VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html ‘Dhurandhar 2’ box office collection day 35 [LIVE]: Ranveer Singh film needs Rs. 114 crore to beat ‘Pushpa 2’s collection ​5 silent ways children ask for attention NASA’s Curiosity rover discovers new organic molecules on Mars; what it means for life Watch: IAF aircraft lands on UP’s Purvanchal Expressway to test wartime preparedness Strait Of Hormuz: Middle East on edge again: Two ships attacked in Strait of Hormuz Representational AI image Across India and many parts of the world, 2026 has begun with unusually high temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and growing pressure on basic resources like water.In India, heat arrived weeks before it normally does, with several regions reporting above-normal temperatures even before peak summer, according to IMD. The difference is not just intensity, but timing and duration. Summers are starting earlier, lasting longer, and becoming harder to manage, especially in cities.At the same time, the global focus has shifted sharply towards water. Reports warn that freshwater systems are under stress, and rising heat is making the situation worse.Heat and water are no longer separate issues. They are closely linked, and together they are shaping how people live, work, and stay safe.A hotter IndiaHeatwaves are no longer confined to May and June. Across India, high temperatures this year began rising sharply as early as March, indicating a longer and more intense summer.Assessments cited by Down To Earth noted that 2026 is expected to see above-normal temperatures and more heatwave days during the pre-monsoon period.This pattern is part of a long-term shift. India’s land temperature has already increased by nearly 0.9°C in recent years compared to early 20th-century levels. But averages only tell part of the story. What matters more is the rise in extremes: hotter peak days, longer heatwaves, and a steady increase in the number of warm days over time.For us, this means heat is no longer a short seasonal spike. It is stretching across months, affecting daily routines, work hours, and health. What used to be peak summer conditions are now becoming more common, forcing both individuals and systems to adapt. .The hidden dangerOne of the less visible but more dangerous trends this year is the rise in warm nights. In cities like Mumbai, nighttime temperatures are staying unusually high, reducing the body’s ability to recover from daytime heat. This has changed how heat stress is understood.Traditionally, heatwaves were measured by daytime temperatures. Now, humidity and nighttime conditions are equally important. When nights remain warm and humid, the human body does not get the cooling period it needs. This leads to continuous stress, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.According to reports, factors like humidity, heat index, and deviation from normal temperatures are now being used to assess heatwave conditions. This reflects a shift in how extreme heat is being tracked and understood.The impact is significant. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, outdoor workers, and people with existing health conditions are at higher risk. Even populations that are used to hot weather are finding it harder to cope because the intensity and duration of heat exposure have increased.Heat and healthAs temperatures rise earlier in the year, health advisories are also being issued sooner. Several states have already warned people to limit outdoor activity during peak hours and stay hydrated. These advisories are becoming more frequent and more urgent.Health departments have flagged symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, dehydration, and fainting as early warning signs of heat-related illness. In severe cases, heatstroke can lead to high body temperature, nausea, and rapid heartbeat. These are not new risks, but their frequency is increasing.Another concern is that the actual impact of heat may be underreported. Many heat-related deaths are often recorded under other causes, such as cardiac or respiratory issues. This makes it difficult to fully understand the scale of the problem.The result is a growing gap between what is officially recorded and what people are experiencing. As heatwaves become more common, the pressure on healthcare systems is expected to increase, especially in areas with limited resources.As heatwaves become more frequent and intense, doctors say small daily habits can make a significant difference in preventing serious health risks. Dr Amit Prakash Singh, consultant – Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital says, “Stay hydrated and drink water regularly throughout the day, rather than waiting until you are very thirsty. Signs of dehydration are dark yellow urine, little urine, and/or being dizzy. If you see these signs, you are most likely dehydrated. Nutrition is also very important if you want to stay healthy in hot weather.”Avoiding direct sun exposure, especially between 11 am and 4 pm, is also important, Dr Nitin Verma, Director – General Paediatrics at Rainbow Hospital, Delhi, adds. “Wear lightweight or cotton clothing, and use shades or an umbrella when exiting. Sunscreen is also helpful for protecting against skin damage due to sun exposure. Be attuned to your body’s needs. If you are sweating profusely and feel weak, nauseous, headachy, this may signal heat exhaustion. Do not ignore these symptoms,” he cautions. .Water stressWhile heat is visible and immediate, water stress is building more quietly. There’s a growing gap between water demand and supply. A Reuters report suggests that freshwater demand could exceed supply by up to 40% by the end of this decade.Billions of people already lack access to safe drinking water and sanitation. Climate change is disrupting the natural water cycle, leading to more extreme droughts in some regions and sudden floods in others.For India, this creates a complex challenge. Rising temperatures increase water demand, while uneven rainfall and limited storage reduce supply. Urban areas, in particular, are vulnerable because of high population density and dependence on limited water sources.Heat vs waterHeat and water are now interacting in ways that make both problems worse. Higher temperatures lead to faster evaporation, which reduces water levels in reservoirs and rivers. At the same time, people need more water to cope with the heat, increasing demand.This creates a feedback loop. As water becomes scarce, managing heat becomes harder. As heat intensifies, water systems come under more pressure. The two crises reinforce each other.Extreme heat is also driving record electricity demand, mainly due to increased use of cooling systems. This puts additional strain on infrastructure, including water supply systems that depend on electricity.In India, limited wastewater treatment adds to the problem. Only a portion of wastewater is treated and reused, which reduces the ability to manage shortages during extreme conditions. This makes cities more vulnerable during prolonged heatwaves.Heat trapsUrban areas are at the centre of this crisis. Rapid urbanisation, combined with poor planning, has created environments that trap heat. Concrete structures, limited green cover, and dense populations all contribute to higher temperatures in cities.Urban areas can experience significantly higher temperatures than surrounding regions. This is often referred to as the “urban heat island” effect.The impact is not just discomfort. Studies show that even a single day of extreme heat can increase mortality rates, while prolonged heatwaves can have more severe consequences, according to Down to Earth. Cities like Delhi are particularly exposed because of their size, density, and infrastructure challenges.For residents, this means higher indoor temperatures, increased electricity use, and greater health risks. For governments, it means managing a growing crisis with limited time and resources.Global to groundWhat India is experiencing is part of a wider global trend. Climate reports indicate that the Earth is retaining more heat than before due to rising greenhouse gas emissions. This is weakening natural systems that regulate temperature.According to The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), there’s an increasing concern about climate “tipping points”— thresholds beyond which changes may become difficult to reverse. These include shifts in ocean currents, melting ice, and changes in ecosystems.While much of the conversation around extreme heat focuses on cities, a quieter but equally important part of the story is unfolding in rural India. Agriculture, water availability, and land use are deeply linked to rising temperatures. What happens in farms and village ecosystems directly affects how heat and water stress play out across the country.“The impact of climate change can often feel vast and overwhelming, too large and complex for any one individual to influence. But that is not the full picture,” said Chandrakant Kumbhani, Chief Operating Officer, Community Development, Ambuja Foundation.“Across India, millions of smallholder farmers and rural communities collectively hold significant power to be part of the solution. The landscapes they manage every day – their soils, water systems, and biodiversity – are central to both the challenge and the response. When these are restored through regenerative agriculture, water conservation, and biodiversity revival, it strengthens both environmental health and rural livelihoods,” he added.Earth Day 2026Earth Day is an annual global event held on April 22 to raise awareness about environmental protection and climate issues.It began in 1970 in the United States, when millions of people took part in demonstrations against pollution and environmental damage.The official Earth Day 2026 theme is “Our power, our planet’, to highlight the collective power of individuals, communities, and local actions in driving environmental progress and accelerating the transition to renewable energy.Over the decades, Earth Day has expanded into a global movement marked in more than 190 countries. Governments, schools, organisations and communities use the day to highlight environmental challenges, from air pollution and biodiversity loss to climate change and sustainable development.About the AuthorAnushree SinhaAnushree is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of IndiaEnd 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 Anniversary123PhotostoriesGoddess Ganga names based on your birth dateMorning vs evening heart attacks: What your body clock is doing to your arteries5 Japanese mindsets shaping healthier lifestyles in 2026How 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 rest123Hot 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 NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap Pakistan’s Mohammad Nawaz in trouble after positive drug test; PCB to investigate Access has not tranlated to financial maturity in Rajasthan and Gujarat, says survey UPMSP UP Board result 2026: Class 10, 12 scores to be declared April 23 at 4 PM; Over 54 lakh students await outcome Salman Khan and Nayanthara begin shoot for Vamshi Paidipally’s big-budget film; a pan-India entertainer starts rolling in Mumbai 5 psychological tricks narcissists use: Notice them early to stay safe from them Goddess Ganga names based on your birth date Tech Mahindra Q4 results: IT firm beats estimates as profit jumps 16% YoY; Rs 36/share dividend announced Iran executes man convicted of spying for Israel’s Mossad ಬಿಹಾರ ಪಕ್ಷೇತರ ಸಂಸದ ಪಪ್ಪು ಯಾದವ್ ವಿವಾದಾತ್ಮಕ ಹೇಳಿಕೆ. NEW DELHI: A day after courting controversy over his remarks, Independent MP Pappu Yadav on Wednesday stoked a fresh row while giving a clarification.While talking to reporters, Pappu Yadav defended his remarks by claiming that 70 to 80 percent of politicians watch porn.Responding to the notice from the Bihar State Women’s Commission over his remarks related to the Women’s Reservation Bill, he said, “I have said this on the Floor of the House too that 70-80% of the politicians watch porn.””So, get everyone checked. If there is porn on my phone, check me too. Who are these people who have served me a notice? Who are they with? There are several photos with former ministers. People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones,” he added.Earlier on Tuesday, the parliamentarian from Bihar said that that women will never be respected in politics.”In India, women are called goddesses, but they will never be respected here. System and society are responsible for this. Who is indulging in domestic violence? Who preys on women, from America to India, it is politicians! 90% of women cannot start in politics without going to a male leader’s room,” he said.”A culture of exploiting women has become ingrained. Go to school, and your daughter faces exploitation; go to college, and exploitation in the name of ragging; go to the office, exploitation is there as well. Leaders behave like vultures toward women,” he added.His statement, triggered widespread controversy, with political leaders accusing him of making anti-women remarks.Taking note of the comment, Bihar state women’s commission sought clarification from the leader. “Taking suo motu cognizance of this matter, the Bihar State Women’s Commission seeks an explanation from you as to why you made such an offensive statement. It also asks why a recommendation should not be made to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha for the cancellation of your membership,” it said in a statement.”It is stated that in a video circulated on social media, you have made an objectionable statement regarding women working in the political sphere. In the video, you are heard saying that women who enter politics do so by sharing a bed with some politician, which hurts women’s self-respect and social dignity,” the statement said.This comes as PM Narendra Modi criticised the opposition for not supporting the 131st Constitutional (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which sought to advance reservation for women after delimitation. He called Congress, DMK, TMC and SP of being anti-women.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 Anniversary123PhotostoriesGoddess Ganga names based on your birth dateMorning vs evening heart attacks: What your body clock is doing to your arteries5 Japanese mindsets shaping healthier lifestyles in 2026How 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 home123Hot 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 NewsMiddle East ConflictIPL Orange Cap US tightens screws on high-skilled immigration: Denial rates surge across key visa categories West Bengal HS exam results date out: Here’s what students need to know to download Class 12th scorecards Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and a Bondi Beach unbothered sunbather go viral for their royal ‘invisible’ moment Swimming Pool Child Safety: 12-year-old girl dies after hair gets stuck in pool suction pump: 5 things parents should ensure for child safety in swimming pools 2006 Malegaon blast case: Bombay high court allows accused to appeal against NIA court order of framing charges https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/2006-malegaon-blast-case-bombay-high-court-allows-accused-to-appeal-against-nia-court-order-of-framing-charges/articleshow/130435263.cms | Mumbai News ‘He doesn’t trust himself…’: Finch questions ‘attitude’ of India’s ‘double-World Cup winner’ NEET UG 2026 admit card to be released on April 26 at neet.nta.nic.in; check steps to download hall ticket ‘Bhooth Bangla’ box office collection day 5 [LIVE]: Akshay Kumar starrer eyes Rs. 100 crore domestic milestone What is the meaning of Indian summer in the UK? | Rich by 30 or 40; Your date of birth can predict when you’ll get rich, Here’s how Tesla Model Y L Premium: Five key highlights explained Banks and financial institutions in America and Europe, Anthropic may have just ‘failed in its promise to protect’ you as hackers claim … 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 ‘Have to give Abhishek Sharma leeway’: SRH’s Varun Aaron explains why UPSC NDA result 2026 expected to be released by end of April: Check complete details here ‘The Deb’ star Charlotte MacInnes to testify in Rebel Wilson vs Amanda Ghost court case – Report 6 signs your child feels emotionally safe with you 80,000-year-old DNA from Stajnia Cave reveals the oldest Neanderthal group in Central-Eastern Europe ‘Fighting one of the most difficult battles’: Kejriwal extends support to Mamata ahead of Bengal polls ‘Ceasefire not open-ended’: Trump gives Iran ‘another three to five days’ to come up with unified proposal 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 Half of health cover buyers in 20s let their policy lapse in three years Telugu filmmaker Tripuraneni Chittibabu passes away at 71 due to cardiac arrest; Tollywood mourns the loss of ‘Raitu Bharatham’ star | Telugu Movie News “Please make Pluto a planet again”: 10-year-old’s letter gets a surprising reply from NASA chief | ‘Lift the blockade’: Iran sets condition for round two of peace talks in Pakistan Grand Canyon mystery solved? Shocking new study claims a ‘lost ancient lake’ may have carved one of Earth’s greatest natural wonders . KOLKATA: Police have denied permission for Rahul Gandhi’s rallies in Kolkata and Serampore, scheduled on April 23, Bengal Congress secretary Roahan Mitra said Tuesday.Congress planned three rallies for Gandhi. For the Kolkata rallies, permission had been sought for Ramlila Park or Park Circus ground, and Metiabruz. A separate permission was sought for holding a rally at Serampore stadium. Watch Nitish Kumar Was ‘Compromised’, BJP Controlled Him: Rahul Gandhi’s Big Bihar Claim In Tamil Nadu“Police have not given us permission for a single rally while others are allowed to hold rallies,” Mitra said, adding that the rallies planned for April 23 have been cancelled.Asked for a response, Bengal mantri Shashi Panja said, “Caretaker govt in the state cannot answer for the cancellation of his visit, EC can answer that.”About the AuthorRohit KhannaRohit Khanna covers sectors like government finance, economy, industry and issues related to financial crime.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAllahabad 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 CaseBJP Leader Nazia Elahi Khan Applies Tilak At Lenskart Store Amid Dress Code RowSupreme Court Raises Alarm Over Digital Arrest Scams, ₹2.5 Cr Fraud Case HighlightedKashmir On Alert As SOG Carries Out Search Ops Before Pahalgam AnniversaryGun, Kirpans, Pepper Spray: Clash Inside Germany Gurdwara Leaves 11 WoundedIndia, Korea Discuss Global Tensions, Stress Peace, Security And Stronger Multilateral Cooperation123PhotostoriesHow 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 itThings you should be cleaning more often than you thinkThink cancer is mostly genetic? 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