Ramu

NOTA votes surpassed victory margins in nine constituencies, including Tirupattur where a DMK minister lost by a single vote. While NOTA's overall vote share dipped in 2026 compared to 2021, experts suggest its significance is waning due to a lack of real power and the emergence of new political alternatives.

Early trends show the NDA, led by AINRC, is set to retain power in Puducherry. Chief Minister N Rangasamy secured the Thattanchavady seat, a key victory. The Congress-DMK alliance struggles, indicating a fragmented opposition. The NDA's organizational strength and voter outreach appear to have secured them another term, promising continuity in governance.

Chennai's high voter turnout percentage masks a decline in absolute votes cast compared to previous elections. This surge is attributed to a significantly reduced electorate following revisions. Despite fluctuating voter numbers, the city has historically seen shifts between major parties, with current contests potentially becoming multi-cornered, making vote distribution crucial for outcomes.

In the Tamil Nadu elections of 2021, many voters opted for NOTA, a choice that exceeded the winning margins in 13 constituencies, indicating a significant level of discontent among the electorate. Although NOTA's influence has seen a decline since 2016, it still acts as a form of protest for voters dissatisfied with their options.

Agra police arrested a 35-year-old woman on Thursday for allegedly murdering her two-year-old daughter. The child's body was found in a drain near the Yamuna riverbank. CCTV footage led police to the mother, Mamta. She reportedly killed her daughter following a domestic dispute with her husband. Investigations are ongoing.

Tamil Nadu's 2026 elections see a surge of namesake candidates, with over 100 constituencies featuring individuals mirroring prominent contenders. This tactic, aimed at confusing voters, has been observed in key races, impacting close contests. While the Election Commission now includes candidate photographs on EVMs, experts believe more robust measures are needed to curb this electoral manipulation and ensure fair play.

Soaring LPG prices are forcing migrant workers back to Bihar. Families are disembarking at Patna Junction, their journeys driven by unaffordable cooking gas in cities. Construction workers and factory hands cite exorbitant costs, with some stating two days' wages barely cover a kilogram of LPG. This exodus highlights the severe economic strain impacting livelihoods.

Puducherry's 9.5 lakh voters will elect 294 candidates across 30 Assembly seats on April 9. The ruling NDA faces a challenge from the INDIA bloc and actor Vijay's TVK party. Chief Minister N Rangasamy is contesting from two constituencies as all arrangements are in place for the polls.

In an unprecedented trend, scores of families are packing their bags and heading back to Bihar. The skyrocketing prices of LPG cylinders in urban areas have become a harsh reality for many, particularly for migrant workers like factory hands and hospitality staff.

A 23-year-old man climbed a mobile tower in Shahjahanpur district. He demanded to marry a woman he had known for eight years. Police negotiated with him for seven hours. The man eventually climbed down after speaking to the woman via video call. He later collapsed from exhaustion and received medical attention.

Police in Bettiah have arrested two individuals in connection with a suspected honor killing from last year. A minor girl and her partner were allegedly murdered by her father and associates, with the crime staged as a suicide to avoid social shame. The couple's relationship was reportedly opposed due to fears of societal stigma.