The Election Commission of India's public unity have been put into question by an investigation by the Indian Express, which shows that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi formally objected 14 times over a period of ten months, four times on a single day, to decisions and processes under CEC Gyanesh Kumar specifically tied to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The exercise has affected roughly 13 crore voters across India.The ECI has attempted to shrug off the controversy, stating that differing opinions among Election Commission members are “a normal part” of the decision-making, while opposition parties have voiced their concern and demanded impeachment of the Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-kyiv-strikes-zelensky-trump-ufa-refinery-1790159202626">Ukraine hits Ufa oil refinery as Russia strikes Kyiv after Zelensky-Trump talks</a><h2>Centralisation of Electoral Roll</h2>According to the Express Investigation, Election Commissioner Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi were kept in the dark about the decisions of ECI; the two commissioners even wrote to the Cabinet Secretary complaining about the change of work allocation that resulted in reduced oversight of the IT backbone of the electoral rolls. In fact, that was the key point of dispute: centralisation of the voter database. The two commissioners flagged that the Electoral Registration Officer, the statutory authority of each constituency's electoral roll, did not have "proper and complete access" to the database in ECINet. In May 2025, Joshi sought an audit by outside IIT experts to certify that “no one, except the concerned statutory authorities, has credentials to make any change in the (voter) database.”&nbsp;It questioned the only explanation given by the Election Commission for years to deny any allegation of electoral manipulation: that the electoral rolls were decentralised. The investigation claimed that the Election Commission's Director General of IT, Seema Khanna, had “no legal authority to restrict proper and complete access and freedom to operate,” the ECInet to the EROs. These discrepancies had led to the overriding of EROs and the blocking of eligible voters. By April 16, Sandhu was recording concerns that the IT division was developing new modules and portals without bringing them to his knowledge, saying he'd learned of some developments through the media rather than a proper briefing.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-dominates-unga-81-guterres-lula-erdogan-israel-war-1790096337223">World leaders repeatedly call Gaza crisis ‘genocide’ as Israel’s war dominates opening sessions of UNGA</a><h2>Form 6 dispute</h2>Alongside the IT dispute, another slugfest broke out over the alteration of Form 6 – statutory in nature – which included new questions about first-time voters' parents and grandparents appearing on the “electoral roll of last SIR.” &nbsp;The Form 6 was linked to the forms of the SIR exercise, which are non-statutory and “a one-time measure and exception”. The portal was coded so that applicants could not proceed with or submit their Form 6 application until this SIR mapping section was answered, acting as a technical gatekeeper. Sandhu and Joshi argued the form is embedded in the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, and cannot be altered without formal government notification. Despite the objection, it went live on the portal anyway. Sandhu warned that it risked harassing and disenfranchising first-time voters.&nbsp;<h2>Reactions from ECI and Opposition</h2>ECI sources told journalists that all decisions of the Commission, including SIR, have been unanimous and made with the approval of both Election Commissioners and the CEC; internal differing was part of the decision-making process, directly contradicting the premise of the Express investigation. Despite the attempt, it did not defuse the story; rather triggered the political community, specifically the opposition parties, with repeated calls for the removal of the CEC, Gyanesh Kumar. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called it a “treason”. Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal argued that most decisions since June 25, 2025, were not taken by majority despite Joshi and Sandhu's objections, and said the CEC acted without reference to the other two members, in violation of the Commission's own rules. Others like Akhilesh Yadav and CPI(M) MP John Brittas renewed demands for Kumar's removal, with Brittas noting that an April 2026 removal notice already has around 70 signatures.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two Election Commissioners reportedly objected 14 times over SIR-related decisions for 10 months, flagging concerns over voter rolls, ECINet and ‘illegal, unauthorised’ changes to Form 6 

The Election Commission of India's public unity have been put into question by an investigation by the Indian Express, which shows that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi formally objected 14 times over a period of ten months, four times on a single day, to decisions and processes under CEC Gyanesh Kumar specifically tied to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The exercise has affected roughly 13 crore voters across India. The ECI has attempted to shrug off the controversy, stating that differing opinions among Election Commission members are “a normal part” of the decision-making, while opposition parties have voiced their concern and demanded impeachment of the Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar. Also Read: Ukraine hits Ufa oil refinery as Russia strikes Kyiv after Zelensky-Trump talks Centralisation of Electoral Roll According to the Express Investigation, Election Commissioner Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi were kept in the dark about the decisions of ECI; the two commissioners even wrote to the Cabinet Secretary complaining about the change of work allocation that resulted in reduced oversight of the IT backbone of the electoral rolls. In fact, that was the key point of dispute: centralisation of the voter database. The two commissioners flagged that the Electoral Registration Officer, the statutory authority of each constituency's electoral roll, did not have "proper and complete access" to the database in ECINet. In May 2025, Joshi sought an audit by outside IIT experts to certify that “no one, except the concerned statutory authorities, has credentials to make any change in the (voter) database.” It questioned the only explanation given by the Election Commission for years to deny any allegation of electoral manipulation: that the electoral rolls were decentralised. The investigation claimed that the Election Commission's Director General of IT, Seema Khanna, had “no legal authority to restrict proper and complete access and freedom to operate,” the ECInet to the EROs. These discrepancies had led to the overriding of EROs and the blocking of eligible voters. By April 16, Sandhu was recording concerns that the IT division was developing new modules and portals without bringing them to his knowledge, saying he'd learned of some developments through the media rather than a proper briefing. Also Read: World leaders repeatedly call Gaza crisis ‘genocide’ as Israel’s war dominates opening sessions of UNGA Form 6 dispute Alongside the IT dispute, another slugfest broke out over the alteration of Form 6 – statutory in nature – which included new questions about first-time voters' parents and grandparents appearing on the “electoral roll of last SIR.” The Form 6 was linked to the forms of the SIR exercise, which are non-statutory and “a one-time measure and exception”. The portal was coded so that applicants could not proceed with or submit their Form 6 application until this SIR mapping section was answered, acting as a technical gatekeeper. Sandhu and Joshi argued the form is embedded in the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, and cannot be altered without formal government notification. Despite the objection, it went live on the portal anyway. Sandhu warned that it risked harassing and disenfranchising first-time voters. Reactions from ECI and Opposition ECI sources told journalists that all decisions of the Commission, including SIR, have been unanimous and made with the approval of both Election Commissioners and the CEC; internal differing was part of the decision-making process, directly contradicting the premise of the Express investigation. Despite the attempt, it did not defuse the story; rather triggered the political community, specifically the opposition parties, with repeated calls for the removal of the CEC, Gyanesh Kumar. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called it a “treason”. Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal argued that most decisions since June 25, 2025, were not taken by majority despite Joshi and Sandhu's objections, and said the CEC acted without reference to the other two members, in violation of the Commission's own rules. Others like Akhilesh Yadav and CPI(M) MP John Brittas renewed demands for Kumar's removal, with Brittas noting that an April 2026 removal notice already has around 70 signatures.

Two Election Commissioners reportedly objected 14 times over SIR-related decisions for 10 months, flagging concerns over voter rolls, ECINet and ‘illegal, unauthorised’ changes to Form 6&nbsp;

ECI rift? Two Election Commissioners quietly fought the CEC Gyanesh Kumar for 10 months

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his wife, Kyoko Jaishankar, are among the high-profile names that have received notices from the Election Commission during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in New Delhi.&nbsp;CBI Director Praveen Sood and members of his family, former Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and his wife, former Supreme Court judge Ranjana Desai and members of her family, the wife and son of CPM MP John Britas and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and his family have also received Special Intensive Revision (SIR) notices from the Election Commission as part of the exercise.All of these individuals are registered as voters within the New Delhi Assembly constituency. Jaishankar and his wife are voters in the Sunder Bagh electoral part of the New Delhi Assembly constituency.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-triumphal-arch-military-complex-drones-snipers-arlington-1789910187177">Trump says proposed 250-foot triumphal arch will be turned into ‘military complex’</a>Their names were listed under the “unmapped with last SIR” category, indicating that the Election Commission could not link their current electoral records with the rolls prepared during the previous revision exercise in 2002.&nbsp;CPM MP John Britas's wife, Sheba Britas, and their son, Anand Britas, cited different discrepancies. Sheba was cited under "self-name mismatch", while Anand received a notice over a "parent-name mismatch".A large number of top central government secretaries and agency heads were flagged under the "unmapped" or "mismatch" criteria. The total number of SIR notices spans roughly 33 lakh voters in Delhi. The Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi said that receiving a notice does not imply that their name will be removed from the list.&nbsp;“System-generated notices are being issued to the above-mentioned categories to correct their data in ECINET. No name can be deleted without giving an opportunity of being heard and a proper, speaking and appealable order,” the CEO said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

S Jaishankar, CBI Director Praveen Sood and former Army chief Upendra Dwivedi are among high-profile voters issued notices during Delhi’s SIR exercise.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his wife, Kyoko Jaishankar, are among the high-profile names that have received notices from the Election Commission during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in New Delhi. CBI Director Praveen Sood and members of his family, former Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and his wife, former Supreme Court judge Ranjana Desai and members of her family, the wife and son of CPM MP John Britas and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and his family have also received Special Intensive Revision (SIR) notices from the Election Commission as part of the exercise. All of these individuals are registered as voters within the New Delhi Assembly constituency. Jaishankar and his wife are voters in the Sunder Bagh electoral part of the New Delhi Assembly constituency. Also Read: Trump says proposed 250-foot triumphal arch will be turned into ‘military complex’ Their names were listed under the “unmapped with last SIR” category, indicating that the Election Commission could not link their current electoral records with the rolls prepared during the previous revision exercise in 2002. CPM MP John Britas's wife, Sheba Britas, and their son, Anand Britas, cited different discrepancies. Sheba was cited under "self-name mismatch", while Anand received a notice over a "parent-name mismatch". A large number of top central government secretaries and agency heads were flagged under the "unmapped" or "mismatch" criteria. The total number of SIR notices spans roughly 33 lakh voters in Delhi. The Chief Electoral Officer of Delhi said that receiving a notice does not imply that their name will be removed from the list. “System-generated notices are being issued to the above-mentioned categories to correct their data in ECINET. No name can be deleted without giving an opportunity of being heard and a proper, speaking and appealable order,” the CEO said.

S Jaishankar, CBI Director Praveen Sood and former Army chief Upendra Dwivedi are among high-profile voters issued notices during Delhi’s SIR exercise.

S Jaishankar, former Army chief among high-profile names issued Delhi SIR notices

In classic 'khela hobe' fashion, the Election Commission of India has tentatively allotted the Arup Roy-led group the name ‘Democratic Trinamool Congress’ with an envelope symbol, while Mamata Banerjee's group has been allotted ‘Mamata All India Trinamool Congress’ with a football player symbol, interim arrangements meant to hold until the underlying ownership dispute over the party's original identity is resolved.&nbsp;The allotments cap a frantic 24 hours after the ECI froze the Trinamool Congress' iconic ‘twin flowers and grass’ symbol and name on September 17, barring both the Mamata Banerjee faction and the Ritabrata Banerjee faction from using the original party identity in the upcoming October 6 bypolls in Nandigram and Rejinagar, polls that carry outsized symbolic weight after Mamata's 15-year hold on the state government.&nbsp;By Friday's 11 am deadline, both camps had submitted their wish lists to the Commission. The Ritabrata faction, which commands the backing of most sitting legislators, wanted to keep ‘Trinamool’ alive in whatever name it was given next. The Mamata camp, by contrast, pushed for her own name front and center, proposing ‘Mamata All India Trinamool Congress’ among its options, alongside a football player as its preferred symbol, with a cricket bat as backup.&nbsp;Reactions from the two sides diverged sharply. Ritabrata Banerjee framed the ruling as a vindication of constitutional process, posting that politics is ‘a permanent war; a war at every hour; a war at every minute’. Opposition Chief Whip Akhruzzaman, a Ritabrata loyalist, said his side would comply with the order for now while remaining confident that when the EC gives its final verdict, we will get the official and original name and symbol.&nbsp;On the other side, Mamata loyalist and MP Kalyan Banerjee rejected the order outright, calling it ‘contrary to law’ and citing what he described as legal infirmities in how it was framed, while signaling the camp would respond by the following morning. Fellow loyalist Kunal Ghosh took a more combative, almost theatrical tack, reportedly suggesting the rival faction should apply for the 'pillow' symbol, literally listed at number 116 on the ECI's roster, and insisting Mamata still has backup plans in reserve.&nbsp;Behind the scenes, the stakes appear to be climbing further. Sources indicate the Mamata camp, including MPs Kalyan Banerjee and Mahua Moitra, held extended legal consultations in Delhi over whether to challenge the ECI's interim order at the Supreme Court, weighing whether a court fight could actually deliver relief before the bypolls, or simply invite delay. Adding a national dimension to the standoff, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reportedly phoned Mamata Banerjee late Thursday night to convey that the fight over the Trinamool identity was not hers alone, but a cause the wider opposition intended to back.&nbsp;The symbolism cuts deep: the twin-flower emblem has represented Mamata's political journey since she broke from the Congress in 1997 and launched the Trinamool Congress on January 1, 1998. Twenty-eight years, a Kolkata Municipal Corporation win, the Singur and Nandigram movements, and three terms as Chief Minister later, that emblem now sits outside her camp's control, at least until the Commission's final word.

The allotments cap a frantic 24 hours after the ECI froze the Trinamool Congress' iconic ‘twin flowers and grass’ symbol and name on September 17

In classic 'khela hobe' fashion, the Election Commission of India has tentatively allotted the Arup Roy-led group the name ‘Democratic Trinamool Congress’ with an envelope symbol, while Mamata Banerjee's group has been allotted ‘Mamata All India Trinamool Congress’ with a football player symbol, interim arrangements meant to hold until the underlying ownership dispute over the party's original identity is resolved. The allotments cap a frantic 24 hours after the ECI froze the Trinamool Congress' iconic ‘twin flowers and grass’ symbol and name on September 17, barring both the Mamata Banerjee faction and the Ritabrata Banerjee faction from using the original party identity in the upcoming October 6 bypolls in Nandigram and Rejinagar, polls that carry outsized symbolic weight after Mamata's 15-year hold on the state government. By Friday's 11 am deadline, both camps had submitted their wish lists to the Commission. The Ritabrata faction, which commands the backing of most sitting legislators, wanted to keep ‘Trinamool’ alive in whatever name it was given next. The Mamata camp, by contrast, pushed for her own name front and center, proposing ‘Mamata All India Trinamool Congress’ among its options, alongside a football player as its preferred symbol, with a cricket bat as backup. Reactions from the two sides diverged sharply. Ritabrata Banerjee framed the ruling as a vindication of constitutional process, posting that politics is ‘a permanent war; a war at every hour; a war at every minute’. Opposition Chief Whip Akhruzzaman, a Ritabrata loyalist, said his side would comply with the order for now while remaining confident that when the EC gives its final verdict, we will get the official and original name and symbol. On the other side, Mamata loyalist and MP Kalyan Banerjee rejected the order outright, calling it ‘contrary to law’ and citing what he described as legal infirmities in how it was framed, while signaling the camp would respond by the following morning. Fellow loyalist Kunal Ghosh took a more combative, almost theatrical tack, reportedly suggesting the rival faction should apply for the 'pillow' symbol, literally listed at number 116 on the ECI's roster, and insisting Mamata still has backup plans in reserve. Behind the scenes, the stakes appear to be climbing further. Sources indicate the Mamata camp, including MPs Kalyan Banerjee and Mahua Moitra, held extended legal consultations in Delhi over whether to challenge the ECI's interim order at the Supreme Court, weighing whether a court fight could actually deliver relief before the bypolls, or simply invite delay. Adding a national dimension to the standoff, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reportedly phoned Mamata Banerjee late Thursday night to convey that the fight over the Trinamool identity was not hers alone, but a cause the wider opposition intended to back. The symbolism cuts deep: the twin-flower emblem has represented Mamata's political journey since she broke from the Congress in 1997 and launched the Trinamool Congress on January 1, 1998. Twenty-eight years, a Kolkata Municipal Corporation win, the Singur and Nandigram movements, and three terms as Chief Minister later, that emblem now sits outside her camp's control, at least until the Commission's final word.

The allotments cap a frantic 24 hours after the ECI froze the Trinamool Congress' iconic ‘twin flowers and grass’ symbol and name on Thursday (September 17)

Football player and envelope: Mamata Banerjee's camp, rebels get new name, symbol

The Election Commission of India is expected to decide the bitter contest for the Trinamool Congress name and its iconic ‘jora phool’ (twin-flower) symbol on Friday, sources said, after West Bengal Leader of Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee met the full bench in Delhi on Thursday.&nbsp;Both Ritabrata’s faction and the Mamata Banerjee-led group claim to be the authentic party ahead of the crucial Nandigram and Rejinagar bypolls.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nominations closed Wednesday and scrutiny took place on Thursday, leaving symbol allotment as the immediate flashpoint. Both sides have submitted Forms A and B, forcing the Commission to adjudicate.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-agrees-to-hear-plea-against-delhi-sir-on-priority-after-deletion-of-47-lakh-voters-1789652385281">Supreme Court agrees to hear plea against Delhi SIR on priority after deletion of 47 lakh voters</a>&nbsp;Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Ritabrata Banerjee said, “We met the Election Commission’s full bench today… We presented our arguments and addressed the queries raised regarding the by-elections in Rejinagar and Nandigram. Yesterday was the deadline for filing nominations for these by-elections, and scrutiny took place today, so the issue of symbol allotment is now pending. We have submitted Forms A and B; however, Forms A and B have also been submitted from Kalighat, so the Election Commission must make the final decision.”&nbsp;“We are representing the Trinamool Congress and have submitted Form A. The process now lies with the Election Commission and the Returning Officer, who will likely make a decision after consulting the Commission… The Election Commission is the apex body; we must have faith in it. We operate within a parliamentary democracy, so we have to trust the Election Commission,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drone-firm-linked-to-trump-s-sons-signs-mou-with-pakistan-army-gets-initial-order-1789648161978">US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order</a>&nbsp;Senior leader Kalyan Banerjee, representing the Mamata camp, countered that the rival faction has no basis for interim relief. He questioned how the other side obtained tickets and contested on the party symbol if the chairperson’s term had allegedly ended in 2025. Kalyan stressed that Mamata Banerjee founded the party and the symbol belongs to her side. He argued that any valid election must follow the constitutional hierarchy from booth level upwards and that the claimed 22 June session skipped all processes without notice to MPs. As a multi-state party, AITC requires proper all-India elections, he said, adding that court orders do not bind the Election Commission and the symbol can go only to the authorised faction.&nbsp;The Kalighat group also proposed that both sides summon their workers to Brigade Parade Ground so the Commission can see the real strength on the ground. They further urged the EC not to issue any interim order on matters already before the courts, noting one cannot approach both forums simultaneously.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-treasury-rallies-global-financial-institutions-for-op-economic-outcast-to-isolate-iran-1789588781387">US Treasury rallies global financial institutions for Op Economic Outcast to isolate Iran</a>&nbsp;The episode echoes the Shiv Sena split in Maharashtra, where the EC froze the original symbol and allotted temporary names and symbols to both factions. A similar outcome remains possible here.&nbsp;The Commission’s decision will determine which camp—or neither—gets to contest the bypolls under the familiar ‘Jora Phool’. The ruling carries high political stakes in West Bengal, testing organisational claims and potentially reshaping the opposition landscape ahead of larger electoral battles. Both sides have expressed faith in the EC as the final arbiter.

Senior leader Kalyan Banerjee, representing the Mamata camp, countered that the rival faction has no basis for interim relief. He questioned how the other side obtained tickets and contested on the party symbol if the chairperson’s term had allegedly ended in 2025.

The Election Commission of India is expected to decide the bitter contest for the Trinamool Congress name and its iconic ‘jora phool’ (twin-flower) symbol on Friday, sources said, after West Bengal Leader of Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee met the full bench in Delhi on Thursday. Both Ritabrata’s faction and the Mamata Banerjee-led group claim to be the authentic party ahead of the crucial Nandigram and Rejinagar bypolls. Nominations closed Wednesday and scrutiny took place on Thursday, leaving symbol allotment as the immediate flashpoint. Both sides have submitted Forms A and B, forcing the Commission to adjudicate. Also Read: Supreme Court agrees to hear plea against Delhi SIR on priority after deletion of 47 lakh voters Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Ritabrata Banerjee said, “We met the Election Commission’s full bench today… We presented our arguments and addressed the queries raised regarding the by-elections in Rejinagar and Nandigram. Yesterday was the deadline for filing nominations for these by-elections, and scrutiny took place today, so the issue of symbol allotment is now pending. We have submitted Forms A and B; however, Forms A and B have also been submitted from Kalighat, so the Election Commission must make the final decision.” “We are representing the Trinamool Congress and have submitted Form A. The process now lies with the Election Commission and the Returning Officer, who will likely make a decision after consulting the Commission… The Election Commission is the apex body; we must have faith in it. We operate within a parliamentary democracy, so we have to trust the Election Commission,” he added. Also Read: US drone firm linked to Trump’s sons signs MoU with Pakistan army, gets initial order Senior leader Kalyan Banerjee, representing the Mamata camp, countered that the rival faction has no basis for interim relief. He questioned how the other side obtained tickets and contested on the party symbol if the chairperson’s term had allegedly ended in 2025. Kalyan stressed that Mamata Banerjee founded the party and the symbol belongs to her side. He argued that any valid election must follow the constitutional hierarchy from booth level upwards and that the claimed 22 June session skipped all processes without notice to MPs. As a multi-state party, AITC requires proper all-India elections, he said, adding that court orders do not bind the Election Commission and the symbol can go only to the authorised faction. The Kalighat group also proposed that both sides summon their workers to Brigade Parade Ground so the Commission can see the real strength on the ground. They further urged the EC not to issue any interim order on matters already before the courts, noting one cannot approach both forums simultaneously. Also Read: US Treasury rallies global financial institutions for Op Economic Outcast to isolate Iran The episode echoes the Shiv Sena split in Maharashtra, where the EC froze the original symbol and allotted temporary names and symbols to both factions. A similar outcome remains possible here. The Commission’s decision will determine which camp—or neither—gets to contest the bypolls under the familiar ‘Jora Phool’. The ruling carries high political stakes in West Bengal, testing organisational claims and potentially reshaping the opposition landscape ahead of larger electoral battles. Both sides have expressed faith in the EC as the final arbiter.

Senior leader Kalyan Banerjee, representing the Mamata camp, countered that the rival faction has no basis for interim relief. He questioned how the other side obtained tickets and contested on the party symbol if the chairperson’s term had allegedly ended in 2025.

EC decision on TMC symbol row likely on Friday as factions battle for ‘jora phool’

Six Gujarat-based political parties have earned around ₹1,700 crore in the financial year 2023-24, which is more than the combined financial income of five national parties the Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party, the Bahujan Samaj Party, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the National People’s Party at around ₹1,480 crore, excluding BJP. &nbsp;These six registered unrecognised political parties fielded only 15 candidates collectively in the 2024 General Assembly elections, compared to the five national parties excluding BJP, which fielded 893 candidates. Four of these registered unrecognised parties are based in one single area, Naroda, Gujarat.The BBC News investigative report published on August 4, 2026, drawing upon the Association for Democratic Reform (ADR) and official financial filings from the Election Commission of India (ECI), identified these parties as the Aam Janmat Party, Bharatiya National Janata Dal, Garib Kalyan Party, New India United Party, Satyawadi Rakshak Party and the Swatantrata Abhivyakti Party.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/swatantra-bhardwaj-judicial-custody-jantar-mantar-assault-case-1788688916591">'Influencer' Swatantra Bhardwaj sent to one-day judicial custody in Jantar Mantar assault case</a>The 2025 ADR report has claimed that all of them have a 223 per cent hike in income during the 2022–23 financial year. They had a cumulative income of ₹2,316 crore in the years between 2019 and 2024.&nbsp;The party which received the highest donation is the Aam Janmat Party, with ₹ 620 crore in donations in the fiscal year 2023-24 is more than double that of the Indian National Congress at ₹ 281 crore. A jump of roughly 187 per cent from ₹216 crore it had received in the previous financial year. The party surprisingly fielded only one candidate in the General Assembly Election in 2024.&nbsp;The party's Facebook page lists Anamika Paswan, currently a state vice president for the BJP in Bihar, as its national president. It was established with Anamika Paswan as its President in Patan in 2020. However, Paswan informed the BBC that she resigned from the party in 2022 when it shifted to Gujarat.The Satyawadi Rakshak Party, based in Gujarat’s Anand, secured around ₹330 crore in donations; Swatantrata Abhivyakti Party secured around ₹219 crore; New India United Party secured around ₹200 crore; Bharatiya National Janta Dal around ₹191 crore; and Gareeb Kalyan Party around ₹138 crore. The BBC reported that most of these parties have their offices shut and their leaders unwilling to speak.&nbsp;The story builds on the back of the ADR report published on July 18, 2025. The report flagged that 73 per cent of the nearly 2,800 registered unrecognised political parties have not disclosed their financial records. According to the report, Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of registered unrecognised political parties with 744, followed by Delhi with 240 and Tamil Nadu with 230. The most recognised of these parties is the National Citizen’s Party of India, which housed 20 rebel MPs from the Trinamool Congress following the 2026 West Bengal Assembly Election.&nbsp;

Six Gujarat-based unrecognised parties earned ₹1,700 crore in 2023-24, more than five national parties that earned ₹1,480 crore combined.

Six Gujarat-based political parties have earned around ₹1,700 crore in the financial year 2023-24, which is more than the combined financial income of five national parties the Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party, the Bahujan Samaj Party, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the National People’s Party at around ₹1,480 crore, excluding BJP. These six registered unrecognised political parties fielded only 15 candidates collectively in the 2024 General Assembly elections, compared to the five national parties excluding BJP, which fielded 893 candidates. Four of these registered unrecognised parties are based in one single area, Naroda, Gujarat. The BBC News investigative report published on August 4, 2026, drawing upon the Association for Democratic Reform (ADR) and official financial filings from the Election Commission of India (ECI), identified these parties as the Aam Janmat Party, Bharatiya National Janata Dal, Garib Kalyan Party, New India United Party, Satyawadi Rakshak Party and the Swatantrata Abhivyakti Party. Also Read: 'Influencer' Swatantra Bhardwaj sent to one-day judicial custody in Jantar Mantar assault case The 2025 ADR report has claimed that all of them have a 223 per cent hike in income during the 2022–23 financial year. They had a cumulative income of ₹2,316 crore in the years between 2019 and 2024. The party which received the highest donation is the Aam Janmat Party, with ₹ 620 crore in donations in the fiscal year 2023-24 is more than double that of the Indian National Congress at ₹ 281 crore. A jump of roughly 187 per cent from ₹216 crore it had received in the previous financial year. The party surprisingly fielded only one candidate in the General Assembly Election in 2024. The party's Facebook page lists Anamika Paswan, currently a state vice president for the BJP in Bihar, as its national president. It was established with Anamika Paswan as its President in Patan in 2020. However, Paswan informed the BBC that she resigned from the party in 2022 when it shifted to Gujarat. The Satyawadi Rakshak Party, based in Gujarat’s Anand, secured around ₹330 crore in donations; Swatantrata Abhivyakti Party secured around ₹219 crore; New India United Party secured around ₹200 crore; Bharatiya National Janta Dal around ₹191 crore; and Gareeb Kalyan Party around ₹138 crore. The BBC reported that most of these parties have their offices shut and their leaders unwilling to speak. The story builds on the back of the ADR report published on July 18, 2025. The report flagged that 73 per cent of the nearly 2,800 registered unrecognised political parties have not disclosed their financial records. According to the report, Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of registered unrecognised political parties with 744, followed by Delhi with 240 and Tamil Nadu with 230. The most recognised of these parties is the National Citizen’s Party of India, which housed 20 rebel MPs from the Trinamool Congress following the 2026 West Bengal Assembly Election.

Six Gujarat-based unrecognised parties earned ₹1,700 crore in 2023-24, more than five national parties that earned ₹1,480 crore combined.

Six unrecognised Gujarat parties earned ₹1,700 crore, fielded just 15 candidates

India’s electoral participation has continued to rise across states following the Election Commission of India’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, with fresh ECI data showing not only higher voter turnout percentages but also a significant increase in the absolute number of voters participating in Assembly elections. The figures, released after the 2026 Assembly polls in five states and union territories, suggest that the SIR process played a key role in expanding and updating electoral rolls, leading to broader voter participation across regions.&nbsp;The Election Commission of India (ECI) released the figures under its “Chunav Ka Parv, Matdata Ka Garv” campaign, highlighting how the electorate across these four states and one Union Territory, namely Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry, has expanded significantly over the decades, alongside consistently high voter turnout levels among the strongest in the country. The pattern demonstrates sustained electoral engagement across regions and political contexts.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-oil-exports-through-strait-of-hormuz-plunge-from-93-million-to-10-million-barrels-amid-iran-war-1778925779784">Iraq oil exports through Strait of Hormuz plunge from 93 million to 10 million barrels in April</a>&nbsp;<h3>Turnout and voter numbers rise across states</h3>&nbsp;Among the sharpest increases was recorded in West Bengal, where voter turnout reached a historic 93.71 per cent in the 2026 Assembly elections, the highest since Independence. The total number of participating voters rose to 63,842,843 from 60,419,691 in 2021. The ECI’s historical graph also showed a steady rise from 39,294,971 voters in 2006.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Chunav Ka Parv, Paschim Bengal Ka Garv West Bengal achieved its highest-ever voter turnout since Independence, reaching a historic 93.71%.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ECI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ECI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Elections2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Elections2026</a> <a href="https://t.co/rW0KOJUKRP">pic.twitter.com/rW0KOJUKRP</a>&mdash; Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP/status/2055313154264207786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Tamil Nadu registered an 86.03 per cent turnout, described by the ECI as the state’s highest-ever poll participation since Independence. The number of participating voters increased to 49,389,958 from 46,344,590 in 2021. Kerala recorded a turnout of 79.53 per cent, with 21,630,208 voters participating compared with 20,903,233 in the previous election. Officials described it as the highest-ever participation in terms of absolute numbers, crossing 2.16 crore voters.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sovereign-and-independent-democratic-nation-taiwan-rejects-subordination-to-china-after-trump-warning-1778919125552">'Sovereign and independent democratic nation': Taiwan rejects subordination to China after Trump warning</a>&nbsp;

Higher turnout and rising voter number

In Assam, turnout stood at 86.33 per cent, while participating voters rose to 21,684,656 from 19,315,846 in 2021. ECI graphs showed a continuous rise in voter participation since 1985. Puducherry recorded a turnout of 91.19 per cent, with voters increasing to 866,932 from 837,543 in 2021. In a post on X, the ECI said: “From first-time voters to senior citizens, Puducherry showed the power of participation.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Chunav Ka Parv, Puducherry Ka Garv ✨ 🇮🇳 Puducherry Creates History! A record-breaking *91.19%* voter turnout,… <a href="https://t.co/7WqsgzF765">pic.twitter.com/7WqsgzF765</a>&mdash; Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP/status/2055313009195811044?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h3>SIR exercise and electoral revision</h3>&nbsp;The ECI said the Special Intensive Revision exercise aims to enrol new voters turning 18, correct errors in electoral rolls, remove duplicate or ineligible entries and update voter data to reflect demographic changes. Officials described the exercise as a constitutional obligation under the Representation of the People Act, 1950. The Commission has now announced SIR Phase III across 16 states and three Union Territories, including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with the schedule aligned alongside ongoing Census house-listing operations. Reuters contributed to this report.

The data covers Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry, where turnout percentages and voter numbers both recorded significant increases compared with the previous elections. The pattern demonstrates sustained electoral engagement across regions and political contexts.

India’s electoral participation has continued to rise across states following the Election Commission of India’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, with fresh ECI data showing not only higher voter turnout percentages but also a significant increase in the absolute number of voters participating in Assembly elections. The figures, released after the 2026 Assembly polls in five states and union territories, suggest that the SIR process played a key role in expanding and updating electoral rolls, leading to broader voter participation across regions. The Election Commission of India (ECI) released the figures under its “Chunav Ka Parv, Matdata Ka Garv” campaign, highlighting how the electorate across these four states and one Union Territory, namely Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry, has expanded significantly over the decades, alongside consistently high voter turnout levels among the strongest in the country. The pattern demonstrates sustained electoral engagement across regions and political contexts. ALSO READ: Iraq oil exports through Strait of Hormuz plunge from 93 million to 10 million barrels in April Turnout and voter numbers rise across states Among the sharpest increases was recorded in West Bengal, where voter turnout reached a historic 93.71 per cent in the 2026 Assembly elections, the highest since Independence. The total number of participating voters rose to 63,842,843 from 60,419,691 in 2021. The ECI’s historical graph also showed a steady rise from 39,294,971 voters in 2006.

The data covers Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry, where turnout percentages and voter numbers both recorded significant increases compared with the previous elections. The pattern demonstrates sustained electoral engagement across regions and political contexts.

Record electoral participation seen across Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam & Puducherry in recent elections: ECI

According to Election Commission data, the BJP is leading in 193 seats and has secured one, while the All India Trinamool Congress is leading in 91 seats with one win. The Congress and CPI(M) are trailing with marginal leads.

According to Election Commission data, the BJP is leading in 193 seats and has secured one, while the All India Trinamool Congress is leading in 91 seats with one win. The Congress and CPI(M) are trailing with marginal leads.

West Bengal election results 2026: BJP on track to form first-ever government since Independence; Why this win could be historic

The Election Commission of India has deployed additional counting observers and police observers for the upcoming West Bengal Assembly Elections. The move aims to ensure a transparent, secure, and smooth vote-counting process amid heightened political activity.


Bengal Elections: ECI Deploys Additional Counting Observers & Police Observers

The Trinamool Congress party alleged on Thursday that the BJP and the Election Commission in West Bengal were tampering with the EVMs. The party shared a CCTV video of the EVM strong room in Kolkata and accused the BJP workers of trying to manipulate the votes in the absence of any relevant authority.&nbsp;The Election Commission responded to the allegations and issued an official statement sharing the security measures taken for a fair election counting. The Election Commission said that the strong rooms are closed and sealed, and there is no possibility of such an occurrence.&nbsp;TMC leaders Shashi Panja and Kunal Ghosh protested at Netaji Indoor Stadium, where the EVM strong room has been set up.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-exit-poll-predictions-made-at-bjp-s-behest-to-demoralise-tmc-workers-alleges-mamata-claims-to-win-two-thirds-majority-1777560531634">‘Exit poll predictions made at BJP’s behest to demoralise TMC workers,’ alleges Mamata, claims to win two-thirds majority</a>&nbsp;The TMC said in a post on X that CCTV footage showed ballot boxes being opened without the presence of any relevant party stakeholders, alleging gross electoral fraud carried out in active collusion between the BJP and the Election Commission.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Election Commission released a detailed statement, saying, “With reference to video being circulated on social media handles, there are 7 AC strong rooms inside the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra. They all have been duly closed and sealed in the presence of Candidates/Election agents and General Observer after completion of poll yesterday. Last Strong room was closed in the morning around 5.15 am.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-foreigners-have-no-place-in-gulf-except-at-the-bottom-of-its-waters-says-mojtaba-khamenei-in-menacing-warning-to-us-1777550052404">‘Foreigners have no place in Gulf, except at the bottom of its waters,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in menacing warning to US</a>&nbsp;“⁠All strong rooms containing polled EVMs are safely secured and sealed. ⁠There is another strong room in the same premise for Postal ballot wherein we have kept AC-wise polled ballots as done by different polling personnel and ETBPS. We had notified all Observers, ROs and requested ROs to inform their candidates and agents about this. ⁠ROs informed the political parties by mail,” it added.&nbsp;“The main strong rooms are safely secured and locked. The same was duly shown to Shashi Panja, Kunal Ghosh and Kali from BJP.”&nbsp;The EC further said, “⁠The segregation of the ballot was taking place in the corridor of strong rooms from 4pm.”

The Election Commission denied the tampering charges and released a detailed statement saying all strong rooms containing polled EVMs are safely secured and sealed, and there is no possibility of such an occurrence.

The Trinamool Congress party alleged on Thursday that the BJP and the Election Commission in West Bengal were tampering with the EVMs. The party shared a CCTV video of the EVM strong room in Kolkata and accused the BJP workers of trying to manipulate the votes in the absence of any relevant authority. The Election Commission responded to the allegations and issued an official statement sharing the security measures taken for a fair election counting. The Election Commission said that the strong rooms are closed and sealed, and there is no possibility of such an occurrence. TMC leaders Shashi Panja and Kunal Ghosh protested at Netaji Indoor Stadium, where the EVM strong room has been set up. Also Read: ‘Exit poll predictions made at BJP’s behest to demoralise TMC workers,’ alleges Mamata, claims to win two-thirds majority The TMC said in a post on X that CCTV footage showed ballot boxes being opened without the presence of any relevant party stakeholders, alleging gross electoral fraud carried out in active collusion between the BJP and the Election Commission. The Election Commission released a detailed statement, saying, “With reference to video being circulated on social media handles, there are 7 AC strong rooms inside the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra. They all have been duly closed and sealed in the presence of Candidates/Election agents and General Observer after completion of poll yesterday. Last Strong room was closed in the morning around 5.15 am.” Also Read: ‘Foreigners have no place in Gulf, except at the bottom of its waters,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in menacing warning to US “⁠All strong rooms containing polled EVMs are safely secured and sealed. ⁠There is another strong room in the same premise for Postal ballot wherein we have kept AC-wise polled ballots as done by different polling personnel and ETBPS. We had notified all Observers, ROs and requested ROs to inform their candidates and agents about this. ⁠ROs informed the political parties by mail,” it added. “The main strong rooms are safely secured and locked. The same was duly shown to Shashi Panja, Kunal Ghosh and Kali from BJP.” The EC further said, “⁠The segregation of the ballot was taking place in the corridor of strong rooms from 4pm.”

The Election Commission denied the tampering charges and released a detailed statement saying all strong rooms containing polled EVMs are safely secured and sealed, and there is no possibility of such an occurrence.&nbsp;

TMC alleges EVM tampering in Kolkata strongroom, shares video; EC rebuts charge

The Supreme Court of India has refused to grant interim voting rights to those whose names were deleted amid the voter roll clean-up process, special intensive revision (SIR) and whose appeals are still awaited in front of the appellate tribunals.&nbsp;During the proceedings, Trinamool Congress leader Kalyan Banerjee stated that at least 1.6 million appeals have been filed, and they must be given a chance to vote in the two-phase assembly election in West Bengal, according to a report by news agency PTI.&nbsp;In response, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said, "That is entirely out of the question. If we were to permit this, then the voting rights of the individuals involved would have to be suspended."<h3>Millions of appeals in SIR exercise</h3>Justice Joymalya Bagchi confirmed that there are 3.4 million appeals in the SIR exercise, adding that a report submitted by the Calcutta High Court Chief Justice clearly indicates this data. The Election Commission of India has finalised the voter list in West Bengal, meaning no new names can be added before the election unless the Supreme Court of India issues a specific order, which it did not do in this case.&nbsp;To handle disputes, 19 appellate tribunals have been established in the Bangladesh-bordering state to review around 2.7 million cases involving deleted names. The Supreme Court’s direction came after 13 individuals challenged the removal of their names from the voter list. The court termed their plea “premature” and advised them to seek relief through the appellate tribunals instead.&nbsp;"Since the petitioners (Quaraisha Yeasmin and others) have already approached the appellate tribunals… in our considered view, the apprehensions expressed in the petition are premature. If the plea is allowed, then necessary consequences will follow," the bench said in its order, and added that it has not expressed any opinions on the merits of the plea. The petitioners also alleged that the Election Commission was removing names without due process and that appeals were not being addressed promptly.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-mk-stalin-seeks-fresh-mandate-pitches-dravidian-model-2-0-in-tamil-nadu-1776018663180">CM MK Stalin seeks fresh mandate, pitches ‘Dravidian Model 2.0’ in Tamil Nadu</a>

Trinamool Congress leader Kalyan Banerjee said during the proceedings that at least 1.6 million appeals have been filed, and they must be given a chance to vote in the two-phase assembly election in West Bengal.

The Supreme Court of India has refused to grant interim voting rights to those whose names were deleted amid the voter roll clean-up process, special intensive revision (SIR) and whose appeals are still awaited in front of the appellate tribunals. During the proceedings, Trinamool Congress leader Kalyan Banerjee stated that at least 1.6 million appeals have been filed, and they must be given a chance to vote in the two-phase assembly election in West Bengal, according to a report by news agency PTI. In response, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said, "That is entirely out of the question. If we were to permit this, then the voting rights of the individuals involved would have to be suspended." Millions of appeals in SIR exercise Justice Joymalya Bagchi confirmed that there are 3.4 million appeals in the SIR exercise, adding that a report submitted by the Calcutta High Court Chief Justice clearly indicates this data. The Election Commission of India has finalised the voter list in West Bengal, meaning no new names can be added before the election unless the Supreme Court of India issues a specific order, which it did not do in this case. To handle disputes, 19 appellate tribunals have been established in the Bangladesh-bordering state to review around 2.7 million cases involving deleted names. The Supreme Court’s direction came after 13 individuals challenged the removal of their names from the voter list. The court termed their plea “premature” and advised them to seek relief through the appellate tribunals instead. "Since the petitioners (Quaraisha Yeasmin and others) have already approached the appellate tribunals… in our considered view, the apprehensions expressed in the petition are premature. If the plea is allowed, then necessary consequences will follow," the bench said in its order, and added that it has not expressed any opinions on the merits of the plea. The petitioners also alleged that the Election Commission was removing names without due process and that appeals were not being addressed promptly. Also read: CM MK Stalin seeks fresh mandate, pitches ‘Dravidian Model 2.0’ in Tamil Nadu

Trinamool Congress leader Kalyan Banerjee said during the proceedings that at least 1.6 million appeals have been filed, and they must be given a chance to vote in the two-phase assembly election in West Bengal.

Supreme Court of India rejects relief for deleted voters in West Bengal SIR process

After the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the schedule for the General Election to Legislative Assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal and bye-elections in 6 states, political temperatures are soaring across different parties in India. Before the polling, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had urged all eligible citizens of respective states to ensure their names were officially registered in the electoral roll.&nbsp;If voters want to check whether their names are officially registered in the electoral roll, they can verify their credentials digitally to avoid any last-minute hurdles at the polling booth. Whether you are a first-time voter or have recently shifted your residence, ensuring your name appears on the voter list is the most crucial step before heading out to exercise your democratic right. The Election Commission has streamlined the process through the Voters' Service Portal.&nbsp;<h3>Follow these simple steps to verify your registration:</h3>Step 1: Visit the Official Portal&nbsp;Go to the official Electoral Search website at <a href="https://electoralsearch.eci.gov.in/">electoralsearch.eci.gov.in</a> or download the Voter Helpline App (available on Android and iOS).&nbsp;Step 2: Choose Your Search Method&nbsp;You will see three primary options to find your name:&nbsp;<ul><li>Search by EPIC: Enter your EPIC Number (the alphanumeric code on your Voter ID card) and your state. This is the fastest and most accurate method.</li><li>Search by Details: Manually enter your name, father’s/husband’s name, age, gender, state, and district.</li><li>Search by Mobile: If your mobile number is linked to your Voter ID, you can generate an OTP to pull up your details instantly.</li></ul>&nbsp;Step 3: Enter the Captcha&nbsp;After filling in the required fields, carefully type the Captcha code shown on the screen to verify you are not a bot.&nbsp;Step 4: View and Download Results&nbsp;Click on the 'Search' button. If you are registered, your details, including your Part Number, Serial Number, and Polling Station, will appear at the bottom of the page. You can click on 'View Details' and print a copy of your "Voter Information Slip" for your reference.&nbsp;What if your name is missing?&nbsp;If your search yields no results, it is possible your name has been deleted or was never registered. While the deadline for new registrations for the April phases has passed in most states, you should immediately contact your Booth Level Officer (BLO) or call the national voter helpline at 1950 for assistance regarding the May phases or future elections.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-elections-on-april-9-pre-poll-surveys-indicate-neck-to-neck-contest-between-udf-ldf-nda-in-focus-too-1775453399322">Kerala Elections on April 9: Pre-poll surveys indicate neck-and-neck contest between UDF, LDF, NDA in focus too</a>

Whether you are a first-time voter or have recently shifted your residence, ensuring your name appears on the voter list is the most crucial step before heading out to exercise your democratic right. Check out the details in the article to find your name in the list online.

After the Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the schedule for the General Election to Legislative Assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal and bye-elections in 6 states, political temperatures are soaring across different parties in India. Before the polling, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had urged all eligible citizens of respective states to ensure their names were officially registered in the electoral roll. If voters want to check whether their names are officially registered in the electoral roll, they can verify their credentials digitally to avoid any last-minute hurdles at the polling booth. Whether you are a first-time voter or have recently shifted your residence, ensuring your name appears on the voter list is the most crucial step before heading out to exercise your democratic right. The Election Commission has streamlined the process through the Voters' Service Portal. Follow these simple steps to verify your registration: Step 1: Visit the Official Portal Go to the official Electoral Search website at electoralsearch.eci.gov.in or download the Voter Helpline App (available on Android and iOS). Step 2: Choose Your Search Method You will see three primary options to find your name: Search by EPIC: Enter your EPIC Number (the alphanumeric code on your Voter ID card) and your state. This is the fastest and most accurate method. Search by Details: Manually enter your name, father’s/husband’s name, age, gender, state, and district. Search by Mobile: If your mobile number is linked to your Voter ID, you can generate an OTP to pull up your details instantly. Step 3: Enter the Captcha After filling in the required fields, carefully type the Captcha code shown on the screen to verify you are not a bot. Step 4: View and Download Results Click on the 'Search' button. If you are registered, your details, including your Part Number, Serial Number, and Polling Station, will appear at the bottom of the page. You can click on 'View Details' and print a copy of your "Voter Information Slip" for your reference. What if your name is missing? If your search yields no results, it is possible your name has been deleted or was never registered. While the deadline for new registrations for the April phases has passed in most states, you should immediately contact your Booth Level Officer (BLO) or call the national voter helpline at 1950 for assistance regarding the May phases or future elections. Also read: Kerala Elections on April 9: Pre-poll surveys indicate neck-and-neck contest between UDF, LDF, NDA in focus too

Whether you are a first-time voter or have recently shifted your residence, ensuring your name appears on the voter list is the most crucial step before heading out to exercise your democratic right. Check out the details in the article to find your name in the list online.

Is your name on voter list 2026? Here’s how you can check online: Step-by-step guide

As the Election Commission's circular with a seal of the BJP Kerala Unit sparked a major controversy, an official clarification came explaining it was a “clerical error”. The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) submitted an old 2019 ECI guideline to the Chief Electoral Officer’s office to ask for clarification on the publication of criminal antecedents of candidates. The Election Commission suggested that the same document was mistakenly forwarded to other parties for the same clarification. The explanation raised more questions than it settled. Several posts reporting the story were deleted from Social media, under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act. Notices sent to some journalists by the Kerala Police said that the content reporting the story “undermines communal harmony.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-modi-foreign-policy-iran-crisis-india-1774348116061">'A universal joke': Rahul Gandhi attacks Narendra Modi over foreign policy amid Iran war</a><h2>Why official explanation raise more questions than it answers?</h2>Opposition parties like the Trinamool Congress, Indian National Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist) alleged that earlier there were just allegations of collusion between Bharatiya Janata Party and the Election Commission, but now the seal proves that the Election Commission and BJP are working together. CPI(M) Kerala shared the image widely, asking the BJP to at least have the courtesy to have a “separate desk”.According to the official explanation, ECI forwarded the same ECI guidelines which the BJP submitted while seeking clarification on the same matter. It is baffling why the ECI would forward the same document which was sent by one political party seeking an explanation on any matter to other polictical party. If ECI was using the document as the master copy, does this imply that ECI takes BJP's confidence before issuing guidelines? Now it further raises the question of what else the ECI is seeking advice on from the ruling party, and if the apex poll body has forsaken its neutrality, as the opposition is claiming. Following the incident, as the story was reported, those reports were taken down, citing issues of communal harmony. Further, as ECI was suggesting that the incident was a “clerical error”, the BJP IT cell head was calling it “fake news”.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;

ECI’s “clerical error” explanation over a BJP Kerala circular has sparked controversy, with opposition questioning the poll body’s neutrality.

As the Election Commission's circular with a seal of the BJP Kerala Unit sparked a major controversy, an official clarification came explaining it was a “clerical error”. The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) submitted an old 2019 ECI guideline to the Chief Electoral Officer’s office to ask for clarification on the publication of criminal antecedents of candidates. The Election Commission suggested that the same document was mistakenly forwarded to other parties for the same clarification. The explanation raised more questions than it settled. Several posts reporting the story were deleted from Social media, under Section 79(3)(b) of the Information Technology Act. Notices sent to some journalists by the Kerala Police said that the content reporting the story “undermines communal harmony.” Also Read: 'A universal joke': Rahul Gandhi attacks Narendra Modi over foreign policy amid Iran war Why official explanation raise more questions than it answers? Opposition parties like the Trinamool Congress, Indian National Congress and Communist Party of India (Marxist) alleged that earlier there were just allegations of collusion between Bharatiya Janata Party and the Election Commission, but now the seal proves that the Election Commission and BJP are working together. CPI(M) Kerala shared the image widely, asking the BJP to at least have the courtesy to have a “separate desk”. According to the official explanation, ECI forwarded the same ECI guidelines which the BJP submitted while seeking clarification on the same matter. It is baffling why the ECI would forward the same document which was sent by one political party seeking an explanation on any matter to other polictical party. If ECI was using the document as the master copy, does this imply that ECI takes BJP's confidence before issuing guidelines? Now it further raises the question of what else the ECI is seeking advice on from the ruling party, and if the apex poll body has forsaken its neutrality, as the opposition is claiming. Following the incident, as the story was reported, those reports were taken down, citing issues of communal harmony. Further, as ECI was suggesting that the incident was a “clerical error”, the BJP IT cell head was calling it “fake news”.

ECI’s “clerical error” explanation over a BJP Kerala circular has sparked controversy, with opposition questioning the poll body’s neutrality.

Why ECI’s 'clerical error' explanation on BJP Kerala Circular is facing scrutiny?

As many as 130 Lok Sabha MPs and 63 Rajya Sabha MPs from the opposition benches in the two Houses have signed a notice seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar from his post, sources said on Thursday. The notice is likely to be submitted in at least one of the two Houses on Friday, though it was not clear in which House it would be brought first, reported PTI, citing sources. An opposition leader said that MPs showed great enthusiasm in signing the notice, with several lawmakers coming forward to sign the notice on Thursday, even as the requisite numbers had already been achieved.&nbsp;According to rules, at least 100 MPs must sign a notice seeking the removal of the CEC in the Lok Sabha, while the required strength in the Rajya Sabha stands at 50.If submitted, this would mark the first time that a notice has been given seeking the removal of a chief election commissioner.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-tanker-with-indian-captain-went-dark-to-cross-high-risk-strait-of-hormuz-reach-mumbai-1773315721972">Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai</a>&nbsp;The notice has been signed by members of parliament from all the INDIA bloc parties, the source said. Even MPs from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which is no longer officially part of the bloc, have signed the notice in a bid to group up against the government, said another source.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Seven charges listed in notice against CEC Gyanesh Kumar</h2>&nbsp;The report suggested that seven charges have been listed in the notice against the CEC Gyanesh Kumar, ranging from “partisan and discriminatory conduct in office” to “deliberate obstruction of investigation of electoral fraud” and “mass disenfranchisement.”&nbsp;The Opposition parties have been repeatedly accusing the CEC of aiding the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on several occasions and blamed him after suffering electoral losses.&nbsp;The allegations intensified particularly after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise was started by the Election Commission in several states where elections are due in the coming days. Opposition leaders claim that SIR was aimed at benefiting the ruling party.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-it-struck-taleghan-compound-where-iran-advanced-its-nuclear-programme-1773320992019">Israel says it struck Taleghan compound, where Iran ‘advanced’ its nuclear programme</a>&nbsp;Besides, concerns have also been raised regarding the conduct of the exercise in West Bengal. Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo and Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Election Commission of deleting genuine voters during the electoral roll revision exercise. Opposition parties also challenged the exercise in court.&nbsp;Mamata is staging an indefinite protest against the deletion of names during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bengal.&nbsp;<h2>Process for CEC’s removal similar to that for SC or HC judge</h2>&nbsp;The procedure for the CEC’s removal is similar to that for removing a judge of the Supreme Court of India or a high court. The motion for CEC’s removal may be introduced in either House of Parliament and must be passed by a special majority, i.e., a majority of the total membership of the House and a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-passes-controversial-law-for-ethnic-unity-makes-it-must-for-minorities-to-learn-mandarin-1773328454387">China passes controversial law for ethnic unity, makes it must for minorities to learn Mandarin</a>&nbsp;If notices for such a motion are given on the same day in both Houses of Parliament, no committee will be constituted unless the motion has been admitted in both Houses. Once the motion is admitted in both Houses, a committee will be jointly constituted by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

As per rules, at least 100 MPs must sign a notice seeking the removal of the CEC in the Lok Sabha, while the required strength in the Rajya Sabha stands at 50. If submitted, this would mark the first time that a notice has been given seeking the removal of a chief election commissioner.

As many as 130 Lok Sabha MPs and 63 Rajya Sabha MPs from the opposition benches in the two Houses have signed a notice seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar from his post, sources said on Thursday. The notice is likely to be submitted in at least one of the two Houses on Friday, though it was not clear in which House it would be brought first, reported PTI, citing sources. An opposition leader said that MPs showed great enthusiasm in signing the notice, with several lawmakers coming forward to sign the notice on Thursday, even as the requisite numbers had already been achieved. According to rules, at least 100 MPs must sign a notice seeking the removal of the CEC in the Lok Sabha, while the required strength in the Rajya Sabha stands at 50. If submitted, this would mark the first time that a notice has been given seeking the removal of a chief election commissioner. Also Read: Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai The notice has been signed by members of parliament from all the INDIA bloc parties, the source said. Even MPs from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which is no longer officially part of the bloc, have signed the notice in a bid to group up against the government, said another source. Seven charges listed in notice against CEC Gyanesh Kumar The report suggested that seven charges have been listed in the notice against the CEC Gyanesh Kumar, ranging from “partisan and discriminatory conduct in office” to “deliberate obstruction of investigation of electoral fraud” and “mass disenfranchisement.” The Opposition parties have been repeatedly accusing the CEC of aiding the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on several occasions and blamed him after suffering electoral losses. The allegations intensified particularly after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise was started by the Election Commission in several states where elections are due in the coming days. Opposition leaders claim that SIR was aimed at benefiting the ruling party. Also Read: Israel says it struck Taleghan compound, where Iran ‘advanced’ its nuclear programme Besides, concerns have also been raised regarding the conduct of the exercise in West Bengal. Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo and Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Election Commission of deleting genuine voters during the electoral roll revision exercise. Opposition parties also challenged the exercise in court. Mamata is staging an indefinite protest against the deletion of names during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bengal. Process for CEC’s removal similar to that for SC or HC judge The procedure for the CEC’s removal is similar to that for removing a judge of the Supreme Court of India or a high court. The motion for CEC’s removal may be introduced in either House of Parliament and must be passed by a special majority, i.e., a majority of the total membership of the House and a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting. Also Read: China passes controversial law for ethnic unity, makes it must for minorities to learn Mandarin If notices for such a motion are given on the same day in both Houses of Parliament, no committee will be constituted unless the motion has been admitted in both Houses. Once the motion is admitted in both Houses, a committee will be jointly constituted by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

As per rules, at least 100 MPs must sign a notice seeking the removal of the CEC in the Lok Sabha, while the required strength in the Rajya Sabha stands at 50. If submitted, this would mark the first time that a notice has been given seeking the removal of a chief election commissioner.

193 opposition MPs sign notice seeking removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar from post

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced biennial elections to fill 37 seats in the Rajya Sabha, with voting slated for March 16 and results to be declared later the same day. The vacancies are distributed across 10 states: Maharashtra (7 seats), Odisha (4), Tamil Nadu (6), West Bengal (5), Assam (3), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (2), Haryana (2), Himachal Pradesh (1), and Telangana (2). The terms of the sitting members from these constituencies are due to end in April 2026.&nbsp;Several high-profile leaders are among those completing their tenure, including Sharad Pawar, Union minister Ramdas Athawale, Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Saket Gokhale of the Trinamool Congress, and Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh. These seats were last up for election in 2020. During that cycle, the Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies performed strongly in states such as Assam, Bihar, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-is-a-legacy-galgotias-university-vacate-stall-at-india-ai-summit-after-chinese-robodog-row-but-professor-defends-stance-1771399883270">'It is a legacy': Galgotias University vacate stall at India AI Summit after 'Chinese robodog' row but professor defends stance — What really happened</a>&nbsp;In Maharashtra, representation was divided among the BJP, the then-undivided Shiv Sena, the undivided Nationalist Congress Party, and the Congress. The DMK-led alliance dominated in Tamil Nadu, while the Trinamool Congress maintained its edge in West Bengal. In Odisha, the Biju Janata Dal secured key wins. As per the ECI’s timeline, the official notification will be issued on February 26. Candidates can submit their nominations until March 5, with scrutiny scheduled for March 6. The deadline for withdrawal is March 9. Voting will be conducted between 9 am and 4 pm on March 16, and counting will commence at 5 pm. The entire process is expected to conclude by March 20.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lunar-new-year-celebrations-in-nyc-transitioning-from-the-year-of-the-snake-to-the-horse-1771405168123/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/lunar-new-year-celebrations-in-nyc-transitioning-from-the-year-of-the-snake-to-the-horse-1771405168123/embed</a>&nbsp;The Commission has laid down specific voting guidelines, instructing electors to use only the pre-approved integrated violet sketch pens provided by the Returning Officer to indicate their preferences on ballot papers. No other writing instrument will be permitted. Observers will also be deployed to oversee the conduct of the elections and ensure adherence to established norms. The final results will hinge on the current strength of parties in the respective state legislative assemblies, potentially leading to minor shifts in the composition of the Upper House.

ECI announces Rajya Sabha polls for 37 seats across 10 states on March 16

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced biennial elections to fill 37 seats in the Rajya Sabha, with voting slated for March 16 and results to be declared later the same day. The vacancies are distributed across 10 states: Maharashtra (7 seats), Odisha (4), Tamil Nadu (6), West Bengal (5), Assam (3), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (2), Haryana (2), Himachal Pradesh (1), and Telangana (2). The terms of the sitting members from these constituencies are due to end in April 2026. Several high-profile leaders are among those completing their tenure, including Sharad Pawar, Union minister Ramdas Athawale, Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Saket Gokhale of the Trinamool Congress, and Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh. These seats were last up for election in 2020. During that cycle, the Bharatiya Janata Party and its allies performed strongly in states such as Assam, Bihar, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. Also Read: 'It is a legacy': Galgotias University vacate stall at India AI Summit after 'Chinese robodog' row but professor defends stance — What really happened In Maharashtra, representation was divided among the BJP, the then-undivided Shiv Sena, the undivided Nationalist Congress Party, and the Congress. The DMK-led alliance dominated in Tamil Nadu, while the Trinamool Congress maintained its edge in West Bengal. In Odisha, the Biju Janata Dal secured key wins. As per the ECI’s timeline, the official notification will be issued on February 26. Candidates can submit their nominations until March 5, with scrutiny scheduled for March 6. The deadline for withdrawal is March 9. Voting will be conducted between 9 am and 4 pm on March 16, and counting will commence at 5 pm. The entire process is expected to conclude by March 20. https://www.wionews.com/videos/lunar-new-year-celebrations-in-nyc-transitioning-from-the-year-of-the-snake-to-the-horse-1771405168123/embed The Commission has laid down specific voting guidelines, instructing electors to use only the pre-approved integrated violet sketch pens provided by the Returning Officer to indicate their preferences on ballot papers. No other writing instrument will be permitted. Observers will also be deployed to oversee the conduct of the elections and ensure adherence to established norms. The final results will hinge on the current strength of parties in the respective state legislative assemblies, potentially leading to minor shifts in the composition of the Upper House.

Election Commission of India schedules March 16 Rajya Sabha polls for 37 seats in 10 states; counting same day as several senior leaders complete terms

As the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) surged towards a decisive victory in the Bihar Assembly elections, securing leads in over 200 of 243 constituencies, the party launched a pointed attack on Congress and its leader, Rahul Gandhi. The NDA, which includes Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and smaller allies like Chirag Paswan’s LJP (Ram Vilas), is poised to secure a commanding majority well above the 122-seat threshold. Within the alliance, BJP leads in 91 constituencies (having already won 15), JD(U) in 84 (with 9 wins), LJP (RV) in 20 (1 win), and other minor allies in a few seats.&nbsp;The opposition, the Mahagathbandhan, trails far behind. The RJD leads in just 25 seats (with 4 victories), Congress in five (1 win), and the Left parties in a handful of constituencies. Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj, which initially opened leads in four seats, has fallen behind, signalling that its electoral debut may not yield meaningful gains.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Rahul Gandhi! Another election, another defeat! If there were awards for electoral consistency, he’d sweep them all. At this rate, even setbacks must be wondering how he finds them so reliably. <a href="https://t.co/y4rH6g62qG">pic.twitter.com/y4rH6g62qG</a>&mdash; Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1989211930234613770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>‘95 defeats in a row’: BJP targets Rahul Gandhi</h2>&nbsp;Amid the decisive NDA leads, BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya released a graphic highlighting Rahul Gandhi’s record of 95 electoral setbacks across India since he became a central campaigner for the Congress. The list spans nearly every major state and election cycle: Himachal Pradesh (2007, 2017), Punjab (2007, 2012, 2022), Gujarat (2007, 2012, 2017, 2022), Madhya Pradesh (2008, 2013, 2018, 2023), Maharashtra (2014, 2019, 2024), Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and multiple Northeast states.&nbsp;Malviya tweeted: “Rahul Gandhi! Another election, another defeat! If there were awards for electoral consistency, he'd sweep them all. At this rate, even setbacks must be wondering how he finds them so reliably.” The graphic detailed assembly and parliamentary contests where the Congress under Rahul Gandhi either lost power or failed to make significant gains, reinforcing the perception of a persistent inability to convert campaigns into victories.&nbsp;The BJP’s jab also highlighted Gandhi’s 16-day Voter Adhikar Yatra, covering 23 districts and focusing on alleged 'vote chori'. Despite this extensive mobilisation and media focus, Congress and the INDIA alliance failed to translate rhetoric into votes in Bihar, leaving the party with only six seats in the Mahagathbandhan tally.&nbsp;<h2>Counting trends vindicate NDA strategy</h2>&nbsp;Counting trends indicate a sweeping mandate for the NDA. Nitish Kumar’s governance record and BJP’s organisational machinery consolidated voter support across caste and regional lines. BJP leaders, including MP Sudhanshu Trivedi, mocked Congress further, invoking a Kabir couplet and suggesting that opposition leaders verify voter lists to confirm results.

Amid the decisive NDA leads, BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya released a graphic highlighting Rahul Gandhi’s record of 95 electoral setbacks across India since he became a central campaigner for the Congress

As the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) surged towards a decisive victory in the Bihar Assembly elections, securing leads in over 200 of 243 constituencies, the party launched a pointed attack on Congress and its leader, Rahul Gandhi. The NDA, which includes Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and smaller allies like Chirag Paswan’s LJP (Ram Vilas), is poised to secure a commanding majority well above the 122-seat threshold. Within the alliance, BJP leads in 91 constituencies (having already won 15), JD(U) in 84 (with 9 wins), LJP (RV) in 20 (1 win), and other minor allies in a few seats. The opposition, the Mahagathbandhan, trails far behind. The RJD leads in just 25 seats (with 4 victories), Congress in five (1 win), and the Left parties in a handful of constituencies. Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj, which initially opened leads in four seats, has fallen behind, signalling that its electoral debut may not yield meaningful gains.

Amid the decisive NDA leads, BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya released a graphic highlighting Rahul Gandhi’s record of 95 electoral setbacks across India since he became a central campaigner for the Congress

Bihar election 2025 results| ‘95 defeats for Rahul Gandhi’: BJP sharpens its attack on Congress after Bihar humiliation

The Election Commission of India on Tuesday released the final electoral list of Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections after completing the special intensive revision (SIR) process that became a controversy after opposition opposed it and led to a legal battle that is still ongoing. The Election Commission said the SIR exercise was intended to ensure only eligible voters remain on the electoral rolls, however, it drew intense criticism from the opposition which alleged vote theft and even targeted the poll body. The data of the electoral rolls has been uploaded on https://voters.eci.gov.in/ and voters can check their names on the portal.&nbsp;The draft of the electoral rolls was published on August 1 and was open for ‘claims and objections’ by individuals and political parties till September 1. The final voter list showed an increase in the number of registered voters compared to the draft list.&nbsp;Under the rules, voters can still apply for inclusion up to 10 days before the last date of nomination. Their names will appear in a supplementary list, and they will be added to the regular rolls for subsequent elections.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-gaza-deal-says-israel-won-t-occupy-gaza-no-one-will-be-forced-to-flee-1759170510614">‘Swadeshi product’: Union Minister Piyush Goyal logs into Arattai messaging platform</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Special Intensive Revision of Electoral Rolls in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> Successfully Completed<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ECI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ECI</a> thanks all the Electors of Bihar for making this exercise a Grand Success Final Electoral Roll published today; includes nearly 7.42 crore electors Read in detail: <a href="https://t.co/DQEaXv9njk">https://t.co/DQEaXv9njk</a> <a href="https://t.co/trQtBGKkVl">pic.twitter.com/trQtBGKkVl</a>&mdash; Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECISVEEP/status/1972998371242844551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>Opposition alleged ‘vote theft’, accused poll body &nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav raised questions on the timing of SIR just months before the elections and took out a ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra’ in Bihar, accusing the Election Commission of attempting to help the ruling coalition.Around 65 lakh voters had been removed from the draft rolls, including those who had died, permanently moved out of Bihar, or were registered as voters in multiple locations in the revision, which was carried out after 22 years. Petitions against the exercise are still pending in the Supreme Court.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-gaza-peace-proposal-leans-toward-israeli-side-says-senior-hamas-official-1759177686661">Trump’s Gaza peace proposal leans toward Israeli side, says senior Hamas official</a>&nbsp;Hearing a petition on September 8, the Supreme Court bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi said it believes that, being a constitutional body, the Election Commission is following the law and mandatory rules in carrying out the SIR process. However, it said that the entire process could be set aside if any illegality was found. The next hearing in the case is scheduled on October 7.&nbsp;WATCH: Iran State TV Faces Backlash for Blurring Finnish Foreign Minister’s Legs In UN Broadcast<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-iran-state-tv-faces-backlash-for-blurring-finnish-foreign-minister-s-legs-in-un-broadcast-1759236644343/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-iran-state-tv-faces-backlash-for-blurring-finnish-foreign-minister-s-legs-in-un-broadcast-1759236644343/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>EC to review poll preparedness, announce dates soon</h2>&nbsp;The tenure of the current government in Bihar is set to conclude on November 22, which means elections have to be held and results declared in time for the formation of a new government by then.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-government-lists-lawrence-bishnoi-gang-as-a-terrorist-entity-1759151566717">Canadian government lists Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a ‘terrorist entity’</a>&nbsp;Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Dr SS Sandhu and Vineet Joshi, will visit Bihar on October 4-5 to review poll arrangements. The team is expected to meet political parties, state officials and civil society representatives. Ahead of that, a meeting of poll observers is scheduled in Delhi on October 3.Sources suggest the election schedule could be announced as early as October 6 or 7.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar will visit Bihar on October 4-5 with Election Commissioners Dr SS Sandhu and Vineet Joshi to review poll arrangements. The Assembly election schedule could be announced as early as October 6 or 7, said sources.

The Election Commission of India on Tuesday released the final electoral list of Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections after completing the special intensive revision (SIR) process that became a controversy after opposition opposed it and led to a legal battle that is still ongoing. The Election Commission said the SIR exercise was intended to ensure only eligible voters remain on the electoral rolls, however, it drew intense criticism from the opposition which alleged vote theft and even targeted the poll body. The data of the electoral rolls has been uploaded on https://voters.eci.gov.in/ and voters can check their names on the portal. The draft of the electoral rolls was published on August 1 and was open for ‘claims and objections’ by individuals and political parties till September 1. The final voter list showed an increase in the number of registered voters compared to the draft list. Under the rules, voters can still apply for inclusion up to 10 days before the last date of nomination. Their names will appear in a supplementary list, and they will be added to the regular rolls for subsequent elections. Also Read: ‘Swadeshi product’: Union Minister Piyush Goyal logs into Arattai messaging platform

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar will visit Bihar on October 4-5 with Election Commissioners Dr SS Sandhu and Vineet Joshi to review poll arrangements. The Assembly election schedule could be announced as early as October 6 or 7, said sources.

EC publishes Bihar’s final voter list after wrangling over SIR, poll dates likely soon

The Election Commission of India (EC) on Sunday pushed back against demands for polling booth CCTV footage, saying sharing it would breach voter privacy. The comments came after Rahul Gandhi accused the Commission of turning a blind eye to what he called “vote chori (theft)”. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar took a tough stance at a press conference in Delhi, calling the Opposition’s remarks an “insult of the Constitution”.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-vote-theft-allegations-insult-of-the-constitution-cec-refutes-oppn-s-charge-of-bias-in-bihar-s-sir-1755423718094">‘Vote theft allegations an insult, few leaders misleading voters:’ CEC refutes Oppn’s charge of bias</a><h2>CEC hits back at Rahul Gandhi’s allegations</h2>Without naming the Congress MP directly, the CEC said, “The ‘chori’ charges are shots being fired at the voters by perching a gun on the EC’s shoulder.” He added, “We want to make it clear, that the EC has fearlessly stood by voters from across sections and religions, and will continue to stand by them like a rock.”<h2>Why machine-readable voter lists were not shared</h2>On the demand for machine-readable voter rolls, the CEC pointed to a 2019 Supreme Court ruling. “The Supreme Court has already held that it could breach a voter’s privacy,” he said. The Commission also cited instances where photos of voters were used in the media without their consent. Kumar warned that such actions put individuals’ rights at risk.<h2>The row over CCTV footage at polling booths</h2>Responding to the push for surveillance footage, Kumar said, “Should the Election Commission share CCTV videos of anyone’s mother, daughter-in-law, sister, or of anyone else?” He argued that with nearly 1.3 crore officials and agents monitoring elections, the process is already transparent. “In such a transparent process, can anyone steal votes?” he asked. The EC said it had seen no proof to back allegations of proxy or duplicate voting.<h2>Rahul Gandhi doubles down in Bihar</h2>Even as the EC briefed the press, Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally in Bihar, accusing the Commission of shielding irregularities during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls. “The entire country knows what the Election Commission is doing,” he told supporters in Sasaram. “Earlier, the country did not know how votes were being stolen. But we made it clear in the press conference how votes are being stolen. Whenever the theft is happening… we will catch the theft and show the people,” he added.The Commission had earlier asked Gandhi to provide proof under oath. At Sunday’s briefing, Kumar declared, “If within seven days I don’t get the oath, it means he is a liar and he blamed my voters as liars.” He also said false accusations “can scare neither the EC nor any voter”.

The Election Commission rejected demands for CCTV footage, citing voter privacy, and called Rahul Gandhi's vote theft claims an insult to the Constitution, defending its impartiality and commitment to voters.

The Election Commission of India (EC) on Sunday pushed back against demands for polling booth CCTV footage, saying sharing it would breach voter privacy. The comments came after Rahul Gandhi accused the Commission of turning a blind eye to what he called “vote chori (theft)”. Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar took a tough stance at a press conference in Delhi, calling the Opposition’s remarks an “insult of the Constitution”. Also read: ‘Vote theft allegations an insult, few leaders misleading voters:’ CEC refutes Oppn’s charge of bias CEC hits back at Rahul Gandhi’s allegations Without naming the Congress MP directly, the CEC said, “The ‘chori’ charges are shots being fired at the voters by perching a gun on the EC’s shoulder.” He added, “We want to make it clear, that the EC has fearlessly stood by voters from across sections and religions, and will continue to stand by them like a rock.” Why machine-readable voter lists were not shared On the demand for machine-readable voter rolls, the CEC pointed to a 2019 Supreme Court ruling. “The Supreme Court has already held that it could breach a voter’s privacy,” he said. The Commission also cited instances where photos of voters were used in the media without their consent. Kumar warned that such actions put individuals’ rights at risk. The row over CCTV footage at polling booths Responding to the push for surveillance footage, Kumar said, “Should the Election Commission share CCTV videos of anyone’s mother, daughter-in-law, sister, or of anyone else?” He argued that with nearly 1.3 crore officials and agents monitoring elections, the process is already transparent. “In such a transparent process, can anyone steal votes?” he asked. The EC said it had seen no proof to back allegations of proxy or duplicate voting. Rahul Gandhi doubles down in Bihar Even as the EC briefed the press, Rahul Gandhi addressed a rally in Bihar, accusing the Commission of shielding irregularities during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls. “The entire country knows what the Election Commission is doing,” he told supporters in Sasaram. “Earlier, the country did not know how votes were being stolen. But we made it clear in the press conference how votes are being stolen. Whenever the theft is happening… we will catch the theft and show the people,” he added. The Commission had earlier asked Gandhi to provide proof under oath. At Sunday’s briefing, Kumar declared, “If within seven days I don’t get the oath, it means he is a liar and he blamed my voters as liars.” He also said false accusations “can scare neither the EC nor any voter”.

The Election Commission rejected demands for CCTV footage, citing voter privacy, and called Rahul Gandhi's vote theft claims an insult to the Constitution, defending its impartiality and commitment to voters.

‘Should we share videos of mothers, sisters?’: Here's why EC is refusing to share CCTV footage amid Rahul Gandhi’s ‘vote chori’ charge

Delhi Election 2025 Date: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced schedule for assembly elections in the national capital on Tuesday (Jan 7). During a press conference at the plenary hall of New Delhi&rsquo;s Vigyan Bhawan, the top poll body announced that elections will be held in Delhi in a single phase on February 5. Results will be declared on February 8.
&ldquo;It's a single-phase election. Date of notification will be January 10. Last date of making nomination will be January 17, scrutiny on January 18 and withdrawal of nomination on January 20. Date of poll is February 5 and counting will be held on February 8. Entire election process after counting will be complete by February 10,&rdquo; said Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar.
<h2>CEC Rajiv Kumar addresses doubts over EVMs, electoral rolls</h2>
Earlier, CEC Kumar addressed questions about the credibility of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). &nbsp;
"There is no evidence of unreliability or any drawback in the EVM... There is no question of introducing a virus or bug in the EVM. There is no question of invalid votes in the EVM. No rigging is possible. High Courts and the Supreme Court are continuously saying this in different judgments... What else can be said? EVMs are foolproof devices for counting. Allegations of tempering are baseless.", he said.
He also rubbished claims regarding unauthorised deletion of electoral rolls, stressing that such an action can't be taken by the commission without Form 7. "Indian voters are extremely aware... Stories are going around regarding electoral rolls, even now. Almost 70 steps are there...in which political parties and candidates remain with us... All the claims and objections that come up - are shared with all the political parties. No deletion can be done without Form 7," he added.
<h2>Last elections under CEC Rajiv Kumar&rsquo;s watch</h2>
Delhi assembly elections would be the last polls to be conducted under Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar&rsquo;s watch, who is set to retire on February 18.
He is supposed to dispose all official formalities related to Delhi polls before he hangs his boots, which will allow his successor enough time before the Election Commission gears up for assembly polls in Bihar state.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-delhi-cm-kejriwal-promises-to-waive-inflated-water-bills-if-aap-returns-to-power-8591981">Former Delhi CM Kejriwal promises to waive 'inflated' water bills if AAP returns to power</a>
PM Narendra Modi&rsquo;s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are two major contenders in the polls, which will be held on Delhi&rsquo;s 70 assembly seats. BJP has pitted former MP Ramesh Bidhuri against Delhi Chief Minister Atishi from the Kalkaji seat. On Saturday (Jan 4), the &nbsp;BJP released its first list of 29 candidates; whereas the AAP has already announced its candidates on all 70 seats.
(More to follow)

Delhi Election Date: Delhi assembly elections would be the last polls to be conducted under Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar’s watch, who is set to retire on February 18.

Delhi Election 2025 Date: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced schedule for assembly elections in the national capital on Tuesday (Jan 7). During a press conference at the plenary hall of New Delhi’s Vigyan Bhawan, the top poll body announced that elections will be held in Delhi in a single phase on February 5. Results will be declared on February 8. “It's a single-phase election. Date of notification will be January 10. Last date of making nomination will be January 17, scrutiny on January 18 and withdrawal of nomination on January 20. Date of poll is February 5 and counting will be held on February 8. Entire election process after counting will be complete by February 10,” said Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar. CEC Rajiv Kumar addresses doubts over EVMs, electoral rolls Earlier, CEC Kumar addressed questions about the credibility of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). "There is no evidence of unreliability or any drawback in the EVM... There is no question of introducing a virus or bug in the EVM. There is no question of invalid votes in the EVM. No rigging is possible. High Courts and the Supreme Court are continuously saying this in different judgments... What else can be said? EVMs are foolproof devices for counting. Allegations of tempering are baseless.", he said. He also rubbished claims regarding unauthorised deletion of electoral rolls, stressing that such an action can't be taken by the commission without Form 7. "Indian voters are extremely aware... Stories are going around regarding electoral rolls, even now. Almost 70 steps are there...in which political parties and candidates remain with us... All the claims and objections that come up - are shared with all the political parties. No deletion can be done without Form 7," he added. Last elections under CEC Rajiv Kumar’s watch Delhi assembly elections would be the last polls to be conducted under Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar’s watch, who is set to retire on February 18. He is supposed to dispose all official formalities related to Delhi polls before he hangs his boots, which will allow his successor enough time before the Election Commission gears up for assembly polls in Bihar state. Also read: Former Delhi CM Kejriwal promises to waive 'inflated' water bills if AAP returns to power PM Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are two major contenders in the polls, which will be held on Delhi’s 70 assembly seats. BJP has pitted former MP Ramesh Bidhuri against Delhi Chief Minister Atishi from the Kalkaji seat. On Saturday (Jan 4), the BJP released its first list of 29 candidates; whereas the AAP has already announced its candidates on all 70 seats. (More to follow)

Delhi assembly poll date announced: Elections to be held on Feb 5, results on Feb 8

The Election Commission of India on Monday (Nov. 4) announced a change in the date of bypolls for 14 assembly constituencies of Kerala, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. Byelections scheduled for Nov. 13 will now take place on Nov. 20.

<h2>Why has the date changed?</h2>

According to reports, the bypolls date&nbsp;was deferred following requests from national and state parties, including INC, BJP, BSP, and RLD. The parties made the request so as to avoid low voter turnout due to ongoing festivities in the state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enforcement-directorate-files-charges-in-massive-pig-butchering-scam-in-indias-bengaluru-773069">Enforcement Directorate files charges in massive 'pig-butchering' scam in India's Bengaluru</a>

The Indian National Congress told the ECI that in Kerala, a significant portion of the electorate in the 56-Palakkad AC in Kerala will be engaged in the "Kalpathi Rastholsavam" festival, which is set to be celebrated from 13th to 15th November 2024.

Meanwhile, BJP, BSP and RLD said that in Uttar Pradesh, people will be celebrating Kartik Purnima.

In Punjab, people&nbsp;will be celebrating the 555th Prakash Parv of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji on November 15, for which an Akhand Path is to be organised from November 13&nbsp;onwards, said Congress.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission sacked DGP Rashmi Shukla in poll-bound Maharashtra after she faced allegations of a "clear bias" against the opposition from Congress.

The Congress, in a letter, had said that the senior IPS officer was allegedly involved in illegal "phone tapping".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-23-dead-as-bus-plunges-into-gorge-on-uttarakhands-pauri-almora-border-773099">At least 23 dead as bus plunges into gorge on Uttarakhand's Pauri-Almora border</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Is this a normal practice?</h2>

While this is not a regular practice, the ECI has previously adjusted&nbsp;polling dates to improve voter turnout and accessibility. For instance, in the 2022 Punjab State Elections, the polling day was shifted to accommodate the celebration of Shri Guru Ravidas Ji Jayanti. The same year, the Manipur Assembly election dates for&nbsp;both phases were changed because the first phase fell on a Sunday, which could have impacted voter participation.

Back in 2012, the Uttar Pradesh Assembly Elections were rescheduled&nbsp;due to Barawafat, a Muslim festival.

In 2013, the Mizoram Assembly polling and counting dates were also changed partly because of social events and since one of those days was a Sunday. More recently, the Rajasthan Elections dates in 2023 had to be altered due to the Devuthan Ekadashi festival, while Haryana made a similar change for Asoj Amavasya.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Election Commission of India on Monday (Nov. 4) announced a change in the date of bypolls for 14 assembly constituencies of Kerala, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh.

The Election Commission of India on Monday (Nov. 4) announced a change in the date of bypolls for 14 assembly constituencies of Kerala, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. Byelections scheduled for Nov. 13 will now take place on Nov. 20. Why has the date changed? According to reports, the bypolls date was deferred following requests from national and state parties, including INC, BJP, BSP, and RLD. The parties made the request so as to avoid low voter turnout due to ongoing festivities in the state. Also read | Enforcement Directorate files charges in massive 'pig-butchering' scam in India's Bengaluru The Indian National Congress told the ECI that in Kerala, a significant portion of the electorate in the 56-Palakkad AC in Kerala will be engaged in the "Kalpathi Rastholsavam" festival, which is set to be celebrated from 13th to 15th November 2024. Meanwhile, BJP, BSP and RLD said that in Uttar Pradesh, people will be celebrating Kartik Purnima. In Punjab, people will be celebrating the 555th Prakash Parv of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji on November 15, for which an Akhand Path is to be organised from November 13 onwards, said Congress. Meanwhile, the Election Commission sacked DGP Rashmi Shukla in poll-bound Maharashtra after she faced allegations of a "clear bias" against the opposition from Congress. The Congress, in a letter, had said that the senior IPS officer was allegedly involved in illegal "phone tapping". Also read | At least 23 dead as bus plunges into gorge on Uttarakhand's Pauri-Almora border Is this a normal practice? While this is not a regular practice, the ECI has previously adjusted polling dates to improve voter turnout and accessibility. For instance, in the 2022 Punjab State Elections, the polling day was shifted to accommodate the celebration of Shri Guru Ravidas Ji Jayanti. The same year, the Manipur Assembly election dates for both phases were changed because the first phase fell on a Sunday, which could have impacted voter participation. Back in 2012, the Uttar Pradesh Assembly Elections were rescheduled due to Barawafat, a Muslim festival. In 2013, the Mizoram Assembly polling and counting dates were also changed partly because of social events and since one of those days was a Sunday. More recently, the Rajasthan Elections dates in 2023 had to be altered due to the Devuthan Ekadashi festival, while Haryana made a similar change for Asoj Amavasya. (With inputs from agencies)

India's Election Commission postpones bypolls in Kerala, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh to Nov 20

With the announcement of assembly elections in India's Jammu and Kashmir political parties in the union territory are stepping up poll preparations. The election commission of India has announced assembly elections from September 18th. WION brings you ground report from Jammu & Kashmir.

J&K Elections: Political moves intensify ahead of September 18 polls

The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced the schedule for legislative assembly elections for Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana. The voting for the legislative assembly in Jammu and Kashmir assembly will be held in three phases, while Haryana will vote in a single phase. Watch in for more details!

BREAKING: Election Commission announces dates for Jammu and Kashmir assembly polls

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is visiting the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on August 8. The commission&nbsp;will visit Kashmir Valley first and later go to Jammu during their&nbsp;two-day visit. The election commission&nbsp;will most likely announce the election dates for the Union Territory, as the Supreme Court of India has given a deadline for holding the elections in Jammu and Kashmir before September&nbsp;30.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir will witness elections after a gap of 10 years, as the last assembly election was held in 2014. With the ECI&nbsp;visit to Jammu and Kashmir, the political parties in the region are gearing&nbsp;up their efforts in anticipation of the long-awaited Assembly elections. The visit of the ECI is pivotal for determining the timeline for the much-awaited polls.

Watch:&nbsp;J&amp;K: Grand revival of film tourism in Kashmir as J&amp;K's L-G inaugurates film conclave

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In the lead-up to the ECI's arrival, major opposition parties, including the Congress, National Conference (NC), and People's Democratic Party (PDP), have been actively engaging with their constituents.

The National Conference's vice-president Omar Abdullah has organised a series of public meetings aimed at galvanising support and preparing for a robust electoral performance. Abdullah has been meeting party members in Jammu, urging them to strengthen their resolve ahead of the elections.&nbsp;

"I think they have been visiting Kashmir over a period of time and I believe that it is a part of the protocol, and we are hopeful they will announce the dates of the election. Our delegates will meet the ECI team, and we will put forward our points of view and concerns. We are all geared up and we are ready for elections,"&nbsp;said Imran Nabi, NC's spokesperson.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjE6vH33OKHAxVPqFYBHfN8GGYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-kashmiri-pandit-houses-gutted-in-anantnag-community-members-allege-sabotage-police-starts-investigation-745553" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/five-kashmiri-pandit-houses-gutted-in-anantnag-community-members-allege-sabotage-police-starts-investigation-745553&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjE6vH33OKHAxVPqFYBHfN8GGYQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Five Kashmiri pandit houses gutted in Anantnag, community members allege sabotage; police start investigation</a>

Meanwhile, PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti is also engaging with party leaders and workers in Srinagar, ensuring that her team is aligned and ready for discussions with the ECI team. However, the party leaders say that it is time for ECI to announce polling dates, as they have made multiple visits to Jammu and Kashmir previously.&nbsp;

"The election commission in the recent notice mentioned the dates of all other places where the elections are to be held but with regard&nbsp;to Jammu and Kashmir, there was no clarity in the notice. The election commission is not visiting any other place but he is visiting here so I don't&nbsp;understand what the need for it is. Instead of playing with the heart and mind&nbsp;of Jammu and Kashmir, the election commission should come out very clearly and announce&nbsp;the dates as it's being done at other places. So, we don't know what the purpose of the visit is. Let us see what he has to offer once he is here,"&nbsp;said Mohit Bhan, spokesperson for&nbsp;PDP.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)&nbsp;leaders in Kashmir Valley have also supported the idea of holding elections in the UT as soon as possible. They will be meeting the ECI and demanding the same.&nbsp;

"Election Commission's&nbsp;visit is a direct message that elections are being held in Jammu Kashmir. The PM had also said they will hold elections soon, I am sure after visiting they will announce the dates of the elections. The Home Minister and Prime Minister have said that elections need to be held. We as BJP members also want the elections to be held as advised by the Supreme Court. We will be meeting the ECI and demand that assembly elections should be held,"&nbsp;said Altaf Thakur, spokesperson of&nbsp;BJP Kashmir.&nbsp;

The ECI's schedule for its visit includes a series of important meetings. Upon arriving in Srinagar, the team will first meet with recognised national and regional political parties. This will be followed by discussions with district commissioners and superintendents of police and later a meeting with the Chief Electoral Officer and senior police officials.

On August 9, the ECI team will meet with top officials, including the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, before heading to Jammu for further discussions with enforcement agencies and holding a press conference.&nbsp;

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is visiting the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on August 8. The commission will visit Kashmir Valley first and later go to Jammu during their two-day visit.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is visiting the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on August 8. The commission will visit Kashmir Valley first and later go to Jammu during their two-day visit. The election commission will most likely announce the election dates for the Union Territory, as the Supreme Court of India has given a deadline for holding the elections in Jammu and Kashmir before September 30. Jammu and Kashmir will witness elections after a gap of 10 years, as the last assembly election was held in 2014. With the ECI visit to Jammu and Kashmir, the political parties in the region are gearing up their efforts in anticipation of the long-awaited Assembly elections. The visit of the ECI is pivotal for determining the timeline for the much-awaited polls. Watch: J&K: Grand revival of film tourism in Kashmir as J&K's L-G inaugurates film conclave × In the lead-up to the ECI's arrival, major opposition parties, including the Congress, National Conference (NC), and People's Democratic Party (PDP), have been actively engaging with their constituents. The National Conference's vice-president Omar Abdullah has organised a series of public meetings aimed at galvanising support and preparing for a robust electoral performance. Abdullah has been meeting party members in Jammu, urging them to strengthen their resolve ahead of the elections. "I think they have been visiting Kashmir over a period of time and I believe that it is a part of the protocol, and we are hopeful they will announce the dates of the election. Our delegates will meet the ECI team, and we will put forward our points of view and concerns. We are all geared up and we are ready for elections," said Imran Nabi, NC's spokesperson. Also read: Five Kashmiri pandit houses gutted in Anantnag, community members allege sabotage; police start investigation Meanwhile, PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti is also engaging with party leaders and workers in Srinagar, ensuring that her team is aligned and ready for discussions with the ECI team. However, the party leaders say that it is time for ECI to announce polling dates, as they have made multiple visits to Jammu and Kashmir previously. "The election commission in the recent notice mentioned the dates of all other places where the elections are to be held but with regard to Jammu and Kashmir, there was no clarity in the notice. The election commission is not visiting any other place but he is visiting here so I don't understand what the need for it is. Instead of playing with the heart and mind of Jammu and Kashmir, the election commission should come out very clearly and announce the dates as it's being done at other places. So, we don't know what the purpose of the visit is. Let us see what he has to offer once he is here," said Mohit Bhan, spokesperson for PDP. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders in Kashmir Valley have also supported the idea of holding elections in the UT as soon as possible. They will be meeting the ECI and demanding the same. "Election Commission's visit is a direct message that elections are being held in Jammu Kashmir. The PM had also said they will hold elections soon, I am sure after visiting they will announce the dates of the elections. The Home Minister and Prime Minister have said that elections need to be held. We as BJP members also want the elections to be held as advised by the Supreme Court. We will be meeting the ECI and demand that assembly elections should be held," said Altaf Thakur, spokesperson of BJP Kashmir. The ECI's schedule for its visit includes a series of important meetings. Upon arriving in Srinagar, the team will first meet with recognised national and regional political parties. This will be followed by discussions with district commissioners and superintendents of police and later a meeting with the Chief Electoral Officer and senior police officials. On August 9, the ECI team will meet with top officials, including the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, before heading to Jammu for further discussions with enforcement agencies and holding a press conference.

India's poll body to visit Jammu and Kashmir, parties hopeful of election dates announcement

Puducherry Lok Sabha Election Results 2024:&nbsp;Indian National Congress' Ve Vaithilingam defeated BJP's A Namassivayam in the Puducherry Lok Sabha Seat.&nbsp;

On April 19, Puducherry&nbsp;voted for the lone Puducherry Lok Sabha seat. Voter turnout stood at 78.80 per cent.

The Assembly segment of Bahour recorded the highest voter turnout of 88.76 per cent and the enclave of Mahe recorded the lowest turnout of 65.11 per cent, reported&nbsp;Chief Electoral Officer P Jawahar.

<h2>Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections Result 2024: Full List of Candidates</h2>

As per the Election Commission of India's approved list of candidates, 7 leaders belonging to various political parties and 19 independent candidates were eligible to contest the election. This means a total of 26 candidates are there. Here's the list.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
	<thead>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">Sr.No.&nbsp;</th>
			<th scope="col">Candidate Name</th>
			<th scope="col">Political Party</th>
		</tr>
	</thead>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">1</th>
			<td>Alangaravelu</td>
			<td>Samaj Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">2</th>
			<td>G. Thamizhvendan</td>
			<td>Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">3</th>
			<td>
			A. Namassivayam
			</td>
			<td>Bharatiya Janata Party&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">4</th>
			<td>Ve. Vaithilingam</td>
			<td>Indian National Congress</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">5</th>
			<td>
			P. Sankaran
			</td>
			<td>Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">6</th>
			<td>
			K. Prabhudevan
			</td>
			<td>Republican Party of India</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">7</th>
			<td>Dr. R. Menaga</td>
			<td>Naam Tamilar Katchi</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">8</th>
			<td>M. Krishnamurthy</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">9</th>
			<td>Arunachalam</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">10</th>
			<td>Aradadi Posiyya</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">11</th>
			<td>E. Ananthavel</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">12</th>
			<td>R.Raja</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">13</th>
			<td>S. Kala</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">14</th>
			<td>K. Kishorkumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">15</th>
			<td>Couttane alias Dhivaneedhe</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">16</th>
			<td>Kollanjiappan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">17</th>
			<td>S. Sathish Kumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">18</th>
			<td>Nirmala Gopi</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">19</th>
			<td>S.Bakthavatchalam</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">20</th>
			<td>M. Manikandan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">21</th>
			<td>V.P.Manickam</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">22</th>
			<td>S.Masco</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">23</th>
			<td>Murugan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">24</th>
			<td>Ravindiran</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">25</th>
			<td>Ramadass</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">26</th>
			<td>P. Rajan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Puducherry Lok Sabha Election Result 2024:&nbsp;Constituency Wise Party-wise Winner List&nbsp;</h2>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Lok Sabha Constituency&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>Winner</td>
			<td>Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Puducherry</td>
			<td>Indian National Congress - INC</td>
			<td>
			V. Vaithilingam&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

Puducherry Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: Indian National Congress' Ve Vaithilingam defeated BJP's A Namassivayam in the Puducherry Lok Sabha Seat. On April 19, Puducherry voted for the lone Puducherry Lok Sabha seat.

Puducherry Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: Indian National Congress' Ve Vaithilingam defeated BJP's A Namassivayam in the Puducherry Lok Sabha Seat. On April 19, Puducherry voted for the lone Puducherry Lok Sabha seat. Voter turnout stood at 78.80 per cent. The Assembly segment of Bahour recorded the highest voter turnout of 88.76 per cent and the enclave of Mahe recorded the lowest turnout of 65.11 per cent, reported Chief Electoral Officer P Jawahar. Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections Result 2024: Full List of Candidates As per the Election Commission of India's approved list of candidates, 7 leaders belonging to various political parties and 19 independent candidates were eligible to contest the election. This means a total of 26 candidates are there. Here's the list. Sr.No. Candidate Name Political Party 1 Alangaravelu Samaj Party 2 G. Thamizhvendan Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam 3 A. Namassivayam Bharatiya Janata Party 4 Ve. Vaithilingam Indian National Congress 5 P. Sankaran Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist) 6 K. Prabhudevan Republican Party of India 7 Dr. R. Menaga Naam Tamilar Katchi 8 M. Krishnamurthy Independent 9 Arunachalam Independent 10 Aradadi Posiyya Independent 11 E. Ananthavel Independent 12 R.Raja Independent 13 S. Kala Independent 14 K. Kishorkumar Independent 15 Couttane alias Dhivaneedhe Independent 16 Kollanjiappan Independent 17 S. Sathish Kumar Independent 18 Nirmala Gopi Independent 19 S.Bakthavatchalam Independent 20 M. Manikandan Independent 21 V.P.Manickam Independent 22 S.Masco Independent 23 Murugan Independent 24 Ravindiran Independent 25 Ramadass Independent 26 P. Rajan Independent Puducherry Lok Sabha Election Result 2024: Constituency Wise Party-wise Winner List Lok Sabha Constituency Winner Party Puducherry Indian National Congress - INC V. Vaithilingam

Puducherry Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: Congress bags lone seat

Chandigarh Lok Sabha Election Results&nbsp;2024: In Chandigarh, the Indian National Congress's (INC) Manish Tewari won the race for the lone seat with a margin of&nbsp;2,504 votes. He polled&nbsp;21,6657 votes in the elections.

The Union Territory of Chandigarh&nbsp;voted in the last phase of India's Lok Sabha elections on June 1. Chandigarh&nbsp;voted in one phase for its lone seat. The&nbsp;City Beautiful registered a&nbsp;67.90 per cent voter turnout till 10pm on election day&nbsp;— down from&nbsp;70.61 per cent in the 2019.&nbsp;

<h2>Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections Results 2024: Full List of Candidates</h2>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Candidate</td>
			<td>Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Manish Tewari</td>
			<td>Indian National Congress</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ritu Singh</td>
			<td>Bahujan Samaj Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sanjay Tandon</td>
			<td>Bharatiya Janata Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Deepanshu Sharma</td>
			<td>Akhil Bhartiya Parivar Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Raj Prince Singh&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Super Power India Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rajinder Kaur</td>
			<td>Sainik Samaj Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sunil Thaman</td>
			<td>Jansena Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Kishor Kumar alias Banti Bhaiya</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Kuldip Rai alias Happy Sood Morind</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Pushpinder Singh alias Lovely Attawa</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Partap Singh Rana&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Piar Chand Alias Koundal</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Baljeet Singh Alias Laddi</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ex-Assistant Commandant Ranpreet Singh</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Mahant Ravi Kant Muni</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Lakhvir Singh Alias Kotla</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Vinod Kumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Vivek Sharma</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sunilkumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Chandigarh Lok Sabha Election Results 2024:&nbsp;Constituency Wise Party-wise Winner List&nbsp;</h2>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Lok Sabha Constituency&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</td>
			<td>Winner</td>
			<td>Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Chandigarh</td>
			<td>Manish Tewari</td>
			<td>
			Indian National Congress
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

(With inputs from agencies)

Chandigarh Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: In Chandigarh, the Indian National Congress's (INC) Manish Tewari won the race for the lone seat with a margin of 2,504 votes.

Chandigarh Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: In Chandigarh, the Indian National Congress's (INC) Manish Tewari won the race for the lone seat with a margin of 2,504 votes. He polled 21,6657 votes in the elections. The Union Territory of Chandigarh voted in the last phase of India's Lok Sabha elections on June 1. Chandigarh voted in one phase for its lone seat. The City Beautiful registered a 67.90 per cent voter turnout till 10pm on election day — down from 70.61 per cent in the 2019. Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections Results 2024: Full List of Candidates Candidate Party Manish Tewari Indian National Congress Ritu Singh Bahujan Samaj Party Sanjay Tandon Bharatiya Janata Party Deepanshu Sharma Akhil Bhartiya Parivar Party Raj Prince Singh Super Power India Party Rajinder Kaur Sainik Samaj Party Sunil Thaman Jansena Party Kishor Kumar alias Banti Bhaiya Independent Kuldip Rai alias Happy Sood Morind Independent Pushpinder Singh alias Lovely Attawa Independent Partap Singh Rana Independent Piar Chand Alias Koundal Independent Baljeet Singh Alias Laddi Independent Ex-Assistant Commandant Ranpreet Singh Independent Mahant Ravi Kant Muni Independent Lakhvir Singh Alias Kotla Independent Vinod Kumar Independent Vivek Sharma Independent Sunilkumar Independent Chandigarh Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: Constituency Wise Party-wise Winner List Lok Sabha Constituency Winner Party Chandigarh Manish Tewari Indian National Congress (With inputs from agencies)

Chandigarh Lok Sabha Election Results 2024 Full Winner List: Congress' Manish Tewari wins lone seat

Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Key Candidates:&nbsp;Puducherry which is the 29th most populous of the 36 states and Union Territories of India, and the third most densely populated Union Territory goes&nbsp;to the election in the first phase of the 2024 General Elections on Friday (Apr 19).

Here are the key candidates contesting in the Puducherry <a href="https://www.wionews.com/lok-sabha-election-2024">Lok Sabha elections</a>.:

<h3>Ve. Vaithilingam</h3>

Indian National Congress (INC) V. Vaithilingam is the incumbent Lok Sabha representative for&nbsp;the Union Territory of Puducherry in Lok Sabha. In 2019, he won the election with 56.27 per cent (444,981) votes and a victory margin of 1,97,025 votes.

The 73-year-old leader&nbsp;previously&nbsp;served&nbsp;as the 11th Chief Minister of Pondicherry from 1991 to 1996 at&nbsp;the age of 40, making him the second-youngest Chief Minister of the territory. He was also the 16th Chief Minister of Puducherry, from 2008 to 2011.

<img alt="Ve. Vaithilingam" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb29ac79-ffb9-46a0-957d-9c84c3789dd0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202024-04-18T093238.186.jpg" />

&nbsp;

<h3>A. Namassivayam</h3>

Arumugam Namassivayam or A. Namassivayam, a Bharatiya Janata Party politician, is also in the race. He is currently the UT's Home Minister with an additional charge of&nbsp;Electricity, Industries and commerce, Education, Sports and youth welfare and Sainik welfare.

Namassivayam was earlier a member of the Congress party and even served as the president of the Puducherry Pradesh Congress Committee. However, on January 25, 2021, he was suspended for his anti-party activities and soon after; he joined the BJP.

<img alt="A. Namassivayam" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14feea4c-9f09-4047-8a14-41827d7ad0c8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202024-04-18T092517.234.jpg" />

<h3>G Thamizhvendan</h3>

AIADMK candidate, G Thamizhvendan, belongs to a fishermen's community, which is the third largest in the UT after Vanniyars and Scheduled Castes.

Even though reports suggest that the election battle is between BJP's Namassivayam and Congress' Vaithilingam, AIADMK's Thamizhvendan may split votes in Karaikal, where fishermen face frequent attacks by the Sri Lankan Navy. Apart from this, AIADMK loyalists that make up a sizeable base in Puducherry may also vote for the popular 'two-leaves' symbol irrespective of the candidate.

<img alt="G Thamizhvendan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17e1f0af-dbba-4a1f-88af-27a01f4a6e58" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20wion%20-%202024-04-18T092841.941.jpg" />

<h2>Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Total candidates&nbsp;</h2>

As per the Election Commission of India's approved list of candidates, 7 leaders belonging to various political parties and 19 independent candidates will contest the election. This means a total of 26 candidates are there. Here's the list.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1">
	<thead>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">Sr.No.&nbsp;</th>
			<th scope="col">Candidate Name</th>
			<th scope="col">Political Party</th>
		</tr>
	</thead>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">1</th>
			<td>Alangaravelu</td>
			<td>Samaj Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">2</th>
			<td>G. Thamizhvendan</td>
			<td>Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">3</th>
			<td>
			A. Namassivayam
			</td>
			<td>Bharatiya Janata Party&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">4</th>
			<td>Ve. Vaithilingam</td>
			<td>Indian National Congress</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">5</th>
			<td>
			P. Sankaran
			</td>
			<td>Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">6</th>
			<td>
			K. Prabhudevan
			</td>
			<td>Republican Party of India</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">7</th>
			<td>Dr. R. Menaga</td>
			<td>Naam Tamilar Katchi</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">8</th>
			<td>M. Krishnamurthy</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">9</th>
			<td>Arunachalam</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">10</th>
			<td>Aradadi Posiyya</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">11</th>
			<td>E. Ananthavel</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">12</th>
			<td>R.Raja</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">13</th>
			<td>S. Kala</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">14</th>
			<td>K. Kishorkumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">15</th>
			<td>Couttane alias Dhivaneedhe</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">16</th>
			<td>Kollanjiappan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">17</th>
			<td>S. Sathish Kumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">18</th>
			<td>Nirmala Gopi</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">19</th>
			<td>S.Bakthavatchalam</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">20</th>
			<td>M. Manikandan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">21</th>
			<td>V.P.Manickam</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">22</th>
			<td>S.Masco</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">23</th>
			<td>Murugan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">24</th>
			<td>Ravindiran</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">25</th>
			<td>Ramadass</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<th scope="row">26</th>
			<td>P. Rajan</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<h2>When are Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024?</h2>

The Union Territory of Puducherry goes to election in the first phase of 2024 General Elections, scheduled for April 19, 2024 (Friday). On this day, 102 Parliamentary Constituencies in 21 states are scheduled for polling.

Nominations in Puducherry started on 20 Mar 2024, and ended on 27 Mar 2024. The last day to withdraw from the polls was 30 March 2024.

Results of the elections will be announced on 4 June 2024.&nbsp;

Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Key Candidates: Puducherry which is the 29th most populous of the 36 states and Union Territories of India, and the third most densely populated Union Territory goes to the election in the first phase of the 2024 General Elections on Friday (Apr 19).

Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Key Candidates: Puducherry which is the 29th most populous of the 36 states and Union Territories of India, and the third most densely populated Union Territory goes to the election in the first phase of the 2024 General Elections on Friday (Apr 19). Here are the key candidates contesting in the Puducherry Lok Sabha elections.: Ve. Vaithilingam Indian National Congress (INC) V. Vaithilingam is the incumbent Lok Sabha representative for the Union Territory of Puducherry in Lok Sabha. In 2019, he won the election with 56.27 per cent (444,981) votes and a victory margin of 1,97,025 votes. The 73-year-old leader previously served as the 11th Chief Minister of Pondicherry from 1991 to 1996 at the age of 40, making him the second-youngest Chief Minister of the territory. He was also the 16th Chief Minister of Puducherry, from 2008 to 2011. A. Namassivayam Arumugam Namassivayam or A. Namassivayam, a Bharatiya Janata Party politician, is also in the race. He is currently the UT's Home Minister with an additional charge of Electricity, Industries and commerce, Education, Sports and youth welfare and Sainik welfare. Namassivayam was earlier a member of the Congress party and even served as the president of the Puducherry Pradesh Congress Committee. However, on January 25, 2021, he was suspended for his anti-party activities and soon after; he joined the BJP. G Thamizhvendan AIADMK candidate, G Thamizhvendan, belongs to a fishermen's community, which is the third largest in the UT after Vanniyars and Scheduled Castes. Even though reports suggest that the election battle is between BJP's Namassivayam and Congress' Vaithilingam, AIADMK's Thamizhvendan may split votes in Karaikal, where fishermen face frequent attacks by the Sri Lankan Navy. Apart from this, AIADMK loyalists that make up a sizeable base in Puducherry may also vote for the popular 'two-leaves' symbol irrespective of the candidate. Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Total candidates As per the Election Commission of India's approved list of candidates, 7 leaders belonging to various political parties and 19 independent candidates will contest the election. This means a total of 26 candidates are there. Here's the list. Sr.No. Candidate Name Political Party 1 Alangaravelu Samaj Party 2 G. Thamizhvendan Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam 3 A. Namassivayam Bharatiya Janata Party 4 Ve. Vaithilingam Indian National Congress 5 P. Sankaran Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist) 6 K. Prabhudevan Republican Party of India 7 Dr. R. Menaga Naam Tamilar Katchi 8 M. Krishnamurthy Independent 9 Arunachalam Independent 10 Aradadi Posiyya Independent 11 E. Ananthavel Independent 12 R.Raja Independent 13 S. Kala Independent 14 K. Kishorkumar Independent 15 Couttane alias Dhivaneedhe Independent 16 Kollanjiappan Independent 17 S. Sathish Kumar Independent 18 Nirmala Gopi Independent 19 S.Bakthavatchalam Independent 20 M. Manikandan Independent 21 V.P.Manickam Independent 22 S.Masco Independent 23 Murugan Independent 24 Ravindiran Independent 25 Ramadass Independent 26 P. Rajan Independent When are Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024? The Union Territory of Puducherry goes to election in the first phase of 2024 General Elections, scheduled for April 19, 2024 (Friday). On this day, 102 Parliamentary Constituencies in 21 states are scheduled for polling. Nominations in Puducherry started on 20 Mar 2024, and ended on 27 Mar 2024. The last day to withdraw from the polls was 30 March 2024. Results of the elections will be announced on 4 June 2024.

Puducherry Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Puducherry to vote in Phase 1. Here are the key candidates

Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Schedule and Date:&nbsp;The Union Territory of Chandigarh is voting in the final phase of India's Lok Sabha elections on Saturday (June 1). 
 
The Election Commission of India (ECI) on March 16 announced the election schedule of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections for 28 states and eight union territories.

Rajiv Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) announced that polling will start in the country on April 19, lasting till June 1. The results will be announced on June 4.&nbsp;

Here are the important dates and facts about this year's Lok Sabha elections to be held in the Indian Union Territory of Chandigarh:

<h2>When is Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024?</h2>

The Union Territory of Chandigarh is holding elections in the final phase, on June 1.

<h2>How many phases Chandigarh will have?</h2>

Chandigarh, which is also known as the City Beautiful, will only vote in one phase.

<h2>How many Lok Sabha constituencies Chandigarh has?</h2>

Chandigarh itself is a Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency and covers the entire Union Territory.

<h2>Complete list of candidates for the Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024:</h2>

For the Union Territory of Chandigarh, the last date of filing nominations, as per the Election Commission announcement, was May 14. This year,&nbsp;BJP has decided to replace the incumbent MP Kirron Kher with Sanjay Tandon, who&nbsp;served as a Municipal Councillor in Punjab for 14 years and also won six assembly elections in Punjab.

Here are the candidate nominations for the Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Candidate</td>
			<td>Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Manish Tewari</td>
			<td>Indian National Congress</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ritu Singh</td>
			<td>Bahujan Samaj Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sanjay Tandon</td>
			<td>Bharatiya Janata Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Deepanshu Sharma</td>
			<td>Akhil Bhartiya Parivar Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Raj Prince Singh&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Super Power India Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rajinder Kaur</td>
			<td>Sainik Samaj Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sunil Thaman</td>
			<td>Jansena Party</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Kishor Kumar alias Banti Bhaiya</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Kuldip Rai alias Happy Sood Morind</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Pushpinder Singh alias Lovely Attawa</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Partap Singh Rana&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Piar Chand Alias Koundal</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Baljeet Singh Alias Laddi</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ex-Assistant Commandant Ranpreet Singh</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Mahant Ravi Kant Muni</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Lakhvir Singh Alias Kotla</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Vinod Kumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Vivek Sharma</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sunilkumar</td>
			<td>Independent</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-commission-for-women-demands-action-against-congress-leaders-for-derogatory-remarks-on-kangana-ranaut-704301">National Commission for Women demands action against congress leaders for derogatory remarks on Kangana Ranaut</a>

<h2>Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2019 - A Recap</h2>

In the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections, Chandigarh witnessed a 74.2 per cent voter turnout, with BJP's Kirron Kher securing victory over former Congress Minister Pawan Bansal.&nbsp;

This victory mirrored Kher's win in 2014 when the Bollywood actress garnered 231,188 votes compared to Bansal's 184,218.&nbsp;

Prior to Kher's tenure, Pawan Bansal, a Congress leader, had represented Chandigarh for three consecutive terms — 1999, 2004, and 2009.

<h2>Complete list of elected candidates in the Chandigarh Lok Sabha elections 2019:</h2>

In 2019, actress Kirron Kher, a Bharatiya Janta Party candidate, won the Chandigarh Lok Sabha constituency with a margin of 46,970 votes over major contender Pawan Kumar Bansal.

<h2>Facts About Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024</h2>

Chandigarh holds the unique distinction of being the capital of two Indian states: Punjab and Haryana.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/haryana-lok-sabha-elections-2024-schedule-phase-seats-candidates-all-you-need-to-know-703494">Haryana Lok Sabha elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates - All you need to know</a>

According to new data, Chandigarh currently has 647,000 registered voters, comprising 335,000 males, 312,000 females, and 33 third-gender voters.&nbsp;

Among these, 15,006 are first-time voters aged 18-19, while 4,799 are voters over 85 years old.

The largest group falls in the 30-39 age bracket, with 162,000 voters, followed by the 40-49 and 20-29 age groups with 138,000 and 125,000&nbsp;voters, respectively.&nbsp;

Chandigarh has a total of 614 polling booths, up from 597 in the last general election of 2019.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Schedule and Date: The Union Territory of Chandigarh is voting in the final phase of India's Lok Sabha elections on Saturday (June 1).

Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Schedule and Date: The Union Territory of Chandigarh is voting in the final phase of India's Lok Sabha elections on Saturday (June 1). The Election Commission of India (ECI) on March 16 announced the election schedule of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections for 28 states and eight union territories. Rajiv Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) announced that polling will start in the country on April 19, lasting till June 1. The results will be announced on June 4. Here are the important dates and facts about this year's Lok Sabha elections to be held in the Indian Union Territory of Chandigarh: When is Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024? The Union Territory of Chandigarh is holding elections in the final phase, on June 1. How many phases Chandigarh will have? Chandigarh, which is also known as the City Beautiful, will only vote in one phase. How many Lok Sabha constituencies Chandigarh has? Chandigarh itself is a Lok Sabha parliamentary constituency and covers the entire Union Territory. Complete list of candidates for the Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: For the Union Territory of Chandigarh, the last date of filing nominations, as per the Election Commission announcement, was May 14. This year, BJP has decided to replace the incumbent MP Kirron Kher with Sanjay Tandon, who served as a Municipal Councillor in Punjab for 14 years and also won six assembly elections in Punjab. Here are the candidate nominations for the Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024. Candidate Party Manish Tewari Indian National Congress Ritu Singh Bahujan Samaj Party Sanjay Tandon Bharatiya Janata Party Deepanshu Sharma Akhil Bhartiya Parivar Party Raj Prince Singh Super Power India Party Rajinder Kaur Sainik Samaj Party Sunil Thaman Jansena Party Kishor Kumar alias Banti Bhaiya Independent Kuldip Rai alias Happy Sood Morind Independent Pushpinder Singh alias Lovely Attawa Independent Partap Singh Rana Independent Piar Chand Alias Koundal Independent Baljeet Singh Alias Laddi Independent Ex-Assistant Commandant Ranpreet Singh Independent Mahant Ravi Kant Muni Independent Lakhvir Singh Alias Kotla Independent Vinod Kumar Independent Vivek Sharma Independent Sunilkumar Independent Also read | National Commission for Women demands action against congress leaders for derogatory remarks on Kangana Ranaut Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2019 - A Recap In the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections, Chandigarh witnessed a 74.2 per cent voter turnout, with BJP's Kirron Kher securing victory over former Congress Minister Pawan Bansal. This victory mirrored Kher's win in 2014 when the Bollywood actress garnered 231,188 votes compared to Bansal's 184,218. Prior to Kher's tenure, Pawan Bansal, a Congress leader, had represented Chandigarh for three consecutive terms — 1999, 2004, and 2009. Complete list of elected candidates in the Chandigarh Lok Sabha elections 2019: In 2019, actress Kirron Kher, a Bharatiya Janta Party candidate, won the Chandigarh Lok Sabha constituency with a margin of 46,970 votes over major contender Pawan Kumar Bansal. Facts About Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Chandigarh holds the unique distinction of being the capital of two Indian states: Punjab and Haryana. Also read | Haryana Lok Sabha elections 2024: Schedule, phase, seats, candidates - All you need to know According to new data, Chandigarh currently has 647,000 registered voters, comprising 335,000 males, 312,000 females, and 33 third-gender voters. Among these, 15,006 are first-time voters aged 18-19, while 4,799 are voters over 85 years old. The largest group falls in the 30-39 age bracket, with 162,000 voters, followed by the 40-49 and 20-29 age groups with 138,000 and 125,000 voters, respectively. Chandigarh has a total of 614 polling booths, up from 597 in the last general election of 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

Chandigarh Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Schedule, date, phase, seat, candidates, all you need to know

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday (May 25) released the constituency-wise voting data from the first five phases of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This comes amid a public discourse over the lack of official voter turnout data.

Coming out with the data, the ECI asserted that there was a pattern in the creation of false narratives, and that it was done with the mischievous design to destroy the legal validity of the electoral process. The electoral agency also asserted that the alteration of the number of votes polled was not possible.

<h2>Why did the ECI release data now?</h2>

The poll panel has come out with the absolute number of voters on its own. This comes a day after the Supreme Court of India refused to issue directions to ECI on the plea of an NGO&nbsp;— Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) — seeking polling booth-wise voter turnout data.

As per the PTI news agency, the ECI said it has decided to further expand the format of turnout data to include the absolute number of voters in every parliamentary constituency.&nbsp;

The absolute numbers are discernable parliamentary constituency-wise by all citizens by applying the turnout percentage to total electors, both already made available in the public domain, said the poll panel.

Here electors are those who are part of the electoral roll and eligible to voters and 'voters' refers to those that have actually cast their vote in an election.&nbsp;

While the EC had been issuing turnout percentage, there had been demands to make public the actual number of voters in every phase.

Previously, the Election Commission, hitting out at the plea of the petitioner, had said there are "certain elements with vested interests" who keep throwing baseless and false allegations, "creating an unwarranted atmosphere of suspicion" to discredit the Election Commission of India.&nbsp;

"It is most humbly submitted that there is a consistent malafide campaign/design/efforts to keep on raising suspicion and doubt in every possible manner and by misleading assertions and baseless," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday (May 25) released the constituency-wise voting data from the first five phases of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday (May 25) released the constituency-wise voting data from the first five phases of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. This comes amid a public discourse over the lack of official voter turnout data. Coming out with the data, the ECI asserted that there was a pattern in the creation of false narratives, and that it was done with the mischievous design to destroy the legal validity of the electoral process. The electoral agency also asserted that the alteration of the number of votes polled was not possible. Why did the ECI release data now? The poll panel has come out with the absolute number of voters on its own. This comes a day after the Supreme Court of India refused to issue directions to ECI on the plea of an NGO — Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) — seeking polling booth-wise voter turnout data. As per the PTI news agency, the ECI said it has decided to further expand the format of turnout data to include the absolute number of voters in every parliamentary constituency. The absolute numbers are discernable parliamentary constituency-wise by all citizens by applying the turnout percentage to total electors, both already made available in the public domain, said the poll panel. Here electors are those who are part of the electoral roll and eligible to voters and 'voters' refers to those that have actually cast their vote in an election. While the EC had been issuing turnout percentage, there had been demands to make public the actual number of voters in every phase. Previously, the Election Commission, hitting out at the plea of the petitioner, had said there are "certain elements with vested interests" who keep throwing baseless and false allegations, "creating an unwarranted atmosphere of suspicion" to discredit the Election Commission of India. "It is most humbly submitted that there is a consistent malafide campaign/design/efforts to keep on raising suspicion and doubt in every possible manner and by misleading assertions and baseless," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Election Commission of India releases constituency-wise voting data, slams critics

Abhijit Gangopadhyay, a former judge of the Calcutta High Court who is contesting Lok Sabha elections on a BJP ticket, was prohibited from campaigning for 24 hours on Tuesday by the Election Commission (EC) for making disparaging statements against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during an election rally.

Abhijit Gangopadhyay, a former judge of the Calcutta High Court who is contesting Lok Sabha elections on a BJP ticket, was prohibited from campaigning for 24 hours on Tuesday by the Election Commission (EC) for making disparaging statements against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during an election rally. His remarks, according to the Election Commission of India, violate the Model Code of Conduct, hence the ban will be in place from Tuesday (May 21) at 50 pm until Wednesday at 5 pm. The Election Commission took action following a complaint from the Trinamool Congress on Gangopadhyay's statements made against Banerjee at a public gathering in Haldia on May 15. The poll panel's decision also came a day after Gangopadhyay, BJP candidate for Tamluk Lok Sabha seat, replied to the Election Commission's show-cause notice about his "undignified" statement directed at Banerjee. The survey panel considered the statements to be "improper, injudicious, and undignified," implying a breach of the Model Code of Conduct. Also read: Ranveer Singh reveals his 93-year-old ‘rockstar nana’ braved Mumbai heat to cast his vote "The Commission...finds Shri Abhijit Gangopadhyay's statement a direct affront on the "erosion of status of women in India"; such statement that is outrightly condemnable when used in respect of any woman, not to speak of a senior political leader and holder of a constitutional position," ECI said. “The Commission painfully notes that fact that such abominable words have come from someone of Shri Abhijit Gangopadhyay's educational and professional background and hence does not remotely deserve any benefit of doubt,” it added. What did Abhijit Gangopadhyay say? At a public assembly in Haldia on May 15, Gangopadhyay said in Bengali, "Mamata Banerjee, how much are you being sold for? Your rate is Rs10 lakh; why? Because you are having your makeup done by Keya Seth. Mamata Banerjee: is she even a woman? I keep wondering sometimes." How did BJP respond to Election Commission's 24-hour ban? In response, BJP spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya stated that the Election Commission is conducting the election to guarantee that it is free, fair, and peaceful. “The poll panel has decided after feeling that Gangopadhyay’s comment was in bad taste and has hurt people’s sentiments. But the TMC has tried to misinterpret his comments. He is a dignified person and has fought for people’s rights,” he said.

EC censures BJP candidate Abhijit Gangopadhyay, a former HC judge, over undignified remarks on Mamata Banerjee

Reiterating the resolution of ‘Every Vote Counts’, the Election Commission, set up a special polling booth for a lone voter in Banej, in the Gir forest on Tuesday (May 07).

Since 2007, Mahant Haridasji Udasin, the only registered voter in Banej, which comes under the Junagadh Lok Sabha seat, has had a special polling station for himself. He serves as a priest at a nearby Shiva temple. A booth has been put up in the forest office, near the temple. A polling team was assigned to set up the booth and make all required arrangements for Mahant Udasin to exercise his right to vote.

The ECI promises to reach every voter, wherever they may be, since India is undergoing the biggest democratic exercise with Lok Sabha elections. Electoral laws stipulate that each voter must be no more than 2 km (1.2 miles) away from a polling place, and about 969 million individuals are eligible to vote this year.

Polling officers in Gujarat had to take a two-day bus trip into the Gir forest, the last remaining natural habitat of the Asiatic lion, to put up a polling station in Banej on Tuesday to guarantee the priest could vote. Each polling place must have two police officers and at least six poll workers, according to the electoral law. The Election Commission of India shared a post-vote picture of Mahant Haridasji Udasin with an inked finger on X with the caption, "A lone voter casts his vote at the unique polling station set up in the Gir forest, Banej, #Gujarat."

<h2>Gujarat Lok Sabha elections 2024</h2>

Over 55% of voters turned out until 5 pm in Gujarat's 25 parliamentary seats for the third phase of the Lok Sabha election on May 7. There were 265 candidates, including a Minister of State named Devusinh Chauhan and three Cabinet Ministers: Amit Shah, Mansukh Mandaviya, and Parshottam Rupala. The elections were held in 25 of the State's 26 seats since the incumbent BJP won the Surat seat unchallenged after eight out of nine qualified contenders withdrew their papers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Reiterating the resolution of ‘Every Vote Counts’, the Election Commission, set up a special polling booth for a lone voter in Banej, in the Gir forest on Tuesday (May 07).

Reiterating the resolution of ‘Every Vote Counts’, the Election Commission, set up a special polling booth for a lone voter in Banej, in the Gir forest on Tuesday (May 07). Since 2007, Mahant Haridasji Udasin, the only registered voter in Banej, which comes under the Junagadh Lok Sabha seat, has had a special polling station for himself. He serves as a priest at a nearby Shiva temple. A booth has been put up in the forest office, near the temple. A polling team was assigned to set up the booth and make all required arrangements for Mahant Udasin to exercise his right to vote. The ECI promises to reach every voter, wherever they may be, since India is undergoing the biggest democratic exercise with Lok Sabha elections. Electoral laws stipulate that each voter must be no more than 2 km (1.2 miles) away from a polling place, and about 969 million individuals are eligible to vote this year. Polling officers in Gujarat had to take a two-day bus trip into the Gir forest, the last remaining natural habitat of the Asiatic lion, to put up a polling station in Banej on Tuesday to guarantee the priest could vote. Each polling place must have two police officers and at least six poll workers, according to the electoral law. The Election Commission of India shared a post-vote picture of Mahant Haridasji Udasin with an inked finger on X with the caption, "A lone voter casts his vote at the unique polling station set up in the Gir forest, Banej, #Gujarat." Gujarat Lok Sabha elections 2024 Over 55% of voters turned out until 5 pm in Gujarat's 25 parliamentary seats for the third phase of the Lok Sabha election on May 7. There were 265 candidates, including a Minister of State named Devusinh Chauhan and three Cabinet Ministers: Amit Shah, Mansukh Mandaviya, and Parshottam Rupala. The elections were held in 25 of the State's 26 seats since the incumbent BJP won the Surat seat unchallenged after eight out of nine qualified contenders withdrew their papers. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Every vote counts’: Polling officials set up booth for lone voter in Gir forest

Delhi HC on Monday (Apr 29) dismissed a plea seeking direction to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to disqualify Prime Minister Narendra Modi for six years for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) while addressing a rally in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Delhi HC on Monday (Apr 29) dismissed a plea seeking direction to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to disqualify Prime Minister Narendra Modi for six years for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) while addressing a rally in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The plea alleged that PM Modi is seeking votes for his party - Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - in the name of religious deities and places of worship for the Lok Sabha elections. Also read: Deve Gowda's grandson Prajwal Revanna sex scandal: Details of alleged sexual abuse revealed The court said the petition is "thoroughly misconceived" and the court can't direct ECI to take a particular view on any complaint. Justice Sachin Datta rejected the plea. As quoted by Bar and Bench, the high court said, "The present writ petition is thoroughly misconceived. The petitioner presupposes that there has been a violation. It is not permissible for this Court to direct the ECI to take a particular view." Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: Delhi poll office denies claim that EC banned AAP's campaign song Watch this report on Deve Gowda's grandson: × The plea filed by advocate Anand S Jondhale mentioned PM Modi's speech he gave on April 9 in the city of Pilibhit. The lawyer alleged that PM Modi in his speech sought votes in the name of "god and place of worship" and "Hindu deities and Hindu place of worship as well as Sikh deities and Sikh place of worship". Jondhale stated in his plea, "That Respondent No.2 [Modi] said that he has constructed the Ram Temple. Respondent No.2 also stated that he developed Kartarpur Sahib Corridor and removed GST from material used in Langars served in Gurudwaras. The Respondent No.2 also said that he had brought back the copies of Guru Granth Sahib from Afghanistan." Jondhale added that PM Modi's speeches "have the potential to create hatred amongst voters on the line of caste and religion". (With inputs from agencies)

'Thoroughly misconceived': Delhi HC dismisses plea seeking ban on PM Modi from contesting Lok Sabha elections

Reacting to the cache of ammunition seized by CBI from West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, the ruling Trinamool Congress raised suspicions that the bombs could have been planted by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or National Security Guard (NSG) commandos.&nbsp;The allegation&nbsp;follows closely on the heels of a CBI raid on locations tied to individuals suspected in the January 5 assault on an Enforcement Directorate team in which several officials were injured in Sandeshkhali when they set out to raid TMC leader Shah Jahan Sheikh's residence.

The party in a letter to the Election Commission of India on Friday (Apr 26) evening wrote, "It is astonishing to notice that media personnel were already present during such the raid even before the state administration arrived at the spot."

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"At such point in time, it was already nationwide news that weapons had been recovered during the raid. There is no way of knowing with certainty, as to whether these weapons were indeed recovered during the search and seizure procedure or whether they were surreptitiously planted by the CBI/NSG," the letter further read.

With the Lok Sabha elections going on, TMC&nbsp;raised a complaint with the ECI alleging that the CBI is trying to thwart the campaign of the opposition parties with the help of other central agencies.&nbsp;

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After the Calcutta High Court instructed the CBI to investigate accusations of extortion and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali involving Sheikh Shahjahan, who after evading law enforcement for almost two months got arrested in March, the Bengal government has taken the matter to the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

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Lamenting further, TMC to the poll body wrote, "Your office has turned a blind eye while Central probe agencies continue to wreak havoc across the nation, especially during the election period."

"The BJP compromised the sanctity of the ensuing elections by spreading a sense of terror amongst the electorate, thereby attempting to gain an undue advantage..." it further added.

Among the weapons seized by CBI were three foreign-made revolvers, one Indian revolver, one colt official police revolver, one foreign-made pistol, one country made pistol, nine mm bullets- 120 nos,&nbsp;.45 calibre cartridges – 50 nos, 9 mm calibre cartridges-120 nos,&nbsp;.380 cartridges -50 nos, and&nbsp;.32 cartridges- 08 nos.&nbsp;

Reacting to the cache of ammunition seized by CBI from West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, the ruling Trinamool Congress raised suspicions that the bombs could have been planted by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or National Security Guard (NSG) commandos.

Reacting to the cache of ammunition seized by CBI from West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, the ruling Trinamool Congress raised suspicions that the bombs could have been planted by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or National Security Guard (NSG) commandos. The allegation follows closely on the heels of a CBI raid on locations tied to individuals suspected in the January 5 assault on an Enforcement Directorate team in which several officials were injured in Sandeshkhali when they set out to raid TMC leader Shah Jahan Sheikh's residence. The party in a letter to the Election Commission of India on Friday (Apr 26) evening wrote, "It is astonishing to notice that media personnel were already present during such the raid even before the state administration arrived at the spot." Also Read | Mamata Banerjee suffers injury after she fell while boarding helicopter "At such point in time, it was already nationwide news that weapons had been recovered during the raid. There is no way of knowing with certainty, as to whether these weapons were indeed recovered during the search and seizure procedure or whether they were surreptitiously planted by the CBI/NSG," the letter further read. With the Lok Sabha elections going on, TMC raised a complaint with the ECI alleging that the CBI is trying to thwart the campaign of the opposition parties with the help of other central agencies. Also Read | India: Army mobilised as massive forest fire engulfs Nainital's High Court colony After the Calcutta High Court instructed the CBI to investigate accusations of extortion and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali involving Sheikh Shahjahan, who after evading law enforcement for almost two months got arrested in March, the Bengal government has taken the matter to the Supreme Court. Watch | InterGlobe to introduce electric air taxis in India × Lamenting further, TMC to the poll body wrote, "Your office has turned a blind eye while Central probe agencies continue to wreak havoc across the nation, especially during the election period." "The BJP compromised the sanctity of the ensuing elections by spreading a sense of terror amongst the electorate, thereby attempting to gain an undue advantage..." it further added. Among the weapons seized by CBI were three foreign-made revolvers, one Indian revolver, one colt official police revolver, one foreign-made pistol, one country made pistol, nine mm bullets- 120 nos, .45 calibre cartridges – 50 nos, 9 mm calibre cartridges-120 nos, .380 cartridges -50 nos, and .32 cartridges- 08 nos.

TMC claims ammunition seized by CBI in Sandeshkhali could have been planted

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