Darjeeling tea industry expected to witness higher first flush crop than last two years
In the last 2 years the industry had suffered significant crop losses for the high-value first flush teas due to prolonged dry spell
Kolkata, May 4:In a mandate as sweeping as it is symbolic, the BJP on Monday scripted history by winning 202 seats to secure more than a two-thirds majority in the West Bengal assembly polls, ending the TMCs 15-year rule, and decisively shifting the states ideological and political centre of gravity. The verdict acquired added political drama and symbolic heft as Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was defeated in the prestigious Bhabanipur seat by BJPs Suvendu Adhikari, capping a stunning turnaround after initial trends appeared to favour the TMC supremo. What began as tentative early leads soon hardened into a decisive wave, with the BJP winning 202 seats and leading in five, while the TMC trailed far behind, managing to win 73 and leading in eight seats, according to Election Commission data at 11.10pm. The scale, spread and speed of the BJP surge -breaching the halfway mark of 148 in the 294-member House well before counting reached its midpoint- pointed not merely to a change of guard but to a structural realignment in Bengal politics. For the first time since 1972, West Bengal appears set to be governed by a party that is also in power at the Centre -a shift with deep administrative and political implications. The result also marked the BJPs decisive breach of its last major eastern bastion, completing its saffron arc across 'Anga, Banga and Kalinga' (Bihar, Bengal and Odisha) and significantly altering the national political balance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the mandate, saying the Lotus blooms in West Bengal and that the party would work to fulfil the aspirations of the people. At the heart of the BJPs campaign was Modi himself, whose high-voltage rallies and direct voter connect made him the central face of the partys push in Bengal, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah functioned as the chief strategist -stitching together booth-level networks, candidate selection and social coalitions. The partys rise in Bengal has been neither sudden nor accidental. Since its 2019 Lok Sabha breakthrough, the BJP has treated the state not merely as another electoral target but as a political and ideological challenge. From a marginal vote share of around four per cent in 2011, the BJP surged to nearly 40 per cent in 2019 and then secured 77 seats in the 2021 Assembly elections, displacing the Left and Congress as the principal challenger to the TMC. Yet, converting that expansion into power had remained elusive until now. As counting progressed through the day, early leads consolidated into a near sweep. The BJPs advance cut across geographies -from north Bengal to Junglemahal to south Bengal, from border districts to industrial belt- indicating a statewide wave rather than region-specific gains. Seats such as Dinhata, Gosaba, Baghmundi, Bankura, Binpur and Nayagram pointed to deep inroads in tribal and rural belts, while gains in Asansol Dakshin, Durgapur Purba and other urban pockets reflected consolidation in industrial and semi-urban regions. Early wins in Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Monteswar, Bhatar, Medinipur and Asansol Dakshin reinforced the breadth of the surge. In contrast, the TMCs resistance appeared fragmented. District-level patterns pointed to a sharp erosion, with the TMC struggling to hold ground in several regions of north Bengal and Junglemahal. The vote share data underscored the depth of the shift. The BJPs vote share climbed to around 45 per cent from 38 per cent in 2021, while the TMCs dropped to nearly 40.94 per cent from 48 percent. A key point lay in the 177 constituencies where voter deletions had exceeded past victory margins -a latent factor that appears to have translated into a decisive political shift. In these seats, the BJP not only retained its earlier gains but also made significant inroads into TMC-held territories, suggesting a deeper realignment rather than a mere swing. The scale of the setback was also reflected in the fortunes of senior TMC leaders. At least 20 ministers were defeated, including Bratya Basu, Manas Ranjan Bhunia, Shashi Panja and Chandrima Bhattacharya. In Sabang, Bhunia, a multi-term winner, lost, while in Dinhata, Udayan Guha was defeated. In Kolkata, BJPs Purnima Chakraborty defeated state industry minister Shashi Panja, pointing to cracks even in urban bastions. For a party that had built its dominance on welfare delivery, centralised authority and booth-level control, the erosion appeared simultaneous across organisational layers. In a dramatic, high-stakes contest that mirrored the political theatre of Nandigram five years ago, Adhikari defeated Banerjee in Bhabanipur by 15,105 votes after all 20 rounds of counting, according to Election Commission data. I thank the people of Bhabanipur for voting for me and ensuring a margin of over 15,000 votes, Adhikari said after securing victory and collecting his winning certificate. The outcome was a replay of the 2021 Nandigram election, where Adhikari had unseated Banerjee in a fiercely fought battle that reshaped Bengals political narrative. Adhikari, once a close aide of Banerjee and a key architect of the TMCs rise in districts like East Midnapore, now emerges as a frontrunner in discussions over the chief ministerial face of the BJP government. Other names, including state president Samik Bhattacharya, Union minister Sukanta Majumdar and Swapan Dasgupta, are also doing the rounds. The verdict represents a watershed moment for the BJP. From a marginal presence in Bengal in the late 1990s -aided initially by its alliance with the TMC -the party has now completed a steady climb to power and dismantled the very party that once facilitated its entry in the state, three decades ago. Politically, the Monday poll verdict reinforced the BJPs ability to dislodge entrenched regional forces. However, the mandate also brings challenges governing a politically polarised state, managing local leadership equations, and delivering on promises related to development, law and order and administrative reform. For the TMC, the verdict signals a structural rupture. After 15 years in power, the party faces the difficult transition from a dominant ruling force to an opposition formation, with anti-incumbency, corruption allegations, governance fatigue and organisational centralisation converging into a decisive setback. West Bengal, long defined by extended phases of single-party dominance, now appears to be entering a more competitive, bipolar political phase. For the BJP, Bengal is no longer a frontier; it is a governance test. For the TMC, the battle shifts from retaining power to reclaiming relevance. And for Bengal, the moment marks not just a change in government, but a reordering of its political landscape. NDA set to form Govt in Assam for 3rd straight term The ruling NDA is set to form the government in Assam for the third consecutive term after securing a two-thirds majority, with a record high of 102 seats in the 126-member assembly, while the Congress-led Opposition delivered its worst performance in recent times on Monday. The BJP, which contested 90 seats, won 82, while its allies -- the Bodoland People's Front (BPF), which contested 11 seats, and the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which fought in 26 seats -- bagged 10 constituencies each. The saffron party secured a majority on its own for the first time in the state. It had won 60 seats in the previous two polls in 2021 and 2016. In the Opposition camp, the Congress, which contested 99 seats, won 19 constituencies, while the Badruddin Ajmal-led AIUDF and Akhil Gogoi-led Raijor Dal secured two seats each, and the Trinamool Congress bagged one constituency. Raijor Dal, an opposition alliance partner, had contested 13 seats, while the other parties in the camp -- Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP), CPI(M) and APHLC -- drew a blank. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma won the Jalukbari constituency for the sixth consecutive term, defeating Congress candidate Bidisha Neog by 89,434 votes. In a major blow to the Congress, its state president Gaurav Gogoi lost in Jorhat to veteran politician and sitting BJP MLA Hitendranath Goswami by 23,181 votes. Among the prominent BJP winners are ministers Ajanta Neog (Golaghat), Ranoj Pegu (Dhemaji), Pijush Hazarika (Jagiroad), Ashok Singhal (Dhekiajuli), Kaushik Rai (Lakhipur), Prashanta Phukan (Dibrugarh), Krishnendu Paul (Patharkandi) and Bimal Borah (Tingkhong). Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary won from Tamulpur constituency by defeating former BTC chief Pramod Boro of the UPPL. Sitting BJP MLAs Mrinal Saikia (Khumtai), Bhuban Pegu (Jonai), Rama Kanta Dewri (Morigaon), Rupak Sarmah (Nagaon-Batadraba), Paramanda Rajbongshi (Sipajhar), Utpal Borah (Gohpur), Biswajit Phukan (Sarupathar), Binod Hazarika (Chabua-Lahowal), Taranga Gogoi (Naharkatia), Bhaskar Sharma (Margherita), Rupjyoti Kurmi (Mariani) and Bhuban Gam (Majuli) also emerged victorious. AGP ministers Atul Bora and Keshav Mahanta retained their Bokakhat and Kaliabor constituencies, respectively, while first-timer Tapan Das won the Dimoria seat. Among the BPF candidates, cabinet minister Charan Boro retained his Mazbat constituency while the others who won are Maneswar Brahma (Baksa), Paniram Brahma (Sidli-Chirang), Thaneswar Basumatary (Manas), Rihon Daimary (Udalguri) and BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary's wife Sewli Mohilary from Kokrajhar. Prominent Congress candidates who won the polls are sitting MLAs Wajed Ali Choudhury (Birsing Jarua), Jakir Hussain Sikdar (Pakabetbari), Rekibuddin Ahmed (Chamaria) and Nurul Huda (Rupahihat). Other winners from the party include Aminul Haque Laskar (Sonai), Joy Prakash Das (Nowboicha), Tanzil Hussain (Samaguri), Asif Mohammad Nazar (Laharighat) and Aftabuddin Mollah (Jaleswar). AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal won from Binnakandi and his party member Mazibur Rahman from Dalgaon. Raijor Dal president Akhil Gogoi retained the Sibsagar seat, while another party member Mehboob Muktar won the Dhing seat and Trinamool Congress' Sherman Ali Ahmed won from Mandia. Among the prominent candidates who lost the polls are Leader of the Opposition in the outgoing assembly, Debabrata Saikia, Assam Jatiya Parishad president Lurinjyoti Saikia, and former Rajya Sabha MP and senior Congress leader Ripun Bora. Among the 59 women who contested the polls, only six could manage to win, with four from the BJP, and one each from its allies AGP and BPF, while only one won from Congress. Polling in all 126 assembly constituencies in the state was held in a single phase on April 9 with 722 candidates in fray. UDF sweeps to power in Kerela Lotus blooms in 3 seats Kerala on Monday witnessed a sharp political reset as the state electors voted out the last Left government in the country, bringing back the Congress to the ruling saddle after a gap of 10 years, while the BJP broke through a long-standing electoral drought by winning three seats. The Congress-led UDF swept aside a decade of Left rule under Pinarayi Vijayan with a decisive Assembly victory, with the national party adding the third southern state to be ruled by it, in its kitty. The party is in power in Karnataka and Telangana. While Congress' vote share stood at 28.79 per cent, that of CPI (M) was 21.77 per cent. Congress ally IUML had a voteshare of 11.01 per cent. Apart from strong anti-incumbency against the government, the results of the April 9 polls also indicated a consolidation of support across sections of society in favour of the United Democratic Front, which had been in opposition to the Left dispensation for the past decade. The UDF won 102 seats, while the CPI(M)-headed LDF netted 35 seats, according to Election Commission data on counting of votes for 140 constituencies. The outcome also marked the absence of the Left from governance in any Indian state for the first time in five decades. The ire against the government was so strong that 13 ministers in the cabinet suffered defeat in the political tsunami unleashed by the UDF. Not only the Congress, but its key allies, including the IUML, the Kerala Congress also secured massive victory in the polls, which saw the complete erasure of the LDF in some key districts. At the same time, the LDF partners, including the CPI(M), lost many seats, while a key partner, Kerala Congress (M), was reduced to zero in a humiliating outcome in the polls. Top contenders for the Chief Minister's post, senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala and Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, won their seats with comfortable margins, setting the stage for the next step in discussions on the post. Of the 21 cabinet members, only Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, P A Mohamed Riyas, K Rajan, G R Anil, K N Balagopal, P Prasad, and Saji Cherian emerged victorious. The ministers who lost the election included Veena George, M B Rajesh, O R Kelu, R Bindhu, J Chinchurani, P Rajeev, K B Ganesh Kumar, V N Vasavan, V Sivankutty, V Abdurahiman, Kadannappally Ramachandran A K Saseendran and Roshy Augustine. LDF convenor T P Ramakrishnan also lost his sitting seat of Perambra in Kozhikode district. The BJP's bid to make strong inroads in Kerala dominated by UDF and LDF got a slight push with the party winning three seats-- Nemom and Kazhakoottam in Thiruvananthapuram district and Chathannoor in Kollam. BJP candidate from Chathannoor, B B Gopakumar, won by 4,398 votes. In Nemom, party state chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar triumphed with a margin of over 3,000 votes, while former Union Minister V Muraleedharan won Kazhakoottam with a narrow margin. Congress general secretary and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra thanked the people of the state for their overwhelming support and vowed to work diligently towards building a better future for them. In a post on X, Vadra said, To all my brothers and sisters in Keralam, thank you for your faith and for your overwhelming support. The trust you have placed in us will be the UDF's guiding force as we work hard towards building a better future for each one of you. I sincerely hope that our gratitude to you will be evident each day of the next five years as we strive to fulfil our commitments to you with honesty and humility, she added. Reacting to the outcome, AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal said the UDF's sweeping victory was a clear verdict against the arrogance, corruption, and nepotism of the CPI(M)-led government headed by CM Vijayan. Addressing a press conference, Venugopal said the outcome reflected public anger against what he termed 10 years of misrule by the Left government. He claimed that Vijayan's victory in his home constituency, Dharmadam, was only technical, alleging that the CM trailed the UDF candidate in the initial rounds of counting and failed to secure a majority in his own village. He just escaped. He suffered a setback even in his home turf. He was the only person who did not realise the people's mood in this election, Venugopal claimed. In a major political upset for the CPI(M), leaders who had revolted against the party just ahead of the polls and joined the UDF camp, including veteran leader G Sudhakaran, P V Kunhikrishnan and T K Govindan, breached the Left strongholds of Ambalappuzha, Payyannur and Taliparamba seats. CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan said the LDF would examine the reasons behind its defeat and take corrective measures. Speaking to reporters, Govindan said every aspect that led to the defeat would be analysed. He thanked LDF workers and the people who voted for the front. The LDF will evaluate and study the defeat, after which required corrections will be made. We expect the support of the people for it, he said. On defeats in traditional party strongholds, Govindan said the LDF had suffered a major setback across Kerala. We will carry out effective organisational work to correct the issues that led to the defeat, he said. BJP leader Chandrasekhar told reporters that as contended by him from the beginning his was an anti-CPI(M) election as the people were fed up with their corruption and alleged misappropriation of gold from Sabarimala. Chandrasekhar said that right from the start of the election campaign, both the Congress and CPI(M) said that BJP will not get even one seat. He also said that he knew right from the beginning that the CPI(M) will not win this time, no matter what it does. Meanwhile, the 16th Kerala Legislative Assembly will have 11 women MLAs, one less than in the previous House. The outgoing Assembly had 12 women legislators, a majority of them from the CPI(M). Vijay's TVK emerges giant slayer in Tamil Nadu Actor-politician Vijay's TVK on Monday created a record of sorts in the electoral history of Tamil Nadu and emerged as the single largest party by delivering a shock defeat to incumbent DMK and its president, Chief Minister MK Stalin in his Kolathur constituency, while the AIADMK was pushed to a distant third spot. This was the first time since 1967, when the first non-Congress government (DMK) came to power in the state, that a party other than the two Dravidian heavyweights emerged victorious in the hustings. Vijay and TVK have many firsts to their credit and the the party founder will be the first person from a minority religion -Christianity- to helm the state. While Vijay won from both Perambur and Tiruchirappalli East constituencies, his party has netted 89 seats and was leading in 18 more and is on course to become the single largest party in the 234-member House. Elections were held on April 23 and the counting of votes done on Monday. Perhaps the biggest shock was CM Stalin being defeated by a margin of 8,795 votes in his Kolathur constituency by little known V S Babu, who was formerly with the DMK and an ex-MLA. More than 10 ministers including Geetha Jeevan and Ma Subramanian were defeated. Stalin had last tasted defeat in 1991. Even Deputy CM Udhayanidhi's prospects appeared dim for a while as he trailed behind the TVK nominee in Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni. Eventually, he won. As soon as it became clear that TVK was inching towards an unprecedented, huge win in its debut polls, party workers and supporters gathered in front of party office at Panaiyur here and burst firecrackers and distributed sweets. Also, Vijay's victory and often-repeated assurance of share in power to like-minded parties is expected to open a new chapter in the history of the state and TVK supporters expect the Congress (5), IUML (2), Left parties (4), VCK (2) and PMK (5) as well to offer support and have a share in power. Together such parties have won or leading in a total of 18 seats. TVK needs 118 seats to form government. This will the first time in Tamil Nadu that a party will assume power a little over two years after its founding. TVK has clocked nearly 35 per cent (34.92) vote share in its debut polls. The TVK was launched in February 2024. While the DMK has won 48 seats and is leading in 12 constituencies (24.20 per cent voteshare), AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami won by a record margin of 98,110 votes in his home segment of Edapadi in Salem district. The AIADMK has won 41 seats and is leading in six segments (21.25 per cent voteshare). While the party's seniors, including C Ve Shanmugam and SP Velumani won hands down, many others, such as former minister P Thangamani, suffered shock defeats. Interestingly, the TVK made heavy inroads in the AIADMK's bastion, western Tamil Nadu that includes Coimbatore, even as DMK emerged victorious in some seats. DMK President and outgoing Chief Minister Stalin took the defeat in his stride and said that his party bowed and accepted the people's verdict. He said he was truthful to all sections of people and had acted as per his conscience and also worked beyond his capacity for people's welfare. He asserted that his party, which worked well as the ruling party would from now on work well as the main opposition party. Stalin said in his public life, he had seen lot of victories and defeats as well and DMK's political journey will continue without any slackness. He said ideology is important rather than victories and defeats alone. AIADMK general secretary Palaniswami said that he accepts the people's verdict in the elections. In a statement here, he said, I express my gratitude to all the people, who rose up and performed their democratic duty in the assembly elections. Stating that the people were judges here, he said, Therefore, I wholeheartedly accept the decision given by the people. He said, We will soon recover from this setback. Meanwhile, scores of tinsel town names, including 'superstar' Rajinikanth greeted Vijay on his poll show. National award winner Dhanush, musician Anirudh Ravichander and many others extended their greetings. Interestingly, among the TVK winners was actor-director Srinath, who defeated state minister P Geetha Jeevan in Thoothukudi. NDA retains Puducherry Riding a pro-incumbency wave, the AINRC-led NDA emerged victorious in the April 9 Puducherry Assembly elections, all set to form the government for a successive term. AINRC leader and Chief Minister N Rangasamy won from both the seats that he contested--Thattanchavady and Mangalam, even as the party won a total of 11 seats and was leading in one, according to latest Election Commission figures. Elections to 30 seats were held on April 9. The territorial assembly also has three nominated members to the House. NDA constituent BJP won from four seats while other coalition members--AIADMK and LJK, won from one seat each. Winners from BJP included party senior and incumbent minister A Namassivayam. The NDA's victory came on a day when actor Vijay-led TVK won in neighbouring Tamil Nadu and also emerged victorious from two seats in the UT. Puducherry, a tiny UT located about 160 km from Chennai, borders Tamil Nadu districts Cuddalore and Villupuram on either sides. Opposition DMK won five seats and Congress one. While the CM trounced Neyam Makkal Kazhagam rival E Vinayagam by 4441 votes in Thattanchavady, his pocket borough seat, Rangasamy emerged victorious in Managalam too, defeating DMK's SS Rangan by 7050 votes. This is not the first time that Rangasamy has sought to contest from two seats. He contested in Yanam and Thattanchavady in the 2021 Assembly polls. He however was trounced in Yanam and was successful in Thattanchavady. He may have to now vacate one of the seats. Key losers include former CM Ve Vaithilingam at the hands of Rangasamy. Time for change, not revenge: PM Modi As the BJP swept the assembly elections in West Bengal for the first time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the state has been finally freed from fear and that it was a time for change, not revenge, as he appealed to all parties to shun the culture of political violence and focus on the future of the state. Addressing the jubilant party workers at the BJP headquarters after the win in assembly elections in West Bengal, Assam, and Puducherry, PM Modi said the Congress, TMC, and others had been punished severely for opposing the recent women's reservation bill. He said that the Samajwadi Party would also face the wrath of women very soon, in an apparent reference to the 2027 assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh. In his nearly 50-minute speech, the PM said the elections in West Bengal had been special this year, as earlier they were marred by violence, fear, and the death of innocent people. But this time the news was different as peaceful voting took place in West Bengal and for the first time, no one lost their life during voting, he said. As Bengal enters a new phase of change, I also want to make an earnest appeal to every political party in Bengal. Over the past decades in Bengal, countless lives have been ruined due to political violence. I firmly believe that this election culture of Bengal must change from today onwards. Today, when the BJP has won, the talk should not be of revenge, but of change; not of fear, but of the future, he said and urged the parties to end the vicious circle of violence. PM Modi said it was a special day in many ways as it heralds a bright future for the country. It is a day of trust in the great democracy of India, trust in the politics of performance, trust in the resolve of stability, trust in the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat. I bow before the people of West Bengal, Assam, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and Keralam, he said at the victory celebration event where BJP President Nitin Nabin, Union ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh, among others, were present. PM Modi said on November 14 last year, when the Bihar election results came in, he told the BJP workers from this very spot that the Ganga flows onward from Bihar all the way to Ganga Sagar (in West Bengal). And today, with victory in West Bengal, from Gangotri (Uttarakhand) to Ganga Sagar (West Bengal), it is nothing but the lotus in full bloom. Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal today, in these states surrounding Mother Ganga, there are BJP-NDA governments, he said. The PM said winning and losing are a natural part of democracy and politics, but the people of the five states have shown the world why the country is the mother of democracy. He said women's participation in this election had been exceptionally high and this was emerging as the brightest picture of Indian democracy. Women power is now rapidly progressing towards building a developed India. However, a few days ago, the Congress and its allies blocked this momentum of women's power. These anti-women parties prevented the amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam from being passed in Parliament. That is why I said a few days ago that parties opposing the women's reservation bill will have to face the wrath of women. Today, sisters and daughters have punished the Congress, TMC, and DMK, PM Modi said. He said the Congress had certainly benefited from the 10 years of misrule by the Left in Kerala, but expressed confidence that the mothers and sisters of Kerala will also definitely teach the Congress a lesson in the next elections. The Samajwadi Party, which has blocked women's reservation in Parliament, will also have to face the opposition of the women of Uttar Pradesh. No matter what the anti-women Samajwadi Party does, it will never be able to wash away its sins, the PM said. Referring to Assam, he said that along with the river Ganga, the Brahmaputra has also showered immense blessings upon the BJP, and the blessings of Maa Kamakhya have been with the party. The people of Assam have trusted the BJP-NDA for the third consecutive time, he said. PM Modi said that in 2021, the NDA put forward the vision of BEST Puducherry. The people of Puducherry trusted in the vision and blessed the alliance. I want to assure the youth and fishermen of Puducherry that we will keep working for your bright future. The prosperity of Puducherry is our resolve, he said. The PM said the BJP-NDA governments are in power in more than 20 states of the country. Our mantra is 'citizen is god'. We are dedicated to serving the people; therefore, the people are placing more and more trust in the BJP. The people are clearly seeing that where there is BJP, there is good governance. Where there is BJP, there is development, he said. PM Modi said that with the BJP's victory in West Bengal, the soul of Jan Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee must be at peace now. I respectfully bow to the people of Bengal, the people of Assam, the people of Puducherry, and the people of Tamil Nadu and Kerala today; I salute them all. Today, I also heartily congratulate the countless workers of the BJP. Every small and big worker of the BJP has once again performed a miracle, has made the lotus bloom. You have created a new history, he said. After his speech, the PM held a meeting at the BJP headquarters with Nabin, Shah, Singh and former party chief J P Nadda. Result aftershocks to be felt all the way up to 2029: CM Omar Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Monday, while describing the stunning assembly election results in the West Bengal and the Tamil Nadu as political earthquakes, cautioned that their (results') aftershocks would be felt far and wide for a long time, probably all the way up to 2029. CM Omar shared this measured reaction on his personal X handle - where earlier in his instant first reaction, presumably also to the early trends vis--vis assembly election results, he actually created a flutter with his two-word tweet. Bloody hell!! was his ambiguous (the very first) tweet, which he posted with emoticons sharing an expression of disbelief on X handle at 11:01 am on Monday, May 4, 2026. Though the Chief Minister left ample scope for its (tweets) interpretations yet it was read directly in relation to the assembly election result trends by millions of his followers. By evening, CM Omars enigmatic two-word post had already garnered 1.8 million views and 23,200 plus likes. However, later, he posted a guarded post wherein he, probably hinting towards current cacophony that has crept in news bulletins, talked about his imagery of sane and sensible interpretation of the trends and results identifying them with those presented by ace veteran broadcaster Prannoy Roy. In the same post, he mentioned the after-effects of the political-earthquake that shook West Bengal and Tamil Nadu and their lingering impact to be experienced for a long time. Elections in India have always meant @PrannoyRoy7749 for sane, sensible interpretation of the trends & results and thats why today the screens in my office have been tuned to @DeKoderAI to watch the unfolding political earthquake in West Bengal & Tamil Nadu. The aftershocks of these results will be felt far & wide for a long time, probably all the way up to 2029, CM Omar posted. This post too had garnered 380,000 views 4900 plus likes by evening. Notably Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his father Farooq Abdullah, during media interactions in the past couple of days, had exuded confidence about the victory of TMCs Mamata Banerjee, even after the exit poll results, some of which had predicted her partys rout in West Bengal. As far as DMK was concerned, even the exit polls generally had not predicted the defeat of DMK. The NC is part of the INDIA bloc led by Congress. Trinamool Congress and DMK are also constituents of this alliance.
Bengal Polls: BJP Leading In 8 Seats, TMC In 2; BGPM Ahead In Kalimpong
KOLKATA, May 4: The BJP was leading in eight assembly constituencies while the TMC was ahead in two, according to early trends available on the Election Commission website, as counting of votes for the West Bengal Assembly elections was underway on Monday. The Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM), an ally of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the Darjeeling hills, was leading in Kalimpong. As per EC data, BJP candidate Lakshmi Kanta Sau was leading in Jhargram with 5,156 votes, ahead [] The post Bengal Polls: BJP Leading In 8 Seats, TMC In 2; BGPM Ahead In Kalimpong appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Siliguri Election Results 2026 News: Siliguri, a vital commercial hub in West Bengal's Darjeeling district, held its Assembly elections on April 23, 2026. The constituency, encompassing Siliguri city and its suburbs, saw a voter turnout of 77% in 2021, with Sankar Ghosh of the BJP defeating Omprakash Mishra. In 2016, Asok Bhattacharya of the CPI(M) won with an 81% turnout.
More Indians need to become tea-totallers
A Kolkata tea seller showcases a rare Darjeeling tea. This highlights the unique qualities of Darjeeling tea, often overlooked. Like Champagne, Darjeeling tea faces climate change and competition. More Indians should appreciate this heritage beverage. Better marketing is needed to elevate Darjeeling tea's global standing.
BJP Leader Raju Bista Predicts 170-180 Seats in West Bengal Elections
Gangtok, April 26: Raju Bista, the Lok Sabha MP from Darjeeling and a prominent BJP leader, expressed confidence on Saturday that the party could secure between 170 to 180 seats in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. He attributed this optimism to a significant shift in voter sentiment. Bista made these remarks while reviewing preparations ... Read more BJP Leader Raju Bista Predicts 170-180 Seats in West Bengal Elections
International Delegates Praise Voting Arrangements in West Bengal Elections
Kolkata, April 23: The first phase of voting in the West Bengal Assembly elections is underway across 152 seats in 16 districts. During this time, international representatives visited several polling stations in Darjeeling district on Thursday, inspecting the ongoing voting process alongside officials from the Election Commission of India (ECI). The polling stations visited by ... Read more International Delegates Praise Voting Arrangements in West Bengal Elections
Assembly polls: Voting begins in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu
Voting began on Thursday in 152 constituencies in the first phase of the West Bengal assembly elections, amid unprecedented security arrangements and a high-stakes battle that could shape the direction of the entire contest. Polling started at 7 am with voters queueing up outside booths in districts ranging from Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the north Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Polling begins for 152 assembly seats in 1st phase of Bengal elections
KOLKATA: Voting began on Thursday in 152 constituencies in the first phase of the West Bengal assembly elections, amid unprecedented security arrangements and a high-stakes battle that could shape the direction of the entire contest. Polling started at 7 am with voters queueing up outside booths in districts ranging from Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri in the []
Political Tensions Rise Over I-PAC Case as Harsh Vardhan Shringla Criticizes Mamata Banerjee
Darjeeling, April 22: Rajya Sabha member Harsh Vardhan Shringla has launched a sharp attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He referenced the Supreme Courts comments regarding the I-PAC case, stating that the court has indicated that CM Banerjee has jeopardized democracy. Shringla emphasized the importance of this issue for the public, especially with ... Read more Political Tensions Rise Over I-PAC Case as Harsh Vardhan Shringla Criticizes Mamata Banerjee
Amidst the high-pitched campaign for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly polls, tea garden workers have turned out to be an important constituency for political parties; the districts of Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling have about 20 seats, where the fate of the candidates depends on their support to tea garden workers.
Amit Shah Addresses Local Issues and Promises Solutions: MP Raju Bista
Darjeeling, April 21: The political atmosphere in Darjeeling, West Bengal intensified on the last day of election campaigning as Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a large public gathering. This rally was held just before the first phase of voting, which is crucial for the BJP. During the event, party leaders and local allies emphasized ... Read more Amit Shah Addresses Local Issues and Promises Solutions: MP Raju Bista
Amit Shah Issues Warning to TMC Amidst Womens Safety Concerns in Darjeeling
Darjeeling, April 21: On the final day of campaigning for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a rally in Darjeeling. He criticized the TMC government, stating that under Mamata Banerjees rule, mothers and sisters have faced significant oppression. Shah remarked that numerous false cases have been filed ... Read more Amit Shah Issues Warning to TMC Amidst Womens Safety Concerns in Darjeeling
BJP to resolve decades-old Gorkha issue within 6 months of forming govt in Bengal: Shah
KURSEONG (WB), Apr 21: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said the decades-old Gorkha issue will be resolved within six months if the BJP forms the government in West Bengal. He said no party other than the BJP could find a solution acceptable to the Gorkhas. Addressing an election rally at Kurseong in Darjeeling district, Shah said the BJP understands the concerns and aspirations of the Gorkhas and would work towards a settlement on their terms. Within six months [] The post BJP to resolve decades-old Gorkha issue within 6 months of forming govt in Bengal: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Shah To Restart WB Campaign From Darjeeling
Mr Shah will later fly to South Bengal where he will address three rallies one each at Kulti in Burdwan West, Salboni in West Midnapore and Chandipur in East Midnapore in the afternoon: Reports
Darjeeling hills to witness multi-pronged contest on diverse issues in 2026 Assembly polls
While the BJP-GJM alliance and the Trinamool-BGPM alliance are clashing head-on, a new hill party by local entrepreneur Ajay Edwards is also making its presence; along with the pertinent issue of Gorkhaland political situation, the issues of development and corruption may sway the electorate this election season
ECI rolls out Democracy Express in Darjeeling to drive voter awareness
The Election Commission of India organised a voter awareness campaign in North Bengal. The iconic Darjeeling toy train was used to encourage participation in elections. A 'Democracy Express' also traveled through Darjeeling, spreading messages of peaceful and fair elections. Cultural programs and a walkathon were part of the outreach. First-time voters were honored.
Voter Awareness Walkathon in Darjeeling Engages Community Enthusiastically
Kolkata, April 17: A vibrant celebration of democracy unfolded in Darjeeling, West Bengal, on Friday morning. Under the Election Commissions SVEEP (Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation) initiative, a voter awareness walkathon was organized, attracting enthusiastic participation from both youth and senior citizens. According to the Election Commissions SVEEP X handle, A large crowd gathered ... Read more Voter Awareness Walkathon in Darjeeling Engages Community Enthusiastically
Voter Awareness Walkathon Celebrated in Darjeeling
Kolkata, April 17: A vibrant celebration of democracy unfolded in Darjeeling, West Bengal, on Friday morning. Under the Election Commissions SVEEP (Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation) program, a lively awareness walkathon took place, attracting enthusiastic participation from both youth and senior citizens. According to the Election Commissions SVEEP X handle, A large crowd gathered ... Read more Voter Awareness Walkathon Celebrated in Darjeeling
Will resolve Gurkha issues as a priority once BJP comes to power in West Bengal, says Amit Shah
The issue of permanent political solution to the Gurkha issue, which essentially means that the administrative control of the Darjeeling hills should wrest with the Gurkha people, has dominated the politics of the Darjeeling hills for several decades since the 1980s
Amit Shah Criticizes Mamata Banerjee for Ignoring Darjeeling Issues
Kolkata, April 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on Wednesday that the West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has rejected three proposals to discuss the issues faced by the residents of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong over the past year and a half. Due to inclement weather, Shahs helicopter could not land ... Read more Amit Shah Criticizes Mamata Banerjee for Ignoring Darjeeling Issues
Will prioritise resolving Gorkha issue, withdraw cases against leaders after winning Bengal: Shah
Kolkata, Apr 15: Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday that once the BJP assumes power in West Bengal, it will prioritise resolving the Gorkha issue in Darjeeling and withdraw all cases registered against community leaders and workers for violent agitations in the past. Shah, who was unable to reach the upper reaches of Lebong in the Darjeeling hills on account of unfavourable weather conditions, addressed the gathering through a recorded video message. I am deeply regretful of not [] The post Will prioritise resolving Gorkha issue, withdraw cases against leaders after winning Bengal: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Shah Assures 'Constitutional Solution' To Gorkhaland
We will find out a constitutional solution to the Gorkha issue in Darjeeling without making any partition of Bengal. We will also build four big cities in North Bengal: Amit Shah
Villagers in Bengal Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Darjeeling, April 14: As the assembly elections approach in West Bengal, political parties are actively campaigning across the region. Leaders are visiting villages, assuring voters that all promises will be fulfilled upon their victory. However, residents of Haatighisa, a small village near Naxalbari in the Darjeeling district, express a different sentiment. They demand a government ... Read more Villagers in Bengal Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Amit Shah Promises Political Solution for Darjeeling Without Separating from Bengal
Kolkata, April 14: Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated on Tuesday that if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) forms a government in West Bengal following the upcoming assembly elections, a permanent political solution will be provided for the hilly regions of Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong, without separating them from the state. He emphasized, We will ... Read more Amit Shah Promises Political Solution for Darjeeling Without Separating from Bengal
Residents of Bengal Village Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Darjeeling, April 14: As the assembly elections approach in West Bengal, political parties are intensifying their campaigns. Leaders are visiting villages, promising voters that all their commitments will be fulfilled upon victory. However, residents of the small village of Hatighisa, located near Naxalbari in the Darjeeling district, express a different sentiment. They demand a government ... Read more Residents of Bengal Village Demand Better Education, Health, and Employment from Government
Gorkhaland back in focus as Darjeeling Hills brace for tight Bengal poll battle
North Bengal's hill constituencies are set for a tough election. The BJP, allied with GJM, faces TMC's partner BGPM. A new force, IGJF, is also emerging. The demand for Gorkhaland remains a key issue. Voters recall past promises. Alliances are crucial for resources in this region.
Five-Way Contest in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong for West Bengal Elections
Kolkata, March 31: The West Bengal assembly elections are set to take place next month, with voting occurring in two phases across 294 seats. Most constituencies will witness a four-cornered contest, but the three hill seats of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong will see a five-way battle. In these regions, the main political players include the ... Read more Five-Way Contest in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Kurseong for West Bengal Elections
Addressing an election rally at Naxalbari in the Siliguri subdivision of Darjeeling district, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee slammed the BJP for causing misery to the people by enforcing an ill-planned SIR.
TMC's Rs 300 tea wage pledge draws cautious industry response over sector viability
The Trinamool Congress pledged to increase tea garden worker wages to Rs 300. Industry stakeholders express caution, citing the sector's financial struggles. They emphasize the need for consultations involving employers, unions, and the government. The Darjeeling tea industry faces challenges from rising costs and cheaper imports.
Its Mamata vs. Suvendu again; Trinamool to contest 291 seats in Bengal polls
Ms. Banerjee said her party will contest 291 of the 294 seats. The remaining three seats will be contested by our ally, Anit Thapa-led BGPM, in the Darjeeling hills, she said
Trinamool Congress revealed its candidate list for the West Bengal Assembly elections, contesting 291 out of 294 seats. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will run from Bhabanipur, while allies will contest three seats in Darjeeling. The party expressed confidence in retaining power with a significant majority, aiming for over 226 seats.
TMC to contest 291 of 294 seats in Bengal polls, confident of winning over 226, says Mamata Banerjee
We will contest 291 of the 294 seats. The remaining three seats will be contested by our ally, Anit Thapa-led BGPM, in the Darjeeling hills, Ms. Banerjee said, while announcing the names of candidates
Darjeeling DM transferred days after protocol lapse row during President Murmus visit
The administrative reshuffle came hours after reports surfaced that the Home Ministry was considering seeking the services of the two officers in connection with the controversy surrounding the Presidents visit
Chief minister Mamata Banerjee however rejected the Centre's requisition, transferred Mr Mishra from the post of Darjeeling DM and brought him into her fold.
IMD Kolkata rain prediction: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Kolkata might receive light showers along with thunderstorms on March 11 and 12. The weather in Kolkata is expected to remain cloudy for the next few days, according to the weather department. Other parts of Bengal such as Purulia, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Malda are also likely to receive showers.
Darjeeling district officials had raised alarm over lack of arrangements at venue
In the absence of the Chief Minister and Governor, the Minister-in-Waiting should have received the President according to protocol, officials said
Mamata should resign over protocol breach at President Murmus Darjeeling event: BJP
PM Modi had insulted the President by remaining seated with veteran BJP leader L.K. Advani while President Murmu stood next to them, says the West Bengal CM, holding a dharna against the SIR in Kolkata
Protocol lapses at President event: Centre seeks response from West Bengal government
President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday (March 7, 2026) expressed disappointment with the West Bengal government for changing the venue of the International Santal Conference in Darjeeling district and not adhering to the desired protocol to receive her at the event
Any disrespect to President Murmu deeply regrettable, unacceptable: Edappadi Palaniswami
On March 7, President Droupadi Murmu expressed disappointment with the West Bengal government for changing the venue of the International Santal Conference in Darjeeling district and not adhering to the desired protocol to receive her at the event.
CM Mohan Majhis reaction came close on the heels of rare public displeasure expressed by President Droupadi Murmu over shifting of venue for the International Santhal Conclave in Darjeeling
President Murmu criticises Bengal Government for protocol failures at Darjeeling event
The State Government had also changed the venue of the International Santhal Conference, where the President was participating, citing fears of congestion
Santals contributions to freedom struggle not given due recognition: Prez
Darjeeling (WB), Mar 7: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday said the contributions of the Santals to the countrys freedom struggle have not received due recognition, and asserted that the names of several legends belonging to the community were not deliberately included in history. After inaugurating the ninth International Santal Conference at Bidhannagar in Siliguri in West Bengals Darjeeling district, she stressed the need for education for Santal children. I know how much the Santals have contributed to the countrys freedom [] The post Santals contributions to freedom struggle not given due recognition: Prez appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Murmu reschedules West Bengal visit, to travel to Darjeeling on March 7
President Murmu will visit Darjeeling, West Bengal, March 7, where she will grace the 9th International Santal Conference, being organised by the International Santal Council, says Rashtrapati Bhavan
Kolkata weather: Kolkata and its adjoining areas are likely to receive light rain with thunderstorms on Tuesday, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Howrah, Hooghly, Nadia, North and South 24 Parganas, Purba and Paschim Midnapore and Jhargram will also see rainfall today. In north Bengal, light to moderate rain is likely in Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Jalpaiguri on Monday and Tuesday.
Award For BJP MP, Language Push: Trinamool's Rajbanshi Outreach Before Polls
The Rajbanshis are a scheduled caste community concentrated in North Bengal, especially in districts like Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling, Malda, and Murshidabad.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Gets Its First Woman Traveling Ticket Examiner After 145 Years
It reflects the increasing participation of women in railway services and marks a new milestone on one of the country's most renowned heritage routes.
In 145 years, Darjeeling toy train gets first woman TTE
Sarita Yolmo has been assigned tour duty on the narrow-gauge World Heritage Site railway line linking New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling in West Bengal
EU FTA provides huge opportunities in India for non-alcoholic beverage exports: French firm Richeerz
Amidst the effervescent world of beverages, Richeerz, a French sparkling tea brand, is keenly eyeing the thriving Indian non-alcoholic drinks sector. The recent free trade agreement between India and the EU has unlocked fresh pathways for collaboration and trade. Known for their exquisite Darjeeling tea imports, Richeerz is ready to bubble over with their sparkling tea exports to India.
Surajkund swing tragedy revives grim history of ride, ropeway accidents in India
A recent giant swing collapse at Surajkund Mela in Haryana has reignited concerns over amusement ride safety across India. This incident follows a string of accidents at parks and ropeways nationwide. Past events include a Darjeeling ropeway failure in 2003, a Kankaria Park pendulum crash in 2019, and a Trikut ropeway collision in 2022.
Darjeeling Toy Train Service Hits Record Revenue Of Rs 24.6 Crore In 2025
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) toy train service is one of the most popular tourist attractions in West Bengal.
From Darjeeling to Shillong: Who Decides the Fate of Heritage?
By Bhogtoram Mawroh Tea is us. Tea is not ours. This is the name of a film made by Ugyal Tshering Lama Yolmo, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at SRM University Sikkim, which encapsulates succinctly the trap in which the people of Darjeeling find themselves in relation to an []
Prashant Tamang's final rites in Darjeeling: Wife Martha breaks down in tears as she pays...
Darjeeling singer Prashant Tamang dies of cardiac arrest
ECI clears plantation records as valid SIR documents in north Bengal, says BJPs Suvendu Adhikari
The letter shared by Mr. Adhikari stated that the Commission has conveyed its no objection to accepting tea garden and cinchona plantation records as documents for SIR 2026 in the districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, Uttar Dinajpur and Dakshin Dinajpur
Prashant Tamang dies at 43: Indian Idol 3 fame and noted actor-singer Prashant Tamang died on Sunday reportedly due to a heart attack. He was 43. Born in Darjeeling, Tamang rose to prominence after winning Indian Idol following which he launched his maiden album Dhanyavad, which consisted of songs both in Hindi and Nepali. He worked in Nepali films too. Prashant Tamang made his debut in Hindi entertainment with the role of Daniel Acho in Season 2 of Paatal Lok.
Indian Idol 3 Winner Prashant Tamang Dies at 43
Tamang, who hailed from Darjeeling and was of Nepali origin, rose to prominence in 2004 after winning Season 3 of Sony Entertainment Televisions popular singing reality show Indian Idol.
IMD warns of more chill in West Bengal
West Bengal is set for a cold spell. Several districts will experience temperatures below normal for the next three to five days. Morning and forenoon fog is also expected. Darjeeling recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 3.2 degrees Celsius. Sriniketan was the coldest in the plains at 6.2 degrees Celsius. Kolkata's minimum temperature was 10.3 degrees Celsius.
