May 17, 2026
US and China are unlikely to fall into the Thucydides Trap, but history has another warning

US and China are unlikely to fall into the Thucydides Trap, but history has another warning

Vamsikrishna011 mins mins

For those unfamiliar, there’s a website called Jmail that has repurposed Jeffrey Epstein’s emails into a Gmail format, so it appears that one is actually browsing the late paedophile’s inbox. It is a treasure trove of nonsensical information which showed just how deeply entrenched a former high school teacher with no formal graduation degree had…

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NEW DELHI: Delhi high court judge Swarana Kanta Sharma on Thursday said that she had decided to initiate contempt proceedings against some of the discharged accused in the excise policy case for posting “vilifying” and defamatory material against her. The court was hearing a petition filed by the CBI challenging the trial court’s decision to discharge former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, his former deputy Manish Sisodia and 21 others in the liquor policy case.”It has come to my notice that extremely vilifying, extremely contemptuous, and defamatory material is being posted by some of the respondents against me and against this court and I cannot stay silent. I have decided to draw contempt proceedings against some of the respondents and some other contemnors,” ANI quoted the judge saying.During the hearing, Justice Sharma observed that several senior advocates had “graciously accepted” the court’s request to appear in the matter, but said she came across material in the meantime that she considered contemptuous. Arvind Kejriwal and other MLAs have been boycotting proceedings before Justice Sharma after she declined to recuse herself from the case despite applications alleging conflict of interest and apprehension of bias.The trial court, on February 27, discharged Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and 21 others in the liquor policy case, ruling that the prosecution’s case could not withstand judicial scrutiny and stood entirely discredited.Earlier, the court had decided to appoint senior advocates as amicus curiae to represent the respondents who were unrepresented, including AAP leaders Kejriwal, Sisodia and Durgesh Pathak.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 MediaVideosMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal TensionsBJP Questions Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Rs 60 Crore Foreign Travel Spending Claims123PhotostoriesHow these 5 Indian ice creams became among the 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams of the WorldRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? The 6-4-2 formula may be the balance your life is missing6 foods a Harvard doc eats daily to prevent colon cancer and fatty liverConstipated? NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantlyMouni Roy seperation buzz to Hansika Motwani’s divorce; Bollywood breakups that left fans stunned7 smart lighting ideas that instantly make your home feel luxurious123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav

NEW DELHI: Delhi high court judge Swarana Kanta Sharma on Thursday said that she had decided to initiate contempt proceedings against some of the discharged accused in the excise policy case for posting “vilifying” and defamatory material against her. The court was hearing a petition filed by the CBI challenging the trial court’s decision to discharge former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, his former deputy Manish Sisodia and 21 others in the liquor policy case.”It has come to my notice that extremely vilifying, extremely contemptuous, and defamatory material is being posted by some of the respondents against me and against this court and I cannot stay silent. I have decided to draw contempt proceedings against some of the respondents and some other contemnors,” ANI quoted the judge saying.During the hearing, Justice Sharma observed that several senior advocates had “graciously accepted” the court’s request to appear in the matter, but said she came across material in the meantime that she considered contemptuous. Arvind Kejriwal and other MLAs have been boycotting proceedings before Justice Sharma after she declined to recuse herself from the case despite applications alleging conflict of interest and apprehension of bias.The trial court, on February 27, discharged Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and 21 others in the liquor policy case, ruling that the prosecution’s case could not withstand judicial scrutiny and stood entirely discredited.Earlier, the court had decided to appoint senior advocates as amicus curiae to represent the respondents who were unrepresented, including AAP leaders Kejriwal, Sisodia and Durgesh Pathak.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 MediaVideosMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal TensionsBJP Questions Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Rs 60 Crore Foreign Travel Spending Claims123PhotostoriesHow these 5 Indian ice creams became among the 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams of the WorldRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? The 6-4-2 formula may be the balance your life is missing6 foods a Harvard doc eats daily to prevent colon cancer and fatty liverConstipated? NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantlyMouni Roy seperation buzz to Hansika Motwani’s divorce; Bollywood breakups that left fans stunned7 smart lighting ideas that instantly make your home feel luxurious123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Delhi high court judge Swarana Kanta Sharma on Thursday said that she had decided to initiate contempt proceedings against some of the discharged accused in the excise policy case for posting “vilifying” and defamatory material against her. The court was hearing a petition filed by the CBI challenging the trial court’s decision to…

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May 14, 2026, 19:27 IST

May 14, 2026, 19:27 IST

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Indian football team players NEW DELHI: Indian Senior men’s football team head coach Khalid Jamil announced a 28-member preliminary squad for the upcoming Unity Cup 2026 on Thursday, highlighted by the return of Mohun Bagan midfielder Anirudh Thapa. The Blue Tigers will assemble in Bengaluru for a brief training camp following the conclusion of the…

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‘The country has been watching with awe’: Sanjiv Goenka hails Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after India A call-up

‘The country has been watching with awe’: Sanjiv Goenka hails Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after India A call-up

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Sanjiv Goenka and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi NEW DELHI: The announcement of India A squad for the upcoming tri-series in Sri Lanka triggered a wave of praise on Thursday, with Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka leading the tributes for teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Ayush Badoni.The BCCI named Tilak Varma captain of the 15-member squad for…

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VISHWAS 2026: PRL opens applications for Vikram Sarabhai Post Doctoral Fellowship with Rs 1 lakh monthly support for researchers

VISHWAS 2026: PRL opens applications for Vikram Sarabhai Post Doctoral Fellowship with Rs 1 lakh monthly support for researchers

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

VISHWAS Fellowship applications open at PRL for young PhD researchers in fundamental science The Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) has invited applications for the Vikram Sarabhai Postdoctoral Fellowship, known as VISHWAS, for young researchers pursuing fundamental science with societal relevance. The fellowship has been introduced to honour the vision of Prof. Vikram Sarabhai and will support…

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‘Diamond of the season’: Alia Bhatt breaks the internet with ‘Bridgerton’-core look at Cannes 2026

‘Diamond of the season’: Alia Bhatt breaks the internet with ‘Bridgerton’-core look at Cannes 2026

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Alia Bhatt closed another striking Cannes 2026 fashion moment in a custom Tarun Tahiliani saree that mixed Indian drape traditions with a strong Regency-era mood. The actor shared pictures from the French Riviera in a corset-style ensemble and wrote, “Dearest gentle reader.. it’s time to say.” The caption drew a clear link to ‘Bridgerton’ and…

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5 snake-filled waters in Queensland surrounded by rainforest and wetlands

5 snake-filled waters in Queensland surrounded by rainforest and wetlands

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Queensland’s waterways pass through rainforests, floodplains, mangrove systems and heavily populated coastal regions, creating habitats where snakes remain active throughout much of the year. Warm temperatures and frequent rainfall support large populations of fish, frogs and small mammals, which naturally attract predators into rivers, lakes and tidal channels. Some species stay close to freshwater environments…

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. NEW DELHI: At least 117 people have lost their lives across Uttar Pradesh after relentless rain, lightning and thunderstorms battered several parts of the state over the past 36 to 48 hours. The incident has prompted the Uttar Pradesh government to announce compensation of Rs 4 lakh each for the families of the deceased.Uttar Pradesh Relief Commissioner Harikesh Bhaskar on Thursday said continuous monitoring was underway and the 24-hour Integrated Control and Command Centre remained fully operational amid the worsening weather situation.According to officials, reports of deaths, livestock losses and damage to houses have emerged from at least 19 districts including Barabanki, Bahraich, Kanpur Dehat, Basti, Sambhal, Hardoi and Unnao.Authorities said around 130 livestock animals have also died while nearly 98 houses suffered damage due to the severe weather conditions.Earlier in the day, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to immediately visit affected areas, provide relief assistance to victims and ensure speedy compensation disbursal.He also instructed all District Magistrates to prioritise rescue and relief operations and ordered districts to submit situation updates every three hours.According to officials, compensation disbursal, rescue operations and other relief measures are also being monitored through social media updates and field inspections.Meanwhile, Union Minister Jitendra Singh launched two advanced weather forecasting systems developed under the Ministry of Earth Sciences aimed at improving hyper-local and AI-enabled weather prediction services across the country.The systems include the Meteorological Department’s first Artificial Intelligence-enabled monsoon forecast model and a high-resolution rainfall forecast system for Uttar Pradesh capable of predicting rainfall at 1-km spatial resolution up to 10 days in advance.Officials said the new systems integrate data from automatic rain gauges, weather stations, Doppler radars and satellite-based rainfall datasets using AI-driven forecasting techniques to improve early warnings amid increasing extreme weather events.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 MediaVideosMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal TensionsBJP Questions Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Rs 60 Crore Foreign Travel Spending Claims123PhotostoriesRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? The 6-4-2 formula may be the balance your life is missing6 foods a Harvard doc eats daily to prevent colon cancer and fatty liverConstipated? NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantlyMouni Roy seperation buzz to Hansika Motwani’s divorce; Bollywood breakups that left fans stunned7 smart lighting ideas that instantly make your home feel luxurious5 oils you need to buy on your hair growth journey123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav

. NEW DELHI: At least 117 people have lost their lives across Uttar Pradesh after relentless rain, lightning and thunderstorms battered several parts of the state over the past 36 to 48 hours. The incident has prompted the Uttar Pradesh government to announce compensation of Rs 4 lakh each for the families of the deceased.Uttar Pradesh Relief Commissioner Harikesh Bhaskar on Thursday said continuous monitoring was underway and the 24-hour Integrated Control and Command Centre remained fully operational amid the worsening weather situation.According to officials, reports of deaths, livestock losses and damage to houses have emerged from at least 19 districts including Barabanki, Bahraich, Kanpur Dehat, Basti, Sambhal, Hardoi and Unnao.Authorities said around 130 livestock animals have also died while nearly 98 houses suffered damage due to the severe weather conditions.Earlier in the day, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to immediately visit affected areas, provide relief assistance to victims and ensure speedy compensation disbursal.He also instructed all District Magistrates to prioritise rescue and relief operations and ordered districts to submit situation updates every three hours.According to officials, compensation disbursal, rescue operations and other relief measures are also being monitored through social media updates and field inspections.Meanwhile, Union Minister Jitendra Singh launched two advanced weather forecasting systems developed under the Ministry of Earth Sciences aimed at improving hyper-local and AI-enabled weather prediction services across the country.The systems include the Meteorological Department’s first Artificial Intelligence-enabled monsoon forecast model and a high-resolution rainfall forecast system for Uttar Pradesh capable of predicting rainfall at 1-km spatial resolution up to 10 days in advance.Officials said the new systems integrate data from automatic rain gauges, weather stations, Doppler radars and satellite-based rainfall datasets using AI-driven forecasting techniques to improve early warnings amid increasing extreme weather events.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 MediaVideosMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal TensionsBJP Questions Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Rs 60 Crore Foreign Travel Spending Claims123PhotostoriesRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? The 6-4-2 formula may be the balance your life is missing6 foods a Harvard doc eats daily to prevent colon cancer and fatty liverConstipated? NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantlyMouni Roy seperation buzz to Hansika Motwani’s divorce; Bollywood breakups that left fans stunned7 smart lighting ideas that instantly make your home feel luxurious5 oils you need to buy on your hair growth journey123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: At least 117 people have lost their lives across Uttar Pradesh after relentless rain, lightning and thunderstorms battered several parts of the state over the past 36 to 48 hours. The incident has prompted the Uttar Pradesh government to announce compensation of Rs 4 lakh each for the families of the deceased.Uttar Pradesh…

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Legal dispute surrounding Michael Jackson’s estate: From the legend’s demise to Paris Jackson’s legal win

Legal dispute surrounding Michael Jackson’s estate: From the legend’s demise to Paris Jackson’s legal win

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

Michael Jackson passed away back in 2009 after suffering a cardiac arrest because of acute propofol and benzodiazepine intoxication. Following his passing, the distribution of his estate was a major topic of debate, with many wondering how it would be distributed between his family.While the singer was one of the biggest pop icons of the…

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Krunal Pandya’s ₹30 crore sea-facing Mumbai home is a luxurious 8-BHK apartment reflecting cricketing success and strong family bond

Krunal Pandya’s ₹30 crore sea-facing Mumbai home is a luxurious 8-BHK apartment reflecting cricketing success and strong family bond

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

The apartment is designed as a combined “4+4” configuration. The bungalow is spacious with private zones while sharing expansive entertainment and family areas. As per real-estate reports, the home has large living spaces, premium marble finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows and designer interiors. (PC: Instagram/krunalpandya_official) Source link

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West Bengal makes ‘Vande Mataram’ must in school morning assemblies

West Bengal makes ‘Vande Mataram’ must in school morning assemblies

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

KOLKATA: State schools have been instructed to sing ‘Vande Mataram’ in the morning assembly every day before classes start.The school education department notice to institute heads states, “The singing of ‘Vande Mataram’ during morning assembly prayers prior to the start of classes should be made mandatory so that ‘Vande Mataram’ is sung by all students…

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UAE among world’s fastest-growing billionaire hubs with 17 residents worth 2.6 billion: Forbes

UAE among world’s fastest-growing billionaire hubs with 17 residents worth $212.6 billion: Forbes

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

UAE joins leading global billionaire destinations with 17 residents on rich list / Image: file The UAE’s rise as a global destination for billionaires and high-net-worth entrepreneurs is becoming increasingly visible, and Forbes Middle East’s latest ranking offers one of the clearest snapshots yet of that transformation.According to Forbes Middle East, the UAE is now…

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NEW DELHI: The Congress finally ended Kerala’s suspense on Wednesday. Ten days after the UDF’s historic mandate, VD Satheesan was named chief minister. For a party that had just won 63 seats, with the UDF alliance winning 102, the delay was not about numbers or coalition arithmetic. It was about the Congress being unable to get out of its own way.Across the country, in West Bengal, the BJP had done the same thing in roughly 48 hours. 207 seats, a state won for the first time in the party’s history, and Suvendu Adhikari was named CM before the celebrations had properly begun (or Mamata had resigned). Similar scenes played out in Assam, where the saffron party secured a thumping mandate. There was never much doubt over the BJP’s choice for chief minister. Himanta Biswa Sarma, who has led the party to consecutive victories in the state, has also played a key role in expanding the BJP’s footprint across the North East was the obvious choice.Also read: How 2026 Assam win established ‘outsider’ Himanta as party’s next-gen leaderTwo parties achieved historic victories in the same election cycle, yet they took completely different approaches afterward. One moves as if it has done this before. The other moves like it is battling inner turmoil even after securing a historic mandate.One party treats victory as the start of control; the other often treats it as the start of negotiation.So, what does the BJP understand about winning that the Congress keeps having to relearn? The BJP’s favourite trickThe BJP’s approach to choosing chief ministers since 2014 has followed a clear pattern. When the party wins a state, it often avoids picking the obvious frontrunner. Instead, it gives the top post to someone who may not be well known outside the state but has worked at the grassroots level or closely with the local leadership.The idea behind this strategy is simple. It prevents regional strongmen from becoming too powerful. It also ensures that the victory is seen as a mandate for the party and its central leadership, not for a local leader. At the same time, it sends a message to party workers that loyalty to the organisation matters more than personal ambition.The track record backs this up. When the BJP won Haryana in 2014, it went with Manohar Lal Khattar, a first-time MLA. When it replaced Vijay Rupani in Gujarat in 2021, Bhupendra Patel, another first-term MLA, got the job. In December 2023, after sweeping Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the BJP sent a clear message about its changing leadership model. Despite delivering major victories, veterans Vasundhara Raje, Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Raman Singh were all passed over for the top job. Instead, the party chose relatively low-profile leaders, Bhajan Lal Sharma, Mohan Yadav and Vishnu Deo Sai, signalling its preference for fresh faces over entrenched regional heavyweights. Add Tripura’s Biplab Deb, Uttarakhand’s Pushkar Singh Dhami, Manipur’s N Biren Singh and Tripura’s Manik Saha to the list. These were not household names outside their states. However, they were chosen to govern quietly under the BJP’s national banner while the central leadership held the real reins.The BJP does sometimes allow strong regional leaders to emerge. Yogi Adityanath in Uttar Pradesh is the clearest example; leaders like Devendra Fadnavis, who have worked in the RSS ecosystem for decades, were also rewarded with the top post. But that usually happens after the party is already firmly established there. What Congress does insteadBefore getting into why these Assam and Bengal cases differ from the party’s normal approach, it is worth looking at what the BJP’s tightly controlled chief minister selection process is designed to avoid: prolonged public power struggles after an electoral win.That contrast was visible after Karnataka in 2023, when the Indian National Congress spent days in an open tussle between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar. Both leaders lobbied legislators, both made their case to Delhi, and the internal contest played out in full public view. Siddaramaiah eventually became chief minister, while Shivakumar was accommodated as deputy; however, their rivalry continues to make headlines even today.It was also not an isolated episode. After winning Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh in 2018, the Congress turned each victory into a drawn-out negotiation over leadership. In Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath and Jyotiraditya Scindia were locked in a bitter contest for control. In Rajasthan, the feud between Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot lasted longer than the government itself, nearly bringing it down in 2020.Now, in May 2026, the same drama played out in Kerala. The Congress-led United Democratic Front won a huge victory, taking 102 seats in the 140-member assembly, with the Congress alone winning 63. But even after such a clear mandate, the party took ten days to announce V. D. Satheesan as the state’s new chief minister, while other states that went to the polls had already named their CMs. The contest had narrowed to three names: AICC general secretary KC Venugopal, leader of the opposition in the assembly VD Satheesan and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala. Intense lobbying, competing camps and differing views within the party reportedly prolonged the process, even as other states that went to the polls had already finalised their chief ministers. Meetings between Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and senior Congress leaders continued deep into the week, while the prolonged uncertainty triggered memes, online mockery and growing frustration among party workers.When the announcement finally came, Satheesan had long appeared to be the obvious frontrunner. Himanta first, then SuvenduSo why did the BJP break from its own playbook in both Assam and Bengal?The answer is simpler than it looks: it did not, really. The playbook was never about picking unknown faces. It was about picking people who would not overshadow the central leadership or build independent power centres. Himanta Biswa Sarma is the template. He joined the BJP from the Congress in 2015 and spent years building the party’s footprint across the northeast as convener of the North East Democratic Alliance. By the time the BJP won Assam in 2021, he was the clear frontrunner for the top spot. He was the reason the party had the numbers to win. The central leadership recognised that and acted accordingly.Suvendu Adhikari’s path to the Bengal CM post follows the same logic.Adhikari’s political career began in the Congress before he moved with his family to the TMC when Mamata Banerjee formed the party in 1998. He was at the heart of the Nandigram agitation in 2007, the movement that broke the Left Front’s grip on rural Bengal and made Mamata a genuine mass leader. He won the Tamluk Lok Sabha seat in 2009 and held it in 2014. In 2016, he shifted to state politics, won Nandigram and went into Mamata’s cabinet as Transport Minister, later also handling Irrigation and Water Resources. His break with the TMC in late 2020, driven in part by his discomfort with the growing role of Mamata’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee within the party, was the single biggest jolt the TMC received before the 2021 elections. He joined the BJP at a rally in Midnapore alongside Amit Shah in December 2020.Then came the defining moments. In 2021, he contested against Mamata Banerjee in Nandigram, her chosen constituency, and defeated her by 1,956 votes. Five years later, in 2026, he did it again, this time in Bhabanipur, Mamata’s traditional stronghold, beating her by over 15,000 votes. He also won Nandigram simultaneously.The inside man advantageWhat makes Adhikari’s appointment particularly significant is not just what he did to the TMC, but what he knows about it.He spent over two decades building the Trinamool Congress from the ground up. He knows how rural networks function, how district power structures are wired, and who the key operators are at the booth level across multiple districts.This matters enormously for what comes next. The BJP’s victory in Bengal is not the end of the story; it is the beginning of a consolidation challenge. The TMC’s grassroots organisation, built painstakingly over 15 years, did not disappear overnight when it lost the polls. The party workers, the district leaders, the local strongmen who ran things under the TMC, they are all still there, and many of them are now looking at which way the wind is blowing.What’s nextIn the end, the contrast between Bengal and Kerala was not really about Suvendu Adhikari or VD Satheesan. It was about what happens inside two parties the moment victory arrives.The BJP treats power like a system. Decisions are centralised, hierarchy is clear and uncertainty is minimised. Sometimes that means surprise chief ministers. Sometimes, as in Assam and Bengal, it means recognising when a leader has become too politically important to ignore. But either way, the party moves quickly, projects authority and ensures the focus stays on the organisation.The Congress still struggles with that instinct. Even after major victories, it often appears trapped in negotiation, balancing factions instead of controlling them. What should look like confidence instead begins to resemble hesitation. The BJP treats power as something to be seized and organised; the Congress still treats it as something to be negotiated and shared. One has a system. The other has a conversation.About the AuthorVivek DubeyA digital news desk journalist at The Times of India with over two years of experience. Closely tracks foreign affairs and international politics. Fondness for precise language and clever headlines. When not editing news, he is usually refining a turn of phrase.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal TensionsBJP Questions Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Rs 60 Crore Foreign Travel Spending Claims123PhotostoriesRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? The 6-4-2 formula may be the balance your life is missing6 foods a Harvard doc eats daily to prevent colon cancer and fatty liverConstipated? NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantlyMouni Roy seperation buzz to Hansika Motwani’s divorce; Bollywood breakups that left fans stunned7 smart lighting ideas that instantly make your home feel luxurious5 oils you need to buy on your hair growth journey123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav

NEW DELHI: The Congress finally ended Kerala’s suspense on Wednesday. Ten days after the UDF’s historic mandate, VD Satheesan was named chief minister. For a party that had just won 63 seats, with the UDF alliance winning 102, the delay was not about numbers or coalition arithmetic. It was about the Congress being unable to get out of its own way.Across the country, in West Bengal, the BJP had done the same thing in roughly 48 hours. 207 seats, a state won for the first time in the party’s history, and Suvendu Adhikari was named CM before the celebrations had properly begun (or Mamata had resigned). Similar scenes played out in Assam, where the saffron party secured a thumping mandate. There was never much doubt over the BJP’s choice for chief minister. Himanta Biswa Sarma, who has led the party to consecutive victories in the state, has also played a key role in expanding the BJP’s footprint across the North East was the obvious choice.Also read: How 2026 Assam win established ‘outsider’ Himanta as party’s next-gen leaderTwo parties achieved historic victories in the same election cycle, yet they took completely different approaches afterward. One moves as if it has done this before. The other moves like it is battling inner turmoil even after securing a historic mandate.One party treats victory as the start of control; the other often treats it as the start of negotiation.So, what does the BJP understand about winning that the Congress keeps having to relearn? The BJP’s favourite trickThe BJP’s approach to choosing chief ministers since 2014 has followed a clear pattern. When the party wins a state, it often avoids picking the obvious frontrunner. Instead, it gives the top post to someone who may not be well known outside the state but has worked at the grassroots level or closely with the local leadership.The idea behind this strategy is simple. It prevents regional strongmen from becoming too powerful. It also ensures that the victory is seen as a mandate for the party and its central leadership, not for a local leader. At the same time, it sends a message to party workers that loyalty to the organisation matters more than personal ambition.The track record backs this up. When the BJP won Haryana in 2014, it went with Manohar Lal Khattar, a first-time MLA. When it replaced Vijay Rupani in Gujarat in 2021, Bhupendra Patel, another first-term MLA, got the job. In December 2023, after sweeping Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the BJP sent a clear message about its changing leadership model. Despite delivering major victories, veterans Vasundhara Raje, Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Raman Singh were all passed over for the top job. Instead, the party chose relatively low-profile leaders, Bhajan Lal Sharma, Mohan Yadav and Vishnu Deo Sai, signalling its preference for fresh faces over entrenched regional heavyweights. Add Tripura’s Biplab Deb, Uttarakhand’s Pushkar Singh Dhami, Manipur’s N Biren Singh and Tripura’s Manik Saha to the list. These were not household names outside their states. However, they were chosen to govern quietly under the BJP’s national banner while the central leadership held the real reins.The BJP does sometimes allow strong regional leaders to emerge. Yogi Adityanath in Uttar Pradesh is the clearest example; leaders like Devendra Fadnavis, who have worked in the RSS ecosystem for decades, were also rewarded with the top post. But that usually happens after the party is already firmly established there. What Congress does insteadBefore getting into why these Assam and Bengal cases differ from the party’s normal approach, it is worth looking at what the BJP’s tightly controlled chief minister selection process is designed to avoid: prolonged public power struggles after an electoral win.That contrast was visible after Karnataka in 2023, when the Indian National Congress spent days in an open tussle between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar. Both leaders lobbied legislators, both made their case to Delhi, and the internal contest played out in full public view. Siddaramaiah eventually became chief minister, while Shivakumar was accommodated as deputy; however, their rivalry continues to make headlines even today.It was also not an isolated episode. After winning Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh in 2018, the Congress turned each victory into a drawn-out negotiation over leadership. In Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath and Jyotiraditya Scindia were locked in a bitter contest for control. In Rajasthan, the feud between Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot lasted longer than the government itself, nearly bringing it down in 2020.Now, in May 2026, the same drama played out in Kerala. The Congress-led United Democratic Front won a huge victory, taking 102 seats in the 140-member assembly, with the Congress alone winning 63. But even after such a clear mandate, the party took ten days to announce V. D. Satheesan as the state’s new chief minister, while other states that went to the polls had already named their CMs. The contest had narrowed to three names: AICC general secretary KC Venugopal, leader of the opposition in the assembly VD Satheesan and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala. Intense lobbying, competing camps and differing views within the party reportedly prolonged the process, even as other states that went to the polls had already finalised their chief ministers. Meetings between Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and senior Congress leaders continued deep into the week, while the prolonged uncertainty triggered memes, online mockery and growing frustration among party workers.When the announcement finally came, Satheesan had long appeared to be the obvious frontrunner. Himanta first, then SuvenduSo why did the BJP break from its own playbook in both Assam and Bengal?The answer is simpler than it looks: it did not, really. The playbook was never about picking unknown faces. It was about picking people who would not overshadow the central leadership or build independent power centres. Himanta Biswa Sarma is the template. He joined the BJP from the Congress in 2015 and spent years building the party’s footprint across the northeast as convener of the North East Democratic Alliance. By the time the BJP won Assam in 2021, he was the clear frontrunner for the top spot. He was the reason the party had the numbers to win. The central leadership recognised that and acted accordingly.Suvendu Adhikari’s path to the Bengal CM post follows the same logic.Adhikari’s political career began in the Congress before he moved with his family to the TMC when Mamata Banerjee formed the party in 1998. He was at the heart of the Nandigram agitation in 2007, the movement that broke the Left Front’s grip on rural Bengal and made Mamata a genuine mass leader. He won the Tamluk Lok Sabha seat in 2009 and held it in 2014. In 2016, he shifted to state politics, won Nandigram and went into Mamata’s cabinet as Transport Minister, later also handling Irrigation and Water Resources. His break with the TMC in late 2020, driven in part by his discomfort with the growing role of Mamata’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee within the party, was the single biggest jolt the TMC received before the 2021 elections. He joined the BJP at a rally in Midnapore alongside Amit Shah in December 2020.Then came the defining moments. In 2021, he contested against Mamata Banerjee in Nandigram, her chosen constituency, and defeated her by 1,956 votes. Five years later, in 2026, he did it again, this time in Bhabanipur, Mamata’s traditional stronghold, beating her by over 15,000 votes. He also won Nandigram simultaneously.The inside man advantageWhat makes Adhikari’s appointment particularly significant is not just what he did to the TMC, but what he knows about it.He spent over two decades building the Trinamool Congress from the ground up. He knows how rural networks function, how district power structures are wired, and who the key operators are at the booth level across multiple districts.This matters enormously for what comes next. The BJP’s victory in Bengal is not the end of the story; it is the beginning of a consolidation challenge. The TMC’s grassroots organisation, built painstakingly over 15 years, did not disappear overnight when it lost the polls. The party workers, the district leaders, the local strongmen who ran things under the TMC, they are all still there, and many of them are now looking at which way the wind is blowing.What’s nextIn the end, the contrast between Bengal and Kerala was not really about Suvendu Adhikari or VD Satheesan. It was about what happens inside two parties the moment victory arrives.The BJP treats power like a system. Decisions are centralised, hierarchy is clear and uncertainty is minimised. Sometimes that means surprise chief ministers. Sometimes, as in Assam and Bengal, it means recognising when a leader has become too politically important to ignore. But either way, the party moves quickly, projects authority and ensures the focus stays on the organisation.The Congress still struggles with that instinct. Even after major victories, it often appears trapped in negotiation, balancing factions instead of controlling them. What should look like confidence instead begins to resemble hesitation. The BJP treats power as something to be seized and organised; the Congress still treats it as something to be negotiated and shared. One has a system. The other has a conversation.About the AuthorVivek DubeyA digital news desk journalist at The Times of India with over two years of experience. Closely tracks foreign affairs and international politics. Fondness for precise language and clever headlines. When not editing news, he is usually refining a turn of phrase.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal TensionsBJP Questions Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Rs 60 Crore Foreign Travel Spending Claims123PhotostoriesRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? The 6-4-2 formula may be the balance your life is missing6 foods a Harvard doc eats daily to prevent colon cancer and fatty liverConstipated? NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantlyMouni Roy seperation buzz to Hansika Motwani’s divorce; Bollywood breakups that left fans stunned7 smart lighting ideas that instantly make your home feel luxurious5 oils you need to buy on your hair growth journey123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav

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NEW DELHI: The Congress finally ended Kerala’s suspense on Wednesday. Ten days after the UDF’s historic mandate, VD Satheesan was named chief minister. For a party that had just won 63 seats, with the UDF alliance winning 102, the delay was not about numbers or coalition arithmetic. It was about the Congress being unable to…

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