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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Apr 20, 2026, 23:02:38 IST
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Assembly Elections 2026 Live Updates: 'Tamil Nadu will repent if it votes for NDA,' says Kejriwal as he campaigns for MK Stalin
Ongoing election cycle is witnessing heightened political activity and strategic positioning across states, particularly in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.
West Bengal: Voter boost and high-stakes contest
The Election Commission’s addition of nearly seven lakh voters has significantly expanded the electorate to over 6.82 crore. While this reflects increased voter participation, the absence of detailed demographic data has drawn attention.
The political contest remains intense, especially in constituencies like Tollygunj, where long-time TMC leader Aroop Biswas faces a tougher challenge than in previous elections. Issues such as voter roll revisions, controversies, and a more unified opposition have made the race more competitive.
Campaign rhetoric has also intensified, with BJP leaders highlighting governance and law-and-order issues, while the TMC seeks to retain its stronghold built in the 2021 elections.
In Tamil Nadu, the campaign has entered its final and most aggressive phase ahead of the single-phase polling on April 23. The main contest is between the DMK-led alliance and the AIADMK-BJP combine.
Rahul Gandhi has positioned the election as a broader ideological struggle, alleging that the BJP aims to dominate Tamil Nadu politics through its alliance. Meanwhile, AIADMK leaders claim public anger against the DMK government will translate into electoral gains.
A major flashpoint has been Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the nation, which opposition parties have criticised as politically motivated. Leaders across parties alleged that the speech violated democratic norms and should be treated as campaign expenditure under the Model Code of Conduct.
Key Takeaways
Overall, the elections are shaping into a crucial political test, with high voter turnout, strong narratives, and sharp political exchanges expected to influence the final outcome.
West Bengal: Voter boost and high-stakes contest
The Election Commission’s addition of nearly seven lakh voters has significantly expanded the electorate to over 6.82 crore. While this reflects increased voter participation, the absence of detailed demographic data has drawn attention.
The political contest remains intense, especially in constituencies like Tollygunj, where long-time TMC leader Aroop Biswas faces a tougher challenge than in previous elections. Issues such as voter roll revisions, controversies, and a more unified opposition have made the race more competitive.
Campaign rhetoric has also intensified, with BJP leaders highlighting governance and law-and-order issues, while the TMC seeks to retain its stronghold built in the 2021 elections.
In Tamil Nadu, the campaign has entered its final and most aggressive phase ahead of the single-phase polling on April 23. The main contest is between the DMK-led alliance and the AIADMK-BJP combine.
Rahul Gandhi has positioned the election as a broader ideological struggle, alleging that the BJP aims to dominate Tamil Nadu politics through its alliance. Meanwhile, AIADMK leaders claim public anger against the DMK government will translate into electoral gains.
A major flashpoint has been Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the nation, which opposition parties have criticised as politically motivated. Leaders across parties alleged that the speech violated democratic norms and should be treated as campaign expenditure under the Model Code of Conduct.
Key Takeaways
Overall, the elections are shaping into a crucial political test, with high voter turnout, strong narratives, and sharp political exchanges expected to influence the final outcome.
20:23 (IST) Apr 19
Congress MP Isha Khan on defeated women quota bill
On PM's address to the nation, WB Congress MP Isha Khan Choudhury said, "... The Women’s Reservation Bill was already passed in 2023. What the Modi government is doing now is simply to mislead the public. They plan to increase seats in some northern states while reducing them in others, which benefits the BJP politically rather than serving women’s representation. Rahul Gandhi has already said: Implement the 2023 Bill, and we will support it. But the government is not interested in empowering women; it only wants to secure more seats in states like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh..."
20:14 (IST) Apr 19
Bengal polls: 'Mamata Banerjee will come back to power,' says Yusuf Pathan
Trinamool Congress MP and former cricketer on Saturday held a roadshow in support of party candidate from Kharagpur Sadar constituency for the West Bengal polls
Speaking to the reporters, Yusuf Pathan said that the party is receiving a positive response, exuding confidence that CM Mamata Banerjee will return to power.
"There is a positive environment here... There is a positive response from the people as well. Pradip Sarkar will win in this constituency, and Mamata Banerjee will come back to power," he said.
Speaking about Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral votes, Pathan highlighted Mamata Banerjee's stance against the deletion of voters.
"Mamata Banjeree fought for those whose names were omitted from the electoral list. A lot of people complained of having their names cut despite having the right documents," he said.
TMC candidate Pradip Sarkar is up against BJP leader Dilip Ghosh, who is seeking to repeat his 2016 performance, when he had managed to break the streak of 7-time Congress MLA Gyan Singh Sohanpal.
Speaking to the reporters, Yusuf Pathan said that the party is receiving a positive response, exuding confidence that CM Mamata Banerjee will return to power.
"There is a positive environment here... There is a positive response from the people as well. Pradip Sarkar will win in this constituency, and Mamata Banerjee will come back to power," he said.
Speaking about Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral votes, Pathan highlighted Mamata Banerjee's stance against the deletion of voters.
"Mamata Banjeree fought for those whose names were omitted from the electoral list. A lot of people complained of having their names cut despite having the right documents," he said.
TMC candidate Pradip Sarkar is up against BJP leader Dilip Ghosh, who is seeking to repeat his 2016 performance, when he had managed to break the streak of 7-time Congress MLA Gyan Singh Sohanpal.
20:06 (IST) Apr 19
'Crocodile tears', 'election speech': Opposition's barbs at PM's address to nation
Opposition leaders slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Saturday address to the nation as politically motivated, lacking substance, and in violation of democratic norms, as it was delivered amid elections in several states.
They suggested that the address should be treated as a campaign speech and its cost added to the BJP's election expenditure, alleging it was a misuse of official platforms, as the Model Code of Conduct is in force in many states.
In a post on X, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha leader John Brittas said, "No PM has ever used a national address to openly criticise and target the opposition in this manner."
He accused the prime minister of breaking a "long-standing democratic norm" with his address to the nation to criticise the Opposition.
"By directly attacking opposition over the Women's Reservation Bill and likening their actions to 'foeticide' and being 'anti-women', this speech has made it evident that the BJP is willing to go to any extent to undermine healthy parliamentary conventions and constitutional traditions," he said on X.
"It's evident that Govt has lost its balance after the drubbing it got in the Loksabha yesterday," Brittas added.
They suggested that the address should be treated as a campaign speech and its cost added to the BJP's election expenditure, alleging it was a misuse of official platforms, as the Model Code of Conduct is in force in many states.
In a post on X, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha leader John Brittas said, "No PM has ever used a national address to openly criticise and target the opposition in this manner."
He accused the prime minister of breaking a "long-standing democratic norm" with his address to the nation to criticise the Opposition.
"By directly attacking opposition over the Women's Reservation Bill and likening their actions to 'foeticide' and being 'anti-women', this speech has made it evident that the BJP is willing to go to any extent to undermine healthy parliamentary conventions and constitutional traditions," he said on X.
"It's evident that Govt has lost its balance after the drubbing it got in the Loksabha yesterday," Brittas added.
19:45 (IST) Apr 19
'Confident that AIADMK-led NDA alliance would emerge victorious in elections': Virugambakkam candidate Ravi
Virugambakkam constituency candidate V. N. Ravi on Saturday claimed that people in Tamil Nadu are "fed up and angry" with the ruling DMK government and are looking for a change ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
Speaking to ANI, Ravi said, "People in Tamil Nadu are fed up and angry with the ruling DMK government and are looking for change. We are confident that the AIADMK-led NDA alliance would emerge victorious in the upcoming Assembly elections."
He expressed confidence that the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would secure a win in the state, asserting that the public mood favours change.
Tamil Nadu is set to witness a keen electoral contest, with major political parties intensifying their campaigns across the state.
Speaking on the Delimitation Bill, Ravi said the exercise would ultimately benefit Tamil Nadu by enabling proper restructuring of constituencies. Citing Virugambakkam as an example, which was earlier part of Alandur, he said such administrative changes improve clarity and governance efficiency.
He further alleged that statements made by Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister MK Stalin on the issue were misleading and that they are liars.
This comes after Opposition parties in Lok Sabha voted against the Constitution Amendment Bill on Friday.
Speaking to ANI, Ravi said, "People in Tamil Nadu are fed up and angry with the ruling DMK government and are looking for change. We are confident that the AIADMK-led NDA alliance would emerge victorious in the upcoming Assembly elections."
He expressed confidence that the AIADMK-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would secure a win in the state, asserting that the public mood favours change.
Tamil Nadu is set to witness a keen electoral contest, with major political parties intensifying their campaigns across the state.
Speaking on the Delimitation Bill, Ravi said the exercise would ultimately benefit Tamil Nadu by enabling proper restructuring of constituencies. Citing Virugambakkam as an example, which was earlier part of Alandur, he said such administrative changes improve clarity and governance efficiency.
He further alleged that statements made by Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister MK Stalin on the issue were misleading and that they are liars.
This comes after Opposition parties in Lok Sabha voted against the Constitution Amendment Bill on Friday.
19:18 (IST) Apr 19
Tamil Nadu Elections: Chandrababu Naidu to campaign for NDA in Tamil Nadu on April 20-21 ahead of Assembly elections
Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu will undertake a two-day campaign tour across Tamil Nadu on April 20 and 21 to support candidates of the National Democratic Alliance ahead of the Assembly elections, according to a press release.
The visit is aimed at energising party cadre, strengthening voter outreach and reinforcing the NDA's development-focused campaign narrative in the state.
The release stated that on the first day of the tour, Naidu will address a major public meeting in Coimbatore before travelling to Hosur and Thalli, where he is scheduled to participate in another public rally. Later in the evening, he will reach Chennai and take part in a large roadshow in Avadi to interact with citizens and NDA supporters.
On the second day, the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister will visit Madurai and proceed to Sattur, where he will engage with community leaders and participate in a key campaign programme. The tour will conclude with his return later in the evening, it added.
The release further stated that Naidu's campaign assumes significance as the NDA steps up its presence in Tamil Nadu, focusing on governance, economic growth, and inclusive development. Known for his emphasis on technology-led governance and infrastructure expansion, he is expected to articulate the alliance's vision for Tamil Nadu's future within India's broader growth trajectory.
18:39 (IST) Apr 19
TMC earned 'PhD in looting' in last 15 years, only interested in development of infiltrators: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday slammed the ruling TMC in West Bengal, alleging that it "earned a PhD in looting" over the last 15 years, and was only interested in the “development of infiltrators" at the cost of the youth, farmers and backward classes.
Addressing a poll rally here, PM Modi alleged that the Mamata Banerjee government had presided over widespread corruption in teacher recruitment, government jobs, the mid-day meal scheme, MGNREGA works and relief funds meant for cyclone-hit people.
"In 15 years, TMC has earned a PhD in looting," the PM asserted, sharpening the BJP's campaign against the ruling party, days ahead of the first phase of the assembly polls.
Elections to the 294-member West Bengal assembly will be held in two phases - on April 23 and April 29. Votes will be counted on May 4.
"The TMC is only interested in the development of infiltrators. The party is snatching the reservation of OBCs and trying to provide it to Muslims," Modi alleged.
The PM also said that a BJP government in West Bengal would implement the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission.
Addressing a poll rally here, PM Modi alleged that the Mamata Banerjee government had presided over widespread corruption in teacher recruitment, government jobs, the mid-day meal scheme, MGNREGA works and relief funds meant for cyclone-hit people.
"In 15 years, TMC has earned a PhD in looting," the PM asserted, sharpening the BJP's campaign against the ruling party, days ahead of the first phase of the assembly polls.
Elections to the 294-member West Bengal assembly will be held in two phases - on April 23 and April 29. Votes will be counted on May 4.
"The TMC is only interested in the development of infiltrators. The party is snatching the reservation of OBCs and trying to provide it to Muslims," Modi alleged.
The PM also said that a BJP government in West Bengal would implement the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission.
18:30 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: PM Modi's Jhalmuri break in Jhargram
18:17 (IST) Apr 19
Tamil Nadu Elections: Rajnath Singh slams DMK over 'Rs 11 lakh crore debt' and corruption
Defence minister Rajnath Singh brought the BJP's campaign for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections to a fever pitch on Sunday, delivering a scathing indictment of the ruling DMK during a massive roadshow in Panakudi.
Singh accused the state government of pushing Tamil Nadu toward "financial ruin" while siphoning off public funds through institutionalised corruption.
In a sharp rhetorical strike, Singh redefined the ruling party's name to highlight alleged governance failures, while contrasting it with the NDA's vision: DMK: Dushprayogam (Misuse of power), Muraikedu (Corruption), and Kootam (Crime) with NDA's: Nanmai (Well-being), Development, and Ampathy (Peace and prosperity).
In a sharp political jibe, Singh coined an acronym for DMK: "DMK stands for... D stands for 'Dushprayogam'; M stands for 'Muraikedu'; and K stands for 'Kootam' (crime). The only answer to the INDIA Alliance is the NDA."
He contrasted it with the NDA, saying, "N stands for 'Nanmai'; D stands for 'Development'; and A stands for 'Empathy' (peace and prosperity). The future belongs to us--it belongs to the people of Tamil Nadu, and it belongs to the NDA."
Singh accused the state government of pushing Tamil Nadu toward "financial ruin" while siphoning off public funds through institutionalised corruption.
In a sharp rhetorical strike, Singh redefined the ruling party's name to highlight alleged governance failures, while contrasting it with the NDA's vision: DMK: Dushprayogam (Misuse of power), Muraikedu (Corruption), and Kootam (Crime) with NDA's: Nanmai (Well-being), Development, and Ampathy (Peace and prosperity).
In a sharp political jibe, Singh coined an acronym for DMK: "DMK stands for... D stands for 'Dushprayogam'; M stands for 'Muraikedu'; and K stands for 'Kootam' (crime). The only answer to the INDIA Alliance is the NDA."
He contrasted it with the NDA, saying, "N stands for 'Nanmai'; D stands for 'Development'; and A stands for 'Empathy' (peace and prosperity). The future belongs to us--it belongs to the people of Tamil Nadu, and it belongs to the NDA."
18:01 (IST) Apr 19
Congress targets PM Modi over defeated women's quota bill
17:26 (IST) Apr 19
'Snatching OBC quota, giving to Muslims': PM Modi targets TMC in Bengal
Addressing a public rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "...A game is being played of giving reservations on the basis of religion for the sake of the vote bank. TMC is engaged in snatching OBC reservations and giving them to the Muslim community, which is wrong according to the Constitution and the court. Therefore, I will tell all sisters and daughters that this time the TMC should receive a big punishment..."
17:23 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: 'Formation of BJP govt in Bengal is certain,' says PM Modi
While addressing a public rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "I say with confidence that this time, the formation of a BJP government in Bengal is certain. There will be many districts from where not a single TMC MLA will emerge."
17:10 (IST) Apr 19
PM is behaving like a BJP karyakarta; there should be some decorum, dignity, statesmanship in a statement from PM.
Congress MP Naseer Hussain
17:08 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: PM Modi participates in a ‘Vijay Sankalp’ rally in Medinipur
He said, “In Bengal, a single proclamation is resounding. Only one voice is being heard- ‘Change is needed.’ Today, from the soil of Medinipur, I have come to assure you that the BJP government will ensure ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’.”
16:54 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: PM Modi addresses in Medinipur
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Under the TMC's ruthless government, there's loot in recruiting school teachers. Loot in children's mid-day meals. Loot in MNREGA work. Loot in money meant for the poor's homes. Loot in village roads. Loot in cyclone relief funds. In 15 years, they've earned a PhD in looting."
16:53 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Mamata Banerjee attacks PM Modi
West Bengal Assembly elections: “PM is misusing government machinery for political campaigns,” said CM Mamata Banerjee in Hooghly.
16:37 (IST) Apr 19
People are fed up with TMC 'goons', will give TMC a befitting reply.
BJP chief Nitin Nabin
16:26 (IST) Apr 19
Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: 'Narendra Modi and Amit Shah tried to destabilise the Tamil Nadu govt,' says Congress' KC Venugopal
"Tamil Nadu is going for an election within 2-3 days. This election is about deciding which Govt we are going to accept. BJP-NDA is trying to make the people of Tamil Nadu their slaves. They want a remote-controlled administration in Tamil Nadu. For the last 5 years, Stalin was the CM of Tamil Nadu. And Narendra Modi and Amit Shah tried to destabilise the Tamil Nadu Govt. What happened in the Parliament day before yesterday? In the name of women's reservation, they wanted to reduce the number of seats in Parliament in Tamil Nadu..," said Congress General Secretary (Organisation) and MP KC Venugopal
15:55 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly elections: PM Modi calls TMC 'anti-women'
“TMC betrayed women and opposed their reservation in Parliament, created obstacles for them; anti-women TMC has to be ousted,” said PM Modi in Jhargram.
15:39 (IST) Apr 19
'Striving to bring your electricity bill down to zero', says PM Modi at Bengal rally
He said, “On one hand, the TMC is engaged in looting the electricity sector; on the other, Modi is striving to bring your electricity bill down to zero. Modi has already implemented a scheme to provide you with electricity and bring your electricity bill down to zero. This scheme is named the 'PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana'.”
15:23 (IST) Apr 19
'TMC govt treated tribals with continued injustice': PM Modi in Jhargram rally
Addressing a public rally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "You gave 15 years to the ruthless TMC government; 15 years is not a short time. In 15 years, what did the ruthless TMC government give you? What did the tribal areas get? No education, no earnings, no medicine, and no irrigation. Everything here is in a dire state... These people are busy filling their coffers. Here, the TMC has encroached upon hundreds of acres of tribal land."
15:21 (IST) Apr 19
Whether they are Trinamool MPs or MLAs, they have absolutely no concern for your problems. These people are solely focused on filling their own coffers.
PM Modi
15:20 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: PM Modi's sharp attack on TMC in Jhargram
He said, “This election in Bengal is about preserving the rich heritage of this land. It is, indeed, for the very purpose of preserving it. Today, the threat of losing its identity looms over Bengal. The agenda of the TMC is following a very dangerous path here.”
15:19 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: PM Modi participates in a public meeting in Jhargram
He said, “This election in Bengal is about preserving the rich heritage of this land. It is, indeed, for the very purpose of preserving it. Today, the threat of losing its identity looms over Bengal. The agenda of the TMC is following a very dangerous path here.”
15:18 (IST) Apr 19
This election about protecting Bengal's identity, legacy.
PM Modi in Jhargram
15:13 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on TMC's Abhishek Banerjee statement
On the statement by TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee regarding his central security, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said,"...Did I ask anyone for security?... Even the West Bengal government also gave me security... I have never asked for security from anyone, neither from the centre nor from the state..."
15:08 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: 'Deeply unfortunate that PM chose to mislead the nation,' says Mamata
14:57 (IST) Apr 19
The Congress, SP, TMC, and all the parties in the INDI alliance have committed such a big sin that the women of the country will never forgive them... They have snatched away women's rights... For this sin, they will now face punishment in every election.
BJP MP Ravi Kishan
14:49 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026: 'We are facing ED raids every day,' says Mamata
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said, "We are facing ED raids every day. Why did you suddenly remember this during elections? You are telling our agencies, the ones who work for our party, to leave Bengal. Why? You have fifty (agencies/resources), we don’t have that kind of power—we have just one. If you try to intimidate them, they will join my party, and we will give them jobs—we will take care of them. Keep that in mind, I will not let a single person lose their job. I spoke to Abhishek this morning. Let me say this clearly—this is your conspiracy. How much more oppression will you carry out? How much more injustice? How many more votes will you try to cut? After this, you will bring NRC..."
14:44 (IST) Apr 19
EC flags 11,000 MCC violations on social media during 5-state polls
EC: 11,000 social media posts/URLs posts seen in violation of MCC, which disrupted or could disrupt law and order, or created false narratives against polling process or machinery, acted upon during polls in 5 states/UTs. Action has included the removal of content, FIR, clarifications and rebuttals
14:28 (IST) Apr 19
Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026: 'No psephologist, no survey can predict this election,' says TVK candidate Aadhav Arjuna
While campaigning in Ayanavaram for Tamil Nadu elections 2026, TVK's Villivakkam candidate and General Secretary of Campaign Management, Aadhav Arjuna, said, "No psephologist, no survey can predict this election. 2026 looks like a Punjab election. We are a new force, particularly women and youth, supporting us a lot... everyone is talking about DMK is a devil force. Stalin's campaign is over... MK Stalin is totally out... The family Raj, monarchy, dynasty politics, family Raj, everything over... TVK is to form the government... people want change..."
13:54 (IST) Apr 19
Women won't forgive DMK over reservation bill: AIADMK chief Palaniswami
13:19 (IST) Apr 19
'Last chance to surrender before April 29': PM Modi to TMC 'goons, syndicates' at West Bengal rally
Addressing an election rally for the BJP in Bishnupur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "I am giving one last chance to all TMC goons, syndicates, and corrupt elements. Surrender at your nearest police station before April 29. No one will be spared after May 4. The mafia of Bishnupur and TMC's syndicate, listen carefully, this will no longer be tolerated."
Listing promises for women in West Bengal, he said that women will receive free rations and Rs 36,000 annually with the 'Maatri Shakti Bharosa Card' if the BJP comes to power in the state.
He said, "The safety of sisters and your prosperity are the priorities of the BJP. Even now, due to the corruption of the TMC government, the women of Bengal do not receive the benefits they receive under the BJP government in neighbouring states of Assam, Tripura, Odisha and Bihar. If the BJP government is formed in Bengal, poor women will receive free rations, and no one will be able to steal their rations."
"The BJP government in Bengal will provide assistance of up to 1.5 lakh rupees to women under the PM Awas Yojana to build permanent homes. There's a lot of buzz right now about the 'Maatri Shakti Bharosa Card.' Every sister in Bengal is very happy about it; through this, every sister in Bengal will receive 36,000 rupees every year," the Prime Minister added.
Listing promises for women in West Bengal, he said that women will receive free rations and Rs 36,000 annually with the 'Maatri Shakti Bharosa Card' if the BJP comes to power in the state.
He said, "The safety of sisters and your prosperity are the priorities of the BJP. Even now, due to the corruption of the TMC government, the women of Bengal do not receive the benefits they receive under the BJP government in neighbouring states of Assam, Tripura, Odisha and Bihar. If the BJP government is formed in Bengal, poor women will receive free rations, and no one will be able to steal their rations."
"The BJP government in Bengal will provide assistance of up to 1.5 lakh rupees to women under the PM Awas Yojana to build permanent homes. There's a lot of buzz right now about the 'Maatri Shakti Bharosa Card.' Every sister in Bengal is very happy about it; through this, every sister in Bengal will receive 36,000 rupees every year," the Prime Minister added.
13:17 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal assembly elections: 'TMC's corruption, atrocities have terrorised people of Bengal,' says PM Modi
"The people of Bengal have also resolved: fear out, trust in. I usually never make predictions during elections. I never talk about the outcome. I've been contesting elections for years, but I avoid those discussions... I am saying that this time the BJP is going to form the government with a huge majority. When I say a huge majority, I am saying it with full confidence," he added in his speech targeting the state govt.
13:02 (IST) Apr 19
PM Modi participates in a Vijay Sankalp rally in Purulia
This is his 2nd rally for the day in West Bengal.
13:01 (IST) Apr 19
'We will do justice to TN and India's women, defeat Congress-DMK': Amit Shah slams DMK over corruption, nepotism
Addressing supporters, Shah said, "Our government will end the DMK's corruption... I want to appeal to ensure the victory of the NDA's BJP candidate, Kirthika Shivkumar, with a landslide victory."
Targeting the DMK leadership, Shah alleged dynastic politics.
"MK Stalin wants to make his son (Udhayanidhi Stalin) the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu," he said, adding, "First M. Karunanidhi, then Stalin, and now his son. This family nepotism will never do good for the people of Tamil Nadu."
Targeting the DMK leadership, Shah alleged dynastic politics.
"MK Stalin wants to make his son (Udhayanidhi Stalin) the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu," he said, adding, "First M. Karunanidhi, then Stalin, and now his son. This family nepotism will never do good for the people of Tamil Nadu."
12:53 (IST) Apr 19
'Opposed to delimitation that govt was plotting to push by using women as shield': Mamata
12:41 (IST) Apr 19
TMC 'betrayed' women, will be punished in assembly polls: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sharpened his attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the women’s reservation bill, alleging that the party opposed greater political representation for women despite pushing various women-centric welfare incentives, and worked against the passage of the 33 per cent quota legislation.
If you want a slightly cleaner, more newsroom-polished variant:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sharpened his attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the women’s reservation bill, alleging that the party opposed greater political representation for women despite its focus on women-centric welfare incentives, and worked against the passage of the 33 per cent quota legislation.
If you want a slightly cleaner, more newsroom-polished variant:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday sharpened his attack on the Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the women’s reservation bill, alleging that the party opposed greater political representation for women despite its focus on women-centric welfare incentives, and worked against the passage of the 33 per cent quota legislation.
12:08 (IST) Apr 19
Tamil Nadu Polls: DMK releases 'super 6' manifesto, mobility access and infra in focus
11:56 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal assembly elections: 'Safety of sisters, the respect of mothers, sisters, and your prosperity, are priorities of the BJP,' says PM Modi
In a jab at TMC, he added, "Even now, due to the corruption of the TMC government, the women of Bengal do not receive the benefits they receive under the BJP government... If the BJP government is formed in Bengal, poor women will receive free rations, and no one will be able to steal your rations."
11:46 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal assembly elections: PM Modi takes jab at TMC govt ahead of polling
“The ‘maha jungle raj’ should receive a strong punishment. The TMC harbours a lot of hatred towards tribal sisters and daughters. The BJP gave the country its first tribal woman President... Similarly, Congress and TMC played a big game to defeat a tribal President. This means they did not want a tribal daughter to become the President of the country. Today the entire world respects President Droupadi Murmu," he said.
11:33 (IST) Apr 19
'Did not want more of Bengal's daughters to become MLAs and MPs': PM Modi slams TMC over women quota bill's failure in LS
"The women of Bengal wanted 33% reservation. Modi ensured this. The women of Bengal wanted it to be implemented from 2029. Modi also made efforts for this. But TMC did not want more of Bengal's daughters to become MLAs and MPs because the daughters of Bengal were challenging their "Maha Jungle Raj." Therefore, TMC, along with the Congress, conspired and prevented the law providing 33% reservation for women from being passed," he said at the rally.
11:22 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal assembly elections: 'This enthusiasm symbolic of anger towards TMC,' said PM Modi while hailing the crowd in Bengal rally
He was addressing the crowd in Bishnupur
11:12 (IST) Apr 19
PM Modi participates in a massive public meeting in Bishnupur
10:31 (IST) Apr 19
Votes for NDA will derail TN's progress: CM Stalin
"The AIADMK and BJP have crippled this region's industrial growth. Votes cast for NDA will become a stumbling block to Tamil Nadu's progress and people must realise this"," said the Tamil Nadu CM.
The DMK chief further said the schemes implemented in Tamil Nadu are being replicated across the country. "The union government is now attempting to copy our initiatives," he claimed.
The DMK chief further said the schemes implemented in Tamil Nadu are being replicated across the country. "The union government is now attempting to copy our initiatives," he claimed.
10:00 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal assembly elections: PM Modi to address four rallies in Bengal
PM Modi is set to address four public rallies across West Bengal on Sunday as the Bharatiya Janata Party steps up its campaign ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.
Modi will begin with a rally in Bishnupur before travelling to Purulia, Jhargram and Medinipur for successive public meetings.
The outreach is significant as the BJP looks to consolidate its support in the western and south-western belts of the state, where it performed strongly in previous Lok Sabha and assembly elections.
Modi will begin with a rally in Bishnupur before travelling to Purulia, Jhargram and Medinipur for successive public meetings.
The outreach is significant as the BJP looks to consolidate its support in the western and south-western belts of the state, where it performed strongly in previous Lok Sabha and assembly elections.
09:30 (IST) Apr 19
'Detailed data to be shared later,' says EC amid fresh additions to voter list
"The aggregate figures have been released in line with norms. Detailed data is maintained separately and may be shared later if required," a senior EC official said.
09:04 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal assembly elections: EC adds around 7 lakh new voters ahead of polls in West Bengal
Around seven lakh new voters have been added to the electoral rolls in West Bengal ahead of the assembly elections, though the Election Commission of India has not released a detailed age or gender break-up.
Of these, about 3.22 lakh will vote in the first phase, while nearly 3.88 lakh are set to cast their ballots in the second phase, a senior official said. The commission has also not clarified how many are first-time voters who have just turned 18, nor disclosed data on Form-6 applications for inclusion or rejections.
Officials said only aggregate figures have been shared so far, with detailed data maintained separately. The total electorate in the state now stands at over 6.82 crore, a figure that could rise further if names are added following tribunal orders.
Of these, about 3.22 lakh will vote in the first phase, while nearly 3.88 lakh are set to cast their ballots in the second phase, a senior official said. The commission has also not clarified how many are first-time voters who have just turned 18, nor disclosed data on Form-6 applications for inclusion or rejections.
Officials said only aggregate figures have been shared so far, with detailed data maintained separately. The total electorate in the state now stands at over 6.82 crore, a figure that could rise further if names are added following tribunal orders.
08:49 (IST) Apr 19
Tamil Nadu assembly elections: Kanyakumari bucks Dravidian trend with Cong-BJP contest
The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections take on a distinct edge in Kanyakumari district, where electoral dynamics differ from the rest of the state. The region has a significant Christian population and has historically seen stronger competition from national parties like the Bharatiya Janata Party and Indian National Congress, alongside Dravidian majors. Issues here often centre on minority concerns, coastal economy, fishing livelihoods, and infrastructure, making it one of Tamil Nadu’s most politically distinctive battlegrounds.
Read full story08:19 (IST) Apr 19
West Bengal assembly elections: ‘Have guts? Face me directly, says Mamata is direct callout to BJP after I-T raids
Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on Saturday dared BJP to “face her directly” after I-T raids at the homes of her chief proposer in Bhowanipore, Miraj Shah, and Rashbehari TMC nominee, Debasish Kumar.
She alleged that EC had deployed officers with BJP links to selectively raid and arrest TMC activists.At a rally in Uluberia, she said: “They are threatening everyone. Raids are still happening at our party offices and on our candidates. If you (BJP) have the guts, face me directly... We know who you are. We have all the details. BJP won’t stay in power tomorrow — if you don’t work impartially, people will take democratic revenge.”
Read full story5 More Updates
The election landscape across key states has intensified, with major political developments shaping the narrative ahead of polling.
In West Bengal, the Election Commission has added around seven lakh new voters to the electoral rolls, taking the total electorate to over 6.82 crore. A significant portion of these voters will participate in the first phase of polling, with the remainder voting in the second phase. However, the poll body has not yet disclosed detailed demographic data, including age and gender break-up, raising questions among observers. Voting in the state will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with results on May 4.
Meanwhile, political campaigning has intensified sharply. BJP leaders, including Yogi Adityanath, have targeted the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) over law and order and alleged infiltration issues, while highlighting governance models in BJP-ruled states.
In Tamil Nadu, the election battle has reached a peak, with key leaders trading sharp political attacks. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi framed the contest as an ideological fight, accusing the BJP of attempting to control the state through its alliance with AIADMK. On the other hand, AIADMK leaders expressed confidence of a victory, citing public dissatisfaction with the ruling DMK government.
The broader political environment has also been marked by controversy after opposition leaders criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s national address, calling it politically motivated and alleging violation of the Model Code of Conduct.
Overall, the elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu are shaping into high-stakes contests, with voter mobilisation, alliances, and political narratives expected to play decisive roles.
In West Bengal, the Election Commission has added around seven lakh new voters to the electoral rolls, taking the total electorate to over 6.82 crore. A significant portion of these voters will participate in the first phase of polling, with the remainder voting in the second phase. However, the poll body has not yet disclosed detailed demographic data, including age and gender break-up, raising questions among observers. Voting in the state will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with results on May 4.
Meanwhile, political campaigning has intensified sharply. BJP leaders, including Yogi Adityanath, have targeted the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) over law and order and alleged infiltration issues, while highlighting governance models in BJP-ruled states.
In Tamil Nadu, the election battle has reached a peak, with key leaders trading sharp political attacks. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi framed the contest as an ideological fight, accusing the BJP of attempting to control the state through its alliance with AIADMK. On the other hand, AIADMK leaders expressed confidence of a victory, citing public dissatisfaction with the ruling DMK government.
The broader political environment has also been marked by controversy after opposition leaders criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s national address, calling it politically motivated and alleging violation of the Model Code of Conduct.
Overall, the elections in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu are shaping into high-stakes contests, with voter mobilisation, alliances, and political narratives expected to play decisive roles.
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