West Bengal Governor K N Tripathi has convened a meeting of major political parties on Thursday in view of the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-clashes-erupt-between-bjp-workers-police-in-kolkata-226477">post-poll violence in the state</a>, sources in the Raj Bhavan said.

Tripathi has&nbsp;sent a letter to all four prominent political parties in Bengal, the Trinamool Congress, the CPI(M), the BJP and the Congress, urging them to attend the meet at 4 pm at the Raj Bhavan, they said.

The BJP and the TMC have confirmed that they would attend the meeting. The Congress and the CPI-M confirmed receiving the letter, but are yet to confirm their participation.

"We will go to the Governor's all-party meeting tomorrow. The governor is a constitutional body," a senior TMC leader said.

Welcoming the move, West Bengal BJP unit president Dilip Ghosh said the state government should have taken the initiative.

"We welcome the decision. We have received Tripathi's letter. We would be attending tomorrow's meeting," he told PTI.

Tripathi had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday and apprised them of the situation in the state.

When he was asked about the possibility of imposition of the President's rule in West Bengal, Tripathi had told reporters that there was no such discussion during his meetings.

The Centre had on Sunday expressed "deep concern" over continuing violence in West Bengal, and the Union Home Ministry had sent an advisory saying the "unabated violence" even after the Lok Sabha polls appeared to be a failure on part of the state government.

In the advisory, the Ministry of Home Affairs had also asked the state government to maintain law and order, peace and tranquillity.

Unhappy with the advisory, Banerjee stepped up attack on the Centre, saying the violence was a "planted game and the central government and (BJP) party cadre are trying to incite violence in West Bengal".

Post-poll violence has been reported from various places of West Bengal after the BJP secured 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state, just four less than that of the TMC.&nbsp;

West Bengal Governor K N Tripathi has convened a meeting of major political parties on Thursday in view of the ongoing post-poll violence in the state, sources in the Raj Bhavan said.

West Bengal Governor K N Tripathi has convened a meeting of major political parties on Thursday in view of the ongoing post-poll violence in the state, sources in the Raj Bhavan said. Tripathi has sent a letter to all four prominent political parties in Bengal, the Trinamool Congress, the CPI(M), the BJP and the Congress, urging them to attend the meet at 4 pm at the Raj Bhavan, they said. The BJP and the TMC have confirmed that they would attend the meeting. The Congress and the CPI-M confirmed receiving the letter, but are yet to confirm their participation. "We will go to the Governor's all-party meeting tomorrow. The governor is a constitutional body," a senior TMC leader said. Welcoming the move, West Bengal BJP unit president Dilip Ghosh said the state government should have taken the initiative. "We welcome the decision. We have received Tripathi's letter. We would be attending tomorrow's meeting," he told PTI. Tripathi had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday and apprised them of the situation in the state. When he was asked about the possibility of imposition of the President's rule in West Bengal, Tripathi had told reporters that there was no such discussion during his meetings. The Centre had on Sunday expressed "deep concern" over continuing violence in West Bengal, and the Union Home Ministry had sent an advisory saying the "unabated violence" even after the Lok Sabha polls appeared to be a failure on part of the state government. In the advisory, the Ministry of Home Affairs had also asked the state government to maintain law and order, peace and tranquillity. Unhappy with the advisory, Banerjee stepped up attack on the Centre, saying the violence was a "planted game and the central government and (BJP) party cadre are trying to incite violence in West Bengal". Post-poll violence has been reported from various places of West Bengal after the BJP secured 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state, just four less than that of the TMC.

West Bengal Governor convenes all-party meeting in wake of post-poll violence

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday installed a new statue of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar at the Vidyasagar college premises — the place where a similar statue was vandalised a month ago during a clash between the BJP and TMC workers.

India Watch: War between TMC & BJP heats up

Clashes broke out between BJP workers and police personnel in Kolkata on Wednesday during a massive rally organised by the party in protest against post-poll violence and an alleged attack on its workers and supporters.

As the BJP activists jostled to reach the Bowbazar crossing in the city, police resorted to firing tear gas shells and water cannons to disperse them. 
In retaliation, the saffron party workers raised slogans and hurled stones and bottles at the officers.

Some of the party workers were seen holding a sit-in demonstration in the area in protest.&nbsp;

BJP party workers, along with 18 newly elected MPs in the state, including BJP state president Dilip Ghosh, were marching towards the Kolkata Police headquarters in Lalbazar from the Wellington area of the city.

Bengal's BJP minder Kailash Vijayvargiya and senior party leader Mukul Roy also joined the march.

Post-poll violence has been reported from various places of West Bengal after the BJP secured 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state, just four less than that of the TMC.

Roy Tuesday blamed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the clashes in North 24 Parganas' Sandeshkhali on Saturday that claimed three lives and demanded an investigation into the violence by anti-terror probe agency NIA.

Banerjee had earlier accused the BJP of "spreading false information as part of a game plan to topple her government".&nbsp;

Clashes broke out between BJP workers and police personnel in Kolkata on Wednesday during a massive rally organised by the party in protest against post-poll violence and an alleged attack on its workers and supporters.

Clashes broke out between BJP workers and police personnel in Kolkata on Wednesday during a massive rally organised by the party in protest against post-poll violence and an alleged attack on its workers and supporters. As the BJP activists jostled to reach the Bowbazar crossing in the city, police resorted to firing tear gas shells and water cannons to disperse them. In retaliation, the saffron party workers raised slogans and hurled stones and bottles at the officers. Some of the party workers were seen holding a sit-in demonstration in the area in protest. BJP party workers, along with 18 newly elected MPs in the state, including BJP state president Dilip Ghosh, were marching towards the Kolkata Police headquarters in Lalbazar from the Wellington area of the city. Bengal's BJP minder Kailash Vijayvargiya and senior party leader Mukul Roy also joined the march. Post-poll violence has been reported from various places of West Bengal after the BJP secured 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state, just four less than that of the TMC. Roy Tuesday blamed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the clashes in North 24 Parganas' Sandeshkhali on Saturday that claimed three lives and demanded an investigation into the violence by anti-terror probe agency NIA. Banerjee had earlier accused the BJP of "spreading false information as part of a game plan to topple her government".

West Bengal: Clashes erupt between BJP workers, police in Kolkata

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday unveiled a bust of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar at the Hare School ground.

Trinamool Congress leaders, ministers in the West Bengal government, as well as some spiritual leaders, attended the event to mark the unveiling of social-reformer Vidyasagar`s bust.

As per the event schedule, the unveiled bust will now be taken from here to Vidyasagar college where it will be re-installed at the same place where a similar statue was broken in May during a political clash.

Moreover, the TMC chief will march to Vidyasagar College to participate in the re-installation event of the bust.

The bust of Vidyasagar, a 19th-century social reformer, was vandalised in clashes between BJP and TMC workers at Vidyasagar College during BJP president Amit Shah`s roadshow on May 14.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on May 16, promised to build a grand `panch dhatu` (traditional five-metal alloys of sacred significance) statue of Vidyasagar at the same spot where the old one stood before being vandalized. Banerjee, however, publically denied the proposal by asserting that her state has got enough money to make the structure.

According to West Bengal Information and Cultural Department, events related to re-installation of the bust today are being organised by the state`s Higher Education and School Education Department in collaboration with the committee for the 200th birth anniversary of Vidyasagar.

Vidyasagar, who has brought great reforms in the Indian society, is often touted as a man who was ahead of his time. Mostly recalled for his contribution in introducing concepts of widow-remarriage in the traditional society, he is referred to as a philosopher, writer, reformer, printer, and philanthropist.

He was most influential in campaigning for widow-remarriage and fought against many traditionalists to get an act passed in its favour. He invoked scriptures, did print campaigns and engaged in debates to get his point across.

It was with his continuous efforts that the Widow Remarriage Act was passed in July 1856 and the first such documented marriage also took place in Kolkata.

Vidyasagar was also instrumental in spreading awareness against the practice of polygamy prevalent in some sections of higher casts of society.

Before getting into social reforms, Vidyasagar had already devoted a large part of his life in refining the Bengali education sector.

As an educator at Sanskrit College, Fort William College and founder of the Metropolitan Institution, he is credited with introducing a fixed routine and the concept of weekly offs in the education system.

Metropolitan College was later renamed as Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar College, the place where its founder`s bust was smashed in May this year.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday unveiled a bust of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar at the Hare School ground. Trinamool Congress leaders, ministers in the West Bengal government, as well as some spiritual leaders, attended the event to mark the unveiling of social-reformer Vidyasagar`s bust.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday unveiled a bust of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar at the Hare School ground. Trinamool Congress leaders, ministers in the West Bengal government, as well as some spiritual leaders, attended the event to mark the unveiling of social-reformer Vidyasagar`s bust. As per the event schedule, the unveiled bust will now be taken from here to Vidyasagar college where it will be re-installed at the same place where a similar statue was broken in May during a political clash. Moreover, the TMC chief will march to Vidyasagar College to participate in the re-installation event of the bust. The bust of Vidyasagar, a 19th-century social reformer, was vandalised in clashes between BJP and TMC workers at Vidyasagar College during BJP president Amit Shah`s roadshow on May 14. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on May 16, promised to build a grand `panch dhatu` (traditional five-metal alloys of sacred significance) statue of Vidyasagar at the same spot where the old one stood before being vandalized. Banerjee, however, publically denied the proposal by asserting that her state has got enough money to make the structure. According to West Bengal Information and Cultural Department, events related to re-installation of the bust today are being organised by the state`s Higher Education and School Education Department in collaboration with the committee for the 200th birth anniversary of Vidyasagar. Vidyasagar, who has brought great reforms in the Indian society, is often touted as a man who was ahead of his time. Mostly recalled for his contribution in introducing concepts of widow-remarriage in the traditional society, he is referred to as a philosopher, writer, reformer, printer, and philanthropist. He was most influential in campaigning for widow-remarriage and fought against many traditionalists to get an act passed in its favour. He invoked scriptures, did print campaigns and engaged in debates to get his point across. It was with his continuous efforts that the Widow Remarriage Act was passed in July 1856 and the first such documented marriage also took place in Kolkata. Vidyasagar was also instrumental in spreading awareness against the practice of polygamy prevalent in some sections of higher casts of society. Before getting into social reforms, Vidyasagar had already devoted a large part of his life in refining the Bengali education sector. As an educator at Sanskrit College, Fort William College and founder of the Metropolitan Institution, he is credited with introducing a fixed routine and the concept of weekly offs in the education system. Metropolitan College was later renamed as Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar College, the place where its founder`s bust was smashed in May this year.

Mamata Banerjee unveils Vidyasagar's bust in Kolkata

The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) on Monday observed a 12-hour bandh in Basirhat, West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district on Monday to register their protest against the killings of two of their party workers.

While party supporters put up a rail blockade at the Bhyabla station, it was removed after two-and-a-half hours allowing movement of the stranded trains.

The streets of Basirhat mostly bore a deserted look with buses and cars remaining off the roads. Most stores, market complexes remained closed.

BJP workers were seen asking shop keepers to keep their stores closed.

The internet services in Basirhat remained shut for the second day today.

The party observed a ‘black day’ in several parts of the state with workers sporting a black badge in a bid to register their protest against the brutal killing of the party workers.

Party MP from Hooghly constituency Locket Chatterjee led a protest march in Kolkata.

While addressing an administrative meeting at the state secretariat, Nabanna, the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee blamed the BJP for stirring violence in the state. She asked the police to take immediate and stern action in cases of violence.&nbsp;

“The unrest in Bengal is being stirred by the BJP. Remember if there are riots in the state, Centre is equally to be blamed. The problem is, I am the most vocal leader in the country and hence they are trying to muzzle my voice. But, they cannot do that,” Banerjee said, adding, “Have asked the police to not allow hooliganism in the state and advised them to take strict action.”

On the other hand, senior BJP leader Mukul Roy demanded Mamata Banerjee’s resignation from the post of a police minister. “Police administration has completely collapsed in the state. Even TMC MLAs are complaining. Banerjee has failed in maintaining the law and order in the state, she should immediately resign from the post of the police minister,” Roy said.

On Saturday, massive clashes erupted between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) workers in Sandeshkhali in Basirhat located in North 24 parganas district of West Bengal, claiming as many as three lives. Of these three, two are BJP workers and one is a TMC worker.

The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) on Monday observed a 12-hour bandh in Basirhat, West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district on Monday to register their protest against the killings of two of their party workers.

The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) on Monday observed a 12-hour bandh in Basirhat, West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district on Monday to register their protest against the killings of two of their party workers. While party supporters put up a rail blockade at the Bhyabla station, it was removed after two-and-a-half hours allowing movement of the stranded trains. The streets of Basirhat mostly bore a deserted look with buses and cars remaining off the roads. Most stores, market complexes remained closed. BJP workers were seen asking shop keepers to keep their stores closed. The internet services in Basirhat remained shut for the second day today. The party observed a ‘black day’ in several parts of the state with workers sporting a black badge in a bid to register their protest against the brutal killing of the party workers. Party MP from Hooghly constituency Locket Chatterjee led a protest march in Kolkata. While addressing an administrative meeting at the state secretariat, Nabanna, the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee blamed the BJP for stirring violence in the state. She asked the police to take immediate and stern action in cases of violence. “The unrest in Bengal is being stirred by the BJP. Remember if there are riots in the state, Centre is equally to be blamed. The problem is, I am the most vocal leader in the country and hence they are trying to muzzle my voice. But, they cannot do that,” Banerjee said, adding, “Have asked the police to not allow hooliganism in the state and advised them to take strict action.” On the other hand, senior BJP leader Mukul Roy demanded Mamata Banerjee’s resignation from the post of a police minister. “Police administration has completely collapsed in the state. Even TMC MLAs are complaining. Banerjee has failed in maintaining the law and order in the state, she should immediately resign from the post of the police minister,” Roy said. On Saturday, massive clashes erupted between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) workers in Sandeshkhali in Basirhat located in North 24 parganas district of West Bengal, claiming as many as three lives. Of these three, two are BJP workers and one is a TMC worker.

Normal life hit in Basirhat, West Bengal as BJP observes 12-hour bandh

West Bengal government has written a letter to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs stating that the law and order situation was "under control" in the state.

West Bengal Chief Secretary Malay Kumar De has informed the ministry that "firm and appropriate actions" were initiated in case of a few "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-calls-a-12-hour-bandh-in-basirhat-west-bengal-over-death-of-party-workers-225779">stray post-poll clashes" in the state</a>.

In the letter, De has claimed that the clashes were perpetrated by "some anti-social elements".

"...while there have been a few stray post-poll clashes in the state perpetrated by some anti-social elements, the law enforcement authorities have been taking firm and appropriate actions in all such cases without any delay," the letter dated June 9 reads.

"The situation is under control and it may not be construed under any circumstance to be a failure on the part of law enforcement machinery of the state to maintain the rule of law and impute confidence among the people," it continued.

Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government's statement came after Union Ministry of Home Affairs issued an advisory to the state government expressing "deep concern" over the death of people in a post-poll clash that ensued between BJP and TMC workers.

In the advisory to the state government, MHA has stated,&nbsp;"It is strongly advised to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to maintain law and order, peace and public tranquillity. It is also requested to take strict action against officials found delinquent in the discharge of their duty."

The clash between the two factions was triggered by the removal of BJP's flag in Sandeshkhali Assembly constituency of North 24 Parganas on Saturday.

BJP leader Mukul Roy has alleged that four workers of his party were shot dead by the members of TMC.

State's ruling party, on the other hand, has alleged that a member of their party has also died in the clashes.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has sought a report from the state government on the incidents of violence, said sources.&nbsp;

West Bengal government has written a letter to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs stating that the law and order situation was "under control" in the state. West Bengal Chief Secretary Malay Kumar De has informed the ministry that "firm and appropriate actions" were initiated in case of a few "stray post-poll clashes" in the state.

West Bengal government has written a letter to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs stating that the law and order situation was "under control" in the state. West Bengal Chief Secretary Malay Kumar De has informed the ministry that "firm and appropriate actions" were initiated in case of a few "stray post-poll clashes" in the state. In the letter, De has claimed that the clashes were perpetrated by "some anti-social elements". "...while there have been a few stray post-poll clashes in the state perpetrated by some anti-social elements, the law enforcement authorities have been taking firm and appropriate actions in all such cases without any delay," the letter dated June 9 reads. "The situation is under control and it may not be construed under any circumstance to be a failure on the part of law enforcement machinery of the state to maintain the rule of law and impute confidence among the people," it continued. Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government's statement came after Union Ministry of Home Affairs issued an advisory to the state government expressing "deep concern" over the death of people in a post-poll clash that ensued between BJP and TMC workers. In the advisory to the state government, MHA has stated, "It is strongly advised to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to maintain law and order, peace and public tranquillity. It is also requested to take strict action against officials found delinquent in the discharge of their duty." The clash between the two factions was triggered by the removal of BJP's flag in Sandeshkhali Assembly constituency of North 24 Parganas on Saturday. BJP leader Mukul Roy has alleged that four workers of his party were shot dead by the members of TMC. State's ruling party, on the other hand, has alleged that a member of their party has also died in the clashes. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has sought a report from the state government on the incidents of violence, said sources.

Situation 'under control', West Bengal government answers Home Ministry's advisory on violence

West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi arrived in New Delhi on Monday to meet PM Modi. Tripathi told media that he was not able to wish the prime minister personally on the day of his oath-taking ceremony, adding that this was a courtesy visit.&nbsp;

"My visit to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister was a courtesy call. I just informed them of the general situation in the state," Tripathi said.&nbsp;

"I had asked to meet the PM either on June 9-10 or June 14-15 as I couldn't wish him personally on the swearing-in day, it's a courtesy visit," Tripathi was quoted by news agency ANI. Tripathi also met Home Minister Amit Shah. &nbsp;

Tripathi's visit comes amid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-under-control-west-bengal-government-answers-home-ministrys-advisory-on-violence-225809">political turbulence and violence in West Bengal</a>.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi: My visit to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister was a courtesy call. I just informed them of the general situation in the state. <a href="https://t.co/UgH8crgelS">pic.twitter.com/UgH8crgelS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1137995819376758784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I have asked time from the Prime Minister for courtesy meeting six days ago. He has given time on June 10. Meanwhile, an incident took place on June 8. I will inform him but mainly this is a courtesy meeting," Tripathi told reporters before leaving from Bangla Guest House.

This comes a day after the Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday issued an advisory to the state government expressing "deep concern" over the death of people in a post-poll clash that ensued between BJP and TMC workers.

In the advisory to the state government, MHA has stated, "It is strongly advised to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to maintain law and order, peace and public tranquillity. It is also requested to take strict action against officials found delinquent in the discharge of their duty."

In a letter to the Home Ministry, the West Bengal government has stated that the law and order situation was "under control" in the state.

"...while there have been a few stray post-poll clashes in the state perpetrated by some anti-social elements, the law enforcement authorities have been taking firm and appropriate actions in all such cases without any delay," the letter dated June 9 reads.

&nbsp;

West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi arrived in New Delhi on Monday to meet PM Modi. Tripathi told media that he was not able to wish the prime minister personally on the day of his oath-taking ceremony, adding that this was a courtesy visit.

West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi arrived in New Delhi on Monday to meet PM Modi. Tripathi told media that he was not able to wish the prime minister personally on the day of his oath-taking ceremony, adding that this was a courtesy visit. "My visit to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister was a courtesy call. I just informed them of the general situation in the state," Tripathi said. "I had asked to meet the PM either on June 9-10 or June 14-15 as I couldn't wish him personally on the swearing-in day, it's a courtesy visit," Tripathi was quoted by news agency ANI. Tripathi also met Home Minister Amit Shah. Tripathi's visit comes amid political turbulence and violence in West Bengal. West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi: My visit to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister was a courtesy call. I just informed them of the general situation in the state. pic.twitter.com/UgH8crgelS — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2019 × "I have asked time from the Prime Minister for courtesy meeting six days ago. He has given time on June 10. Meanwhile, an incident took place on June 8. I will inform him but mainly this is a courtesy meeting," Tripathi told reporters before leaving from Bangla Guest House. This comes a day after the Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday issued an advisory to the state government expressing "deep concern" over the death of people in a post-poll clash that ensued between BJP and TMC workers. In the advisory to the state government, MHA has stated, "It is strongly advised to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to maintain law and order, peace and public tranquillity. It is also requested to take strict action against officials found delinquent in the discharge of their duty." In a letter to the Home Ministry, the West Bengal government has stated that the law and order situation was "under control" in the state. "...while there have been a few stray post-poll clashes in the state perpetrated by some anti-social elements, the law enforcement authorities have been taking firm and appropriate actions in all such cases without any delay," the letter dated June 9 reads.

It was a courtesy call, informed about general situation in state: West Bengal Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi meets PM Modi

Tension prevailed on Sunday in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-5-dead-as-bjp-trinamool-congress-clash-in-basirhat-225589">strife-affected Sandeshkhali in West Bengal</a>'s North 24 Parganas, with the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool Congress accusing each other of orchestrating Saturday's violence that allegedly claimed at least four lives.

A huge contingent of police officers has been deployed in the village and its surrounding areas under the Nyajat police station in the district, where the violence broke out in the evening, to prevent the tension from escalating.

While the BJP leadership on Sunday claimed that five of its supporters were killed in the clash, the TMC said that six of its workers were missing. 
The bodies of one TMC worker and two BJP supporters have been identified by family members at a local hospital.

As of Sunday morning, police are carrying out search operations to trace the persons alleged to have gone missing in what has been deemed as the "worst political violence" following the 2019 general election.

State BJP general secretary Sayantan Basu Saturday said three of his party workers -- Sukanta Mondal, Pradip Mondal and Shankar Mondal -- have been shot dead, while state minister Jyotipriyo Mallick maintained that TMC worker Kayoom Mollah has been killed in the clash.

In claims and counter-claims over the political fallout, both the parties have stated that several of their workers have gone missing.

Continuing his tirade against the ruling party, BJP leader Mukul Roy, who is scheduled to lead a seven-member delegation of party MPs to the violence-hit area on Sunday, accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of instigating political strife in Bengal through her speeches and meetings.

He also maintained that "five members of the saffron party were killed and several others went missing" during the clashes at Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district.

Speaking to reporters at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport here on his arrival from Delhi, Roy alleged that local TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh has masterminded the attack on BJP workers.

The state Food and Supplies minister, on the other hand, said his party apprehended that the "missing workers" might have been killed.

Mallick, who is also leading a party delegation comprising state ministers to Sandeshkhali, told PTI, "We apprehend that six TMC workers have been killed and their bodies dumped in the water."

He alleged that it was the BJP workers who had attacked TMC supporters during a procession, and accused the saffron party of bringing in outsiders to foment trouble.

The minister also asserted that the BJP workers were killed from bullets fired by their "own people" and denied that TMC men were involved in their deaths.

Contending that his party wants "peace to prevail", Mallick said that he has asked his partymen not to hold any meeting or procession without the district leadership's permission.

Sources in the TMC and the BJP had claimed on Saturday that the clashes broke out over the removal of saffron party flags in the area.

Local people said several shops and houses were vandalised during the violence, which broke out during a TMC procession.

Tension prevailed on Sunday in strife-affected Sandeshkhali in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas, with the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool Congress accusing each other of orchestrating Saturday's violence that allegedly claimed at least four lives.

Tension prevailed on Sunday in strife-affected Sandeshkhali in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas, with the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool Congress accusing each other of orchestrating Saturday's violence that allegedly claimed at least four lives. A huge contingent of police officers has been deployed in the village and its surrounding areas under the Nyajat police station in the district, where the violence broke out in the evening, to prevent the tension from escalating. While the BJP leadership on Sunday claimed that five of its supporters were killed in the clash, the TMC said that six of its workers were missing. The bodies of one TMC worker and two BJP supporters have been identified by family members at a local hospital. As of Sunday morning, police are carrying out search operations to trace the persons alleged to have gone missing in what has been deemed as the "worst political violence" following the 2019 general election. State BJP general secretary Sayantan Basu Saturday said three of his party workers -- Sukanta Mondal, Pradip Mondal and Shankar Mondal -- have been shot dead, while state minister Jyotipriyo Mallick maintained that TMC worker Kayoom Mollah has been killed in the clash. In claims and counter-claims over the political fallout, both the parties have stated that several of their workers have gone missing. Continuing his tirade against the ruling party, BJP leader Mukul Roy, who is scheduled to lead a seven-member delegation of party MPs to the violence-hit area on Sunday, accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of instigating political strife in Bengal through her speeches and meetings. He also maintained that "five members of the saffron party were killed and several others went missing" during the clashes at Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district. Speaking to reporters at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport here on his arrival from Delhi, Roy alleged that local TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh has masterminded the attack on BJP workers. The state Food and Supplies minister, on the other hand, said his party apprehended that the "missing workers" might have been killed. Mallick, who is also leading a party delegation comprising state ministers to Sandeshkhali, told PTI, "We apprehend that six TMC workers have been killed and their bodies dumped in the water." He alleged that it was the BJP workers who had attacked TMC supporters during a procession, and accused the saffron party of bringing in outsiders to foment trouble. The minister also asserted that the BJP workers were killed from bullets fired by their "own people" and denied that TMC men were involved in their deaths. Contending that his party wants "peace to prevail", Mallick said that he has asked his partymen not to hold any meeting or procession without the district leadership's permission. Sources in the TMC and the BJP had claimed on Saturday that the clashes broke out over the removal of saffron party flags in the area. Local people said several shops and houses were vandalised during the violence, which broke out during a TMC procession.

Tension prevails in West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, police looking for 'missing' persons

Mamata Banerjee discusses Poll defeat with Prashant Kishor. Prashant Kishor is a noted Poll Strategist. Kishor worked on PM Modi's 2012, 2014 campaigns. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Mamata Reaches To Prashant Kishor After Poll Defeat

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/shiv-sena-slams-mamata-banerjee-for-declining-invitation-for-modis-swearing-in-ceremony-222634">inability to attend the scheduled Niti Aayog meeting</a> on June 15, saying it was "fruitless" as the body does not have the power to support state plans.

"Given the fact that the Niti Aayog has no financial powers and the power to support state plans it is fruitless for me to attend the meeting of a body that is bereft of any financial powers," Banerjee said in a letter to the prime minister.

The chief minister also suggested that focus should be shifted to the Inter-State Council (ISC) to deepen cooperative federalism and strengthen federal polity.

"The experience of last four-and-half years we had with Niti Aayog brings me back to my earlier suggestion to you that we focus on Inter-State Council constituted under Article 263 of Constitution, with appropriate modifications to enable ISC to discharge its augmented range of functions as the nodal entity of the country," she said.

"This will deepen cooperative federalism and strengthen federal polity. May I also reiterate that the National Development Council, which has been a quiet burial, may also be subsumed within the broadened constitutional body of the Inter-State Council," the chief minister said.

Modi is set to chair the fifth meeting of the Niti Aayog's Governing Council on June 15 to discuss various issues regarding the country's development.

Earlier too, Banerjee had skipped meetings of the policy think-tank, expressing displeasure over the dissolution of the Planning Commission and creation of a new structure.

She had sent West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra to represent the state at the meeting.

In her letter, Banerjee said the formation of Niti Aayog was unilaterally announced without any discussion with chief ministers.

She cited examples of statements made by Niti Aayog officials and a former Union minister stressing the need to give the think-tank the power to allocate funds, as part of the efforts to address regional imbalances.

Banerjee's decision of not attending Niti Aayog meeting comes amid heightened political tussle between the TMC and the Bharatiya Janata Party in West Bengal.

With the saffron party bagging 18 out of 42 Lok Sabha seats in the general elections, its leaders have asserted that they would overthrow the Trinamool Congress government in the 2021 assembly polls.

The TMC, which had won 34 seats in 2014, was able to secure 22 seats this time.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing her inability to attend the scheduled Niti Aayog meeting on June 15, saying it was "fruitless" as the body does not have the power to support state plans.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing her inability to attend the scheduled Niti Aayog meeting on June 15, saying it was "fruitless" as the body does not have the power to support state plans. "Given the fact that the Niti Aayog has no financial powers and the power to support state plans it is fruitless for me to attend the meeting of a body that is bereft of any financial powers," Banerjee said in a letter to the prime minister. The chief minister also suggested that focus should be shifted to the Inter-State Council (ISC) to deepen cooperative federalism and strengthen federal polity. "The experience of last four-and-half years we had with Niti Aayog brings me back to my earlier suggestion to you that we focus on Inter-State Council constituted under Article 263 of Constitution, with appropriate modifications to enable ISC to discharge its augmented range of functions as the nodal entity of the country," she said. "This will deepen cooperative federalism and strengthen federal polity. May I also reiterate that the National Development Council, which has been a quiet burial, may also be subsumed within the broadened constitutional body of the Inter-State Council," the chief minister said. Modi is set to chair the fifth meeting of the Niti Aayog's Governing Council on June 15 to discuss various issues regarding the country's development. Earlier too, Banerjee had skipped meetings of the policy think-tank, expressing displeasure over the dissolution of the Planning Commission and creation of a new structure. She had sent West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra to represent the state at the meeting. In her letter, Banerjee said the formation of Niti Aayog was unilaterally announced without any discussion with chief ministers. She cited examples of statements made by Niti Aayog officials and a former Union minister stressing the need to give the think-tank the power to allocate funds, as part of the efforts to address regional imbalances. Banerjee's decision of not attending Niti Aayog meeting comes amid heightened political tussle between the TMC and the Bharatiya Janata Party in West Bengal. With the saffron party bagging 18 out of 42 Lok Sabha seats in the general elections, its leaders have asserted that they would overthrow the Trinamool Congress government in the 2021 assembly polls. The TMC, which had won 34 seats in 2014, was able to secure 22 seats this time.

'Fruitless' to attend Niti Aayog meeting, Mamata Banerjee writes to PM Modi

Two Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) supporters were arrested by the police on Wednesday in connection with Trinamool Congress leader Nirmal Kundu’s murder.&nbsp;

Kundu, president of ward number 6 of Dum Dum Municipality in West Bengal, was shot at by miscreants on Tuesday evening at Nimta in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.&nbsp;

Two bike-borne youths appeared in front of Kundu and opened fire at him when he was on his way to the Trinamool Congress party office. Kundu immediately fell on the ground after receiving bullet injuries on his head.&nbsp;

Immediately, the locals gathered and rushed him to the hospital where he was declared as dead.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the Barrackpore Commissionerate arrested two persons – Sumon Kundu and Sujoy Das - from a house in Uttarpara. The police recovered a single shooter firearm along with three cartridges besides a bike from their possession.&nbsp;

According to sources in the police, Das who hails from Murshidabad district of Bengal is a contract or a supari killer who was hired to kill Kundu. However, the actual mastermind and the reason behind the killing is yet to be known.&nbsp;

“We have arrested two persons in connection with the murder. We have also recovered a murder weapon which is a firearm from their possession. The reason behind the murder is not known yet. An investigation is on,” said Ananda Roy, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone II, Barrackpore Commissionerate.&nbsp;

While Trinamool Congress leaders claimed that BJP supporters killed Kundu, BJP ruled out this allegation and termed factional feud in the Trinamool Congress as a reason behind the murder. BJP also said that their party supporters were falsely implicated.&nbsp;

“Our party supporters have nothing to do with this murder. They are not involved at all. This murder is a cause of Trinamool Congress’ factional fight. Each time they arrest our party supporters and put them behind bars by falsely implicating them,” said Bengal BJP president and MP from Midnapore seat Dilip Ghosh.&nbsp;

As per sources in the Trinamool Congress, the party supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, along with other party leaders, will visit the slain party leader’s residence and meet the family members of the deceased.&nbsp;

Two Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) supporters were arrested by the police on Wednesday in connection with Trinamool Congress leader Nirmal Kundu’s murder. Kundu, president of ward number 6 of Dum Dum Municipality in West Bengal, was shot at by miscreants on Tuesday evening at Nimta in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.

Two Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) supporters were arrested by the police on Wednesday in connection with Trinamool Congress leader Nirmal Kundu’s murder. Kundu, president of ward number 6 of Dum Dum Municipality in West Bengal, was shot at by miscreants on Tuesday evening at Nimta in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. Two bike-borne youths appeared in front of Kundu and opened fire at him when he was on his way to the Trinamool Congress party office. Kundu immediately fell on the ground after receiving bullet injuries on his head. Immediately, the locals gathered and rushed him to the hospital where he was declared as dead. On Wednesday, the Barrackpore Commissionerate arrested two persons – Sumon Kundu and Sujoy Das - from a house in Uttarpara. The police recovered a single shooter firearm along with three cartridges besides a bike from their possession. According to sources in the police, Das who hails from Murshidabad district of Bengal is a contract or a supari killer who was hired to kill Kundu. However, the actual mastermind and the reason behind the killing is yet to be known. “We have arrested two persons in connection with the murder. We have also recovered a murder weapon which is a firearm from their possession. The reason behind the murder is not known yet. An investigation is on,” said Ananda Roy, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone II, Barrackpore Commissionerate. While Trinamool Congress leaders claimed that BJP supporters killed Kundu, BJP ruled out this allegation and termed factional feud in the Trinamool Congress as a reason behind the murder. BJP also said that their party supporters were falsely implicated. “Our party supporters have nothing to do with this murder. They are not involved at all. This murder is a cause of Trinamool Congress’ factional fight. Each time they arrest our party supporters and put them behind bars by falsely implicating them,” said Bengal BJP president and MP from Midnapore seat Dilip Ghosh. As per sources in the Trinamool Congress, the party supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, along with other party leaders, will visit the slain party leader’s residence and meet the family members of the deceased.

West Bengal: Two BJP supporters arrested in connection with Trinamool Congress leader’s murder 

BJP's ally Shiv Sena has slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her decision to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-wont-attend-modis-swearing-in-says-bjp-using-occasion-to-scare-political-points-222479">skip Prime Minister Narendra Modi's oath-taking ceremony</a>.

"If Narendra Modi becomes Prime Minister again, then democracy will be in danger, such doubts were expressed by opponents. Mamata Banerjee was amongst the foremost people who made such noise of fighting against Modi's dictatorship. But Modi has been elected democratically and is taking oath within the constitution," Shiv Sena mouthpiece "Saamna" said in its editorial titled "Ishwariya Yojana".

"Mamata has declined the invitation for the swearing-in ceremony. It is true that there was violence during polls in Bangladesh. Inviting the relatives of those killed in violence cannot be a reason to refuse the invitation. These are Indians and not Bangladeshis and they have a right to be in Prime Minister's swearing-in ceremony like anyone else," it said.

Accusing Mamata and her party Trinamool Congress of not being democratic, the editorial said, "There was a cyclone during elections in Odisha which caused wreaked havoc in the state. Prime Minister helped Odisha in a big way. BJP lost badly in Odisha."

Terming Jagan Mohan Reddy as "vijayi veer" (victorious and brave), the editorial added, "Jagan met Prime Minister and demanded for Andhra. Prime Minister accepted it. BJP lost badly in Andhra Pradesh too."

The editorial praised Modi for not speaking anything against opponents after winning the Lok Sabha polls. "New regime will work with restraint and for humanity, Modi has shown it through his work culture. That is why the world is excited about his swearing-in. Modi's second festival is beginning today."

It also lauded Modi for not inviting Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in his swearing ceremony saying that Modi has decided not to work against the sentiments of the people.

"Country being led by Modi is God's plan (ishwariya yojana)," it said. "There are several questions before the country. But those questions can be answered only through mountainous courage of the Prime Minister. This is the significance of his oath-taking ceremony. Modi has accepted to be the guardian of countrymen," it added.

NDA has won 41 out of 48 seats in the state in Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

BJP's ally Shiv Sena has slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her decision to skip Prime Minister Narendra Modi's oath-taking ceremony. "If Narendra Modi becomes Prime Minister again, then democracy will be in danger, such doubts were expressed by opponents.

BJP's ally Shiv Sena has slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her decision to skip Prime Minister Narendra Modi's oath-taking ceremony. "If Narendra Modi becomes Prime Minister again, then democracy will be in danger, such doubts were expressed by opponents. Mamata Banerjee was amongst the foremost people who made such noise of fighting against Modi's dictatorship. But Modi has been elected democratically and is taking oath within the constitution," Shiv Sena mouthpiece "Saamna" said in its editorial titled "Ishwariya Yojana". "Mamata has declined the invitation for the swearing-in ceremony. It is true that there was violence during polls in Bangladesh. Inviting the relatives of those killed in violence cannot be a reason to refuse the invitation. These are Indians and not Bangladeshis and they have a right to be in Prime Minister's swearing-in ceremony like anyone else," it said. Accusing Mamata and her party Trinamool Congress of not being democratic, the editorial said, "There was a cyclone during elections in Odisha which caused wreaked havoc in the state. Prime Minister helped Odisha in a big way. BJP lost badly in Odisha." Terming Jagan Mohan Reddy as "vijayi veer" (victorious and brave), the editorial added, "Jagan met Prime Minister and demanded for Andhra. Prime Minister accepted it. BJP lost badly in Andhra Pradesh too." The editorial praised Modi for not speaking anything against opponents after winning the Lok Sabha polls. "New regime will work with restraint and for humanity, Modi has shown it through his work culture. That is why the world is excited about his swearing-in. Modi's second festival is beginning today." It also lauded Modi for not inviting Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in his swearing ceremony saying that Modi has decided not to work against the sentiments of the people. "Country being led by Modi is God's plan (ishwariya yojana)," it said. "There are several questions before the country. But those questions can be answered only through mountainous courage of the Prime Minister. This is the significance of his oath-taking ceremony. Modi has accepted to be the guardian of countrymen," it added. NDA has won 41 out of 48 seats in the state in Lok Sabha polls.

Shiv Sena slams Mamata Banerjee for declining invitation for Modi's swearing-in ceremony

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee will attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony in Delhi. Watch this video to know more.

Big blow to Mamata Banerjee

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/time-magazine-does-an-about-face-from-divider-in-chief-to-modi-has-united-india-222490">Time magazine does an about-face: From 'Divider in Chief' to 'Modi has united India'</a>

Weeks after Time magazine featured Narendra Modi on the cover of its international edition with a controversial headline, it has now run an article that says no prime minister has united India in decades the way he has done.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-stay-on-fatfs-grey-list-official-to-wion-222508">Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION</a>

Pakistan is certain to stay on the grey list in the next meet of Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an official from FATF member countries told WION on Wednesday.

FATF which looks into money laundering and terrorism financing will meet from June 16 to 21 in Orlando, Florida.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-mountaineer-ravindra-kumar-speaks-to-wion-explains-why-everest-has-turned-into-death-zone-222486">Indian mountaineer Ravindra Kumar speaks to WION, explains why Everest has turned into 'death zone'</a>

With reports of over 10 people killed recently while trying to scale the world highest peak, Mount Everest, global interest mounts around the ambitious expedition, the traffic on the peak and why has it turned into a 'death zone'.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-to-work-closely-with-great-ally-india-state-department-spokesperson-222484">US to work closely with 'great ally' India: State Department spokesperson</a>

India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-wont-attend-modis-swearing-in-says-bjp-using-occasion-to-scare-political-points-222479">Mamata Banerjee won't attend Modi's swearing-in, says BJP using occasion to score political points</a>

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not going to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief announced her decision in a tweet on Wednesday, accusing the BJP of making false claims about political violence in Bengal.

Time magazine does an about-face: From 'Divider in Chief' to 'Modi has united India' Weeks after Time magazine featured Narendra Modi on the cover of its international edition with a controversial headline, it has now run an article that says no prime minister has united India in decades the way he has done.

Time magazine does an about-face: From 'Divider in Chief' to 'Modi has united India' Weeks after Time magazine featured Narendra Modi on the cover of its international edition with a controversial headline, it has now run an article that says no prime minister has united India in decades the way he has done. Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION Pakistan is certain to stay on the grey list in the next meet of Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an official from FATF member countries told WION on Wednesday. FATF which looks into money laundering and terrorism financing will meet from June 16 to 21 in Orlando, Florida. Indian mountaineer Ravindra Kumar speaks to WION, explains why Everest has turned into 'death zone' With reports of over 10 people killed recently while trying to scale the world highest peak, Mount Everest, global interest mounts around the ambitious expedition, the traffic on the peak and why has it turned into a 'death zone'. US to work closely with 'great ally' India: State Department spokesperson India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday. Mamata Banerjee won't attend Modi's swearing-in, says BJP using occasion to score political points West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not going to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief announced her decision in a tweet on Wednesday, accusing the BJP of making false claims about political violence in Bengal.

News brief: Big stories of the day

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee says that she will not attend PM Modi's oath ceremony that is scheduled on 30th May. She also in a tweet condemns BJP's allegations over mass deaths in West Bengal in political violence during Lok Sabha phases.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee says no to PM Modi's oath ceremony

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not going to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief announced her decision in a tweet on Wednesday, accusing the BJP of making false claims about political violence in Bengal.

"It was my plan to accept the constitutional invitation and attend the oath-taking ceremony. However, in the last one hour, I am seeing media reports that the BJP are claiming 54 people have been murdered in political violence in Bengal. This is completely untrue," Banerjee said in her statement posted on Twitter. The tweet accompanying the statement reads, "The oath-taking ceremony is an august occasion to celebrate democracy, not one that should be devalued by any political party."

These deaths may have occurred due to personal enmity, family quarrels and other disputes; nothing related to politics. There is no such record with us. So, I am sorry Narendra Modi ji, this has compelled me not to attend the ceremony, Banerjee further said in her statement.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The oath-taking ceremony is an august occasion to celebrate democracy, not one that should be devalued by any political party <a href="https://t.co/Mznq0xN11Q">pic.twitter.com/Mznq0xN11Q</a>
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1133656252381184001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The BJP lost many workers in panchayat, local body and parliamentary elections in West Bengal during election-related violence. Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah repeatedly highlighted the issue at the rallies they addressed.

Fifty four special guests, besides leaders from BIMSTEC countries and a host of celebrities and politicians, would be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Council of Ministers on Thursday. The Prime Minister has specially invited family members of BJP workers who were killed in incidents of political violence in West Bengal over the past few years, a senior BJP leader said.

Earlier on Tuesday, Banerjee had said that she has accepted the invite to attend the ceremony. "I have spoken to other Chief Ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial program, we thought of attending it. Yes, I will go," she told media in Kolkata on Tuesday.

Banerjee had indulged in a war of words with Modi during the campaign period in the run-up to the elections, in which the BJP has made deep inroads into the Trinamool territory in West Bengal by winning 18 Lok Sabha seats out of 42. The TMC's victory was reduced from 34 in 2014 to 22 in 2019.

Modi will be sworn in for a second term as the prime minister on Thursday at 7pm in Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, along with members of the Union Council of Ministers.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not going to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief announced her decision in a tweet on Wednesday, accusing the BJP of making false claims about political violence in Bengal.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not going to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief announced her decision in a tweet on Wednesday, accusing the BJP of making false claims about political violence in Bengal. "It was my plan to accept the constitutional invitation and attend the oath-taking ceremony. However, in the last one hour, I am seeing media reports that the BJP are claiming 54 people have been murdered in political violence in Bengal. This is completely untrue," Banerjee said in her statement posted on Twitter. The tweet accompanying the statement reads, "The oath-taking ceremony is an august occasion to celebrate democracy, not one that should be devalued by any political party." These deaths may have occurred due to personal enmity, family quarrels and other disputes; nothing related to politics. There is no such record with us. So, I am sorry Narendra Modi ji, this has compelled me not to attend the ceremony, Banerjee further said in her statement. The oath-taking ceremony is an august occasion to celebrate democracy, not one that should be devalued by any political party pic.twitter.com/Mznq0xN11Q — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) May 29, 2019 × The BJP lost many workers in panchayat, local body and parliamentary elections in West Bengal during election-related violence. Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah repeatedly highlighted the issue at the rallies they addressed. Fifty four special guests, besides leaders from BIMSTEC countries and a host of celebrities and politicians, would be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Council of Ministers on Thursday. The Prime Minister has specially invited family members of BJP workers who were killed in incidents of political violence in West Bengal over the past few years, a senior BJP leader said. Earlier on Tuesday, Banerjee had said that she has accepted the invite to attend the ceremony. "I have spoken to other Chief Ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial program, we thought of attending it. Yes, I will go," she told media in Kolkata on Tuesday. Banerjee had indulged in a war of words with Modi during the campaign period in the run-up to the elections, in which the BJP has made deep inroads into the Trinamool territory in West Bengal by winning 18 Lok Sabha seats out of 42. The TMC's victory was reduced from 34 in 2014 to 22 in 2019. Modi will be sworn in for a second term as the prime minister on Thursday at 7pm in Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, along with members of the Union Council of Ministers.

Mamata Banerjee won't attend Modi's swearing-in, says BJP using occasion to score political points

Leaders from Bimstec countries as well as Kyrgyz President Sooronbay Jeenbekov and Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth have confirmed their participation at the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 30. Watch this video to know more.

Bimstec leaders confirm attendance for PM Modi's swearing-in

Watch 'India Watch.' This is the show that brings you the latest & tracks India's big events, We bring you verified updates & unbiased analysis on that.

India Watch; 28th May 2019

In this segment of India Watch, Have a look at guests list for Modi's Swearing-in Ceremony. We also discuss the importance of these guests of Modi's Swearing-in Ceremony with our Guests or Experts Mr. Gurjit Singh, India former ambassador to Germany & with Mr. Harsh V. Pant, Distinguished fellow and observer research foundation.

India Watch: Guests List For Modi's Swearing-In Ceremony

In this segment of India Watch, Have a look at the major political headlines of the day.

India Watch: Major Political headlines of the day

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accepted the invitation to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-to-take-oath-as-pm-on-may-30-221788">Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony</a> as Prime Minister, which will take place on May 30 at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

"I have spoken to other Chief Ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial program, we thought of attending it. Yes, I will go," Mamata Banerjee was quoted as saying.

The two leaders had indulged in a war of words during the campaign period in the run-up to the elections, in which the BJP has made deep inroads into the Trinamool territory in West Bengal by winning 18 Lok Sabha seats out of 42.&nbsp;

The TMC's victory was reduced from 34 in 2014 to 22 in 2019.

Leaders of BIMSTEC or Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation are also set to attend the oath-taking ceremony.

Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan are the BIMSTEC member states.

BJP alone bagged 303 of total 542 seats contested, 21 more than it had got in the 2014 elections.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accepted the invitation to Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony as Prime Minister, which will take place on May 30 at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accepted the invitation to Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony as Prime Minister, which will take place on May 30 at Rashtrapati Bhawan. "I have spoken to other Chief Ministers also. Since it is a ceremonial program, we thought of attending it. Yes, I will go," Mamata Banerjee was quoted as saying. The two leaders had indulged in a war of words during the campaign period in the run-up to the elections, in which the BJP has made deep inroads into the Trinamool territory in West Bengal by winning 18 Lok Sabha seats out of 42. The TMC's victory was reduced from 34 in 2014 to 22 in 2019. Leaders of BIMSTEC or Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation are also set to attend the oath-taking ceremony. Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan are the BIMSTEC member states. BJP alone bagged 303 of total 542 seats contested, 21 more than it had got in the 2014 elections.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee will attend Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony as Prime Minister

In a major blow to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, 50-60 councillors and some Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) of her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the latter’s headquarters in New Delhi on Tuesday.

More than 50 TMC councillors join BJP, Vijayvargiya says it's the beginning

The West Bengal government has formed a five-member committee to probe the desecration of the bust of Vidyasagar during BJP president Amit Shah's rally in Kolkata&nbsp;earlier this month, news agency PTI reported quoting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Monday.

The panel headed by newly-appointed Home Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay, also includes Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma, Additional Commissioner of Police Jawed Shamin and Principal of Vidyasagar College Goutam Kundu, Mamata was quoted as saying.

"During the elections, miscreants destroyed the bust of Vidyasagar. We have formed a committee... It will look into the incident and its causes," Banarjee said at the state secretariat.

Two FIRs have already been lodged in the case and 35 people have been arrested, the chief minister said.

The college named after Iswarchandra Vidyasagar, a key figure in the Bengal renaissance, was ransacked and a bust of the 19th-century social reformer shattered allegedly by BJP workers in clashes during a roadshow by party president Amit Shah in the city on May 14.&nbsp;

The West Bengal government has formed a five-member committee to probe the desecration of the bust of Vidyasagar during BJP president Amit Shah's rally in Kolkata earlier this month, news agency PTI reported quoting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Monday.

The West Bengal government has formed a five-member committee to probe the desecration of the bust of Vidyasagar during BJP president Amit Shah's rally in Kolkata earlier this month, news agency PTI reported quoting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said on Monday. The panel headed by newly-appointed Home Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay, also includes Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma, Additional Commissioner of Police Jawed Shamin and Principal of Vidyasagar College Goutam Kundu, Mamata was quoted as saying. "During the elections, miscreants destroyed the bust of Vidyasagar. We have formed a committee... It will look into the incident and its causes," Banarjee said at the state secretariat. Two FIRs have already been lodged in the case and 35 people have been arrested, the chief minister said. The college named after Iswarchandra Vidyasagar, a key figure in the Bengal renaissance, was ransacked and a bust of the 19th-century social reformer shattered allegedly by BJP workers in clashes during a roadshow by party president Amit Shah in the city on May 14.

Mamata Banerjee forms panel to probe Vidyasagar bust desecration

Forty-eight hours after Lok Sabha election results were announced, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she wanted to resign from the post of chief minister and continue as party president, but party ''wants me to continue as the CM''.&nbsp;

Banerjee made the&nbsp;startling revelation in the first press conference she held after disappointing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/amid-saffron-surge-mamata-banerjees-challenge-to-keep-flock-together-ahead-of-state-polls-221550">election results</a> for the party.

“The first thing that I had said in the meeting was that I want to resign and only continue as the party president. But, my party leaders and workers did not endorse it,” Banerjee said.&nbsp;

Banerjee made a few structural changes following the review meeting she held in her Kalighat residence. All elected MPs of her party, district presidents and senior leaders attended the meeting.&nbsp;

The party supremo further said that she will dedicate more time to her party than the government. “I have fulfilled my election manifesto. We have delivered on all our promises. It’s now time to focus and dedicate more time to the party,” she said.&nbsp;

Banerjee will face Mayoral Polls next year and the toughest battle in 2021 in the form of assembly elections.&nbsp;

Forty-eight hours after Lok Sabha election results were announced, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she wanted to resign from the post of chief minister and continue as party president, but party ''wants me to continue as the CM''.

Forty-eight hours after Lok Sabha election results were announced, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she wanted to resign from the post of chief minister and continue as party president, but party ''wants me to continue as the CM''. Banerjee made the startling revelation in the first press conference she held after disappointing election results for the party. “The first thing that I had said in the meeting was that I want to resign and only continue as the party president. But, my party leaders and workers did not endorse it,” Banerjee said. Banerjee made a few structural changes following the review meeting she held in her Kalighat residence. All elected MPs of her party, district presidents and senior leaders attended the meeting. The party supremo further said that she will dedicate more time to her party than the government. “I have fulfilled my election manifesto. We have delivered on all our promises. It’s now time to focus and dedicate more time to the party,” she said. Banerjee will face Mayoral Polls next year and the toughest battle in 2021 in the form of assembly elections.

Wanted to resign from CM post, but party wants me to continue: Mamata Banerjee 

A Modi wave and simmering anger over TMC's alleged appeasement of the minorities that polarised voters after bloodied panchayat elections last year may have cost the ruling party in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/polarisation-nrc-transfer-of-left-votes-help-bjp-breach-mamata-banerjees-fortress-221352">West Bengal</a> dearly as its tally came down from 34 to 22 in the Lok Sabha polls.

Stunned by the sudden saffron surge, daggers seems to have been drawn in the Trinamool Congress (TMC) camp with local leaders blaming those holding top party posts for their "lack of foresightedness" and "arrogant approach" as primary reasons behind the poor poll show.

Although the TMC has managed to increase its vote share from 39 per cent in 2014 to 43 per cent this time, it failed to hold on to its strongholds in tribal-dominated Jangalmahal region of south Bengal and tea garden belt in the north, where the party faced a complete rout.

The BJP won 18 of total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state and increased its vote share from 17 per cent in 2014 to 40.5 per cent this time. Even in the seats the TMC won, the BJP emerged as the runners-up, relegating the Left to the third spot.

Although the TMC leadership is tight-lipped as a sense of "fear and despair" gripped party's ranks with some even apprehending the stability of its government in the state, its secretary general Partha Chatterjee has described BJP's rise in the state as "temporary".

"We just failed to gauge the undercurrent. We really don't know what lies ahead. It would be really tough to keep the flock together," said a TMC leader, who did not wish to be named.

Of the 22 seats the TMC won, 16 constituencies witnessed a battle of nerves till the last round of counting with leads changing in minutes.

If the data of the national polls are analysed assembly segment-wise, the BJP is ahead in nearly 130 of the 294 assembly constituencies in the state, the majority mark being 148. West Bengal will go for assembly polls in 2021.

According to TMC sources, initial assessment has revealed that there was groundswell against the party in rural areas due to several factors, foremost of which was the violence during panchayat polls due to which many couldn't cast their votes. The others being corruption at the local level and stiff polarisation amid an anger over "appeasement".

TMC insiders said the party virtually failed to counter BJP's nationalism narrative and Hindutva pitch, which resulted in the polarisation in the state, where Muslims constitute 27 per cent of the population.

Bengal, where the electoral discourse has largely steered clear of communal flairs after Independence, witnessed allegations of appeasement flying from both sides -- TMC and BJP -- resulting in the polarisation.

"While the BJP banked on its plank of NRC to drive out infiltrators and a sustained campaign against alleged attempts by the TMC to stop Durga Puja in Bengal, our part not only failed to counter, but in its bid to project itself as messiah of Muslims earned the wrath of a large section of Hindus," said a senior TMC leader.

The viral video of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee getting down from her car and chasing few youths who shouted "Jai Shri Ram" also didn't go down well and the BJP milked the incident to further polarise the election, according to analysts.

They said the infighting in party's rank also led to discontent with a section of TMC cadres voting for the BJP in order to "teach their own party leaders a lesson".

BJP's spectacular performance may have raised eyebrows given its dismal organisational strength in the state, but according to Mukul Roy, considered to be the main architect of the lotus (BJP's election symbol) bloom, the victory was much anticipated.

"In most of the areas, a large section of disgruntled TMC workers and leaders have voted in favour of the BJP. Several TMC leaders have actually worked for us. Now it's time for us to bring those TMC workers and leaders into the BJP and work towards the final battle for assembly polls," he said.

Also the en masse shift of Left votes played a key role in BJP's Bengal show.

Compared to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the Left vote share of 29 per cent dwindled to about 7 per cent, indicating a complete shift to the saffron side. 
According to senior Left leaders, a huge section of Left voters, including party cadres, chose the BJP to defeat Banerjee in the state.

The TMC which had systematically poached elected representatives of the Congress and the Left over the last few years while working towards its mission of "opposition-free" Bengal, actually led to a bipolar political field between TMC and BJP - the only opposition, political observers said.

With assembly elections in two-year's time, municipal polls next year, the biggest challenge before the TMC is to keep its flock together as its top leadership is apprehensive of an exodus to BJP.&nbsp;

A Modi wave and simmering anger over TMC's alleged appeasement of the minorities that polarised voters after bloodied panchayat elections last year may have cost the ruling party in West Bengal dearly as its tally came down from 34 to 22 in the Lok Sabha polls.

A Modi wave and simmering anger over TMC's alleged appeasement of the minorities that polarised voters after bloodied panchayat elections last year may have cost the ruling party in West Bengal dearly as its tally came down from 34 to 22 in the Lok Sabha polls. Stunned by the sudden saffron surge, daggers seems to have been drawn in the Trinamool Congress (TMC) camp with local leaders blaming those holding top party posts for their "lack of foresightedness" and "arrogant approach" as primary reasons behind the poor poll show. Although the TMC has managed to increase its vote share from 39 per cent in 2014 to 43 per cent this time, it failed to hold on to its strongholds in tribal-dominated Jangalmahal region of south Bengal and tea garden belt in the north, where the party faced a complete rout. The BJP won 18 of total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state and increased its vote share from 17 per cent in 2014 to 40.5 per cent this time. Even in the seats the TMC won, the BJP emerged as the runners-up, relegating the Left to the third spot. Although the TMC leadership is tight-lipped as a sense of "fear and despair" gripped party's ranks with some even apprehending the stability of its government in the state, its secretary general Partha Chatterjee has described BJP's rise in the state as "temporary". "We just failed to gauge the undercurrent. We really don't know what lies ahead. It would be really tough to keep the flock together," said a TMC leader, who did not wish to be named. Of the 22 seats the TMC won, 16 constituencies witnessed a battle of nerves till the last round of counting with leads changing in minutes. If the data of the national polls are analysed assembly segment-wise, the BJP is ahead in nearly 130 of the 294 assembly constituencies in the state, the majority mark being 148. West Bengal will go for assembly polls in 2021. According to TMC sources, initial assessment has revealed that there was groundswell against the party in rural areas due to several factors, foremost of which was the violence during panchayat polls due to which many couldn't cast their votes. The others being corruption at the local level and stiff polarisation amid an anger over "appeasement". TMC insiders said the party virtually failed to counter BJP's nationalism narrative and Hindutva pitch, which resulted in the polarisation in the state, where Muslims constitute 27 per cent of the population. Bengal, where the electoral discourse has largely steered clear of communal flairs after Independence, witnessed allegations of appeasement flying from both sides -- TMC and BJP -- resulting in the polarisation. "While the BJP banked on its plank of NRC to drive out infiltrators and a sustained campaign against alleged attempts by the TMC to stop Durga Puja in Bengal, our part not only failed to counter, but in its bid to project itself as messiah of Muslims earned the wrath of a large section of Hindus," said a senior TMC leader. The viral video of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee getting down from her car and chasing few youths who shouted "Jai Shri Ram" also didn't go down well and the BJP milked the incident to further polarise the election, according to analysts. They said the infighting in party's rank also led to discontent with a section of TMC cadres voting for the BJP in order to "teach their own party leaders a lesson". BJP's spectacular performance may have raised eyebrows given its dismal organisational strength in the state, but according to Mukul Roy, considered to be the main architect of the lotus (BJP's election symbol) bloom, the victory was much anticipated. "In most of the areas, a large section of disgruntled TMC workers and leaders have voted in favour of the BJP. Several TMC leaders have actually worked for us. Now it's time for us to bring those TMC workers and leaders into the BJP and work towards the final battle for assembly polls," he said. Also the en masse shift of Left votes played a key role in BJP's Bengal show. Compared to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the Left vote share of 29 per cent dwindled to about 7 per cent, indicating a complete shift to the saffron side. According to senior Left leaders, a huge section of Left voters, including party cadres, chose the BJP to defeat Banerjee in the state. The TMC which had systematically poached elected representatives of the Congress and the Left over the last few years while working towards its mission of "opposition-free" Bengal, actually led to a bipolar political field between TMC and BJP - the only opposition, political observers said. With assembly elections in two-year's time, municipal polls next year, the biggest challenge before the TMC is to keep its flock together as its top leadership is apprehensive of an exodus to BJP.

Amid saffron surge, Mamata Banerjee's challenge to keep flock together ahead of state polls

Riding on communal polarisation, NRC, infighting within TMC and transfer of Left votes, the BJP in West Bengal breached the impregnable fortress of Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee by winning 18 out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats and grabbing a vote share of 40.5 per cent.

Up from two seats and 17 per cent vote share it had in 2014, the BJP not only pulled through an unprecedented victory in the bordering state of Bengal, where it was once considered as a marginal force, but also took a lead in around 130 assembly segments of the state in terms of vote share.

The state is scheduled to go for Legislative assembly polls in two years time in 2021.

Bengal witnessed a saffron surge on Thursday as the BJP inflicted a deadly blow to ruling Trinamool Congress by winning 18 of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

The ruling TMC won 22 seats down from 34 in 2014.

BJP's national general secretary and Bengal minder, Kailash Vijayvargiya, said it was vote against Banerjee's appeasement politics and misrule. 
"This is the penultimate step, the final step will be the formation of BJP government in Bengal," Vijayvargiya said.

According to the BJP sources, among the several factors that led to BJP's stunning growth in Bengal are polarisation of votes due to TMC's minority appeasement politics, it's promise to implement NRC in Bengal to drive out infiltrators, overwhelming shift of the Left Fronts vote share to the saffron party besides infighting within the ruling TMC.

The BJP built its political narrative mostly around Hindutva and nationalism, which resulted in massive polarisation in the state, where Muslims constitute 27 per cent of the population.

Since independence Bengal, where the electoral discourse has largely steered clear of communal politics, witnessed one of the most polarised elections with both TMC and the BJP accusing each other of resorting to minority and majority appeasement.

Riding on polarisation, both TMC and BJP managed to sideline Left Front and Congress.

Watch: BJP party workers celebrate in West Bengal and Mumbai

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bjp-party-workers-celebrate-in-west-bengal-and-mumbai-220931/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Promises of NRC in Bengal to drive out infiltrators, allegations that TMC government stopped Durga Puja in Bengal, Ram Navami rallies, hundreds of communal riots in various parts of Bengal sharpened the communal divide with TMC lapping up the much of the Muslim vote share and BJP bagging a major chunk of the Hindu votes in the states.

The issues of NRC, citizenship bill and polarisation playing an important role in BJP's vote share can be gauged from the fact that the saffron camp made substantial gains in areas close to the India-Bangladesh border, which have a substantial minority vote.

The gamble of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill reaped huge dividends for BJP in seats like Bongoan and Ranaghat, which has huge Matua population- who originally hail from erstwhile East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, and began migrating to West Bengal at the beginning of the 1950s, mostly due to religious persecution.

It also worked wonder for BJP in tribal-dominated areas of Junglemahal, where TMC faced a complete rout.

Another most important factor that played an important role in BJP's victory in Bengal is the massive shift of the Left Fronts votes to it.

Compared to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the Lefts vote share of 29 per cent dwindled to about 7 per cent this time whereas BJP, which had around 17 per cent votes in 2014, bagged around 40.5 per cent votes this time.

According to senior Left leaders, a huge section of Left voters, including party cadres, chose BJP to defeat Mamata Banerjee in the state.

BJP's spectacular performance may have raised several eyebrows given its poor organisational strength in the state, but according to senior BJP leader, and one of main architects of saffron surge, Mukul Roy, this victory was much anticipated as there is huge undercurrent against TMC both inside and outside the party.

"In most of the areas a large section of disgruntled TMC workers and leaders have voted in favour of BJP. Several TMC leaders have actually worked in favour of us. Now it's time for us to bring those TMC workers and leaders into BJP and work towards the final battle for assembly polls," he said.The way lakhs of people including TMC workers were denied to cast their votes during last rural polls, backfired for TMC, Roy said.

The saffron camp which is now eyeing the next assembly polls in the state want to consolidate on the factors that led to its stupendous triumph and work towards new avenues to grab a much larger pie of vote share.&nbsp;

Riding on communal polarisation, NRC, infighting within TMC and transfer of Left votes, the BJP in West Bengal breached the impregnable fortress of Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee by winning 18 out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats and grabbing a vote share of 40.

Riding on communal polarisation, NRC, infighting within TMC and transfer of Left votes, the BJP in West Bengal breached the impregnable fortress of Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee by winning 18 out of the 42 Lok Sabha seats and grabbing a vote share of 40.5 per cent. Up from two seats and 17 per cent vote share it had in 2014, the BJP not only pulled through an unprecedented victory in the bordering state of Bengal, where it was once considered as a marginal force, but also took a lead in around 130 assembly segments of the state in terms of vote share. The state is scheduled to go for Legislative assembly polls in two years time in 2021. Bengal witnessed a saffron surge on Thursday as the BJP inflicted a deadly blow to ruling Trinamool Congress by winning 18 of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state. The ruling TMC won 22 seats down from 34 in 2014. BJP's national general secretary and Bengal minder, Kailash Vijayvargiya, said it was vote against Banerjee's appeasement politics and misrule. "This is the penultimate step, the final step will be the formation of BJP government in Bengal," Vijayvargiya said. According to the BJP sources, among the several factors that led to BJP's stunning growth in Bengal are polarisation of votes due to TMC's minority appeasement politics, it's promise to implement NRC in Bengal to drive out infiltrators, overwhelming shift of the Left Fronts vote share to the saffron party besides infighting within the ruling TMC. The BJP built its political narrative mostly around Hindutva and nationalism, which resulted in massive polarisation in the state, where Muslims constitute 27 per cent of the population. Since independence Bengal, where the electoral discourse has largely steered clear of communal politics, witnessed one of the most polarised elections with both TMC and the BJP accusing each other of resorting to minority and majority appeasement. Riding on polarisation, both TMC and BJP managed to sideline Left Front and Congress. Watch: BJP party workers celebrate in West Bengal and Mumbai × Promises of NRC in Bengal to drive out infiltrators, allegations that TMC government stopped Durga Puja in Bengal, Ram Navami rallies, hundreds of communal riots in various parts of Bengal sharpened the communal divide with TMC lapping up the much of the Muslim vote share and BJP bagging a major chunk of the Hindu votes in the states. The issues of NRC, citizenship bill and polarisation playing an important role in BJP's vote share can be gauged from the fact that the saffron camp made substantial gains in areas close to the India-Bangladesh border, which have a substantial minority vote. The gamble of Citizenship (Amendment) Bill reaped huge dividends for BJP in seats like Bongoan and Ranaghat, which has huge Matua population- who originally hail from erstwhile East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, and began migrating to West Bengal at the beginning of the 1950s, mostly due to religious persecution. It also worked wonder for BJP in tribal-dominated areas of Junglemahal, where TMC faced a complete rout. Another most important factor that played an important role in BJP's victory in Bengal is the massive shift of the Left Fronts votes to it. Compared to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the Lefts vote share of 29 per cent dwindled to about 7 per cent this time whereas BJP, which had around 17 per cent votes in 2014, bagged around 40.5 per cent votes this time. According to senior Left leaders, a huge section of Left voters, including party cadres, chose BJP to defeat Mamata Banerjee in the state. BJP's spectacular performance may have raised several eyebrows given its poor organisational strength in the state, but according to senior BJP leader, and one of main architects of saffron surge, Mukul Roy, this victory was much anticipated as there is huge undercurrent against TMC both inside and outside the party. "In most of the areas a large section of disgruntled TMC workers and leaders have voted in favour of BJP. Several TMC leaders have actually worked in favour of us. Now it's time for us to bring those TMC workers and leaders into BJP and work towards the final battle for assembly polls," he said.The way lakhs of people including TMC workers were denied to cast their votes during last rural polls, backfired for TMC, Roy said. The saffron camp which is now eyeing the next assembly polls in the state want to consolidate on the factors that led to its stupendous triumph and work towards new avenues to grab a much larger pie of vote share.

Polarisation, NRC, transfer of Left votes help BJP breach Mamata Banerjee's fortress

As the counting for the 42 Lok Sabha seats is underway in West Bengal, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek Banerjee is leading from Diamond Harbour constituency against Bharatiya Janata Party's Nilanjan Ray, initial Election Commission trends showed.

In Asansol Lok Sabha seat, Union Minister Babul Supriyo of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-bjp-led-nda-sails-ahead-in-vote-count-backed-by-north-indian-parliamentary-constituencies-220762">BJP is leading by 3448 votes</a> against Moon Moon Sen of All India Trinamool Congress (AITC).

In Coochbehar Lok Sabha seat, Nishith Pramanik of the BJP is leading by 1225 votes against AITC candidate Paresh Chandra Adhikary. See more updates:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-live-updates-220687">BJP-led NDA leads in early trends</a>&nbsp;

BJP candidate Locket Chatterjee is leading by 2175 votes over AITC candidate Ratna De Nag in Hoogly parliamentary constituency, the trends suggest.

In Uluberia seat, Sajda Ahmed of the AITC is leading by 920 votes against Joy Banerjee of the BJP.

The Lok Sabha election results 2019 are likely to have a major impact on the next government - both in the state and the Centre. Most of the exit polls have predicted an unprecedented surge of the BJP in Bengal this election and projected that it may end up winning between five to 23 out of 42 Lok Sabha seats, handsomely improving its tally of two seats five years back.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-election-result-2019-bjp-led-nda-sails-ahead-in-vote-count-backed-by-north-indian-parliamentary-constituencies-220762">TMC</a>, which has dubbed exit polls as "gossip", had said as per its internal reports from districts, the party was comfortably placed to win. The TMC also exuded confidence that it would play a major role in the formation of a new government, for which it is in touch with various opposition parties.

Some of the exit polls have suggested the TMC getting 24 seats.

Watch: Analysis of&nbsp;Impact of early trends on the big battles

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/analysis-impact-of-early-trends-on-the-big-battles-220781/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

As the counting for the 42 Lok Sabha seats is underway in West Bengal, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek Banerjee is leading from Diamond Harbour constituency against Bharatiya Janata Party's Nilanjan Ray, initial Election Commission trends showed.

As the counting for the 42 Lok Sabha seats is underway in West Bengal, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek Banerjee is leading from Diamond Harbour constituency against Bharatiya Janata Party's Nilanjan Ray, initial Election Commission trends showed. In Asansol Lok Sabha seat, Union Minister Babul Supriyo of the BJP is leading by 3448 votes against Moon Moon Sen of All India Trinamool Congress (AITC). In Coochbehar Lok Sabha seat, Nishith Pramanik of the BJP is leading by 1225 votes against AITC candidate Paresh Chandra Adhikary. See more updates: BJP-led NDA leads in early trends BJP candidate Locket Chatterjee is leading by 2175 votes over AITC candidate Ratna De Nag in Hoogly parliamentary constituency, the trends suggest. In Uluberia seat, Sajda Ahmed of the AITC is leading by 920 votes against Joy Banerjee of the BJP. The Lok Sabha election results 2019 are likely to have a major impact on the next government - both in the state and the Centre. Most of the exit polls have predicted an unprecedented surge of the BJP in Bengal this election and projected that it may end up winning between five to 23 out of 42 Lok Sabha seats, handsomely improving its tally of two seats five years back. The TMC, which has dubbed exit polls as "gossip", had said as per its internal reports from districts, the party was comfortably placed to win. The TMC also exuded confidence that it would play a major role in the formation of a new government, for which it is in touch with various opposition parties. Some of the exit polls have suggested the TMC getting 24 seats. Watch: Analysis of Impact of early trends on the big battles ×

Lok Sabha election result 2019: Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek Banerjee leads in Diamond Harbour; BJP ahead in Coochbehar

Watch this video of India Election Watch: State Govt. in Tamil Nadu, MP, are nervous. Bypolls in Goa could alter the Govt. Govt. change could also happen in Goa & Manipur too. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: May 23- Judgement Day For Many Seats

In this segment of WION's India Election Watch, We Decode with Panel of Special Guests or Experts With Us, Why Are Some State Govt. Nervous? #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch: Decodes Why Are Some State Govt. Nervous

Watch 'India Election Watch.' This is the show that brings you the latest on world's biggest electoral exercise, Verified updates & Unbiased analysis. #LokSabhaElection2019 #GeneralElections2019 #PMModi

India Election Watch, 20th May 2019

India Election Watch, 21st May 2019

mamata-banerjee

Mamata Banerjee, News on Mamata Banerjee, stories on Mamata Banerjee, articles on Mamata Banerjee, Mamata Banerjee stories at Wion, Mamata Banerjee news, Mamata Banerjee latest news

mamata banerjee