VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html IPL 2026: PBKS unleash Lockie Ferguson as pace weapon; RR opt to bowl Rani Kapur reacts after SC urges mediation in legal battle with Priya Kapur over Sunjay Kapur’s Rs 30,000 crore estate: ‘It’s about restoring fairness’ The viral “towel hack” for blackheads: Genius or skin sabotage? | Inside Elon Musk–Sam Altman court clash with $134 billion at stake: The claims and counterclaims | Tamil Nadu exit polls 2026: Date, time, when and where to watch exit polls The stage is set for a high-stakes electoral showdown as results emerge on May 4 for the Tamil Nadu assembly elections. All eyes are on the fate of 234 constituencies hangs in the balance following the conclusion of polling on April 23.With counting yet to take place, attention now shifts to exit polls, which are expected to offer early indications of voter preference in this closely watched election. Watch Tamil Nadu Polls See Surge in First-Time Voters, Youth Drive Record TurnoutThe electoral battle is primarily between the DMK-led alliance and the AIADMK-led front. Chief minister MK Stalin is seeking a second consecutive term, while AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami is aiming to reclaim power after five years.Tamil Nadu’s political arena continues to be dominated by Dravidian parties, with national parties playing a secondary role. The BJP is contesting in alliance with the AIADMK, while the Congress remains aligned with the ruling DMK.The AIADMK, which last won the Assembly election in 2016 under J Jayalalithaa, has struggled to regain its dominance following her death. Leadership transitions involving O Panneerselvam and EPS have reshaped the party’s trajectory.A new entrant has added intrigue to this election—Tamil superstar Vijay, who has launched his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. His campaign has drawn massive crowds and significant attention, marking a fresh variable in Tamil Nadu politics.Key constituenciesSeveral constituencies are expected to play a crucial role in determining the outcome:Kolathur: MK Stalin seeks to retain his strongholdChepauk: Udhayanidhi Stalin faces a key electoral testTiruchirapalli East & Perambur: Actor Vijay makes his political debutEdappadi: EPS aims to secure another victoryBodinayakkanur: A high-profile contest following O Panneerselvam’s switch to DMKMylapore: Tamilisai Soundararajan in focusSattur: Nainar Nagendran adds to the contest’s intensityThese seats are likely to be closely tracked as early indicators of broader electoral trends.Tamil Nadu recorded a total of around 4.87 crore votes in the election, reflecting strong voter participation across the state. The turnout is expected to play a decisive role in shaping the final outcome, particularly in tightly contested constituencies.When and where to watch exit pollsAs per Election Commission (EC) guidelines, exit polls cannot be released until 30 minutes after polling concludes in the final phase. For the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, exit poll results will be available after 6.30pm on April 29.Viewers can follow live updates, trends, and detailed analysis of exit polls on The Times of India.What are exit polls?Exit polls are surveys conducted immediately after voters cast their ballots. Unlike opinion polls, which gauge voter sentiment before voting, exit polls are based on actual voter responses about whom they voted for.You can track the latest exit poll trends here.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 MediaVideosIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired AttackIndia’s Defence Spending Hits $92 Bn, Becomes World’s 5th Largest Amid Global Military SurgeIs Rafale deal with France stuck? 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UAE to exit OPEC, OPEC+ amid Strait of Hormuz disruptions: What it means JNVST Class 9th result for Lateral Entry released at navodaya.gov.in: Direct link to download scorecards here Ranbir Kapoor gave THIS advice to his sister Riddhima Kapoor Sahni for her acting debut in ‘Daadi Ki Shadi’ alongside Kapil Sharma, Neetu Kapoor 10 things you should walk away from— No regrets, no looking back West Bengal elections phase 2: In Didi’s den, BJP tests the walls – what’s at stake | India News $20,000 for a Green Card: California man posed as ICE officer and scammed immigrants seeking US citizenship MEA condemns Mali terror attacks, calls for regional stability | India News IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi wins heart with humble gesture for young fan – Watch | Cricket News IIP growth slips to 5-month low of 4.1% in March; manufacturing slows Suniel Shetty plans Char Dham pilgrimage, praises arrangements in Rishikesh: ‘The police are working round the clock’ Final Fantasy VII Rebirth demo available for Switch 2 and Xbox: Here’s what we know so far 2,000-year-old Roman tool discovered in Czech Republic could rewrite ancient engineering history | World News Mamata Banerjee and Suvendu Adhikari (R) NEW DELHI: West Bengal, the biggest among the five states that went to polls and the only one with its final phase still pending, is drawing huge attention as results are set to be announced on May 4. Even before that, all eyes are on the exit polls, which will start coming in from the evening of April 29.As per Election Commission rules, exit poll projections will be released after 6:30 pm on April 29.You can track exit polls for West Bengal assembly here.After a record voter turnout of nearly 93% in Phase 1, the state is now heading into Phase 2, where 142 seats are up for voting. Most of these seats are in areas considered strongholds of chief minister Mamata Banerjee, but the BJP, currently the main opposition, is making a strong push to break into these regions.Phase 2 will cover the remaining constituencies of the 294-seat assembly, making it a crucial round.Also read: West Bengal election phase 2 voting timing, schedule and key detailsOne of the most important seats in this phase is Bhabanipur, Mamata Banerjee’s bastion, where she is facing a challenge from strong BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari.In Phase 1, voting took place in 152 constituencies on April 23, with very high participation across regions. This has increased excitement and curiosity about the final results.Some of the key leaders in the fray include Mamata Banerjee, Chandrima Bhattacharya, Shashi Panja and Aroop Biswas from the TMC, while the BJP has fielded leaders like Suvendu Adhikari, Swapan Dasgupta and Rupa Ganguly.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 MediaVideosISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired AttackIndia’s Defence Spending Hits $92 Bn, Becomes World’s 5th Largest Amid Global Military SurgeIs Rafale deal with France stuck? Will India’s demand for access scuttle fighter deal?Mira Road Stabbing Case Under ATS Investigation Over Suspected Radicalisation AngleSalim Dola deported: Inside India’s big crackdown on D-Company’s global narcotics networkPM Narendra Modi’s Football Game In Gangtok Sparks Buzz Over Bengal Poll Message‘No Place For Double Standards’: Rajnath Singh Hails OP SINDOOR At SCO MeetAtishi Hits Back At BJP: Rejects Rijiju’s Claims, Calls AAP a Fast-Growing Political ForceAtishi Targets Modi, BJP Over Rs 2500 Promise; Asks ‘When Will Delhi Women Get Money?’123PhotostoriesDeepika Padukone’s maternity-style playbook starts with a denim-on-denim look, proving she doesn’t do boring10 powerful signs you’re highly emotionally mature, according to psychologyStep inside cricketer Yashasvi Jaiswal’s ₹5.38 crore stylish Mumbai residence5 Bhagavad Gita parenting lessons every parent should teach their childIndoor plants that can keep your home cool during summerChef Sanjeev Kapoor shares smart tips to prepare your kitchen for summer monthsWhy Sadhguru says your first 5 minutes after waking up decide your entire day’Enola Holmes 3′: Millie Bobby Brown shines in first look pictures; gives glimpse of what to expect from movie76323255BJP sweeps Gujarat civic polls — but here’s what opposition parties should worry aboutInside Tejasswi Prakash’s lavish Rs 7.63 crore Bandra house: Spacious living room, massive balconies and more123Hot PicksAmit ShahMamata BanerjeeBengal Women VotersPM Rally GunfireAssembly Election 2026Bengal Oath CeremonyTrinamool CongressTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiTamil Nadu electionPM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap HPBOSE Class 10th, 12th results likely to be declared by second week of May: Check steps to download scorecards here Remo D’souza, wife Lizelle open up on having their first child out of wedlock and later marrying thrice: ‘I didn’t have faith in him’ | Hindi Movie News UAE to exit OPEC, OPEC+ from May 1; calls move strategic decision Targeted Covid-19 research: Chinese state-sponsored hacker arrested by FBI after Italy extradition West Bengal election phase 2: Timing, schedule and other details you need to know NEW DELHI: The second phase of West Bengal assembly elections is scheduled for Wednesday, with polling set to take place across 142 constituencies from 7 am to 6 pm.The constituencies going to the polls fall under assembly numbers 77 to 202 and 259 to 274. Vote counting for all phases will be held on May 4, which will determine the next government in the state.What voters need to knowVoters must present a valid photo ID at their designated polling booth. Acceptable documents include Voter ID card (EPIC), Aadhaar card or passport. Those without proper identification will not be allowed to cast their vote.Carrying mobile phones inside polling stations is strictly prohibited. Voters are also advised not to wear or display any political party symbols while at the booth. Watch ‘Goli Maro’ Row Rocks Bengal Polls: TMC Alleges Threats To Mamata Banerjee, BJP DeniesHow to verify your voteAfter pressing the button on the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM), voters should check the Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machine to confirm their vote has been recorded accurately.Authorities have urged voters to reach their polling stations early, particularly in high-density constituencies, to avoid long queues and ensure a smooth voting experience.Bengal recorded a historic 93.2% turnout in the first phase of elections and security arrangements have been made for this second phase to ensure free and fair elections.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 MediaVideosISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired AttackIndia’s Defence Spending Hits $92 Bn, Becomes World’s 5th Largest Amid Global Military SurgeIs Rafale deal with France stuck? Will India’s demand for access scuttle fighter deal?Mira Road Stabbing Case Under ATS Investigation Over Suspected Radicalisation AngleSalim Dola deported: Inside India’s big crackdown on D-Company’s global narcotics networkPM Narendra Modi’s Football Game In Gangtok Sparks Buzz Over Bengal Poll Message‘No Place For Double Standards’: Rajnath Singh Hails OP SINDOOR At SCO MeetAtishi Hits Back At BJP: Rejects Rijiju’s Claims, Calls AAP a Fast-Growing Political ForceAtishi Targets Modi, BJP Over Rs 2500 Promise; Asks ‘When Will Delhi Women Get Money?’123PhotostoriesDeepika Padukone’s maternity-style playbook starts with a denim-on-denim look, proving she doesn’t do boring10 powerful signs you’re highly emotionally mature, according to psychologyStep inside cricketer Yashasvi Jaiswal’s ₹5.38 crore stylish Mumbai residence5 Bhagavad Gita parenting lessons every parent should teach their childIndoor plants that can keep your home cool during summerChef Sanjeev Kapoor shares smart tips to prepare your kitchen for summer monthsWhy Sadhguru says your first 5 minutes after waking up decide your entire day’Enola Holmes 3′: Millie Bobby Brown shines in first look pictures; gives glimpse of what to expect from movie76323255BJP sweeps Gujarat civic polls — but here’s what opposition parties should worry aboutInside Tejasswi Prakash’s lavish Rs 7.63 crore Bandra house: Spacious living room, massive balconies and more123Hot PicksAmit ShahMamata BanerjeeBengal Women VotersPM Rally GunfireAssembly Election 2026Bengal Oath CeremonyTrinamool CongressTop TrendingSaeed Sheikh AfridiTamil Nadu electionPM modiSalim DolaAssam HS 12th ResultManish SisodiaMumbai Watermelon Poisoning newsBengal PollsJack GrealishIPL Orange Cap Apr 28, 2026, 18:17 IST Dale Steyn credits Bhuvneshwar and Hazlewood for ‘creating fear’ with hard-length bowling Ranveer Singh’s heartfelt hug with cousin Saumya Hingorani at Goa wedding is sight to behold Step inside cricketer Yashasvi Jaiswal’s ₹5.38 crore stylish Mumbai residence ‘Trusting batters down the order’: Manjrekar reveals key to Virat Kohli’s T20 transformation Evening news wrap: Airlines send SOS over fuel prices, 89-year-old gunman injures several in Greece & more | India News Stock market today (March 28, 2026): Which are the top gainers and losers in Nifty50 and BSE Sensex today? Check list Sameera Reddy applauds Ranveer Singh’s ‘Dhurandhar’, says her ‘personal opinion’ is not for public discussion Prada faces backlash again: ₹80,000 ‘Kolhapuri-inspired’ chappals slammed online 2026 Yezdi Scrambler vs Triumph Scrambler 400 X: Engine, pricing & more “Going their separate ways”: Mike Vrabel and Jen Vrabel divorce buzz explodes as he returns to Patriots amid Dianna Russini scandal ‘Really stressful’: UK graduate who spent Rs 1 crore on degree fails to get job after 500 applications Congress leader Shashi Tharoor NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday pushed back against Union minister Kiren Rijiju over remarks suggesting that he had agreed the Congress could be seen as “anti-women”.The controversy stems from a conversation Rijiju referred to in an interview, where he claimed Tharoor had, in some sense, accepted the characterisation of his party during a discussion on the Women’s Reservation Bill.Tharoor, however, rejected that claim outright and said his words had been misinterpreted. “I am sorry, but with the greatest respect for Kiren Rijiju, at no point did I say or imply any such thing – and I have seven witnesses in the photograph who can confirm that,” he said.He further dismissed Rijiju’s version of events, adding, “ ‘That was what he meant’, our minister says. No, sir, that is NOT what I meant. ‘That Congress can be anti-women… he agreed in a way,’ he added. I am sorry but I did NOT agree in any way.”Reiterating the Congress party’s position, Tharoor pointed to its past record on women’s representation and said the party has consistently backed reservation for women. “@INCIndia has stood for women’s rights and women’s reservation under a strong woman President in Sonia Gandhi, initiated the Women’s Reservation Bill, passed it in the Rajya Sabha during our tenure and supported it in the Lok Sabha when it was brought by GoI in 2023,” he said.He added that the party remains committed to implementing reservation without tying it to delimitation. “We are totally in favour of women’s reservation and are prepared to have it implemented right now — without linking it to delimitation.”Rijiju had earlier said that while Tharoor himself could not be described as anti-women, the Congress could be viewed that way in the context of the debate. He claimed that during their exchange, both sides had broadly acknowledged each other’s points.In a post on X, Rijiju wrote, “Dr ShashiTharoor and I had agreed on one point. He is definitely not anti-women. May be because… he is highly popular amongst women, or Vice Versa !!”He also said in his interview that Tharoor had not objected to his assessment of the Congress. According to Rijiju, the two had reached a mutual understanding during the interaction.Tharoor, in his own account of the exchange, said the discussion took place after a parliamentary sitting, where it was acknowledged that he personally could not be labelled anti-women, a point he said Rijiju accepted.Sharing his broader view, Tharoor wrote, “A little post-adjournment gathering of Opposition MPs in the Lok Sabha with our charming parliamentary affairs minister. When Kiren Rijiju explained why he & his party were calling the Opposition “mahila virodhi”, it was pointed out to him that no one could ever call me anti-women! He conceded the point. Let’s face it, women are by far the better half of the species. They’re the improved models: Humans 2.0. They deserve representation in Parliament and in every institution. Just don’t link their advancement to a mischievous and potentially dangerous Delimitation that could devastate our democracy,”The exchange comes against the backdrop of a recent parliamentary debate on women’s reservation. During a special session held from April 16 to 18, a constitutional amendment aimed at reserving seats for women in Parliament and state assemblies failed to pass in the Lok Sabha after falling short of the required two-thirds majority.Opposition parties had objected to linking the proposal to delimitation and the expansion of parliamentary seats, arguing that such conditions could delay or dilute its implementation.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 MediaVideosISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands”Online Radicalisation Led To…” Maharashtra CM On ISIS-Inspired AttackIndia’s Defence Spending Hits $92 Bn, Becomes World’s 5th Largest Amid Global Military SurgeIs Rafale deal with France stuck? 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