News for 'phase 2 polling'

BJP storms to power in Bengal, ends Mamata's 15-year rule

BJP storms to power in Bengal, ends Mamata's 15-year rule

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party has surged past the halfway mark in the West Bengal assembly elections, leading in 185 seats against the Trinamool Congress's 91, signalling a potential political shift in the state. Early trends suggest a geographically split mandate, with the BJP gaining in border, tribal, and industrial regions, while the TMC holds ground in parts of Kolkata and select rural strongholds.

Amit Shah Promises To End Infiltration If BJP Wins Bengal

Amit Shah Promises To End Infiltration If BJP Wins Bengal

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted that the BJP would not allow any intruders into West Bengal if they win the state election, and would selectively root out illegal immigrants already present.

Rahul Gandhi Targets CPI(M) and BJP in Kerala Poll Campaign

Rahul Gandhi Targets CPI(M) and BJP in Kerala Poll Campaign

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi intensified the UDF's campaign for the Kerala polls, accusing the CPI(M) of stealing gold from the Sabarimala temple and questioning PM Modi's silence on the issue. He also addressed concerns about rubber prices and the FCRA amendments.

Bengal polls: RG Kar doc's mother among 19 named in BJP's third list

Bengal polls: RG Kar doc's mother among 19 named in BJP's third list

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The BJP has nominated the mother of a victim in the RG Kar case from Panihati constituency for the upcoming West Bengal elections, aiming to leverage public outrage over the incident. This move is part of a broader strategy to challenge the ruling TMC by highlighting issues of women's safety and governance.

Mamata Banerjee Alleges Car Search Attempt by Central Forces

Mamata Banerjee Alleges Car Search Attempt by Central Forces

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused central forces of attempting to search her car while en route to Kolkata airport, alleging misuse of central machinery by the BJP ahead of state elections.

EC orders action over offensive social media post targeting Mamata

EC orders action over offensive social media post targeting Mamata

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The Election Commission has directed the police to take strict action regarding an objectionable social media post allegedly targeting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's confidant to archnemesis

Suvendu Adhikari: From Mamata's confidant to archnemesis

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Suvendu Adhikari's rise within the BJP in West Bengal has been marked by strategic victories and relentless opposition to the TMC, culminating in his leadership role within the party's legislative wing.

TMC Will Win Fourth Term, Says Mamata Banerjee

TMC Will Win Fourth Term, Says Mamata Banerjee

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee asserted that the TMC will return to power for a fourth consecutive term, urging opposition parties to unite against the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre.

HC rejects TMC plea on central staff for Bengal counting

HC rejects TMC plea on central staff for Bengal counting

Rediff.com1 May 2026

The Calcutta High Court dismissed a plea challenging the Election Commission's directive to deploy central government and PSU employees for vote counting in the West Bengal Assembly elections.

Amit Shah: Mamata Banerjee Shielding Infiltrators In Bengal

Amit Shah: Mamata Banerjee Shielding Infiltrators In Bengal

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of shielding infiltrators, promoting dynastic politics, and supporting the construction of a mosque resembling the Babri Masjid.

Assam, Puducherry witness historic turnout; over 78% vote in Kerala

Assam, Puducherry witness historic turnout; over 78% vote in Kerala

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Voters in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry are voting in crucial assembly elections.

Amit Shah Vows to Tackle Corruption, Infiltration in West Bengal

Amit Shah Vows to Tackle Corruption, Infiltration in West Bengal

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed rallies in Birbhum, West Bengal, promising to tackle corruption and infiltration if the BJP wins the upcoming elections. He criticised the TMC government and outlined welfare schemes for women, youth, and farmers.

Bengal SIR: Nearly 91 lakh names deleted from voter list

Bengal SIR: Nearly 91 lakh names deleted from voter list

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

The Election Commission reports a significant reduction in West Bengal's electoral rolls following a Special Intensive Revision, with nearly 9.1 million voters deleted.

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses Centre of 'Taking' from People Amid LPG Price Hike

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses Centre of 'Taking' from People Amid LPG Price Hike

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee criticises the Union government over the hike in commercial LPG prices, accusing the Centre of 'taking' from people while the Mamata Banerjee administration provides relief. He also challenged the BJP to present a report card of its work in Rajganj constituency.

BJP won't allow Babri Masjid to come up in Bengal, says Amit Shah

BJP won't allow Babri Masjid to come up in Bengal, says Amit Shah

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed poll rallies in West Bengal, attacking Mamata Banerjee's TMC and promising development if the BJP wins the state elections. He accused Banerjee of appeasement politics and vowed to prevent the construction of a Babri Masjid-like structure in Bengal.

Amit Shah Vows to Tackle Corruption, Illegal Immigration in West Bengal

Amit Shah Vows to Tackle Corruption, Illegal Immigration in West Bengal

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed poll rallies in West Bengal, promising to tackle corruption and illegal immigration if the BJP comes to power. He criticised the current TMC government and outlined the BJP's plans for the state.

Income Tax Raids Target TMC Leaders: What It Means

Income Tax Raids Target TMC Leaders: What It Means

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The Income Tax Department conducted searches at multiple locations in Kolkata, including the residence of TMC MLA Debashis Kumar and Miraj Shah, a proposer of Mamata Banerjee's candidature. The TMC alleges the raids are politically motivated.

Shah Promises Gorkha Solution, Case Withdrawals if BJP Wins Bengal

Shah Promises Gorkha Solution, Case Withdrawals if BJP Wins Bengal

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has pledged that the BJP will prioritise resolving the Gorkha issue in Darjeeling and withdraw cases against community leaders if elected in West Bengal. He criticised Mamata Banerjee's government for non-cooperation and assured a constitutional solution.

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.

Wrongly deported to B'desh, 6 Bengal men will vote to prove citizenship

Wrongly deported to B'desh, 6 Bengal men will vote to prove citizenship

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

After being wrongly deported and labelled as Bangladeshis, migrant workers in West Bengal's Murshidabad are heading to the polls to reclaim their Indian identity and fight for their right to belong.

TN polls: DMK, AIADMK allies in direct duel in 21 seats

TN polls: DMK, AIADMK allies in direct duel in 21 seats

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and Opposition All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam have allowed their allies in a direct duel in 21 constituencies in the April 23 assembly election to prove their strength in their respective strongholds.

Mamata Banerjee Claims Central Forces Searched Her Car, Questions BJP Leaders' Exemption

Mamata Banerjee Claims Central Forces Searched Her Car, Questions BJP Leaders' Exemption

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused central forces of searching her car and criticised the BJP for alleged election misconduct during a rally in Islampur, Uttar Dinajpur district.

Haryana CM Releases 2,115 Crore For Welfare Schemes

Haryana CM Releases 2,115 Crore For Welfare Schemes

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini released over 2,115 crore directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries under various welfare schemes, benefiting over 58 lakh eligible individuals.

Stars Salute Vijay's Win: 'The People Have Chosen You'

Stars Salute Vijay's Win: 'The People Have Chosen You'

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay has made a historic debut in the Tamil Nadu assembly polls, securing a landslide victory in the Perambur constituency and leading his party to a strong performance across the state, with congratulatory messages pouring in from fellow film personalities.

Bihar records highest-ever 65% turnout in first phase of polls

Bihar records highest-ever 65% turnout in first phase of polls

Rediff.com7 Nov 2025

The first phase of Bihar assembly elections saw a moderate pace of polling across 121 constituencies, with 53.77% voter turnout reported till 3 pm. Sporadic incidents of violence were also reported. Key leaders are in the fray for both the ruling NDA and the opposition INDIA bloc.

ED Investigates Punjab Realty Groups Over Fraud Allegations

ED Investigates Punjab Realty Groups Over Fraud Allegations

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at multiple locations in Punjab and Chandigarh, including premises linked to an alleged associate of a Punjab Aam Aadmi Party functionary, as part of a money laundering probe against two realty groups accused of fraudulent land use changes and investor fraud.

ED Conducts Raids In Punjab Over Realty Fraud Case

ED Conducts Raids In Punjab Over Realty Fraud Case

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at multiple locations in Punjab and Chandigarh, including premises linked to an official in the CMO, as part of a money laundering probe against realty groups accused of fraudulent land use changes and investor fraud.

Why Abhishek Banerjee Is Calling For TMC Votes In Murshidabad

Why Abhishek Banerjee Is Calling For TMC Votes In Murshidabad

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee is urging voters in Murshidabad to support the TMC to thwart the BJP's influence in West Bengal. He criticised the Congress and other parties, accusing them of indirectly supporting the BJP, and highlighted the TMC's commitment to protecting minority voters and preventing the implementation of NRC in Bengal.

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP Of False Promises

Abhishek Banerjee Accuses BJP Of False Promises

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee criticised the BJP for not fulfilling its promises to the people of West Bengal, highlighting the success and continuation of the state's 'Lakshmir Bhandar' scheme.

Bomb Blast at Nadia School Raises Pre-Election Tensions in West Bengal

Bomb Blast at Nadia School Raises Pre-Election Tensions in West Bengal

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

A crude bomb exploded on the rooftop of a school in Nadia district, West Bengal, ahead of upcoming elections, prompting investigations and political accusations.

ED Investigates Punjab Realty Groups Over Land Use Violations

ED Investigates Punjab Realty Groups Over Land Use Violations

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches in Punjab and Chandigarh, targeting realty groups and individuals linked to an official in the Chief Minister's Office, as part of a money laundering investigation into fraudulent land use changes and investor fraud.

How Mamata Banerjee Fared In Her 15 Year Rule

How Mamata Banerjee Fared In Her 15 Year Rule

Rediff.com4 May 2026

Under the TMC, Bengal has seen expansion of welfare, but not big-ticket private investment.

Why Abhishek Banerjee Says TMC Is Key To Stopping BJP

Why Abhishek Banerjee Says TMC Is Key To Stopping BJP

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee has urged voters in Murshidabad to support the TMC as the only way to defeat the BJP, claiming that other parties are indirectly aiding the BJP's influence.

Assam CM Sarma Denies BJP Will Ban Meat Consumption in West Bengal if Elected

Assam CM Sarma Denies BJP Will Ban Meat Consumption in West Bengal if Elected

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has refuted claims by the TMC that the BJP would ban meat and fish consumption if it wins the West Bengal assembly elections. Sarma clarified that only beef consumption is restricted in Assam and accused the TMC of wanting to continue cattle smuggling to Bangladesh for their own benefit.

SC rejects plea on Bengal voter deletions, directs petitioners to tribunals

SC rejects plea on Bengal voter deletions, directs petitioners to tribunals

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has declined to intervene in a petition concerning the deletion of names from voter lists in West Bengal, directing the petitioners to seek redressal through established appellate tribunals.

Trinamool Congress Condemns Arrest of I-PAC Co-founder as Electoral Sabotage

Trinamool Congress Condemns Arrest of I-PAC Co-founder as "Electoral Sabotage"

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has strongly condemned the arrest of Vinesh Chandel, co-founder of I-PAC, alleging it is a politically motivated act of "electoral sabotage" ahead of the West Bengal elections.

One in Four West Bengal Election Candidates Face Criminal Charges: Report

One in Four West Bengal Election Candidates Face Criminal Charges: Report

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) reveals that a significant number of candidates contesting the first phase of the 2026 West Bengal assembly elections have declared criminal cases against themselves.

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.

Amit Shah assures to resolve Gorkha issue without dividing Bengal

Amit Shah assures to resolve Gorkha issue without dividing Bengal

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed poll rallies in West Bengal, promising to resolve the Gorkha issue constitutionally and offering a development package for north Bengal if the BJP is voted to power.

Man Held with 1 Lakh Cash Before West Bengal Polls

Man Held with 1 Lakh Cash Before West Bengal Polls

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

A man was detained in South 24 Parganas district, West Bengal, and over 1 lakh in cash was seized from his possession during a vehicle checking drive ahead of the assembly elections.