The recording, which surfaced earlier this week, purportedly features senior leader and former Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda making scathing remarks about the leadership of state president B.Y. Vijayendra. In the clip, the voice—alleged to be Gowda’s—advocates for waiting until November to "kick him out" to avoid internal confusion. While Sadananda Gowda has categorically denied that the voice is his, the incident has exposed the simmering tension following recent Legislative Council cross-voting scandals.


Karnataka: State BJP divided over Vijayendra's leadership

Viral Audio Clip Hints at Fresh Infighting in Karnataka BJP

BJP President Nitin Nabin on Monday (June 29) lashed out at the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), commented on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's political career and shared his opinions about Gen Zs in the country. Nabin spoke at two separate events in Telangana and highlighted his party's vision for the future of the country and underlined the need for youth to join politics. Nabin addressed BJP's booth presidents in Telangana and interacted with students at the Viksit Bharat Student Conclave at Vignan Bharati Institute of Technology in Ghatkesar on the outskirts of Hyderabad.&nbsp;<h2>What Nitin Nabin said about CJP, and Rahul Gandhi?</h2>While speaking about CJP, without naming the party, he said that “virus and cockroach people" are a gang that wants to divide the country and break it into pieces. He claimed these parties were attempting to weaken the nation and urged party workers to remain vigilant. “Parties like virus and cockroach are coming into the country. These are people who want to make the country hollow. There is a need to pay attention to these virus and cockroach people. The gang wants to divide the country," Nabin said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/make-cow-rashtra-mata-sp-leader-writes-to-pm-modi-with-his-blood-video-1782754610388">'Make cow Rashtra Mata': SP leader writes to PM Modi</a> While addressing the students, the BJP President said that the country's Gen Z are not anti-establishment but want to contribute to its growth. Contrasting Indian GenZs with those in the neighbouring countries, he said that unlike other nations, Indian Gen Zs are working for building the nation. not anti-establishment. India's youth works for building the country," he was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. He added that “real” Gen Z are some sportspeople and start-up founders in the audience who were building their own and the country's future. Using the term ‘tukde tukde’, first used by his party for JNU students in 2016, he said that those protesting alongside CJP can't be India's Gen Z as they challenge the country's soul and constitution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncert-emergency-chapter-draws-political-fire-as-congress-and-bjp-trade-barbs-attempt-to-divert-india-s-history-1782444368216">NCERT Emergency chapter draws political fire as Congress and BJP trade barbs: 'Attempt to divert India's history'</a>&nbsp;Commenting on Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, he called the latter a “part-time politician.”He also slammed the Congress for &nbsp;“not respecting” former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, who belongs from the region. In the same breath, he reminded that it was Prime Minister Narendra Modi under whose government Rao was conferred with Bharat Ratna. He also exuded confidence that the BJP will form “double-engine government” in Telangana in next assembly polls and recalled how several BJP leaders, including Sushma Swaraj, fought hard for the formation of the state.&nbsp;

BJP President Nitin Nabin launched a sharp attack on the Abhijeet Dipke-led Cockroach Janta Party during his Telangana visit, alleging it was part of a "virus and cockroach" gang seeking to divide and weaken the country. He urged BJP workers to stay vigilant against such "divisive forces."

BJP President Nitin Nabin on Monday (June 29) lashed out at the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), commented on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's political career and shared his opinions about Gen Zs in the country. Nabin spoke at two separate events in Telangana and highlighted his party's vision for the future of the country and underlined the need for youth to join politics. Nabin addressed BJP's booth presidents in Telangana and interacted with students at the Viksit Bharat Student Conclave at Vignan Bharati Institute of Technology in Ghatkesar on the outskirts of Hyderabad. What Nitin Nabin said about CJP, and Rahul Gandhi? While speaking about CJP, without naming the party, he said that “virus and cockroach people" are a gang that wants to divide the country and break it into pieces. He claimed these parties were attempting to weaken the nation and urged party workers to remain vigilant. “Parties like virus and cockroach are coming into the country. These are people who want to make the country hollow. There is a need to pay attention to these virus and cockroach people. The gang wants to divide the country," Nabin said. Also Read: 'Make cow Rashtra Mata': SP leader writes to PM Modi While addressing the students, the BJP President said that the country's Gen Z are not anti-establishment but want to contribute to its growth. Contrasting Indian GenZs with those in the neighbouring countries, he said that unlike other nations, Indian Gen Zs are working for building the nation. not anti-establishment. India's youth works for building the country," he was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. He added that “real” Gen Z are some sportspeople and start-up founders in the audience who were building their own and the country's future. Using the term ‘tukde tukde’, first used by his party for JNU students in 2016, he said that those protesting alongside CJP can't be India's Gen Z as they challenge the country's soul and constitution. Also Read: NCERT Emergency chapter draws political fire as Congress and BJP trade barbs: 'Attempt to divert India's history' Commenting on Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, he called the latter a “part-time politician.”He also slammed the Congress for “not respecting” former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, who belongs from the region. In the same breath, he reminded that it was Prime Minister Narendra Modi under whose government Rao was conferred with Bharat Ratna. He also exuded confidence that the BJP will form “double-engine government” in Telangana in next assembly polls and recalled how several BJP leaders, including Sushma Swaraj, fought hard for the formation of the state.

BJP President Nitin Nabin launched a sharp attack on the Abhijeet Dipke-led Cockroach Janta Party during his Telangana visit, alleging it was part of a "virus and cockroach" gang seeking to divide and weaken the country. He urged BJP workers to stay vigilant against such "divisive forces."

'Cockroach and virus gang...': BJP chief Nitin Nabin makes big remark on India GenZs, calls Rahul Gandhi 'part-time politician'

The BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) has shifted into full campaign mode in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, with a major organisational reshuffle underway. The move is aimed at strengthening ground-level leadership, improving coordination, and sharpening election strategy across the state.


BJP in Campaign Mode in UP Ahead of Assembly Polls

The Uttar Pradesh BJP has launched a major internal organisational reshuffle as the party prepares for the upcoming Assembly elections. The move is seen as a strategic effort to strengthen its grassroots machinery, streamline leadership roles, and boost electoral performance in India’s most politically crucial state.

UP BJP Undertakes Major Organisational Restructure Ahead Of Assembly Polls 

Dharashiv MP Omraje Nimbalkar ponders emotionally over his decision to defect from Udhhav Thakrey-led Shiv Sena faction to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, following the acquittal of Padamsinh Patil of the BJP/NCP alliance in the murder case of his father, Pawanraje Nimbalkar. Nimbalkar reportedly joined politics to serve justice for the murder of his father. His decision also decides the fate of five other MPs who are also gunning for defection from Shiv Sena (UBT), in Maharashtra, as part of the new political manoeuvring termed by the mainstream media as “Operation Tiger”. If Nimbalkar pulls back, they fall short of the two-thirds threshold, which would legally expose the remaining 5 MPs to total disqualification. Operation Tiger is a fresh development in the wave of defections that have set off across India since April 17, 2025.<h2>How a failed vote in April is reshaping India's parliament</h2>On April 17, the Narendra Modi government suffered its first-ever constitutional amendment defeat in 12 years in power. The government sought to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha to 850 seats to "operationalise" women's reservation, but failed to clear a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha. It also sought to remove the constitutional requirement that delimitation be based on the first census after 2026, instead granting Parliament the authority to determine which census would be used for future delimitation exercises. The bill was perceived by many as a threat to the representation of southern, northeastern, and smaller states that had managed their population growth better. The bill was defeated in the Lok Sabha; out of the 528 members participating, the government needed 352 votes. It secured only 298, a shortfall of 54.&nbsp;Then came a major sweep of defection, one after another, in many political parties, first the Aam Aadmi Party, then TMC, now Shiv Sena (UBT). Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann called the defecting MPs “gaddars”. He called Rahav Chadda a tool who lured 7 MPs to the BJP. &nbsp;In West Bengal, there is a portmanteau that's widely popular and used among party workers. Its called Bejimool, which combines the names of two rival political parties, the BJP and TMC, to imply that these are two sides of the same coin. Within months of the BJP's victory in the West Bengal assembly election, TMC crumbled from within. Even so-called progressive leaders like Saayoni Ghosh, who voraciously attacked Raghav Chadda, decided to rebel. The rebel group was led by four-time TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar. Since the number of MPs in the rebel camp exceeded two-thirds of TMC's strength of 28 Lok Sabha MPs, the provisions of the anti-defection law would not apply. In the Rajya Sabha, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, Sushmita Dev, and Prakash Chik Baraik resigned from both the Upper House and the party within days of each other.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-pauses-final-peace-talks-us-ceasefire-mou-switzerland-1782044765170">Tehran says talks in Switzerland to focus on the fulfilment of first MoU clause</a><h2>How close is the NDA to the magic number?</h2>In the Rajya Sabha, the BJP by itself has 114 seats. With the rapid sequence of structural changes, by-elections, and mergers over the last two months, specifically the major 7-MP merger of former AAP members, and the recent Rajya Sabha polls where NDA swept with 19 out of 26 seats. The NDA now holds 150 seats, its highest number ever and three more former TMC MPs are to join in. The two-thirds threshold sits at 163 seats. It is just 10 short.While the Lok Sabha journey looks steeper, following the 2024 general elections, the NDA sat at a modest 293 seats. Even with 20 TMC defectors, the tally rises to only around 313, still 49 short. With rebel Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs it can further shoot its numbers to 319. Now there are rumours of a mass structural rearrangement within the Samajwadi Party. UP Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya claimed that up to 25 to 30 of its Lok Sabha MPs are allegedly preparing to break away and support the NDA. There are also reports of bridging this gap through issue-based support or abstentions from the 22 MPs of DMK, which recently severed ties with the Congress, in Tamil Nadu, following defeat to Joseph Vijay's TVK.&nbsp;Opposition parties have long called it "Operation Lotus": the systematic dismantling of rival parties through inducements, pressure from central agencies, and carefully engineered defections. Now, whether the government reaches that threshold before the 2029 elections remains the defining political question of the moment, which might decide the fate of the electoral politics of the country.

Operation Tiger has emerged as the latest chapter in India's defection politics following the government's defeat on a constitutional amendment bill. The political manoeuvring across Shiv Sena (UBT), TMC and AAP could reshape parliamentary numbers ahead of 2029.

Dharashiv MP Omraje Nimbalkar ponders emotionally over his decision to defect from Udhhav Thakrey-led Shiv Sena faction to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, following the acquittal of Padamsinh Patil of the BJP/NCP alliance in the murder case of his father, Pawanraje Nimbalkar. Nimbalkar reportedly joined politics to serve justice for the murder of his father. His decision also decides the fate of five other MPs who are also gunning for defection from Shiv Sena (UBT), in Maharashtra, as part of the new political manoeuvring termed by the mainstream media as “Operation Tiger”. If Nimbalkar pulls back, they fall short of the two-thirds threshold, which would legally expose the remaining 5 MPs to total disqualification. Operation Tiger is a fresh development in the wave of defections that have set off across India since April 17, 2025. How a failed vote in April is reshaping India's parliament On April 17, the Narendra Modi government suffered its first-ever constitutional amendment defeat in 12 years in power. The government sought to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha to 850 seats to "operationalise" women's reservation, but failed to clear a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha. It also sought to remove the constitutional requirement that delimitation be based on the first census after 2026, instead granting Parliament the authority to determine which census would be used for future delimitation exercises. The bill was perceived by many as a threat to the representation of southern, northeastern, and smaller states that had managed their population growth better. The bill was defeated in the Lok Sabha; out of the 528 members participating, the government needed 352 votes. It secured only 298, a shortfall of 54. Then came a major sweep of defection, one after another, in many political parties, first the Aam Aadmi Party, then TMC, now Shiv Sena (UBT). Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann called the defecting MPs “gaddars”. He called Rahav Chadda a tool who lured 7 MPs to the BJP. In West Bengal, there is a portmanteau that's widely popular and used among party workers. Its called Bejimool, which combines the names of two rival political parties, the BJP and TMC, to imply that these are two sides of the same coin. Within months of the BJP's victory in the West Bengal assembly election, TMC crumbled from within. Even so-called progressive leaders like Saayoni Ghosh, who voraciously attacked Raghav Chadda, decided to rebel. The rebel group was led by four-time TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar. Since the number of MPs in the rebel camp exceeded two-thirds of TMC's strength of 28 Lok Sabha MPs, the provisions of the anti-defection law would not apply. In the Rajya Sabha, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, Sushmita Dev, and Prakash Chik Baraik resigned from both the Upper House and the party within days of each other. Also Read: Tehran says talks in Switzerland to focus on the fulfilment of first MoU clause How close is the NDA to the magic number? In the Rajya Sabha, the BJP by itself has 114 seats. With the rapid sequence of structural changes, by-elections, and mergers over the last two months, specifically the major 7-MP merger of former AAP members, and the recent Rajya Sabha polls where NDA swept with 19 out of 26 seats. The NDA now holds 150 seats, its highest number ever and three more former TMC MPs are to join in. The two-thirds threshold sits at 163 seats. It is just 10 short. While the Lok Sabha journey looks steeper, following the 2024 general elections, the NDA sat at a modest 293 seats. Even with 20 TMC defectors, the tally rises to only around 313, still 49 short. With rebel Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs it can further shoot its numbers to 319. Now there are rumours of a mass structural rearrangement within the Samajwadi Party. UP Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya claimed that up to 25 to 30 of its Lok Sabha MPs are allegedly preparing to break away and support the NDA. There are also reports of bridging this gap through issue-based support or abstentions from the 22 MPs of DMK, which recently severed ties with the Congress, in Tamil Nadu, following defeat to Joseph Vijay's TVK. Opposition parties have long called it "Operation Lotus": the systematic dismantling of rival parties through inducements, pressure from central agencies, and carefully engineered defections. Now, whether the government reaches that threshold before the 2029 elections remains the defining political question of the moment, which might decide the fate of the electoral politics of the country.

Operation Tiger has emerged as the latest chapter in India's defection politics following the government's defeat on a constitutional amendment bill. The political manoeuvring across Shiv Sena (UBT), TMC and AAP could reshape parliamentary numbers ahead of 2029.

From Shiv Sena to TMC: How close is NDA to the magic number

In a major political development, around 20 rebel Trinamool Congress MPs have reportedly extended their support to the BJP-led NDA alliance, marking a significant setback for the party. The group, which had been in talks over forming a separate bloc, instead decided to merge with another political outfit before aligning with the NDA. The move follows meetings in Delhi and discussions with senior leaders, further deepening the internal crisis within the Trinamool Congress.


West Bengal Politics: 20 Rebel MPs From Trinamool Congress Declare Support for BJP-Led NDA

A dramatic political development has emerged in West Bengal, with reports suggesting that 20 Trinamool Congress MPs have written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking to join the ruling NDA. The move could reshape political equations in both West Bengal and New Delhi. This episode analyzes the potential fallout and what it means for India's political landscape.

Mamata In Touble? 20 TMC MPs Seeking To Join Ruling NDA 

20 TMC MPs Write Letter To Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Seeking To Join Ruling NDA

27 seats of Rajya Sabha are set to go to the polls on June 18. While BJP has announced a list of 11 candidates, Union Ministers Ravneet Bittu and George Kurian have not been renominated by the party. Meanwhile, Congress has declared 7 candidates including its president Mallikarjun Kharge who filed his nomination. 


India Rajya Sabha Seats Elections: Decoding How BJP & Congress Stand to Gain

Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai on Tuesday met BJP national president Nitin Nabin and the party's national general secretary (organisation), BL Santhosh, in New Delhi and submitted a five-page resignation letter.
The meetings come amid intense speculation over Annamalai's political future.

Tamil Nadu Leader Quits BJP, Floats a New Political Movement

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday released its official list of 11 candidates for the upcoming Biennial and Bye-elections to the Rajya Sabha from various states. The Central Election Committee (CEC) of the party finalised the names of representatives across key states to contest the Upper House polls. The list features several prominent state leaders, organisational heavyweights, and key strategists as the party looks to consolidate its upper-house strength. The BJP has fielded Tai Tagak from Arunachal Pradesh; Rajubhai Shukla, Mukeshbhai Rathwa, Mansingh Parmar and Jitendra Meghjibhai Kanzariya from Gujarat; Tarun Chugh and Rajneesh Agrawal from Madhya Pradesh; A Sharda Devi from Manipur; and Alka Gurjar and Satish Poonia from Rajasthan. For the Rajya Sabha by-election in Odisha, the party has nominated Debashish Samantaray as its candidate. Earlier, on June 3, the Election Commission issued a notification for biennial elections to 24 Rajya Sabha seats from ten states. This includes four seats each in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat, three seats each in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, two seats in Jharkhand, and one seat each in Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Manipur and Meghalaya. The filing of nominations has begun, and the last date is June 8. Notification was also issued for the Rajya Sabha bypoll for a seat each in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Odisha.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The list features several prominent state leaders, organisational heavyweights, and key strategists as the party looks to consolidate its upper-house strength.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday released its official list of 11 candidates for the upcoming Biennial and Bye-elections to the Rajya Sabha from various states. The Central Election Committee (CEC) of the party finalised the names of representatives across key states to contest the Upper House polls. The list features several prominent state leaders, organisational heavyweights, and key strategists as the party looks to consolidate its upper-house strength. The BJP has fielded Tai Tagak from Arunachal Pradesh; Rajubhai Shukla, Mukeshbhai Rathwa, Mansingh Parmar and Jitendra Meghjibhai Kanzariya from Gujarat; Tarun Chugh and Rajneesh Agrawal from Madhya Pradesh; A Sharda Devi from Manipur; and Alka Gurjar and Satish Poonia from Rajasthan. For the Rajya Sabha by-election in Odisha, the party has nominated Debashish Samantaray as its candidate. Earlier, on June 3, the Election Commission issued a notification for biennial elections to 24 Rajya Sabha seats from ten states. This includes four seats each in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat, three seats each in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, two seats in Jharkhand, and one seat each in Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Manipur and Meghalaya. The filing of nominations has begun, and the last date is June 8. Notification was also issued for the Rajya Sabha bypoll for a seat each in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Odisha. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The list features several prominent state leaders, organisational heavyweights, and key strategists as the party looks to consolidate its upper-house strength.

BJP releases official list of candidates for Rajya Sabha polls

After K Annamalai, the BJP’s prominent face in Tamil Nadu and its former state chief, submitted his resignation to current party chief Nitin Nabin on Tuesday, the party High Command has asked to take a call on his proposed resignation. Along with Nitin Nabin, he also met party national general secretary (organisation) B L Santhosh and Union Home Minister Amit Shah separately. During his meetings with top BJP leaders, Annamalai made it clear that he wants to resign from the party on good terms, though he remains open to collaborating with the party down the line if required. In a surprising turn, party insiders revealed that he was actually intercepted on his way to the Delhi airport and called back for last-minute talks, according to several media reports. Meanwhile, the BJP leadership is currently pushing him to reconsider his resignation from the party's primary membership. If they manage to convince him to stay, it would be a surprising shift for the BJP, which is traditionally known for its uncompromising stance on organisational discipline.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/another-tmc-leader-faces-egg-attack-thief-slogans-fourth-such-incident-in-less-than-a-month-1780462471298">Another TMC leader faces egg attack, 'thief' slogans: Fourth such incident in less than a month- VIDEO</a><h3>Is Annamalai launching a new political party?</h3>This comes on the heels of reports that Annamalai had already checked out mentally and viewed this Delhi trip simply as a farewell gesture to thank the high command. He had reportedly given the top brass an ultimatum: either reinstate him as the Tamil Nadu chief with a guaranteed, autonomous seven-year term, or let him walk away to carve out a new political path. Annamalai is considering launching a new political party in Tamil Nadu, as he believes there is little scope for a national party in the state’s political landscape. Therefore, a new party in the state which focuses on addressing the concerns of various sections has the potential to grow as an alternative force in the state. However, Annamalai is not willing to end his association with the BJP on a bitter note, as he preferred to have a “healthy political rivalry with it marked with respect”.

Tamil Nadu BJP leader K. Annamalai submitted his resignation to party chief Nitin Nabin but was recalled for talks with the top brass. Seeking a 7-year term as autonomous state chief, he is considering launching a new local party while maintaining a friendly relationship with the BJP.

After K Annamalai, the BJP’s prominent face in Tamil Nadu and its former state chief, submitted his resignation to current party chief Nitin Nabin on Tuesday, the party High Command has asked to take a call on his proposed resignation. Along with Nitin Nabin, he also met party national general secretary (organisation) B L Santhosh and Union Home Minister Amit Shah separately. During his meetings with top BJP leaders, Annamalai made it clear that he wants to resign from the party on good terms, though he remains open to collaborating with the party down the line if required. In a surprising turn, party insiders revealed that he was actually intercepted on his way to the Delhi airport and called back for last-minute talks, according to several media reports. Meanwhile, the BJP leadership is currently pushing him to reconsider his resignation from the party's primary membership. If they manage to convince him to stay, it would be a surprising shift for the BJP, which is traditionally known for its uncompromising stance on organisational discipline. Also read: Another TMC leader faces egg attack, 'thief' slogans: Fourth such incident in less than a month- VIDEO Is Annamalai launching a new political party? This comes on the heels of reports that Annamalai had already checked out mentally and viewed this Delhi trip simply as a farewell gesture to thank the high command. He had reportedly given the top brass an ultimatum: either reinstate him as the Tamil Nadu chief with a guaranteed, autonomous seven-year term, or let him walk away to carve out a new political path. Annamalai is considering launching a new political party in Tamil Nadu, as he believes there is little scope for a national party in the state’s political landscape. Therefore, a new party in the state which focuses on addressing the concerns of various sections has the potential to grow as an alternative force in the state. However, Annamalai is not willing to end his association with the BJP on a bitter note, as he preferred to have a “healthy political rivalry with it marked with respect”.

Tamil Nadu BJP leader K. Annamalai submitted his resignation to party chief Nitin Nabin but was recalled for talks with the top brass. Seeking a 7-year term as autonomous state chief, he is considering launching a new local party while maintaining a friendly relationship with the BJP.

BJP top leaders persuade Annamalai to put resignation on hold, plan next political move

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has led a major protest in Kolkata over alleged post-poll attacks, as tensions between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP continue to rise. The political showdown comes amid fresh accusations and counter-claims following recent electoral developments in the state.

Mamata Banerjee Leads Kolkata Dharna As BJP-TMC Tensions Escalat

Is K Annamalai Launching A New Political Party? Reports Spark Speculation

Mamata Banerjee led a major protest in Kolkata against alleged post-poll violence, accusing the BJP of political attacks and restrictions, while vowing to “fight or die” in defence of TMC workers.


West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee Leads Kolkata Dharna Over 'Post-Poll Attacks'

CHENNAI: Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai on Tuesday met BJP national president Nitin Nabin and the party's national general secretary (organisation), BL Santhosh, in New Delhi and submitted a five-page resignation letter.
The meetings come amid intense speculation over Annamalai's political future.

Ex BJP President of Tamil Nadu K Annamalai To Start New Political Party?

Nepal’s Rashtriya Swatantra Party (RSP) chairman Rabi Lamichhane met BJP national president Nitin Nabin here on Tuesday.
The delegation of Nepal’s ruling party, comprising its senior leaders, was accorded a grand welcome at the BJP headquarters on their arrival.

BJP Chief Nitin Nabin Welcomes Nepal’s Rashtriya Swatantra Party Chief  Rabi Lamichhane

Nepal’s Rabi Lamichhane has arrived in Delhi and met BJP’s national president during a politically sensitive visit that is drawing attention across the region. The meeting comes at a time of heightened discussions around Nepal–India border issues and evolving diplomatic dynamics. 


India-Nepal Ties: Rabi Lamichhane Meets BJP Chief in Delhi Amid Border Tensions

Speculation is growing in Tamil Nadu political circles over whether K. Annamalai could launch a new political party.
The rumours intensified after recent comments and internal discussions within the Tamil Nadu BJP sparked debate online.

K. Annamalai Likely To Quit BJP And Launch New Party, Big Political Speculation 

West Bengal is set to witness a major political development as 35 new ministers are scheduled to take oath in a significant cabinet expansion. Governor RN Ravi will administer the oath of office, marking one of the largest reshuffles in the state's recent political history. The expansion is expected to strengthen governance, accommodate new faces and rebalance key portfolios within the government. 


West Bengal Govt Set for Mega Cabinet Expansion, 35 Ministers to Take Oath

Political tensions in West Bengal have intensified after TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee alleged that he was attacked and mobbed during a visit to Hooghly. The claim comes shortly after a separate controversy involving another senior TMC leader, adding to the growing war of words between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP. Banerjee alleged that individuals wearing saffron attire were involved in the incident, while political blame games continue to dominate the state's charged atmosphere.


West Bengal Politics: TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee Alleges Attack by BJP Workers

TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee claimed he suffered head injuries after being mobbed in front of a police station he visited in West Bengal's Hooghly district on Sunday to submit a memorandum against the arrest of party workers after the Assembly elections.


TMC MP Kalyan Mobbed; Claims Attacked by BJP Goons With Saffron Clothes

TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee claimed he suffered head injuries after being mobbed in front of a police station he visited in West Bengal's Hooghly district on Sunday to submit a memorandum against the arrest of party workers after the Assembly elections.

He alleged that BJP supporters were responsible for the attack on him.


TMC MP Kalyan Mobbed: Attack Comes a Day After Eggs, Stones Thrown at Fellow MM Abhishek Banerjee

On May 15, 2026, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, presiding over a Supreme Court bench, described unemployed young Indians as ‘like cockroaches’ who, failing to find jobs, turn to social media, journalism, and RTI activism to ‘attack the system.’ He called such individuals ‘parasites of society.’ These were not words spoken by a politician at an election rally or by a television anchor in prime-time fury. They were spoken, on the record, by the occupant of the highest judicial office in the Republic of India, the officer constitutionally charged with being the final guardian of every citizen’s dignity.

Petitions Against Cockroach Janta Party: 'Don't Be Sentimental,' Says CJI 

A bizarre new political satire movement nicknamed the “Cockroach Party” is rapidly gaining traction across India’s social media landscape. Inspired by the insect’s image of survival and resilience, the online collective has attracted millions of followers within days and reportedly overtaken the BJP in Instagram engagement. The trend exploded after controversial remarks allegedly made by Chief Justice Surya Kant comparing unemployed youth in journalism and activism to “cockroaches” and “parasites,” triggering a wave of memes, protests and political satire online.


'Cockroach' Janta Party Overtakes BJP in Number of Followers on Instagram

In a major political development in West Bengal, Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has inducted five MLAs into the Bengal cabinet, marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape. The move is expected to intensify power dynamics ahead of key political battles, sparking reactions across party lines and reshaping alliances within the state.


West Bengal Elections: Adhikari Inducts 5 MLA's Into Bengal Cabinet

Suvendu Adhikari has officially become the ninth Chief Minister of West Bengal, marking a major political turning point in the state’s history. The swearing-in ceremony drew significant public and political attention as the new administration formally took charge. The development signals the beginning of a new political chapter in West Bengal, with expectations high over the government’s upcoming priorities and governance agenda.


West Bengal: Suvendu Adhikari Takes Oath As New Chief Minister

Breaking: Suvendu Adhikari Becomes West Bengal's Ninth Chief Minister 

Now that the BJP has registered a landslide victory in the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026, all eyes are on who the party will choose as the Chief Minister of the state. Amid incumbent CM Mamata Banerjee’s refusal to resign, post-poll violence and the Bengal governor dissolving the assembly, the BJP has announced that the new government will take oath on May 9. While several names from the BJP have cropped up as probable CM, the party has so far not confirmed any name.<h2>Who will be the next CM of West Bengal?</h2>&nbsp;Suvendhu Adhikari, the man who brought the BJP into focus in Bengal in the last few years, is one of the top contenders for the post. Suvendu, a former TMC leader who made his move to the BJP in 2020, defeated Mamata in her home turf, the Bhowanipore constituency, this election, making him one of the obvious choices for the CM’s post. There are other contenders, too. Fashion designer turned politician Agnimitra Paul could be the new woman CM of Bengal after Mamata. Former journalist Swapan Dasgupta and BJP Bengal President and veteran party leader Shamik Bhattacharya are also reportedly in the running.&nbsp;So what does the junta think? WION spoke to people in Kolkata to understand the pulse of the city that has voted out TMC after a 15-year-long reign.&nbsp;<h2>Suvendhu Adhikari is the obvious choice</h2>For most Bengalis, Adhikari is the man who worked hard to bring the BJP into the forefront in the last few years. “He has worked hard, so the obvious choice for the next CM is him,” said Projnaparamita Chatterjee, a history professor at Calcutta University.“Suvendu, it will be 99%. Defeated Mamata in 2 successive elections, that too from Bhowanipore this time round,” said Anindya Sen, a private sector employee. “He has the strongest claim and even has the support of the BJP MLAs,” said Anjan Sen, a retired person.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-the-first-time-chandranath-rath-is-not-the-only-suvendu-adhikari-aide-to-die-under-mysterious-circumstances-all-details-here-pradip-jha-1778139182978">Before Chandranath Rath, 3 Suvendu aides died mysteriously. Pattern or chance?</a>&nbsp;Most feel Adhikari has fought a lone battle for the party in the state. “You need a rough and tough guy, and Adhikari seems like a man who can connect with the masses,” said Rajat Chakravarty, a retired bank officer, adding that Adhikari “has contributed to the rise of the BJP in Bengal.”&nbsp;However, Chakravarty also pointed out that Adhikari’s background in TMC could also be seen as a negative point. After all, the basics of his political knowledge belong to the TMC school of thought.<h2>The urban CM</h2>Agnimitra Paul, fashion designer turned politician, is also in the running for the CM’s post. Paul has served as the Vice President of Bengal BJP. She is also instrumental in mobilising women voters, especially in Asansol Dakshin, where she won with a margin of 4000 votes, beating the TMC candidate of the area. “Paul can be seen as a replacement of a woman Chief Minister,” said a Kolkata-based lawyer who wished to be not named. “She is well educated and a very urban face, so if the BJP is looking at a woman candidate, she may be the right choice.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-agnimitra-paul-from-aspiring-doctor-to-fashion-designer-to-cm-probable-1778089930728">The fascinating journey of Agnimitra Paul- From aspiring doctor to fashion designer to CM probable</a>&nbsp;The lawyer also stated that “The party might be considering Swapan Dasgupta, owing to his educational background and career in journalism, but he has not connected with the grassroots.” Dasgupta should be considered for the Speaker’s post, Chakravarty pointed out, stating that he is well spoken and articulate.<h2>BJP veteran</h2>Some would want Samik Bhattacharya to become CM. Bhattacharya did not contest elections this year but is a Rajya Sabha MP and is also the president of the BJP in Bengal. Many feel he is a more balanced face for the BJP, unlike Adhikari’s divisive politics. Bhattacharya is a BJP veteran and can be the face of change in Bengal. Then, some suggest Roopa Ganguly’s name, the former actress, has also been part of the BJP for decades and might just be given a top post in the new government.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/longest-serving-chief-ministers-west-bengal-legacy-jyoti-basu-mamata-banerjee-1777441883127">West Bengal election result: Longest-serving Chief Ministers in state's history</a><h2>Expect the unexpected</h2>Asok Sen, a retired bank official, points at the BJP’s past trend of springing a surprise. Sen states that while Adhikari is the obvious choice, the BJP might just bring in an underdog or an unknown face to take up the post. “If the decision is based on caste, then the BJP might spring a surprise on the public with an unknown person,” pointed Sen.&nbsp;The name of the next CM is expected within hours. Whether Adhikari’s efforts translate into the leadership role remains the big question, but the broader takeaway is a state's demand for change. High stakes and even higher expectations await the new head of government.

As the final decision for the West Bengal Chief Minister’s chair approaches, the buzz across the city suggests that the choice isn't just about a name, but about the vision for the future. WION spoke to people of Kolkata to understand who they want as Bengal's new CM. 

Now that the BJP has registered a landslide victory in the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026, all eyes are on who the party will choose as the Chief Minister of the state. Amid incumbent CM Mamata Banerjee’s refusal to resign, post-poll violence and the Bengal governor dissolving the assembly, the BJP has announced that the new government will take oath on May 9. While several names from the BJP have cropped up as probable CM, the party has so far not confirmed any name. Who will be the next CM of West Bengal? Suvendhu Adhikari, the man who brought the BJP into focus in Bengal in the last few years, is one of the top contenders for the post. Suvendu, a former TMC leader who made his move to the BJP in 2020, defeated Mamata in her home turf, the Bhowanipore constituency, this election, making him one of the obvious choices for the CM’s post. There are other contenders, too. Fashion designer turned politician Agnimitra Paul could be the new woman CM of Bengal after Mamata. Former journalist Swapan Dasgupta and BJP Bengal President and veteran party leader Shamik Bhattacharya are also reportedly in the running. So what does the junta think? WION spoke to people in Kolkata to understand the pulse of the city that has voted out TMC after a 15-year-long reign. Suvendhu Adhikari is the obvious choice For most Bengalis, Adhikari is the man who worked hard to bring the BJP into the forefront in the last few years. “He has worked hard, so the obvious choice for the next CM is him,” said Projnaparamita Chatterjee, a history professor at Calcutta University. “Suvendu, it will be 99%. Defeated Mamata in 2 successive elections, that too from Bhowanipore this time round,” said Anindya Sen, a private sector employee. “He has the strongest claim and even has the support of the BJP MLAs,” said Anjan Sen, a retired person. Also read: Before Chandranath Rath, 3 Suvendu aides died mysteriously. Pattern or chance? Most feel Adhikari has fought a lone battle for the party in the state. “You need a rough and tough guy, and Adhikari seems like a man who can connect with the masses,” said Rajat Chakravarty, a retired bank officer, adding that Adhikari “has contributed to the rise of the BJP in Bengal.” However, Chakravarty also pointed out that Adhikari’s background in TMC could also be seen as a negative point. After all, the basics of his political knowledge belong to the TMC school of thought. The urban CM Agnimitra Paul, fashion designer turned politician, is also in the running for the CM’s post. Paul has served as the Vice President of Bengal BJP. She is also instrumental in mobilising women voters, especially in Asansol Dakshin, where she won with a margin of 4000 votes, beating the TMC candidate of the area. “Paul can be seen as a replacement of a woman Chief Minister,” said a Kolkata-based lawyer who wished to be not named. “She is well educated and a very urban face, so if the BJP is looking at a woman candidate, she may be the right choice.” Also read: The fascinating journey of Agnimitra Paul- From aspiring doctor to fashion designer to CM probable The lawyer also stated that “The party might be considering Swapan Dasgupta, owing to his educational background and career in journalism, but he has not connected with the grassroots.” Dasgupta should be considered for the Speaker’s post, Chakravarty pointed out, stating that he is well spoken and articulate. BJP veteran Some would want Samik Bhattacharya to become CM. Bhattacharya did not contest elections this year but is a Rajya Sabha MP and is also the president of the BJP in Bengal. Many feel he is a more balanced face for the BJP, unlike Adhikari’s divisive politics. Bhattacharya is a BJP veteran and can be the face of change in Bengal. Then, some suggest Roopa Ganguly’s name, the former actress, has also been part of the BJP for decades and might just be given a top post in the new government. Also read: West Bengal election result: Longest-serving Chief Ministers in state's history Expect the unexpected Asok Sen, a retired bank official, points at the BJP’s past trend of springing a surprise. Sen states that while Adhikari is the obvious choice, the BJP might just bring in an underdog or an unknown face to take up the post. “If the decision is based on caste, then the BJP might spring a surprise on the public with an unknown person,” pointed Sen. The name of the next CM is expected within hours. Whether Adhikari’s efforts translate into the leadership role remains the big question, but the broader takeaway is a state's demand for change. High stakes and even higher expectations await the new head of government.

As the final decision for the West Bengal Chief Minister’s chair approaches, the buzz across the city suggests that the choice isn't just about a name, but about the vision for the future. WION spoke to people of Kolkata to understand who they want as Bengal's new CM.&nbsp;

Suvendu Adhikari, Agnimitra Paul, Shamik Bhattacharya: Who Kolkata is rooting for as the next CM of Bengal | Exclusive

The BJP is expected to announce West Bengal’s new Chief Minister today ahead of the party’s first-ever government formation in the state.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has arrived in Kolkata to chair a key BJP legislative party meeting to finalise the CM face.

West Bengal Elections: BJP Likely To Announce New Bengal CM Today

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