For the Jose K. Mani-led Kerala Congress (M), retaining crucial seats such as Pala is of prime importance. With P.J. Joseph stepping away from the electoral fray, Kerala Congress needs a strong showing to reinforce its independent identity within the UDF

New Delhi, May 2: The Election Commission of India has announced the deployment of additional counting supervisors and police observers in West Bengal. This move aims to enhance security arrangements around counting centers and ensure law and order during the 2026 assembly elections. A total of 165 additional counting supervisors and 77 police observers will ... Read more Election Commission Deploys Additional Counting Supervisors in West Bengal

The high-stakes Assam assembly elections are set for results on May 4, with the BJP aiming for a third consecutive term under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Exit polls suggest an edge for the BJP, while the Congress, led by Gaurav Gogoi, seeks a comeback. Key constituencies like Jalukbari and Jorhat witnessed closely watched contests.

The elections have been marked by intense campaigning, shifting alliances, controversies and record voter turnout, making them a crucial test of whether Indias political landscape is moving toward coalition politics or continued single-party dominance

Chennai, May 2: The counting of votes for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections is scheduled for May 4. Ahead of this crucial event, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin held several important meetings with senior DMK leaders and coalition partners on Saturday to review the political situation and finalize preparations. Immediately after returning from a four-day trip ... Read more Tamil Nadus Chief Minister Stalin Engages in Key Meetings Ahead of Vote Counting

The Election Commission of India has deployed a large number of additional observers in West Bengal to ensure free, fair, and transparent counting of votes for the ongoing Assembly elections on Monday, May 4. According to an official press note ...

Puducherry's 2026 Assembly elections are set for a nail-biting finish with a record 89.83% voter turnout. The main battle is between the ruling AINRC-BJP NDA and the Congress-DMK alliance, featuring high-profile leaders in key constituencies. Counting for all 30 seats is scheduled for May 4.

Assam recorded over 85% voter turnout in its recent elections, with exit polls projecting a third consecutive term for the BJP led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The election saw intensified political exchanges between the ruling NDA and a divided opposition, with several key constituencies expected to witness closely fought contests.

Chennai, May 2: The Tamilaga Vetrikazhagam (TVK) has formally requested the Chief Electoral Officer of Tamil Nadu, Archana Patnaik, to ensure a peaceful counting process for the upcoming assembly elections. In a letter submitted by TVKs General Secretary, Adhav Arjun, the party emphasized the need for a significant deployment of security personnel at sensitive locations ... Read more TVK Urges Peaceful Counting Ahead of Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections

Mumbai, May 2: Congress leader Hussain Dalwai has voiced his opinions on several critical issues, including the West Bengal elections, religious events, Maharashtra politics, and law and order. Regarding the West Bengal elections, Dalwai made serious allegations, claiming that there was widespread manipulation during the polls. He stated, The BJP committed large-scale fraud in the ... Read more BJP Will Not Form Government in West Bengal: Hussain Dalwai

New Delhi, May 2: Political rhetoric has intensified amid the West Bengal elections, focusing on re-polling and electoral transparency. BJP leaders from various regions have targeted the Trinamool Congress (TMC), backing the Election Commissions decisions. In Delhi, BJP spokesperson Shah Nawaz Hussain stated, The TMC has already lost the elections; it is evident. Now they ... Read more TMC Already Lost the Elections: Shah Nawaz Hussain

Congress leaders are confident of winning the Assam Assembly elections. They believe people's trust is shifting towards Congress due to issues like corruption. Leaders are meeting candidates and discussing strategies. They also expressed concerns about the Election Commission's impartiality. Leaders are in Assam to ensure the safety of party MLAs ahead of vote counting on May 4.

Residents in South 24 Parganas protested alleged threats from Trinamool Congress cadre. This occurred ahead of vote counting for the West Bengal Assembly elections. Repolling is underway in some constituencies due to irregularities. Concerns have also been raised about EVM strongrooms. Security has been increased across sensitive areas.

New Delhi, May 2: Political tensions have escalated following the Supreme Courts dismissal of a petition filed by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) regarding the appointment of counting officials during the West Bengal Assembly elections. Various leaders have reacted to this decision. Samik Bhattacharya, the state president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a Rajya ... Read more Supreme Court Dismisses TMC Petition Amid West Bengal Election Tensions

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam leader KA Sengottaiyan has claimed the party will win 180200 seats in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, projecting a decisive mandate for party chief Vijay. The remarks come ahead of vote counting, amid contrasting exit poll predictions on the partys electoral debut

New Delhi, May 2: BJP national spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member Sudhanshu Trivedi launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) during a media briefing regarding the West Bengal assembly elections. He stated that as the elections progressed, the TMCs public support and morale steadily declined. Trivedi remarked, As soon as peaceful and violence-free ... Read more TMCs Court Actions Reflect Old Habits, Says BJP Spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi

Kolkata, May 2: NDA leaders have targeted the Trinamool Congress (TMC) as re-elections take place in West Bengal. They claim that TMC is aware of its impending defeat, prompting them to resort to fraudulent tactics, such as placing stickers on electronic voting machines (EVMs) to manipulate results. BJP leader and Rajya Sabha member Rahul Sinha ... Read more NDA Leaders Criticize TMC Amid Re-Elections in West Bengal

The Supreme Court on Saturday disposed of a petition filed by the All India Trinamool Congress challenging the appointment of Central government and Central PSU employees as counting personnel in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. A special Bench of Justice PS Narasimha and Justice Joymalya Bagchi held that no further judicial directions were required [] The post West Bengal election: Supreme Court rejects AITC plea challenging appointment of Central employees as counting personnel appeare

Kerala to have 140 counting centres across 43 locations. As many as 15,465 officials to be part of counting exercise in the State

The top court noted the ECIs statement that counting officers for the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections are selected from both Central and State Government services

Key UDF constituent Indian Union Muslim League is adopting a cautious wait-and-watch approach as Congress-led front awaits election results. Political analysts underline Muslim Leagues centrality to coalition stability, making its stance crucial in the days ahead

Tamil Nadu's 2026 Assembly elections are poised for a significant youth impact, with over 1.22 crore voters aged 18-29 forming a crucial bloc. First-time voters cite empowerment and safety as key drivers. The emergence of actor Vijay's party, TVK, adds a new dynamic, potentially influencing results in closely contested seats and reshaping the state's political future.

Kolkata, May 2: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee will address a crucial virtual meeting with the partys counting agents on Saturday, just 48 hours before the significant counting of votes for the recently concluded two-phase assembly elections. According to insiders from the Trinamool Congress, the virtual meeting ... Read more Mamata Banerjee to Address Virtual Meeting Ahead of Bengal Election Counting

Kerala's 2026 assembly elections saw a record 78.27% voter turnout, with exit polls indicating a close contest between the UDF and LDF. Attention now turns to May 4th results, with questions arising about the potential impact of the Middle East crisis on the state's deep ties to the Gulf.

A Supreme Court decision weakening the Voting Rights Act has spurred Republican officials in several states to redraw congressional districts. Louisiana, Alabama, and Tennessee are holding special legislative sessions to alter voting maps, potentially impacting upcoming midterm elections. This move follows a national trend of states adjusting districts after the ruling.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished Mr. Rai a speedy recovery. Mr. Rai, was the main opponent of Mr. Modi, in the last three parliamentary elections from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat

Washington, May 2: President Donald Trump addressed a gathering of seniors in Florida, announcing that his administration has implemented no tax on Social Security. He presented this initiative as a key policy ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. Speaking at The Villages, one of Americas largest retirement communities, Trump stated, We are here to celebrate ... Read more Trump Announces No Tax on Social Security for Seniors

Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 Voting Live Updates: The repolls were ordered in 11 polling stations of the Magrahat Paschim assembly constituency and four in Diamond Harbour.

MDMK MP Vaiko expressed skepticism about the accuracy of exit polls for the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections, noting their conflicting predictions. He also suggested actor Vijay's TVK could emerge as a significant force, potentially surprising voters, especially among students and first-time voters. Vaiko asserted the enduring strength of the Dravidian movement, dismissing any threat from the BJP.

Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Repolling At 15 Booths In Bengal's Diamond Harbour, Magrahat Paschim Begins After Complaints Of Irregularities: Trinamool, Mamata Banerjee, BJP Suvendu Adhikari

Meanwhile, National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah accused the Opposition Peoples Democratic Party of not supporting his party in the Rajya Sabha elections

Aamir Khan reveals how his early career choices differed from his current meticulous approach. He shares two instances where he agreed to films, 'Awwal Number' and 'Tum Mere Ho', without hearing the story, due to his father's influence. These decisions contrast with his usual instinct-driven selections like 'Taare Zameen Par'. The films from 1990 did not achieve box office success.

Voting is underway at 15 polling stations in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district. The Election Commission ordered repolls in Magrahat Paschim and Diamond Harbour assembly constituencies. This follows reports of electoral malpractices during the second phase of state elections. The Election Commission is also considering repolling in the Falta assembly constituency. Vote counting is scheduled for May 4.

BJP strategy to defame Bengal: TMC's Shashi Panja alleges poll-day provocation after ECI orders repoll

KOLKATA, May 1: Several incidents of alleged post-poll violence were reported from different districts of West Bengal, even as tension continued in parts of the state following the assembly elections, a senior police officer said on Friday. Incidents of violence were reported from the districts of South 24 Parganas, Murshidabad, Malda and North 24 Parganas, []

NEW DELHI, May 1: The Election Commission today ordered repolling on May 2 in 15 polling stations in West Bengal, where voting was held on April 29 in the second phase of the assembly elections. In a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer of Bengal, the Election Commission (EC) said the repolling has been ordered based on inputs received from the state poll machinery and voting will be held from 7 am to 6 pm. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel [] The post Repolling in 15 stns in Bengal today appe

Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, May 1: Questioning the voting pattern in the recent Rajya Sabha elections, Dr Farooq Abdullah today said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) did not extend support to the ruling National Conference. PDP did not vote for us. They should be asked whom they voted for. I had thanked them earlier as I did not know, but now it has come to light that what we had hoped was not the case, Abdullah told reporters. The remarks come [] The post PDP didnt vote for NC in RS pol

Trinamool Congress has moved the Supreme Court, challenging a directive mandating central government employees as counting supervisors or assistants for Bengal's assembly election vote count. The party argues this is arbitrary, discriminatory, and creates bias, especially with the BJP at the Centre. They claim it unfairly alters the counting table composition, undermining a level playing field and free elections.

Trinamool Congress has raised concerns with the Election Commission regarding alleged CCTV blackouts and unauthorized access to EVM strongrooms. BJP dismissed these claims as tactics by a party anticipating defeat. TMC representatives reported seeing individuals inside sealed rooms without party agents present, fueling suspicion ahead of counting day.

Srinagar, May 1:Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday launched a scathing attack on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing it of peddling lies over the status of Urdu to distract from its alleged political understanding with the BJP. Responding to claims that the government intended to drop Urdu, Abdullah clarified that the administration had only sought public feedback on a departmental proposal and no decision had been taken. There is a difference between asking for pu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes for a swift recovery to Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai, who is reportedly unwell. Rai has previously contested against Modi from the Varanasi Lok Sabha seat in three general elections. Modi conveyed his well wishes via a post on X.

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said if the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls affects the outcome of the West Bengal assembly elections, it would set a dangerous precedent, against which the political parties need to safeguard themselves. Responding to a question about the high drama outside a strong room []

In Kerala, the UDF is engaged in ugly manoeuvres for the CMs post

West Bengal Elections: Repolling At 15 Booths In 2 West Bengal Constituencies Tomorrow

TMC has approached the Supreme Court of India challenging a directive by the Election Commission of India to appoint Central government and PSU employees as counting staff for the West Bengal Assembly elections. T

Guwahati, May 1: Assam Minister Jayanta Malla Barua expressed strong confidence in the ruling Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) prospects for the upcoming assembly elections. He stated that the party is set to secure a significant majority, winning all three assembly seats in the Nalbari district. Speaking to reporters, Barua emphasized that the BJP-led coalition is ... Read more Assam Minister Confident of BJP Winning Over 90 Seats in Upcoming Elections

Guwahati, May 1: Assam Minister Jayant Malla Barua expressed confidence on Friday regarding the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) prospects in the upcoming assembly elections, predicting a significant majority for the ruling party. He stated that the BJP would secure victories in all three assembly seats in the Nalbari district. Speaking to reporters, Barua asserted that ... Read more BJP Aims for Over 90 Seats in Assam Elections: Minister Jayant Malla Barua

Cole Tomas Allen ran towards the hall of the Washington hotel where the White House Correspondents dinner was in progress on April 25. As he went through a security check point he was challenged by security personnel. A firefight ensued. Allen was overpowered. Meanwhile President Donald Trump, First Lady Melanie Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who were attending this most prestigious event in Washingtons social calendar, were whisked to safety. Many aspects of this event have attracted wide c

SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of aiding the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the recent Rajya Sabha polls, claiming that the party was now raising the Urdu language issue merely to divert public attention from its role in the elections. He also rejected claims regarding any rollback []

From postal ballot trends and EVM counting rounds to voter turnout patterns and misinformation risks, heres what to track as India awaits crucial 2026 assembly election results.

New Delhi, May 1: As the results of the assembly elections are set to be announced, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has higher expectations than mere victory. His goal is to break the 60-seat barrier and secure a full majority for the BJP independently for the first time. When the BJP came to power ... Read more Himanta Biswa Sarma Aims for Full Majority in Assam Elections

New Delhi, May 1: As the results of the assembly elections are set to be announced, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is aiming for more than just victory. His goal is to break the 60-seat barrier and secure a full majority for the BJP on its own for the first time. When the BJP ... Read more Himanta Biswa Sarma Aims for BJPs Full Majority in Assam Elections

Kolkata, May 1: The Election Commission has instructed general observers for all 294 assembly seats in West Bengal to be present at their respective counting centers by 8 AM on May 4, when the counting begins. They are required to remain on-site until the counting is complete and the winning candidates receive their certificates. A ... Read more Bengal Elections: General Observers to Be Present at Counting Centers on May 4

Kolkata, May 1: The Election Commission has directed general observers for all 294 assembly seats in West Bengal to be present at their respective counting centers and halls by 8 AM on May 4, when the counting begins. The observers are also required to remain until the counting is complete and the winning candidates are ... Read more Bengal Elections: General Observers to Monitor Counting Centers on May 4

NEW DELHI: The Election Commission on Friday ordered repolling on May 2 in 15 polling stations in West Bengal, where voting was held on April 29 in the second phase of the assembly elections. In a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer of Bengal, the Election Commission (EC) said the repolling has been ordered based []

New Delhi, May 1: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has challenged the Election Commissions decision to appoint central government and public sector employees for counting duties in the West Bengal elections in the Supreme Court. The party has filed a new petition against the Calcutta High Courts ruling. The Supreme Court is set to hear TMCs ... Read more TMC Challenges Central Employee Appointments for Counting Duty in Supreme Court

West Bengal's political landscape, historically dominated by single parties for extended periods, is now witnessing an intense battle for the 2026 assembly elections. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee's 15-year rule faces a formidable challenge from the aggressively expanding BJP, which aims to end the TMC's reign. This election marks a critical juncture for the state's political legacy.

Guwahati, May 1: Minister Ashok Singhal of the Assam government has claimed that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will achieve a significant victory in the upcoming state assembly elections, surpassing 100 seats in the 126-member assembly. In a conversation with reporters, Singhal stated that when the election results are announced on May 4, the people ... Read more NDA Expected to Surpass 100 Seats in Assam Elections, Claims Minister Ashok Singhal

ECI has ordered repolling at 15 polling stations in West Bengal following complaints during the second phase of Assembly elections, with fresh voting scheduled for May 2. Most affected booths are in Magarhat Paschim and Diamond Harbour constituencies in South 24 Parganas.

A detailed look at the official processes, security measures, and political developments that take place in India between exit polls and counting day during elections.

Srinagar, May 01: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has expressed deep disappointment over the INDIA bloc, especially the Congress, ot supporting the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood with the expected vigour. In a candid assessment of the opposition bloc, Abdullah said that while his party remains a committed member of the alliance, it has fallen short of its potential. He also flagged the lack of a robust, unified approach to Jammu and Kashmir's issues as a primary poin

Kolkata, May 1: The Election Commission has announced that re-polling will take place on May 2 at 15 voting centers across two assembly seats in the South 24 Parganas district as part of the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026. This decision follows the cancellation of the voting conducted on April 29 at these centers. In ... Read more West Bengal to Conduct Re-Polling at 15 Voting Centers on May 2

Kolkata:The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Friday, May 1, ordered a repoll at 15 polling stations spread across two Assembly constituencies in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, declaring the votes cast at those booths on April 29 void and fixing May 2 as the date for fresh polling. In a communiqu addressed 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 a

New Delhi, May 1: Union Minister Chirag Paswan addressed several pressing issues, including the trends in the West Bengal Assembly elections, the murder of a Bihar youth in Delhi, International Workers Day, and the recent rise in LPG prices. He asserted that the BJP would form the government in Bengal. Paswan condemned the remarks made ... Read more Chirag Paswan Claims BJP Will Form Government in Bengal, Condemns Comments on Bihar Youths Murder

Kolkata, May 1: In preparation for the counting of votes for the recently concluded two-phase assembly elections in West Bengal, Kolkata Police has enforced a prohibition on gatherings of more than five individuals within a 200-meter radius of all counting centers starting Friday. This measure aims to prevent tension, crowds, protests, or any unpleasant incidents ... Read more Kolkata Police Enforces Prohibition Near Counting Centers Ahead of Elections

With counting scheduled for May 4, the spotlight has shifted to what record voter turnout across states could mean for electoral outcomes, especially as exit polls offer mixed projections

West Bengal Elections: Repolling At 15 Booths In 2 West Bengal Constituencies Tomorrow

New Delhi, May 1: The political landscape surrounding the electoral process in West Bengal has intensified. Leaders from various parties have raised serious allegations regarding the security of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), voter verification methods, and the role of the Election Commission. Tensions have also escalated outside the strongroom where EVMs are stored in Kolkata. ... Read more Political Turmoil Escalates Over Bengal Elections: EVM Security and Election Commission Under Scrutin

Thiruvananthapuram, May 1: The Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala has rejected the predictions made by exit polls ahead of the assembly election results. Instead, they are emphasizing the popularity of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan as their greatest strength. The LDF, led by the CPM, claims that multiple surveys have identified Pinarayi Vijayan as the ... Read more LDF Dismisses Exit Polls, Backs Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayans Popularity Ahead of Kerala Elections

Tamil Nadus Assembly elections have often seen long gaps between polling and the counting of votes. This video looks at how election schedules in the state have evolved since 1967, the reasons behind delays, and the political moments that shaped modern Tamil Nadu.

New Delhi, May 1: The political landscape in West Bengal has intensified as leaders from various parties engage in a heated debate over the security of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), voter verification methods, and the role of the Election Commission. Tensions have also escalated outside the strongroom where EVMs are stored in Kolkata. Jammu and ... Read more Political Turmoil in Bengal Elections: Leaders Clash Over EVMs and Election Commissions Role

New Delhi, May 1: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is facing a significant challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in her 15 years of continuous governance. According to the average of nine major exit polls, the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections depict a highly competitive and personal contest between the BJP and the ... Read more TMC Faces Tough Challenge from BJP in West Bengal Elections

New Delhi, May 1: BJP MP Damodar Das Agrawal has sharply reacted to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees allegations regarding the Kolkata strong room controversy. He accused Banerjee of theatrics and searching for excuses for her defeat. Speaking to reporters, Agrawal stated, The Election Commission conducted free and fair elections in five states. There ... Read more BJP Leader Responds to Kolkata Strong Room Controversy

The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said he had warned that the heat of inflation would strike after the elections

The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha said he had warned that the heat of inflation would strike after the elections

These elections will decide whether the LDF secures a third term or faces anti-incumbency.

Srinagar, May 1: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said if the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls affects the outcome of the West Bengal assembly elections, it would set a dangerous precedent, against which the political parties need to safeguard themselves. Responding to a question about the high drama outside a strong room at Bhabanipur in Kolkata on Thursday night, he said it is West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees right to deploy people to guard [] Th

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2026: Officials have indicated that the evaluation process has already been completed. Students will be able to check their marks online

Commercial LPG prices have surged significantly after the elections. Rahul Gandhi calls this an 'election bill'. A 19-kg cylinder now costs over Rs 3,000 in Delhi. This rise impacts small businesses like dhabas and restaurants. Domestic LPG prices remain unchanged. Global energy volatility and tensions in West Asia are cited as reasons for the hike.

Mr. Bose is seeking re-election from the Bidhannagar seat, where polling happened in the final phase of the Assembly elections on April 29

NEW DELHI, May 1: West Bengal recorded a strong turnout among third gender electors in the second phase of the assembly polls, with 91.28 per cent of them exercising their franchise, according to the Election Commission. A total of 1,257 third gender electors turned up in two phases of West Bengal elections 465 in phase I and 792 in phase II. The turnout stood at 56.79 per cent in phase I, while it rose sharply to 91.28 per cent [] The post WB phase-II polls see 91.28 pc turnout among third gen

Read our recap to find the viral pieces of fake news we fact-checked this week!

Kolkata, May 1: During a press conference, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Dola Sen addressed the ongoing controversy regarding postal ballots in the West Bengal assembly elections. She highlighted the video footage from CCTV cameras positioned outside each strong room, asserting that anyone can view it. Dola Sen stated that the video is official. However, no ... Read more TMC MP Dola Sen Raises Concerns Over Strong Room Security in West Bengal Elections

West Bengal Elections: Buoyed by exit poll projections for West Bengal, the BJP has convened a crucial meeting of senior leaders and campaign in-charges in Kolkata. The party, confident of forming the government, will strategize for the results day, deploying leaders across the state and establishing a control room to monitor the counting process and address any concerns.

The Calcutta HC has dismissed a plea challenging the Election Commissions directive to deploy central government and PSU employees for vote counting in the West Bengal Assembly elections

With just two days left for counting in the high-stakes Assembly elections, the Trinamool alleged that the ballot boxes were opened without the presence of authorised party representatives.

There will be no law and order situation. These things happen. The law and order situation is fine. Counting will be 100 per cent neat and clean just like the elections were, Agarwal said

The Election Commission is implementing a new QR code-based system for counting hall access on May 4, the day of poll results. This three-tier security measure, involving manual ID checks and QR code scanning for the innermost cordon, will be standard for all future Lok Sabha and state assembly elections.

Oil prices are soaring, pushing the government to consider raising fuel costs. State-run companies are facing significant losses due to the sharp increase in crude oil. While elections are over, a decision on price hikes remains pending. Consumers have seen stable prices so far, but this situation may not last.

Tensions flared at Kolkata's counting centres as Trinamool Congress alleged EVM tampering, citing CCTV footage. Election officials refuted claims, assuring three-tier security and authorized personnel. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged a 24/7 vigil at strongrooms, while clashes erupted between TMC and BJP workers. Officials clarified that individuals seen were authorized representatives segregating postal ballots.

The Congress party has decided to support the Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray Sena nominee for the Maharashtra Legislative Council elections. This decision was made to ensure opposition unity and prevent the Bharatiya Janata Party from gaining an advantage. A meeting between Congress and Sena leaders solidified this agreement. The Congress party sought assurances for future nominations.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin met with senior DMK leaders after returning from a vacation. The meeting at the party headquarters focused on assessing their chances of winning the upcoming April 23 assembly elections. This comes as exit polls suggest the DMK will regain power in the state. Key leaders, including DMK general secretary Durai Murugan, were present.

Speaking at a press conference here, Reddy highlighted the party's strengthened position post-Lok Sabha elections, with 40 lakh new members and victories in MLC, panchayat, and municipal polls.

In a remarkable turn of events, the latest elections in multiple Indian states and a Union Territory showcased an unprecedented voter turnout, with women leading the charge and surpassing male participation in all five areas. This rise is powered by dynamic voter education initiatives and may also be a response to the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act.

In a bold accusation, the RJD has called out the Election Commission for allegedly orchestrating rigging efforts in the West Bengal elections using a 'SIR model.' They claim that the manipulation of voter lists mirrors tactics previously seen in Bihar. The party argues that the BJP is desperately trying to usurp the public's will after facing widespread rejection.