VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html As drone warfare evolves, army air defence seeks to strengthen new types of aerial targets Finland’s unique literacy program: Children read to dogs and cows to build confidence without fear of judgment First to Leave, Never Far Behind: Kane Williamson and the Fab Four Waiting for CA Inter results? ICAI announces May 2026 result date- check here ‘Love & War’ heads into final stretch as Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal prepare for massive song shoot Motivational quote of the day by Walt Disney: "To be successful, you must be…" Cough Syrups Prescription: ‘This could save lives’: Doctors laud Centre’s tough stance on cough syrups | File photo NEW DELHI: Ex-BJP Tamil Nadu state president K Annamalai questioned the high-level security for NEET-UG re-exam scheduled for June 21. He said that the involvement of CRPF, CISF along with multi-level oversight with direct monitoring from the Prime Minister’s office seemed as if the arrangements were to “buy high-level, classified, military-grade software.”He said that increased scrutiny would “only add to already ballooning exam pressure” of the aspirants. Watch NEET-UG Re-Exam Gets CAPF Cover, IAF Support And Extra Time For Students”Two-tier CRPF+CISF escort with IAF airlift. 4-layer CCTV with AI surveillance. Biometric & facial recognition before entry. Multiple layers of frisking. Multi-level oversight with direct monitoring from the Prime Minister’s office. Yes, you read it right. But these are not arrangements to buy high-level, classified, military-grade software. These are the arrangements made by the Ministry of Education for the NEET retest scheduled for 21st June 2026,” Annamalai said in a post on X.”Every student would appreciate the government’s efforts to prevent paper leaks by implementing additional security measures and enhanced monitoring. But an increase in scrutiny before entry, extended frisking, and an increase in the overall exam time from 180 minutes to 195 minutes will only add to their already ballooning exam pressure,” he added.He also questioned whether the elaborate arrangements were consistent with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which seeks to reduce exam-related stress among students. He further noted reports of difficulties faced by candidates while downloading admit cards and urged authorities to ensure that logistical issues do not compound students’ anxieties.”While the government has taken measures to contain leaks, they have forgotten the additional burden they have imposed on a young student before they take up an assessment, one that they have spent months preparing for, dissolving the entire purpose of our exam system and the NEP 2020’s goal to reduce ‘Exam Stress’,” he said.”Despite all these arrangements for the examination, there are issues with downloading the admit cards, and NTA has assured students that it will resolve them at the earliest. Yes, there are challenges that demand meaningful solutions. However, I am concerned that the approach devised for the NEET retest may not resolve the issue; instead, it risks creating a new set of problems,” he added.What BJP saidResponding to his remarks, a BJP leader Selva Kumar defended the Centre’s approach, saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi had personally monitored the NEET paper leak issue while education minister Dharmendra Pradhan had been working continuously over the past month to address concerns. The leader said the security framework was formulated after extensive consultations involving multiple ministries, including the Defence, Communications and Education ministries, and was subsequently placed before the Supreme Court.”The prime minister himself closely monitored the NEET paper leak issue, and the education minister took accountability and has been working round the clock for the past one month,” he said.The leader acknowledged that students would have to spend an additional 15 minutes undergoing security checks and verification but stressed that the arrangement was temporary and aimed at ensuring a leak-free examination. “This is a one-time measure and from next time it will all be computer-based,” the leader said.The BJP leader also accused “anti-BJP forces” of attempting to politicise the issue after protests over the examination controversy failed to gain traction.”We understand that after the Cockroach Party’s protests failed at multiple locations, anti-BJP forces have now activated their newly acquired toolkit,” he said.The ministry of education has rolled out an extensive security framework for the examination, featuring CRPF and CISF escorts for question papers, Indian Air Force airlift support, AI-enabled multi-layer CCTV monitoring, biometric and facial verification of candidates, multiple rounds of frisking, and real-time oversight by the Prime Minister’s Office.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosKudankulam Unit 5 Crosses Key Milestone, Nuclear Reactor Expected To Be Operational By End Of 2026Government Raises Export Duty On Diesel, Aviation Fuel As Middle East Tensions EscalatePM Modi Receives Grand Welcome In Slovakia As Historic Castle Glows In India’s ColoursTMC Alleges BJP Role After Egg Attack On Kunal Ghosh, Questions Police ResponseIndia, Slovakia Upgrade Relations To Comprehensive Partnership; Agree On Counterterror CooperationIndia Turns Up Heat At UN, Seeks Fast-Track Security Council ReformsIndia–Oman Coordination Brings Breakthrough: Indian Crew Rescued Safely”People Began Jumping Out…”: Passenger Recounts Dreading MP Rail Accident Moments’Not Just People, Even Bangladeshi Parties Are Infiltrating’: Adhir Ranjan’s Jibe Amid TMC CrisisPM Modi Elevates India-Slovakia Ties To Comprehensive Partnership During Historic Bratislava Visit123PhotostoriesJapanese parents do this differently, and it may explain their children’s successInside Jemimah Rodrigues’ Vashi home: A look at the Indian women cricket star’s latest property purchase in Navi MumbaiNeymar and Bruna Biancardi expecting baby no. 3 together: Inside the football star’s growing family of five children with three womenThe one habit that separates high achievers from the rest, according to popular Indian founder Dr. A VelumaniFrom Lemon to Mango: 7 Fruit trees that grow well in containersInside India’s largest wooden palace: Why every traveller should visit this 400-year-old palace in South IndiaMarble vs solid wood dining table: 7 differences every homeowner should know8 most unusual structures around the world that challenge conventional building designBedroom decor: 5 budget-friendly ideas to keep your room cool this summerParenting coach uses these “Magic words” to teach children discipline: Why every parent should adopt them123Hot PicksDelhi rainForm 16Strait of HormuzGreen Card NewsUK weatherUK social media banNoida airportStock Market LiveGold rate todayTop TrendingKerala HSCAP first allotment result 2026UPSC Result PDFTelegram banFIFA World Cup 2026FIFA World Cup StandingsNagpur RapeITR Form 16CBSE 10th Second Board Result 2026Iran FIFA World Cup CoachWWE Star Bayley Miranda House opens doors to CUET-UG aspirants: Campus tours, faculty interactions planned from June 17 ‘Can someone help this child’: Fans react to Kim Kardashian’s daughter North West’s new look Ramana Reddy: Meet Ramana Reddy: The farmer who cracked the code to grow Israeli variety apples in Andhra’s 45°C heat Tum Pukar Lo: Hemant Kumar — the voice that turned silence into song | Hindi Movie News New train services to boost Purvanchal connectivity from June 19 | India News MHT CET CAP counselling 2026 registration schedule out at cetcell.mahacet.org: Check dates, list of required documents ‘Waiting for Aamir Khan’s call’: Abhinay Deo on ‘Delhi Belly 2′; drops major updates on ’24’ Season 3 and ‘Brown’ Season 2 A look at the Indian women cricket star’s latest property purchase in Navi Mumbai Can E20 petrol lead to claim rejection? Here’s what ICICI Lombard says The ‘Persian Gulf of Space’: NASA study says Saturn’s moon Titan holds vast natural gas and water reserves Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile: Why India’s ‘Tomahawk’ could be as important as BrahMos in future conflicts Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde (R) NEW DELHI: The Opposition alliance could be facing another setback, this time from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT). Shiv Sena leader and MLC Krupal Tumane on Tuesday claimed that talks with seven Sena (UBT) MPs have reached the final stage under “Operation Tiger.”According to Tumane, the seven MPs are likely to join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena before the upcoming Monsoon Session. If that happens, it would strengthen the NDA’s numbers in Lok Sabha and come soon after the turmoil within the Trinamool Congress. Watch Shinde, Uddhav Camps See BJP As Bigger Threat, Calls For Sena Reunion GrowSpeaking to news agency PTI, Tumane said, “Seven Sena UBT MPs want to join us and work under Eknath Shinde’s leadership. Sixteen of their MLAs are also in contact.”He made similar claims while speaking to news agency ANI.”Our discussion with the seven MPs (of Shiv Sena UBT) under ‘Operation Tiger’ has reached its final stage,” Tumane said.Explaining the situation, he compared it to a medical procedure and suggested that only the final step remains.”Just like when we go to a hospital for an operation, an investigation is conducted first, and reports are issued. Now, only the final date for the procedure needs to be fixed with the doctor. The operation will take place on that day,” he said.Tumane also indicated that the development is expected before the Monsoon Session begins.”This will happen before the monsoon session,” he said.While refusing to reveal further details, he expressed confidence that the MPs would eventually join the Shinde camp.”It’s not appropriate for us to share all the details. But it’s almost certain that they will join us,” Tumane said.He added that discussions have been under way for nearly a month and are now at an advanced stage.”These discussions have been ongoing for a month, but today it’s in the final stage,” he added.The claims come days after Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut strongly dismissed speculation around “Operation Tiger” and insisted that the party remains united.Political circles in Maharashtra have been abuzz with reports that seven of the nine Sena (UBT) MPs are in touch with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and could switch sides.Amid the speculation, Uddhav Thackeray held a meeting of Sena (UBT) MPs in Mumbai on Sunday. After the meeting, Raut hit back and announced what he called “Operation Wolf.””What Operation Tiger are you asking about? We are all tigers. We are going to launch Operation Wolf. We are not going to be scared. All our MPs and Parliamentary Party are intact, united and strong, and it will continue that way,” he said.Raut also said that all nine Sena (UBT) MPs attended the routine meeting chaired by Uddhav Thackeray, calling it a sign of the party’s unity.However, the development could deal another blow to the INDIA bloc, especially after the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress was rocked by a major rebellion following its defeat in the West Bengal Assembly elections, ending 15 years of uninterrupted rule.More than 50 MLAs in the assembly and over 20 MPs in Parliament have shown dissent from Didi and emerged as rebel camp, majorly weakening the TMC’s organisational and legislative strength.At least 20 rebel MPs, led by former Mamata loyalist and now rebel leader Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, have also openly extended support to the NDA in the Lok Sabha, further eroding the party’s influence at the national level.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosKudankulam Unit 5 Crosses Key Milestone, Nuclear Reactor Expected To Be Operational By End Of 2026Government Raises Export Duty On Diesel, Aviation Fuel As Middle East Tensions EscalatePM Modi Receives Grand Welcome In Slovakia As Historic Castle Glows In India’s ColoursTMC Alleges BJP Role After Egg Attack On Kunal Ghosh, Questions Police ResponseIndia, Slovakia Upgrade Relations To Comprehensive Partnership; Agree On Counterterror CooperationIndia Turns Up Heat At UN, Seeks Fast-Track Security Council ReformsIndia–Oman Coordination Brings Breakthrough: Indian Crew Rescued Safely”People Began Jumping Out…”: Passenger Recounts Dreading MP Rail Accident Moments’Not Just People, Even Bangladeshi Parties Are Infiltrating’: Adhir Ranjan’s Jibe Amid TMC CrisisPM Modi Elevates India-Slovakia Ties To Comprehensive Partnership During Historic Bratislava Visit123PhotostoriesInside Jemimah Rodrigues’ Vashi home: A look at the Indian women cricket star’s latest property purchase in Navi MumbaiNeymar and Bruna Biancardi expecting baby no. 3 together: Inside the football star’s growing family of five children with three womenThe one habit that separates high achievers from the rest, according to popular Indian founder Dr. A VelumaniFrom Lemon to Mango: 7 Fruit trees that grow well in containersInside India’s largest wooden palace: Why every traveller should visit this 400-year-old palace in South IndiaMarble vs solid wood dining table: 7 differences every homeowner should know8 most unusual structures around the world that challenge conventional building designBedroom decor: 5 budget-friendly ideas to keep your room cool this summerParenting coach uses these “Magic words” to teach children discipline: Why every parent should adopt them10 baby girl names meaning strength, bravery and determination123Hot PicksDelhi rainForm 16Strait of HormuzGreen Card NewsUK weatherUK social media banNoida airportStock Market LiveGold rate todayTop TrendingKerala HSCAP first allotment result 2026UPSC Result PDFTelegram banFIFA World Cup 2026Karnataka free electricityNagpur RapeITR Form 16CBSE 10th Second Board Result 2026Iran FIFA World Cup CoachWWE Star Bayley Jun 16, 2026, 12:22 IST How Telegram’s message-editing tool helped fabricate NEET paper leak ‘evidence’ Karan Johar enters Malayalam cinema with official announcement of ‘Odiyan’ starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and Manju Warrier Mila Kunis Parenting Rule: The screen-time rule Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher followed at home Aries Horoscope Today, June 16, 2026: Self-belief will grow throughout the day Government blocks Telegram till June 22, but MeitY’s second order targeting NEET-UG leaks is… No prescription, no cup syrup: Indian govt revises drug rules (AI photo by ChatGPT) NEW DELHI: The Union health ministry on Tuesday amended drug regulations to end the over-the-counter sale of syrup-based medicines, including cough syrups, making a doctor’s prescription mandatory for their purchase.The change comes under the Drugs (Fifth Amendment) Rules, 2026, notified by the health ministry on June 9 and brought into effect through an amendment to the Drugs Rules, 1945.Under the revised rules, the word “syrups” has been removed from Schedule K, which lists categories of medicines exempt from certain provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. As a result, syrup formulations will no longer enjoy those exemptions and will be subject to stricter regulatory requirements.The move means consumers will have to produce a valid prescription to purchase cough syrups and other syrup-based medicines that were previously available without one.The amendment follows a draft notification issued on December 29, 2025, through which the government had invited suggestions and objections from stakeholders and the public. According to the notification, all comments received during the consultation process were examined before the final rules were notified.The health ministry said the amendment was made after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board, the country’s apex technical body on drug regulation.The Drugs Rules, 1945, framed under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, regulate the manufacture, sale and distribution of medicines in India. Officials said the latest amendment is aimed at strengthening oversight of syrup-based medicines by bringing them under the applicable regulatory framework.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosGovernment Raises Export Duty On Diesel, Aviation Fuel As Middle East Tensions EscalatePM Modi Receives Grand Welcome In Slovakia As Historic Castle Glows In India’s ColoursTMC Alleges BJP Role After Egg Attack On Kunal Ghosh, Questions Police ResponseIndia, Slovakia Upgrade Relations To Comprehensive Partnership; Agree On Counterterror CooperationIndia Turns Up Heat At UN, Seeks Fast-Track Security Council ReformsIndia–Oman Coordination Brings Breakthrough: Indian Crew Rescued Safely”People Began Jumping Out…”: Passenger Recounts Dreading MP Rail Accident Moments’Not Just People, Even Bangladeshi Parties Are Infiltrating’: Adhir Ranjan’s Jibe Amid TMC CrisisPM Modi Elevates India-Slovakia Ties To Comprehensive Partnership During Historic Bratislava VisitNCERT’s New Class 9 Textbook Alters Mohenjo-daro’s Iconic Dancing Girl, Triggers Debate123PhotostoriesNeymar and Bruna Biancardi expecting baby no. 3 together: Inside the football star’s growing family of five children with three womenThe one habit that separates high achievers from the rest, according to popular Indian founder Dr. A VelumaniFrom Lemon to Mango: 7 Fruit trees that grow well in containersInside India’s largest wooden palace: Why every traveller should visit this 400-year-old palace in South IndiaMarble vs solid wood dining table: 7 differences every homeowner should know8 most unusual structures around the world that challenge conventional building designBedroom decor: 5 budget-friendly ideas to keep your room cool this summerParenting coach uses these “Magic words” to teach children discipline: Why every parent should adopt them10 baby girl names meaning strength, bravery and determination10 baby girl names meaning courage, wisdom and resilience123Hot PicksDelhi rainForm 16Strait of HormuzGreen Card NewsUK weatherUK social media banNoida airportStock Market LiveGold rate todayTop TrendingKerala HSCAP first allotment result 2026UPSC Result PDFTelegram banFIFA World Cup 2026Karnataka free electricityDelhi rainITR Form 16CBSE 10th Second Board Result 2026MPBSE MP Board Result 2026RBI Mis-selling rules UGC NET June 2026 admit card today at ugcnet.nta.nic.in after delay; here’s how to download ‘For every Dhurandhar, five expensive films will bomb’: Anurag Kashyap slams theatres for killing films like ‘Bandar’ and ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ 7 Effective remedies to please Shukra (Venus) and improve your fortune ‘Drugged, raped, filmed’: Nagpur woman alleges abuse, ‘hypnosis’ during forced conversion; video surfaces Jun 16, 2026, 12:04 IST Quote of the day by ‘The Big Bang Theory’ star Jim Parsons: ‘You learn a lot as a kid, like you don’t know anything…I thought I was gonna be in another world somehow’ Inside the football star’s growing family of five children with three women Hero offers limited-time price cut on flex-fuel bikes! Details US-Iran peace deal: What opening of Strait of Hormuz would mean for India’s crude oil supplies Brazil Bungee Jumping Incident: ‘I spoke to her’: Nurse tried saving woman in Brazil who was thrown 130 feet in bunjee jumping without safety cord K Annamalai (Image/PTI) NEW DELHI: Former BJP leader K Annamalai on Monday directed blame towards people from northern India, claiming that there has been a “growing involvement of people from North Indian states in crimes” reported across Tamil Nadu. His remarks came in the wake of the sexual assault and death of a three-year-old girl in Tiruvallur district. A 19-year-old migrant worker from Bihar was arrested in connection with the case. The child later died while undergoing treatment, sparking outrage and renewed debate over law and order and the monitoring of migrant workers in the state.In a post on X, Annamalai cited a series of recent criminal cases in which people from North Indian states had allegedly been arrested and questioned whether the Tamil Nadu government had adequate mechanisms in place to track migrant workers entering the state.”The news of a three-year-old girl child falling victim to sexual assault near Kummidipoondi in Thiruvallur district and succumbing to her injuries despite treatment has caused profound shock and grief,” he wrote.”One individual from a North Indian state has been arrested in connection with this crime. Similarly, a person from a North Indian state who sexually harassed a 10-year-old girl child in Athanur, Kanchipuram district, has also been arrested,” Annamalai added.Former Tamil Nadu BJP chief leader also claimed that there had been a noticeable rise in such incidents in recent months.”Over the past few months, there has been a noticeable increase in the involvement of individuals from North Indian states in crimes occurring across various parts of Tamil Nadu.”Just this June, a young man from a North Indian state was arrested in Chennai for attempting to snatch a gold chain from an elderly woman. Last month, cases including the sexual harassment of a young woman near Tambaram, the molestation of a woman alone at home near Thiruvallur, the gang rape of a 61-year-old woman near Chennai’s Velachery bus stand, the arrest of three North Indian labourers including a 15-year-old boy in a case of sexual harassment against a mentally challenged woman in Chennai’s Velachery, and the sexual harassment of a woman drawing a kolam outside her home in Chennai’s Maduravoyal area have raised numerous questions,” he said.While praising the police for making arrests, Annamalai said the state government needed to focus on preventing such crimes before they occurred.”The police’s prompt identification and arrest of those involved in such crimes is commendable. However, what measures will the Tamil Nadu government take to prevent these crimes from occurring in the first place?” he asked.Annamalai said movement of workers between states was natural and happened across India, but argued that the government should maintain a proper record of migrant workers employed in Tamil Nadu.”It is only natural for people from various states to come to Tamil Nadu for employment, just as people from Tamil Nadu travel to various places for work. But are there proper details available regarding individuals arriving in Tamil Nadu from other states — details held by the contractors employing them or by the company owners? Are these details provided to the Tamil Nadu government? Shouldn’t this be regulated?” he said.Calling for tighter oversight, Annamalai urged the state government to create a comprehensive database of migrant workers.”I urge the Tamil Nadu government to take immediate action on this matter. Owners employing labourers from North Indian states must furnish the government with comprehensive details, including how many such labourers are present, in which cities they are located, their native places, current workplaces and places of residence.”I strongly emphasise that the Tamil Nadu government must systematically monitor this,” he added.The comments come amid heightened political attention on crimes against women and children in Tamil Nadu. The death of the three-year-old girl has triggered criticism from opposition parties, which have accused the ruling TVK government of failing to ensure public safety and demanded stronger action to prevent such incidents.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosGovernment Raises Export Duty On Diesel, Aviation Fuel As Middle East Tensions EscalatePM Modi Receives Grand Welcome In Slovakia As Historic Castle Glows In India’s ColoursTMC Alleges BJP Role After Egg Attack On Kunal Ghosh, Questions Police ResponseIndia, Slovakia Upgrade Relations To Comprehensive Partnership; Agree On Counterterror CooperationIndia Turns Up Heat At UN, Seeks Fast-Track Security Council ReformsIndia–Oman Coordination Brings Breakthrough: Indian Crew Rescued Safely”People Began Jumping Out…”: Passenger Recounts Dreading MP Rail Accident Moments’Not Just People, Even Bangladeshi Parties Are Infiltrating’: Adhir Ranjan’s Jibe Amid TMC CrisisPM Modi Elevates India-Slovakia Ties To Comprehensive Partnership During Historic Bratislava VisitNCERT’s New Class 9 Textbook Alters Mohenjo-daro’s Iconic Dancing Girl, Triggers Debate123PhotostoriesNeymar and Bruna Biancardi expecting baby no. 3 together: Inside the football star’s growing family of five children with three womenFrom Lemon to Mango: 7 Fruit trees that grow well in containersInside India’s largest wooden palace: Why every traveller should visit this 400-year-old palace in South IndiaMarble vs solid wood dining table: 7 differences every homeowner should know8 most unusual structures around the world that challenge conventional building designBedroom decor: 5 budget-friendly ideas to keep your room cool this summerParenting coach uses these “Magic words” to teach children discipline: Why every parent should adopt them10 baby girl names meaning strength, bravery and determination10 baby girl names meaning courage, wisdom and resilience5 snakes that love swimming pools and important checks to do before plunging in that cool blue hotel pool123Hot PicksDelhi rainForm 16Strait of HormuzGreen Card NewsUK weatherUK social media banNoida airportStock Market LiveGold rate todayTop TrendingKerala HSCAP first allotment result 2026UPSC Result PDFTelegram banFIFA World Cup 2026Karnataka free electricityDelhi rainITR Form 16CBSE 10th Second Board Result 2026MPBSE MP Board Result 2026RBI Mis-selling rules Updated: Jun 16, 2026, 11:43 IST Re-NEET 2026: Temporary ban on Telegram imposed to prevent paper leak fraud ahead June 21 examination Why every traveller should visit this 400-year-old palace in South India India-made Mini Countryman C launch tomorrow: All you need to know Oil’s not well? US emergency stockpile falls to lowest level For many Bengalis of a certain generation, Mithun Chakraborty represents the change that has swept the state: he who once flirted with revolutionary Left politics, and then the TMC, now speaks the language of Hindu consolidation. Mithun Chakraborty turns 76 today – born in the year (1950) India became a Republic. And through these seven decades, he has seen and survived it all, much like the country itself. It has been possible, thanks to his inherent ability to reinvent himself that helped him remain relevant. A stunning debut in 1970s with a Mrinal Sen arthouse film, Mrigayaa, that earned him his first National Award. Followed by minor supporting roles in a few films, and then (almost) monopolising the ‘80s with the typical Mithun-da barefoot disco dancer rhythm that announced the arrival of a non-Hindi speaking, dark-skinned rank outsider as the man who had all the right moves. For the next decade through the ‘90s and beyond, he inspired many with his acting, action, and the signature hairstyle and skinny pants. Mithun Chakraborty and Bappi Lahiri had a successful innings in the 1982 film Disco Dancer. As liberalised Bollywood turned glossy with designer weddings and NRI romances, Gouranga – who took up the screen name Mithun – saw the writing on the wall. He transitioned to the supporting role in a stellar way: the mentor to Abhishek Bachchan in Mani Ratnam’s Guru, the nuanced hero battling mid-life crisis in Rituparno Ghosh’s much-acclaimed Titli, among others. And then became a frequent TV fixture as a judge on dance reality shows, his affable mannerisms a hit with the young and the old. The Art of Staying RelevantReinvention = Relevance. In Mithun’s book of life, it certainly is. His political choices, too, reflect his transformation over the years. Influenced by popular Naxal figure Ravi Ranjan, he dropped out of Kolkata’s Scottish Church College where he was pursuing a B.Sc in Chemistry to become a part of the Naxalite movement in the early ‘70s. On his return to mainstream life following then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi clamping down on the movement, he enrolled himself at the Film and Television Institute of India in Pune that gave wings to his reel dreams. Mithun Chakraborty has mastered the art of reinvention, from Naxal rebel to BJP mascot. A dream opening done in 1976 with Mrigayaa, Mithun’s career in Bollywood picked up six years later with the stupendously successful Disco Dancer. The Babbar Subhash directorial made him a household name as his character Jimmy exploded on the big screen, setting a new tempo to the beats of Bappi Lahiri. Much like the raw and vulnerable on-screen Jimmy, the tall, dark and lanky Mithun became a symbol of middle-class hope and aspiration. And soon, he was a force to reckon with: at the box office, and at the tax collection centre for being one of the highest income tax payers of India.Left is Right. Right is Right, Too.As Mithun’s success graph soared north, the actor’s Left-leaning ideology remained intact, validated by his close association with then West Bengal CM Jyoti Basu. The actor who has played the lead role in more than 300 films famously performed gratis at the 1986 “Hope ’86” cultural and fundraising event, at the request of “Jyoti Uncle”. Jyoti Basu was not the only politician whom Mithun admired. Miles away in Bombay, the actor found a guardian in Balasaheb Thackeray who helped him navigate the choppy waters of Bollywood that was notorious for according preferential treatment to North Indian actors. For Mithun, the Shiv Sena supremo remained “Daddy”, as he used to call him, till his death.In ‘Mithun Chakraborty: The Dada of Bollywood’, author Ram Kamal Mukherjee writes that “Mithun’s proximity to the Shiv Sena chief was the shield that deflected his critics’ barbs and kept his enemies at bay. With Thackeray’s affectionate hand on his head, Mithun was invincible and inspired fear and respect in everyone in Bollywood.” Apart from Netaji, two people whom I really respect and admire are Jyoti Basu and Balasaheb Thackeray.Mithun ChakrabortyDilli Chalo!After two decades in Bollywood, Mithun looked at gharwapsi (homecoming) in Bengal in the late ‘90s and did his bit to resuscitate filmdom with his home productions and acting. In his second innings, Mithun was done doing the typical hero act, romancing leading ladies. Fatakeshto and other movies showed him as the fiery, middle-aged man in saviour mode who took on the mafia, and the corruption practised by the system. In Bengal, it struck a chord. After 34 years of uninterrupted Left rule, anti-incumbency sentiment had become a powerful force in Bengal politics, and Mithun’s anti-establishment movies provided just the right spark to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) campaign in 2011. Reel met real life as he campaigned for TMC in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, three years after Mamata Banerjee ousted the Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee government to become the chief minister. In return, the three-time National Award winner received a Rajya Sabha berth from the TMC. However, things soured and he made an early exit in 2016 citing health reasons, months after the Saradha group chit scam blew up where his role as brand ambassador came under the scanner of the Enforcement Directorate. The 5-Year-ItchAfter calling it quits in the Rajya Sabha – where he hardly showed up – in December 2016, Mithun took a political sabbatical, for five years.In March 2021 as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stepped up its campaign to oust Mamata Banerjee after her ten-year rule, Mithun was roped in to revive the anti-establishment narrative. Often seen with senior BJP leader Kailash Vijayvarghiya campaigning in the rural areas of Bengal, he regaled the audience with his classic, filmy one-liners. Unfortunately, all the punchy dialogue failed to ensure a BJP win. But, like many others from the fold, the defeat did not discourage Mithun. Even as he was battling health issues, he threw his weight behind the saffron party, mobilising the booth-level workers and calling for Hindu unification, campaigning aggressively for the BJP to make its debut with a historic win on May 4 in 2026. Right at HomeCut to May 9, 2026. Brigade Parade Ground. Kolkata.Mithun Chakraborty, wearing a black cape and cap, was among the key figures seated on stage as Suvendu Adhikari took oath as West Bengal’s first BJP chief minister. His ease and camaraderie with senior BJP and National Democratic Alliance leaders suggested that Mithun had found yet another political home, completing a journey that had taken him from the Left to the Right. Much like his character in the hit film MLA Fatakeshto, remembered for the iconic line, “Marbo ekhane, lash porbe soshane” (If I thrash you here, your lifeless body will land in the crematorium), Mithun has built a career on taking on the establishment, whether on screen or off it.For more than five decades, Mithun Chakraborty has reinvented himself. Sometimes driven by ideology and instinct, and often by challenging the status quo and taking on the established, a role that he aced on screen. The rebel, the outsider, the actor, and the political campaigner – all go on to make the enduring phenomenon that is Mithun Chakraborty. For many Bengalis of a certain generation, Mithun Chakraborty represents the change that has swept the state: he who once flirted with revolutionary Left politics, and then the TMC, now speaks the language of Hindu consolidation.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorLopamudra GhatakA new-media professional who has straddled the worlds of television and digital. Has worked extensively in the Internet news space for over a decade, and has seen the rise (and fall) of Orkut, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. A news and people junkie, likes most things digital and dramatic. Is fascinated by emerging tech trends and wonders if social media is a boon or bane! Guilty pleasures include Nordic crime – books and shows – and Netflix. And an MS Dhoni fan, for life!Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTMC Alleges BJP Role After Egg Attack On Kunal Ghosh, Questions Police ResponseIndia, Slovakia Upgrade Relations To Comprehensive Partnership; Agree On Counterterror CooperationIndia Turns Up Heat At UN, Seeks Fast-Track Security Council ReformsIndia–Oman Coordination Brings Breakthrough: Indian Crew Rescued Safely”People Began Jumping Out…”: Passenger Recounts Dreading MP Rail Accident Moments’Not Just People, Even Bangladeshi Parties Are Infiltrating’: Adhir Ranjan’s Jibe Amid TMC CrisisBhagwant Mann Faces Akal Takht Rebuke; Sikh Body Summons Punjab CabinetPM Modi Elevates India-Slovakia Ties To Comprehensive Partnership During Historic Bratislava VisitNCERT’s New Class 9 Textbook Alters Mohenjo-daro’s Iconic Dancing Girl, Triggers DebateAbhijeet Dipke Allegedly Slapped At Jaipur Protest, Viral Video Shows Crowd Turning On Accused Man123PhotostoriesInside India’s largest wooden palace: Why every traveller should visit this 400-year-old palace in South IndiaMarble vs solid wood dining table: 7 differences every homeowner should know8 most unusual structures around the world that challenge conventional building designBedroom decor: 5 budget-friendly ideas to keep your room cool this summerParenting coach uses these “Magic words” to teach children discipline: Why every parent should adopt them10 baby girl names meaning strength, bravery and determination10 baby girl names meaning courage, wisdom and resilience5 snakes that love swimming pools and important checks to do before plunging in that cool blue hotel poolSushmita Sen to Mandira Bedi: 5 bollywood actresses who chose adoption and redefined motherhoodSuccess quote of the day by Egyptian footballer Mohamed Salah: “I always think about small details because…”123Hot PicksDelhi rainForm 16Strait of HormuzGreen Card NewsUK weatherUK social media banNoida airportStock Market LiveGold rate todayTop TrendingKerala HSCAP first allotment result 2026UPSC Result PDFDelhi Techie DeathFIFA World Cup 2026Karnataka free electricityDelhi rainITR Form 16CBSE 10th Second Board Result 2026MPBSE MP Board Result 2026RBI Mis-selling rules Gold price prediction today: Will gold prices rise substantially from current levels? Check June 16, 2026 outlook Rashmika Mandanna introduces herself as ‘Rashmika Mandanna Deverakonda’ at scholarship event with Vijay Deverakonda – Watch Which countries are home to the world’s deadliest Taipan Snakes? FBI warns Microsoft users of Kali365 scam duping thousands: How the scam works and how users can protect themselves ‘Egg of the Sun’: Rs 1 lakh-a-piece Miyazaki mango offered to Lord Ram in Ayodhya | India News Jun 16, 2026, 10:54 IST