92.6% turnout in Phase 2 takes Bengal total to record 92.9%
West Bengal witnessed an unprecedented voter turnout of 92.9% across two phases, surpassing previous records and nearing India's highest. This surge, particularly in Kolkata, is attributed to voter roll corrections and enhanced security. Despite a reduced electorate, more votes were cast, with women outvoting men. Officials are investigating complaints of vote tampering.
12 labourers killed, 20 injured as van overturns, crashes into SUV in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar
Exit polls predict BJP victory in Bengal, UDF comeback, NDA strong in Assam
Exit polls released on Wednesday suggest a significant shift in political landscapes. In West Bengal, the BJP is projected to win, while the Trinamool Congress may lose power. Kerala's Left front faces defeat, with the UDF expected to return. Assam's NDA appears set for a third term. Tamil Nadu's DMK alliance is predicted to retain power.
Thackeray opts out of Legislative Council poll, Congress signals rival candidate, MVA unity tested
Uddhav Thackeray will not contest the Maharashtra Legislative Council elections. His party has nominated Ambadas Danve instead. This decision has created friction within the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance. The Congress party has indicated it may field its own candidate. This move tests the unity of the MVA bloc. The Congress feels the decision was made unilaterally.
Exit Polls 2026: Bengal may say bye to Mamata, open gates for Amit Shah
PDP's Iltija accuses Omar Abdullah of 'erasing' Urdu in Jammu & Kashmir
The Peoples Democratic Party has accused Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of removing Urdu from official records. PDP leader Iltija Mufti stated this move aims to erase the language from the region's history and culture. Two government notifications from the revenue department, headed by Abdullah, are cited.
Telangana CM orders fast-track of Tummidihetti Barrage, to seek Maharashtra nod
Hyderabad:Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Wednesday, April 29, directed officials to expedite work on the Tummidihetti Barrage project and initiate talks with the Maharashtra government over the proposed height of the structure, a key variable that will determine how much water the state can draw from it. The directions came at a high-level 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 .
Exit polls released on Wednesday after the conclusion of voting across four states and one Union Territory (UT) offered an indecisive picture, where entrenched incumbencies, rising challengers and new entrants are simultaneously may shape electoral outcomes if the exit polls numbers hold. With results scheduled for May 4, the projections reflect both continuity and churn across regions, underscoring how state-specific dynamics continue to define voter behaviour.
West Bengal logs record 91.66% turnout in phase 2, sporadic violence reported across districts
West Bengal witnessed a record voter turnout exceeding 91% in the second phase of assembly elections, contributing to an overall 92.47% across two phases, the highest since Independence. Despite high participation, sporadic incidents of violence and vandalism were reported from various locations, prompting the Election Commission to seek reports and ensure fair polling.
West Bengal assembly elections: Over 90% voter turnout in final phase
The combined poll-percentage over the two-phases stood at 92.47 per cent as of 7:45 p.m., highest ever since Independence
Judicial restraint needed: VHP hits out at Allahabad HC remarks in madrasa case
WB Assembly polls Phase 2: State records nearly 92% voter turnout amid sporadic violence
Exit polls present a stark contrast for Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in the 2026 Tamil Nadu elections. While most predict a spoiler role with 10-24 seats, one outlier suggests a Kejriwal-like breakthrough of 98-120 seats. The outcome hinges on converting star power into grassroots strength, unlike Prashant Kishor's Bihar debut.
Piramal Pharma expects FY 2027 to see a revival in growth
It posted a Rs 9 crore loss Q4 FY 26, impacted by an impairment cost of Rs 176 crore linked to assets under development
Puducherry exit polls 2026: NDA likely to retain power; Congress, TVK lag in fragmented fight
Bengal exit polls 2026: BJP predicted to unseat Mamata Banerjee; TMC staring at setback
Kerala exit poll 2026: UDF predicted to win coastal state in neck-and-neck contest with LDF
A defeat for LDF would also diminish the presence of CPM in its last major stronghold. The campaign narrative has also undergone notable shifts. Early phases were dominated by issues such as corruption allegations, economic concerns, backdoor appointments, the Sabarimala gold heist controversy, and rehabilitation concerns of Wayanad landslide victims, alongside scandals involving opposition leaders.
Assam exit polls 2026: Himanta Biswa Sarma-led BJP projected to retain govt with strong lead
Exit polls for the Assam elections indicate a strong victory for the incumbent Himanta Biswa Sarma-led BJP government, projecting a third consecutive term. Most pollsters suggest the BJP will secure a comfortable majority, leaving the Congress campaign with limited gains and pushing the party further into vulnerability.
US restitutes 657 stolen antiquities to India
In an official statement, district attorney Alvin L Bragg Jr said the return highlighted the massive scale of trafficking networks that targeted Indias cultural heritage. He added that efforts to recover and repatriate stolen artefacts would continue.
Karnataka Congress faces internal power tussle as Deputy CM DK Shivakumar eyes the Chief Minister's post, while followers of CM Siddaramaiah lobby for his continuation. Home Minister G Parameshwara suggested Mallikarjun Kharge's return as CM would be welcomed. A section of Dalit ministers also pitched for a Dalit CM if a change is deemed necessary, intensifying the leadership debate.
Can Kavitha be mother of Telangana if she disrespects KCR: Congress
Hyderabad: Munugode Congress MLA Komatireddy Raj Gopal Reddy has said that Telangana Rashtra Sena (TRS) founder Kalvakuntla Kavitha has made a big mistake by talking ill about her father and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Chief K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), during her speech at her political partys launch on March 25. Speaking with the media in 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 .
Assembly Elections 2026 Exit Poll Updates: Elections have concluded across West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry. Now, all eyes are on the upcoming exit polls. These projections will provide the first glimpse into how voters cast their ballots. The results will shape the political narrative before the final counting day.
Evening news wrap: Exit polls today for 4 states, 1 UT; Trump's fresh warning to Iran & more
Voters await exit polls as West Bengal concludes its Phase 2 elections. Prime Minister Modi inaugurated Uttar Pradesh's longest Ganga Expressway. Meanwhile, Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Iran regarding nuclear talks, and King Charles III emphasized democratic values and climate action during his US visit.
Faith, Crime and the Algorithm: Story of Salim Wastik and the Ex-Muslim Network
Salim Wastik, an ex-Muslim influencer unmasked as a murderer, shows how outrage and algorithms profit online.
Atrocities by EC, central forces unprecedented: CM Mamata Banerjee after casting her vote
AAP MPs' merger with BJP: Punjab CM says meeting president on May 5
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will meet President Droupadi Murmu on May 5. He seeks the recall of Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MPs who joined the BJP. Mann also addressed potential confidence motions and countered BJP remarks. The state police are investigating a blast.
Maharashtra approves AI policy 2026 with Rs 10,000 crore investment plan
The policy includes plans to set up six AI Excellence Centres and five AI Innovation Cities, with a strong focus on building AI infrastructure in the state
Krishna Pal triumphed in the under-29 10km at the Times Internet Half Marathon with a 34:00 chip time, inspired by a newspaper article. Rajesh secured second place at 35:40, while Mohit Sharma, a former school national qualifier, took third with 36:19. The event showcased emerging talent and athletic aspirations.
Emerging women athletes: Under-29 10K category reflects talent and ambition
Vantara offers to take 80 Colombian hippos facing death
BJP candidate Rudranil Ghosh accused West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee of obstructing voter list deletions, alleging it was done to defame the ECI and confuse the public. Ghosh also claimed TMC threatened officials, preventing them from performing their duties. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Congress MLC Bhai Jagtap expressed confidence in Banerjee's victory, citing her good work.
Exit Polls failures: Nine times predictions missed the mark
Assembly Election Exit polls Failure History: Exit polls for West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry, and Assam are awaited. However, past elections in Haryana, Lok Sabha 2024, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Lok Sabha 2014 and 2004 show these forecasts can be inaccurate. Voter sentiment is complex. The final results on counting day are the only ones that truly matter.
PM Modi inaugurates 594-km Ganga Expressway in UP
The high-speed corridor is expected to significantly boost connectivity across Uttar Pradesh, while giving impetus to industrial investment, logistics, agricultural marketing and regional balance.
Bakrid 2026: VHP demands shut down of slaughter houses in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: The Vishwa Hindu Parishads (VHP) wings have demanded that the state government immediately shut down the slaughterhouses across Hyderabad, and to strictly enforce highway checks, to prohibit the killing of cows and healthy bulls in view of the Bakrid festival to be celebrated by Muslims next month. Desi Gau Vamsha Rakshana Samvardhana Samithi, which 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 .
'This is TMCs technique': BJP alleges party symbol 'taped' over in Bengal's Falta
'BJP wants to forcefully rig poll': Mamata Banerjee alleges violence in West Bengal phase-2 voting
FSSAI proposes plastic-free packaging for pan masala, gutka
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a complete ban on single-use plastic packaging for pan masala, gutka, and similar products. The draft amendment mandates the use of paper, paperboard, or naturally derived materials, prohibiting plastics and aluminium foil. This move aims to curb plastic waste and aligns with existing state-level bans on these products.
NFHS-6 data likely in first half of May
'No vacuum in law to deal with the offence' What Supreme Court said on hate speeches
The Supreme Court ruled that current laws adequately address hate speech, stating punishment is a legislative matter and no vacuum exists. However, it encouraged the government to assess if new legislation is needed due to changing social dynamics.
'Gave clean chit to Pakistan': Congress calls Rajnath's SCO meet statement 'anti-national'
Congress slammed the Centre, accusing it of giving Pakistan a clean chit after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated terrorism lacks nationality or theology. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh called this appeasement of the US and capitulation to China, questioning Pakistan's role in terror attacks. Singh's remarks were made at the SCO meet in Bishkek.
1 in 14 school children obese in India; north tops chart
A concerning national analysis reveals nearly 7% of Indian school children are obese, with rates climbing nationwide. Researchers link this rise to processed foods, sedentary habits, and screen time. Experts warn of early onset of adult diseases like diabetes and heart issues, stressing the urgent need for dietary changes and increased physical activity to combat this growing public health crisis.
Congress criticizes Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remarks on terrorism at an SCO meeting. The party claims Singh provided a 'clean chit' to Pakistan, labeling his statements 'anti-national'. Congress alleges this stance aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's policies towards the US and China. The Defence Minister's comments in Bishkek are under scrutiny.
Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized the Great Nicobar project. He described it as a major scam and a grave crime against the nation's natural and tribal heritage. Gandhi stated that the project involves cutting down millions of trees and displacing communities.
National medical commission removes cap on MBBS seats, eases population norm
The National Medical Commission has removed key restrictions on MBBS seat expansion, eliminating the 150-seat cap per college and the 100 seats per 10 lakh population ratio. These policy shifts aim to increase medical education capacity to meet rising demand. Additionally, the distance norm for teaching hospitals has been revised to 10 km, with a relaxed limit for specific regions.
West Bengal's second phase of Assembly elections commenced amidst reports of violence, voter intimidation, and technical issues. Incidents were reported across Chapra, Shantipur, Nimtala, and Bhangar. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged bias from observers and TMC party flags being removed, while the BJP reported an assault on a polling agent in Chapra.
West Bengal: Violence, vandalism reported during early hours of voting
Violence and vandalism marred the early hours of West Bengal's second phase assembly elections on Wednesday. Incidents were reported from Chapra, Shantipur, Nimtala and Bhangar. A BJP polling agent was allegedly assaulted in Chapra. A BJP camp office in Shantipur was vandalised.
In Sabarimala case, Hindu party urges SC to revisit 30-year-old order on Hinduism
Can't deny RTE admission due to dispute with govt: SC to schools
WhatsApp to block misuse of logos to curb digital arrest
Inept probe: SC acquits 12 lifers in 2008 murder case
'Vote in record numbers': PM Modi appeals for high voter turnout in phase-2 of West Bengal polls
Prime Minister Modi urged record voter turnout for West Bengal's Phase-2 elections, especially from women and youth. Voting commenced across 142 constituencies, a crucial phase for the TMC's dominance in southern districts against the BJP's challenge. Key contests include Bhabanipur, with extensive security and webcasting in place for 3.21 crore voters.
West Bengal & Tamil Nadu Elections 2026: Past poll predictions
Exit polls for Tamil Nadu and West Bengal Assembly Elections are due tonight. These projections will reveal voter mood after the final polling phase. Stakes are high in Tamil Nadu with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin seeking a second term. West Bengal faces a clash between incumbency and welfare schemes. Official counting is on May 4.
Money laundering case: ED attaches Mumbai flat, farmhouse of Anil Ambani
India 5th largest military spender at over $92 bn in 2025, says Sipri
Rajnath warns Pak on terror at SCO meet
Crackers, risky reels: Kedarnath cops file FIRs on pilgrims
Judge in Kejriwal row recuses from hearing Karti plea
Death proof sought for withdrawal, man takes sister's skeleton to bank
Dawood aide Dola brought back from Turkiye
2-Year-Long Hunt Spanned Several Countries, Involved Int'l Agencies
Phase-1 vote surge new poll rider in TMCs comfort zone
Bengal polls: Calcutta HC cautions EC on preventive detentions
Women voting in big way to teach oppn a lesson: Modi
In Kolkata, 55 nuns rejoin poll rolls
Tribunals restore 1,468 votes in West Bengal, delete six names for second phase
Supreme Court-mandated tribunals restored voting rights for 1,468 people in West Bengal before the second phase of polls, bringing the total reinstatements to 1,607. This follows the deletion of 27 lakh voters under the logical discrepancy clause, with scrutiny intensifying due to a high restoration-to-deletion ratio.
90-year-old refuses to settle defamation case, Bombay HC adjourns it to 2046
A nearly 90-year-old woman and her daughter have had their defamation suit against housing society committee members adjourned until 2046 by the Bombay High Court.
Act east, Act fast for Northeast development: PM Modi in Sikkim
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended Sikkim's 50th Statehood celebrations. He launched over 30 development projects worth thousands of crores. Modi highlighted his government's commitment to the Northeast, calling it Asht Lakshmi. He also noted efforts to improve border tourism experiences. The Prime Minister described the event and a preceding roadshow as unforgettable, showcasing India's unity.
On SCO sidelines, Rajnath and China's defence minister discuss West Asia developments
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met his Chinese counterpart Admiral Dong Jun on the sidelines of the SCO Defence Ministers' meeting in Bishkek. The two leaders discussed regional and global security, including developments in West Asia, amidst ongoing efforts to rebuild ties after the 2020 LAC standoff. Singh also held discussions on bilateral defence cooperation with his Russian counterpart.
After Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia to also boycott Justice Sharma's court
Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia will not participate further in the Delhi excise policy case. He has written to Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma expressing doubts about her impartiality. Sisodia cited the judge's public appearances at certain events and her children's professional ties. These issues, he stated, cause him significant concern regarding the fairness of the proceedings.
Dawood aide Salim Dola brought to India from Turkiye in major NCB global crackdown
Mohammed Salim Dola, a key associate of Dawood Ibrahim, has been brought to India from Turkiye. The Narcotics Control Bureau took him into custody at Delhi's IGI Airport. Dola is a wanted drug trafficker with a transnational syndicate. This operation highlights strong international cooperation. Authorities are committed to dismantling drug networks.
Iltija protests removal of Urdu from job recruitment eligibility rules, slams NC govt
Iltija Mufti, a PDP leader, protested the government's plan to remove Urdu knowledge as a requirement for Jammu and Kashmir Revenue Service jobs. She stated this move attacks the region's linguistic heritage. Mufti argued Urdu connects communities and is a repository of knowledge. She questioned the government's priorities and vowed to resist the changes.
Delhi court rejects I-PAC director Vinesh Chandel's plea for interim bail
A Delhi court has denied interim bail to Vinesh Chandel, co-founder of I-PAC. Chandel is jailed in a money-laundering case linked to a coal scam. He sought bail citing his mother's deteriorating health. The court found the grounds insufficient for exceptional humanitarian relief. The judge noted the mother's dementia is chronic and not an acute medical emergency.
Karnataka rolls out internal SC reservation, clears recruitment of 56,432 posts
The revised policy aims to ensure equitable distribution among SC sub-groups while complying with legal limits set by the Supreme Court of India
Maharashtra amends sand policy, deploys flying squads to curb illegal mining
The revised policy introduces flying squads at local levels, expands enforcement powers in the Konkan region, and strengthens the role of the Maharashtra Maritime Board in coastal regulation
The Election Commission of India will announce the results for the Assembly Elections 2026 in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry on Monday, May 4. Counting begins at 8:00 AM, with initial trends expected within hours and final results by evening, following a structured process of counting postal ballots and EVMs.
West Bengals final phase to see tough fight in Trinamool Congress heartland
Some key constituencies to witness strong triangular contests with prominent Congress and Left Front candidates in the fray
Local polls: AAP expands Gujarat footprint, wins Narmada district panchayat, 12 taluka panchayats
The Aam Aadmi Party has made significant inroads in Gujarat's local elections. The party secured its first district panchayat in Narmada and won twelve taluka panchayats. This performance marks a substantial increase in seats across local bodies. AAP's efforts to build its grassroots presence have yielded positive results, positioning it as a key opposition force in several areas.
When you clean your house, few glasses break: Subrata Thakurs SIR defence in Matua heartland
Google Cloud AI Hub in Vizag: Andhras 1.35 lakh crore bet on Indias tech future
Petrol, diesel to get expensive after April 29: Rahul Gandhi
Rahul Gandhi predicts fuel price increases post-elections. He alleges government profiteering from low global oil prices. However, a senior government official dismisses these claims. The official states there are no plans to raise petrol and diesel prices. Retail fuel prices have remained stable for four years despite rising crude oil costs.
'I'm going to die': Guard recalls supervisor's distress call in Mira Road stabbing case
According to police officials, the accused approached the guards stationed at an under-construction building near Wockhardt Hospital in the early hours of Monday, around 4.00 am. He reportedly asked them to recite the Kalma, an important Islamic declaration of faith, before launching the attack. Police moved swiftly after the attack, scanning CCTV footage from the area to trace the suspect. Ansari was tracked down and apprehended within roughly 90 minutes. He was later taken to Naya Nagar Police Station, where a case was registered against him under charges including attempted murder and promoting enmity between communities.
Odisha 'skeleton' row: Bank says man was inebriated, 'created a distressing situation'
West Bengal's high-stakes Assembly elections conclude with Phase 2 voting, shifting focus to exit poll projections due on April 29 after 6:30 pm. These polls, conducted by various agencies using sampling methods, offer a glimpse into voter sentiment but have historically shown inaccuracies. The Representation of the People's Act, 1951, strictly regulates their publication.
Viksit Bharat is not just Indias goal, but humanitys opportunity: Nirmala Sitharaman
Speaking in Mangaluru, she highlighted that a strong and democratic India benefits global peace, supply chains, and development models
'Nari shakti' is the strongest pillar of Viksit Bharat: PM Modi in Varanasi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that his government's policies have consistently accorded the highest priority to women's welfare and ari shakti is the strongest pillar of Viksit Bharat.
20 surrendered Maoists appinted as Giri Darshaks to guide tourists
Hyderabad: Twenty former Maoists from Bhadradri Kothagudem and Mulugu districts were given appointment letters to work as Giri Darshaks (tourist guides) at various tourism hotspots, which were formerly Maoist hotbeds. The twenty Giri Darshaks have received month-long training in tourism and soft skills, and they will be deputed to the forest, endowment, and tourism departments 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 .
Quality must not be compromised in infrastructure projects: Gadkari
Minister flags delays, poor planning and lack of accountability as key reasons for cost overruns
MEA condemns Mali terror attacks, calls for regional stability
India has strongly condemned the errorist attacks in Mali, extending condolences to victims and expressing solidarity with the nation. The Ministry of External Affairs also mourned the death of Mali's Defence Minister in the assault. This coordinated militant offensive, the largest in over a decade, has significantly worsened security, despite Russian support for the military government.
Over Rs 35,000 cr worth projects finished in Varanasi; Rs 20,000 cr works underway: Yogi Adityanath
Varanasi is witnessing a major transformation. Over Rs 35,000 crore in development projects are complete, with Rs 20,000 crore more in progress. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for projects valued at over Rs 6,330 crore. He also flagged off new trains and addressed a Nari Shakti Vandan programme, emphasizing women's empowerment and development.
West Bengal elections phase 2: In Didi's den, BJP tests the walls - what's at stake
BJP Wins All 15 Municipal Corporations In Gujarat, AAP Surat Stronghold Falls
The BJP's success also extended into the taluka and district panchayats, though the Congress and AAP managed to find small pockets of support in rural areas
