April 29, 2026

Voters across four states and one Union Territory are now awaiting the exit poll results.Polling for Phase-2 in West Bengal held today across 142 constituencies.Trump once again criticised Iran’s approach to ongoing negotiations while reiterating his ‘no more Mr Nice Guy’ warning.Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ganga Expressway, the longest expressway so far in Uttar Pradesh.King Charles III used his first US visit as monarch to blend celebration of American independence with a push for strong alliances, democratic checks, and climate actionHere are the top 5 stories for the dayExit polls 2026: Focus shifts to projections as voting endsWith the final phase of assembly elections in West Bengal concluded, attention has turned to exit polls, set to be released after 6:30 pm in line with Election Commission of India guidelines. Strong voter turnout across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry has raised expectations ahead of counting on May 4, with tight contests anticipated in several regions. As per EC norms, exit polls cannot be published until 30 minutes after voting ends in the final phase. Follow live updatesBengal Elections phase 2 voting 2026 Live Updates: Mamata accuses CRPF of ‘atrocities’, casts ballot in KolkataAs polling in West Bengal concluded with Phase 2 on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the Central Reserve Police Force after casting her vote at Mitra Institution in Bhabanipur, alleging intimidation of party workers and polling agents at booths. “The atrocities by the central forces are unprecedented. What is happening is not at all free and fair polls,” she said. Follow live updates’They better get smart soon’: Trump warns Iran to ‘get their act together’ amid stalled nuclear talksUS president Donald Trump criticised Iran’s approach to ongoing negotiations, saying the country “doesn’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal” and warning it to “get smart soon.” “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a nonnuclear deal. They better get smart soon!” Trump said through a post on Truth Social. Read full storyGanga Expressway, UP’s longest expressway, inaugurated by PM ModiGanga Expressway, the longest expressway so far in Uttar Pradesh, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The 594 kilometres long Ganga expressway is a six-lane expressway that aims to reduce the travel time between Meerut and Prayagraj to just 6 hours! Read full storyEpstein silence, subtle messaging and NATO push: Key takeaways from King Charles III’s historic US speechKing Charles III used his first US visit as monarch to mark 250 years of American independence while navigating diplomatic strains, delivering a rare address to Congress that acknowledged differences with Donald Trump’s administration but emphasised shared democratic values, strong alliances like NATO, support for Ukraine, and the urgency of climate action, all while using humour to ease tensions. Read full storyAbout the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In Rajasthan123PhotostoriesIs your child not serious about studies? 5 parental behaviours that could be the reasonTMC’s fort or BJP’s breakthrough? The 7 districts that will decide who rules Nabanna‘Baahubali 2’ 9 year anniversary: Top 5 iconic scenes that defined Prabhas’ superstardom5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damageConfused about which color to pick for your living room? Check out these Feng Shui suggestions45°C to thunderstorms in hours — India’s wild weather swing captured in stunning visualsFrom a net worth of Rs 80 crore to a luxurious house in Mumbai: Hina Khan’s lavish lifestyle’The Lunchbox’, ‘Paan Singh Tomar’, Life Of Pi: Irrfan Khan’s iconic movies you may revisit today and always5 things travellers must do on an airplane that makes complete sense123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingCGBSE 12th ToppersExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayMI vs SRH Live ScoreRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
Voters across four states and one Union Territory are now awaiting the exit poll results.Polling for Phase-2 in West Bengal held today across 142 constituencies.Trump once again criticised Iran’s approach to ongoing negotiations while reiterating his ‘no more Mr Nice Guy’ warning.Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ganga Expressway, the longest expressway so far in Uttar Pradesh.King Charles III used his first US visit as monarch to blend celebration of American independence with a push for strong alliances, democratic checks, and climate actionHere are the top 5 stories for the dayExit polls 2026: Focus shifts to projections as voting endsWith the final phase of assembly elections in West Bengal concluded, attention has turned to exit polls, set to be released after 6:30 pm in line with Election Commission of India guidelines. Strong voter turnout across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry has raised expectations ahead of counting on May 4, with tight contests anticipated in several regions. As per EC norms, exit polls cannot be published until 30 minutes after voting ends in the final phase. Follow live updatesBengal Elections phase 2 voting 2026 Live Updates: Mamata accuses CRPF of ‘atrocities’, casts ballot in KolkataAs polling in West Bengal concluded with Phase 2 on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the Central Reserve Police Force after casting her vote at Mitra Institution in Bhabanipur, alleging intimidation of party workers and polling agents at booths. “The atrocities by the central forces are unprecedented. What is happening is not at all free and fair polls,” she said. Follow live updates’They better get smart soon’: Trump warns Iran to ‘get their act together’ amid stalled nuclear talksUS president Donald Trump criticised Iran’s approach to ongoing negotiations, saying the country “doesn’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal” and warning it to “get smart soon.” “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a nonnuclear deal. They better get smart soon!” Trump said through a post on Truth Social. Read full storyGanga Expressway, UP’s longest expressway, inaugurated by PM ModiGanga Expressway, the longest expressway so far in Uttar Pradesh, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The 594 kilometres long Ganga expressway is a six-lane expressway that aims to reduce the travel time between Meerut and Prayagraj to just 6 hours! Read full storyEpstein silence, subtle messaging and NATO push: Key takeaways from King Charles III’s historic US speechKing Charles III used his first US visit as monarch to mark 250 years of American independence while navigating diplomatic strains, delivering a rare address to Congress that acknowledged differences with Donald Trump’s administration but emphasised shared democratic values, strong alliances like NATO, support for Ukraine, and the urgency of climate action, all while using humour to ease tensions. Read full storyAbout the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In Rajasthan123PhotostoriesIs your child not serious about studies? 5 parental behaviours that could be the reasonTMC’s fort or BJP’s breakthrough? The 7 districts that will decide who rules Nabanna‘Baahubali 2’ 9 year anniversary: Top 5 iconic scenes that defined Prabhas’ superstardom5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damageConfused about which color to pick for your living room? Check out these Feng Shui suggestions45°C to thunderstorms in hours — India’s wild weather swing captured in stunning visualsFrom a net worth of Rs 80 crore to a luxurious house in Mumbai: Hina Khan’s lavish lifestyle’The Lunchbox’, ‘Paan Singh Tomar’, Life Of Pi: Irrfan Khan’s iconic movies you may revisit today and always5 things travellers must do on an airplane that makes complete sense123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingCGBSE 12th ToppersExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayMI vs SRH Live ScoreRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap


Evening news wrap: Exit polls today for 4 states, 1 UT; Trump's fresh warning to Iran & more
  • Voters across four states and one Union Territory are now awaiting the exit poll results.
  • Polling for Phase-2 in West Bengal held today across 142 constituencies.
  • Trump once again criticised Iran’s approach to ongoing negotiations while reiterating his ‘no more Mr Nice Guy’ warning.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ganga Expressway, the longest expressway so far in Uttar Pradesh.
  • King Charles III used his first US visit as monarch to blend celebration of American independence with a push for strong alliances, democratic checks, and climate action

Here are the top 5 stories for the day

Exit polls 2026: Focus shifts to projections as voting ends

With the final phase of assembly elections in West Bengal concluded, attention has turned to exit polls, set to be released after 6:30 pm in line with Election Commission of India guidelines. Strong voter turnout across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry has raised expectations ahead of counting on May 4, with tight contests anticipated in several regions. As per EC norms, exit polls cannot be published until 30 minutes after voting ends in the final phase. Follow live updates

Bengal Elections phase 2 voting 2026 Live Updates: Mamata accuses CRPF of ‘atrocities’, casts ballot in Kolkata

As polling in West Bengal concluded with Phase 2 on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the Central Reserve Police Force after casting her vote at Mitra Institution in Bhabanipur, alleging intimidation of party workers and polling agents at booths. “The atrocities by the central forces are unprecedented. What is happening is not at all free and fair polls,” she said. Follow live updates

‘They better get smart soon’: Trump warns Iran to ‘get their act together’ amid stalled nuclear talks

US president Donald Trump criticised Iran’s approach to ongoing negotiations, saying the country “doesn’t know how to sign a non-nuclear deal” and warning it to “get smart soon.” “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a nonnuclear deal. They better get smart soon!” Trump said through a post on Truth Social. Read full story

Ganga Expressway, UP’s longest expressway, inaugurated by PM Modi

Ganga Expressway, the longest expressway so far in Uttar Pradesh, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The 594 kilometres long Ganga expressway is a six-lane expressway that aims to reduce the travel time between Meerut and Prayagraj to just 6 hours! Read full story

Epstein silence, subtle messaging and NATO push: Key takeaways from King Charles III’s historic US speech

King Charles III used his first US visit as monarch to mark 250 years of American independence while navigating diplomatic strains, delivering a rare address to Congress that acknowledged differences with Donald Trump’s administration but emphasised shared democratic values, strong alliances like NATO, support for Ukraine, and the urgency of climate action, all while using humour to ease tensions. Read full story



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NEW DELHI: Exit polls for the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly election released on Wednesday predicted that chief minister MK Stalin’s DMK-led alliance is on course to retain power, though with a tighter margin than in 2021. New entrant Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has also shown signs of cutting into traditional vote bases.Three projections, place the Stalin led DMK+ comfortably near or above the halfway mark in the 234-member assembly.Note: Exit polls are just predictions based on surveys and can turn out to be absolutely wrong on the result day which is on May 4. According to P-Marq, the DMK+ is projected to win 122–132 seats, just around the majority mark, while the AIADMK-led alliance is seen at 87–100 seats. Exit Poll 2026Pollsters predict BJP win in Bengal & Assam; DMK win in TN, UDF edge in KeralaTamil Nadu exit polls: Pollsters give edge to DMK; TVK to make slight dentBengal exit poll: BJP to win 150-175 seats, early predictions sayVijay’s TVK is estimated to secure 10–12 seats, indicating a notable debut.Peoples Pulse offered a wider margin for the ruling alliance, projecting 125–145 seats for the DMK+, suggesting a clearer mandate. It placed the AIADMK+ significantly lower at 65–80 seats, while giving TVK a stronger presence with 18–24 seats, potentially enough to influence outcomes in closely contested constituencies.Meanwhile, Matrize’s projections mirrored P-Marq closely, with the DMK+ again in the 122–132 range and the AIADMK+ at 87–100. It estimated TVK at 10–12 seats, while projecting 0–6 seats to others.For the DMK, a win within the lower end of these projections would still mark a significant political milestone, consecutive terms in a state where power has traditionally alternated between the two Dravidian majors. For the AIADMK, the numbers indicate a partial recovery from past setbacks but also predicts persistent structural and leadership challenges.The spotlight, however, is firmly on TVK. While the party’s seat projections vary widely across pollsters, even the lower estimates suggest it could impact results by dividing opposition votes, while higher projections hint at a more substantive political entry.Exit polls have historically been mixed in their accuracy in Tamil Nadu, and parties across the spectrum have urged caution, noting that final outcomes often diverge from projections.Counting will take place on May 4, when it will become clear whether the DMK has managed to hold on to power — or whether the state’s evolving political landscape delivers a more complex verdict.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 MediaVideos90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In Rajasthan123Photostories‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 release: Here is all you need to knowShe thought it was stress, doctors found a hormone disorderTamannaah Bhatia serves Andy Sachs energy at ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ India screening in a dramatic David Koma ensembleJyotiraditya Scindia carries an onion in his pocket: Why Indians follow this tradition in summerIs your child not serious about studies? 5 parental behaviours that could be the reasonTMC’s fort or BJP’s breakthrough? The 7 districts that will decide who rules Nabanna‘Baahubali 2’ 9 year anniversary: Top 5 iconic scenes that defined Prabhas’ superstardom5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damageConfused about which color to pick for your living room? Check out these Feng Shui suggestions123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingCGBSE 12th ToppersExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayMI vs SRH Live ScoreRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: Exit polls for the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly election released on Wednesday predicted that chief minister MK Stalin’s DMK-led alliance is on course to retain power, though with a tighter margin than in 2021. New entrant Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has also shown signs of cutting into traditional vote bases.Three projections, place the Stalin led DMK+ comfortably near or above the halfway mark in the 234-member assembly.Note: Exit polls are just predictions based on surveys and can turn out to be absolutely wrong on the result day which is on May 4. According to P-Marq, the DMK+ is projected to win 122–132 seats, just around the majority mark, while the AIADMK-led alliance is seen at 87–100 seats. Exit Poll 2026Pollsters predict BJP win in Bengal & Assam; DMK win in TN, UDF edge in KeralaTamil Nadu exit polls: Pollsters give edge to DMK; TVK to make slight dentBengal exit poll: BJP to win 150-175 seats, early predictions sayVijay’s TVK is estimated to secure 10–12 seats, indicating a notable debut.Peoples Pulse offered a wider margin for the ruling alliance, projecting 125–145 seats for the DMK+, suggesting a clearer mandate. It placed the AIADMK+ significantly lower at 65–80 seats, while giving TVK a stronger presence with 18–24 seats, potentially enough to influence outcomes in closely contested constituencies.Meanwhile, Matrize’s projections mirrored P-Marq closely, with the DMK+ again in the 122–132 range and the AIADMK+ at 87–100. It estimated TVK at 10–12 seats, while projecting 0–6 seats to others.For the DMK, a win within the lower end of these projections would still mark a significant political milestone, consecutive terms in a state where power has traditionally alternated between the two Dravidian majors. For the AIADMK, the numbers indicate a partial recovery from past setbacks but also predicts persistent structural and leadership challenges.The spotlight, however, is firmly on TVK. While the party’s seat projections vary widely across pollsters, even the lower estimates suggest it could impact results by dividing opposition votes, while higher projections hint at a more substantive political entry.Exit polls have historically been mixed in their accuracy in Tamil Nadu, and parties across the spectrum have urged caution, noting that final outcomes often diverge from projections.Counting will take place on May 4, when it will become clear whether the DMK has managed to hold on to power — or whether the state’s evolving political landscape delivers a more complex verdict.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 MediaVideos90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In Rajasthan123Photostories‘Ted Lasso’ season 4 release: Here is all you need to knowShe thought it was stress, doctors found a hormone disorderTamannaah Bhatia serves Andy Sachs energy at ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ India screening in a dramatic David Koma ensembleJyotiraditya Scindia carries an onion in his pocket: Why Indians follow this tradition in summerIs your child not serious about studies? 5 parental behaviours that could be the reasonTMC’s fort or BJP’s breakthrough? The 7 districts that will decide who rules Nabanna‘Baahubali 2’ 9 year anniversary: Top 5 iconic scenes that defined Prabhas’ superstardom5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damageConfused about which color to pick for your living room? Check out these Feng Shui suggestions123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingCGBSE 12th ToppersExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayMI vs SRH Live ScoreRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
. NEW DELHI: The Times Internet Half Marathon brought together emerging talent, with the under-29 10-kilometer category showcasing speed, ambition, and promising athletic journeys.Securing the top position was Krishna Pal, 28, who clocked an impressive chip time of 34:00. Having started his running journey in 2019, Pal shared that his interest in the sport was sparked after reading about a marathon in a newspaper. What began as curiosity soon turned into commitment, and he has been running consistently since.Currently working with Tata Power Services, Pal noted that the support from his organization has played a key role in helping him pursue his passion. Looking ahead, he aims to represent India at the Olympics. Reflecting on the event, he said that despite participating in several marathons, the experience at this edition stood out.The second position was secured by Rajesh, who finished with a chip time of 35:40, just over a minute behind the leader. Despite narrowly missing the top spot, Rajesh remained optimistic, stating that he is focused on improving and sees each race as a step forward. He added that while this may not have been his day, the experience was both positive and motivating.Third place went to Mohit Sharma, 21, who clocked a chip time of 36:19. Having taken up running four years ago during his school days, Sharma initially started the sport out of interest. It was only after being noticed for his pace that he began to take it more seriously. He went on to qualify for national-level competitions in school and is now focused on further advancing at the national level.The under-29 category reflected a blend of raw talent and growing ambition, with runners at different stages of their journeys coming together on a common platform.As the race unfolded across the capital, the category highlighted not just performance but also the aspirations driving the next generation of athletes, each step bringing them closer to their goals.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In Rajasthan123Photostories5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damageConfused about which color to pick for your living room? Check out these Feng Shui suggestions45°C to thunderstorms in hours — India’s wild weather swing captured in stunning visualsFrom a net worth of Rs 80 crore to a luxurious house in Mumbai: Hina Khan’s lavish lifestyle’The Lunchbox’, ‘Paan Singh Tomar’, Life Of Pi: Irrfan Khan’s iconic movies you may revisit today and always5 things travellers must do on an airplane that makes complete senseBeat the heat indoors: 5 smart design hacks that actually workIndia’s Skyline Giants: Top 10 tallest residential buildings transforming urban real estateBarry Keoghan and Sabrina Carpenter: Look inside their high-profile celebrity romance, breakup, and cheating rumours123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingTelangana Class 10 SSC resultExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayShreyas iyerRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

. NEW DELHI: The Times Internet Half Marathon brought together emerging talent, with the under-29 10-kilometer category showcasing speed, ambition, and promising athletic journeys.Securing the top position was Krishna Pal, 28, who clocked an impressive chip time of 34:00. Having started his running journey in 2019, Pal shared that his interest in the sport was sparked after reading about a marathon in a newspaper. What began as curiosity soon turned into commitment, and he has been running consistently since.Currently working with Tata Power Services, Pal noted that the support from his organization has played a key role in helping him pursue his passion. Looking ahead, he aims to represent India at the Olympics. Reflecting on the event, he said that despite participating in several marathons, the experience at this edition stood out.The second position was secured by Rajesh, who finished with a chip time of 35:40, just over a minute behind the leader. Despite narrowly missing the top spot, Rajesh remained optimistic, stating that he is focused on improving and sees each race as a step forward. He added that while this may not have been his day, the experience was both positive and motivating.Third place went to Mohit Sharma, 21, who clocked a chip time of 36:19. Having taken up running four years ago during his school days, Sharma initially started the sport out of interest. It was only after being noticed for his pace that he began to take it more seriously. He went on to qualify for national-level competitions in school and is now focused on further advancing at the national level.The under-29 category reflected a blend of raw talent and growing ambition, with runners at different stages of their journeys coming together on a common platform.As the race unfolded across the capital, the category highlighted not just performance but also the aspirations driving the next generation of athletes, each step bringing them closer to their goals.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In Rajasthan123Photostories5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damageConfused about which color to pick for your living room? Check out these Feng Shui suggestions45°C to thunderstorms in hours — India’s wild weather swing captured in stunning visualsFrom a net worth of Rs 80 crore to a luxurious house in Mumbai: Hina Khan’s lavish lifestyle’The Lunchbox’, ‘Paan Singh Tomar’, Life Of Pi: Irrfan Khan’s iconic movies you may revisit today and always5 things travellers must do on an airplane that makes complete senseBeat the heat indoors: 5 smart design hacks that actually workIndia’s Skyline Giants: Top 10 tallest residential buildings transforming urban real estateBarry Keoghan and Sabrina Carpenter: Look inside their high-profile celebrity romance, breakup, and cheating rumours123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingTelangana Class 10 SSC resultExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayShreyas iyerRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
NEW DELHI: With voting now almost over in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and the Union Territory of Puducherry, focus is quietly shifting to the much-awaited exit polls. The exit polls or opinion polls are usually released starting half an hour after polling ends and give an early idea of how people may have voted.Exit polls often shape the first narrative on who could win, but they are not always accurate. In past elections, some have got the overall trend right, while others have been far off the final results.The last round of assembly elections across five states: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Puducherry and West Bengal, offers a useful benchmark. Here’s what the assembly polls exit polls for Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal predicted the last time:KeralaExit polls in Kerala correctly anticipated a victory for the Left Democratic Front (LDF), but underestimated its dominance. The average of polls placed the LDF at around 82 seats, while the United Democratic Front (UDF) was projected to win about 56.The final results, however, showed a much stronger performance by the LDF, which secured 99 seats—17 more than the projection. The UDF, on the other hand, managed only 41 seats, falling short by 15. Tamil NaduIn Tamil Nadu, exit polls were broadly accurate in predicting a win for the DMK-led alliance, though they slightly overestimated its scale. The average projection gave the DMK+ around 166 seats, compared to the actual 159. The AIADMK+ alliance was projected to win about 63 seats but performed better than expected with 75 seats—12 more than predicted. While the overall verdict was correctly forecast, exit polls did not fully capture the resilience of the AIADMK-led bloc.AssamAssam stood out as one of the most accurately predicted elections. Exit polls projected the BJP-led NDA to win around 71 seats, while the Congress-led alliance was expected to secure about 54.The final results were remarkably close to these estimates. The NDA won 75 seats, just four more than projected, while the opposition alliance secured 50, only slightly below expectations.PuducherryIn Puducherry, exit polls correctly predicted an NDA victory but overestimated its seat tally. The average projection gave the NDA around 21 seats, compared to the actual 16.The UPA’s performance matched predictions more closely, winning 9 seats as expected. However, the biggest gap came from independents.West BengalWest Bengal was the biggest outlier, with exit polls failing to predict both the scale and clarity of the mandate. The average of polls suggested a competitive race, projecting around 155 seats for the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and 126 for the BJP-led NDA.In reality, the TMC secured a sweeping victory with 216 seats—61 more than projected—while the NDA managed just 77 seats, falling short by 49. The Congress-led alliance was expected to win around 12 seats but ended up with just one.Taken together, the five states present a mixed picture of exit poll accuracy. While states like Assam and Tamil Nadu saw reasonably accurate forecasts in terms of overall direction, Kerala and Puducherry revealed gaps in estimating margins and seat shares. West Bengal reflected a clear miss on the mandate.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 MediaVideos90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In Rajasthan123Photostories5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damageConfused about which color to pick for your living room? Check out these Feng Shui suggestions45°C to thunderstorms in hours — India’s wild weather swing captured in stunning visualsFrom a net worth of Rs 80 crore to a luxurious house in Mumbai: Hina Khan’s lavish lifestyle’The Lunchbox’, ‘Paan Singh Tomar’, Life Of Pi: Irrfan Khan’s iconic movies you may revisit today and always5 things travellers must do on an airplane that makes complete senseBeat the heat indoors: 5 smart design hacks that actually workIndia’s Skyline Giants: Top 10 tallest residential buildings transforming urban real estateBarry Keoghan and Sabrina Carpenter: Look inside their high-profile celebrity romance, breakup, and cheating rumours123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingTelangana Class 10 SSC resultExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayShreyas iyerRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: With voting now almost over in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and the Union Territory of Puducherry, focus is quietly shifting to the much-awaited exit polls. The exit polls or opinion polls are usually released starting half an hour after polling ends and give an early idea of how people may have voted.Exit polls often shape the first narrative on who could win, but they are not always accurate. In past elections, some have got the overall trend right, while others have been far off the final results.The last round of assembly elections across five states: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Puducherry and West Bengal, offers a useful benchmark. Here’s what the assembly polls exit polls for Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal predicted the last time:KeralaExit polls in Kerala correctly anticipated a victory for the Left Democratic Front (LDF), but underestimated its dominance. The average of polls placed the LDF at around 82 seats, while the United Democratic Front (UDF) was projected to win about 56.The final results, however, showed a much stronger performance by the LDF, which secured 99 seats—17 more than the projection. The UDF, on the other hand, managed only 41 seats, falling short by 15. Tamil NaduIn Tamil Nadu, exit polls were broadly accurate in predicting a win for the DMK-led alliance, though they slightly overestimated its scale. The average projection gave the DMK+ around 166 seats, compared to the actual 159. The AIADMK+ alliance was projected to win about 63 seats but performed better than expected with 75 seats—12 more than predicted. While the overall verdict was correctly forecast, exit polls did not fully capture the resilience of the AIADMK-led bloc.AssamAssam stood out as one of the most accurately predicted elections. Exit polls projected the BJP-led NDA to win around 71 seats, while the Congress-led alliance was expected to secure about 54.The final results were remarkably close to these estimates. The NDA won 75 seats, just four more than projected, while the opposition alliance secured 50, only slightly below expectations.PuducherryIn Puducherry, exit polls correctly predicted an NDA victory but overestimated its seat tally. The average projection gave the NDA around 21 seats, compared to the actual 16.The UPA’s performance matched predictions more closely, winning 9 seats as expected. However, the biggest gap came from independents.West BengalWest Bengal was the biggest outlier, with exit polls failing to predict both the scale and clarity of the mandate. The average of polls suggested a competitive race, projecting around 155 seats for the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and 126 for the BJP-led NDA.In reality, the TMC secured a sweeping victory with 216 seats—61 more than projected—while the NDA managed just 77 seats, falling short by 49. The Congress-led alliance was expected to win around 12 seats but ended up with just one.Taken together, the five states present a mixed picture of exit poll accuracy. While states like Assam and Tamil Nadu saw reasonably accurate forecasts in terms of overall direction, Kerala and Puducherry revealed gaps in estimating margins and seat shares. West Bengal reflected a clear miss on the mandate.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 MediaVideos90-Year-Old Rejects Apology, Then Court Pushes ₹20 Crore Case to 2046Ganga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In Rajasthan123Photostories5 Pokémon that secretly exist in the real world“I’ve been smoking for years and I’m fine”: What doctors say about delayed damageConfused about which color to pick for your living room? Check out these Feng Shui suggestions45°C to thunderstorms in hours — India’s wild weather swing captured in stunning visualsFrom a net worth of Rs 80 crore to a luxurious house in Mumbai: Hina Khan’s lavish lifestyle’The Lunchbox’, ‘Paan Singh Tomar’, Life Of Pi: Irrfan Khan’s iconic movies you may revisit today and always5 things travellers must do on an airplane that makes complete senseBeat the heat indoors: 5 smart design hacks that actually workIndia’s Skyline Giants: Top 10 tallest residential buildings transforming urban real estateBarry Keoghan and Sabrina Carpenter: Look inside their high-profile celebrity romance, breakup, and cheating rumours123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingTelangana Class 10 SSC resultExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayShreyas iyerRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

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NEW DELHI: Bhabanipur constituency witnessed high-voltage drama as chief minister Mamata Banerjee and her arch-rival Suvendu Adhikari traded barbs at each other amid the ongoing polling for the second phase of the West Bengal assembly elections.As voting began on Wednesday, Mamata and Suvendu landed in the same polling booth area and took swipes at one another without any direct interaction.Mamata broke convention this time and hit the ground before 8 am, signalling the political stakes attached to the constituency and the larger battle for south Bengal.Though they did not come face-to-face or exchange courtesies, the two rival candidates were briefly in the same area in ward number 70 of Chakraberia, where Banerjee was seated outside a local party office after receiving complaints of alleged intimidation of local TMC leaders.As Mamata remained on the verandah of the party office, Adhikari arrived on the road just opposite the spot, accompanied by a large contingent of central forces personnel, and launched an attack on the chief minister, claiming she had realised that “not a single vote” was coming her way.Mamata alleges ‘poll rigging’, Suvendu dismisses claimMamata accused the BJP of trying to rig the elections by using central forces, police observers and election officials.“The BJP wants to rig this election. Elections in West Bengal are usually peaceful. Is there goonda raj here?” Mamata said.“Several observers have come from outside and are acting as per the BJP’s directions. They are going to police stations and creating pressure. They are calling for the arrest of all TMC agents. My party’s youth president was picked up this morning and later released,” she alleged.Meanwhile, Suvendu refuted the chief minister’s claim as a sign of “frustration”, saying that Mamata was “scared” because state police no longer controlled the polling process.“Mamata is scared. Her police have been replaced by central forces, which is why she is scared. The EC has deployed CAPFs here, so if she has any problem, she should approach them. Why have 40–50 people come with her?” Adhikari said.Adhikari also accused Mamata of moving around with “50–60 goons” despite prohibitory orders under section 163 being in force.“Banerjee is a candidate. She can certainly visit booths. But why this ‘goodagardi’ (hooliganism)? I have complained to the Kolkata DEO. No one will be allowed to indulge in intimidation this time,” he said.’These are not voters but outsiders’Later in the day, Suvendu also alleged that he was surrounded and an attempt was made to attack him by TMC supporters during his visit to a polling booth.According to Suvendu, the incident took place when he arrived to inspect a polling station, following which a group of TMC supporters raised slogans of “Jai Bengal” and allegedly surrounded him.“I am visiting the booth.”The situation escalated on the ground, prompting intervention by security personnel deployed at the site. Central forces allegedly resorted to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd and bring the situation under control.Polling began at 7 am across key districts including Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, Nadia, and North and South 24 Parganas, with voters queuing up early at several booths. More than 3.2 crore electors are eligible to vote, with 41,001 polling stations under tight security and webcasting surveillance.Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to voters to turn out in record numbers, particularly urging women and young people to participate and strengthen democracy.The phase is seen as decisive, covering the TMC’s traditional stronghold in south Bengal, where it had dominated in 2021. For the BJP, making gains here remains critical to mounting a serious challenge. Voting will continue till 6 pm, with results due on May 4.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 MediaVideosGanga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands123PhotostoriesFrom a net worth of Rs 80 crore to a luxurious house in Mumbai: Hina Khan’s lavish lifestyle’The Lunchbox’, ‘Paan Singh Tomar’, Life Of Pi: Irrfan Khan’s iconic movies you may revisit today and always5 things travellers must do on an airplane that makes complete senseBeat the heat indoors: 5 smart design hacks that actually workIndia’s Skyline Giants: Top 10 tallest residential buildings transforming urban real estateBarry Keoghan and Sabrina Carpenter: Look inside their high-profile celebrity romance, breakup, and cheating rumours’Kara’: Five solid reasons why Dhanush and Vignesh Raja’s film is a must-watch in theatresRashmika Mandanna didn’t just wear a Rs 1.68 lakh Mrunalini Rao saree, she declared fashion bankruptcy for everyone elseGK fact of the day: From corpse flower skunk cabbage, 5 flowers that look beautiful but smell horribleDo you yawn mid-conversation? Your body might be trying to tell you something123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingTelangana Class 10 SSC resultExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayShreyas iyerRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: Bhabanipur constituency witnessed high-voltage drama as chief minister Mamata Banerjee and her arch-rival Suvendu Adhikari traded barbs at each other amid the ongoing polling for the second phase of the West Bengal assembly elections.As voting began on Wednesday, Mamata and Suvendu landed in the same polling booth area and took swipes at one another without any direct interaction.Mamata broke convention this time and hit the ground before 8 am, signalling the political stakes attached to the constituency and the larger battle for south Bengal.Though they did not come face-to-face or exchange courtesies, the two rival candidates were briefly in the same area in ward number 70 of Chakraberia, where Banerjee was seated outside a local party office after receiving complaints of alleged intimidation of local TMC leaders.As Mamata remained on the verandah of the party office, Adhikari arrived on the road just opposite the spot, accompanied by a large contingent of central forces personnel, and launched an attack on the chief minister, claiming she had realised that “not a single vote” was coming her way.Mamata alleges ‘poll rigging’, Suvendu dismisses claimMamata accused the BJP of trying to rig the elections by using central forces, police observers and election officials.“The BJP wants to rig this election. Elections in West Bengal are usually peaceful. Is there goonda raj here?” Mamata said.“Several observers have come from outside and are acting as per the BJP’s directions. They are going to police stations and creating pressure. They are calling for the arrest of all TMC agents. My party’s youth president was picked up this morning and later released,” she alleged.Meanwhile, Suvendu refuted the chief minister’s claim as a sign of “frustration”, saying that Mamata was “scared” because state police no longer controlled the polling process.“Mamata is scared. Her police have been replaced by central forces, which is why she is scared. The EC has deployed CAPFs here, so if she has any problem, she should approach them. Why have 40–50 people come with her?” Adhikari said.Adhikari also accused Mamata of moving around with “50–60 goons” despite prohibitory orders under section 163 being in force.“Banerjee is a candidate. She can certainly visit booths. But why this ‘goodagardi’ (hooliganism)? I have complained to the Kolkata DEO. No one will be allowed to indulge in intimidation this time,” he said.’These are not voters but outsiders’Later in the day, Suvendu also alleged that he was surrounded and an attempt was made to attack him by TMC supporters during his visit to a polling booth.According to Suvendu, the incident took place when he arrived to inspect a polling station, following which a group of TMC supporters raised slogans of “Jai Bengal” and allegedly surrounded him.“I am visiting the booth.”The situation escalated on the ground, prompting intervention by security personnel deployed at the site. Central forces allegedly resorted to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd and bring the situation under control.Polling began at 7 am across key districts including Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, Nadia, and North and South 24 Parganas, with voters queuing up early at several booths. More than 3.2 crore electors are eligible to vote, with 41,001 polling stations under tight security and webcasting surveillance.Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to voters to turn out in record numbers, particularly urging women and young people to participate and strengthen democracy.The phase is seen as decisive, covering the TMC’s traditional stronghold in south Bengal, where it had dominated in 2021. For the BJP, making gains here remains critical to mounting a serious challenge. Voting will continue till 6 pm, with results due on May 4.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 MediaVideosGanga Expressway Inaugurated: What ₹1,500 Toll Gets You on UP’s 594-km High-Speed Corridor | PM ModiUAE Quits OPEC In Big Oil Shake-Up: What It Means For India‘Siddaramaiah Ready To Step Down As Karnataka CM If Rahul Gandhi Asks’: Ex-Minister RajannaBengal Phase 2 Polls: 142 Constituencies Vote Today, Over 3.21 Crore Voters to DecideChokepoints of Power: how India can ‘trump’ China on the seasSwati Maliwal’s Explosive Exit: Assault Allegations, ‘Betrayal’ Charges Rock AAP As She Joins BJPIndian Aviation Sector Warns Of Possible Shutdown Amid Soaring Fuel CostsUNGA Chief Hails India’s Global Role, Calls India’s Leadership Central To MultilateralismIndia To Receive Fourth Unit Of S-400 Missile Systems From Russia, To Be Deployed In RajasthanISRO-s Big Shift- Civilians To Join Gaganyaan Missions – India-s Space Programme Expands123PhotostoriesFrom a net worth of Rs 80 crore to a luxurious house in Mumbai: Hina Khan’s lavish lifestyle’The Lunchbox’, ‘Paan Singh Tomar’, Life Of Pi: Irrfan Khan’s iconic movies you may revisit today and always5 things travellers must do on an airplane that makes complete senseBeat the heat indoors: 5 smart design hacks that actually workIndia’s Skyline Giants: Top 10 tallest residential buildings transforming urban real estateBarry Keoghan and Sabrina Carpenter: Look inside their high-profile celebrity romance, breakup, and cheating rumours’Kara’: Five solid reasons why Dhanush and Vignesh Raja’s film is a must-watch in theatresRashmika Mandanna didn’t just wear a Rs 1.68 lakh Mrunalini Rao saree, she declared fashion bankruptcy for everyone elseGK fact of the day: From corpse flower skunk cabbage, 5 flowers that look beautiful but smell horribleDo you yawn mid-conversation? Your body might be trying to tell you something123Hot PicksExit Poll Result 2026Bengal Election 2026Bengal Poll Phase 2 ViolenceFirhad HakimBengal Poll Phase 1 Vote SurgeMamata BanerjeeCalcutta High CourtTop TrendingTelangana Class 10 SSC resultExit Poll results 2026CGBSE Class 12 ResultTelangana SSC Result OnlineIPL Match TodayShreyas iyerRaja Raghuvanshi Wife BailBengal PollsCGBSE 12th ResultIPL Orange Cap

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