May 18, 2026
‘Bhooth Bangla’ box office collection day 5 [LIVE]: Akshay Kumar starrer eyes Rs. 100 crore domestic milestone

‘Bhooth Bangla’ box office collection day 5 [LIVE]: Akshay Kumar starrer eyes Rs. 100 crore domestic milestone

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

The Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan reunion horror-comedy ‘Bhooth Bangla’ is showing encouraging signs of resilience as it navigates its first midweek stretch. On Day 6, Wednesday, April 23, 2026, the film is building on a strong Day 5 recovery that saw collections jump 18.5% to Rs. 8.00 crore net, pushing the cumulative India net to…

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Banks and financial institutions in America and Europe, Anthropic may have just ‘failed in its promise to protect’ you as hackers claim …

Banks and financial institutions in America and Europe, Anthropic may have just ‘failed in its promise to protect’ you as hackers claim …

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

A small group of unauthorized users has gained access to Anthropic’s new Mythos AI model, says a Bloomberg report. The AI model was announced by the company earlier this month. In a blog post, the company announced that it will not publicly release the model citing fears that it could de-stabilize the cybersecurity world. Anthropic…

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ANI file photo NEW DELHI: Vice president C P Radhakrishnan on Wednesday criticised Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over his “terrorist” remarks targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha sometimes fails to distinguish between “black and white” or between “terror and terror to terrorist.”’Sometimes Kharge ji does not differentiate between the black and white, or between terrorists…and terror to terrorists,” the vice president said while addressing a gathering where Kharge was also present.The vice president was speaking at the Amrit Mahotsava celebration of Dr Basavalinga Pattadevaru Mahaswamiji of Hiremath Samsthan at Sri Channabasavashram in Bhalki, Bidar. The vice president’s remarks came a day after Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, during the final leg of the Tamil Nadu election campaign, criticised the AIADMK for aligning with the BJP and targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kharge allegedly referred to PM Modi as a “terrorist who does not believe in equality”.Responding to the controversy, Kharge said, “I clarified my statement in Chennai.”Earlier today, a BJP delegation, including parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman and union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, met the Election Commission, seeking action against Kharge over his remarks.Stating that no political party had ever shown such a level of disrespect as the Congress, Kiren Rijiju said the delegation urged the EC to take “strict action” and called on the Congress president to apologise to the country.”Today, a high level delegation of BJP met with the Election Commission. We have met the EC with grief and anger because normally we meet the EC for election process related work but today our delegation went for the derogatory remarks made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is not a BJP issue but an issue for the entire nation. Calling the PM of the country, a terrorist, you can understand the level of low the Congress has touched in terms of respecting an individual and the democracy. I don’t think any political party has ever used such insulting remarks against a PM,” Rijiju stated, as cited by 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 MediaVideosFast Fashion Explained: The Hidden Cost of Cheap Clothes Will Shock YouMumbai Woman Blasts BJP Minister Over Traffic Chaos Caused By ‘Nari Shakti’ Rally: ‘Get Out of Here’How Upgraded L-70 Bofors Guns Emerged As India’s Key Defence Against Pakistan’s Drone WarfareRajnath Singh Hints At India’s Future Role In West Asia Peace EffortsUS Woman Alleges Sexual Assault At Karnataka Homestay, Owner Also ArrestedIndian Army Showcases Amphibious Combat Power in Bhuj; Creek Area Dominance on DisplayPahalgam Terror Attack Anniversary: Family Recalls Heroism Of Adil ShahAllahabad HC Judge Recuses Himself From Rahul Gandhi’s Dual Citizenship CaseCong Submits Breach of Privilege Against PM Modi; Trump Pushes Iran Talks Amid Ceasefire TensionsIndian Army Sends Strong Warning to Terror Groups Ahead of Pahalgam Terror Attack Anniversary123PhotostoriesHow to start a terrace garden: 7 Simple tipsInside Ajay Jadeja, the ‘King of Jamnagar’s’, royal residence: A palace-style home shaped by family traditions and cricketing glory6 signs your child feels emotionally safe with youAnkur Warikoo shares 5 career risks worth taking over playing it safe6 small activities that keep your brain calm even on the busiest daysEarth Day 2026: 10 countries leading in renewable energy, and why travellers should visit them onceAnimals that sleep the least and how they survive on minimal restHow to make Chef Sanjeev Kapoor-Style Paneer Do Pyaza at home5 ways to blend heritage elements into modern homesThings in your home you should probably get rid of123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsUK Electricity PriceIPL Orange Cap

ANI file photo NEW DELHI: Vice president C P Radhakrishnan on Wednesday criticised Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over his “terrorist” remarks targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha sometimes fails to distinguish between “black and white” or between “terror and terror to terrorist.”’Sometimes Kharge ji does not differentiate between the black and white, or between terrorists…and terror to terrorists,” the vice president said while addressing a gathering where Kharge was also present.The vice president was speaking at the Amrit Mahotsava celebration of Dr Basavalinga Pattadevaru Mahaswamiji of Hiremath Samsthan at Sri Channabasavashram in Bhalki, Bidar. The vice president’s remarks came a day after Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, during the final leg of the Tamil Nadu election campaign, criticised the AIADMK for aligning with the BJP and targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kharge allegedly referred to PM Modi as a “terrorist who does not believe in equality”.Responding to the controversy, Kharge said, “I clarified my statement in Chennai.”Earlier today, a BJP delegation, including parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman and union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, met the Election Commission, seeking action against Kharge over his remarks.Stating that no political party had ever shown such a level of disrespect as the Congress, Kiren Rijiju said the delegation urged the EC to take “strict action” and called on the Congress president to apologise to the country.”Today, a high level delegation of BJP met with the Election Commission. We have met the EC with grief and anger because normally we meet the EC for election process related work but today our delegation went for the derogatory remarks made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is not a BJP issue but an issue for the entire nation. Calling the PM of the country, a terrorist, you can understand the level of low the Congress has touched in terms of respecting an individual and the democracy. I don’t think any political party has ever used such insulting remarks against a PM,” Rijiju stated, as cited by 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 MediaVideosFast Fashion Explained: The Hidden Cost of Cheap Clothes Will Shock YouMumbai Woman Blasts BJP Minister Over Traffic Chaos Caused By ‘Nari Shakti’ Rally: ‘Get Out of Here’How Upgraded L-70 Bofors Guns Emerged As India’s Key Defence Against Pakistan’s Drone WarfareRajnath Singh Hints At India’s Future Role In West Asia Peace EffortsUS Woman Alleges Sexual Assault At Karnataka Homestay, Owner Also ArrestedIndian Army Showcases Amphibious Combat Power in Bhuj; Creek Area Dominance on DisplayPahalgam Terror Attack Anniversary: Family Recalls Heroism Of Adil ShahAllahabad HC Judge Recuses Himself From Rahul Gandhi’s Dual Citizenship CaseCong Submits Breach of Privilege Against PM Modi; Trump Pushes Iran Talks Amid Ceasefire TensionsIndian Army Sends Strong Warning to Terror Groups Ahead of Pahalgam Terror Attack Anniversary123PhotostoriesHow to start a terrace garden: 7 Simple tipsInside Ajay Jadeja, the ‘King of Jamnagar’s’, royal residence: A palace-style home shaped by family traditions and cricketing glory6 signs your child feels emotionally safe with youAnkur Warikoo shares 5 career risks worth taking over playing it safe6 small activities that keep your brain calm even on the busiest daysEarth Day 2026: 10 countries leading in renewable energy, and why travellers should visit them onceAnimals that sleep the least and how they survive on minimal restHow to make Chef Sanjeev Kapoor-Style Paneer Do Pyaza at home5 ways to blend heritage elements into modern homesThings in your home you should probably get rid of123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsUK Electricity PriceIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Vice president C P Radhakrishnan on Wednesday criticised Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over his “terrorist” remarks targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha sometimes fails to distinguish between “black and white” or between “terror and terror to terrorist.”‘Sometimes Kharge ji does not differentiate between the black…

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‘Have to give Abhishek Sharma leeway’: SRH’s Varun Aaron explains why

‘Have to give Abhishek Sharma leeway’: SRH’s Varun Aaron explains why

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Abhishek Sharma walks back to pavilion. (ANI Photo) NEW DELHI: Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling coach Varun Aaron has underlined the importance of patience with high-impact players, insisting that Abhishek Sharma deserved “leeway” during his lean phase before delivering a stunning unbeaten 135 against Delhi Capitals.Abhishek’s 68-ball masterclass powered SRH to a commanding 47-run win,…

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‘The Deb’ star Charlotte MacInnes to testify in Rebel Wilson vs Amanda Ghost court case – Report

‘The Deb’ star Charlotte MacInnes to testify in Rebel Wilson vs Amanda Ghost court case – Report

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

TRIGGER WARNING: This article includes references to sexual abuse.Rebel Wilson and Amanda Ghost’s court case proceedings have been taking headlines recently, ever since the news of the defamation case was revealed to the public. Famed actress and director Rebel Wilson and Amanda Ghost, a renowned pop sensation, are at the forefront of a legal defamation…

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80,000-year-old DNA from Stajnia Cave reveals the oldest Neanderthal group in Central-Eastern Europe

80,000-year-old DNA from Stajnia Cave reveals the oldest Neanderthal group in Central-Eastern Europe

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Neanderthals are also continuing their own journey through history, and the latest scientific study conducted at Stajnia Cave in Poland is bringing an exciting new dimension to it. For the first time, scientists have been able to reconstruct what appears to be the oldest Neanderthal population in Central-Eastern Europe, thereby giving us more information about…

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‘Fighting one of the most difficult battles’: Kejriwal extends support to Mamata ahead of Bengal polls

‘Fighting one of the most difficult battles’: Kejriwal extends support to Mamata ahead of Bengal polls

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday extended support to TMC chief and West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, saying he had expressed “complete solidarity and support” during a phone call with her.In a post on X, Kejriwal said, “Just spoke to Mamta didi on phone. Expressed complete solidarity and support. She is fighting one…

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‘Ceasefire not open-ended’: Trump gives Iran ‘another three to five days’ to come up with unified proposal

‘Ceasefire not open-ended’: Trump gives Iran ‘another three to five days’ to come up with unified proposal

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

US President Donald Trump has reportedly given Iran a limited window of “three to five days” to come up with a unified proposal for negotiations, with American officials indicating the current ceasefire extension will not continue indefinitely, according to an Axios report citing three US officials.The report said Trump’s move amounts to a short deadline…

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Mamata Banerjee and Rahul Gandhi (File photo/PTI) On May 2, 2021, Rahul Gandhi congratulated Mamata Banerjee and the people of West Bengal for “soundly defeating the BJP.”“I’m happy to congratulate Mamata ji and the people of West Bengal for soundly defeating the BJP,” he wrote on Twitter (now called X).However, the irony was hard to miss. While the BJP had indeed been kept out of power, it recorded its strongest-ever performance in the state — winning 77 seats, up from just three in 2016 — and firmly established itself as the principal challenger to the TMC. West Bengal assembly elections 2021 resultsCongress, by contrast, failed to open its account.Five years later, as Banerjee seeks a fourth consecutive term and the BJP eyes its maiden government in West Bengal, Congress finds itself out of the race and staring at a no-win situation: a Mamata victory could position her as a frontrunner for the opposition’s prime ministerial face in 2029, while a BJP triumph would add a major state to its kitty and further strengthen its momentum ahead of the general election.Which of the two outcomes would the grand old party prefer?Mamata Banerjee’s riseA former Congress leader, Banerjee founded the TMC in January 1998, and the party has since been part of governments at the Centre led by both the Congress and the BJP. Now an on-and-off ally of the Congress, she ended the Left Front’s 34-year rule in West Bengal in 2011 and secured two further terms, firmly establishing herself as one of India’s most formidable regional leaders. West Bengal CMs in last 50 yearsAfter a setback in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, when the BJP won 18 of West Bengal’s 42 constituencies, Banerjee staged a strong comeback just two years later, leading the Trinamool to a third consecutive term.The optics of TMC’s victory, despite an aggressive BJP campaign led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah, combined with Banerjee’s decision to take on her former aide Suvendu Adhikari in his stronghold — where she lost narrowly — burnished her credentials. Mamata Banerjee QuoteA fourth term would all but put her firmly in contention to be the opposition’s prime ministerial face for 2029.BJP’s emergence as principal challenger to TMCThe BJP did not find immediate success in West Bengal after Modi became prime minister in May 2014, winning just two Lok Sabha seats that year and only three constituencies in the assembly polls two years later.That changed in 2019, when it won 303 Lok Sabha seats, including 18 from West Bengal.In 2021, although the BJP fell well short of its target of 200 seats, it emerged as the TMC’s principal challenger. BJP’s seat surge in BengalNationally, too, despite no longer enjoying a majority of its own, the saffron party, with 240 Lok Sabha MPs—more than the combined opposition—remains on course for a fourth term, reinforcing the perception of sustained national dominance.Congress’ decline in West Bengal—and beyondIn February, Congress unilaterally ended its alliance with the Left Front and announced it would go it alone in West Bengal. Despite its rich political history, the party has not had a chief minister in the state since 1977, when its three-decade run in power, dating back to 1947, came to an end. Congress’ declining arc in BengalIts dominance in the Lok Sabha from West Bengal has been far more limited. The last time Congress reached double digits in the state was in 1984, when it won 16 seats as part of its nationwide sweep of 414 seats.Since then, Congress has not secured a majority on its own at the Centre. In the last three Lok Sabha elections, it failed to cross the 100-seat mark. It is currently in power in just three states—Karnataka, Telangana and Himachal Pradesh. The removal of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a staunch Mamata critic, by the Congress as its Bengal unit chief, was also seen by many as the party “capitulating” to the TMC supremo. Chowdhury had held the Baharampur Lok Sabha seat—where Muslims make up roughly half the electorate—continuously since 1999. In the 2024 general elections, Banerjee nominated former cricketer Yusuf Pathan, a Gujarat native, who went on to unseat Chowdhury. Adhir Ranjan ChowdhuryCongress’ Rahul dilemma: Can’t win with him, can’t do without himCongress contested the 2014, 2019, and 2024 general elections under Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, albeit without formally projecting him as its prime ministerial face. The 2019 defeat was chastening in both magnitude and context, coming under his direct leadership as party president and soon after he oversaw assembly victories in three Hindi heartland states in December 2018. Although he resigned as party chief in July 2019, Gandhi has continued to be the party’s most prominent face and principal decision-maker. Rahul Gandhi careerCongress’ 2024 resurgence—along with that of the broader opposition—was widely credited to Gandhi’s two “Bharat Jodo” pan-India marches, which many believe contributed to a noticeable shift in public perception of him. He was subsequently made leader of the opposition, the first since 2014. Rahul Gandhi careerHowever, what followed was a series of electoral reverses in the state assembly elections. He subsequently alleged irregularities by the Election Commission, accusing it of bias towards the BJP and holding multiple press conferences on the issue, but the setbacks continued.According to political observers, what hurts Gandhi is that he has never held public office—even when his own party was in power from 2004 to 2014—along with Congress’ poor electoral record under him, his frequent foreign trips, and a tendency to persist with issues even when they fail to resonate with voters—raising persistent questions about his effectiveness as a national challenger.Leadership question within INDIA blocThe INDIA bloc, formed in July 2023, brought together Congress and several regional parties opposed to the BJP under one umbrella. With the grand old party as its de facto anchor, the alliance avoided projecting a prime ministerial face, and managed to bring the BJP below the majority mark.Yet, the leadership question persisted, particularly after Congress’s successive defeats in state elections following the general election.In December 2024, following the defeat of the Maha Vikas Aghadi—of which Congress is a constituent—in Maharashtra, Banerjee expressed her willingness to lead the INDIA grouping and was promptly endorsed by senior leaders such as Lalu Prasad Yadav and Sharad Pawar. Mamata Banerjee quote Sharad Pawar quoteFor its part, Congress has repeatedly avoided endorsing Banerjee, instead emphasising the need to keep the alliance united. This includes party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, whose name was proposed as a prime ministerial candidate by both Banerjee and AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal in December 2023. Mallikarjun Kharge quoteGandhi has also constantly played down suggestions that he should be projected as a contender, instead emphasising the need for the bloc to remain united to “save democracy” in what he repeatedly describes as an “ideological battle.” Rahul Gandhi quoteHowever, in February, senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar explicitly endorsed Banerjee, calling her the “leader of the alliance.” He also said the INDIA bloc “belongs to the smaller parties” and that Gandhi should “let them handle it.” Mani Shankar Aiyar quoteThis, in turn, brings the leadership question within the INDIA bloc into focus.What Bengal means for each playerThe TMC and the BJP are both pushing hard to win West Bengal, each driven by their own distinct set of reason. For the Trinamool, retaining the state is crucial, as it has little presence beyond it. A defeat may not end Banerjee’s political career, but it would significantly dent her national ambitions. TMC SWOTThe BJP’s objectives are both ideological and political—ideological because Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of its predecessor, the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, was born here; and political because a victory would mark a major expansion of its footprint and strengthen its position ahead of the 2029 elections. BJP SWOTFor Congress, largely out of the race, the contest offers an opportunity to rebuild and improve its position in the state, but does little to alter the bigger picture. Congress SWOTA state contest, a national question for CongressCongress’s current spell out of power at the Centre is its longest ever, and the first to last a decade or more. Still, it remains the only national alternative to the BJP.Yet, West Bengal presents a unique dilemma for Congress—one that would either further strengthen its national rival’s prospects for 2029 or give a regional rival the platform to project itself for a larger, national role.Voting for the state’s 294 assembly constituencies will be held in two phases. In the first phase on Thursday, 152 seats will go to the polls, while the remaining 142 will vote on April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.About the AuthorKaran ManralKaran Manral is a journalist at the Times of India. He covers politics, social issues, and international affairs, exploring stories that affect people’s everyday lives. He also writes explainers to make these stories easier for readers to follow.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosHow Upgraded L-70 Bofors Guns Emerged As India’s Key Defence Against Pakistan’s Drone WarfareRajnath Singh Hints At India’s Future Role In West Asia Peace EffortsUS Woman Alleges Sexual Assault At Karnataka Homestay, Owner Also ArrestedIndian Army Showcases Amphibious Combat Power in Bhuj; Creek Area Dominance on DisplayPahalgam Terror Attack Anniversary: Family Recalls Heroism Of Adil ShahAllahabad HC Judge Recuses Himself From Rahul Gandhi’s Dual Citizenship CaseCong Submits Breach of Privilege Against PM Modi; Trump Pushes Iran Talks Amid Ceasefire TensionsIndian Army Sends Strong Warning to Terror Groups Ahead of Pahalgam Terror Attack AnniversaryPappu Yadav Faces Notice After Claiming 90% Women Need ‘Leaders’ Bedrooms’ To Enter PoliticsNida Khan Faces Arrest After Nashik Court Rejects Interim Bail In BPO Case123PhotostoriesHow to start a terrace garden: 7 Simple tipsInside Ajay Jadeja, the ‘King of Jamnagar’s’, royal residence: A palace-style home shaped by family traditions and cricketing glory6 signs your child feels emotionally safe with you6 small activities that keep your brain calm even on the busiest daysEarth Day 2026: 10 countries leading in renewable energy, and why travellers should visit them onceAnimals that sleep the least and how they survive on minimal restHow to make Chef Sanjeev Kapoor-Style Paneer Do Pyaza at home5 ways to blend heritage elements into modern homesThings in your home you should probably get rid of5 signs your parenting is working even when it doesn’t feel like it123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsUK Electricity PriceIPL Orange Cap

Mamata Banerjee and Rahul Gandhi (File photo/PTI) On May 2, 2021, Rahul Gandhi congratulated Mamata Banerjee and the people of West Bengal for “soundly defeating the BJP.”“I’m happy to congratulate Mamata ji and the people of West Bengal for soundly defeating the BJP,” he wrote on Twitter (now called X).However, the irony was hard to miss. While the BJP had indeed been kept out of power, it recorded its strongest-ever performance in the state — winning 77 seats, up from just three in 2016 — and firmly established itself as the principal challenger to the TMC. West Bengal assembly elections 2021 resultsCongress, by contrast, failed to open its account.Five years later, as Banerjee seeks a fourth consecutive term and the BJP eyes its maiden government in West Bengal, Congress finds itself out of the race and staring at a no-win situation: a Mamata victory could position her as a frontrunner for the opposition’s prime ministerial face in 2029, while a BJP triumph would add a major state to its kitty and further strengthen its momentum ahead of the general election.Which of the two outcomes would the grand old party prefer?Mamata Banerjee’s riseA former Congress leader, Banerjee founded the TMC in January 1998, and the party has since been part of governments at the Centre led by both the Congress and the BJP. Now an on-and-off ally of the Congress, she ended the Left Front’s 34-year rule in West Bengal in 2011 and secured two further terms, firmly establishing herself as one of India’s most formidable regional leaders. West Bengal CMs in last 50 yearsAfter a setback in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, when the BJP won 18 of West Bengal’s 42 constituencies, Banerjee staged a strong comeback just two years later, leading the Trinamool to a third consecutive term.The optics of TMC’s victory, despite an aggressive BJP campaign led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah, combined with Banerjee’s decision to take on her former aide Suvendu Adhikari in his stronghold — where she lost narrowly — burnished her credentials. Mamata Banerjee QuoteA fourth term would all but put her firmly in contention to be the opposition’s prime ministerial face for 2029.BJP’s emergence as principal challenger to TMCThe BJP did not find immediate success in West Bengal after Modi became prime minister in May 2014, winning just two Lok Sabha seats that year and only three constituencies in the assembly polls two years later.That changed in 2019, when it won 303 Lok Sabha seats, including 18 from West Bengal.In 2021, although the BJP fell well short of its target of 200 seats, it emerged as the TMC’s principal challenger. BJP’s seat surge in BengalNationally, too, despite no longer enjoying a majority of its own, the saffron party, with 240 Lok Sabha MPs—more than the combined opposition—remains on course for a fourth term, reinforcing the perception of sustained national dominance.Congress’ decline in West Bengal—and beyondIn February, Congress unilaterally ended its alliance with the Left Front and announced it would go it alone in West Bengal. Despite its rich political history, the party has not had a chief minister in the state since 1977, when its three-decade run in power, dating back to 1947, came to an end. Congress’ declining arc in BengalIts dominance in the Lok Sabha from West Bengal has been far more limited. The last time Congress reached double digits in the state was in 1984, when it won 16 seats as part of its nationwide sweep of 414 seats.Since then, Congress has not secured a majority on its own at the Centre. In the last three Lok Sabha elections, it failed to cross the 100-seat mark. It is currently in power in just three states—Karnataka, Telangana and Himachal Pradesh. The removal of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a staunch Mamata critic, by the Congress as its Bengal unit chief, was also seen by many as the party “capitulating” to the TMC supremo. Chowdhury had held the Baharampur Lok Sabha seat—where Muslims make up roughly half the electorate—continuously since 1999. In the 2024 general elections, Banerjee nominated former cricketer Yusuf Pathan, a Gujarat native, who went on to unseat Chowdhury. Adhir Ranjan ChowdhuryCongress’ Rahul dilemma: Can’t win with him, can’t do without himCongress contested the 2014, 2019, and 2024 general elections under Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, albeit without formally projecting him as its prime ministerial face. The 2019 defeat was chastening in both magnitude and context, coming under his direct leadership as party president and soon after he oversaw assembly victories in three Hindi heartland states in December 2018. Although he resigned as party chief in July 2019, Gandhi has continued to be the party’s most prominent face and principal decision-maker. Rahul Gandhi careerCongress’ 2024 resurgence—along with that of the broader opposition—was widely credited to Gandhi’s two “Bharat Jodo” pan-India marches, which many believe contributed to a noticeable shift in public perception of him. He was subsequently made leader of the opposition, the first since 2014. Rahul Gandhi careerHowever, what followed was a series of electoral reverses in the state assembly elections. He subsequently alleged irregularities by the Election Commission, accusing it of bias towards the BJP and holding multiple press conferences on the issue, but the setbacks continued.According to political observers, what hurts Gandhi is that he has never held public office—even when his own party was in power from 2004 to 2014—along with Congress’ poor electoral record under him, his frequent foreign trips, and a tendency to persist with issues even when they fail to resonate with voters—raising persistent questions about his effectiveness as a national challenger.Leadership question within INDIA blocThe INDIA bloc, formed in July 2023, brought together Congress and several regional parties opposed to the BJP under one umbrella. With the grand old party as its de facto anchor, the alliance avoided projecting a prime ministerial face, and managed to bring the BJP below the majority mark.Yet, the leadership question persisted, particularly after Congress’s successive defeats in state elections following the general election.In December 2024, following the defeat of the Maha Vikas Aghadi—of which Congress is a constituent—in Maharashtra, Banerjee expressed her willingness to lead the INDIA grouping and was promptly endorsed by senior leaders such as Lalu Prasad Yadav and Sharad Pawar. Mamata Banerjee quote Sharad Pawar quoteFor its part, Congress has repeatedly avoided endorsing Banerjee, instead emphasising the need to keep the alliance united. This includes party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, whose name was proposed as a prime ministerial candidate by both Banerjee and AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal in December 2023. Mallikarjun Kharge quoteGandhi has also constantly played down suggestions that he should be projected as a contender, instead emphasising the need for the bloc to remain united to “save democracy” in what he repeatedly describes as an “ideological battle.” Rahul Gandhi quoteHowever, in February, senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar explicitly endorsed Banerjee, calling her the “leader of the alliance.” He also said the INDIA bloc “belongs to the smaller parties” and that Gandhi should “let them handle it.” Mani Shankar Aiyar quoteThis, in turn, brings the leadership question within the INDIA bloc into focus.What Bengal means for each playerThe TMC and the BJP are both pushing hard to win West Bengal, each driven by their own distinct set of reason. For the Trinamool, retaining the state is crucial, as it has little presence beyond it. A defeat may not end Banerjee’s political career, but it would significantly dent her national ambitions. TMC SWOTThe BJP’s objectives are both ideological and political—ideological because Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of its predecessor, the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, was born here; and political because a victory would mark a major expansion of its footprint and strengthen its position ahead of the 2029 elections. BJP SWOTFor Congress, largely out of the race, the contest offers an opportunity to rebuild and improve its position in the state, but does little to alter the bigger picture. Congress SWOTA state contest, a national question for CongressCongress’s current spell out of power at the Centre is its longest ever, and the first to last a decade or more. Still, it remains the only national alternative to the BJP.Yet, West Bengal presents a unique dilemma for Congress—one that would either further strengthen its national rival’s prospects for 2029 or give a regional rival the platform to project itself for a larger, national role.Voting for the state’s 294 assembly constituencies will be held in two phases. In the first phase on Thursday, 152 seats will go to the polls, while the remaining 142 will vote on April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4.About the AuthorKaran ManralKaran Manral is a journalist at the Times of India. He covers politics, social issues, and international affairs, exploring stories that affect people’s everyday lives. He also writes explainers to make these stories easier for readers to follow.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosHow Upgraded L-70 Bofors Guns Emerged As India’s Key Defence Against Pakistan’s Drone WarfareRajnath Singh Hints At India’s Future Role In West Asia Peace EffortsUS Woman Alleges Sexual Assault At Karnataka Homestay, Owner Also ArrestedIndian Army Showcases Amphibious Combat Power in Bhuj; Creek Area Dominance on DisplayPahalgam Terror Attack Anniversary: Family Recalls Heroism Of Adil ShahAllahabad HC Judge Recuses Himself From Rahul Gandhi’s Dual Citizenship CaseCong Submits Breach of Privilege Against PM Modi; Trump Pushes Iran Talks Amid Ceasefire TensionsIndian Army Sends Strong Warning to Terror Groups Ahead of Pahalgam Terror Attack AnniversaryPappu Yadav Faces Notice After Claiming 90% Women Need ‘Leaders’ Bedrooms’ To Enter PoliticsNida Khan Faces Arrest After Nashik Court Rejects Interim Bail In BPO Case123PhotostoriesHow to start a terrace garden: 7 Simple tipsInside Ajay Jadeja, the ‘King of Jamnagar’s’, royal residence: A palace-style home shaped by family traditions and cricketing glory6 signs your child feels emotionally safe with you6 small activities that keep your brain calm even on the busiest daysEarth Day 2026: 10 countries leading in renewable energy, and why travellers should visit them onceAnimals that sleep the least and how they survive on minimal restHow to make Chef Sanjeev Kapoor-Style Paneer Do Pyaza at home5 ways to blend heritage elements into modern homesThings in your home you should probably get rid of5 signs your parenting is working even when it doesn’t feel like it123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026Rahul gandhi rallyBengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingLSG vs RR IPL MatchMohandas PaiSupreme CourtMalegaon Blast CaseMeerut Blue Drum Murder CaseBareilly Suicide NewsTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Murder NewsUK Electricity PriceIPL Orange Cap

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Mamata Banerjee and Rahul Gandhi (File photo/PTI) On May 2, 2021, Rahul Gandhi congratulated Mamata Banerjee and the people of West Bengal for “soundly defeating the BJP.”“I’m happy to congratulate Mamata ji and the people of West Bengal for soundly defeating the BJP,” he wrote on Twitter (now called X).However, the irony was hard to…

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Telugu filmmaker Tripuraneni Chittibabu passes away at 71 due to cardiac arrest; Tollywood mourns the loss of ‘Raitu Bharatham’ star | Telugu Movie News

Telugu filmmaker Tripuraneni Chittibabu passes away at 71 due to cardiac arrest; Tollywood mourns the loss of ‘Raitu Bharatham’ star | Telugu Movie News

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Veteran filmmaker, producer, and actor Tripuraneni Chittibabu passed away at the age of 71. He breathed his last on Wednesday night at a private hospital in Hyderabad after suffering a heart attack. His death has left the Telugu film world in a state of shock and has brought sorrow to millions of his fans and…

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“Please make Pluto a planet again”: 10-year-old’s letter gets a surprising reply from NASA chief |

“Please make Pluto a planet again”: 10-year-old’s letter gets a surprising reply from NASA chief |

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A handwritten note from a 10-year-old has done what years of classroom lessons, documentaries and online arguments have failed to do: it has brought Pluto back into the spotlight. In a letter that is equal parts earnest, curious and disarmingly polite, Kaela asked NASA to “make Pluto a planet again,” and the internet responded exactly…

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Grand Canyon mystery solved? Shocking new study claims a ‘lost ancient lake’ may have carved one of Earth’s greatest natural wonders

Grand Canyon mystery solved? Shocking new study claims a ‘lost ancient lake’ may have carved one of Earth’s greatest natural wonders

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The Grand Canyon has long been seen as one of the most striking natural landscapes on Earth, yet its origins remain surprisingly unsettled. Scientists broadly agree that the Colorado River played a central role in carving the canyon millions of years ago as reported by USGS. Even so, the exact sequence of events has never…

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