts Afghan Transit, Kabul Boosts India Partnership And Fast-Tracks The Chabahar RouteIndia’s Soft Power Rises As Jaishankar Expands Global Gita Mahotsav, Kurukshetra Festival OutreachPunjab: Anandpur Sahib Hosts 3-Day Tribute on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Year’They Said Arunachal Is China’: Indian Woman Alleges Harassment After Passport Rejection In ShanghaiRajnath Says India Followed Krishna’s Message In Operation Sindoor After Pakistan Misread Decency123PhotostoriesBollywood dramas where a vanished kid storms back as an adult and blows open buried family secretsExpert-approved 4 foods you should never eat on an empty stomachHow to make Paneer stuffed Beetroot Paratha for breakfastHow 1 cup of this drink before bed can help burn belly fat in 30 days and how one can make it at homeDharmendra’s demise: From Krushna Abhishek, Karan Kundrra to Ankita Lokhande; TV celebs pay an emotional tribute to the legendary actorStruggling with fatty liver? 5 Ayurveda-approved food habits to improve liver healthSpeculation to confirmation: Sonam Kapoor’s second pregnancy becomes a masterclass in maternity fashionDisha Patani to Ananya Panday: The most talked-about fashion moments of the dayPlanning 2026 travels? 10 trending destinations in pictures to inspire youThanksgiving side dishes: 5 easy recipes to try this year123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeChennai rainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingLeBron James WifeJoe BurrowShedeur SandersNHL Trade RumorsKirill MarchenkoJa MorantBrad MarchandTyson FuryDrake LondonDenver Nuggets vs Memphis Grizzlies

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins
NEW DELHI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said Justice Surya Kant’s elevation as the Chief Justice of India (CJI) comes at a “critical juncture for our justice system”, and expressed confidence that “under his leadership, constitutional values, institutional strength and public trust in the rule of law will be further reinforced, advancing the promise of justice for every citizen”.Congress MP hailing from Haryana, Randeep Surjewala, called the new CJI’s elevation a proud moment for “every Haryanvi”, while MP Kumari Selja described him as the “son of Hisar, Haryana”. Surjewala said that Justice Surya Kant’s rise to the top judicial post is not merely a personal milestone, “but a tribute to his humility, perseverance, and dedication”. He underlined that CJI Surya Kant comes from a small village in Hisar, and his rise reflects the power of belief and hard work. “May his tenure shine as a model of fairness and justice for all,” the lawmaker said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSpectacular Tribute: 350th Martyrdom Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur Marked with Light-&-Sound ShowSecond Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Tribute Marked with Devotion in Punjab“Indian market offers smooth trade opportunities,” says ASSOCHAM Secretary‘Why? Why? Why?’ Mamata Slams EC, Flags ‘Unusual & Alarming’ Moves Ahead of Bengal Polls’Doesn’t Deserve LoP Post’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For Missing CJI Surya Kant’s Oath CeremonyAs Pakistan Halts Afghan Transit, Kabul Boosts India Partnership And Fast-Tracks The Chabahar RouteIndia’s Soft Power Rises As Jaishankar Expands Global Gita Mahotsav, Kurukshetra Festival OutreachPunjab: Anandpur Sahib Hosts 3-Day Tribute on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Year’They Said Arunachal Is China’: Indian Woman Alleges Harassment After Passport Rejection In ShanghaiRajnath Says India Followed Krishna’s Message In Operation Sindoor After Pakistan Misread Decency123PhotostoriesBollywood dramas where a vanished kid storms back as an adult and blows open buried family secretsExpert-approved 4 foods you should never eat on an empty stomachHow to make Paneer stuffed Beetroot Paratha for breakfastHow 1 cup of this drink before bed can help burn belly fat in 30 days and how one can make it at homeDharmendra’s demise: From Krushna Abhishek, Karan Kundrra to Ankita Lokhande; TV celebs pay an emotional tribute to the legendary actorStruggling with fatty liver? 5 Ayurveda-approved food habits to improve liver healthSpeculation to confirmation: Sonam Kapoor’s second pregnancy becomes a masterclass in maternity fashionDisha Patani to Ananya Panday: The most talked-about fashion moments of the dayPlanning 2026 travels? 10 trending destinations in pictures to inspire youThanksgiving side dishes: 5 easy recipes to try this year123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeChennai rainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingLeBron James WifeJoe BurrowShedeur SandersNHL Trade RumorsKirill MarchenkoJa MorantBrad MarchandTyson FuryDrake LondonDenver Nuggets vs Memphis Grizzlies


Congress hails elevation of Justice Kant

NEW DELHI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said Justice Surya Kant’s elevation as the Chief Justice of India (CJI) comes at a “critical juncture for our justice system”, and expressed confidence that “under his leadership, constitutional values, institutional strength and public trust in the rule of law will be further reinforced, advancing the promise of justice for every citizen”.Congress MP hailing from Haryana, Randeep Surjewala, called the new CJI’s elevation a proud moment for “every Haryanvi”, while MP Kumari Selja described him as the “son of Hisar, Haryana”. Surjewala said that Justice Surya Kant’s rise to the top judicial post is not merely a personal milestone, “but a tribute to his humility, perseverance, and dedication”. He underlined that CJI Surya Kant comes from a small village in Hisar, and his rise reflects the power of belief and hard work. “May his tenure shine as a model of fairness and justice for all,” the lawmaker said.





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Trinamool Congress, born from the grassroots in 1998, is seeing the ground slip from beneath its feet, with rebels asserting themselves in the assembly and Parliament.In 2011, Mamata Banerjee’s party ended 34 years of Left rule in West Bengal, making her the state’s first woman chief minister and ushering in a 15-year stint in power. But when the TMC suffered its first electoral defeat at the hands of the BJP in 2026, the bigger challenge emerged after the results.Within weeks, a wave of revolt swept through the party at the local, state and national levels. Roughly three-quarters of the TMC’s legislators rebelled against both Mamata Banerjee and her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, widely seen as her political heir. The dissidents seized control of the party’s legislative wing, installed their own leader of the opposition and openly challenged the leadership’s authority.The unrest soon spread to Parliament. TMC MPs in Rajya Sabha, Sushmita Dev and Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, resigned from both the Upper House and the party, while rebel Lok Sabha MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar claimed that nearly 20 TMC MPs were prepared to support the BJP-led NDA. The developments have triggered speculation about whether the TMC is headed for a formal split — and, more importantly, who stands to benefit if it does.The answer could have implications far beyond Bengal. A fractured TMC could strengthen the BJP both in Parliament and in the state, potentially follow a pattern seen in Maharashtra, Bihar and Odisha, or create an opening for the Congress and the Left to reclaim political space after years of decline.How BJP benefitsIf the Trinamool Congress (TMC) splits, the BJP stands to gain both numerically and politically. The immediate advantage lies in Parliament, where rebel MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar has claimed that around 20 of the party’s 28 Lok Sabha MPs are prepared to support the BJP-led NDA. Even if the dissidents do not formally join the BJP, their support would weaken one of the BJP’s principal opponents while strengthening the ruling coalition.The rebellion has revived speculation that the NDA may improve its chances of securing the numbers required for key constitutional amendments. Earlier this year, the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty First Amendment) Bill, 2026, popularly known as the Delimitation Bill, failed to pass after the government fell short of the two-thirds majority required in Parliament. The Women’s Reservation Constitution Amendment Bill, which had been linked to the delimitation exercise, also stalled for the same reason. Support from a sizeable bloc of TMC dissidents could potentially strengthen the NDA’s position on such legislation, even if it does not immediately alter the formal composition of the ruling alliance.The bigger gains, however, could come in West Bengal. Despite the BJP’s emphatic victory in the 2026 assembly elections, the gap in vote share between the two parties was relatively narrow. While the BJP won 207 seats against the TMC’s 80, it secured 46.24 per cent of the vote compared to the TMC’s 41.16 per cent. The numbers suggest that the TMC still retains a substantial support base, but a split could fragment that vote further, making it easier for the BJP to consolidate its dominance in the state.A divided TMC would also give the BJP an opportunity to attract disgruntled leaders, legislators and local organisers. Political observers point out that the BJP has often benefited when regional parties weaken through internal divisions, as seen in states such as Maharashtra and Bihar. In Bengal, where the BJP has emerged as the principal pole of politics, defections from the TMC could further strengthen its organisational reach.The BJP may also benefit because there is little evidence that a weakened TMC would automatically help the Congress or the Left. In recent years, much of the anti-TMC vote has shifted towards the BJP rather than other opposition parties.Political commentator and former Congress spokesperson Sanjay Jha argues that this trend is partly rooted in the TMC’s own political strategy over the past decade. According to him, the party steadily absorbed much of the Congress’s organisational and electoral base in Bengal, leaving little space for a viable third force. As the Congress and the Left weakened, anti-incumbency sentiment against the TMC increasingly found expression through the BJP.”A bipolar contest always helps the BJP significantly because it plays a more polarised game,” Jha says. If the TMC fragments further, he argues, the BJP could once again emerge as the principal beneficiary rather than the Congress or the Left.Maharashtra, Bihar, Odisha: Is Bengal following a familiar script?The turmoil within the TMC is drawing comparisons with political developments in several states where dominant regional parties either fractured internally or gradually lost ground to the BJP. The closest parallel is Maharashtra, where rebellions within the Shiv Sena and later the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) began among legislators before spreading to Parliament and eventually resulting in rival factions claiming legitimacy. In both cases, the splits weakened opposition parties and strengthened the BJP’s position.The developments in Bengal appear to be following a similar trajectory. The revolt began with dissident MLAs challenging the party leadership and has now reached Parliament, with rebel MPs claiming the support of a significant section of the TMC’s Lok Sabha contingent. Veteran Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Sekhar Ray has already suggested that the unrest within the party’s parliamentary ranks could deepen further.Beyond Maharashtra, Bengal’s political churn also resembles a broader national trend. In Odisha, the BJP gradually displaced the Biju Janata Dal after more than two decades in power. In Bihar, regional formations such as the JD(U) and RJD have steadily ceded political space as the BJP expanded its footprint. Across states, parties once seen as dominant regional forces have found it increasingly difficult to withstand the BJP’s organisational and electoral growth.The TMC’s troubles come at a time when several regional parties have either lost power, fragmented or seen their influence diminish. Whether Bengal ultimately follows the Maharashtra model of a formal split or the Odisha model of a dominant regional force being replaced remains unclear. But the experience of other states suggests that internal divisions often accelerate a process already underway — the weakening of regional parties and the consolidation of the BJP as the principal pole of politics.Can the INDIA bloc afford a weakened TMC?The TMC’s crisis has implications beyond West Bengal. As one of the INDIA bloc’s largest constituents and among the BJP’s strongest opponents in Parliament, a weakened or divided TMC would reduce the opposition alliance’s collective strength at a time when it is already facing internal strains.Mamata Banerjee’s presence at the INDIA bloc meeting in Delhi was therefore significant. Coming amid rebellion within her party, it underscored her need for a broader opposition platform even as the alliance seeks to retain unity after recent electoral setbacks. With the DMK also distancing itself from the bloc, the weakening of another major regional player could further complicate the opposition’s efforts to present a united challenge to the BJP.Some opposition voices argue that the TMC’s troubles make greater coordination within the INDIA bloc even more important. Sanjay Jha contends that neither the Congress nor the TMC is currently strong enough in Bengal to effectively challenge the BJP on its own. A divided opposition, he argues, would only make it easier for the BJP to consolidate its gains in the state.”They are planning this game to make sure that the TMC is not in a good position in the Lok Sabha of 2029, which is only two and a half years away or three years away. So, what should happen ideally in West Bengal is that the TMC and the Congress will have to come together. TMC and Congress have no alternative but to come together,” he said.For the INDIA bloc, the question is not just whether the TMC survives intact, but whether the opposition can remain cohesive if one of its key pillars is weakened from within.Opportunity for Left, Congress or just a mirage?A split in the TMC could, at least in theory, create political space for the Congress and the Left. Both parties have struggled to remain relevant in West Bengal since the rise of Mamata Banerjee, and a weakening of the TMC could allow them to position themselves as an alternative for voters uncomfortable with both the BJP and the ruling party. The Congress, in particular, could seek to attract minority voters and sections of the anti-BJP electorate if the TMC appears divided or unable to effectively challenge the saffron party.Yet others caution that the Congress may not be in a position to capitalise on such an opening. Sanjay Jha argues that the party’s organisational structure in Bengal has weakened significantly after decades out of power and cannot be rebuilt overnight. Having been out of power in the state for decades, the Congress would struggle to rapidly fill any vacuum created by a TMC split.”The Congress has no organisational muscle in West Bengal. I don’t think the Congress is suddenly going to find an opportunity and, even if there is one, I don’t think it is capable of leveraging it,” he said.Even, electoral trends suggest that such gains are far from guaranteed. Data from the past 4 assembly elections shows a dramatic collapse of the Left-Congress space. The CPM’s vote share fell from 30.08 per cent in 2011 to just 4.49 per cent in 2026, while the Congress declined from 9.09 per cent to 2.99 per cent over the same period. In contrast, the BJP’s rise from 4.06 per cent in 2011 to 46.24 per cent in 2026 closely mirrors the decline of the Left Front, indicating that much of the anti-TMC vote has migrated to the BJP rather than returning to traditional opposition parties.The question, therefore, is whether a weakened TMC would actually revive the Congress-Left combine or simply accelerate the BJP’s consolidation. While some minority voters could become disillusioned if the TMC descends into prolonged factionalism, there is little recent evidence to suggest a large-scale shift towards the Congress or the Left. The TMC still secured 41.16 per cent of the vote in 2026 despite its defeat, suggesting that it retains a substantial social and electoral base that may not be easily transferable.That vote share, Sanjay Jha argues, is also a reminder that the TMC remains a significant political force despite its current crisis. Even after a major electoral defeat, it continues to command the support of more than four in ten voters, suggesting that assumptions about its rapid decline may be premature.Suggesting the “best way forward”, he said, “TMC still has more than 40% of the vote share. So, add Congress and together they become a viable alternative.”This also raises a broader question about the future shape of Bengal politics. Is the state moving towards a bipolar BJP-versus-TMC contest, with other parties increasingly marginalised? Or could a TMC split create an opening for the Congress and the Left to re-emerge as a meaningful third force? Or could the TMC find its way back to the Congress—the very party it broke away from in 1998 to chart an independent political course? For now, the electoral data points more strongly to the former scenario, but the answer may depend on where disgruntled TMC leaders, minority voters and anti-BJP constituencies choose to align in the months ahead.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAastha JhaAastha Jha is a writer at The Times of India, covering politics. She also writes on business, global affairs, social issues, with a focus on policy, governance and their impact on everyday lives. Her work brings together reportage and analysis, tracking developments in India and abroad while examining the broader social and economic currents shaping public discourse.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAfter Weeks In Captivity, 14 Freed In Manipur, Search Intensifies For Six Missing MenSushmita Dev Quits TMC & Rajya Sabha, Delivering Fresh Blow To Mamata Banerjee As TMC Crisis DeepensParaquat Debate: Why Is India Still Allowing A Herbicide Banned In 74 Countries?Narendra Modi Overtakes Jawaharlal Nehru As India’s Longest-Serving Democratically Elected PMPOK Protests, Detentions & Killings Vs Zojila Tunnel: Two Very Different Stories Across KashmirTMC Faces Fresh Rebellion As MPs Cozy Up To NDA, Shatrughan Sinha’s Silence Raises QuestionsDelhi Races Against Monsoon: 70% Drain Desilting Completed, June 15 Deadline SetFlying Could Cost More As Government-Backed ATF Price Hike Raises Airline Operating CostsIndus Waters Treaty In Abeyance: Centre Says Pakistan Won’t Get ‘A Single Drop’ Of WaterMamata Banerjee’s Rare Meeting With Sonia Gandhi Sparks Speculation Of Opposition Realignment123Photostories6 places in India where you literally stand above the cloudsFrom hair spray to dry shampoo: 6 types of hair care products and how to use them for bouncy, shiny hairCompost vs potting soil vs topsoil: What sets them apart and when each should be used for best gardening results5 food influencer behaviours that are ruining the dining experience and how10 places where an earthquake became a tourist attractionShould parents read their child’s chats? Experts weigh inWhy toxic people feel so familiar to you: 5 psychology-backed reasons that may surprise youExplore the temple that you should visit for mental peace; according to birth dateNikhil Kamath’s Bengaluru home is an epitome of modern luxury, sustainability and effortless sophisticationTreasure hunt to game tournament: 10 fun and budget-friendly summer activities for kids aged 8–12123Hot PicksSourth Africa ShootingBharathirajaDelhi hotel fireAshok MuralidaranFIFA World Cup ScheduleKarnataka Trader NewsHector PennKerala Plus One ResultTNEA Random NumberTop TrendingBAN vs AUS Live ScoreUS Iran warGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireChennai TNSTC BusMeerut Conversion CaseBareilly NewsFilmmaker Bharathiraja DeathKarnataka Murder

Trinamool Congress, born from the grassroots in 1998, is seeing the ground slip from beneath its feet, with rebels asserting themselves in the assembly and Parliament.In 2011, Mamata Banerjee’s party ended 34 years of Left rule in West Bengal, making her the state’s first woman chief minister and ushering in a 15-year stint in power. But when the TMC suffered its first electoral defeat at the hands of the BJP in 2026, the bigger challenge emerged after the results.Within weeks, a wave of revolt swept through the party at the local, state and national levels. Roughly three-quarters of the TMC’s legislators rebelled against both Mamata Banerjee and her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, widely seen as her political heir. The dissidents seized control of the party’s legislative wing, installed their own leader of the opposition and openly challenged the leadership’s authority.The unrest soon spread to Parliament. TMC MPs in Rajya Sabha, Sushmita Dev and Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, resigned from both the Upper House and the party, while rebel Lok Sabha MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar claimed that nearly 20 TMC MPs were prepared to support the BJP-led NDA. The developments have triggered speculation about whether the TMC is headed for a formal split — and, more importantly, who stands to benefit if it does.The answer could have implications far beyond Bengal. A fractured TMC could strengthen the BJP both in Parliament and in the state, potentially follow a pattern seen in Maharashtra, Bihar and Odisha, or create an opening for the Congress and the Left to reclaim political space after years of decline.How BJP benefitsIf the Trinamool Congress (TMC) splits, the BJP stands to gain both numerically and politically. The immediate advantage lies in Parliament, where rebel MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar has claimed that around 20 of the party’s 28 Lok Sabha MPs are prepared to support the BJP-led NDA. Even if the dissidents do not formally join the BJP, their support would weaken one of the BJP’s principal opponents while strengthening the ruling coalition.The rebellion has revived speculation that the NDA may improve its chances of securing the numbers required for key constitutional amendments. Earlier this year, the Constitution (One Hundred and Thirty First Amendment) Bill, 2026, popularly known as the Delimitation Bill, failed to pass after the government fell short of the two-thirds majority required in Parliament. The Women’s Reservation Constitution Amendment Bill, which had been linked to the delimitation exercise, also stalled for the same reason. Support from a sizeable bloc of TMC dissidents could potentially strengthen the NDA’s position on such legislation, even if it does not immediately alter the formal composition of the ruling alliance.The bigger gains, however, could come in West Bengal. Despite the BJP’s emphatic victory in the 2026 assembly elections, the gap in vote share between the two parties was relatively narrow. While the BJP won 207 seats against the TMC’s 80, it secured 46.24 per cent of the vote compared to the TMC’s 41.16 per cent. The numbers suggest that the TMC still retains a substantial support base, but a split could fragment that vote further, making it easier for the BJP to consolidate its dominance in the state.A divided TMC would also give the BJP an opportunity to attract disgruntled leaders, legislators and local organisers. Political observers point out that the BJP has often benefited when regional parties weaken through internal divisions, as seen in states such as Maharashtra and Bihar. In Bengal, where the BJP has emerged as the principal pole of politics, defections from the TMC could further strengthen its organisational reach.The BJP may also benefit because there is little evidence that a weakened TMC would automatically help the Congress or the Left. In recent years, much of the anti-TMC vote has shifted towards the BJP rather than other opposition parties.Political commentator and former Congress spokesperson Sanjay Jha argues that this trend is partly rooted in the TMC’s own political strategy over the past decade. According to him, the party steadily absorbed much of the Congress’s organisational and electoral base in Bengal, leaving little space for a viable third force. As the Congress and the Left weakened, anti-incumbency sentiment against the TMC increasingly found expression through the BJP.”A bipolar contest always helps the BJP significantly because it plays a more polarised game,” Jha says. If the TMC fragments further, he argues, the BJP could once again emerge as the principal beneficiary rather than the Congress or the Left.Maharashtra, Bihar, Odisha: Is Bengal following a familiar script?The turmoil within the TMC is drawing comparisons with political developments in several states where dominant regional parties either fractured internally or gradually lost ground to the BJP. The closest parallel is Maharashtra, where rebellions within the Shiv Sena and later the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) began among legislators before spreading to Parliament and eventually resulting in rival factions claiming legitimacy. In both cases, the splits weakened opposition parties and strengthened the BJP’s position.The developments in Bengal appear to be following a similar trajectory. The revolt began with dissident MLAs challenging the party leadership and has now reached Parliament, with rebel MPs claiming the support of a significant section of the TMC’s Lok Sabha contingent. Veteran Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Sekhar Ray has already suggested that the unrest within the party’s parliamentary ranks could deepen further.Beyond Maharashtra, Bengal’s political churn also resembles a broader national trend. In Odisha, the BJP gradually displaced the Biju Janata Dal after more than two decades in power. In Bihar, regional formations such as the JD(U) and RJD have steadily ceded political space as the BJP expanded its footprint. Across states, parties once seen as dominant regional forces have found it increasingly difficult to withstand the BJP’s organisational and electoral growth.The TMC’s troubles come at a time when several regional parties have either lost power, fragmented or seen their influence diminish. Whether Bengal ultimately follows the Maharashtra model of a formal split or the Odisha model of a dominant regional force being replaced remains unclear. But the experience of other states suggests that internal divisions often accelerate a process already underway — the weakening of regional parties and the consolidation of the BJP as the principal pole of politics.Can the INDIA bloc afford a weakened TMC?The TMC’s crisis has implications beyond West Bengal. As one of the INDIA bloc’s largest constituents and among the BJP’s strongest opponents in Parliament, a weakened or divided TMC would reduce the opposition alliance’s collective strength at a time when it is already facing internal strains.Mamata Banerjee’s presence at the INDIA bloc meeting in Delhi was therefore significant. Coming amid rebellion within her party, it underscored her need for a broader opposition platform even as the alliance seeks to retain unity after recent electoral setbacks. With the DMK also distancing itself from the bloc, the weakening of another major regional player could further complicate the opposition’s efforts to present a united challenge to the BJP.Some opposition voices argue that the TMC’s troubles make greater coordination within the INDIA bloc even more important. Sanjay Jha contends that neither the Congress nor the TMC is currently strong enough in Bengal to effectively challenge the BJP on its own. A divided opposition, he argues, would only make it easier for the BJP to consolidate its gains in the state.”They are planning this game to make sure that the TMC is not in a good position in the Lok Sabha of 2029, which is only two and a half years away or three years away. So, what should happen ideally in West Bengal is that the TMC and the Congress will have to come together. TMC and Congress have no alternative but to come together,” he said.For the INDIA bloc, the question is not just whether the TMC survives intact, but whether the opposition can remain cohesive if one of its key pillars is weakened from within.Opportunity for Left, Congress or just a mirage?A split in the TMC could, at least in theory, create political space for the Congress and the Left. Both parties have struggled to remain relevant in West Bengal since the rise of Mamata Banerjee, and a weakening of the TMC could allow them to position themselves as an alternative for voters uncomfortable with both the BJP and the ruling party. The Congress, in particular, could seek to attract minority voters and sections of the anti-BJP electorate if the TMC appears divided or unable to effectively challenge the saffron party.Yet others caution that the Congress may not be in a position to capitalise on such an opening. Sanjay Jha argues that the party’s organisational structure in Bengal has weakened significantly after decades out of power and cannot be rebuilt overnight. Having been out of power in the state for decades, the Congress would struggle to rapidly fill any vacuum created by a TMC split.”The Congress has no organisational muscle in West Bengal. I don’t think the Congress is suddenly going to find an opportunity and, even if there is one, I don’t think it is capable of leveraging it,” he said.Even, electoral trends suggest that such gains are far from guaranteed. Data from the past 4 assembly elections shows a dramatic collapse of the Left-Congress space. The CPM’s vote share fell from 30.08 per cent in 2011 to just 4.49 per cent in 2026, while the Congress declined from 9.09 per cent to 2.99 per cent over the same period. In contrast, the BJP’s rise from 4.06 per cent in 2011 to 46.24 per cent in 2026 closely mirrors the decline of the Left Front, indicating that much of the anti-TMC vote has migrated to the BJP rather than returning to traditional opposition parties.The question, therefore, is whether a weakened TMC would actually revive the Congress-Left combine or simply accelerate the BJP’s consolidation. While some minority voters could become disillusioned if the TMC descends into prolonged factionalism, there is little recent evidence to suggest a large-scale shift towards the Congress or the Left. The TMC still secured 41.16 per cent of the vote in 2026 despite its defeat, suggesting that it retains a substantial social and electoral base that may not be easily transferable.That vote share, Sanjay Jha argues, is also a reminder that the TMC remains a significant political force despite its current crisis. Even after a major electoral defeat, it continues to command the support of more than four in ten voters, suggesting that assumptions about its rapid decline may be premature.Suggesting the “best way forward”, he said, “TMC still has more than 40% of the vote share. So, add Congress and together they become a viable alternative.”This also raises a broader question about the future shape of Bengal politics. Is the state moving towards a bipolar BJP-versus-TMC contest, with other parties increasingly marginalised? Or could a TMC split create an opening for the Congress and the Left to re-emerge as a meaningful third force? Or could the TMC find its way back to the Congress—the very party it broke away from in 1998 to chart an independent political course? For now, the electoral data points more strongly to the former scenario, but the answer may depend on where disgruntled TMC leaders, minority voters and anti-BJP constituencies choose to align in the months ahead.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAastha JhaAastha Jha is a writer at The Times of India, covering politics. She also writes on business, global affairs, social issues, with a focus on policy, governance and their impact on everyday lives. Her work brings together reportage and analysis, tracking developments in India and abroad while examining the broader social and economic currents shaping public discourse.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAfter Weeks In Captivity, 14 Freed In Manipur, Search Intensifies For Six Missing MenSushmita Dev Quits TMC & Rajya Sabha, Delivering Fresh Blow To Mamata Banerjee As TMC Crisis DeepensParaquat Debate: Why Is India Still Allowing A Herbicide Banned In 74 Countries?Narendra Modi Overtakes Jawaharlal Nehru As India’s Longest-Serving Democratically Elected PMPOK Protests, Detentions & Killings Vs Zojila Tunnel: Two Very Different Stories Across KashmirTMC Faces Fresh Rebellion As MPs Cozy Up To NDA, Shatrughan Sinha’s Silence Raises QuestionsDelhi Races Against Monsoon: 70% Drain Desilting Completed, June 15 Deadline SetFlying Could Cost More As Government-Backed ATF Price Hike Raises Airline Operating CostsIndus Waters Treaty In Abeyance: Centre Says Pakistan Won’t Get ‘A Single Drop’ Of WaterMamata Banerjee’s Rare Meeting With Sonia Gandhi Sparks Speculation Of Opposition Realignment123Photostories6 places in India where you literally stand above the cloudsFrom hair spray to dry shampoo: 6 types of hair care products and how to use them for bouncy, shiny hairCompost vs potting soil vs topsoil: What sets them apart and when each should be used for best gardening results5 food influencer behaviours that are ruining the dining experience and how10 places where an earthquake became a tourist attractionShould parents read their child’s chats? Experts weigh inWhy toxic people feel so familiar to you: 5 psychology-backed reasons that may surprise youExplore the temple that you should visit for mental peace; according to birth dateNikhil Kamath’s Bengaluru home is an epitome of modern luxury, sustainability and effortless sophisticationTreasure hunt to game tournament: 10 fun and budget-friendly summer activities for kids aged 8–12123Hot PicksSourth Africa ShootingBharathirajaDelhi hotel fireAshok MuralidaranFIFA World Cup ScheduleKarnataka Trader NewsHector PennKerala Plus One ResultTNEA Random NumberTop TrendingBAN vs AUS Live ScoreUS Iran warGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireChennai TNSTC BusMeerut Conversion CaseBareilly NewsFilmmaker Bharathiraja DeathKarnataka Murder

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File photo NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the 11th Governing Council meeting of Niti Aayog on Thursday at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi.The meeting will be held under the theme “Inclusive Human Development for Viksit Bharat @2047” and is expected to bring together chief ministers, lieutenant governors, Union ministers, and senior Niti Aayog officials to discuss development priorities and implementation strategies.Discussions will centre on an Inclusive Human Development Framework built around four key areas: foundational human capital and future-ready skills, productive employment and entrepreneurship, health and nutrition, and equity and dignity for all.Focus on jobs, skills and development outcomesThe meeting is also expected to deliberate on measures to promote entrepreneurship, strengthen skilling iNitiatives and create sustainable employment opportuNities across the country.As per the official release, participants will discuss an implementation roadmap that will rely on governance reforms, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), partnerships, convergence among schemes and data-driven systems to monitor outcomes over the short, medium and long term.The discussions will also focus on aligning state-level development plans with the broader national vision for inclusive human development.The Governing Council is also expected to review recommendations emerging from the 5th National Conference of Chief Secretaries, held from December 26 to 28, 2025.The recommendations were made across five sectors: early childhood education, schooling, skilling, higher education, and sports and extracurricular activities, according to the release.The meeting will be attended by chief ministers of states and Union Territories, lieutenant governors and administrators of Union Territories, Union ministers serving as ex-officio members and special invitees, along with the vice chairman, members and CEO of Niti Aayog, the release said.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosSushmita Dev Quits TMC & Rajya Sabha, Delivering Fresh Blow To Mamata Banerjee As TMC Crisis DeepensParaquat Debate: Why Is India Still Allowing A Herbicide Banned In 74 Countries?Narendra Modi Overtakes Jawaharlal Nehru As India’s Longest-Serving Democratically Elected PMPOK Protests, Detentions & Killings Vs Zojila Tunnel: Two Very Different Stories Across KashmirTMC Faces Fresh Rebellion As MPs Cozy Up To NDA, Shatrughan Sinha’s Silence Raises QuestionsDelhi Races Against Monsoon: 70% Drain Desilting Completed, June 15 Deadline SetFlying Could Cost More As Government-Backed ATF Price Hike Raises Airline Operating CostsIndus Waters Treaty In Abeyance: Centre Says Pakistan Won’t Get ‘A Single Drop’ Of WaterMamata Banerjee’s Rare Meeting With Sonia Gandhi Sparks Speculation Of Opposition RealignmentIndia’s Nuclear Posture Shifts As SIPRI Flags Deployment Of 12 Warheads | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom hair spray to dry shampoo: 6 types of hair care products and how to use them for bouncy, shiny hairCompost vs potting soil vs topsoil: What sets them apart and when each should be used for best gardening results5 food influencer behaviours that are ruining the dining experience and how10 places where an earthquake became a tourist attractionShould parents read their child’s chats? Experts weigh inWhy toxic people feel so familiar to you: 5 psychology-backed reasons that may surprise youExplore the temple that you should visit for mental peace; according to birth dateNikhil Kamath’s Bengaluru home is an epitome of modern luxury, sustainability and effortless sophisticationTreasure hunt to game tournament: 10 fun and budget-friendly summer activities for kids aged 8–12This town is built under massive cliffs and is becoming a must-visit destination123Hot PicksSourth Africa ShootingBharathirajaDelhi hotel fireAshok MuralidaranFIFA World Cup ScheduleKarnataka Trader NewsHector PennKerala Plus One ResultTNEA Random NumberTop TrendingBAN vs AUS Live ScoreUS Iran warGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireChennai TNSTC BusMeerut Conversion CaseBareilly NewsFilmmaker Bharathiraja DeathKarnataka Murder

File photo NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the 11th Governing Council meeting of Niti Aayog on Thursday at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre in New Delhi.The meeting will be held under the theme “Inclusive Human Development for Viksit Bharat @2047” and is expected to bring together chief ministers, lieutenant governors, Union ministers, and senior Niti Aayog officials to discuss development priorities and implementation strategies.Discussions will centre on an Inclusive Human Development Framework built around four key areas: foundational human capital and future-ready skills, productive employment and entrepreneurship, health and nutrition, and equity and dignity for all.Focus on jobs, skills and development outcomesThe meeting is also expected to deliberate on measures to promote entrepreneurship, strengthen skilling iNitiatives and create sustainable employment opportuNities across the country.As per the official release, participants will discuss an implementation roadmap that will rely on governance reforms, Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), partnerships, convergence among schemes and data-driven systems to monitor outcomes over the short, medium and long term.The discussions will also focus on aligning state-level development plans with the broader national vision for inclusive human development.The Governing Council is also expected to review recommendations emerging from the 5th National Conference of Chief Secretaries, held from December 26 to 28, 2025.The recommendations were made across five sectors: early childhood education, schooling, skilling, higher education, and sports and extracurricular activities, according to the release.The meeting will be attended by chief ministers of states and Union Territories, lieutenant governors and administrators of Union Territories, Union ministers serving as ex-officio members and special invitees, along with the vice chairman, members and CEO of Niti Aayog, the release said.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosSushmita Dev Quits TMC & Rajya Sabha, Delivering Fresh Blow To Mamata Banerjee As TMC Crisis DeepensParaquat Debate: Why Is India Still Allowing A Herbicide Banned In 74 Countries?Narendra Modi Overtakes Jawaharlal Nehru As India’s Longest-Serving Democratically Elected PMPOK Protests, Detentions & Killings Vs Zojila Tunnel: Two Very Different Stories Across KashmirTMC Faces Fresh Rebellion As MPs Cozy Up To NDA, Shatrughan Sinha’s Silence Raises QuestionsDelhi Races Against Monsoon: 70% Drain Desilting Completed, June 15 Deadline SetFlying Could Cost More As Government-Backed ATF Price Hike Raises Airline Operating CostsIndus Waters Treaty In Abeyance: Centre Says Pakistan Won’t Get ‘A Single Drop’ Of WaterMamata Banerjee’s Rare Meeting With Sonia Gandhi Sparks Speculation Of Opposition RealignmentIndia’s Nuclear Posture Shifts As SIPRI Flags Deployment Of 12 Warheads | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom hair spray to dry shampoo: 6 types of hair care products and how to use them for bouncy, shiny hairCompost vs potting soil vs topsoil: What sets them apart and when each should be used for best gardening results5 food influencer behaviours that are ruining the dining experience and how10 places where an earthquake became a tourist attractionShould parents read their child’s chats? Experts weigh inWhy toxic people feel so familiar to you: 5 psychology-backed reasons that may surprise youExplore the temple that you should visit for mental peace; according to birth dateNikhil Kamath’s Bengaluru home is an epitome of modern luxury, sustainability and effortless sophisticationTreasure hunt to game tournament: 10 fun and budget-friendly summer activities for kids aged 8–12This town is built under massive cliffs and is becoming a must-visit destination123Hot PicksSourth Africa ShootingBharathirajaDelhi hotel fireAshok MuralidaranFIFA World Cup ScheduleKarnataka Trader NewsHector PennKerala Plus One ResultTNEA Random NumberTop TrendingBAN vs AUS Live ScoreUS Iran warGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireChennai TNSTC BusMeerut Conversion CaseBareilly NewsFilmmaker Bharathiraja DeathKarnataka Murder

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Swapan Dasgupta (File photo) NEW DELHI: Newly sworn-in West Bengal ministers were allocated portfolios on Wednesday, with Swapan Dasgupta placed in charge of the finance department and Tapas Roy appointed as industries minister.Dasgupta was elected from the Rashbehari assembly constituency and is a former Rajya Sabha member.The allocation covered 13 Cabinet ministers and 22 ministers of state, including three with independent charge.BJP MLA from Bidhannagar, Sharadwat Mukherjee, was named health minister. Dudh Kumar Mondal was given the agriculture portfolio, while journalist-turned-politician Jagannath Chattopadhyay was appointed higher education minister. Dipak Barman took charge of the school education department.Shankar Ghosh, the MLA from Siliguri, was assigned tourism and parliamentary affairs, while Arjun Singh was given responsibility for the labour and transport ministries.Among ministers of state with independent charge, Indranil Khan was allotted the sports and youth portfolio along with consumer affairs, and Malati Rava Roy was given charge of women and child development.In total, 35 MLAs were sworn in as ministers on June 1, as West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari expanded his cabinet, taking the council of ministers’ strength to 41.This is the BJP’s first government in West Bengal after it defeated the Trinamool Congress in the state assembly elections held in late April, ending the Mamata Banerjee-led party’s 15-year rule.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosParaquat Debate: Why Is India Still Allowing A Herbicide Banned In 74 Countries?Narendra Modi Overtakes Jawaharlal Nehru As India’s Longest-Serving Democratically Elected PMPOK Protests, Detentions & Killings Vs Zojila Tunnel: Two Very Different Stories Across KashmirTMC Faces Fresh Rebellion As MPs Cozy Up To NDA, Shatrughan Sinha’s Silence Raises QuestionsDelhi Races Against Monsoon: 70% Drain Desilting Completed, June 15 Deadline SetFlying Could Cost More As Government-Backed ATF Price Hike Raises Airline Operating CostsIndus Waters Treaty In Abeyance: Centre Says Pakistan Won’t Get ‘A Single Drop’ Of WaterMamata Banerjee’s Rare Meeting With Sonia Gandhi Sparks Speculation Of Opposition RealignmentIndia’s Nuclear Posture Shifts As SIPRI Flags Deployment Of 12 Warheads | WatchCongress Alleges EC Blocked Delegation Amid Meenakshi Natarajan Rajya Sabha Nomination Row | Watch123PhotostoriesShould parents read their child’s chats? Experts weigh inWhy toxic people feel so familiar to you: 5 psychology-backed reasons that may surprise youExplore the temple that you should visit for mental peace; according to birth dateNikhil Kamath’s Bengaluru home is an epitome of modern luxury, sustainability and effortless sophisticationTreasure hunt to game tournament: 10 fun and budget-friendly summer activities for kids aged 8–12This town is built under massive cliffs and is becoming a must-visit destinationBalcony gardening tips: 6 Smart ways to transform a tiny apartment balcony into a lush green retreatWhy more young Indians are being diagnosed with diabetes despite not being overweightThis day, that year: From Bonnie and Clyde’s devastating crash to Spirit Rover’s Mars journey — How June 10 shaped the worldHanging baskets turning thin: 7 Smart care tips to keep them overflowing with flowers123Hot PicksSourth Africa ShootingBharathirajaDelhi hotel fireAshok MuralidaranFIFA World Cup ScheduleKarnataka Trader NewsHector PennKerala Plus One ResultTNEA Random NumberTop TrendingBAN vs AUS Live ScoreUS Iran warGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireChennai TNSTC BusMeerut Conversion CaseBareilly NewsFilmmaker Bharathiraja DeathKarnataka Murder

Swapan Dasgupta (File photo) NEW DELHI: Newly sworn-in West Bengal ministers were allocated portfolios on Wednesday, with Swapan Dasgupta placed in charge of the finance department and Tapas Roy appointed as industries minister.Dasgupta was elected from the Rashbehari assembly constituency and is a former Rajya Sabha member.The allocation covered 13 Cabinet ministers and 22 ministers of state, including three with independent charge.BJP MLA from Bidhannagar, Sharadwat Mukherjee, was named health minister. Dudh Kumar Mondal was given the agriculture portfolio, while journalist-turned-politician Jagannath Chattopadhyay was appointed higher education minister. Dipak Barman took charge of the school education department.Shankar Ghosh, the MLA from Siliguri, was assigned tourism and parliamentary affairs, while Arjun Singh was given responsibility for the labour and transport ministries.Among ministers of state with independent charge, Indranil Khan was allotted the sports and youth portfolio along with consumer affairs, and Malati Rava Roy was given charge of women and child development.In total, 35 MLAs were sworn in as ministers on June 1, as West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari expanded his cabinet, taking the council of ministers’ strength to 41.This is the BJP’s first government in West Bengal after it defeated the Trinamool Congress in the state assembly elections held in late April, ending the Mamata Banerjee-led party’s 15-year rule.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosParaquat Debate: Why Is India Still Allowing A Herbicide Banned In 74 Countries?Narendra Modi Overtakes Jawaharlal Nehru As India’s Longest-Serving Democratically Elected PMPOK Protests, Detentions & Killings Vs Zojila Tunnel: Two Very Different Stories Across KashmirTMC Faces Fresh Rebellion As MPs Cozy Up To NDA, Shatrughan Sinha’s Silence Raises QuestionsDelhi Races Against Monsoon: 70% Drain Desilting Completed, June 15 Deadline SetFlying Could Cost More As Government-Backed ATF Price Hike Raises Airline Operating CostsIndus Waters Treaty In Abeyance: Centre Says Pakistan Won’t Get ‘A Single Drop’ Of WaterMamata Banerjee’s Rare Meeting With Sonia Gandhi Sparks Speculation Of Opposition RealignmentIndia’s Nuclear Posture Shifts As SIPRI Flags Deployment Of 12 Warheads | WatchCongress Alleges EC Blocked Delegation Amid Meenakshi Natarajan Rajya Sabha Nomination Row | Watch123PhotostoriesShould parents read their child’s chats? Experts weigh inWhy toxic people feel so familiar to you: 5 psychology-backed reasons that may surprise youExplore the temple that you should visit for mental peace; according to birth dateNikhil Kamath’s Bengaluru home is an epitome of modern luxury, sustainability and effortless sophisticationTreasure hunt to game tournament: 10 fun and budget-friendly summer activities for kids aged 8–12This town is built under massive cliffs and is becoming a must-visit destinationBalcony gardening tips: 6 Smart ways to transform a tiny apartment balcony into a lush green retreatWhy more young Indians are being diagnosed with diabetes despite not being overweightThis day, that year: From Bonnie and Clyde’s devastating crash to Spirit Rover’s Mars journey — How June 10 shaped the worldHanging baskets turning thin: 7 Smart care tips to keep them overflowing with flowers123Hot PicksSourth Africa ShootingBharathirajaDelhi hotel fireAshok MuralidaranFIFA World Cup ScheduleKarnataka Trader NewsHector PennKerala Plus One ResultTNEA Random NumberTop TrendingBAN vs AUS Live ScoreUS Iran warGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireChennai TNSTC BusMeerut Conversion CaseBareilly NewsFilmmaker Bharathiraja DeathKarnataka Murder

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