VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html ‘Everyone deserves a Radhikka’: Vihaan Samat pens heartfelt birthday note for Radhikka Madan amid dating rumors In 1950s, secretary Bette Nesmith Graham’s simple trick turned it into a million-dollar office tool | NHL trade rumors intensify as Auston Matthews and William Nylander pushes Toronto Maple Leafs toward significant roster upgrades this offseason Salah’s shock European U-Turn: Is he turning his back on Saudi millions for one last act in Europe? | International Sports News AI-generated image use for representation NEW DELHI: The Banglar ‘manush’ have traditionally displayed a deep-rooted political loyalty, often rallying decisively behind a single political force and allowing it to govern for extended periods. Over nearly eight decades since independence, West Bengal’s political journey has not merely been a sequence of governments changing hands, but a story shaped in clear, dominant eras, each marked by ideological conviction and prolonged mandates.The 2026 assembly elections, however, have injected a new intensity into this legacy. What is unfolding is not just another electoral contest, but a high-stakes, high-voltage battle between long-incumbent chief minister Mamata Banerjee and a determined, aggressively expanding Bharatiya Janata Party brigade. Didi’s 15-year rule now faces its most formidable challenge yet. The BJP has mounted a relentless, ground-up campaign, deploying its top leadership and sharpening its attacks on the Trinamool Congress. The saffron party’s high command has gone so far as to assert that “the sun has set for TMC in Bengal.”But to understand the weight of BJP’s claim, the story of how Bengal’s political journey has evolved must be told.Congress era: Foundations of power and post-Partition rebuildingLike most states in newly independent India, Bengal’s early political leadership was shaped by the Congress. Bidhan Chandra Roy, one of the most important icons in the state’s history, became its first chief minister at a time when Bengal was reeling from the devastating effects of Partition in 1947.Bidhan Chandra’s leadership extended beyond routine governance. He played a crucial role in stabilising a fractured society and laid the foundations for modern Bengal’s administrative and infrastructural framework. Among his lasting contributions was the development of Salt Lake city, a planned township that symbolised forward-looking urbanisation.Kolkata, then Calcutta – was not just the state capital but also a political nerve centre for the Congress party. The city hosted several landmark sessions of the party across decades, becoming a stage for defining moments in India’s freedom struggle and political evolution. From the first singing of Vande Mataram to the articulation of Swaraj, Bengal remained at the heart of Congress.However, the Congress’s dominance gradually began to erode. Internal fractures, shifting political aspirations, and national-level upheavals weakened its grip. The emergence of the Bangla Congress marked the first serious rupture in its monopoly, introducing coalition politics and opening the door for alternative ideologies.The deaths of towering national leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri further destabilised the party’s structure and also its influence. The 1967 elections, often described as a “political earthquake,” dealt a decisive blow to Congress supremacy in Bengal.The red era: Rise and consolidation of Left dominanceEven as Indira Gandhi strengthened her political authority at the national level, especially after the 1971 electoral victory and the India-Pakistan war, Bengal was moving in a different direction.The Congress continued to lose ground in the state, and its final chief minister to the date, Siddhartha Shankar Ray, came to represent the end of an era. The political vacuum was swiftly filled by the Left Front, which rose to power in 1977 on the back of strong grassroots mobilisation and ideological clarity.At the centre of this transformation was Jyoti Basu, a towering Marxist leader who would go on to become one of India’s longest-serving chief ministers. Under his leadership, Bengal witnessed a profound restructuring of its rural and administrative systems.Key initiatives such as Operation Barga redefined land relations by strengthening the rights of sharecroppers, while the institutionalisation of the Panchayati Raj system in 1978 decentralised governance and empowered local bodies. These reforms created a durable political base for the Left.The Left Front governed Bengal uninterrupted from 1977 to 2011, one of the longest continuous tenures for any democratically elected communist government in the world. By 2000, Basu stepped down due to health reasons, passing the baton to comrade Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. While Bhattacharjee attempted to recalibrate the Left’s image with a focus on industrialisation, the ground realities had begun to shift. Discontent was brewing, and a new political force under Mamata Banerjee was gathering momentum.The Mamata moment: Disruption and dominanceMamata emerged as new strong leader in state.Emerging as a fierce and relentless challenger, Mamata dismantled the Left’s decades-long dominance in the 2011 assembly elections. Leading the Trinamool Congress, she secured a sweeping mandate of 184 seats and became Bengal’s first woman chief minister. Her victory marked not just a change in government, but a complete political reset. The Congress and the Left,once the principal forces in the state, were pushed to the margins. The BJP, despite having governed at the Centre earlier under Atal Bihari Vajpayee for nearly 6 years, remained an insignificant player in Bengal politics at the time.Mamata strengthened her grip further in 2016, returning to power with an even bigger mandate, crossing the 200-seat mark. At this stage, her dominance appeared unchallenged, with opposition forces fragmented and struggling to regain relevance.Her governance style, welfare outreach, and strong personal connect with voters ensured that the Trinamool Congress remained the central pole of Bengal politics.BJP’s surge: From fringe to formidable forceThe political equilibrium began to shift dramatically in 2021.The BJP launched an unprecedented campaign in Bengal, led by its stars Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah, also considered as “Chanakya” for the saffron party. The scale, intensity, and resources deployed marked a new phase in the state’s electoral politics.While Didi retained power, the BJPs performance signalled a major breakthrough. Winning 77 seats in the 294-member Assembly, the party emerged as the principal opposition, leapfrogging boththe Congress and the Left.The BJP’s strong emergence, in fact, pushed Congress and Left to the farthest margins of insignificance.This rise was significant not just numerically, but symbolically. A party that once struggled to make electoral inroads in Bengal had now positioned itself as the primary challenger to the ruling establishment under TMC supremo Mamata.2026 showdown: Continuity or change?Now, as Bengal records one of its highest-ever voter turnouts and witnesses intense, high-decibel campaigning, the stakes have never been higher.Is the state signalling a shift? Has “the sun has set for TMC in Bengal,” as the BJP leadership claims?Also the traditional notion of high voter-turnout interpreted as an undercurrent against the incumbent.The contest has increasingly taken on a bipolar character, squeezing out other political players and turning the election into a direct face-off between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP.The BJP, buoyed by its 2021 gains, has upped the ante, fielding heavyweight candidates even in traditional TMC bastions like Bhowanipore and other constituencies in southern Bengal. As a clear messaging – no seat is being conceded without a fight.Several pollsters in their exit poll predictions have also given an edge to BJP over Mamata’s TMC. This might be the first signal of discomfort for Didi. The poll of polls predicted that TMC would no longer be single strong and leading force, as BJP taking over it. In 2021, Mamata faced her former aide and a BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in Nandigram and suffered a rare personal defeat, even as she retained power across the state. This time, the dynamics appear more complex, with both sides locked in a strong contest from Bhowanipre.The elections have also seen a massive administrative exercise, including the special intensive revision process, criticised by Mamata but defended by the Election Commission, adding another layer of political tension.Will it continue its tradition of backing one dominant force for the long haul, or will it script a new chapter by embracing change?The answer lies with the Banglar ‘manush’.About the AuthorAbhishek MishraAbhishek Mishra is a Digital Content Producer at The Times of India, working with the news desk. He writes with a keen eye on foreign policy, defence developments, and the shifting currents of geopolitics-and yes, Indian politics always finds a way onto his radar too.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTamil Nadu Poll Tension: Vijay’s TVK Office Set On Fire, Security Concerns RiseRahul Gandhi Flags Fuel Price Surge After ₹993 LPG Hike, Warns Petrol-Diesel Could Be NextPunjab Assembly Chaos | CM Bhagwant Mann Allegedly ‘Intoxicated’, Opposition Demands Alcohol TestPakistan admits fuel vulnerability amid global oil shock; compares energy security with IndiaCommercial LPG Surges Past ₹3000, Hotels Warn Of Price Hike Impact | WatchTrust Vote Drama In Punjab: BJP Boycott, Congress Walkout Rocks HouseIndia-Bangladesh Row: Dhaka Summons Indian Envoy Over Assam CM Himanta’s RemarksJabalpur Cruise Boat Capsize: 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue at Bargi Dam in Madhya PradeshChanakya Today Exit Poll: BJP Sweep In Bengal, DMK Ahead In TN, Assam Favours NDAUS Hands Back 657 Stolen Antiquities Worth $14 Million To India, Exposes Global Smuggling Networks123PhotostoriesHow Raghav Chadha’s mango shake differs from a regular mango shake; details insideRaw mango vs ripe mango: Which is a safer, smarter choice for people living with diabetes?From Daffodils to Castor beans: 5 Plants that can be deadly for your pet dogSons vs daughters: 5 ways parents treat them differently without realising and the impact it leavesDo Mangoes cause body heat? 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It said that if central officers are found to have manipulated counting and favoured the BJP, the party can file an election petition. Earlier, the court had asked why only central officers were being appointed, to which the EC replied that the same practice was followed in Kerala.Justice Krishna Rao, hearing the case, asked EC, “If there is an objection, can the Election Commission not adjudicate? Why are you not going for the state govt?” The HC also pointed out that the statute allows the ECI to appoint employees from either the state govt or central govt and employees of PSUs for the role.EC counsel Dama Seshadri Naidu replied, “We have done that in Kerala. We have not singled out any state. As the situation demands, we do that.”Senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee, appearing for the petitioner, questioned, “Do you disbelieve these state govt employees? You have conducted the entire election with state govt staff. Why are you adopting a discriminatory approach towards West Bengal? In all, 2,500 companies have been brought here. If even one company had been in Pahalgam, those 26 people would not have been killed.”Justice Rao in his order said, “Section 100 of the Representation of the People Act provides that any noncompliance with the provisions of the Constitution of this Act or of any rules or orders made under this Act shall be grounds for declaring election to be void and thus, if the petitioner finds that during the counting, the central govt employees who have been appointed as counting supervisor and counting assistants favoured the candi-date of the BJP due to which the candidate of the petitioner defeated, the petitioner has the liberty to challenge the same in an election petition.”The high court also said while dismissing the petition, “It is the prerogative of the office of the Election Commission of India to appoint the counting supervisor and counting assistant either from the state govt or the central govt. This court does not find any illegality for appointing counting supervisor and counting assistant from the central govt / central PSU employee instead of state govt employee.”The high court also said, “Only the counting supervisor and the counting assistants will not be in the counting room. Micro observers, counting agents of the candidates who are contesting the election and counting personnel will also be in the counting room. Thus, it is impossible to believe the allegation made by the petitioner.” 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 MediaVideosRahul Gandhi Flags Fuel Price Surge After ₹993 LPG Hike, Warns Petrol-Diesel Could Be NextPunjab Assembly Chaos | CM Bhagwant Mann Allegedly ‘Intoxicated’, Opposition Demands Alcohol TestPakistan admits fuel vulnerability amid global oil shock; compares energy security with IndiaCommercial LPG Surges Past ₹3000, Hotels Warn Of Price Hike Impact | WatchTrust Vote Drama In Punjab: BJP Boycott, Congress Walkout Rocks HouseIndia-Bangladesh Row: Dhaka Summons Indian Envoy Over Assam CM Himanta’s RemarksJabalpur Cruise Boat Capsize: 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue at Bargi Dam in Madhya PradeshChanakya Today Exit Poll: BJP Sweep In Bengal, DMK Ahead In TN, Assam Favours NDAUS Hands Back 657 Stolen Antiquities Worth $14 Million To India, Exposes Global Smuggling NetworksNaval Anti-ship Missile : Navy, Drdo Demonstrate Salvo Launch That Can Sink Ships123PhotostoriesHow Raghav Chadha’s mango shake differs from a regular mango shake; details insideRaw mango vs ripe mango: Which is a safer, smarter choice for people living with diabetes?From Daffodils to Castor beans: 5 Plants that can be deadly for your pet dog5 situations where staying silent is powerfulSons vs daughters: 5 ways parents treat them differently without realising and the impact it leavesDo Mangoes cause body heat? What happens when you eat too many Mangoes, doctor explains6 simple tips to keep your pet safe during extreme heatwaveFeeling anxious or low? These common vitamin deficiencies could be the hidden reasonAnushka Sharma birthday special: Must-watch films on OTT like ‘NH10’, ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’, ‘Band Baaja Baaraat’, ‘Sultan’5 fashion hacks all of us can steal from King Charles123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal ElectionPM ModiAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingStock Market Holiday TodayBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap May 01, 2026, 19:55 IST IPL 2026: Yashasvi Jaiswal creates first-ball six record but Mitchell Starc has the last laugh US stock markets today (May 1, 2026): Wall Street heads for fresh records; Apple rallies as oil prices cool MPESB PAT admit card 2026 released at esb.mp.gov.in: Direct link to download hall tickets here Pete Davidson and Elsie Hewitt ‘working through issues’ while prioritizing daughter Scottie Rose – Report In 2007, Drew Houston forgot his USB drive on a bus and laid the foundation of Dropbox | Akash Makhija Wedding News: Exclusive – Sargam Ki Sadhe Satii actor Akash Makhija ties the knot with childhood sweetheart Roshni; says ‘The ceremony was rooted in simplicity and spirituality’ ‘Acceptable in my culture’: Indian real estate agent gives bizarre reason for luring 9-year-old into his car in Canada Banking panel to review PSB constraints, credit flow: DFS Secretary OPSC OCS interview schedule 2026 released: Personality test from May 14, check details here ‘Please don’t circulate visuals’: Siddharth Anand reacts to Shah Rukh Khan–Deepika Padukone leaked King set photo In 1943, naval engineer Richard James’s accidental discovery of a strange motion created one of America’s most famous toys | NSA is testing Anthropic’s Mythos to find security flaws in Microsoft products as the company is … 5 dead after small plane crashes near Austin, Texas DU defers PG and professional exams scheduled between May 20–25, cites “unavoidable circumstances” Rakul Preet Singh credits Jackky Bhagnani for support during injury recovery: ‘He is all ears when he is listening to me’ Is this a reunion clue? 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DC overhaul XI in high-stakes clash vs RR Changing lives: Virginia students repair old cars and donate them to single mothers | World News CRPF Constable registration 2026 underway: Direct link to apply for over 9000 vacancies here ‘Shah Rukh ne raada kar diya’: Former ACP says Shah Rukh Khan’s explosive 2012 altercation at Wankhede was ‘miscommunication’ Priya Kumari: ‘If I can do it, anyone can’: UPSC rank holder Priya Kumari’s resilient journey and what her parents did right | Two-wheeler sales April ’26: Big gains for Hero, Honda; RE clocks 31% jump Vaibhav Gupta: ‘Aditya Dhar plays the sitar and has an ear for music’: ‘Dhurandhar’ singer Vaibhav Gupta on singing for Ranveer Singh starrer | NEW DELHI: Days after a high-stakes election marked by record turnout, the Election Commission on Friday ordered repolling in 15 polling stations across Magrahat Paschim and Diamond Harbour in South 24 Parganas, declaring the April 29 voting void.Fresh polling will be held on May 2 from 7 am to 6 pm, the poll body confirmed.West Bengal recorded a remarkable voter turnout of over 90 percent in both phases on April 23 and April 29. Watch West Bengal Poll Tension: BJP Stops TMC Vehicle In Bhabanipur, Raises Suspicions Of EVM TamperingHowever, incidents of violence marred the process, preventing it from being entirely smooth.Results are set to be announced on May 4, as the state witnessed fierce contest between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP in a high-voltage battle for power in Kolkata.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 MediaVideosRahul Gandhi Flags Fuel Price Surge After ₹993 LPG Hike, Warns Petrol-Diesel Could Be NextPunjab Assembly Chaos | CM Bhagwant Mann Allegedly ‘Intoxicated’, Opposition Demands Alcohol TestPakistan admits fuel vulnerability amid global oil shock; compares energy security with IndiaCommercial LPG Surges Past ₹3000, Hotels Warn Of Price Hike Impact | WatchTrust Vote Drama In Punjab: BJP Boycott, Congress Walkout Rocks HouseIndia-Bangladesh Row: Dhaka Summons Indian Envoy Over Assam CM Himanta’s RemarksJabalpur Cruise Boat Capsize: 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue at Bargi Dam in Madhya PradeshChanakya Today Exit Poll: BJP Sweep In Bengal, DMK Ahead In TN, Assam Favours NDAUS Hands Back 657 Stolen Antiquities Worth $14 Million To India, Exposes Global Smuggling NetworksNaval Anti-ship Missile : Navy, Drdo Demonstrate Salvo Launch That Can Sink Ships123PhotostoriesSons vs daughters: 5 ways parents treat them differently without realising and the impact it leavesDo Mangoes cause body heat? 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Past trend suggests results follow a fixed pattern Hrithik Roshan pens emotional poem for son Hridaan’s 18th birthday, Sussanne Khan shares RARE family PICS: ‘You are a Yoddha’ 5 ways parents treat them differently without realising and the impact it leaves “More things may come out”: Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini scandal far from over as analyst warns more bombshells coming World’s longest escalator: China’s 905-meter ‘sky ladder’ lets you climb 80 floors in 20 minutes | World News Rahul Gandhi criticised the Centre over a sharp Rs 993 single-day hike in commercial LPG prices, warning of rising inflation and broader impact on small businesses, households, and potential fuel price increases.Noida International Airport in Jewar will begin commercial operations on June 15, with IndiGo’s first flight, aiming to boost connectivity, cargo movement and economic growth across the NCR and North India.Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann faces fresh controversy after opposition leaders alleged he attended the Assembly intoxicated, demanding alcohol tests, while similar past claims were dismissed by AAP as baseless.Air India will cut nearly 100 daily flights as rising ATF prices and longer international routes increase costs, intensifying financial strain and forcing reductions across key global and domestic networks.Russia successfully conducted the first test launch of its Soyuz-5 rocket from Baikonur, marking a major upgrade in launch capability aimed at improving payload capacity, efficiency and cost competitiveness.Here are the top 5 stories of the day:Rahul launches attack on Centre over LPG price hikeLeader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Friday attacked the Centre over rising inflation, highlighting a steep Rs 993 single-day jump in commercial LPG cylinder prices. He claimed prices have risen by Rs 1,380 since February, marking an 81% increase in three months, and termed it the “election bill.” Gandhi warned that the surge would hit small businesses such as tea stalls, hotels, and bakeries, while also impacting household expenses. He further alleged that petrol and diesel prices could rise after polling concludes in several states. Read the full story Watch Commercial LPG Surges Past ₹3000, Hotels Warn Of Price Hike Impact | WatchNoida international airport to begin flight operations from June 15Commercial flight operations at Noida International Airport in Jewar will commence on June 15, marking the launch of a major aviation hub in the NCR. IndiGo will operate the first flight, with Akasa Air and Air India Express expected to follow. The airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has received security clearance and features modern terminal infrastructure with multimodal connectivity. Developed by Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd, it currently has one runway and a capacity of 12 million passengers annually, aiming to boost regional connectivity, trade and tourism. Read the full storyPunjab CM accused of being drunk in assembly; oppn demands alco-meter testingPunjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has come under fire after opposition leaders accused him of arriving at the Assembly under the influence of alcohol. Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa demanded alco-meter and dope tests for all MLAs, while BJP MP Swati Maliwal also called for an alcohol test and his removal if proven guilty. The controversy comes shortly after Maliwal’s exit from AAP. Similar allegations had surfaced in 2022, including claims of an incident abroad, which the ruling party had dismissed as baseless. Read the full storyAir India may cut 100 flights daily as jet fuel prices hitAir India plans to cut nearly 100 daily flights from its 1,100-flight schedule as rising ATF prices and operational costs strain finances. The reductions will mainly impact international routes to Europe, North America, Australia and Singapore. Jet fuel prices for international operations rose over 5%, marking a second consecutive monthly hike, while domestic rates remain unchanged. Longer routes due to Pakistani airspace closure have further increased fuel and crew costs. With fuel making up around 40% of expenses, the airline faces mounting pressure to curb losses exceeding Rs 20,000 crore. Read the full storyRussia test launches Soyuz-5 rocket with ‘world’s most powerful liquid-fuelled engine’Russia has successfully carried out the first test launch of its Soyuz-5 rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, signalling a key step in modernising its space programme. The next-generation launch vehicle can carry payloads of up to 17 metric tonnes and is designed to improve efficiency while reducing launch costs. Roscosmos described it as a major upgrade, with chief Dmitry Bakanov calling it a new step in space exploration. The rocket is also expected to boost employment and strengthen Russia’s competitiveness in the global space sector. Read the full storyAbout 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 MediaVideosPunjab Assembly Chaos | CM Bhagwant Mann Allegedly ‘Intoxicated’, Opposition Demands Alcohol TestPakistan admits fuel vulnerability amid global oil shock; compares energy security with IndiaCommercial LPG Surges Past ₹3000, Hotels Warn Of Price Hike Impact | WatchTrust Vote Drama In Punjab: BJP Boycott, Congress Walkout Rocks HouseIndia-Bangladesh Row: Dhaka Summons Indian Envoy Over Assam CM Himanta’s RemarksJabalpur Cruise Boat Capsize: 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue at Bargi Dam in Madhya PradeshChanakya Today Exit Poll: BJP Sweep In Bengal, DMK Ahead In TN, Assam Favours NDAUS Hands Back 657 Stolen Antiquities Worth $14 Million To India, Exposes Global Smuggling NetworksNaval Anti-ship Missile : Navy, Drdo Demonstrate Salvo Launch That Can Sink ShipsECI Introduces New QR Code Photo ID Rule To Prevent Unauthorised Entry At Counting Centres123PhotostoriesDo Mangoes cause body heat? What happens when you eat too many Mangoes, doctor explains6 simple tips to keep your pet safe during extreme heatwaveFeeling anxious or low? 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