News for 'Election Observer'

Bengal: TMC lawmakers at BJP meets trigger speculation

Bengal: TMC lawmakers at BJP meets trigger speculation

Rediff.com26 May 2026

Apart from Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar, the Barasat MP, those attending the meeting included TMC MLAs Anisur Rahaman Biswas of Deganga, Bina Mondal of Swarupnagar, Mohammad Abdul Matin of Haroa and three more legislators from the Basirhat subdivision of North 24 Parganas district.

Suvendu Adhikari Promises To Restore Voter Rights In Falta

Suvendu Adhikari Promises To Restore Voter Rights In Falta

Rediff.com16 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has alleged that the people of Diamond Harbour have been unable to exercise their voting rights for a decade. He assured people that the scenario has now changed, and the May 21 repolling in the Falta Assembly seat will re-establish voter rights.

Trinamool dares BJP after repoll order in Falta

Trinamool dares BJP after repoll order in Falta

Rediff.com3 May 2026

The TMC has challenged the BJP to win the Falta assembly seat in West Bengal, where a re-election has been ordered due to electoral offences. The TMC has dared the BJP to deploy its full resources, including top leaders and central forces, while expressing confidence in the electorate's support.

Kerala CM Impasse: Congress Leaders Summoned To Delhi

Kerala CM Impasse: Congress Leaders Summoned To Delhi

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Amidst ongoing uncertainty regarding the selection of the next Kerala chief minister, the Congress high command has summoned key party leaders to New Delhi for discussions.

SC refuses to intervene in TMC plea on vote counting deployment in Bengal

SC refuses to intervene in TMC plea on vote counting deployment in Bengal

Rediff.com2 May 2026

The Supreme Court has declined to interfere with the Election Commission's circular regarding the deployment of central government personnel for vote counting in West Bengal, dismissing a plea by the TMC.

'Vijay Won't Ask Anybody For Support'

'Vijay Won't Ask Anybody For Support'

Rediff.com6 May 2026

'The TVK might form a minority government.'

The Only Pollster Who Predicted Vijay's Victory

The Only Pollster Who Predicted Vijay's Victory

Rediff.com5 May 2026

'Tamil Nadu has 42% of its population in the 18 to 39 age group. The bulk of the population in this age group voted for Vijay and women voters too voted for him in big numbers.'

BJP-TMC clash dominates as Bengal heads into final phase voting

BJP-TMC clash dominates as Bengal heads into final phase voting

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The campaign for the current election cycle ended on Monday as canvassing for the final phase in West Bengal concluded with a bitter war of words between rival parties over cross-border infiltration, corruption, unemployment and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Congress-led UDF closely monitoring CPI(M) leader's independent election bid in Kerala

Congress-led UDF closely monitoring CPI(M) leader's independent election bid in Kerala

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The Congress-led UDF is closely monitoring CPI(M) leader G Sudhakaran's decision to contest as an independent candidate in the upcoming Assembly election. UDF leaders are considering supporting Sudhakaran, while the CPI(M) expresses disappointment and denies mistreatment.

Kerala Verdict: Left's Worst Defeat

Kerala Verdict: Left's Worst Defeat

Rediff.com5 May 2026

'What we are witnessing is a massive anti-incumbency wave that has cut across all social and political divides.'

Sheikh Hasina Congratulates Suvendu Adhikari On West Bengal Win

Sheikh Hasina Congratulates Suvendu Adhikari On West Bengal Win

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Bangladesh's deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina congratulated Suvendu Adhikari on assuming office as West Bengal's Chief Minister after the BJP's victory in the state.

From hills to Jungal Mahal, TMC draws a blank in 29 Bengal districts

From hills to Jungal Mahal, TMC draws a blank in 29 Bengal districts

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The BJP achieved a clean sweep in nine districts of West Bengal, securing all 68 seats in these regions during the recent election. This victory marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape, ending the Trinamool Congress's 15-year rule and establishing the BJP's dominance.

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

New TN cabinet vows break from Dravidian-era governance

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Following the swearing-in of C Joseph Vijay as Tamil Nadu's chief minister, the new cabinet has pledged a 'white paper' audit of all state departments and a 'zero-interference' policy in administration, signalling a significant shift in governance.

Suvendu aide's murder likely to fuel post-poll violence in Bengal

Suvendu aide's murder likely to fuel post-poll violence in Bengal

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The murder of a close aide to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari in West Bengal has ignited post-election violence, raising concerns about political stability and the transition of power.

Why BJP Calls Mamata Banerjee A 'Symbol Of Anarchy'

Why BJP Calls Mamata Banerjee A 'Symbol Of Anarchy'

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

The BJP has criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, calling her a 'symbol of anarchy' after the Supreme Court questioned her actions during an ED search. The party claims her 'jungle raj' will end with the TMC's defeat in the upcoming assembly polls.

Bengal polls: Can BJP breach Mamata's southern stronghold this time?

Bengal polls: Can BJP breach Mamata's southern stronghold this time?

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

West Bengal's final phase of assembly elections focuses on the TMC's southern stronghold, where the BJP aims to make inroads. The outcome will determine whether Mamata Banerjee's party retains its dominance or if the BJP can secure a path to power.

Cong keeps Kerala CM decision under wraps after key meet

Cong keeps Kerala CM decision under wraps after key meet

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan said the party high command was likely to take a final decision on Kerala's next CM within 24 hours as lobbying intensifies among the three top contenders for the chief minister's post.

Kerala CM Deadlock Exposes Congress Weakness

Kerala CM Deadlock Exposes Congress Weakness

Rediff.com13 May 2026

In a state known for high political literacy and ideological mobilisation, the Congress' inability to quickly settle on a leader after securing a massive mandate has fed a narrative that the party remains excessively dependent on Delhi, deeply faction-ridden and vulnerable to internal sabotage

Congress picks Satheesan as next Kerala CM; swearing-in on May 18

Congress picks Satheesan as next Kerala CM; swearing-in on May 18

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Congress party has announced VD Satheesan as the next chief minister of Kerala, ending days of speculation. The decision was revealed at a press conference in New Delhi.

SC observations on ED raids a 'serious indictment' of Mamata: BJP

SC observations on ED raids a 'serious indictment' of Mamata: BJP

Rediff.com15 Jan 2026

The BJP has criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee following Supreme Court observations regarding obstructions during ED raids at I-PAC premises, alleging abuse of power and shielding of those accused of corruption.

Drama outside EVM room in Kolkata: TMC alleges tampering, EC rejects claim

Drama outside EVM room in Kolkata: TMC alleges tampering, EC rejects claim

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

TMC leaders Kunal Ghosh and Shashi Panja staged a sit-in protest alleging irregular activities inside a strongroom housing EVMs in West Bengal, following concerns raised by Mamata Banerjee regarding EVM security.

West Bengal elections: BJP, Left put out first list; Suvendu to take on Mamata again

West Bengal elections: BJP, Left put out first list; Suvendu to take on Mamata again

Rediff.com16 Mar 2026

The BJP has released its first list of candidates for the West Bengal assembly polls, featuring Suvendu Adhikari against Mamata Banerjee in a high-stakes electoral battle. The Left Front has also announced its initial list of candidates, setting the stage for a crucial election.

Fractured minority vote reshapes Bengal map, powers BJP surge

Fractured minority vote reshapes Bengal map, powers BJP surge

Rediff.com5 May 2026

For over a decade, the TMC's dominance in districts such as Murshidabad, Malda and Uttar Dinajpur rested on a near-complete consolidation of Muslim votes, a bloc that accounts for 50 per cent or more of the population in large parts of this belt.

SC grants anticipatory bail to Cong's Pawan Khera

SC grants anticipatory bail to Cong's Pawan Khera

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Supreme Court has granted anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in a case registered against him for alleging that Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife possessed multiple passports and undisclosed properties abroad.

From TMC insider to BJP face: How did Adhikari script this rise?

From TMC insider to BJP face: How did Adhikari script this rise?

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Suvendu Adhikari's journey from a key figure in the Trinamool Congress to a leading BJP challenger in West Bengal is a remarkable transformation. His victories, particularly against Mamata Banerjee, have positioned him as a potential chief minister, marking a significant shift in the state's political dynamics.

'2026 Could Be Warmest Year Ever Recorded'

'2026 Could Be Warmest Year Ever Recorded'

Rediff.com25 May 2026

'We should expect extreme heat, extreme rains, floods, landslides and maybe cyclones. Not just this year, in the coming year as well.'

At 89, My Father Chose Ayodhya, Varanasi, Sikkim

At 89, My Father Chose Ayodhya, Varanasi, Sikkim

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Sacred spots and soaring peaks: Bucket-listing across the heartland. Roopa Unnikrishnan and her father journey through the heart of India.

Left parties face existential crisis after Kerala drubbing

Left parties face existential crisis after Kerala drubbing

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Left Democratic Front's defeat in Kerala marks a historic moment as Left parties are without power in any state for the first time in decades, highlighting their diminishing political influence across India.

Court Ruling Highlights Rights Of Minority Institutions In Principal Appointments

Court Ruling Highlights Rights Of Minority Institutions In Principal Appointments

Rediff.com15 May 2026

A 2008 court judgment has brought renewed focus on the provisions given to minority institutions in choosing their heads, amid a fresh tussle between Delhi University and St Stephen's College over the appointment of the college principal.

Why Mamata Banerjee Is Confident Of TMC's West Bengal Win

Why Mamata Banerjee Is Confident Of TMC's West Bengal Win

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee asserted that the TMC will return to power for a fourth term, urging opposition parties to unite against the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre. She criticised the BJP's chargesheet against the TMC and alleged corruption in the Haldia dock complex. Banerjee also questioned Prime Minister Modi's claim of being the BJP candidate in all West Bengal seats.

Can't have fishing inquiry: SC on alleged voter additions in WB

Can't have fishing inquiry: SC on alleged voter additions in WB

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court declined to initiate an inquiry into alleged voter roll irregularities in West Bengal, stating it would amount to a 'fishing inquiry'. The court's decision came after concerns were raised about the addition of a significant number of voters ahead of the state's Assembly elections.

Did split in minority votes help BJP in Bengal?

Did split in minority votes help BJP in Bengal?

Rediff.com5 May 2026

A significant 7.87 per cent increase in the BJP's vote share in West Bengal, reaching 45.84 per cent, propelled the party to secure an additional 130 assembly seats, bringing their total to 207, while the Trinamool Congress experienced a 7.22 per cent decline, losing 135 seats and falling to 80.

Nitish Kumar steps down, makes way for BJP-Led government in Bihar

Nitish Kumar steps down, makes way for BJP-Led government in Bihar

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has resigned, dissolving his cabinet and paving the way for a potential BJP-led government in the state. The BJP, the largest party in the assembly, is set to elect its legislature party leader.

'Vijay Hasn't Displaced The Dravidian Frame. He Has Tried To Repossess It'

'Vijay Hasn't Displaced The Dravidian Frame. He Has Tried To Repossess It'

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'Vijay did not defeat Dravidian politics from outside. He entered the Dravidian field and claimed ownership of it. 'His argument was not that the room should be destroyed. It was that the present occupants no longer deserved to remain in it.'

Sharad Pawar admitted to Mumbai hospital

Sharad Pawar admitted to Mumbai hospital

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) president Sharad Pawar has been admitted to a private hospital in Mumbai for a health check-up.

Sanatana Dharma divides, must be 'abolished': Udhayanidhi

Sanatana Dharma divides, must be 'abolished': Udhayanidhi

Rediff.com12 May 2026

DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin reiterated his call for the abolition of Sanatana Dharma, claiming it divides people, during his maiden speech as the Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly. He also addressed concerns regarding the positioning of the Tamil invocation song in government events.

Decoding West Bengal verdict: BJP grew as TMC's organisation shrank

Decoding West Bengal verdict: BJP grew as TMC's organisation shrank

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The TMC's defeat in West Bengal signals an institutional breakdown, highlighting the collapse of its organisational core and raising questions about its sustainability beyond its top leadership.

Guwahati Court Rejects NBW Against Pawan Khera

Guwahati Court Rejects NBW Against Pawan Khera

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

'The grounds shown by the investigating officer (IO) for issuance of non-bailable warrant were 'entirely based on presumptions and conjectures, and are not supported by any material on record',' the court said.

Unnao rape case: Setback for Sengar as SC revokes suspension of life term

Unnao rape case: Setback for Sengar as SC revokes suspension of life term

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The Supreme Court overturned a Delhi High Court order that had suspended the life sentence of former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case, instructing the High Court to reconsider the plea.

Don't keep saying 'by the inspiration of CM': Suvendu to officials

Don't keep saying 'by the inspiration of CM': Suvendu to officials

Rediff.com11 May 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari has directed senior officials to ensure transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to rules in governance. He emphasised the importance of honest opinions and actions for the state's development, urging officials to restart stalled centrally sponsored schemes and implement promises from the BJP's election manifesto.