kunal ghosh

In a strategic shift, Kolkata Police has adjusted security measures for ten notable personalities, such as ex-DGPs, MPs, and former ministers. This decision, rooted in a newly evaluated threat landscape, results in some individuals losing their security personnel entirely, while others receive basic protection.

Following serious accusations of election fraud in West Bengal's Falta area, Trinamool Congress heavyweight kunal ghosh is demanding that the controversial IPS officer, Ajay Pal Sharma, popularly known as 'Singham', be suspended. Ghosh believes Sharma's actions are directly linked to the alleged rigging that has cast a shadow over the election results.

Former West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee appeared before the Calcutta High Court, urging protection for citizens amidst allegations of post-poll violence. She accused police of inaction and highlighted incidents of attacks, intimidation, and threats, seeking urgent judicial intervention to ensure people's safety.

In a troubling turn of events, Kolkata recorded two tragic fatalities within just one day following the elections. A member of the Trinamool party was discovered dead in his home in Beleghata, with family members claiming he was assaulted. Meanwhile, a BJP worker lost his life in New Town after an altercation with Trinamool supporters regarding a party office.

Trinamool Congress faced a significant setback in Kolkata, losing its stronghold and several key seats to the BJP. High-profile defeats included senior ministers and the deputy mayor, marking a stark contrast to previous elections. While some victories offered solace, the overall results signal a major shift in the city's political landscape.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee dismissed exit polls, alleging market manipulation, and predicted a Trinamool victory exceeding 200 seats. She urged counting agents to remain vigilant against alleged Election Commission bias and warned of legal action against observers for "unconstitutional acts." Abhishek Banerjee echoed these sentiments, highlighting alleged targeting of party workers and women.

The Trinamool Congress has accused the BJP and the Election Commission of "gross electoral fraud" and "murder of democracy" following alleged ballot box tampering. The party shared CCTV footage, claiming it shows unauthorized opening of ballot boxes ahead of the May 4th counting. TMC leaders have begun a sit-in protest, with Mamata Banerjee expected to visit the site.

Trinamool Congress's dominance in Kolkata crumbled as anti-incumbency led to significant electoral losses, including party chief Mamata Banerjee and several ministers. The BJP made inroads into traditional Trinamool strongholds, securing key urban seats. Despite the overall setback, a few senior Trinamool leaders managed to retain their constituencies in face-saving victories.

Following dramatic election outcomes, Tollywood is witnessing a seismic shift, as numerous Trinamool 'glam' candidates face stunning defeats. The film fraternity is stepping up, demanding a break from the chains of political interference, particularly from influential players like the Biswas siblings.

Tensions flared at Kolkata's counting centres as Trinamool Congress alleged EVM tampering, citing CCTV footage. Election officials refuted claims, assuring three-tier security and authorized personnel. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged a 24/7 vigil at strongrooms, while clashes erupted between TMC and BJP workers. Officials clarified that individuals seen were authorized representatives segregating postal ballots.

Bengal's election battle intensified with EVM safety concerns. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee personally oversaw a strongroom vigil, while Trinamool and BJP workers clashed over alleged tampering at another centre. Election officials assured the public of robust security measures, dismissing suspicions and urging patience for the final results.

The Trinamool Congress staged a protest in Kolkata, alleging EVM tampering and procedural lapses in strongrooms before the West Bengal assembly polls. The party accused the BJP and Election Commission of collusion, while the EC asserted the strongrooms were secure and footage showed routine postal ballot segregation.

Political leaders from various parties intensified their campaigning on the last Sunday before the second phase of polling, braving the heat to connect with voters. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held multiple events in her constituency, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah led BJP's efforts. Candidates engaged in rallies, roadshows, and door-to-door interactions across different constituencies.

Mamata Banerjee's 'Didi' brand faces its toughest test in West Bengal's elections, balancing welfare schemes and grassroots appeal against BJP's national push. Despite corruption allegations and voter fatigue, her maternalist state model and street-fighter persona remain key, as she rallies voters against perceived disenfranchisement and external forces.

BJP's Dhupguri candidate Naresh Roy faces Trinamool Congress's criticism after a video surfaced showing him allegedly calling Mahatma Gandhi a "deshdrohi" (traitor). Roy claims his remarks were misinterpreted and the video's authenticity is unverified. Trinamool leaders accused the BJP of dishonoring national icons, while Roy asserted his respect for Gandhi and alleged a ploy to spread confusion.

Bengal's ruling TMC has labelled the BJP's election manifesto a "copycat" document, questioning the saffron party's track record on fulfilling promises. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee highlighted unfulfilled pledges like Rs 15 lakh bank deposits and job creation, while a TMC spokesperson accused the BJP of adopting their successful welfare schemes.

In Bengal's assembly polls, candidates are using symbolic props like LPG cylinders, cricket bats, and bicycles to convey messages and connect with voters. These visual cues, from harvesting potatoes to riding motorcycles, aim to cut through campaign noise and resonate with the electorate, especially in the age of social media.