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The Aam Aadmi Party suffered a big blow on Friday as Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha and two other Rajya MPs, Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, announced that they were breaking away from AAP and joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Moreover, over two-thirds of the party’s Rajya Sabha MPs, including former cricketer Harbhajan Singh, and Rajinder Gupta, are set to back Chadha’s switch to the BJP.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chadha, who was once among AAP’s most prominent young leaders and a key face, had played a central role in the party’s outreach beyond Delhi and Punjab.&nbsp;<h2>‘AAP completely deviated from its principles, values, and core morals’</h2>&nbsp;Addressing a press conference with two other Rajya MPs, Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, Chadha said, “The Aam Aadmi Party, which I nurtured with my blood and sweat and to which I gave 15 years of my youth, has now completely deviated from its principles, values, and core morals. The party is no longer working for the country or in the national interest, but for personal gain.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | Delhi: During a press conference, Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha (<a href="https://twitter.com/raghav_chadha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@raghav_chadha</a>) says, “The Aam Aadmi Party, which I nurtured with my blood and sweat and to which I gave 15 years of my youth, has now completely deviated from its principles, values, and core morals. The… <a href="https://t.co/l8J9e9gspF">pic.twitter.com/l8J9e9gspF</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2047618899055968414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many of you have been telling me this for the past few years, and I too have personally felt that I am the right man in the wrong party. I repeat, ‘I am the right man in the wrong party.’ Therefore, today I announce that I am distancing myself from the Aam Aadmi Party and going to the people,” he added.&nbsp;“We, two-thirds of the Members of Parliament belonging to the Aam Aadmi Party in the Rajya Sabha, will exercise the provisions of the Constitution of India and merge with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP),” Chadha announced.&nbsp;Addressing the joint press conference, Pathak said he was going to join the BJP. Chadha said that nearly two-thirds of AAP's Rajya Sabha MPs have quit the party and will join the BJP as a faction. He added that several Rajya Sabha MPs, including Swati Maliwal, Harbhajan Singh, Vikram Sahney, and Rajinder Gupta have also quit AAP. The three MPs claimed before the press that seven out of 10 Rajya Sabha MPs of AAP have quit the party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | Delhi: Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha (<a href="https://twitter.com/raghav_chadha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@raghav_chadha</a>) says, “We, two-thirds of the Members of Parliament belonging to the Aam Aadmi Party in the Rajya Sabha, will exercise the provisions of the Constitution of India and merge with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). (Full… <a href="https://t.co/YBQOex17CD">pic.twitter.com/YBQOex17CD</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2047619973770575995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Chadha said AAP had strayed from its founding principles.Earlier this month, AAP leadership had removed Chadha as its deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, signalling a clear breakdown in ties with the party leadership. <h2>AAP attacks Chadha, other MPs</h2> AAP leader Sanjay Singh attacked Raghav Chadha and said the party made him an MLA and then elevated him to a Member of Parliament and had “given him a lot.” Singh said, “Look at the history of Rajender Gupta, Ashok Mittal and Swati Maliwal—the party did a lot for them.” He further said that “all these MPs have betrayed the Punjab government and its people,” adding that “the people of Punjab will never forgive them.” AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal also reacted to the split and said in a post on X, “The BJP has once again given Punjabis a shove.”

Over two-thirds of AAP’s Rajya Sabha MPs, including Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal, former cricketer Harbhajan Singh, and Rajinder Gupta, are set to back Raghav Chadha’s switch to the BJP. Chadha made the announcement in a press briefing and said AAP had strayed from its founding principles.

The Aam Aadmi Party suffered a big blow on Friday as Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha and two other Rajya MPs, Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, announced that they were breaking away from AAP and joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Moreover, over two-thirds of the party’s Rajya Sabha MPs, including former cricketer Harbhajan Singh, and Rajinder Gupta, are set to back Chadha’s switch to the BJP. Chadha, who was once among AAP’s most prominent young leaders and a key face, had played a central role in the party’s outreach beyond Delhi and Punjab. ‘AAP completely deviated from its principles, values, and core morals’ Addressing a press conference with two other Rajya MPs, Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, Chadha said, “The Aam Aadmi Party, which I nurtured with my blood and sweat and to which I gave 15 years of my youth, has now completely deviated from its principles, values, and core morals. The party is no longer working for the country or in the national interest, but for personal gain.”

Over two-thirds of AAP’s Rajya Sabha MPs, including Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal, former cricketer Harbhajan Singh, and Rajinder Gupta, are set to back Raghav Chadha’s switch to the BJP. Chadha made the announcement in a press briefing and said AAP had strayed from its founding principles.

Raghav Chadha, 2 other MPs quit Aam Aadmi Party, announce split with 2/3rd MPs set to join BJP

Iranian Embassy in Mumbai mocked US President Donald Trump after he reposted remarks of a commentator referring to India and China as “hellholes”. The Embassy posted a video on social media that captured the essence of the Indian state of Maharashtra. The clip carried a caption suggesting Trump to “book a one-way cultural detox” to reduce the random rubbish. This comes after US President Donald Trump shared a video and four-page transcript of remarks made by podcaster Michael Savage on America’s birthright citizenship, where he referred to India and China as “hellholes”.“Maybe someone should book a one-way cultural detox for Mr. #Trump, it might just reduce the random bakwaas (rubbish),” the post read. “Kabhi #India aa ke dekho, phir bolna (come to India sometime, then talk).”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Maybe someone should book a one-way cultural detox for Mr. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Trump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trump</a>, it might just reduce the random bakwaas 😏 Kabhi <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> aa ke dekho, phir bolna. <a href="https://t.co/kkocLZ31XX">pic.twitter.com/kkocLZ31XX</a>&mdash; Iran in Mumbai (@IRANinMumbai) <a href="https://twitter.com/IRANinMumbai/status/2047380743010332744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>MEA responds</h2>Responding to the remarks reposted by Trump, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs called the comments “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste.”“We have seen the comments, as also the subsequent statement issued by the US Embassy in response. The remarks are obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste. They certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-US relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement.Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the US Embassy in New Delhi issued a clarification, saying, “The President has said, ‘India is a great country with a very good friend of mine at the top.’”<h2>What remarks did Trump share?</h2>According to the transcript, Savage talked about the efforts to end the US birthright citizenship, under which a child born in the country automatically gets US nationality regardless of the parents’ immigration status.“A baby here becomes an instant citizen, and then they bring the entire family in from China or India or some other hellhole on the planet,” the transcript read. Savage also claimed that English was no longer widely spoken in the US. He alleged that immigrants showed little loyalty to the country, and hiring systems in California’s technology sector favoured Indians and Chinese over white Americans. White men “need not apply” for jobs in California, he said, adding that “Your chances are nil.”“They’ve done more damage to this nation than all the mafia families put together. In my un-humble opinion. Gangsters with laptops. They’ve robbed us, blind, treated us like second class citizens, let the turd world triumph, stepped on our flag, et cetera,” Savage said.&nbsp;

The Iranian Embassy in Mumbai mocked US President Donald Trump over reposted remarks on India, referring to it as a “hellhole”, as the Ministry of External Affairs called them inappropriate.

Iranian Embassy in Mumbai mocked US President Donald Trump after he reposted remarks of a commentator referring to India and China as “hellholes”. The Embassy posted a video on social media that captured the essence of the Indian state of Maharashtra. The clip carried a caption suggesting Trump to “book a one-way cultural detox” to reduce the random rubbish. This comes after US President Donald Trump shared a video and four-page transcript of remarks made by podcaster Michael Savage on America’s birthright citizenship, where he referred to India and China as “hellholes”. “Maybe someone should book a one-way cultural detox for Mr. #Trump, it might just reduce the random bakwaas (rubbish),” the post read. “Kabhi #India aa ke dekho, phir bolna (come to India sometime, then talk).”

The Iranian Embassy in Mumbai mocked US President Donald Trump over reposted remarks on India, referring to it as a “hellhole”, as the Ministry of External Affairs called them inappropriate.

‘Kabhi India aa ke dekho’: Iran Embassy in Mumbai mocks Trump over ‘hellholes’ remark

As campaigning and voting for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections conclude and the final results are still to come on May 4, here’s a look at the celebrities who were spotted at polling booths casting their votes.

Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: Celebrities spotted at polls to cast votes

In a viral video from Thursday (23rd April), an Indian Coast Guard Chetak helicopter was seen flying meters above the high-security Sabarimala hilltop temple in Kerala. The helicopter flying at such a low altitude had sparked concerns. Nestled within the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district, the major pilgrimage site is at an altitude of around 500meters. Known for its strict traditions, this temple attracts millions of devotees every year. The incident took place around 11 am on Thursday.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An Indian coast Guard Chetak Helicopter is seen flying meters above the Sabarimala hilltop temple in Kerala. Chopper is seen slowly overlying the temple, following which it speeds away. Incident has sparked concerns. Coast Guard says &quot;chopper deviated due to adverse weather&quot; <a href="https://t.co/NGQzSZgX0Q">pic.twitter.com/NGQzSZgX0Q</a>&mdash; Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/2047553940867449314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

For a few seconds, the video showed the helicopter flying at an extremely slow pace, exactly above the Hindu temple of Lord Ayyappa, following which it sped away. The helicopter was seen meters above the Sabarimala temple's 'Kodimaram', (also known as Dhwajasthambam), which is a sacred, tall flagpole installed in front of Hindu temples. Following the incident, authorities in Kerala are said to have launched a probe."On 23 April 2026, during a routine training sortie from Kochi, one of our aircraft encountered adverse weather conditions. As a precaution, the crew briefly deviated from the planned track while seeking clearer skies. The aircraft returned safely to Kochi without incident. Training operations continue as scheduled," the Indian Coast Guard said in a statement, without elaborating further.

The helicopter was seen meters above the Sabarimala temple's 'Kodimaram', (also known as Dhwajasthambam), which is a sacred, tall flagpole installed in front of Hindu temples.

In a viral video from Thursday (23rd April), an Indian Coast Guard Chetak helicopter was seen flying meters above the high-security Sabarimala hilltop temple in Kerala. The helicopter flying at such a low altitude had sparked concerns. Nestled within the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district, the major pilgrimage site is at an altitude of around 500meters. Known for its strict traditions, this temple attracts millions of devotees every year. The incident took place around 11 am on Thursday.

The helicopter was seen meters above the Sabarimala temple's 'Kodimaram', (also known as Dhwajasthambam), which is a sacred, tall flagpole installed in front of Hindu temples.

India: Coast Guard helicopter flies meters above Sabarimala temple; ICG blames weather

Acclaimed singer Arijit Singh stepped out on Thursday to cast his vote in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections. The singer and his wife, Koel Roy, were seen arriving at a polling booth in Jiaganj, in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal.&nbsp;The couple made their way to the polling booth, hand-in-hand and even waved to some fans who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the famous singer.&nbsp;Videos circulating online captured the singer in a cheerful mood. He greeted media personnel with a warm smile and briefly acknowledged police officials stationed at the venue before proceeding inside to cast his vote.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | Murshidabad, West Bengal: Singer Arijit Singh arrives to cast his vote at Jiyaganj polling station. <a href="https://t.co/33869WYSPY">pic.twitter.com/33869WYSPY</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2047280487987819002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Arijit's Father Casts A Vote</h2>Earlier in the day, Arijit's father, Surinder Singh, arrived at a polling booth in Murshidabad to cast his vote.&nbsp;Speaking to ANI after casting his vote, he expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and the peaceful atmosphere at the centre.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-10-richest-candidates-west-bengal-assembly-elections-2026-1776921155183">Top 10 richest candidates in West Bengal Assembly elections 2026</a>&nbsp;"Everything is good. May everything go well. There is no problem at all. Voting is going on smoothly. I have cast my vote," he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | West Bengal Elections 2026 | Father of singer Arijit Singh, Surinder Singh arrived at a polling booth in Murshidabad to cast his vote. <a href="https://t.co/HSD06JU7bZ">pic.twitter.com/HSD06JU7bZ</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047234600217514249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tmc-bjp-make-west-bengal-election-campaign-a-fishy-affair-voters-get-taste-of-jhalmuri-in-revri-promises-1776855276091">TMC, BJP make West Bengal Election campaign a 'fishy' affair: Phase 1 ends with a bit of 'jhalmuri', Phase 2 relies on 'revri'</a>&nbsp;Arjit Singh, one of the most celebrated singers of our times, shocked his fans earlier this year when he announced he was retiring from playback music. No Bollywood film album is complete without Singh and his decision led to much heartbreak for fans. However, the singer, who is settled in his hometown in West Bengal, assured that he will continue to create music and sing as well but independently.&nbsp;Also read<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/west-bengal-polls-2026-the-star-studded-candidate-list-you-need-to-see-1776338805239">: West Bengal Elections 2026: Ashok Dinda, Sayantika Banerjee, Raj Chakraborty; the star-studded candidate list you need to see</a>&nbsp;The polling for the Assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu concluded at 6 pm on Thursday (April 23), recording unprecedented participation. West Bengal registered 91.91 per cent voting in Phase I, while Tamil Nadu recorded 84.80 per cent, according to the Election Commission of India.

On Thursday, popular singer Arijit Singh cast his vote along with wife Koel Roy at his hometown in Jiaganj, in Murshidabad district in the first phase of West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026. 

Acclaimed singer Arijit Singh stepped out on Thursday to cast his vote in the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly Elections. The singer and his wife, Koel Roy, were seen arriving at a polling booth in Jiaganj, in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal. The couple made their way to the polling booth, hand-in-hand and even waved to some fans who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the famous singer. Videos circulating online captured the singer in a cheerful mood. He greeted media personnel with a warm smile and briefly acknowledged police officials stationed at the venue before proceeding inside to cast his vote.

On Thursday, popular singer Arijit Singh cast his vote along with wife Koel Roy at his hometown in Jiaganj, in Murshidabad district in the first phase of West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026.&nbsp;

Arijit Singh walks hand-in-hand with wife Koel Roy to polling booth as they cast vote in first phase of West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026

A Panama-flagged container ship came under fire from Iranian boats during heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, with 21 Indian crew members onboard reported safe and unharmed, India’s shipping ministry confirmed on Thursday (April 23). Another vessel traveling toward India also passed through the waterway amid the escalation.The ship, Euphoria, was among three vessels targeted by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday. The move is seen as part of Tehran’s response to a US blockade of its shipping, aimed at reinforcing its control over the strategically vital strait, which carries about one-fifth of global oil supplies.&nbsp;&nbsp;The other ships involved were the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca and the Liberian-registered Epaminondas, the latter en route to India’s Mundra port. “A vessel, Euphoria, was having 21 Indian seafarers on board, and all of them are safe,” said additional secretary in the shipping ministry, Mukesh Mangal, at an inter-ministerial press conference on Thursday. The Euphoria also has one Burmese crew member. The Epaminondas had one Indian crew member onboard, who was also reported safe. “None of the Indian seafarers has been injured in the firing on the foreign-flagged vessels,” he added, according to a report by news agency ANI.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-profiting-off-righteous-operation-how-an-army-soldier-used-secret-war-plans-about-maduro-s-capture-to-make-400-000-on-polymarket-1776993168140">'Profiting off righteous operation': How an army soldier used secret war plans about Maduro's capture to make $400,000 on Polymarket</a>&nbsp;The MSC Francesca, reportedly detained along with the Epaminondas at Bandar Abbas port, did not have any Indian crew members. Initial reports from Iranian media suggested that the Euphoria had been stranded near the Iranian coast following the incident. However, ship tracking data later indicated the vessel was near the Oman coast and heading toward Khor Fakkan port. A senior shipping ministry official, speaking anonymously, later confirmed that the ship is continuing its journey to its original destination of Jeddah.&nbsp;Maritime tracking in the Strait of Hormuz has recently been disrupted due to signal jamming and spoofing of transponder data, making real-time monitoring more difficult. In a related update, the Gibraltar-flagged bulk carrier Frosso K, carrying 55,000 metric tonnes of sulphur, safely transited the Strait of Hormuz and is en route to Paradip port in India.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-s-latest-bid-to-tackle-low-birth-rates-1776966268066/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-s-latest-bid-to-tackle-low-birth-rates-1776966268066/embed</a>&nbsp;The vessel was among 15 prioritized for evacuation from the Persian Gulf by India’s Department of Fertilizers. Meanwhile, the crude oil tanker Desh Garima, which crossed the strait on April 18, arrived in Mumbai on Wednesday.On the same day, two Indian-flagged vessels, Sanmar Herald and Jag Arnav, were also fired upon by IRGC boats while navigating the Strait of Hormuz, forcing them to turn back.&nbsp;According to the shipping ministry, there are currently 518 Indian seafarers aboard Indian-flagged vessels operating in the Persian Gulf region, including 340 west of the Strait of Hormuz and 178 in the Gulf of Oman.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iranian forces fire on ships in Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions. 21 Indian crew on Euphoria safe; multiple vessels targeted by IRGC

A Panama-flagged container ship came under fire from Iranian boats during heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, with 21 Indian crew members onboard reported safe and unharmed, India’s shipping ministry confirmed on Thursday (April 23). Another vessel traveling toward India also passed through the waterway amid the escalation. The ship, Euphoria, was among three vessels targeted by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday. The move is seen as part of Tehran’s response to a US blockade of its shipping, aimed at reinforcing its control over the strategically vital strait, which carries about one-fifth of global oil supplies. The other ships involved were the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca and the Liberian-registered Epaminondas, the latter en route to India’s Mundra port. “A vessel, Euphoria, was having 21 Indian seafarers on board, and all of them are safe,” said additional secretary in the shipping ministry, Mukesh Mangal, at an inter-ministerial press conference on Thursday. The Euphoria also has one Burmese crew member. The Epaminondas had one Indian crew member onboard, who was also reported safe. “None of the Indian seafarers has been injured in the firing on the foreign-flagged vessels,” he added, according to a report by news agency ANI. Also Read: 'Profiting off righteous operation': How an army soldier used secret war plans about Maduro's capture to make $400,000 on Polymarket The MSC Francesca, reportedly detained along with the Epaminondas at Bandar Abbas port, did not have any Indian crew members. Initial reports from Iranian media suggested that the Euphoria had been stranded near the Iranian coast following the incident. However, ship tracking data later indicated the vessel was near the Oman coast and heading toward Khor Fakkan port. A senior shipping ministry official, speaking anonymously, later confirmed that the ship is continuing its journey to its original destination of Jeddah. Maritime tracking in the Strait of Hormuz has recently been disrupted due to signal jamming and spoofing of transponder data, making real-time monitoring more difficult. In a related update, the Gibraltar-flagged bulk carrier Frosso K, carrying 55,000 metric tonnes of sulphur, safely transited the Strait of Hormuz and is en route to Paradip port in India. https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-s-latest-bid-to-tackle-low-birth-rates-1776966268066/embed The vessel was among 15 prioritized for evacuation from the Persian Gulf by India’s Department of Fertilizers. Meanwhile, the crude oil tanker Desh Garima, which crossed the strait on April 18, arrived in Mumbai on Wednesday. On the same day, two Indian-flagged vessels, Sanmar Herald and Jag Arnav, were also fired upon by IRGC boats while navigating the Strait of Hormuz, forcing them to turn back. According to the shipping ministry, there are currently 518 Indian seafarers aboard Indian-flagged vessels operating in the Persian Gulf region, including 340 west of the Strait of Hormuz and 178 in the Gulf of Oman. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iranian boats fire on ships in the Strait of Hormuz; 21 Indian crew on Euphoria safe as tensions rise, and multiple vessels face attacks

'21 Indian seafarers safe after Iranian boats target ships in Strait of Hormuz': Government

New Delhi: India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to travel to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, next week to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' meeting. The meeting on 28th April will see defence ministers of the grouping gathering to discuss evolving threats, including terrorism, extremism, as well as broader geopolitical tensions.The SCO, founded in 2001 by China, Russia, and Central Asian nations, has grown into a major grouping in the last 2 decades, especially with the inclusion of Iran in 2023 under Indian presidency. It serves as a key platform for security and economic cooperation across Eurasia. Defence ministers typically discuss military-to-military ties, counter-terrorism strategies, joint exercises, and intelligence sharing.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-uk-nsas-discuss-hormuz-closer-cooperation-against-khalistan-extremism-1776971604062">India, UK NSAs discuss Hormuz, closer cooperation against Khalistan extremism</a>For India, the meeting offers an opportunity to strengthen defence diplomacy in Central Asia, a region where New Delhi has been expanding its footprint through bilateral partnerships and infrastructure projects.India and Kyrgyzstan maintain long-standing defence ties, including joint training programmes and officer exchanges. Recent interactions, such as the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Working Group on defence cooperation, have focused on enhancing technical exchanges and industrial partnerships.In previous SCO forums, the Indian Defence minister has called for decisive action against radicalisation and cross-border terrorism, positions expected to feature prominently again.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-that-s-where-mea-shrugs-off-trump-s-hellhole-comment-on-india-and-china-1776947554143">‘That’s where…’: MEA shrugs off Trump’s ‘hellhole’ comment on India and China</a>No details are available on the bilateral schedule of the Defence Minister so far. China's Defence Minister Dong Jun is also scheduled to attend, along with counterparts from other member states, Chinese media has confirmed. Kyrgyzstan, which is the president of the grouping this year, will be hosting foreign, NSA-level meetings as well. Later in the year, it will host the SCO Summit. &nbsp;

For India, the meeting offers an opportunity to strengthen defence diplomacy in Central Asia, a region where New Delhi has been expanding its footprint through bilateral partnerships and infrastructure projects.

New Delhi: India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to travel to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, next week to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' meeting. The meeting on 28th April will see defence ministers of the grouping gathering to discuss evolving threats, including terrorism, extremism, as well as broader geopolitical tensions. The SCO, founded in 2001 by China, Russia, and Central Asian nations, has grown into a major grouping in the last 2 decades, especially with the inclusion of Iran in 2023 under Indian presidency. It serves as a key platform for security and economic cooperation across Eurasia. Defence ministers typically discuss military-to-military ties, counter-terrorism strategies, joint exercises, and intelligence sharing. Also read | India, UK NSAs discuss Hormuz, closer cooperation against Khalistan extremism For India, the meeting offers an opportunity to strengthen defence diplomacy in Central Asia, a region where New Delhi has been expanding its footprint through bilateral partnerships and infrastructure projects. India and Kyrgyzstan maintain long-standing defence ties, including joint training programmes and officer exchanges. Recent interactions, such as the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Working Group on defence cooperation, have focused on enhancing technical exchanges and industrial partnerships. In previous SCO forums, the Indian Defence minister has called for decisive action against radicalisation and cross-border terrorism, positions expected to feature prominently again. Also read | ‘That’s where…’: MEA shrugs off Trump’s ‘hellhole’ comment on India and China No details are available on the bilateral schedule of the Defence Minister so far. China's Defence Minister Dong Jun is also scheduled to attend, along with counterparts from other member states, Chinese media has confirmed. Kyrgyzstan, which is the president of the grouping this year, will be hosting foreign, NSA-level meetings as well. Later in the year, it will host the SCO Summit.

For India, the meeting offers an opportunity to strengthen defence diplomacy in Central Asia, a region where New Delhi has been expanding its footprint through bilateral partnerships and infrastructure projects.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to visit Kyrgyzstan for SCO defence ministers' meeting next week

New Delhi: India and the UK have pledged to intensify cooperation against pro-Khalistan extremism and address threats to maritime trade in the Strait of Hormuz, as the two countries’ national security advisers held high-level talks in New Delhi.&nbsp;National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted his UK counterpart Jonathan Powell on Thursday for the annual India-UK Strategic Dialogue. The closed-door discussions, which included both restricted and delegation-level sessions, focused on advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership amid a turbulent global security environment. Officials from both sides reiterated their commitment to the goals outlined in the India-UK Vision 2035 document, particularly in technology, defence, and security.&nbsp;They agreed to deepen collaboration between law enforcement agencies to tackle terrorism, extremism and pro-Khalistan elements. The Indian side thanked the UK for its ongoing support and stressed the need to sustain momentum in joint operations.&nbsp;The advisers held an in-depth exchange on regional and global challenges. They discussed the conflict in West Asia and its repercussions on maritime security and vital trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which a significant portion of India’s energy imports pass.&nbsp;Mr Doval emphasised that “dialogue and diplomacy” remained the only viable path to resolution. The two sides also reviewed the Russia-Ukraine conflict and agreed to stay in close contact on developments.&nbsp;A key focus was progress under the India-UK Technology Security Initiative (TSI), launched in 2024. Both sides noted advancements in telecom, critical minerals and artificial intelligence. Mr Doval welcomed the establishment of a Silicon Carbide-based compound semiconductor facility in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, a joint venture between UK firm Clas-SiC Wafer Fab Ltd. and Indian company SiCSem Pvt Ltd. It is set to become India’s first commercial compound semiconductor fab, supporting sectors from electric vehicles to defence. The NSAs agreed to expand cooperation in semiconductors, quantum technology, biotechnology and advanced materials, while strengthening institutional ties in cyber security.&nbsp;Defence ties have also gathered pace. The two sides reviewed the India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap and discussed opportunities for deeper industrial collaboration, including niche maritime technologies for the Indo-Pacific. Mr Doval highlighted prospects for UK original equipment manufacturers to partner with Indian firms and integrate into defence supply chains.&nbsp;The meeting comes as both countries seek to bolster resilience in critical supply chains and counter shared security threats at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. The UK describes the partnership with Delhi as a cornerstone of their Indo-Pacific strategy, while India views London as an important partner in technology and defence diversification.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted his UK counterpart Jonathan Powell reviewed the India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap and discussed opportunities for deeper industrial collaboration, including niche maritime technologies for the Indo-Pacific.

New Delhi: India and the UK have pledged to intensify cooperation against pro-Khalistan extremism and address threats to maritime trade in the Strait of Hormuz, as the two countries’ national security advisers held high-level talks in New Delhi. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted his UK counterpart Jonathan Powell on Thursday for the annual India-UK Strategic Dialogue. The closed-door discussions, which included both restricted and delegation-level sessions, focused on advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership amid a turbulent global security environment. Officials from both sides reiterated their commitment to the goals outlined in the India-UK Vision 2035 document, particularly in technology, defence, and security. They agreed to deepen collaboration between law enforcement agencies to tackle terrorism, extremism and pro-Khalistan elements. The Indian side thanked the UK for its ongoing support and stressed the need to sustain momentum in joint operations. The advisers held an in-depth exchange on regional and global challenges. They discussed the conflict in West Asia and its repercussions on maritime security and vital trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which a significant portion of India’s energy imports pass. Mr Doval emphasised that “dialogue and diplomacy” remained the only viable path to resolution. The two sides also reviewed the Russia-Ukraine conflict and agreed to stay in close contact on developments. A key focus was progress under the India-UK Technology Security Initiative (TSI), launched in 2024. Both sides noted advancements in telecom, critical minerals and artificial intelligence. Mr Doval welcomed the establishment of a Silicon Carbide-based compound semiconductor facility in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, a joint venture between UK firm Clas-SiC Wafer Fab Ltd. and Indian company SiCSem Pvt Ltd. It is set to become India’s first commercial compound semiconductor fab, supporting sectors from electric vehicles to defence. The NSAs agreed to expand cooperation in semiconductors, quantum technology, biotechnology and advanced materials, while strengthening institutional ties in cyber security. Defence ties have also gathered pace. The two sides reviewed the India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap and discussed opportunities for deeper industrial collaboration, including niche maritime technologies for the Indo-Pacific. Mr Doval highlighted prospects for UK original equipment manufacturers to partner with Indian firms and integrate into defence supply chains. The meeting comes as both countries seek to bolster resilience in critical supply chains and counter shared security threats at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. The UK describes the partnership with Delhi as a cornerstone of their Indo-Pacific strategy, while India views London as an important partner in technology and defence diversification.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval hosted his UK counterpart Jonathan Powell reviewed the India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap and discussed opportunities for deeper industrial collaboration, including niche maritime technologies for the Indo-Pacific.

India, UK NSAs discuss Hormuz, closer cooperation against Khalistan extremism

Hours after President Donald Trump shared a social media post describing India in derogatory terms, it sparked a political uproar, prompting United States officials to move quickly to contain the damage, with the US Embassy in New Delhi highlighting India as a “great country” and underscoring strong ties with its leadership, pointing to Trump’s personal rapport with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom he has often described as a “great friend”.&nbsp;A US Embassy spokesperson said, “The President has said India is a great country with a very good friend of mine at the top,” in an attempt to ease tensions after the post triggered a strong reaction.&nbsp;The controversy stems from a social media post shared by Trump that included a transcript from a conservative talk show hosted by Michael Savage. In the discussion, Savage referred to US birthright citizenship and made claims about migrants arriving late in pregnancy to secure automatic citizenship for their children.&nbsp;&nbsp;The post further alleged that such migrants later bring family members from countries including India and China, referring to them as coming from “some other hellhole on the planet.”&nbsp;Responding to queries regarding the controversial social media post and subsequent clarification issued by US officials, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the remarks as “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste” and stated that they do not reflect the reality of India-US ties.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-that-s-where-mea-shrugs-off-trump-s-hellhole-comment-on-india-and-china-1776947554143">‘That’s where…’: MEA shrugs off Trump’s ‘hellhole’ comment on India and China</a>&nbsp;“We have seen the comments, as well as the subsequent statement issued by the US Embassy in response. The remarks are obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste. They certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-US relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests.”&nbsp;However, earlier in the day, the MEA played down the controversy as Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have seen some reports,” declining to elaborate further during a press briefing.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran also reacted to the controversy, defending India and China. The Consulate General of Iran in Hyderabad posted on X that both countries are “cradles of civilisation” and criticised the remarks, taking a dig at Trump amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Responding to queries on the controversial post and subsequent US clarification, the MEA said the remarks were “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste” and do not reflect the reality of India-US ties.

Hours after President Donald Trump shared a social media post describing India in derogatory terms, it sparked a political uproar, prompting United States officials to move quickly to contain the damage, with the US Embassy in New Delhi highlighting India as a “great country” and underscoring strong ties with its leadership, pointing to Trump’s personal rapport with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom he has often described as a “great friend”. A US Embassy spokesperson said, “The President has said India is a great country with a very good friend of mine at the top,” in an attempt to ease tensions after the post triggered a strong reaction. The controversy stems from a social media post shared by Trump that included a transcript from a conservative talk show hosted by Michael Savage. In the discussion, Savage referred to US birthright citizenship and made claims about migrants arriving late in pregnancy to secure automatic citizenship for their children. The post further alleged that such migrants later bring family members from countries including India and China, referring to them as coming from “some other hellhole on the planet.” Responding to queries regarding the controversial social media post and subsequent clarification issued by US officials, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the remarks as “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste” and stated that they do not reflect the reality of India-US ties. Also Read: ‘That’s where…’: MEA shrugs off Trump’s ‘hellhole’ comment on India and China “We have seen the comments, as well as the subsequent statement issued by the US Embassy in response. The remarks are obviously uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste. They certainly do not reflect the reality of the India-US relationship, which has long been based on mutual respect and shared interests.” However, earlier in the day, the MEA played down the controversy as Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have seen some reports,” declining to elaborate further during a press briefing. Meanwhile, Iran also reacted to the controversy, defending India and China. The Consulate General of Iran in Hyderabad posted on X that both countries are “cradles of civilisation” and criticised the remarks, taking a dig at Trump amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Responding to queries on the controversial post and subsequent US clarification, the MEA said the remarks were “uninformed, inappropriate and in poor taste” and do not reflect the reality of India-US ties.

'President has said India is a great country': US rushes to damage control after Trump’s ‘hellhole’ remark

The polling for the Assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu concluded at 6 pm on Thursday (April 23), recording unprecedented participation. West Bengal registered 91.91 per cent voting in Phase I, while Tamil Nadu recorded 84.80 per cent, according to the Election Commission of India.&nbsp;After the conclusion of polling, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar described the record turnout as the “highest since Independence” in both states and saluted voters for participating in the “festival of democracy” in such large numbers.&nbsp;"Highest ever percentage of polling in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu since Independence - ECI salutes each voter of West Bengal and Tamil Nadu," Kumar said.&nbsp;Several districts in West Bengal crossed the 90 per cent mark, highlighting widespread enthusiasm. Dakshin Dinajpur recorded the highest participation at 94.85 per cent, followed by Cooch Behar (94.54 per cent), Birbhum (93.70 per cent), Jalpaiguri (93.23 per cent) and Murshidabad (92.93 per cent).<h2>Tamil Nadu records robust voter participation</h2>Tamil Nadu also reported significant participation across key districts. Karur led with 92.48 per cent, followed by Salem (90.42 per cent), Dharmapuri (90.02 per cent), Erode (89.97 per cent) and Namakkal (89.63 per cent). The numbers indicate steady involvement across both urban and rural areas.&nbsp;Compared to 85.2 per cent in West Bengal and 76.6 per cent in Tamil Nadu during the 2021 Assembly elections, the latest figures mark a significant rise in voter turnout across both states.&nbsp;West Bengal voted for 152 seats in the first phase on Thursday, while Tamil Nadu cast ballots for all 234 seats in a single round on the same day. The second round in Bengal, covering the remaining 142 constituencies, is slated for April 29, completing voting across all 294 assembly seats.&nbsp;&nbsp;Results for all five poll-bound states, including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry, will be declared on May 4.&nbsp;Bengal polls gripped the nation's attention, with the BJP undertaking an intense campaign through back-to-back high-profile rallies by PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to unseat Mamata Banerjee after 15 years of Trinamool Congress rule.&nbsp;&nbsp;The BJP, which managed only 77 seats in 2021, is making a renewed push for power, while Banerjee seeks a fourth consecutive term. The campaign has been defined by disputes over electoral rolls, border security, undocumented migration and broader concerns over governance, women's safety and anti-incumbency.

West Bengal voted for 152 seats in the first phase on April 23, while Tamil Nadu cast ballots for all 234 seats in a single round on the same day. The second round in Bengal, covering the remaining 142 constituencies, is slated for April 29.

The polling for the Assembly elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu concluded at 6 pm on Thursday (April 23), recording unprecedented participation. West Bengal registered 91.91 per cent voting in Phase I, while Tamil Nadu recorded 84.80 per cent, according to the Election Commission of India. After the conclusion of polling, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar described the record turnout as the “highest since Independence” in both states and saluted voters for participating in the “festival of democracy” in such large numbers. "Highest ever percentage of polling in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu since Independence - ECI salutes each voter of West Bengal and Tamil Nadu," Kumar said. Several districts in West Bengal crossed the 90 per cent mark, highlighting widespread enthusiasm. Dakshin Dinajpur recorded the highest participation at 94.85 per cent, followed by Cooch Behar (94.54 per cent), Birbhum (93.70 per cent), Jalpaiguri (93.23 per cent) and Murshidabad (92.93 per cent). Tamil Nadu records robust voter participation Tamil Nadu also reported significant participation across key districts. Karur led with 92.48 per cent, followed by Salem (90.42 per cent), Dharmapuri (90.02 per cent), Erode (89.97 per cent) and Namakkal (89.63 per cent). The numbers indicate steady involvement across both urban and rural areas. Compared to 85.2 per cent in West Bengal and 76.6 per cent in Tamil Nadu during the 2021 Assembly elections, the latest figures mark a significant rise in voter turnout across both states. West Bengal voted for 152 seats in the first phase on Thursday, while Tamil Nadu cast ballots for all 234 seats in a single round on the same day. The second round in Bengal, covering the remaining 142 constituencies, is slated for April 29, completing voting across all 294 assembly seats. Results for all five poll-bound states, including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry, will be declared on May 4. Bengal polls gripped the nation's attention, with the BJP undertaking an intense campaign through back-to-back high-profile rallies by PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to unseat Mamata Banerjee after 15 years of Trinamool Congress rule. The BJP, which managed only 77 seats in 2021, is making a renewed push for power, while Banerjee seeks a fourth consecutive term. The campaign has been defined by disputes over electoral rolls, border security, undocumented migration and broader concerns over governance, women's safety and anti-incumbency.

West Bengal voted for 152 seats in the first phase on April 23, while Tamil Nadu cast ballots for all 234 seats in a single round on the same day. The second round in Bengal, covering the remaining 142 constituencies, is slated for April 29.

Highest-ever voter turnout since Independence: West Bengal at 91.91%, Tamil Nadu at 84.80%

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman Samir V Kamat said on Thursday that space has become the dominant domain that will determine the outcome of future conflicts, along with acting as a supporting tool for national security. He called for a "whole-of-nation" approach to close India's capability gap with rivals whose space programmes are increasing at an alarming pace.&nbsp;Speaking at the 4th Indian DefSpace Symposium at Manekshaw Centre on "Strengthening India's Defence and Space Industry Synergy," Kamat underscored the growing role of DRDO in military space while emphasising that catching up will be a "Herculean challenge" without greater investment and collaboration. While the Indian Space Research Organisation continues to lead India’s civilian space efforts, the Defence Research and Development Organisation has been tasked with handling military space capabilities following the creation of the Defence Space Agency, Kamat said. Although still a smaller part of its mandate, this role is expanding quickly. "It needs to grow much more if we have to keep pace with our rivals," he said.<h3>India's sovereign capabilities in critical technologies</h3>He stressed the need for faster growth to keep up with global competitors. To address this, DRDO is increasingly collaborating with startups, MSMEs, and academia, and has established Centres of Excellence in select institutions, with space emerging as a key focus area. "There is a lot of interest among academia and startups to contribute to the defence part of the space programme," Kamat said, and added that he is optimistic that India will gain the necessary impetus and sovereign capabilities in critical technologies in the upcoming years. Kamat clarified that while some space technologies can still be imported from other nations, several areas remain restricted and require indigenous development. DRDO is currently concentrating on strengthening space situational awareness to safeguard India’s orbital assets, enhancing the restricted military-grade service of NavIC, and advancing space-based surveillance along with imaging radar technologies. It is also developing early missile launch detection systems, a capability emphasised by Air Chief Marshal Bhaduriya. He highlighted that closer integration between civilian and military sectors will be crucial, especially in overlapping fields like imaging radar. However, he pointed out that India’s investment in research remains insufficient, with only 0.65 per cent of GDP allocated to R&amp;D and just 5 per cent of the defence budget devoted to it. "We definitely need to scale this up if we have to catch up with our rivals," he said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/quantum-computing-myths-vs-reality-understanding-what-technology-can-and-can-t-do-1776867752214">Quantum computing myths vs reality: Understanding what technology can (and can’t) do</a>

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman Samir V Kamat underscored the growing role of DRDO in military space while emphasising that catching up will be a "Herculean challenge" without greater investment and collaboration.

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman Samir V Kamat said on Thursday that space has become the dominant domain that will determine the outcome of future conflicts, along with acting as a supporting tool for national security. He called for a "whole-of-nation" approach to close India's capability gap with rivals whose space programmes are increasing at an alarming pace. Speaking at the 4th Indian DefSpace Symposium at Manekshaw Centre on "Strengthening India's Defence and Space Industry Synergy," Kamat underscored the growing role of DRDO in military space while emphasising that catching up will be a "Herculean challenge" without greater investment and collaboration. While the Indian Space Research Organisation continues to lead India’s civilian space efforts, the Defence Research and Development Organisation has been tasked with handling military space capabilities following the creation of the Defence Space Agency, Kamat said. Although still a smaller part of its mandate, this role is expanding quickly. "It needs to grow much more if we have to keep pace with our rivals," he said. India's sovereign capabilities in critical technologies He stressed the need for faster growth to keep up with global competitors. To address this, DRDO is increasingly collaborating with startups, MSMEs, and academia, and has established Centres of Excellence in select institutions, with space emerging as a key focus area. "There is a lot of interest among academia and startups to contribute to the defence part of the space programme," Kamat said, and added that he is optimistic that India will gain the necessary impetus and sovereign capabilities in critical technologies in the upcoming years. Kamat clarified that while some space technologies can still be imported from other nations, several areas remain restricted and require indigenous development. DRDO is currently concentrating on strengthening space situational awareness to safeguard India’s orbital assets, enhancing the restricted military-grade service of NavIC, and advancing space-based surveillance along with imaging radar technologies. It is also developing early missile launch detection systems, a capability emphasised by Air Chief Marshal Bhaduriya. He highlighted that closer integration between civilian and military sectors will be crucial, especially in overlapping fields like imaging radar. However, he pointed out that India’s investment in research remains insufficient, with only 0.65 per cent of GDP allocated to R&D and just 5 per cent of the defence budget devoted to it. "We definitely need to scale this up if we have to catch up with our rivals," he said. Also read: Quantum computing myths vs reality: Understanding what technology can (and can’t) do

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman Samir V Kamat underscored the growing role of DRDO in military space while emphasising that catching up will be a "Herculean challenge" without greater investment and collaboration.

‘Space will define future wars’: DRDO chief calls for urgent national push, sounds alarm on defence gap

Former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane finally responded to the controversy over the “jo uchit samjho, woh karo (do whatever you deem appropriate)” message allegedly conveyed to him by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the border dispute with China and said it meant that the government had ‘total faith’ in the armed forces.&nbsp;General Naravane said the remark showed the government’s “total faith” in the armed forces and said in an exclusive interview with the publication, India Today, there should be no politics over it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-that-s-where-mea-shrugs-off-trump-s-hellhole-comment-on-india-and-china-1776947554143">‘That’s where…’: MEA shrugs off Trump’s ‘hellhole’ comment on India and China</a><h2>‘Armed forces were given a free hand to respond’</h2>&nbsp;General Naravane pointed out that the armed forces were given a “free hand” to respond to the situation on the ground.&nbsp;“Jo uchit samjho woh karo shows the government had total faith in the armed forces. There should be no politics on the subject,” he said, after a controversy erupted in February when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tried to quote from General Naravane’s unpublished memoir in the Parliament, alleging that the remark indicated abdication of responsibility.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blockade-threats-and-breach-of-commitments-main-obstacles-to-talks-pezeshkian-1776884391981">‘US blockade, threats and breach of commitments main obstacles to talks’: Pezeshkian</a>&nbsp;General Naravane further said, “It basically shows the great confidence the government had in the army, its hierarchy, and the service chiefs. They knew that whatever decision was taken would be made while keeping all factors in mind.”&nbsp;General Naravane, who faced heat over his unpublished memoir after the controversy, also warned against politicising the military.“Armed forces are totally apolitical, unlike in our neighbourhood,” General Naravane said, taking a veiled dig at Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-security-alert-forces-press-evacuation-from-outdoor-positions-by-secret-service-1776878157084">White House security alert forces press evacuation from outdoor positions by Secret Service</a><h2>Rahul Gandhi raked up controversy during Budget session</h2>&nbsp;The controversy erupted during the Budget session of Parliament when Congress MP Rahul Gandhi made repeated attempts to quote from the unpublished memoir, ‘Four Stars of Destiny’. Gandhi was stopped by the Speaker as the book had not been published yet, but he did not stop there. He was seen bringing a copy of the book to the Parliament premises during the session.Citing excerpts from the book, Gandhi had claimed the former Army Chief informed Rajnath Singh and others that Chinese tanks were approaching. Gandhi claimed Naravane received no direct reply for a long time.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-bound-ship-among-two-vessels-attacked-in-strait-of-hormuz-seized-by-iran-s-irgc-1776859709438">India-bound ship among two vessels attacked in Strait of Hormuz, seized by Iran's IRGC</a>&nbsp;“The PM’s message conveyed to him was, ‘jo uchit samjho, woh karo’. This means Narendra Modi did not fulfil his responsibility... The army chief clearly said in this (book) that he felt alone and was abandoned by the entire establishment,” Rahul Gandhi claimed.The incident happened on August 31, 2020, as the Chinese military advanced towards Rechin La.The book was supposed to be released in 2024 by Penguin but is pending approval with the Ministry of Defence.&nbsp;<h2>‘Memoir personal perspective, not based on classified documents’</h2>&nbsp;The former army chief also stressed in the interview that the memoir reflected his personal perspective and was not based on any “classified documents”.General Naravane also said that India held the upper hand in the border standoff with China. He emphasised that the world saw how China dismantled its fortifications and pulled back troops in certain areas.“India dominated the situation along the LAC. The world saw China destroy their fortifications and move back,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-dead-several-injured-after-dangerous-chemical-leak-in-west-virginia-1776889609337">Two dead, several injured after dangerous chemical leak in West Virginia</a>&nbsp;General Naravane also rejected claims by the opposition that India lost territory and stated firmly that “no territory was ceded”.He added that there was close coordination between the government and the armed forces during the border tensions and that the decisions were taken jointly.

Former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane said the remark showed the government’s “total faith” in the armed forces and said there should be no politics over it. He added that the armed forces were given a “free hand” to respond to the situation on the ground.

Former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane finally responded to the controversy over the “jo uchit samjho, woh karo (do whatever you deem appropriate)” message allegedly conveyed to him by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the border dispute with China and said it meant that the government had ‘total faith’ in the armed forces. General Naravane said the remark showed the government’s “total faith” in the armed forces and said in an exclusive interview with the publication, India Today, there should be no politics over it. Also Read: ‘That’s where…’: MEA shrugs off Trump’s ‘hellhole’ comment on India and China ‘Armed forces were given a free hand to respond’ General Naravane pointed out that the armed forces were given a “free hand” to respond to the situation on the ground. “Jo uchit samjho woh karo shows the government had total faith in the armed forces. There should be no politics on the subject,” he said, after a controversy erupted in February when Congress leader Rahul Gandhi tried to quote from General Naravane’s unpublished memoir in the Parliament, alleging that the remark indicated abdication of responsibility. Also Read: ‘US blockade, threats and breach of commitments main obstacles to talks’: Pezeshkian General Naravane further said, “It basically shows the great confidence the government had in the army, its hierarchy, and the service chiefs. They knew that whatever decision was taken would be made while keeping all factors in mind.” General Naravane, who faced heat over his unpublished memoir after the controversy, also warned against politicising the military. “Armed forces are totally apolitical, unlike in our neighbourhood,” General Naravane said, taking a veiled dig at Pakistan. Also Read: White House security alert forces press evacuation from outdoor positions by Secret Service Rahul Gandhi raked up controversy during Budget session The controversy erupted during the Budget session of Parliament when Congress MP Rahul Gandhi made repeated attempts to quote from the unpublished memoir, ‘Four Stars of Destiny’. Gandhi was stopped by the Speaker as the book had not been published yet, but he did not stop there. He was seen bringing a copy of the book to the Parliament premises during the session. Citing excerpts from the book, Gandhi had claimed the former Army Chief informed Rajnath Singh and others that Chinese tanks were approaching. Gandhi claimed Naravane received no direct reply for a long time. Also Read: India-bound ship among two vessels attacked in Strait of Hormuz, seized by Iran's IRGC “The PM’s message conveyed to him was, ‘jo uchit samjho, woh karo’. This means Narendra Modi did not fulfil his responsibility... The army chief clearly said in this (book) that he felt alone and was abandoned by the entire establishment,” Rahul Gandhi claimed. The incident happened on August 31, 2020, as the Chinese military advanced towards Rechin La. The book was supposed to be released in 2024 by Penguin but is pending approval with the Ministry of Defence. ‘Memoir personal perspective, not based on classified documents’ The former army chief also stressed in the interview that the memoir reflected his personal perspective and was not based on any “classified documents”. General Naravane also said that India held the upper hand in the border standoff with China. He emphasised that the world saw how China dismantled its fortifications and pulled back troops in certain areas. “India dominated the situation along the LAC. The world saw China destroy their fortifications and move back,” he said. Also Read: Two dead, several injured after dangerous chemical leak in West Virginia General Naravane also rejected claims by the opposition that India lost territory and stated firmly that “no territory was ceded”. He added that there was close coordination between the government and the armed forces during the border tensions and that the decisions were taken jointly.

Former Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane said the remark showed the government’s “total faith” in the armed forces and said there should be no politics over it. He added that the armed forces were given a “free hand” to respond to the situation on the ground.

‘It showed govt’s ‘total faith’ in armed forces’: Gen Naravane on ‘jo uchit samjho woh karo’ remark in memoir

The Ministry of External Affairs shrugged off US President Donald Trump’s “hellhole” remark for India and China as spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal refrained from giving more weightage to it and just said that “we have seen some reports”. Responding to a question on Trump’s remark during a press briefing on Thursday, Jaiswal said, “We have seen some reports. That’s where I leave it.”&nbsp;Trump had shared an anti-immigration social media post in which a derogatory term was used for both India and China.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | On US president Donald Trump&#39;s social media post mentioning India and China as &#39;hellhole&#39;, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal (<a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a>) says, &quot;We have seen some reports. That&#39;s where I leave it.&quot; (Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a>)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/I70F7pfCl9">pic.twitter.com/I70F7pfCl9</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2047268978813435931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-blockade-threats-and-breach-of-commitments-main-obstacles-to-talks-pezeshkian-1776884391981">‘US blockade, threats and breach of commitments main obstacles to talks’: Pezeshkian</a>&nbsp;Trump had posted a transcript from a conservative talk show hosted by Michael Savage. In the show, Savage was speaking about US’ birthright citizenship and said that people allegedly arrive in the US late in pregnancy and gain automatic citizenship for their child. Trump said that such people later bring in family members from countries including India and China, which he referred to as “some other hellhole on the planet.”&nbsp;“A baby here becomes an instant citizen, and then they bring the entire family in from China or India or some other hellhole on the planet. You don’t have to go too far to see that. English is not spoken here anymore. That there’s almost no loyalty to this country amongst the immigrant class coming in today, which was not always the case,” it read.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-security-alert-forces-press-evacuation-from-outdoor-positions-by-secret-service-1776878157084">White House security alert forces press evacuation from outdoor positions by Secret Service</a>&nbsp;It further alleges systemic bias in employment and immigration systems. “You have to be from India or China because almost all the internal mechanisms are set up to run by Indians and Chinese.”The post also claims that integration seen in earlier waves of European immigration “is long over,” arguing that the United States has shifted from a “melting pot” to “cash in pot”.&nbsp;He also argued that immigration trends were reshaping American society and criticised the US Constitution as outdated, saying it is not suited for modern realities such as air travel and the internet.&nbsp;<h2>Congress condemns Trump’s remark, targets government</h2>&nbsp;India’s main opposition party, the Congress, reacted strongly as it condemned the remarks and targeted the government, calling the statement “extremely insulting and anti-India” and demanded a firm response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-bound-ship-among-two-vessels-attacked-in-strait-of-hormuz-seized-by-iran-s-irgc-1776859709438">India-bound ship among two vessels attacked in Strait of Hormuz, seized by Iran's IRGC</a>&nbsp;US President Trump has called India a “HELLHOLE,” the Congress said in its reaction, adding that the comment “hurts every Indian” and urging PM Modi to raise the issue with Washington. “However, given his track record so far, it cannot be expected that he will say anything in front of Trump,” it added.&nbsp;<h2>Iran rushes to defend China and India, slams Trump</h2>&nbsp;Iran, which is currently embroiled in a major conflict with the United States, jumped in to defend China and India, saying that both countries are the “cradles of civilisation” and took a potshot at Trump.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-dead-several-injured-after-dangerous-chemical-leak-in-west-virginia-1776889609337">Two dead, several injured after dangerous chemical leak in West Virginia</a>&nbsp;The Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Hyderabad posted on X, “China and India are the cradles of civilisation. In fact, the #hellhole is where its war criminal president threatened to decimate the civilisation in Iran.”Trump had earlier warned that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” if Iran did not agree to his terms to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran, which is currently embroiled in a major conflict with the United States, jumped in to defend China and India, saying that both countries are the “cradles of civilisation” and took a potshot at President Donald Trump without taking his name.

The Ministry of External Affairs shrugged off US President Donald Trump’s “hellhole” remark for India and China as spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal refrained from giving more weightage to it and just said that “we have seen some reports”. Responding to a question on Trump’s remark during a press briefing on Thursday, Jaiswal said, “We have seen some reports. That’s where I leave it.” Trump had shared an anti-immigration social media post in which a derogatory term was used for both India and China.

Iran, which is currently embroiled in a major conflict with the United States, jumped in to defend China and India, saying that both countries are the “cradles of civilisation” and took a potshot at President Donald Trump without taking his name.

‘That’s where…’: MEA shrugs off Trump’s ‘hellhole’ comment on India and China

The Delhi Police arrested a 19-year-old former domestic worker for the brutal rape and murder of a 22-year-old woman in South Delhi’s Kailash Hills, uncovering a disturbing sequence of events that began hours earlier in Rajasthan and culminated in a meticulously executed crime inside a residential home.&nbsp;The victim, an engineering graduate from IIT and an UPSC aspirant, was the daughter of a senior Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer, and police identified the accused as Rahul Meena, who was apprehended from a hotel in Dwarka within 12 hours of the incident following an intensive multi-team investigation.&nbsp;According to investigators, the crime took place on Wednesday morning when the victim was alone at home, as her parents had stepped out for their routine gym session around 6:40 am, a detail that the accused was fully aware of due to his previous employment at the residence for nearly eight months.&nbsp;Police said Meena entered the house using a spare key that had been kept outside, using his familiarity with the household’s security arrangements, and when the victim resisted his attempt to commit robbery, he attacked her with a blunt object, strangled her using a mobile phone charging cable, and sexually assaulted her during the course of the assault.The victim’s father discovered her lying in a pool of blood at around 8:00 am upon returning home, after which she was rushed to a private hospital, where doctors declared her dead.&nbsp;CCTV footage captured the accused entering the premises in a yellow shirt and exiting approximately 40 minutes later in a different set of clothes while carrying a backpack, with police stating that he fled with cash and valuables worth nearly Rs 2.5 lakh.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hellhole-on-planet-trump-target-india-china-over-birthright-citizenship-calls-policy-ludicrous-1776934076489">'Hellhole on planet': Trump target India, China over birthright citizenship, calls policy ‘ludicrous’</a>&nbsp;The Delhi Police formed at least 15 teams and examined footage from over 100 CCTV cameras across the area, eventually tracking the accused through a digital trail that included the use of a stolen mobile phone and hotel Wi-Fi logs in Dwarka, which led to his arrest.&nbsp;Further investigation revealed that Meena had already committed another sexual assault in his native village in Alwar, Rajasthan, just hours before arriving in Delhi, and he allegedly travelled in an ambulance in an attempt to evade law enforcement authorities.&nbsp;Police officials added that the accused had been dismissed from his job six weeks earlier due to financial misconduct and a gambling addiction, and he has now been booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for charges including rape, murder, and robbery.

Investigation revealed that Meena had already committed another sexual assault in his native village in Alwar, Rajasthan, just hours before arriving in Delhi, and he allegedly travelled in an ambulance in an attempt to evade law enforcement authorities.

The Delhi Police arrested a 19-year-old former domestic worker for the brutal rape and murder of a 22-year-old woman in South Delhi’s Kailash Hills, uncovering a disturbing sequence of events that began hours earlier in Rajasthan and culminated in a meticulously executed crime inside a residential home. The victim, an engineering graduate from IIT and an UPSC aspirant, was the daughter of a senior Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer, and police identified the accused as Rahul Meena, who was apprehended from a hotel in Dwarka within 12 hours of the incident following an intensive multi-team investigation. According to investigators, the crime took place on Wednesday morning when the victim was alone at home, as her parents had stepped out for their routine gym session around 6:40 am, a detail that the accused was fully aware of due to his previous employment at the residence for nearly eight months. Police said Meena entered the house using a spare key that had been kept outside, using his familiarity with the household’s security arrangements, and when the victim resisted his attempt to commit robbery, he attacked her with a blunt object, strangled her using a mobile phone charging cable, and sexually assaulted her during the course of the assault. The victim’s father discovered her lying in a pool of blood at around 8:00 am upon returning home, after which she was rushed to a private hospital, where doctors declared her dead. CCTV footage captured the accused entering the premises in a yellow shirt and exiting approximately 40 minutes later in a different set of clothes while carrying a backpack, with police stating that he fled with cash and valuables worth nearly Rs 2.5 lakh. Also Read: 'Hellhole on planet': Trump target India, China over birthright citizenship, calls policy ‘ludicrous’ The Delhi Police formed at least 15 teams and examined footage from over 100 CCTV cameras across the area, eventually tracking the accused through a digital trail that included the use of a stolen mobile phone and hotel Wi-Fi logs in Dwarka, which led to his arrest. Further investigation revealed that Meena had already committed another sexual assault in his native village in Alwar, Rajasthan, just hours before arriving in Delhi, and he allegedly travelled in an ambulance in an attempt to evade law enforcement authorities. Police officials added that the accused had been dismissed from his job six weeks earlier due to financial misconduct and a gambling addiction, and he has now been booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for charges including rape, murder, and robbery.

Investigation revealed that Meena had already committed another sexual assault in his native village in Alwar, Rajasthan, just hours before arriving in Delhi, and he allegedly travelled in an ambulance in an attempt to evade law enforcement authorities.

Delhi horror: Ex-domestic worker held for rape, murder of IRS officer’s daughter in Kailash Hills

In a striking fusion of democratic tradition and cutting-edge technology, voters at the Government Higher Secondary School in Tamil Nadu’s Vellore were greeted by an unusual election official on Thursday (Apr 23). The initiative, part of the Election Commission’s effort to increase voter turnout and modernise the polling experience for the 2026 Assembly elections, saw the robot stationed at the entrance of a designated "model polling booth". Dressed in traditional attire and programmed with multilingual capabilities, it offered a high-tech welcome that turned a routine civic duty into a memorable event for the local community.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-bengal-phase-1-polls-violence-reported-in-murshidabad-malda-1776941981866/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-bengal-phase-1-polls-violence-reported-in-murshidabad-malda-1776941981866/embed</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As citizens approached the Government School, which is serving as a primary polling center, the robot extended its mechanical arms to offer roses to early morning voters. The robot was equipped to provide basic assistance, such as guiding voters to their respective booths and offering information on the documents required for identification.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/tamil-nadu-election-2026-richest-candidates-list-1776928800940">Top 10 richest candidate in the Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2026</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Tamil Nadu Elections 2026 | Vellore: A robot has been stationed at the polling booth set up at the Government Muslim Higher Secondary School to welcome voters and attract public attention. Dressed in traditional Tamil attire, the robot is greeting members of the public… <a href="https://t.co/9nCWJjwFhd">pic.twitter.com/9nCWJjwFhd</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047241122918105220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;The deployment is part of a broader strategy by the district administration to create "theme-based" polling stations. Alongside the technological attraction, the booth featured eco-friendly decorations and distributed tree saplings to first-time voters, emphasising a message of sustainable growth.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-assembly-elections-2026-mk-stalin-edappadi-k-palaniswami-vijay-tamilaga-vettri-kazhagam-aiadmk-dmk-bjp-what-to-expect-bjp-congress-1776906238159">Stalin vs Palaniswami vs Vijay: Tamil Nadu's unpredictable election begins today</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The robot, developed by a local tech start-up in collaboration with regional engineering students, features advanced mobility, hand gestures, and a voice interface capable of communicating in Tamil and English. Election officials noted that such innovations are particularly effective in urban and semi-urban pockets like Vellore to engage younger demographics and tech-savvy citizens.

Voters in Vellore were greeted by the humanoid robot ‘Nila’ AI assistants during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Stationed at model polling booths, these robots distributed roses and shook hands with voters.

In a striking fusion of democratic tradition and cutting-edge technology, voters at the Government Higher Secondary School in Tamil Nadu’s Vellore were greeted by an unusual election official on Thursday (Apr 23). The initiative, part of the Election Commission’s effort to increase voter turnout and modernise the polling experience for the 2026 Assembly elections, saw the robot stationed at the entrance of a designated "model polling booth". Dressed in traditional attire and programmed with multilingual capabilities, it offered a high-tech welcome that turned a routine civic duty into a memorable event for the local community. https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-bengal-phase-1-polls-violence-reported-in-murshidabad-malda-1776941981866/embed As citizens approached the Government School, which is serving as a primary polling center, the robot extended its mechanical arms to offer roses to early morning voters. The robot was equipped to provide basic assistance, such as guiding voters to their respective booths and offering information on the documents required for identification. Also read: Top 10 richest candidate in the Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2026

Voters in Vellore were greeted by the humanoid robot ‘Nila’ AI assistants during the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Stationed at model polling booths, these robots distributed roses and shook hands with voters.

Tech meets tradition: Humanoid robot welcomes voters at Tamil Nadu polling booth

According to a report by the Association for Democratic Reform, the Tamil Nadu Assembly election had 981 out of the 4023 crorepati candidates, which is approximately 25 per cent. Here  are the Top 10 candidates with the highest asset value

Superstar C Joseph Vijay, Lottery queen Leema Rose Martin: Top 10 richest candidates in the Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2026

One year after the Pahalgam terror attack, how is India taking the message global? On Capitol Hill, an exhibition puts faces to the victims and calls for zero tolerance against terror.

How did US lawmakers react? Scroll down to see images from the exhibition.

One year after Pahalgam terror attack, India brings 'Human Cost of Terrorism' to Capitol Hill | In Pics

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta today conducted a surprise inspection of Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital and interacted with patients and their families to assess arrangements and the availability of doctors. She reviewed feedback from doctors, staff and the hospital administration, and issued necessary directions to make healthcare services more modern, swift, compassionate and citizen-centric.&nbsp;“Our commitment is to ensure that every citizen of Delhi experiences a healthcare system where treatment is timely, facilities are modern, surroundings are clean, and every patient is served with dignity. Keeping the summer season in view, the hospital administration has been directed to accord the highest priority to the availability of medicines, drinking water, cleanliness, patient convenience and all essential arrangements,” Rekha Gupta said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-gps-guided-mines-pentagon-in-secret-briefing-warns-congress-reopening-strait-of-hormuz-is-a-6-month-nightmare-leaked-here-s-why-1776917945302">'GPS-guided mines?': Pentagon, in secret briefing, warns Congress reopening Strait of Hormuz is a 6-month nightmare - Here's why</a>

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta reviewed feedback from doctors, staff and the hospital administration, and issued necessary directions to make healthcare services more modern, swift, compassionate and citizen-centric.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta today conducted a surprise inspection of Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital and interacted with patients and their families to assess arrangements and the availability of doctors. She reviewed feedback from doctors, staff and the hospital administration, and issued necessary directions to make healthcare services more modern, swift, compassionate and citizen-centric. “Our commitment is to ensure that every citizen of Delhi experiences a healthcare system where treatment is timely, facilities are modern, surroundings are clean, and every patient is served with dignity. Keeping the summer season in view, the hospital administration has been directed to accord the highest priority to the availability of medicines, drinking water, cleanliness, patient convenience and all essential arrangements,” Rekha Gupta said. Also read: 'GPS-guided mines?': Pentagon, in secret briefing, warns Congress reopening Strait of Hormuz is a 6-month nightmare - Here's why

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta reviewed feedback from doctors, staff and the hospital administration, and issued necessary directions to make healthcare services more modern, swift, compassionate and citizen-centric.

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta conducts surprise hospital check, emphasises better healthcare access

Data collated by the Association for Democratic Reform from the West Bengal Assembly Elections candidate disclosures reveal that a whopping 22 per cent, 629 out of the 2926 candidates, are crorepatis. Here are the top 10 richest candidates in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections.

Top 10 richest candidates in West Bengal Assembly elections 2026

Will Indian vehicle owners soon face a petrol, diesel price hike of ₹25-28 per litre? As reports suggest that a massive fuel price hike is imminent, the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in a X post, has issued clarification to consumers. The MoPNG said that the petrol, diesel price hike was 'FAKE NEWS' and insisted that the reports were "mischievous and misleading" reports specifically "designed to create fear and panic amongst the citizens." This comes as global oil markets remain on edge from the ongoing US-Iran conflict.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-assembly-elections-2026-poll-violence-crude-bomb-hurled-in-murshidabad-s-nowda-several-injured-watch-1776918580159">West Bengal poll violence: Crude bomb hurled in Murshidabad’s Nowda, several injured | WATCH</a><h2>Indian government seeks to reassure consumers</h2>As panic continues to grip markets amid the ongoing Iran war, Indian authorities moved to contain a wave of misinformation about domestic fuel prices and supply, issuing back-to-back clarifications aimed at reassuring the public.The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in a post on X, labelled reports of an imminent petrol and diesel price hike as "FAKE NEWS." The ministry said no such proposal was under consideration and called the rumours "mischievous and misleading," designed to "create fear and panic amongst citizens." It added that India is currently the only country where petrol and diesel prices have not increased in four years, pointing to "relentless steps" taken by the Government of India and Oil PSUs to shield consumers from "steep increases in international prices".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FAKE NEWS There are some news reports suggesting a price hike of petrol and diesel. It is hereby clarified that there is no such proposal under consideration by the Government. Such news items are designed to create fear and panic amongst the citizens and are mischievous and… <a href="https://t.co/yTAfJdah2o">pic.twitter.com/yTAfJdah2o</a>— Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas #MoPNG (@PetroleumMin) <a href="https://twitter.com/PetroleumMin/status/2047187486598980057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Adequate fuel supply available</h2>On the supply side, Indian Oil Corporation Limited moved to address concerns about fuel availability. IOCL's Executive Director and State Head Ashutosh Gupta on Wednesday (Apr 22) told reporters that stocks across Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh were at comfortable levels and that all refineries were operating at full capacity.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-gps-guided-mines-pentagon-in-secret-briefing-warns-congress-reopening-strait-of-hormuz-is-a-6-month-nightmare-leaked-here-s-why-1776917945302">Pentagon, in secret briefing, warns Congress reopening Strait of Hormuz is a 6-month nightmare - Here's why</a>He said that depots and terminals in J&amp;K and Ladakh currently hold around nine days of petrol stocks, 14 days of diesel and 11 days of LPG. Retail outlets also have an additional five days of petrol and diesel buffer. "Apart from this, all the retail outlets and the LPG agencies also have a stock which is typically varying from 5 days of petrol, diesel and 2 to 3 days of LPG stock," Gupta noted.In Punjab and the broader northern region, depot stocks stand at 12 days of petrol and 16 days of diesel, with retail outlets holding 13 days of petrol and six days of diesel, he noted.Gupta also sought to contextualise the numbers. "Sometimes it gives you a feeling that the stock is only for 9 days or 15 days, but this used to be the stock even before the conflict time," he said. "These are stocks which are regularly being recouped from the supply sources." He insisted that these were in line with normal supply cycles.The reassurances come as India navigates an increasingly complicated energy landscape. The country imports over 88 per cent of its crude requirements, with West Asia serving as one of its primary sourcing regions alongside Russia.The disruption to the Strait of Hormuz since late February has pushed global oil prices well above $100 a barrel, with oil prices up by nearly 40 per cent since the war broke out.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Will petrol and diesel prices jump ₹25–28 per litre in India? As reports create panic, the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has finally broken the silence. What did the government say? 

Scroll down to read.

Will Indian vehicle owners soon face a petrol, diesel price hike of ₹25-28 per litre? As reports suggest that a massive fuel price hike is imminent, the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in a X post, has issued clarification to consumers. The MoPNG said that the petrol, diesel price hike was 'FAKE NEWS' and insisted that the reports were "mischievous and misleading" reports specifically "designed to create fear and panic amongst the citizens." This comes as global oil markets remain on edge from the ongoing US-Iran conflict. Also read | West Bengal poll violence: Crude bomb hurled in Murshidabad’s Nowda, several injured | WATCH Indian government seeks to reassure consumers As panic continues to grip markets amid the ongoing Iran war, Indian authorities moved to contain a wave of misinformation about domestic fuel prices and supply, issuing back-to-back clarifications aimed at reassuring the public. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in a post on X, labelled reports of an imminent petrol and diesel price hike as "FAKE NEWS." The ministry said no such proposal was under consideration and called the rumours "mischievous and misleading," designed to "create fear and panic amongst citizens." It added that India is currently the only country where petrol and diesel prices have not increased in four years, pointing to "relentless steps" taken by the Government of India and Oil PSUs to shield consumers from "steep increases in international prices".

Will petrol and diesel prices jump ₹25–28 per litre in India? As reports create panic, the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has finally broken the silence. What did the government say?&nbsp;Scroll down to read.

FACT CHECK: Will petrol, diesel get ₹25-28 more expensive? Govt breaks silence on fuel price hike reports

Security forces on Thursday said they have arrested four over ground workers (OGWs), including a woman, in the Hazratbal area of Srinagar for reportedly providing logistical support to terrorists.According to officials, the arrests were made during a late-night operation. The accused have been identified as Zahoor Ahmad Mir, Bashir Ahmad Bhat, and Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, all residents of Hazratbal, along with Shazia Mohammad, a woman from the same locality.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-assembly-elections-2026-poll-violence-crude-bomb-hurled-in-murshidabad-s-nowda-several-injured-watch-1776918580159">West Bengal poll violence: Crude bomb hurled in Murshidabad’s Nowda, several injured | WATCH</a>During the operation, police said they recovered a hand grenade, 15 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, four mobile phones, and a sum of cash from their possession.A case has been registered under FIR No. 20/2026 at Police Station Ahmad Nagar under relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Arms Act. Officials added that further investigation into the matter is currently underway. &nbsp;

During the operation, police said they recovered a hand grenade, 15 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, four mobile phones, and a sum of cash from their possession.

Security forces on Thursday said they have arrested four over ground workers (OGWs), including a woman, in the Hazratbal area of Srinagar for reportedly providing logistical support to terrorists. According to officials, the arrests were made during a late-night operation. The accused have been identified as Zahoor Ahmad Mir, Bashir Ahmad Bhat, and Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, all residents of Hazratbal, along with Shazia Mohammad, a woman from the same locality. Also read | West Bengal poll violence: Crude bomb hurled in Murshidabad’s Nowda, several injured | WATCH During the operation, police said they recovered a hand grenade, 15 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, four mobile phones, and a sum of cash from their possession. A case has been registered under FIR No. 20/2026 at Police Station Ahmad Nagar under relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Arms Act. Officials added that further investigation into the matter is currently underway.

During the operation, police said they recovered a hand grenade, 15 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, four mobile phones, and a sum of cash from their possession.

Four OGWs, including woman, arrested in Srinagar’s Hazratbal; arms and ammunition recovered

West Bengal &nbsp;Assembly Elections 2026: Tension flared in Nowda, in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, during polling on Thursday (Apr 23) after a crude bomb was allegedly thrown near a voting area, leaving several people injured. The incident occurred in the middle of voting hours, triggering panic among voters and residents in the locality. Eyewitness accounts suggested a sudden blast disrupted the otherwise steady polling process, with people scrambling to move to safety.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-assembly-elections-2026-mamata-banerjee-narendra-modi-tmc-bjp-what-to-expect-phase-1-polls-1776905040581">West Bengal votes today: Mamata Banerjee faces her toughest test yet</a><h2>What happened in Nowda?</h2>Initial reports indicate that multiple individuals sustained injuries in the explosion. They have been taken to nearby medical facilities, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of casualties or the severity of injuries.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VIDEO | West Bengal Election 2026: Several people injured as unidentified people hurled crude bomb in Nowda, Murshidabad district. More details are awaited.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AssemblyPollsWithPTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AssemblyPollsWithPTI</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WestBengalPollsWithPTI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WestBengalPollsWithPTI</a> (Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a>) <a href="https://t.co/W7G5A9OqR6">pic.twitter.com/W7G5A9OqR6</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2047164192692826170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Security forces reached the spot shortly after the incident and have since launched search operations in the area. Police are attempting to identify those responsible and determine whether the attack was linked to the ongoing election process.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-why-didn-t-she-save-my-daughter-mother-of-rg-kar-rape-murder-victim-enters-west-bengal-election-fray-vows-to-defeat-mamata-banerjee-1775707531406">'Why didn't she save my daughter?': Mother of RG Kar rape-murder victim enters West Bengal election fray, vows to defeat Mamata Banerjee</a>Talking to the press later, Murshidabad ASP Majid Khan said, “The situation is peaceful. Nothing has happened anywhere...”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Murshidabad, West Bengal: ASP Majid Khan, says, &quot;The situation is peaceful. Nothing has happened anywhere...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/EnfCtiAmLd">https://t.co/EnfCtiAmLd</a> <a href="https://t.co/8tA8M18anU">pic.twitter.com/8tA8M18anU</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047179682697859406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>152 constituencies, 3.22 crore voters</h2>West Bengal went to the polls today (Thursday Apr 23) with 152 constituencies across the state voting in Phase 1. Over 3.22 crore voters will cast their ballots in Phase 1, the opening act of a two-phase contest that will ultimately determine whether Mamata Banerjee secures an unprecedented fourth consecutive term as Chief Minister, or whether the BJP finally comes to power in a state it has been chasing for years.Polling, which began at 7:00 am across the state for Phase 1 of the Assembly elections, has largely continued under heightened security, even as isolated incidents like this raise concerns. Authorities have not issued a detailed statement so far. The incident comes amid an already tense electoral atmosphere in parts of West Bengal, where polling has historically seen sporadic violence.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-blog-west-bengal-tamil-nadu-assembly-elections-2026-live-updates-voting-day-election-commission-of-india-aiadmk-dmk-bjp-congress-tmc-1776907499083">You can check LIVE updates on West Bengal Assembly elections 206 HERE</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Crude bomb disrupts voting in West Bengal: Tension erupted in Murshidabad after a crude bomb was thrown near a polling area during Phase 1, injuring several people.

Scroll down to read more.

West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Tension flared in Nowda, in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, during polling on Thursday (Apr 23) after a crude bomb was allegedly thrown near a voting area, leaving several people injured. The incident occurred in the middle of voting hours, triggering panic among voters and residents in the locality. Eyewitness accounts suggested a sudden blast disrupted the otherwise steady polling process, with people scrambling to move to safety. Also read | West Bengal votes today: Mamata Banerjee faces her toughest test yet What happened in Nowda? Initial reports indicate that multiple individuals sustained injuries in the explosion. They have been taken to nearby medical facilities, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of casualties or the severity of injuries.

Crude bomb disrupts voting in West Bengal: Tension erupted in Murshidabad after a crude bomb was thrown near a polling area during Phase 1, injuring several people.Scroll down to read more.

West Bengal poll violence: Crude bomb hurled in Murshidabad’s Nowda, several injured | WATCH

West Bengal, Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 Live Updates: Voting is underway in two of India’s most politically watched states, with Tamil Nadu and West Bengal going to the polls on Thursday in the 2026 Assembly elections.The day began with mock polling exercises at select booths, including a school in Chennai and another in Siliguri, to ensure that voting systems were functioning smoothly before the actual process kicked off. Polling opened at 7:00 am in both states and is scheduled to continue until 6:00 pm.Two states, different formatsTamil Nadu is voting in a single phase, meaning the entire state will decide its next government in one go. West Bengal, on the other hand, is holding elections in two phases, with the second round of voting set for April 29. Results for both states will be announced on May 4.Tamil Nadu: A contest with a twistIn Tamil Nadu, the main fight is shaping up between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance and the NDA bloc led by AIADMK.The DMK alliance includes the Congress, DMDK and VCK, while the AIADMK is contesting alongside the BJP and PMK.But this time, there is an added layer.Actor Vijay, entering politics with his party TVK, is making his electoral debut. His entry could disrupt the traditional two-front contest and turn it into a three-way race, something the state has not seen in a while.West Bengal: High stakes lashWest Bengal is heading into an intense contest.The ruling Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, is aiming for a fourth straight term. The BJP, which made significant gains in the last election by winning 77 seats, is pushing hard to convert that momentum into power.Beyond the big statesAlongside these elections, bypolls are also being held in Gujarat’s Umreth and Maharashtra’s Baramati and Rahuri constituencies. The results for these will also be declared on May 4.<h2>Stay connected to WION for all the updates, analysis, and developments on the West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026</h2>

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | North 24 Parganas, West Bengal | BJP National President Nitin Nabin says, &amp;quot;The first phase of voting has taken place. The public has ensured a very good turnout...The real face of TMC has been revealed today...There is a wave of support in favour of the BJP...&amp;quot; &lt;a href="https://t.co/1NFlUuTxLA"&gt;pic.twitter.com/1NFlUuTxLA&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047313024118362190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 23, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

'Clear wave of support': BJP President Nitin Nabin after first phase of voting in Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC candidate from Bhabanipur assembly constituency, Mamata Banerjee, on Thursday held a padyatra from Bhowanipur Kansaripara Shitala Mandir to Patua Para Crossing.The visuals of the Chief Minister's padyatra were shared from her official Facebook page. She also visited the Jain mandir.Meanwhile, the first phase of polling in West Bengal officially concluded amid tight security arrangements across constituencies at 6 PM.

Mamata Banerjee leads padyatra in Bhabanipur as Bengal phase 1 polling ends

Voter turnout surged to remarkable levels by 5 PM on Thursday, with West Bengal recording a massive 89.93% voter turnout rate, significantly ahead of Tamil Nadu, which also posted a strong 82.24%, according to the Election Commission. The late afternoon figures highlight an intense wave of voter participation across both states, as polling hours drew to a close.

Bengal leads with 89.93% turnout; Tamil Nadu at 82.24% by 5 pm

BJP candidate Agnimitra Paul's car was vandalised during the first phase of voting in West Bengal's Asansol on Thursday. The incident took place in the Rahamatnagar area. Paul said the rear portion of her car was severely damaged after a large stone was allegedly hurled at it while she was seated inside. "As I sat in the car, someone broke the glass of the car with a big stone... This has been happening repeatedly. Who will commit such an incident in a minority area?" she asked.

BJP’s Agnimitra Paul escapes unharmed as car vandalised in Asansol

Tamil Nadu recorded a voter turnout of 70 per cent by 3:00 pm, according to the Election Commission of India, while Chennai reported a slightly lower polling figure of 68.13 per cent.&nbsp;

70% voting in Tamil Nadu till 3 pm, Chennai at 68.13%

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed full confidence of the BJP victory in West Bengal assembly polls and launched a scathing attack on Trinamool Congress, saying "May 4 is the expiry date of TMC's syndicate and this reign of jungle law". Addressing an election rally here, PM Modi said there will be accountability for all wrongdoings after the results of the assembly polls are declared on May 4.

'May 4 is TMC’s expiry date': PM Modi hits out at ‘jungle raj’ in Bengal

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Central paramilitary personnel use lathi charge to clear crowd near a polling booth in Siliguri&amp;#39;s Dangipara as voting is underway in West Bengal for 152 of 294 seats&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;.&lt;br&gt;Video: ANI &lt;a href="https://t.co/ii2CFcTaeF"&gt;pic.twitter.com/ii2CFcTaeF&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; WION (@WIONews) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2047266664295838198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 23, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

West Bengal: Central forces lathi-charge crowd near Siliguri polling booth

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday responded to the Election Commission of India (ECI) issuing a notice to him over 'terrorist' remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that "our people will reply to it". Speaking to reporters, Kharge said, “Notice aane do. (Let the notice come). We will reply to it in the evening. Our people will reply to it.”

'Notice aane do…': Kharge hits back at EC over ‘terrorist’ jibe at PM Modi

Voter turnout in Bengal crosses 78% till 3p.m

Voter turnout in Bengal crosses 78% till 3p.m

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | West Bengal Elections 2026 | Father of singer Arijit Singh, Surinder Singh arrived at a polling booth in Murshidabad to cast his vote. &lt;a href="https://t.co/HSD06JU7bZ"&gt;pic.twitter.com/HSD06JU7bZ&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047234600217514249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 23, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Father of singer Arijit Singh, Surinder Singh arrived at a polling booth in Murshidabad to cast his vote

Addressing a public meeting in West Bengal’s Krishnanagar amid the first phase of the voting on Thursday, PM Modi said, “Jhalmuri maine khayi, lekin jhal TMC ko lagi hai. [I ate the jhal muri, but the spice hit TMC]”. He added that people have so much anger for TMC and its party leaders that in some states, they will not get a single seat.

‘Jhalmuri maine khayi, lekin jhal TMC ko lagi hai’: PM Modi's jibe at TMC

A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate was chased in South Dinajpur. He was allegedly manhandled by TMC workers even as a security person tried to protect him.

BJP candidate was chased by TMC workers 

Ink was smeared over BJP's lotus symbol on the EVM at a booth of Raghunathpur constituency. The ink hid the symbol, claimed Bishnupur MP Saumitra Khan. West Bengal Sector CRPF later said on X that the ink was cleared and voting was going on peacefully.

Ink smeared on BJP symbol on the EVM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses poll rally for second phase in West Bengal. He said, "The same voice is echoing from all sides... Everyone is saying, 'Paltano Dorkar' (change is necessary)... A storm of change is sweeping through Bengal... Exactly ten days later, when the votes are counted, I am confident that the lotus will bloom everywhere."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses poll rally for second phase in West Bengal

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections: Actor Vishal Krishna Reddy arrives at a polling booth in Anna Nagar, Chennai, to cast his vote in the ongoing Tamil Nadu assembly elections.&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;He says, &amp;quot;I will cast vote for the best candidate in my constituency.&amp;quot; &lt;a href="https://t.co/Oh1HI0fAYz"&gt;pic.twitter.com/Oh1HI0fAYz&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047257636807303619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 23, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Actor Vishal Krishna Reddy arrives at a polling booth in Anna Nagar, Chennai, to cast his vote 

A robot has been stationed at the polling booth set up at Government Higher Secondary School in Tamil Nadu's Vellore to welcome voters and attract public attention.&nbsp;&nbsp;&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | Tamil Nadu Elections 2026 | Vellore: A robot has been stationed at the polling booth set up at the Government Muslim Higher Secondary School to welcome voters and attract public attention. Dressed in traditional Tamil attire, the robot is greeting members of the public… &lt;a href="https://t.co/9nCWJjwFhd"&gt;pic.twitter.com/9nCWJjwFhd&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047241122918105220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 23, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Tamil Nadu Elections | Robots welcomes voters at Vellore polling booth

Bankura: Voting continues across 152 of the total 294 constituencies in the state in phase 1 of the polling today (Apr 23).&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | West Bengal Elections 2026 | Bankura: Voting continues across 152 of the total 294 constituencies in the state in phase 1 of the polling today. &lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Polling officials are closely verifying the voters&amp;#39; names in the voters&amp;#39; list. Voters who are wearing a burqa or hijab have… &lt;a href="https://t.co/JuFTBANZqe"&gt;pic.twitter.com/JuFTBANZqe&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047240460469723163?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 23, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;&nbsp;

West Bengal's Bankura votes across 152 of the total 294 constituencies in phase 1

BJP candidate from West Bengal's Asansol South Assembly constituency, Agnimitra Paul says, "As I sat in the car, someone broke the glass of the car with a big stone... This has been happening repeatedly. Who will commit such an incident in a minority area? TMC has very good relations with the minority.&nbsp;&nbsp;&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | West Bengal Elections 2026 | BJP candidate from Asansol South Assembly constituency, Agnimitra Paul says, &amp;quot;As I sat in the car, someone broke the glass of the car with a big stone... This has been happening repeatedly. Who will commit such an incident in a minority area?… &lt;a href="https://t.co/1BaYpVFvoz"&gt;https://t.co/1BaYpVFvoz&lt;/a&gt; &lt;a href="https://t.co/KDbzjh72TM"&gt;pic.twitter.com/KDbzjh72TM&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047241494852170137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 23, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

West Bengal Elections | 'Muslim brothers and sisters are also supporting the BJP now': Agnimitra Paul

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | West Bengal Elections 2026 | Paschim Medinipur | TMC candidate Pradeep Sarkar from the Kharagpur Sadar Assembly constituency cast his vote at a polling station at Milan Mandir Club &lt;a href="https://t.co/8PnRoPCOpC"&gt;pic.twitter.com/8PnRoPCOpC&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047221618410508303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 23, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

TMC candidate Pradeep Sarkar from the Kharagpur Sadar Assembly constituency cast his vote 

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | Tamil Nadu Elections 2026 | DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran, his son Karan and wife Priya Dayanidhi Maran arrived at a polling booth in Chennai to cast their vote. &lt;a href="https://t.co/GeHjC9rY6j"&gt;pic.twitter.com/GeHjC9rY6j&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2047210991126224949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;April 23, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran, his son Karan and wife Priya Dayanidhi Maran arrived at a polling booth in Chennai to cast their vote

Nationalist Congress Party (SCP) MLA Rohit Pawar on Thursday remembered his uncle and former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, late Ajit Pawar, amid bye-elections in the Baramati Assembly constituency. The Baramati seat fell vacant after Ajit Pawar passed away in a plane crash on January 28. His wife and Maharashtra Deputy CM, Sunetra Pawar, is contesting on an NCP ticket.

Rohit Pawar remembers uncle Ajit Pawar, casts vote for Baramati bypolls 

Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly and BJP candidate, Suvendu Adhikari, on Thursday inspected vulnerable polling booths in his constituency, Nandigram, amid the polling for State Assembly elections. Speaking to reporters, Adhikari claimed that he was not allowed to enter one of the polling booths. The BJP leader said, "I was not allowed to enter this polling booth. The common man wants peace. Jo shanti todega hum usko todne ka kaam karenge. (Whoever disturbs the peace, we will break them)."

BJP's Suvendu Adhikari inspects polling booths in Nandigram

Congress candidate from Berhampore Assembly constituency, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, speaks to an election official on the phone, urging the official to resolve the EVM malfunction at the polling booth

EVM malfunction at the polling booth in Berhampore: Cong leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury speaks to EC official

Voters at polling booth number 141 in Khowar school, Gorabazaar, complain of EVM malfunction amid voting in the first phase of West Bengal elections

EVM malfunction reported in another booth in West Bengal

West Bengal, Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 Live Updates: Voting is underway in TN and WB, for 234 and 152 seats respectively.

Will Mamata Banerjee secure a 4th term? Can M K Stalin make a comeback? What’s happening on the ground? Scroll down for live updates.

West Bengal, Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 Live Updates: Voting is underway in two of India’s most politically watched states, with Tamil Nadu and West Bengal going to the polls on Thursday in the 2026 Assembly elections. The day began with mock polling exercises at select booths, including a school in Chennai and another in Siliguri, to ensure that voting systems were functioning smoothly before the actual process kicked off. Polling opened at 7:00 am in both states and is scheduled to continue until 6:00 pm. Two states, different formats Tamil Nadu is voting in a single phase, meaning the entire state will decide its next government in one go. West Bengal, on the other hand, is holding elections in two phases, with the second round of voting set for April 29. Results for both states will be announced on May 4. Tamil Nadu: A contest with a twist In Tamil Nadu, the main fight is shaping up between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance and the NDA bloc led by AIADMK. The DMK alliance includes the Congress, DMDK and VCK, while the AIADMK is contesting alongside the BJP and PMK. But this time, there is an added layer. Actor Vijay, entering politics with his party TVK, is making his electoral debut. His entry could disrupt the traditional two-front contest and turn it into a three-way race, something the state has not seen in a while. West Bengal: High stakes lash West Bengal is heading into an intense contest. The ruling Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, is aiming for a fourth straight term. The BJP, which made significant gains in the last election by winning 77 seats, is pushing hard to convert that momentum into power. Beyond the big states Alongside these elections, bypolls are also being held in Gujarat’s Umreth and Maharashtra’s Baramati and Rahuri constituencies. The results for these will also be declared on May 4. Stay connected to WION for all the updates, analysis, and developments on the West Bengal and Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026

West Bengal, Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections Highlights: Voting is underway in TN and WB, for 234 and 152 seats respectively.Will Mamata Banerjee secure a 4th term? Can M K Stalin make a comeback? What’s happening on the ground? Scroll down for live updates.

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