May 18, 2026
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Thursday submitted a “summary response” to the Election Commission’s notice issued to party president Mallikarjun Kharge over his “terrorist” remark, alleging that the move “smacks of ulterior motives” and does not constitute a violation of the Model Code of Conduct or any law.The party has sought one week’s time to file a detailed reply.In a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh flagged discrepancies in the notices issued by the poll body.”We are in receipt of two notices with the same number … both dated April 22, 2026, and signed by two different officials,” Ramesh said, adding that if one had been withdrawn, there was no mention of it.He also pointed out that while one notice cited a complaint by Trinamool Congress leader Derek O’Brien, the other version uploaded on the EC’s website omitted the complainant’s name.”This indicates a casual and routine manner in which show-cause notices are being issued, merely on the basis of the ruling party’s complaints and without due application of mind,” Ramesh alleged, also criticising the 24-hour deadline given to Kharge to respond.Calling the time frame insufficient, he said Kharge is currently engaged in multiple campaign events.”It appears the notice is being issued as a formality rather than in the spirit of natural justice,” Ramesh said.The Congress has requested a week’s time to submit a detailed response and sought an opportunity for a senior delegation to present its case before the Commission.In its summary reply, the party said Kharge had already clarified his remarks.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Uninformed, Inappropriate’: India Responds To Trump’s ‘Hell-hole’ Comment‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil Nadu123PhotostoriesGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch for123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: The Congress on Thursday submitted a “summary response” to the Election Commission’s notice issued to party president Mallikarjun Kharge over his “terrorist” remark, alleging that the move “smacks of ulterior motives” and does not constitute a violation of the Model Code of Conduct or any law.The party has sought one week’s time to file a detailed reply.In a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh flagged discrepancies in the notices issued by the poll body.”We are in receipt of two notices with the same number … both dated April 22, 2026, and signed by two different officials,” Ramesh said, adding that if one had been withdrawn, there was no mention of it.He also pointed out that while one notice cited a complaint by Trinamool Congress leader Derek O’Brien, the other version uploaded on the EC’s website omitted the complainant’s name.”This indicates a casual and routine manner in which show-cause notices are being issued, merely on the basis of the ruling party’s complaints and without due application of mind,” Ramesh alleged, also criticising the 24-hour deadline given to Kharge to respond.Calling the time frame insufficient, he said Kharge is currently engaged in multiple campaign events.”It appears the notice is being issued as a formality rather than in the spirit of natural justice,” Ramesh said.The Congress has requested a week’s time to submit a detailed response and sought an opportunity for a senior delegation to present its case before the Commission.In its summary reply, the party said Kharge had already clarified his remarks.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Uninformed, Inappropriate’: India Responds To Trump’s ‘Hell-hole’ Comment‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil Nadu123PhotostoriesGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch for123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: The Congress on Thursday submitted a “summary response” to the Election Commission’s notice issued to party president Mallikarjun Kharge over his “terrorist” remark, alleging that the move “smacks of ulterior motives” and does not constitute a violation of the Model Code of Conduct or any law.The party has sought one week’s time to…

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After Dhurandhar success, Rakesh Bedi gets Rs 1 crore bonus after impressing as Jameel Jamali in Ranveer Singh starrer franchise

After Dhurandhar success, Rakesh Bedi gets Rs 1 crore bonus after impressing as Jameel Jamali in Ranveer Singh starrer franchise

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi is reaping the rewards of the blockbuster success of Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar (2025) and Dhurandhar The Revenge (2026), starring Ranveer Singh. Known for his impeccable comic timing and vast body of work, the actor has witnessed a fresh surge in popularity with the franchise.It has now emerged that the makers went…

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. NEW DELHI: India is finalising its hub-and-spoke policy of flying passengers between small towns and rest of the world via hub like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. The move comes amid Air India and IndiGo’s massive orders for wide body aircraft; the coming of age of Indian hub airports that are gearing up for domestic-to-international and vice-versa transfers; and the biggest hubs of international travel to and from India in the Gulf like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha facing uncertainty over when the resume pre Feb 28 operations. Union aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu visited and secretary Samir Sinha visited the upcoming hub at Delhi’s IGI Airport — India’s busiest airport — on Thursday to fine-tune the policy and begin its implementation in right earnest.Sinha is tackling what is the biggest pain point for international to domestic passengers — they need to collect their baggage on the port of arrival in India; clear customs and then then check-in again for the domestic connecting flight. “baggage for both inbound and outbound international passengers will be transferred seamlessly through airside operations at the hub airport, eliminating the need for passenger intervention,” the aviation ministry says about the change under the new hub-and-spoke policy.Passengers flying out of India, say from Lucknow to Delhi to London, on the other hand, can through check-in their bag at Lucknow itself if both their flights are on the same airline or alliance’ code share partner carriers. The operating procedure for domestic to international transfers: “Under the hub-and-spoke model, passengers arriving from various smaller cities will be consolidated in a coordinated manner and routed through major hub airports such as Delhi for onward international connections. At the spoke (smaller origin) airport, passengers will be issued two separate boarding passes, clearly marked with ‘D’ (domestic) and ‘I’ (international) indicators,” the aviation ministry said in a statement.“Customs and immigration formalities for outbound passengers will be completed at the first point of exit from the country, which will be the spoke airport, and passengers on such outbound journeys will not have access to customs declaration facilities during transit,” it said.The operating procedure for international to domestic transfers: “For inbound passengers, customs and immigration processes will take place at the final point of entry into the country, which will again be the spoke airport…. baggage for both inbound and outbound international passengers will be transferred seamlessly through airside operations at the hub airport, eliminating the need for passenger intervention. In order to maintain operational efficiency and regulatory clarity, combination flights will not be permitted, and separate aircraft will be deployed for the domestic and international segments of hub-and-spoke operations,” it said.Naidu said India is aiming to enable seamless connectivity between Tier-II and Tier-III airports and international destinations. “While passengers will benefit from reduced travel time, there will also be optimal utilisation of infrastructure already developed across the country,” he said.The hub and spoke strategy aims to alter India from being a source market of traffic for feeding foreign airlines and hubs, to a “global transit hub, thereby allowing Indian airports to capture a substantial share of transfer traffic that is currently routed through foreign hubs.”Naidu said: “At present, nearly 35% of international passengers travelling from India transit through foreign hubs such as Dubai, London and Singapore. Our aim is to reverse this trend by developing globally competitive Indian hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Chennai.”“Delhi Airport (for instance) stands out with its capacity exceeding 10 crore passengers annually, handling nearly 50% of the total passenger traffic in the northern region and managing around 50,000 daily transfers, thereby positioning itself as a natural hub airport,” the minster said.The implementation of this hub-and-spoke model “will also enable airlines to deploy their aircraft more efficiently for international operations, while contributing to decongestion at major airports by decentralising customs and immigration processes to spoke locations,” Naidu said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch for123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

. NEW DELHI: India is finalising its hub-and-spoke policy of flying passengers between small towns and rest of the world via hub like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. The move comes amid Air India and IndiGo’s massive orders for wide body aircraft; the coming of age of Indian hub airports that are gearing up for domestic-to-international and vice-versa transfers; and the biggest hubs of international travel to and from India in the Gulf like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha facing uncertainty over when the resume pre Feb 28 operations. Union aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu visited and secretary Samir Sinha visited the upcoming hub at Delhi’s IGI Airport — India’s busiest airport — on Thursday to fine-tune the policy and begin its implementation in right earnest.Sinha is tackling what is the biggest pain point for international to domestic passengers — they need to collect their baggage on the port of arrival in India; clear customs and then then check-in again for the domestic connecting flight. “baggage for both inbound and outbound international passengers will be transferred seamlessly through airside operations at the hub airport, eliminating the need for passenger intervention,” the aviation ministry says about the change under the new hub-and-spoke policy.Passengers flying out of India, say from Lucknow to Delhi to London, on the other hand, can through check-in their bag at Lucknow itself if both their flights are on the same airline or alliance’ code share partner carriers. The operating procedure for domestic to international transfers: “Under the hub-and-spoke model, passengers arriving from various smaller cities will be consolidated in a coordinated manner and routed through major hub airports such as Delhi for onward international connections. At the spoke (smaller origin) airport, passengers will be issued two separate boarding passes, clearly marked with ‘D’ (domestic) and ‘I’ (international) indicators,” the aviation ministry said in a statement.“Customs and immigration formalities for outbound passengers will be completed at the first point of exit from the country, which will be the spoke airport, and passengers on such outbound journeys will not have access to customs declaration facilities during transit,” it said.The operating procedure for international to domestic transfers: “For inbound passengers, customs and immigration processes will take place at the final point of entry into the country, which will again be the spoke airport…. baggage for both inbound and outbound international passengers will be transferred seamlessly through airside operations at the hub airport, eliminating the need for passenger intervention. In order to maintain operational efficiency and regulatory clarity, combination flights will not be permitted, and separate aircraft will be deployed for the domestic and international segments of hub-and-spoke operations,” it said.Naidu said India is aiming to enable seamless connectivity between Tier-II and Tier-III airports and international destinations. “While passengers will benefit from reduced travel time, there will also be optimal utilisation of infrastructure already developed across the country,” he said.The hub and spoke strategy aims to alter India from being a source market of traffic for feeding foreign airlines and hubs, to a “global transit hub, thereby allowing Indian airports to capture a substantial share of transfer traffic that is currently routed through foreign hubs.”Naidu said: “At present, nearly 35% of international passengers travelling from India transit through foreign hubs such as Dubai, London and Singapore. Our aim is to reverse this trend by developing globally competitive Indian hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Chennai.”“Delhi Airport (for instance) stands out with its capacity exceeding 10 crore passengers annually, handling nearly 50% of the total passenger traffic in the northern region and managing around 50,000 daily transfers, thereby positioning itself as a natural hub airport,” the minster said.The implementation of this hub-and-spoke model “will also enable airlines to deploy their aircraft more efficiently for international operations, while contributing to decongestion at major airports by decentralising customs and immigration processes to spoke locations,” Naidu said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch for123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

NEW DELHI: India is finalising its hub-and-spoke policy of flying passengers between small towns and rest of the world via hub like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. The move comes amid Air India and IndiGo’s massive orders for wide body aircraft; the coming of age of Indian hub airports that are gearing up for domestic-to-international and…

Read More
Microsoft plans first-ever voluntary buyout for 8000-plus employees in America; tells them in memo: Our hope is that …

Microsoft plans first-ever voluntary buyout for 8000-plus employees in America; tells them in memo: Our hope is that …

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

FILE Picture (AP Photo/Jason Redmond, File) Microsoft is planning its first voluntary employee buyout in the company’s 51-year history. According to a memo, Microsoft is offering voluntary retirement to thousands of its employees in the US. Microsoft has never previously done buyouts of this scale. As per the report, about 7% of Microsoft’s workforce in…

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Updated: Apr 23, 2026, 20:12 IST

Updated: Apr 23, 2026, 20:12 IST

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) players took the field wearing black armbands in their IPL 2026 match against Mumbai Indians (MI) on Thursday.CSK and MI came face to face for the first time in IPL 2026. The much-awaited game, dubbed as the ‘El Classico’, entered a new phase as it is the first IPL match without…

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Trump’s ‘Gold Card’ visa: One cleared, hundreds await as million residency plan rolls out

Trump’s ‘Gold Card’ visa: One cleared, hundreds await as $1 million residency plan rolls out

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

The United States has approved only one applicant so far under President Donald Trump’s ‘Gold Card’ visa programme. According to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, the visa programme will offer US residency in exchange for a $1 million fee.Testifying before a US House committee on Thursday, Lutnick said that the identity of the approved applicant was…

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Global price shock: RBI warns of ‘second-round effects’ amid West Asia tensions

Global price shock: RBI warns of ‘second-round effects’ amid West Asia tensions

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cautioned that possible second-round effects, where supply shocks could transform into demand-side pressures, require careful and continuous assessment amid the ongoing West Asia conflict, according to the April edition of its bulletin.The bulletin noted that while the ceasefire between the United States and Iran has provided some breather…

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Kehlani talks about the clarity she gained after BPD diagnosis: ‘Being transparent helped me heal’ |

Kehlani talks about the clarity she gained after BPD diagnosis: ‘Being transparent helped me heal’ |

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Famed singer Kehlani has been open about her struggles with mental health and how she has been navigating them. A while back, the singer revealed that she had been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD), which had significantly affected her daily life. Now, in a recent interview, she opened up about her condition and the…

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Nandigram: People show their ink-marked fingers after casting votes during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly election, in Nandigram, Purba Medinipur district. (PTI Photo/Manvender Vashist Lav) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu and West Bengal recorded bumper polling on Thursday, with the Election Commission (ECI) saying both states saw their highest-ever voter turnout since Independence as voting ended at 6 pm.Polling concluded at 6pm, with West Bengal recording a turnout of 91.91% in the first of two phases, while Tamil Nadu saw 84.80% voting, according to the latest data by the ECI.“Highest-ever polling percentage in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu since Independence — the ECI salutes every voter,” Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said, according to ANI.Several districts in West Bengal recorded over 90% turnout, led by Dakshin Dinajpur (94.85%), followed by Cooch Behar (94.54%), Birbhum (93.70%), Jalpaiguri (93.23%) and Murshidabad (92.93%).Tamil Nadu also saw strong participation, with Karur leading at 92.48%, followed by Salem (90.42%), Dharmapuri (90.02%), Erode (89.97%) and Namakkal (89.63%).Significantly, in West Bengal, female turnout reached a record 92.69%, compared to 90.92% for men. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu, 85.76% of women voted, while male participation stood at 83.57%.Polling for all 234 assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu and 152 of 294 seats in West Bengal began at 7 am amid tight security. Voting for the remaining 142 seats in West Bengal will be held on April 29.Counting of votes in both states is scheduled for May 4.In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee and the TMC have been in power since 2011, with the chief minister now seeking a fourth consecutive term. The BJP is the principal challenger after its best-ever performance in the state in 2021.In Tamil Nadu, the DMK, which heads the Secular Progressive Alliance, is in power. Its main challenger is the National Democratic Alliance, led in the state by the DMK’s arch-rival, the AIADMK.In the 2021 assembly elections, voter turnout stood at 85.2% in West Bengal and 76.6% in Tamil Nadu.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‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch forWhy is the mayonnaise ban extended in this South Indian state till April 2027123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

Nandigram: People show their ink-marked fingers after casting votes during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly election, in Nandigram, Purba Medinipur district. (PTI Photo/Manvender Vashist Lav) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu and West Bengal recorded bumper polling on Thursday, with the Election Commission (ECI) saying both states saw their highest-ever voter turnout since Independence as voting ended at 6 pm.Polling concluded at 6pm, with West Bengal recording a turnout of 91.91% in the first of two phases, while Tamil Nadu saw 84.80% voting, according to the latest data by the ECI.“Highest-ever polling percentage in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu since Independence — the ECI salutes every voter,” Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said, according to ANI.Several districts in West Bengal recorded over 90% turnout, led by Dakshin Dinajpur (94.85%), followed by Cooch Behar (94.54%), Birbhum (93.70%), Jalpaiguri (93.23%) and Murshidabad (92.93%).Tamil Nadu also saw strong participation, with Karur leading at 92.48%, followed by Salem (90.42%), Dharmapuri (90.02%), Erode (89.97%) and Namakkal (89.63%).Significantly, in West Bengal, female turnout reached a record 92.69%, compared to 90.92% for men. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu, 85.76% of women voted, while male participation stood at 83.57%.Polling for all 234 assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu and 152 of 294 seats in West Bengal began at 7 am amid tight security. Voting for the remaining 142 seats in West Bengal will be held on April 29.Counting of votes in both states is scheduled for May 4.In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee and the TMC have been in power since 2011, with the chief minister now seeking a fourth consecutive term. The BJP is the principal challenger after its best-ever performance in the state in 2021.In Tamil Nadu, the DMK, which heads the Secular Progressive Alliance, is in power. Its main challenger is the National Democratic Alliance, led in the state by the DMK’s arch-rival, the AIADMK.In the 2021 assembly elections, voter turnout stood at 85.2% in West Bengal and 76.6% in Tamil Nadu.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‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch forWhy is the mayonnaise ban extended in this South Indian state till April 2027123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Nandigram: People show their ink-marked fingers after casting votes during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly election, in Nandigram, Purba Medinipur district. (PTI Photo/Manvender Vashist Lav) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu and West Bengal recorded bumper polling on Thursday, with the Election Commission (ECI) saying both states saw their highest-ever voter turnout since Independence…

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Shah Rukh Khan’s manager Pooja Dadlani buys three Bandra apartments with family for Rs 38.21 crore: Report

Shah Rukh Khan’s manager Pooja Dadlani buys three Bandra apartments with family for Rs 38.21 crore: Report

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Pooja Dadlani, long-time manager of Shah Rukh Khan, along with her husband Hitesh Prakash Gurnani and father Mohan Seoram Dadlani, has invested in three apartments in Mumbai’s Bandra area, with the total transaction value pegged at Rs 38.21 crore, as per property registration documents accessed by CRE Matrix. High-value deal in Carter Road project The…

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US President Donald Trump NEW DELHI: India on Thursday strongly expressed its reservations over US President Donald Trump’s “hell hole” remark, calling it “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste.” The comment came after Trump reshared an anti-immigration post targeting India and China.The MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “we have seen the comments, as also the subsequent statement issued by the US Embassy in response. The remarks are obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste. They certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-US relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests.”The response came after Trump reshared a post on Truth Social referring to India as a “hell-hole.” In the aftermath, an earlier remark in which he described India as a “great country” was highlighted by the US embassy spokesperson in New Delhi, in what appeared to be a damage-control effort.The MAGA supremo, known for his impulsive remarks, had amplified anti-immigration rhetoric through the repost targeting India and China in derogatory terms.Trump has repeatedly referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “great friend,” including during a recent 40-minutes phone call between the two leaders amid the Iran war.”I had a very good talk with him and he’s a friend of mine from India and he’s doing great. We had a very good conversation,” Trump said in response to a question by news agency ANI.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‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch forWhy is the mayonnaise ban extended in this South Indian state till April 2027123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

US President Donald Trump NEW DELHI: India on Thursday strongly expressed its reservations over US President Donald Trump’s “hell hole” remark, calling it “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste.” The comment came after Trump reshared an anti-immigration post targeting India and China.The MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “we have seen the comments, as also the subsequent statement issued by the US Embassy in response. The remarks are obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste. They certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-US relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests.”The response came after Trump reshared a post on Truth Social referring to India as a “hell-hole.” In the aftermath, an earlier remark in which he described India as a “great country” was highlighted by the US embassy spokesperson in New Delhi, in what appeared to be a damage-control effort.The MAGA supremo, known for his impulsive remarks, had amplified anti-immigration rhetoric through the repost targeting India and China in derogatory terms.Trump has repeatedly referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “great friend,” including during a recent 40-minutes phone call between the two leaders amid the Iran war.”I had a very good talk with him and he’s a friend of mine from India and he’s doing great. We had a very good conversation,” Trump said in response to a question by news agency ANI.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‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch forWhy is the mayonnaise ban extended in this South Indian state till April 2027123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

US President Donald Trump NEW DELHI: India on Thursday strongly expressed its reservations over US President Donald Trump’s “hell hole” remark, calling it “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste.” The comment came after Trump reshared an anti-immigration post targeting India and China.The MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “we have seen the comments, as also the…

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Annu Kapoor expresses anger towards Om Puri for ruining his sister Seema Kapoor’s life: ‘No enmity towards anyone, but there is regret’

Annu Kapoor expresses anger towards Om Puri for ruining his sister Seema Kapoor’s life: ‘No enmity towards anyone, but there is regret’

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

The late Om Puri is widely regarded as one of India’s most accomplished performers, but for Annu Kapoor, the association carries deeply personal and painful memories. Puri was married to Annu Kapoor’s sister Seema Kapoor. He later left her at the time when she was pregnant and married Nandita. In a recent conversation, Kapoor revisited…

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‘Deeply disturbed’: Hindu American Foundation reacts to Trump reposting racist screed targeting Indians, Chinese

‘Deeply disturbed’: Hindu American Foundation reacts to Trump reposting racist screed targeting Indians, Chinese

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

The Hindu American Foundation urged President Trump to delete his Truth Social post where he reposted Michael Savage’s rant calling India ‘hell-hole’. The Hindu American Foundation reacted to President Donald Trump sharing disparaging remarks about India at a time when racism is already at an all-time high, the HAF said. The president reported commentator Michael…

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Stanley Tucci and Felicity Blunt: Here’s all you need to know about the ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star’s wife

Stanley Tucci and Felicity Blunt: Here’s all you need to know about the ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star’s wife

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Stanley Tucci and Felicity Blunt have been married since 2012 and have supported each other through thick and thin. For Tucci, The Devil Wears Prada franchise holds special meaning, as he eventually fell in love with his co-star Emily Blunt’s sister and went on to marry her.Here’s everything you need to know about Felicity Blunt….

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California’s lawsuit to Amazon: You forced Levi’s, Hanes to increase prices on Walmart and Target

California’s lawsuit to Amazon: You forced Levi’s, Hanes to increase prices on Walmart and Target

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Amazon is facing price-fixing allegations in California. According to a report by The New York Times, a newly unsealed filing released this week claims that the e-commerce giant pressured major brands like Levi’s and Hanes to influence pricing on rival platforms. The filing is part of an ongoing antitrust lawsuit filed by the US state…

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