MPs from the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Friday gave Zero Hour notices in the Rajya Sabha over several issues.

SP MP Jaya Bachchan has given notice over 'plight of the entertainment industry in India' while another SP MP Ravi Prakash Verma gave the notice over 'need for legislation to prevent mob violence.'

TMC MP Dola Sen has submitted Zero Hour notice in the Upper House over 'demand to review the decision to privatise Indian ordnance factories.'

The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament. During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice.

On Thursday, the current session of Parliament was extended by two weeks up to August seven to enable passage of pending government legislations.&nbsp;

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi placed a proposal regarding this before the House and Speaker Om Birla then announced that the session has been extended up to August 7.

Under the original schedule, the session was to adjourn on July 25.

MPs from the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Friday gave Zero Hour notices in the Rajya Sabha over several issues. SP MP Jaya Bachchan has given notice over 'plight of the entertainment industry in India' while another SP MP Ravi Prakash Verma gave the notice over 'need for legislation to prevent mob violence.

MPs from the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Friday gave Zero Hour notices in the Rajya Sabha over several issues. SP MP Jaya Bachchan has given notice over 'plight of the entertainment industry in India' while another SP MP Ravi Prakash Verma gave the notice over 'need for legislation to prevent mob violence.' TMC MP Dola Sen has submitted Zero Hour notice in the Upper House over 'demand to review the decision to privatise Indian ordnance factories.' The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament. During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice. On Thursday, the current session of Parliament was extended by two weeks up to August seven to enable passage of pending government legislations. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi placed a proposal regarding this before the House and Speaker Om Birla then announced that the session has been extended up to August 7. Under the original schedule, the session was to adjourn on July 25.

MPs from Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress give Zero Hour notices in Rajya Sabha

As the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-two-bjp-supporters-arrested-in-connection-with-trinamool-congress-leaders-murder-224708">Trinamool Congress</a> is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-conspiring-to-separate-bengal-from-india-bjp-in-lok-sabha-230301">Dilip Ghosh</a> on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus".

He said that the meeting would be a "condolence" meeting. TMC observes July 21 as Martyrs` Day every year in remembrance of those who died in 1993 police firing, in Kolkata.

This year`s rally gains significance as it would be the first mega show by TMC after its poll debacle in Lok Sabha elections. "All went there to see Didi`s drama and circus. Will anyone from here go tomorrow to see a circus? No gates, no flags, what is going on I can`t understand. Will that be a winning festival or a condolence meeting?" asked Dilip Ghosh.

"TMC`s condolence meeting is going on as they lost in these elections following which they are unable to celebrate the winning festival. The public should catch hold of TMC leaders who are going to Kolkata by road and ask them to return the public money which they had taken in last 7-8 years," he said.

While reacting to the FIR lodged against him for his comments on TMC rally, Ghosh said: "The people are not going to come to TMC rally and it would prove to be a flop show. The TMC needs some excuse for their failure and hence they are making Dilip Ghosh and BJP a scape-goat."

"If TMC leaders have guts then they should lodge ten more FIRs against me and I will face them all," Ghosh added.

As the Trinamool Congress is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus".

As the Trinamool Congress is set to organise its annual rally on July 21, West Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh on Saturday said that TMC`s programme would be "Didi`s Circus". He said that the meeting would be a "condolence" meeting. TMC observes July 21 as Martyrs` Day every year in remembrance of those who died in 1993 police firing, in Kolkata. This year`s rally gains significance as it would be the first mega show by TMC after its poll debacle in Lok Sabha elections. "All went there to see Didi`s drama and circus. Will anyone from here go tomorrow to see a circus? No gates, no flags, what is going on I can`t understand. Will that be a winning festival or a condolence meeting?" asked Dilip Ghosh. "TMC`s condolence meeting is going on as they lost in these elections following which they are unable to celebrate the winning festival. The public should catch hold of TMC leaders who are going to Kolkata by road and ask them to return the public money which they had taken in last 7-8 years," he said. While reacting to the FIR lodged against him for his comments on TMC rally, Ghosh said: "The people are not going to come to TMC rally and it would prove to be a flop show. The TMC needs some excuse for their failure and hence they are making Dilip Ghosh and BJP a scape-goat." "If TMC leaders have guts then they should lodge ten more FIRs against me and I will face them all," Ghosh added.

Dilip Ghosh calls Trinamool Congress rally 'Didi's Circus', FIR lodged

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-issues-a-show-cause-notice-to-babul-supriyo-for-poll-code-violation-204374">Union Minister Babul Supriyo</a> on Sunday hit out at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bjp-has-set-an-ambitious-goal-of-dislodging-mamata-banerjee-from-power-229100">Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee</a> claiming that Trinamool Congress will be `swept away` from the state by 2021.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, BJP leader Supriyo wrote: "They became half in 2019 and they will be swept away by 2021" (`19 mein `HALF` huye, `21 mein `SAAF` hojayenge (Trinamool Samabesh)".

The Union Minister has been critical of TMC supremo Mamata accusing her of provoking violence in the state and employing her party workers and police for the same.&nbsp;

Last month, he had asserted that Mamata-led government won`t last till 2021.&nbsp;

"The head of Bengali community is down with shame not only in India but across the world just because of the present scenario in West Bengal," he had said.&nbsp;

TMC and other opposition parties have been claiming that BJP is trying to topple their governments formed in various states.

On July 13, BJP leader Mukul Roy had said that as many as 107 MLAs of Congress, TMC and CPM will join the BJP. "A total of 107 West Bengal MLAs from CPM, Congress, and TMC will join the BJP," said Roy, while addressing a press conference.&nbsp;

Union Minister Babul Supriyo on Sunday hit out at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claiming that Trinamool Congress will be `swept away` from the state by 2021. Taking to Twitter, BJP leader Supriyo wrote: "They became half in 2019 and they will be swept away by 2021" (`19 mein `HALF` huye, `21 mein `SAAF` hojayenge (Trinamool Samabesh)".

Union Minister Babul Supriyo on Sunday hit out at Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claiming that Trinamool Congress will be `swept away` from the state by 2021. Taking to Twitter, BJP leader Supriyo wrote: "They became half in 2019 and they will be swept away by 2021" (`19 mein `HALF` huye, `21 mein `SAAF` hojayenge (Trinamool Samabesh)". The Union Minister has been critical of TMC supremo Mamata accusing her of provoking violence in the state and employing her party workers and police for the same. Last month, he had asserted that Mamata-led government won`t last till 2021. "The head of Bengali community is down with shame not only in India but across the world just because of the present scenario in West Bengal," he had said. TMC and other opposition parties have been claiming that BJP is trying to topple their governments formed in various states. On July 13, BJP leader Mukul Roy had said that as many as 107 MLAs of Congress, TMC and CPM will join the BJP. "A total of 107 West Bengal MLAs from CPM, Congress, and TMC will join the BJP," said Roy, while addressing a press conference.

Trinamool Congress to be swept away from West Bengal by 2021: Babul Supriyo

A special court on Thursday summoned Abhishek Banerjee, TMC MP and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to appear before it on July 25 in connection a case of false declaration about his educational qualification during the elections. 
 
Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal was hearing a plea filed by an advocate Sarthak Chaturvedi, who has accused Banerjee of filing a false affidavit about his educational qualification during the recent elections. 
 
He claimed that Banerjee has misrepresented and falsely stated his qualification as an MBA graduate.&nbsp;

Earlier, Chaturvedi filed a complaint against the lawmaker under section 200 of the Cr. PC, seeking his prosecution for offences under section 125A of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), section 181 (false statement)and 418 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in the fast track court of ACMM Samar Vishal. Banerjee is the MP from Diamond Harbour Parliamentary Constituency. 
 
He is also the National President of All India Trinamool Youth Congress.&nbsp;

A special court on Thursday summoned Abhishek Banerjee, TMC MP and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to appear before it on July 25 in connection a case of false declaration about his educational qualification during the elections.

A special court on Thursday summoned Abhishek Banerjee, TMC MP and nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, to appear before it on July 25 in connection a case of false declaration about his educational qualification during the elections. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal was hearing a plea filed by an advocate Sarthak Chaturvedi, who has accused Banerjee of filing a false affidavit about his educational qualification during the recent elections. He claimed that Banerjee has misrepresented and falsely stated his qualification as an MBA graduate. Earlier, Chaturvedi filed a complaint against the lawmaker under section 200 of the Cr. PC, seeking his prosecution for offences under section 125A of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), section 181 (false statement)and 418 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in the fast track court of ACMM Samar Vishal. Banerjee is the MP from Diamond Harbour Parliamentary Constituency. He is also the National President of All India Trinamool Youth Congress.

Special court summons Mamata Banerjee's nephew Abhishek in fake degree case

Members of Parliament (MPs) from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-will-support-extension-of-presidents-rule-in-jammu-kashmir-ram-gopal-yadav-232008">Trinamool Congress (TMC)</a> on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-vilas-paswan-takes-oath-as-rajya-sabha-member-232001">Rajya Sabha</a> over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals.

TMC lawmaker Manish Gupta has given Zero Hour notice in the Upper House of Parliament over the government`s proposal to link data of three crore students to Facebook.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, another MP Dola Sen from TMC has given the notice in Rajya Sabha over the Centre`s proposal to divest 42 public sector units.

The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament.

&nbsp;During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice.

&nbsp;The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha, which commenced on June 17, will culminate on July 26.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals. TMC lawmaker Manish Gupta has given Zero Hour notice in the Upper House of Parliament over the government`s proposal to link data of three crore students to Facebook. Meanwhile, another MP Dola Sen from TMC has given the notice in Rajya Sabha over the Centre`s proposal to divest 42 public sector units. The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament. During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice. The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha, which commenced on June 17, will culminate on July 26.

Trinamool Congress MPs give two Zero Hour notices in Rajya Sabha over Centre's proposals

BJP MP from Hooghly Locket Chatterjee has accused TMC leaders in West Bengal of taking cut-money.

"Cut-money is taken by TMC leaders from birth till death. West Bengal Chief Minister has accepted that their leaders take it. TMC leaders from lower to upper level are taking it. Chief Minister had said to her party leaders to keep the 25 per cent amount and give 75 per cent to her," she said raising the issue in the Zero Hour of Lok Sabha.

Meanwhile, the Calcutta High Court directed Bengal Food Minister Jyotipriya Mullick, his assistant, a councillor and the state to respond within four weeks to a complaint filed by two businessman brothers that they had been asked to pay Rs 30 lakh for permission to set up a nursing home.

Protests and demonstrations have rocked various parts of the state over people demanding that "cut money" allegedly taken by elected representatives of the ruling TMC from beneficiaries of government schemes be returned.

Cut money amounts to a percentage of money that is illegally charged by elected leaders to the grassroots functionaries at the panchayat and local bodies level from ordinary citizens in return for delivery of services.

Meanwhile, BJP &nbsp;said if voted to power it will seize properties of TMC leaders accused of taking such commissions and return the money to people. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

BJP MP from Hooghly Locket Chatterjee has accused TMC leaders in West Bengal of taking cut-money. "Cut-money is taken by TMC leaders from birth till death. West Bengal Chief Minister has accepted that their leaders take it.

BJP MP from Hooghly Locket Chatterjee has accused TMC leaders in West Bengal of taking cut-money. "Cut-money is taken by TMC leaders from birth till death. West Bengal Chief Minister has accepted that their leaders take it. TMC leaders from lower to upper level are taking it. Chief Minister had said to her party leaders to keep the 25 per cent amount and give 75 per cent to her," she said raising the issue in the Zero Hour of Lok Sabha. Meanwhile, the Calcutta High Court directed Bengal Food Minister Jyotipriya Mullick, his assistant, a councillor and the state to respond within four weeks to a complaint filed by two businessman brothers that they had been asked to pay Rs 30 lakh for permission to set up a nursing home. Protests and demonstrations have rocked various parts of the state over people demanding that "cut money" allegedly taken by elected representatives of the ruling TMC from beneficiaries of government schemes be returned. Cut money amounts to a percentage of money that is illegally charged by elected leaders to the grassroots functionaries at the panchayat and local bodies level from ordinary citizens in return for delivery of services. Meanwhile, BJP said if voted to power it will seize properties of TMC leaders accused of taking such commissions and return the money to people. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP MP accuses TMC leaders of taking cut-money

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-has-broken-enriched-uranium-stockpile-limit-set-by-2015-nuclear-deal-232067">Iran says it has broken enriched uranium stockpile limit set by nuclear deal</a> 
 
Iran has breached a 300kg (660lb) limit on its stockpile of low-enriched uranium set under a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/violent-clashes-as-hong-kong-marks-china-handover-anniversary-232056">Violent clashes as Hong Kong marks China handover anniversary</a> 
 
The angry scenes ramped up tensions in the financial hub which has been rocked by three weeks of historic demonstrations against a hugely unpopular bill that would allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/water-crisis-in-india-centre-sends-out-250-civil-servants-to-driest-areas-232082">Water crisis in India: Centre sends out 250 civil servants to driest areas&nbsp;</a> 
 
India's monsoon, which accounts for nearly 70 per cent of the country's annual rainfall, turned patchy in the first month of the season that began on June 1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-will-support-extension-of-presidents-rule-in-jammu-kashmir-ram-gopal-yadav-232008">Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress, Biju Janata Dal to support extension of President's Rule in Jammu &amp; Kashmir</a> 
 
On June 28, Lok Sabha approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu &amp; Kashmir with effect from July 3rd, 2019.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-gun-battle-rages-in-kabul-after-blast-injures-100-taliban-claims-responsibility-231998">Afghanistan: Gun battle rages in Kabul after blast injures 100, Taliban claims responsibility</a>

A blast in the Afghan capital on Monday was part of an attack by Taliban fighters targeting the defence ministry compound in Kabul, the Islamist militant group said in a statement.

Iran says it has broken enriched uranium stockpile limit set by nuclear deal Iran has breached a 300kg (660lb) limit on its stockpile of low-enriched uranium set under a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

Iran says it has broken enriched uranium stockpile limit set by nuclear deal Iran has breached a 300kg (660lb) limit on its stockpile of low-enriched uranium set under a 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. Violent clashes as Hong Kong marks China handover anniversary The angry scenes ramped up tensions in the financial hub which has been rocked by three weeks of historic demonstrations against a hugely unpopular bill that would allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland. Water crisis in India: Centre sends out 250 civil servants to driest areas India's monsoon, which accounts for nearly 70 per cent of the country's annual rainfall, turned patchy in the first month of the season that began on June 1. Samajwadi Party, Trinamool Congress, Biju Janata Dal to support extension of President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir On June 28, Lok Sabha approved the statutory resolution to extend President's Rule in Jammu & Kashmir with effect from July 3rd, 2019. Afghanistan: Gun battle rages in Kabul after blast injures 100, Taliban claims responsibility A blast in the Afghan capital on Monday was part of an attack by Taliban fighters targeting the defence ministry compound in Kabul, the Islamist militant group said in a statement.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Veteran Communist leader Sudhakar Reddy on Thursday termed as "meaningless" the appeal of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to the Congress and Left parties to come together with her party -- the TMC -- to fight the BJP.

Banerjee Wednesday reached out to opposition Congress and CPI(M) but the two parties rejected her appeal saying her policies are responsible for the saffron party's growth.

The national General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) said the Trinamool Congress chief still sees the Left parties as "enemies and not as political opponents".

"Several hundred of offices of the Left parties in West Bengal are still occupied by Trinamool. More than 100 people were killed. Several thousands were thrown out of their villages. Still, that type of attacks are going on", he told PTI.

The Chief Minister's appeal in this background is meaningless, Reddy said.

He further charged the ruling outfit in West Bengal with "attacking and destroying" the Left.

"It is she (Mamata) who is responsible for forcibly using violence against the Left in a very big way, and weaken the Left in West Bengal in the most undemocratic way and now what's the meaning of this appeal?", Reddy asked.

Left parties see the BJP as an "enemy" and would like to fight against it but at the same time view Trinamool as "equally a rival", he said.

Speaking during the debate on the Governor's address in the state Assembly in Kolkata, Banerjee had said the BJP is trying to run a parallel government in West Bengal and parties like the Congress and the CPI(M) should "join hands" with the Trinamool Congress to fight against it.&nbsp;

Veteran Communist leader Sudhakar Reddy on Thursday termed as "meaningless" the appeal of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to the Congress and Left parties to come together with her party -- the TMC -- to fight the BJP.

Veteran Communist leader Sudhakar Reddy on Thursday termed as "meaningless" the appeal of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to the Congress and Left parties to come together with her party -- the TMC -- to fight the BJP. Banerjee Wednesday reached out to opposition Congress and CPI(M) but the two parties rejected her appeal saying her policies are responsible for the saffron party's growth. The national General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) said the Trinamool Congress chief still sees the Left parties as "enemies and not as political opponents". "Several hundred of offices of the Left parties in West Bengal are still occupied by Trinamool. More than 100 people were killed. Several thousands were thrown out of their villages. Still, that type of attacks are going on", he told PTI. The Chief Minister's appeal in this background is meaningless, Reddy said. He further charged the ruling outfit in West Bengal with "attacking and destroying" the Left. "It is she (Mamata) who is responsible for forcibly using violence against the Left in a very big way, and weaken the Left in West Bengal in the most undemocratic way and now what's the meaning of this appeal?", Reddy asked. Left parties see the BJP as an "enemy" and would like to fight against it but at the same time view Trinamool as "equally a rival", he said. Speaking during the debate on the Governor's address in the state Assembly in Kolkata, Banerjee had said the BJP is trying to run a parallel government in West Bengal and parties like the Congress and the CPI(M) should "join hands" with the Trinamool Congress to fight against it.

Mamata Banerjee's appeal for Left, Congress, TMC to join hands 'meaningless': Sudhakar Reddy

In a fresh jolt to West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Biswajit Das, along with 12 party councillors have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Das joined the BJP in&nbsp;the presence of senior party leaders Kailash Vijayvargiya and Mukul Roy in the national capital.

On Monday, TMC MLA Sunil Singh along with 15 party councillors had joined the Saffron party.

Reacting to the crossover of TMC MLAs and councillors to BJP, Mamata on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party. "TMC is not a weak party. I don't care if 15-20 councillors leave the party after accepting cash. If party MLAs want to leave they can. We don't want thieves in our party. If one person leaves I will prepare 500 more," she said.

Furthermore, she also wrote a letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and informed him that she will be unable to attend the meeting of Presidents of all political parties, called by the Prime Minister.

In Lok Sabha polls 2019, BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections.

The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

In a fresh jolt to West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Biswajit Das, along with 12 party councillors have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In a fresh jolt to West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Biswajit Das, along with 12 party councillors have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Das joined the BJP in the presence of senior party leaders Kailash Vijayvargiya and Mukul Roy in the national capital. On Monday, TMC MLA Sunil Singh along with 15 party councillors had joined the Saffron party. Reacting to the crossover of TMC MLAs and councillors to BJP, Mamata on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party. "TMC is not a weak party. I don't care if 15-20 councillors leave the party after accepting cash. If party MLAs want to leave they can. We don't want thieves in our party. If one person leaves I will prepare 500 more," she said. Furthermore, she also wrote a letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and informed him that she will be unable to attend the meeting of Presidents of all political parties, called by the Prime Minister. In Lok Sabha polls 2019, BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections. The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

More trouble for Mamata Banerjee as another Trinamool Congress MLA, 12 councillors join BJP

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi expressing her inability to attend Wednesday's meeting of leaders of political parties.

The meeting has been convened&nbsp;by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the issue of "one nation one election".

Earlier, Banerjee had declined to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Modi on May 23, objecting to families of BJP workers allegedly killed in political violence in the state being invited to the function.

The Lok Sabha polls witnessed a heated verbal duel between Modi and Banerjee who spearheaded the campaigns of their parties in West Bengal.

Besides winning 303 Lok Sabha seats on his own (the NDA tally being 352), the BJP came up with a surprising poll show in West Bengal by bagging 18 of the state's 42 seats, only four less than the TMC's 22.

The saffron party leapt from two seats in the state in 2014 to 18, while the TMC slided to 22 from 34. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi expressing her inability to attend Wednesday's meeting of leaders of political parties.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi expressing her inability to attend Wednesday's meeting of leaders of political parties. The meeting has been convened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the issue of "one nation one election". Earlier, Banerjee had declined to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Modi on May 23, objecting to families of BJP workers allegedly killed in political violence in the state being invited to the function. The Lok Sabha polls witnessed a heated verbal duel between Modi and Banerjee who spearheaded the campaigns of their parties in West Bengal. Besides winning 303 Lok Sabha seats on his own (the NDA tally being 352), the BJP came up with a surprising poll show in West Bengal by bagging 18 of the state's 42 seats, only four less than the TMC's 22. The saffron party leapt from two seats in the state in 2014 to 18, while the TMC slided to 22 from 34. (With inputs from agencies)

Mamata Banerjee not to attend all-party meeting on Wednesday

In the backdrop of Trinamool Congress lagging behind other political parties in more than 50% civic bodies in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, the party supremo Mamata Banerjee sounded the bugle for the 2020 civic body polls on Tuesday.

Banerjee held a meeting with close to 3,000 corporators and councillors from several municipalities and municipal corporations across the state.&nbsp;

She sent out a stern message that those who take ‘cut money’ and ‘commission’ will not be spared. Even if they wish to leave the party, they must do it right away.&nbsp;

"Now I’m witnessing a new trend, once you conduct an audit and if someone is found to be at fault, they will switch parties. No matter how many parties you switch, you will not be spared. You will be booked. If someone wants to leave the party, please leave now," &nbsp;Banerjee said. &nbsp;

Ahead of the semi-final before the final battle of the 2021 assembly elections in Bengal, the state is all set to go for civic body polls next year, where the Trinamool Congress will be tested.&nbsp;

The party faced a major setback recently after five municipal bodies governed by TMC were taken over by BJP with corporators and councillors joining the BJP in Delhi at the party headquarters.

Five municipalities – Halisahar, Kachrapara, Bhatpara, Naihati and Darjeeling were recently taken over by BJP. &nbsp;

In the backdrop of Trinamool Congress lagging behind other political parties in more than 50% civic bodies in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, the party supremo Mamata Banerjee sounded the bugle for the 2020 civic body polls on Tuesday.

In the backdrop of Trinamool Congress lagging behind other political parties in more than 50% civic bodies in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, the party supremo Mamata Banerjee sounded the bugle for the 2020 civic body polls on Tuesday. Banerjee held a meeting with close to 3,000 corporators and councillors from several municipalities and municipal corporations across the state. She sent out a stern message that those who take ‘cut money’ and ‘commission’ will not be spared. Even if they wish to leave the party, they must do it right away. "Now I’m witnessing a new trend, once you conduct an audit and if someone is found to be at fault, they will switch parties. No matter how many parties you switch, you will not be spared. You will be booked. If someone wants to leave the party, please leave now," Banerjee said. Ahead of the semi-final before the final battle of the 2021 assembly elections in Bengal, the state is all set to go for civic body polls next year, where the Trinamool Congress will be tested. The party faced a major setback recently after five municipal bodies governed by TMC were taken over by BJP with corporators and councillors joining the BJP in Delhi at the party headquarters. Five municipalities – Halisahar, Kachrapara, Bhatpara, Naihati and Darjeeling were recently taken over by BJP.

West Bengal: TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee addresses corporators and councillors ahead of 2020 civic body polls

A day after a Trinamool Congress legislator and 15 councillors of the party in West Bengal joined the BJP, chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party. 
 
Furthermore, she also wrote a letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and informed him that she will be unable to attend the meeting of Presidents of all political parties, called by the Prime Minister, tomorrow.

"TMC is not a weak party. I don't care if 15-20 councillors leave the party after accepting cash. If party MLAs want to leave they can. We don't want thieves in our party. If one person leaves I will prepare 500 more," said Mamata.

Last month, three MLAs from West Bengal, including Trinamool Congress-turned-BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy, along with more than 50 councillors had joined the Saffron party.&nbsp;

In Lok Sabha polls 2019, BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections.

The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after a Trinamool Congress legislator and 15 councillors of the party in West Bengal joined the BJP, chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party.

A day after a Trinamool Congress legislator and 15 councillors of the party in West Bengal joined the BJP, chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said she doesn't want thieves in the party. Furthermore, she also wrote a letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and informed him that she will be unable to attend the meeting of Presidents of all political parties, called by the Prime Minister, tomorrow. "TMC is not a weak party. I don't care if 15-20 councillors leave the party after accepting cash. If party MLAs want to leave they can. We don't want thieves in our party. If one person leaves I will prepare 500 more," said Mamata. Last month, three MLAs from West Bengal, including Trinamool Congress-turned-BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy, along with more than 50 councillors had joined the Saffron party. In Lok Sabha polls 2019, BJP inflicted a massive blow to the ruling TMC by winning 18 of the 42 parliamentary constituencies, in contrast with the figure of 2 seats in the 2014 general elections. The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC although retained the state, it won just 22 seats, as against 34 in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

'I don't care if 15-20 leave the party after accepting cash,' says Mamata Banerjee

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-clashes-erupt-between-bjp-workers-police-in-kolkata-226477">West Bengal</a> Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday asked the agitating junior doctors across the state to resume work by 2 pm and warned of action if the order was not followed.

Banerjee, who reached the state-run SSKM hospital around 12.10 pm in the wake of disruption of medical services in several parts of the state over the past three days, directed the police to clear the hospital premises, asserting that no one apart from patients should be allowed on the campus.

She had given the doctors a four-hour deadline to rejoin service but later revised it to 2 pm.

The chief minister claimed that the agitation was part of a conspiracy of her political rivals.

"I condemn the agitation. The junior doctors' strike is a conspiracy by the CPI(M) and the BJP," Banerjee, who also holds the health and family welfare portfolio, said.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief alleged that outsiders had entered medical colleges and hospitals to create disturbances. She also accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of trying to give the strike a communal colour.

"The BJP, with help from the CPI(M), is indulging in Hindu-Muslim politics. I am shocked to see their love affair," Banerjee said. "BJP chief Amit Shah is encouraging his party cadre to create communal tension and run propaganda on Facebook."

Senior BJP leader Mukul Roy had alleged that members of a particular community had carried out the attack on doctors and that the perpetrators belonged to the TMC.

The doctors, who have been agitating since Tuesday after two of their colleagues were attacked and seriously injured at the NRS medical college and hospital in Kolkata, raised "we want justice" slogans before the chief minister.

Despite the warning, the protesters were seen continuing with their agitation at the SSKM hospital.

Sources said a joint platform of doctors would be meeting the governor shortly to submit a deputation in connection with the ongoing agitation.

Emergency wards, outdoor facilities, pathological units of many state-run medical colleges and hospitals and a number of private medical facilities in the state have remained closed over the past two days in the wake of the protest.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday asked the agitating junior doctors across the state to resume work by 2 pm and warned of action if the order was not followed.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday asked the agitating junior doctors across the state to resume work by 2 pm and warned of action if the order was not followed. Banerjee, who reached the state-run SSKM hospital around 12.10 pm in the wake of disruption of medical services in several parts of the state over the past three days, directed the police to clear the hospital premises, asserting that no one apart from patients should be allowed on the campus. She had given the doctors a four-hour deadline to rejoin service but later revised it to 2 pm. The chief minister claimed that the agitation was part of a conspiracy of her political rivals. "I condemn the agitation. The junior doctors' strike is a conspiracy by the CPI(M) and the BJP," Banerjee, who also holds the health and family welfare portfolio, said. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief alleged that outsiders had entered medical colleges and hospitals to create disturbances. She also accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of trying to give the strike a communal colour. "The BJP, with help from the CPI(M), is indulging in Hindu-Muslim politics. I am shocked to see their love affair," Banerjee said. "BJP chief Amit Shah is encouraging his party cadre to create communal tension and run propaganda on Facebook." Senior BJP leader Mukul Roy had alleged that members of a particular community had carried out the attack on doctors and that the perpetrators belonged to the TMC. The doctors, who have been agitating since Tuesday after two of their colleagues were attacked and seriously injured at the NRS medical college and hospital in Kolkata, raised "we want justice" slogans before the chief minister. Despite the warning, the protesters were seen continuing with their agitation at the SSKM hospital. Sources said a joint platform of doctors would be meeting the governor shortly to submit a deputation in connection with the ongoing agitation. Emergency wards, outdoor facilities, pathological units of many state-run medical colleges and hospitals and a number of private medical facilities in the state have remained closed over the past two days in the wake of the protest.

Mamata Banerjee asks junior doctors to resume work; blames BJP, CPI(M) for strike

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

The Trinamool Congress Monday in a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah alleged that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-under-control-west-bengal-government-answers-home-ministrys-advisory-on-violence-225809">MHA advisory to the West Bengal government</a> is a "deep-rooted conspiracy" and an "evil ploy to grab power" in opposition-ruled states.

TMC secretary general and West Bengal minister Partha Chatterjee said in the letter that the Ministry of Home Affairs has drawn conclusions without verifying the ground reality or taking a report from the state government.

"We, on behalf of the Trinamool Congress, lodge our strong objection to the advisory issued by the MHA and urge that the same be withdrawn forthwith," he said.

In the advisory sent to the West Bengal government on Sunday, the MHA had expressed "deep concern" over the continuing post-poll violence in the state and asked it to maintain law and order.

The advisory came a day after BJP and TMC workers clashed in Sandeshkhali area of North Parganas district.

Criticising the advisory, Chatterjee said, "We have reason to believe that it is an evil ploy to grab power in states run by parties politically opposed to the BJP. Moreover, this is a deep-rooted conspiracy and game plan to malign the state government and capture the Bengal administration through undemocratic, unethical and unconstitutional means."

Blaming "BJP goons" for having perpetrated violence and chaos across the state, the TMC leader alleged that as the MHA and the saffron party are being headed by the same person, it is "quite obvious" that "whatever the BJP desires, the MHA is implementing it with closed eyes, throwing all constitutional propriety to the wind".

"In a democracy, the Centre and the states work in tandem. Instead of taking the state government into confidence and verifying the ground situation, the unilateral issue of an advisory by the MHA is an insult to the people of Bengal and an assault on the glory, culture, and heritage of the state," Chatterjee said.

On Sunday night, the West Bengal government sent a letter to the MHA saying that the situation in the state was "under control" and there was no failure on part of its law enforcement agencies.

The BJP has claimed that five of its workers were killed in the violence in Sandeshkhali, while the ruling TMC claimed that one was killed.&nbsp;

The Trinamool Congress Monday in a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah alleged that the MHA advisory to the West Bengal government is a "deep-rooted conspiracy" and an "evil ploy to grab power" in opposition-ruled states.

The Trinamool Congress Monday in a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah alleged that the MHA advisory to the West Bengal government is a "deep-rooted conspiracy" and an "evil ploy to grab power" in opposition-ruled states. TMC secretary general and West Bengal minister Partha Chatterjee said in the letter that the Ministry of Home Affairs has drawn conclusions without verifying the ground reality or taking a report from the state government. "We, on behalf of the Trinamool Congress, lodge our strong objection to the advisory issued by the MHA and urge that the same be withdrawn forthwith," he said. In the advisory sent to the West Bengal government on Sunday, the MHA had expressed "deep concern" over the continuing post-poll violence in the state and asked it to maintain law and order. The advisory came a day after BJP and TMC workers clashed in Sandeshkhali area of North Parganas district. Criticising the advisory, Chatterjee said, "We have reason to believe that it is an evil ploy to grab power in states run by parties politically opposed to the BJP. Moreover, this is a deep-rooted conspiracy and game plan to malign the state government and capture the Bengal administration through undemocratic, unethical and unconstitutional means." Blaming "BJP goons" for having perpetrated violence and chaos across the state, the TMC leader alleged that as the MHA and the saffron party are being headed by the same person, it is "quite obvious" that "whatever the BJP desires, the MHA is implementing it with closed eyes, throwing all constitutional propriety to the wind". "In a democracy, the Centre and the states work in tandem. Instead of taking the state government into confidence and verifying the ground situation, the unilateral issue of an advisory by the MHA is an insult to the people of Bengal and an assault on the glory, culture, and heritage of the state," Chatterjee said. On Sunday night, the West Bengal government sent a letter to the MHA saying that the situation in the state was "under control" and there was no failure on part of its law enforcement agencies. The BJP has claimed that five of its workers were killed in the violence in Sandeshkhali, while the ruling TMC claimed that one was killed.

Home Ministry advisory 'deep-rooted conspiracy' by BJP to grab power: Trinamool Congress

Four workers of the BJP were shot dead by members of the TMC in Basirhat's Sandeshkhali, BJP leader Mukul Roy has alleged.Reportedly, one TMC workers has also been killed.

The deaths took place on Saturday during a clash between workers of the two parties in the city of North 24 Parganas. Removal of party flags had triggered the fight.

BJP's Mukul Roy alleged that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has unleashed a "reign of terror" in West Bengal.

"TMC goons attacked BJP workers and 4 of our workers were shot dead in Sandeshkhali, Basirhat. Their leader and Chief Minister is indulging in a reign of terror, we have sent a message to Home Minister Amit Shah ji, Kailash Vijayvargiya ji, and our state leaders," said Roy.

He said that a team of MPs will visit Sandeshkhali, Basirhat on Sunday to take stock of the situation and will send a report to the Home Minister Amit Shah.Widespread violence involving the BJP and the TMC was witnessed during Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal, with both parties trading blame over the issue.

The polls have come to a close, but the two parties are still at loggerheads.In an election that was marred by violence, BJP made deep inroads into the Trinamool Congress territory by winning 18 seats in Lok Sabha and restricting the TMC to only 22 seats against 34 it had won in 2014 national polls.&nbsp;

Four workers of the BJP were shot dead by members of the TMC in Basirhat's Sandeshkhali, BJP leader Mukul Roy has alleged.Reportedly, one TMC workers has also been killed.

Four workers of the BJP were shot dead by members of the TMC in Basirhat's Sandeshkhali, BJP leader Mukul Roy has alleged.Reportedly, one TMC workers has also been killed. The deaths took place on Saturday during a clash between workers of the two parties in the city of North 24 Parganas. Removal of party flags had triggered the fight. BJP's Mukul Roy alleged that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has unleashed a "reign of terror" in West Bengal. "TMC goons attacked BJP workers and 4 of our workers were shot dead in Sandeshkhali, Basirhat. Their leader and Chief Minister is indulging in a reign of terror, we have sent a message to Home Minister Amit Shah ji, Kailash Vijayvargiya ji, and our state leaders," said Roy. He said that a team of MPs will visit Sandeshkhali, Basirhat on Sunday to take stock of the situation and will send a report to the Home Minister Amit Shah.Widespread violence involving the BJP and the TMC was witnessed during Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal, with both parties trading blame over the issue. The polls have come to a close, but the two parties are still at loggerheads.In an election that was marred by violence, BJP made deep inroads into the Trinamool Congress territory by winning 18 seats in Lok Sabha and restricting the TMC to only 22 seats against 34 it had won in 2014 national polls.

West Bengal: 5 dead as BJP, Trinamool Congress workers clash in Basirhat

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.

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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>
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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

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India Watch; 28th May 2019

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

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/endemic-corruption-in-north-korea-people-survive-by-paying-bribes-un-report-222287">'Endemic' corruption in North Korea, people survive by paying bribes: UN report</a>

North Koreans are forced to pay bribes to officials to survive in their isolated country where corruption is "endemic" and repression rife, the UN human rights office said on Tuesday in a report that Pyongyang dismissed as politically motivated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/west-bengal-three-trinamool-congress-mlas-over-50-councillors-join-bjp-in-delhi-222268">Setback for Mamata Banerjee: 2 Trinamool Congress MLAs, over 50 councillors join BJP</a>

In a major setback to West Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress, three MLAs from West Bengal, including Trinamool Congress-turned-BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy, along with more than 50 councillors on Tuesday joined the BJP here.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-537-out-of-681-hiv-affected-between-the-age-of-2-to-15-who-to-investigate-222259">Pakistan: 537 out of 681 HIV affected between the age of 2 to 15, WHO to investigate</a>

The Pakistan government has sought the help of the World Health Organisation (WHO) to probe the recent outbreak of HIV in the country’s Sindh province, that has till now affected over 600 people, mostly children, according to a media report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-best-person-to-lead-party-too-premature-to-write-congresss-obituary-shashi-tharoor-222247">Rahul best person to lead party, too premature to write Congress' obituary: Shashi Tharoor</a>

Rahul Gandhi is the best person to pull the Congress out of its predicament following the setback in the Lok Sabha polls, says party leader Shashi Tharoor while declaring that his party is "alive and kicking" and it is too premature to write its obituary.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-rejects-us-ambassador-terry-branstads-call-for-talks-with-dalai-lama-222252">China rejects US Ambassador Terry Branstad's call for talks with Dalai Lama</a>

China on Tuesday rejected US Ambassador Terry Branstad's call to Beijing to engage in "substantive dialogue" with the Dalai Lama, saying it was firmly opposed to "foreign interference" in Tibet and its internal affairs.

'Endemic' corruption in North Korea, people survive by paying bribes: UN report North Koreans are forced to pay bribes to officials to survive in their isolated country where corruption is "endemic" and repression rife, the UN human rights office said on Tuesday in a report that Pyongyang dismissed as politically motivated.

'Endemic' corruption in North Korea, people survive by paying bribes: UN report North Koreans are forced to pay bribes to officials to survive in their isolated country where corruption is "endemic" and repression rife, the UN human rights office said on Tuesday in a report that Pyongyang dismissed as politically motivated. Setback for Mamata Banerjee: 2 Trinamool Congress MLAs, over 50 councillors join BJP In a major setback to West Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress, three MLAs from West Bengal, including Trinamool Congress-turned-BJP leader Mukul Roy's son Subhrangshu Roy, along with more than 50 councillors on Tuesday joined the BJP here. Pakistan: 537 out of 681 HIV affected between the age of 2 to 15, WHO to investigate The Pakistan government has sought the help of the World Health Organisation (WHO) to probe the recent outbreak of HIV in the country’s Sindh province, that has till now affected over 600 people, mostly children, according to a media report. Rahul best person to lead party, too premature to write Congress' obituary: Shashi Tharoor Rahul Gandhi is the best person to pull the Congress out of its predicament following the setback in the Lok Sabha polls, says party leader Shashi Tharoor while declaring that his party is "alive and kicking" and it is too premature to write its obituary. China rejects US Ambassador Terry Branstad's call for talks with Dalai Lama China on Tuesday rejected US Ambassador Terry Branstad's call to Beijing to engage in "substantive dialogue" with the Dalai Lama, saying it was firmly opposed to "foreign interference" in Tibet and its internal affairs.

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

It's their first time at Parliament and so the excitement is but natural. As newly-elected MPs of Trinamool Congress Party, Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan, posted photos outside Parliament, a certain section of social media was up in arms about their posts and even raised an objection about their attire.&nbsp;

On Monday, both Mimi and Nusrat, well-known stars in Bengali films, posted photos outside Parliament. Dressed in western outfits, the two posed outside Parliament and flashed their new ID cards and flashed the victory sign. But the two actresses were subjected to bitter trolling with many questioning their credentials as politicians.&nbsp;

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And its us again 
1st day at Parliament <a href="https://twitter.com/nusratchirps?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nusratchirps</a> <a href="https://t.co/ohBalZTJCV">pic.twitter.com/ohBalZTJCV</a>
— Mimssi (@mimichakraborty) <a href="https://twitter.com/mimichakraborty/status/1132956102881107968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A new beginning..!! I thank <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MamataOfficial</a> and people of my <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Basirhat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Basirhat</a> constituency to have belief in me.. <a href="https://t.co/GU4Xcyz1Ff">pic.twitter.com/GU4Xcyz1Ff</a>
— Nusrat (@nusratchirps) <a href="https://twitter.com/nusratchirps/status/1132936153814904833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Some even remarked about the choice of the attire and commented on Mimi's photo saying, "This is not a film shooting."

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On Nusrat's post, someone wrote, "This is not a place for a photoshoot. This is a place where you should fight for the people's rights and legislate for the country. You don't belong here."

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Interestingly, Mimi Chakraborty defeated veteran CPIM leader and former Kolkata mayor Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya with a huge margin in Jadavpur constituency while Nusrat too won with a massive mandate in Basirhat constituency.&nbsp;

It's their first time at Parliament and so the excitement is but natural. As newly-elected MPs of Trinamool Congress Party, Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan, posted photos outside Parliament, a certain section of social media was up in arms about their posts and even raised an objection about their attire.

It's their first time at Parliament and so the excitement is but natural. As newly-elected MPs of Trinamool Congress Party, Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan, posted photos outside Parliament, a certain section of social media was up in arms about their posts and even raised an objection about their attire. On Monday, both Mimi and Nusrat, well-known stars in Bengali films, posted photos outside Parliament. Dressed in western outfits, the two posed outside Parliament and flashed their new ID cards and flashed the victory sign. But the two actresses were subjected to bitter trolling with many questioning their credentials as politicians. And its us again 1st day at Parliament @nusratchirps pic.twitter.com/ohBalZTJCV — Mimssi (@mimichakraborty) May 27, 2019 × A new beginning..!! I thank @MamataOfficial and people of my #Basirhat constituency to have belief in me.. pic.twitter.com/GU4Xcyz1Ff — Nusrat (@nusratchirps) May 27, 2019 × Some even remarked about the choice of the attire and commented on Mimi's photo saying, "This is not a film shooting." On Nusrat's post, someone wrote, "This is not a place for a photoshoot. This is a place where you should fight for the people's rights and legislate for the country. You don't belong here." Interestingly, Mimi Chakraborty defeated veteran CPIM leader and former Kolkata mayor Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya with a huge margin in Jadavpur constituency while Nusrat too won with a massive mandate in Basirhat constituency.

Trinamool Congress MPs Mimi Chakraborty, Nusrat Jahan trolled for posing outside Parliament

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

The DMK will be the third largest party in the new Lok Sabha, while the Trinamool Congress and the YSR Congress will be fourth in terms of strength in the lower house of Parliament.&nbsp;

As many as 397 MPs were elected from national parties, think-tank PRS Legislative said.&nbsp;

"Of these 303 MPs were from the BJP, 52 from the Congress, and 22 from the TMC. Among the state parties DMK (23) and YSRCP (22) won the most seats," it said.

The nearly nine-year-old YSR Congress party swept Andhra Pradesh by bagging 22 out of 25 seats in the state.&nbsp;

The BJP won 303 seats while its nearest rival, Congress bagged 52 seats in the Lok Sabha results.&nbsp;

In the last general election, the J Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK was the third largest while the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC was the fourth largest party.

The DMK will be the third largest party in the new Lok Sabha, while the Trinamool Congress and the YSR Congress will be fourth in terms of strength in the lower house of Parliament.

The DMK will be the third largest party in the new Lok Sabha, while the Trinamool Congress and the YSR Congress will be fourth in terms of strength in the lower house of Parliament. As many as 397 MPs were elected from national parties, think-tank PRS Legislative said. "Of these 303 MPs were from the BJP, 52 from the Congress, and 22 from the TMC. Among the state parties DMK (23) and YSRCP (22) won the most seats," it said. The nearly nine-year-old YSR Congress party swept Andhra Pradesh by bagging 22 out of 25 seats in the state. The BJP won 303 seats while its nearest rival, Congress bagged 52 seats in the Lok Sabha results. In the last general election, the J Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK was the third largest while the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC was the fourth largest party.

DMK to be third largest party in Lok Sabha; Trinamool Congress, YSR fourth

Pooja Mehta&nbsp;

Ahead of party emergency meeting at West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee's residence at Kalighat on Saturday, Trinamool Congress Friday suspended party MLA from Bijpur and son of BJP leader Mukul Roy, Subhrangshu Roy, from the party for six years.&nbsp;

The party general secretary Partha Chatterjee said that Roy was suspended for making anti-party remarks and breaching the party discipline.&nbsp;

“We are suspending Subhrangshu Roy for six years. The way he is talking, it is clear that he has breached the party discipline. He has made anti-party remarks despite being in the party. The party will not accept it hence he is being suspended,” said Chatterjee.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Roy addressed media and claimed that he had no regrets for failing to provide the lead to the Trinamool Congress candidate Dinesh Trivedi from the Barrackpore constituency.&nbsp;

Roy said, “I had said I’ll ensure lead in Bijpur Assembly seat but I couldn’t. I lost to my father Mukul Roy. Neither am I angry nor have any regrets. I gave my best to my party, my father gave his best to his party too. But people chose him over me.”&nbsp;

Without naming Trinamool Congress’ general secretary Partha Chatterjee for his Kachrapara boy (garbage) remarks on Mukul, Roy said, “People of Barrackpore couldn’t take the fact that some leaders insulted the Roy family. They would often refer to my father as Kachrapara’s Kachra boy. This is unfortunate that despite me giving my best, Trinamool Congress could not win.”&nbsp;

After learning of the party’s announcement on his suspension, Roy said, “It was suffocating to be in that atmosphere. I feel better now. The person (Partha Chatterjee) who made those allegations on me, he should be answerable to the party, as we lost in seats which he was in charge.”&nbsp;

Speculations are rife after Mukul Roy, who was a number two in the party, switched camps and joined the BJP that his son Subhrangshu Roy would also join the BJP. However, time and again Roy had claimed that he would continue to be a part of the Trinamool Congress.&nbsp;

However, Roy’s suspension from the party has given credence to such speculation.&nbsp;

Pooja Mehta Ahead of party emergency meeting at West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee's residence at Kalighat on Saturday, Trinamool Congress Friday suspended party MLA from Bijpur and son of BJP leader Mukul Roy, Subhrangshu Roy, from the party for six years.

Pooja Mehta Ahead of party emergency meeting at West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee's residence at Kalighat on Saturday, Trinamool Congress Friday suspended party MLA from Bijpur and son of BJP leader Mukul Roy, Subhrangshu Roy, from the party for six years. The party general secretary Partha Chatterjee said that Roy was suspended for making anti-party remarks and breaching the party discipline. “We are suspending Subhrangshu Roy for six years. The way he is talking, it is clear that he has breached the party discipline. He has made anti-party remarks despite being in the party. The party will not accept it hence he is being suspended,” said Chatterjee. Earlier in the day, Roy addressed media and claimed that he had no regrets for failing to provide the lead to the Trinamool Congress candidate Dinesh Trivedi from the Barrackpore constituency. Roy said, “I had said I’ll ensure lead in Bijpur Assembly seat but I couldn’t. I lost to my father Mukul Roy. Neither am I angry nor have any regrets. I gave my best to my party, my father gave his best to his party too. But people chose him over me.” Without naming Trinamool Congress’ general secretary Partha Chatterjee for his Kachrapara boy (garbage) remarks on Mukul, Roy said, “People of Barrackpore couldn’t take the fact that some leaders insulted the Roy family. They would often refer to my father as Kachrapara’s Kachra boy. This is unfortunate that despite me giving my best, Trinamool Congress could not win.” After learning of the party’s announcement on his suspension, Roy said, “It was suffocating to be in that atmosphere. I feel better now. The person (Partha Chatterjee) who made those allegations on me, he should be answerable to the party, as we lost in seats which he was in charge.” Speculations are rife after Mukul Roy, who was a number two in the party, switched camps and joined the BJP that his son Subhrangshu Roy would also join the BJP. However, time and again Roy had claimed that he would continue to be a part of the Trinamool Congress. However, Roy’s suspension from the party has given credence to such speculation.

TMC suspends BJP leader Mukul Roy’s son from party ahead of emergency meet  

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

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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

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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

The BJP made massive inroads in West Bengal, giving a substantial jolt to the Trinamool Congress in the state. The BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) retained its ground in the Northeast with almost fifteen seats going to the BJP and leaving just four for the Congress.

In Bengal, the Trinamool Congress had bagged as many as 34 seats in the 2014 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/this-is-a-mandate-to-form-new-india-pm-modi-delivers-first-address-after-lok-sabha-polls-result-221070">Lok Sabha elections</a> with a vote share of 39 per cent. While the number of seats for the Trinamool Congress fell alarmingly this election, the vote share shot up to 46 per cent, retaining a 6 per cent gain.

Trinamool Congress’ star candidate Moon Moon Sen from Asansol constituency lost to BJP’s sitting MP Babul Supriyo. Deepak Adhikari (Dev) retained his seat from Ghatal. Two Tollywood actresses fielded from Jadavpur and Basirhat on TMC ticket, Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan, won with a substantial margin defeating BJP and CPI(M) candidates.

While Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee refrained from addressing the press, she took to Twitter and posted, “Congratulations to the winners. But all losers are not losers. We have to do a complete review and then we will share our views with you all. Let the counting process be completed fully and the VVPATs matched.”

On the other hand, the BJP made major inroads in the state almost decimating the Left Front and Congress’ vote bank. While the Left Front could not secure a single seat, the lone survivor of the Congress in the state – Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury - managed to retain the seat with a margin of more than 80,000 votes.

A statement issued by the Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) read, “The Indian electorate has given a decisive verdict in the favour of the BJP and its allies. The CPI(M) has suffered a severe setback in these elections. We shall introspect the reasons for this and draw proper lessons for the future.”

For the BJP in West Bengal, the panchayat election results formed a ground for the party to further prosper in the state. BJP leaders in charge - Kailash Vijaywargiya and Mukul Roy - ensured that the party achieves the target set by BJP president Amit Shah of 23 seats in the state. Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh gave the party’s organizational structure a facelift after he took over and travelled across the length and breadth of the state to establish the party’s organisation in each of the districts.

For the final push in the seventh phase of elections, where nine seats including two in Kolkata were to go for polls, two other senior BJP leaders – Sunil Deodhar and Himanta Biswa Sarma - reached the city to encourage the party leaders and workers.

From a 17 per cent vote share in the 2014 elections, it rose to a whopping 40 per cent in this election. Political analysts feel that the diminishing vote share of the CPI(M) contributed to a consolidated vote share of the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The CPI(M) had a vote share of 29 per cent in 2014 and fell to a meagre 7 per cent in this election.

The BJP won major seats in North Bengal – Darjeeling, Raiganj, Alipurduar, Balurghat and others - among several seats in the Western Zones like Purulia and others. While Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh bagged the Midnapore seat, singer-turned-politician Babul Supriyo managed to retain his Asansol seat.

While addressing BJP workers, party president Amit Shah said, “Even after so much violence and rigging, BJP won 18 seats in West Bengal. It tells that in coming days, BJP will establish its might in West Bengal.”

As far as the Northeastern part of India is concerned, political analysts had suggested that the BJP might not do well after the party faced a backlash while trying to push the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB). However, the votes polled in favour of the BJP suggested that the push for the Citizenship Amendment Bill did not affect BJP’s electoral gains in the region.

In Assam, BJP candidates won with good margins in seats like Dibrugarh, Guwahati, Nowgong, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Silchar, Mangaldai and Tezpur. Barpeta seat went to BJP’s electoral ally in Assam – Asam Gono Parishad (AGP). All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF)’s Badruddin Ajmal won the Dhubri seat. Congress managed to secure three seats in Assam with party’s young leader Gaurav Gogoi securing the Kaliabor seat.

The man who engineered BJP’s victory in India’s Northeast and the chairman of North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) Himanta Biswa Sarma took a dig at Congress president Rahul Gandhi saying, “Politics is not meant for Rahul Gandhi. The party should consider giving him an early retirement.”

The BJP made massive inroads in West Bengal, giving a substantial jolt to the Trinamool Congress in the state. The BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) retained its ground in the Northeast with almost fifteen seats going to the BJP and leaving just four for the Congress.

The BJP made massive inroads in West Bengal, giving a substantial jolt to the Trinamool Congress in the state. The BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) retained its ground in the Northeast with almost fifteen seats going to the BJP and leaving just four for the Congress. In Bengal, the Trinamool Congress had bagged as many as 34 seats in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections with a vote share of 39 per cent. While the number of seats for the Trinamool Congress fell alarmingly this election, the vote share shot up to 46 per cent, retaining a 6 per cent gain. Trinamool Congress’ star candidate Moon Moon Sen from Asansol constituency lost to BJP’s sitting MP Babul Supriyo. Deepak Adhikari (Dev) retained his seat from Ghatal. Two Tollywood actresses fielded from Jadavpur and Basirhat on TMC ticket, Mimi Chakraborty and Nusrat Jahan, won with a substantial margin defeating BJP and CPI(M) candidates. While Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee refrained from addressing the press, she took to Twitter and posted, “Congratulations to the winners. But all losers are not losers. We have to do a complete review and then we will share our views with you all. Let the counting process be completed fully and the VVPATs matched.” On the other hand, the BJP made major inroads in the state almost decimating the Left Front and Congress’ vote bank. While the Left Front could not secure a single seat, the lone survivor of the Congress in the state – Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury - managed to retain the seat with a margin of more than 80,000 votes. A statement issued by the Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) read, “The Indian electorate has given a decisive verdict in the favour of the BJP and its allies. The CPI(M) has suffered a severe setback in these elections. We shall introspect the reasons for this and draw proper lessons for the future.” For the BJP in West Bengal, the panchayat election results formed a ground for the party to further prosper in the state. BJP leaders in charge - Kailash Vijaywargiya and Mukul Roy - ensured that the party achieves the target set by BJP president Amit Shah of 23 seats in the state. Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh gave the party’s organizational structure a facelift after he took over and travelled across the length and breadth of the state to establish the party’s organisation in each of the districts. For the final push in the seventh phase of elections, where nine seats including two in Kolkata were to go for polls, two other senior BJP leaders – Sunil Deodhar and Himanta Biswa Sarma - reached the city to encourage the party leaders and workers. From a 17 per cent vote share in the 2014 elections, it rose to a whopping 40 per cent in this election. Political analysts feel that the diminishing vote share of the CPI(M) contributed to a consolidated vote share of the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The CPI(M) had a vote share of 29 per cent in 2014 and fell to a meagre 7 per cent in this election. The BJP won major seats in North Bengal – Darjeeling, Raiganj, Alipurduar, Balurghat and others - among several seats in the Western Zones like Purulia and others. While Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh bagged the Midnapore seat, singer-turned-politician Babul Supriyo managed to retain his Asansol seat. While addressing BJP workers, party president Amit Shah said, “Even after so much violence and rigging, BJP won 18 seats in West Bengal. It tells that in coming days, BJP will establish its might in West Bengal.” As far as the Northeastern part of India is concerned, political analysts had suggested that the BJP might not do well after the party faced a backlash while trying to push the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB). However, the votes polled in favour of the BJP suggested that the push for the Citizenship Amendment Bill did not affect BJP’s electoral gains in the region. In Assam, BJP candidates won with good margins in seats like Dibrugarh, Guwahati, Nowgong, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Silchar, Mangaldai and Tezpur. Barpeta seat went to BJP’s electoral ally in Assam – Asam Gono Parishad (AGP). All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF)’s Badruddin Ajmal won the Dhubri seat. Congress managed to secure three seats in Assam with party’s young leader Gaurav Gogoi securing the Kaliabor seat. The man who engineered BJP’s victory in India’s Northeast and the chairman of North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) Himanta Biswa Sarma took a dig at Congress president Rahul Gandhi saying, “Politics is not meant for Rahul Gandhi. The party should consider giving him an early retirement.”

BJP makes massive inroads in West Bengal, Northeast; gives major jolt to Congress, Trinamool Congress

With voting underway for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/live-lok-sabha-polls-2019-phase-7-voting-begins-in-chandigarh-and-7-states-219713">Seventh phase of the Lok Sabha elections</a>, large scale violence is being reported from different parliamentary constituencies of the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-violence-mars-polling-at-raiganj-chopra-211421">West Bengal, witnessed clashes</a> on Sunday too with Trinamool and BJP blaming each other for violence.

While vehicles of few leaders were vandalised in poll-related violence, BJP has also accused TMC of beating its office-bearers.

BJP MP candidate from Jadavpur, Anupam Hazra told ANI that the Mandal president of his party was beaten by 'goons'&nbsp;of TMC.

"TMC goons have beaten up a BJP Mandal president, a driver and attacked a car. We also rescued our three polling agents. TMC goons were going to carry out rigging at 52 booths. People are eager to vote for BJP but they are not allowing people to vote", he said.

Earlier while visiting polling booth number 150/137 in Jadavpur, he had also objected to women covering their faces while voting and said, "Women TMC workers with covered faces are casting proxy votes, it is difficult to establish their identity. When we raised an objection to it, they created a ruckus at the polling station."

BJP candidate for Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency, Nilanjan Roy`s car was also vandalised in Dongaria area of the constituency on Saturday.

Voters in Basirhat and Jadavpurhave alleged that TMC workers are disrupting the election process by not allowing them to vote.

A protest was held by voters outside booth number 189 in Basirhat.

"We are not being allowed to vote by TMC goons. We went to Police for complaining against them, but TMC supporters stopped us midway and started beating us," a protestor said.

BJP`s Lok Sabha candidate from Basirhat, Sayantan Basu was also present at the spot.

"100 people were stopped from voting. We will take them to cast their vote," he said.

Party's candidate from Basirhat also alleged of the poll process being hindered by TMC workers and demanded the additional presence of Central forces.

Similarly, in Jadavpur, there were disturbances in the polling process at booth number 150 and 137.

Discontent over the poll process was not limited to BJP but CPI also complaint of high-handedness by TMC workers.CPI candidate Pallab Sengupta on Sunday registered 142 complaints against TMC workers. In his complaint, he had asserted that TMC workers were pressurizing voters to vote for their party`s candidate.West Bengal voted across all the seven phases of national polls, today being the last one.

All the earlier phases have witnessed poll violence with TMC and BJP trading blame over the issue. Nine seats in the state are voting today.Sunday marks the end of the seven-phase polling in the country with a total of 59 parliamentary constituencies voting today.

The counting of votes would take place on May 23.

With voting underway for the Seventh phase of the Lok Sabha elections, large scale violence is being reported from different parliamentary constituencies of the state.

With voting underway for the Seventh phase of the Lok Sabha elections, large scale violence is being reported from different parliamentary constituencies of the state. West Bengal, witnessed clashes on Sunday too with Trinamool and BJP blaming each other for violence. While vehicles of few leaders were vandalised in poll-related violence, BJP has also accused TMC of beating its office-bearers. BJP MP candidate from Jadavpur, Anupam Hazra told ANI that the Mandal president of his party was beaten by 'goons' of TMC. "TMC goons have beaten up a BJP Mandal president, a driver and attacked a car. We also rescued our three polling agents. TMC goons were going to carry out rigging at 52 booths. People are eager to vote for BJP but they are not allowing people to vote", he said. Earlier while visiting polling booth number 150/137 in Jadavpur, he had also objected to women covering their faces while voting and said, "Women TMC workers with covered faces are casting proxy votes, it is difficult to establish their identity. When we raised an objection to it, they created a ruckus at the polling station." BJP candidate for Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency, Nilanjan Roy`s car was also vandalised in Dongaria area of the constituency on Saturday. Voters in Basirhat and Jadavpurhave alleged that TMC workers are disrupting the election process by not allowing them to vote. A protest was held by voters outside booth number 189 in Basirhat. "We are not being allowed to vote by TMC goons. We went to Police for complaining against them, but TMC supporters stopped us midway and started beating us," a protestor said. BJP`s Lok Sabha candidate from Basirhat, Sayantan Basu was also present at the spot. "100 people were stopped from voting. We will take them to cast their vote," he said. Party's candidate from Basirhat also alleged of the poll process being hindered by TMC workers and demanded the additional presence of Central forces. Similarly, in Jadavpur, there were disturbances in the polling process at booth number 150 and 137. Discontent over the poll process was not limited to BJP but CPI also complaint of high-handedness by TMC workers.CPI candidate Pallab Sengupta on Sunday registered 142 complaints against TMC workers. In his complaint, he had asserted that TMC workers were pressurizing voters to vote for their party`s candidate.West Bengal voted across all the seven phases of national polls, today being the last one. All the earlier phases have witnessed poll violence with TMC and BJP trading blame over the issue. Nine seats in the state are voting today.Sunday marks the end of the seven-phase polling in the country with a total of 59 parliamentary constituencies voting today. The counting of votes would take place on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Violence mar polls in West Bengal; BJP and CPI accuse Trinamool Congress of creating ruckus

TMC leader Derek O’Brien briefed the media over the violence that broke out in Kolkata during Amit Shah’s rally. Watch full video to know more.

TMC Leader Derek O' Brien slams BJP after BJP-TMC clashes during Amit Shah's Kolkata rally

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