VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Meet Grigori Perelman: The math genius who solved a 100-year-old problem and rejected a $1 million prize and the Fields Medal Delta Airlines ‘rejects’ Starlink, reportedly wants to ‘wait’ for Amazon Leo; Elon Musk says: Delta wanted to … Trump stays quiet, Xi warns of ‘clashes and conflicts if not handled properly’ Kalyan Banerjee (Image/PTI) NEW DELHI: Former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday appointed Kalyan Banerjee as the new Chief whip of the Trinamool Congress in Lok Sabha replacing Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar. The announcement was made during an internal meeting of party MPs held at Mamata Banerjee’s residence in Kalighat as the party leadership sought to regroup after its recent electoral setback in West Bengal. Kalyan Banerjee, who had earlier been removed from the post amid internal turbulence within the party last year following a public spat with Krishnanagar MP Mahua Moitra has now been brought back at a time when the TMC is attempting to steady its organisation and parliamentary strategy.The reshuffle was seen by party insiders as a signal that the leadership continues to value political aggression and loyalty during difficult times. In recent months, Kalyan Banerjee emerged as one of the party’s most vocal legal and political faces, actively defending the TMC in court battles and public confrontations during the election period.While the party retained Abhishek Banerjee as leader of the party in the Lok Sabha and Shatabdi Roy as deputy leader, Kalyan Banerjee’s return was considered the most significant organisational decision taken during the meeting.According to party sources, the meeting at Kalighat had the feel of a regrouping exercise after the party’s defeat, with discussions focused on maintaining unity and rebuilding morale among MPs and workers, PTI reported.Several leaders reportedly viewed the move as recognition of Kalyan Banerjee’s aggressive role in defending the party politically and legally. “The leadership values those who stand up and fight in difficult times,” a senior TMC MP said after the meeting.During the meeting, Mamata Banerjee reportedly urged MPs to stay connected with their constituencies and maintain coordination with local leadership as the party attempts to recover from one of its toughest political phases in years.Addressing the MPs, Abhishek Banerjee alleged that the TMC had fought not just the BJP but ‘the entire machinery’ deployed by the saffron party during the elections. He also claimed there were irregularities during counting and alleged that TMC counting agents faced restrictions at several centres.Later, TMC MP Saayoni Ghosh struck a defiant note, claiming that the party was not afraid of setbacks.”TMC is not among those who are afraid or those who back down. Mamata Banerjee is a lioness, a fighter — she was before, and she will remain so. This vote is not the people’s mandate. The people of West Bengal did not want Mamata Banerjee’s government to be removed,” she said.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 MediaVideos2 Days WFH To ‘No Vehicle Day’: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Unveils Fuel-Saving Steps After PM Modi’s CallCong Picks VD Satheesan As Kerala CM; Iran FM Lands In India For Brics Meet With ‘Minab168’ MsgSupreme Court Questions CEC Appointment Process, Raises ‘Independence’ ConcernsMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues Longer123PhotostoriesTop 10 fascinating facts about rhinos that make them unlike any other wild animal5 animals with giant tusks and horns that make them look prehistoricHow these 5 Indian ice creams became among the 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams of the WorldRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? The 6-4-2 formula may be the balance your life is missing6 foods a Harvard doc eats daily to prevent colon cancer and fatty liverConstipated? NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantly123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh script history vs MI, become first uncapped pair in IPL to… US authorities moving to drop fraud case against Gautam Adani, settle SEC suit: Report Child’s bones and mysterious ancient tech found in a remote Pyrenees cave at 2,235 meters NEW DELHI: The Calcutta high court on Thursday instructed the newly-elected BJP governmemt in West Bengal to “strictly maintain law and order at the ground level”. The order came after Mamata Banerjee told the court that the police had remained inactive during the post-poll violence, while also asserting that “Bengal is not a bulldozer state” in the context of continuing demolition drives against illegal structures.The court further instructed the police to guarantee the safety of those who had fled their homes fearing post-poll retaliatory violence, and to facilitate their secure return to their properties regardless of political affiliation.The writ petition was filed by Sirsanya Bandyopadhyay, a TMC candidate in the recently concluded assembly elections and son of Kalyan Banerjee, alleging widespread violence against party workers and attacks on TMC offices following the declaration of the 2026 assembly poll results on May 4. The interim order was passed by a bench comprising chief justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen, which also directed the state to file its affidavit-in-opposition within three weeks and granted an additional two weeks for a reply, while keeping open the question of the maintainability of the TMC’s PIL.Assisting petitioner’s counsel Kalyan Banerjee while dressed in a lawyer’s robe, Banerjee told the court that at least 10 people had been killed, around 150-160 TMC offices vandalised and nearly 2,000 incidents of violence reported after the polls.She alleged that FIRs were not being registered and claimed that women, children and minorities were being specifically targeted. “Out of ten dead, six are Hindus. They are not allowing FIRs to be lodged. In my family, 12-year-old girls are being threatened with rape,” Banerjee argued.Arguing that criminals were taking the law into their own hands, she said even people accused of unauthorised construction were entitled to be heard before demolition. She questioned police inaction, asking, “People are entitled to be heard even if you are demolishing an unauthorised structure. Criminals are taking law into their own hands. Police should prevent crime. After an incident has happened, will they not investigate?”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 MediaVideosSupreme Court Questions CEC Appointment Process, Raises ‘Independence’ ConcernsMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal Tensions123Photostories5 animals with giant tusks and horns that make them look prehistoricHow these 5 Indian ice creams became among the 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams of the WorldRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? The 6-4-2 formula may be the balance your life is missing6 foods a Harvard doc eats daily to prevent colon cancer and fatty liverConstipated? NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantlyMouni Roy seperation buzz to Hansika Motwani’s divorce; Bollywood breakups that left fans stunned123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav Flying through unending turbulence: For Indian airlines one crisis lands, another takes off ‘Off Campus’ writer Louisa Levy weighs in on changes in the series compared to book: ‘It just made more narrative sense’ NFL Trade Rumor: Kansas City Chiefs reportedly eye reunion with former Miami Dolphins WR amid major injury concerns ‘You are doing nonsense’: Indian man counters Texas whistleblower Sara Gonzales over H-1B allegation, calls her jobless Celebrating those who shape tomorrow’s skylines FIR registered against Yograj Singh over alleged derogatory remarks against women in web series Mumbai Indians script unique IPL history as Jasprit Bumrah captains vs Punjab Kings Govt caps gold imports under advance authorisation at 100 kg, tightens compliance rules Hrithik Roshan’s sister Sunaina Roshan shares viral weight loss transformation after hospital scare: ‘Fear became my fuel’ Suriya and Trisha starrer confirmed for May 15 after financial deadlock Who was Pedro Ballester? UK student on path to becoming Catholic Church’s first Gen Z saint BRICS: EAM slams unilateral sanctions, says pressure can’t replace diplomacy (Image credit: ANI) NEW DELHI: The BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting began Thursday with external affairs minister S Jaishankar denouncing “increasing resort’ to unilateral coercive measures and sanctions inconsistent with international law and the UN Charter. Delivering India’s national statement, Jaishankar said such “unjustifiable” measures, which disproportionately affect developing countries, cannot substitute dialogue and that pressure cannot replace diplomacy.India has in the past signed on to similar BRICS statements against unilateral measures and sanctions aimed primarily at the West and its Western allies, choosing to mostly follow UN-authorised actions. However, Jaishankar’s remarks seemed designed also to reinforce India’s strategic autonomy and its credentials for Global South stewardship as he called for an equitable and inclusive international order, drawing attention to concerns over supply chain disruptions and food and energy insecurity.The minister underlined India’s concerns over energy supply disruptions caused by the Hormuz strait blockade, cross-border terrorism and long overdue UNSC reform, seeking BRICS solidarity when the world faced unprecedented geopolitical and economic uncertainty, along with challenges that were testing the resilience of multilateral systems.While singling out West Asia for special attention, the minister said continuing tensions, risks to maritime traffic, and disruptions to energy infrastructure highlighted the fragility of the situation. “Safe and unimpeded maritime flows through international waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea, remain vital for global economic well-being,” he said, speaking at a meeting on global and regional issues.The minister addressed the BRICS’ concerns over the Gaza conflict and its grave humanitarian implications, underscoring the need for a sustained ceasefire, humanitarian access, and a credible pathway towards a durable and peaceful resolution. He also reiterated India’s support for a two-state solution for Palestine and the importance of upholding international law.Jaishankar, however, said that it is important to address similar situations and challenges in countries like Sudan, Libya, Yemen, Lebanon and Syria. “Taken together, they underline a clear reality: stability cannot be selective, and peace cannot be piecemeal. It is essential to uphold international law, protect civilians, and avoid targeting public infrastructure,” said the minister, adding that India stood ready to contribute constructively to de-escalation efforts and to support initiatives aimed at restoring stability.Jaishankar spoke about the threat from terrorism saying there can be no justification for the menace, and that cross-border terrorism violated the basic principles of international relations. “Zero tolerance must remain an uncompromising and universal norm,” he said. While reiterating India’s commitment to the UN Charter, Jaishankar said that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity must remain the foundation of international relations, and dialogue and diplomacy the only sustainable means of resolving conflicts.Jaishankar expectedly gave vent to India’s frustration over the delay in UN reforms, as he said that while challenges were mounting, the multilateral system was weakening. “The state of the United Nations, which is at its core, is particularly worrisome. With each passing day, the case for reformed multilateralism only gets stronger. This includes the reform of the UN Security Council in both the permanent and non-permanent categories,” he said, adding that continued delay came at a high cost.The main focus of his remarks remained the Global South, as he sought efforts for a more stable, equitable, and inclusive international order, saying that the message from these times remained clear: cooperation is essential, dialogue is necessary, and reform is overdue.He said that conflicts, climate events and Covid had weakened growth prospects and deepened vulnerabilities. “Many of these issues have far-reaching consequences beyond their immediate region. Their impact is particularly severe for emerging markets and developing countries, through pressures on energy, food and fertilizer security, supply chain disruptions, inflationary trends and constraints on growth,” said the minister, adding that for many developing countries, the priority is not only growth, but managing vulnerabilities under increasingly difficult global conditions.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal TensionsBJP Questions Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Rs 60 Crore Foreign Travel Spending Claims123PhotostoriesRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? 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NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantlyMouni Roy seperation buzz to Hansika Motwani’s divorce; Bollywood breakups that left fans stunned7 smart lighting ideas that instantly make your home feel luxurious5 oils you need to buy on your hair growth journey123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav Jannik Sinner breaks Novak Djokovic’s 15-year record with dominant Italian Open run ‘If your cast is wrong, it’s nothing’: James Cameron shares masterclass tips to young filmmakers Hidden beneath Oklahoma’s white salt flats lies a crystal found nowhere else on Earth that people can dig up for free Why Donald Trump cosying up to Xi may leave India out in cold? Scientists discover 6,000-year-old massive monuments from a forgotten civilisation CBI arrests two more accused in Maharashtra; tally rises to 7 S&P 500, Nasdaq hit fresh highs as Nvidia rallies; US-China talks in focus SSC CGL 2025 final result declared with 15,118 candidates shortlisted; check cut-offs and other details here Alia Bhatt responds to a troll saying nobody noticed her at Cannes Film Festival, as videos of paps ignoring her went viral: ‘Why pity?’ How climate change may be fuelling the spread of deadly Hantavirus that killed three on the MV Hondius Anthropic CFO Krishna Rao says: While AI now writes 90% of the company’s code, we have hired a lot more people because … US and China are unlikely to fall into the Thucydides Trap, but history has another warning NEW DELHI: Delhi high court judge Swarana Kanta Sharma on Thursday said that she had decided to initiate contempt proceedings against some of the discharged accused in the excise policy case for posting “vilifying” and defamatory material against her. The court was hearing a petition filed by the CBI challenging the trial court’s decision to discharge former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, his former deputy Manish Sisodia and 21 others in the liquor policy case.”It has come to my notice that extremely vilifying, extremely contemptuous, and defamatory material is being posted by some of the respondents against me and against this court and I cannot stay silent. I have decided to draw contempt proceedings against some of the respondents and some other contemnors,” ANI quoted the judge saying.During the hearing, Justice Sharma observed that several senior advocates had “graciously accepted” the court’s request to appear in the matter, but said she came across material in the meantime that she considered contemptuous. Arvind Kejriwal and other MLAs have been boycotting proceedings before Justice Sharma after she declined to recuse herself from the case despite applications alleging conflict of interest and apprehension of bias.The trial court, on February 27, discharged Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and 21 others in the liquor policy case, ruling that the prosecution’s case could not withstand judicial scrutiny and stood entirely discredited.Earlier, the court had decided to appoint senior advocates as amicus curiae to represent the respondents who were unrepresented, including AAP leaders Kejriwal, Sisodia and Durgesh Pathak.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal TensionsBJP Questions Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Rs 60 Crore Foreign Travel Spending Claims123PhotostoriesHow these 5 Indian ice creams became among the 100 Most Iconic Ice Creams of the WorldRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? 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NEW DELHI: At least 117 people have lost their lives across Uttar Pradesh after relentless rain, lightning and thunderstorms battered several parts of the state over the past 36 to 48 hours. The incident has prompted the Uttar Pradesh government to announce compensation of Rs 4 lakh each for the families of the deceased.Uttar Pradesh Relief Commissioner Harikesh Bhaskar on Thursday said continuous monitoring was underway and the 24-hour Integrated Control and Command Centre remained fully operational amid the worsening weather situation.According to officials, reports of deaths, livestock losses and damage to houses have emerged from at least 19 districts including Barabanki, Bahraich, Kanpur Dehat, Basti, Sambhal, Hardoi and Unnao.Authorities said around 130 livestock animals have also died while nearly 98 houses suffered damage due to the severe weather conditions.Earlier in the day, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to immediately visit affected areas, provide relief assistance to victims and ensure speedy compensation disbursal.He also instructed all District Magistrates to prioritise rescue and relief operations and ordered districts to submit situation updates every three hours.According to officials, compensation disbursal, rescue operations and other relief measures are also being monitored through social media updates and field inspections.Meanwhile, Union Minister Jitendra Singh launched two advanced weather forecasting systems developed under the Ministry of Earth Sciences aimed at improving hyper-local and AI-enabled weather prediction services across the country.The systems include the Meteorological Department’s first Artificial Intelligence-enabled monsoon forecast model and a high-resolution rainfall forecast system for Uttar Pradesh capable of predicting rainfall at 1-km spatial resolution up to 10 days in advance.Officials said the new systems integrate data from automatic rain gauges, weather stations, Doppler radars and satellite-based rainfall datasets using AI-driven forecasting techniques to improve early warnings amid increasing extreme weather events.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMan Trying To Hold Tin Shed Gets Swept Into Air During Violent Storm In Bareilly, Survives Fall’Unacceptable’: India Slams Attack On Indian-Flagged Ship Near OmanEC Announces Phase 3 Of SIR Across 16 States, 3 UTs; J&K, Ladakh, Himachal Left OutEx-Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee In Lawyer’s Gown Argues Post-poll Violence Case In High CourtKC Venugopal Backs VD Satheesan as Kerala CM, Says Congress Fully United Behind HimCongress Picks VD Satheesan as Kerala CM After 10 Days of Talks and Leadership BattleRBI Governor Warns Fuel Price Hike Possible If Middle East Crisis Continues LongerAIMIM Corporator’s Home Razed In Sambhajinagar Amid TCS Conversion Case Row EscalationKerala CM Race Ends as Congress Picks VD Satheesan Amid Venugopal Backing and Internal TensionsBJP Questions Rahul Gandhi Over Alleged Rs 60 Crore Foreign Travel Spending Claims123PhotostoriesRice water vs coconut water for hair growth: Which works better in summer?5 reasons why someone dislikes you – And why is it not your problemAditi Rao Hydari just landed in Cannes and her denim airport look already screams red carpet royalty10 affirmations to attract calm and genuine loveFeeling constantly exhausted at work? The 6-4-2 formula may be the balance your life is missing6 foods a Harvard doc eats daily to prevent colon cancer and fatty liverConstipated? NYC doc shares the ‘I love you’ technique to help you poop instantlyMouni Roy seperation buzz to Hansika Motwani’s divorce; Bollywood breakups that left fans stunned7 smart lighting ideas that instantly make your home feel luxurious5 oils you need to buy on your hair growth journey123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingWB Class 12 Result 2026WB Board 12th ResultIPL Points TablePM Internship SchemeCalcutta High CourtMI vs PBKS IPL MatchIPL Orange Cap 2026Haryana Board ResultAir India FlightsPrateek Yadav Legal dispute surrounding Michael Jackson’s estate: From the legend’s demise to Paris Jackson’s legal win Krunal Pandya’s ₹30 crore sea-facing Mumbai home is a luxurious 8-BHK apartment reflecting cricketing success and strong family bond West Bengal makes ‘Vande Mataram’ must in school morning assemblies UAE among world’s fastest-growing billionaire hubs with 17 residents worth $212.6 billion: Forbes NEW DELHI: The Congress finally ended Kerala’s suspense on Wednesday. Ten days after the UDF’s historic mandate, VD Satheesan was named chief minister. For a party that had just won 63 seats, with the UDF alliance winning 102, the delay was not about numbers or coalition arithmetic. It was about the Congress being unable to get out of its own way.Across the country, in West Bengal, the BJP had done the same thing in roughly 48 hours. 207 seats, a state won for the first time in the party’s history, and Suvendu Adhikari was named CM before the celebrations had properly begun (or Mamata had resigned). Similar scenes played out in Assam, where the saffron party secured a thumping mandate. There was never much doubt over the BJP’s choice for chief minister. Himanta Biswa Sarma, who has led the party to consecutive victories in the state, has also played a key role in expanding the BJP’s footprint across the North East was the obvious choice.Also read: How 2026 Assam win established ‘outsider’ Himanta as party’s next-gen leaderTwo parties achieved historic victories in the same election cycle, yet they took completely different approaches afterward. One moves as if it has done this before. The other moves like it is battling inner turmoil even after securing a historic mandate.One party treats victory as the start of control; the other often treats it as the start of negotiation.So, what does the BJP understand about winning that the Congress keeps having to relearn? The BJP’s favourite trickThe BJP’s approach to choosing chief ministers since 2014 has followed a clear pattern. When the party wins a state, it often avoids picking the obvious frontrunner. Instead, it gives the top post to someone who may not be well known outside the state but has worked at the grassroots level or closely with the local leadership.The idea behind this strategy is simple. It prevents regional strongmen from becoming too powerful. It also ensures that the victory is seen as a mandate for the party and its central leadership, not for a local leader. At the same time, it sends a message to party workers that loyalty to the organisation matters more than personal ambition.The track record backs this up. When the BJP won Haryana in 2014, it went with Manohar Lal Khattar, a first-time MLA. When it replaced Vijay Rupani in Gujarat in 2021, Bhupendra Patel, another first-term MLA, got the job. In December 2023, after sweeping Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the BJP sent a clear message about its changing leadership model. Despite delivering major victories, veterans Vasundhara Raje, Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Raman Singh were all passed over for the top job. Instead, the party chose relatively low-profile leaders, Bhajan Lal Sharma, Mohan Yadav and Vishnu Deo Sai, signalling its preference for fresh faces over entrenched regional heavyweights. Add Tripura’s Biplab Deb, Uttarakhand’s Pushkar Singh Dhami, Manipur’s N Biren Singh and Tripura’s Manik Saha to the list. These were not household names outside their states. However, they were chosen to govern quietly under the BJP’s national banner while the central leadership held the real reins.The BJP does sometimes allow strong regional leaders to emerge. Yogi Adityanath in Uttar Pradesh is the clearest example; leaders like Devendra Fadnavis, who have worked in the RSS ecosystem for decades, were also rewarded with the top post. But that usually happens after the party is already firmly established there. What Congress does insteadBefore getting into why these Assam and Bengal cases differ from the party’s normal approach, it is worth looking at what the BJP’s tightly controlled chief minister selection process is designed to avoid: prolonged public power struggles after an electoral win.That contrast was visible after Karnataka in 2023, when the Indian National Congress spent days in an open tussle between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar. Both leaders lobbied legislators, both made their case to Delhi, and the internal contest played out in full public view. Siddaramaiah eventually became chief minister, while Shivakumar was accommodated as deputy; however, their rivalry continues to make headlines even today.It was also not an isolated episode. After winning Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh in 2018, the Congress turned each victory into a drawn-out negotiation over leadership. In Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath and Jyotiraditya Scindia were locked in a bitter contest for control. In Rajasthan, the feud between Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot lasted longer than the government itself, nearly bringing it down in 2020.Now, in May 2026, the same drama played out in Kerala. The Congress-led United Democratic Front won a huge victory, taking 102 seats in the 140-member assembly, with the Congress alone winning 63. But even after such a clear mandate, the party took ten days to announce V. D. Satheesan as the state’s new chief minister, while other states that went to the polls had already named their CMs. The contest had narrowed to three names: AICC general secretary KC Venugopal, leader of the opposition in the assembly VD Satheesan and senior leader Ramesh Chennithala. Intense lobbying, competing camps and differing views within the party reportedly prolonged the process, even as other states that went to the polls had already finalised their chief ministers. Meetings between Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and senior Congress leaders continued deep into the week, while the prolonged uncertainty triggered memes, online mockery and growing frustration among party workers.When the announcement finally came, Satheesan had long appeared to be the obvious frontrunner. Himanta first, then SuvenduSo why did the BJP break from its own playbook in both Assam and Bengal?The answer is simpler than it looks: it did not, really. The playbook was never about picking unknown faces. It was about picking people who would not overshadow the central leadership or build independent power centres. Himanta Biswa Sarma is the template. He joined the BJP from the Congress in 2015 and spent years building the party’s footprint across the northeast as convener of the North East Democratic Alliance. By the time the BJP won Assam in 2021, he was the clear frontrunner for the top spot. He was the reason the party had the numbers to win. The central leadership recognised that and acted accordingly.Suvendu Adhikari’s path to the Bengal CM post follows the same logic.Adhikari’s political career began in the Congress before he moved with his family to the TMC when Mamata Banerjee formed the party in 1998. He was at the heart of the Nandigram agitation in 2007, the movement that broke the Left Front’s grip on rural Bengal and made Mamata a genuine mass leader. He won the Tamluk Lok Sabha seat in 2009 and held it in 2014. In 2016, he shifted to state politics, won Nandigram and went into Mamata’s cabinet as Transport Minister, later also handling Irrigation and Water Resources. His break with the TMC in late 2020, driven in part by his discomfort with the growing role of Mamata’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee within the party, was the single biggest jolt the TMC received before the 2021 elections. He joined the BJP at a rally in Midnapore alongside Amit Shah in December 2020.Then came the defining moments. In 2021, he contested against Mamata Banerjee in Nandigram, her chosen constituency, and defeated her by 1,956 votes. Five years later, in 2026, he did it again, this time in Bhabanipur, Mamata’s traditional stronghold, beating her by over 15,000 votes. He also won Nandigram simultaneously.The inside man advantageWhat makes Adhikari’s appointment particularly significant is not just what he did to the TMC, but what he knows about it.He spent over two decades building the Trinamool Congress from the ground up. He knows how rural networks function, how district power structures are wired, and who the key operators are at the booth level across multiple districts.This matters enormously for what comes next. The BJP’s victory in Bengal is not the end of the story; it is the beginning of a consolidation challenge. The TMC’s grassroots organisation, built painstakingly over 15 years, did not disappear overnight when it lost the polls. The party workers, the district leaders, the local strongmen who ran things under the TMC, they are all still there, and many of them are now looking at which way the wind is blowing.What’s nextIn the end, the contrast between Bengal and Kerala was not really about Suvendu Adhikari or VD Satheesan. It was about what happens inside two parties the moment victory arrives.The BJP treats power like a system. Decisions are centralised, hierarchy is clear and uncertainty is minimised. Sometimes that means surprise chief ministers. Sometimes, as in Assam and Bengal, it means recognising when a leader has become too politically important to ignore. But either way, the party moves quickly, projects authority and ensures the focus stays on the organisation.The Congress still struggles with that instinct. Even after major victories, it often appears trapped in negotiation, balancing factions instead of controlling them. What should look like confidence instead begins to resemble hesitation. The BJP treats power as something to be seized and organised; the Congress still treats it as something to be negotiated and shared. One has a system. The other has a conversation.About the AuthorVivek DubeyA digital news desk journalist at The Times of India with over two years of experience. Closely tracks foreign affairs and international politics. Fondness for precise language and clever headlines. 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