There are housewarming parties… and then there are musical housewarmings that turn into pure magic. That’s exactly what happened when Richa Sharma opened the doors of her brand-new luxurious home and decided to celebrate not with loud music or glittering guests, but with a deeply soulful “sureeli shaam.”

And the highlight was her mentor, the legendary Anup Jalota, personally leading the evening.

The singer shared warm, intimate glimpses on social media.

A musical griha pravesh filled with devotion

Richa Sharma marked her griha pravesh with a calm and melodious gathering inside her new home. In the clips she posted, Anup Jalota is seen seated comfortably, playing the harmonium and singing a range of bhajans and ghazals.

Richa herself joined in, sitting close to her mentor and singing along, creating a touching guru-shishya moment. At one point in the video, she appeared completely lost in the music, quietly absorbing every note.

 

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She captioned the post with heartfelt words: “Greh pravesh ke baad pehli Bohot he sureeli shaam, mere naye ghar ke prangan mein… by the greatest of all times, my mentor Shri Anup Jalota ji. P.s- picturessss abhi BAAKI hain …”

Richa Sharma has been a strong voice in the industry for over two decades. She became widely popular with songs like “Sajda” from My Name Is Khan, “Maahi Ve” from Kaante, and “Jag Soona Soona Lage” from Om Shanti Om.

Anup Jalota’s recent tribute to Asha Bhosle

While the housewarming grabbed attention, Anup Jalota has also been making headlines for a recent emotional tribute. The veteran singer joined hands with Anuradha Paudwal for a one-hour online musical homage dedicated to the legendary Asha Bhosle.

He shared a video on social media showing him seated on a bed, attending a video call with Paudwal. During the session, she sang iconic songs including “Abhi Na Jao Chhodkar” and the Marathi classic “Aala Aala Wara,” while both singers reminisced about Asha Bhosle’s timeless contribution to music.

Sharing the tribute, Anup Jalota wrote that it was “a heartfelt one-hour online tribute to Asha Bhosle ji, shared with the Hinduja family and dear friends,” adding that they were remembering her “timeless voice, grace and unforgettable legacy.”

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The festive buzz around Kerala’s grand temple season suddenly turned heavy, and the film world didn’t stay silent. What should have been days of celebrations became a moment of grief after a deadly blast in Thrissur. Soon, messages of shock began pouring in and one of the first voices came from Malayalam megastar Mammootty.

Taking to X, Mammootty wrote that he was shocked to hear about the tragic incident in Thrissur. He added that his heart went out to the family of the deceased and offered sincere prayers for those who were injured.

Shocked to hear about the tragic incident in Thrissur. My heart goes out to the family of the deceased. Sincere prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured.

— Mammootty (@mammukka) April 21, 2026

Soon after, another familiar face from Malayalam cinema, and now politics, Suresh Gopi also reacted. The Minister of State for Tourism & Petroleum and Natural Gas expressed deep pain over the explosion at the firecracker unit in Mundathikode, Thrissur.

Deeply pained by the tragic explosion at the firecracker unit in Mundathikode, Thrissur.

My heart goes out to the victims and their families during this devastating time. Prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured. pic.twitter.com/M0XxlkuR53

— Suressh Gopi (@TheSureshGopi) April 21, 2026

In his post, he said his heart went out to the victims and their families during this devastating time, while praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Festival preparations turn tragic; PM announces relief

For those unaware, at least 13 people were killed and several others injured in the massive explosion that took place on Tuesday. The blast occurred at a fireworks preparation and storage shed linked to celebrations for Thrissur Pooram, one of India’s most celebrated temple festivals.

The explosion reportedly triggered a huge fire. Thick smoke spread across the area, causing panic among workers and nearby residents.

തൃശൂരിലെ പടക്ക നിർമാണശാലയിലുണ്ടായ അപകടത്തിൽ നിരവധി ജീവനുകൾ പൊലിഞ്ഞ വാർത്തയറിഞ്ഞതിൽ ദുഃഖമുണ്ട്. പ്രിയപ്പെട്ടവരെ നഷ്ടപ്പെട്ടവരുടെ വേദനയിൽ പങ്കുചേരുന്നു. പരിക്കേറ്റവർ എത്രയും വേഗം സുഖം പ്രാപിക്കട്ടെ: പ്രധാനമന്ത്രി @narendramodi.

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 21, 2026

Condolences also came from the country’s top leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as profoundly tragic and said he was anguished by the loss of lives. The tragedy, he noted, has cast a shadow over the region ahead of the upcoming festival.

He also announced financial relief: Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the next of kin of each deceased, and Rs 50,000 for those injured.

Ajith Kumar has just flown back from Europe, and the timing had people talking. The actor had been busy racing in Belgium, yet he made sure to land in Chennai before voting day.

The actor had travelled to Belgium to participate in the intense endurance race at the legendary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. The event, the 24H Series GT3 Pro-Am, demands long hours, coordination, and stamina.

Despite the demanding schedule, he returned to India before the Tamil Nadu State Assembly elections set for Thursday. Videos of him exiting the Chennai airport surfaced quickly, showing him quietly walking out without stopping.

Observers pointed out that this is not unusual. Ajith Kumar has a track record of planning his travel in a way that allows him to be back in time to vote. And this time, his close friend and colleague Vijay is contesting.

Racing weekend ends with second-place finish

 

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Before the flight back, his team, Ajith Kumar Racing, had already wrapped up a major weekend. The team secured a second-place podium finish in the GT3 Pro-Am category at Spa-Francorchamps.

The announcement came through the team’s social media, which posted images of the podium celebration along with a short video clip. The message highlighted the P2 finish and described the result as a significant moment for the team. Pictures showed the team standing on the podium, while the short video captured the brief celebration after the race.

The actor had travelled to Belgium a week earlier to prepare for the endurance event. During that period, the team regularly shared updates of training photos, track preparation, and short clips.

Not the first podium

The recent second-place finish also connects to earlier results. Ajith Kumar Racing has previously secured podium finishes at the same circuit.

Last year, the team finished second at the Creventic Endurance Race at Spa-Francorchamps in the Porsche 992 GT3 Cup category. That result marked the third consecutive podium finish for the team in the Creventic Endurance Series.

The sequence started with a third-place finish at the Dubai Autodrome on January 11 last year. After that came another third-place finish at the Mugello Circuit on March 22, 2025. The run then continued with a podium finish again at Spa-Francorchamps.

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A senior Bharatiya Janata Party delegation on Wednesday approached the Election Commission of India, urging it to act against Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over his controversial remark describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “terrorist”.

The complaint comes at a politically sensitive time, with sharp exchanges dominating campaign rhetoric. The BJP has framed Kharge’s comment as crossing a line, arguing it goes beyond political criticism and strikes at the dignity of the Prime Minister’s office.

BJP calls remark ‘an issue for the entire nation’

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who was part of the delegation along with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, said the party met the poll panel with “grief and anger”.

“Today, a high level delegation of BJP met with the Election Commission. We have met the EC with grief and anger because normally we meet the EC for election process related work but today our delegation went for the derogatory remarks made by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is not a BJP issue but an issue for the entire nation. Calling the PM of the country, a terrorist, you can understand the level of low the Congress has touched in terms of respecting an individual and the democracy. I don’t think any political party has ever used such insulting remarks against a PM,” he stated.

Rijiju said the delegation has asked the Election Commission to initiate “strict action” and demanded that Kharge apologise to the nation.

‘PM represents the country, not a party’: Rijiju

Sharpening his attack, Rijiju said the Prime Minister represents the entire country and not just a political party.

“The PM is not just a party’s PM but a country’s PM. He has been elected as the PM of the world’s largest democracy. Congress has often made derogatory remarks against PM, whether its vile, poisonous snake, commander-in-chief, and what not. But today they crossed all boundaries. PM Narendra Modi is considered as a global leader and the ideal of democracy. We have requested the EC that if any political party uses such language, then it is not a BJP issue, but a cheap tactic in the democracy. We have thus, asked for a strict action on this and also that Kharge should apologise to the entire nation. So that no one dares to disrespect the PM of the country and that in the presence of EC, no political party can make such remarks,” he added.

Election Commission takes cognisance

According to Rijiju, the Election Commission has acknowledged the complaint and indicated that the matter will be examined.

“The EC has taken cognisance of the matter. We have been assured that an investigation will be done in the matter,” he said.

Rijiju also drew a sharp political line, asserting that the government under Modi would continue to act firmly against terrorism while voters would respond to the Congress politically.

“The investigation that EC has to do is different. But the terrorist who fight against our country will be finished under the leadership of same PM Modi, who has been called a terrorist. The public will punish the Congress, as PM Modi will punish the terrorists,” he said.

What Kharge said in Tamil Nadu speech

The controversy traces back to Kharge’s speech on the final day of campaigning in Tamil Nadu, where he criticised the AIADMK for aligning with the BJP and made pointed remarks about the Prime Minister.

“I also thank the Tamil Nadu people who have given MPs to us, that’s why we were able to fight and defeat the bill. This is the land of scientific thinking and ideals of Periyar, Dr. Ambedkar, Annadurai, great Kamaraj and Karunanidhi. These people stood for this women’s reservation, justice, equality, and fraternity. Modi is not for these principles and one more thing I want to tell how this AIADMK people who themselves put the photo of Annadurai, how can they join with Modi who is a terrorist and who won’t believe in equality, his party won’t believe in equality and justice and these people are joining with them, it means that they are weakening democracy, they are weakening the philosophy of Annadurai, Kamaraj, Periyar and Karunanidhi and Babasaheb Ambedkar. The Congress-DMK alliance will continue to deliver welfare, inclusive growth, quality education and accessible healthcare,” Kharge had said.

A special court of the National Investigation Agency has handed down seven-year jail terms to seven men, including alleged Lashkar-e-Taiba operative T Naseer, in a case that exposed how radicalisation and terror plotting were being carried out from inside a Bengaluru prison.

What has unsettled investigators is not just the crime, but the method. Officials say the group was quietly working to influence fellow inmates, turning the prison space into a recruitment ground and building a network aimed at pushing extremist activities beyond its walls.

According to the NIA, the accused had pleaded guilty to charges linked to case RC-28/2023/NIA/DLI. Along with Naseer, those convicted include Mohammed Faisal Rabbani, Zahid Tabrez, Syed Suhail Khan, Syed Mudassir Pasha, Mohammed Umar, and Salman Khan. Each of them has also been fined Rs 48,000 under provisions of the IPC, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Arms Act and Explosives Substances Act.

Plot hatched inside Bengaluru central prison

Investigators said the conspiracy was orchestrated within the Parappana Agrahara Central Prison in Bengaluru, where Naseer was lodged. The plan allegedly involved identifying vulnerable inmates, radicalising them and preparing them for terror-related operations in India, furthering the agenda of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba.

The case was first registered by the Bengaluru Central Crime Branch in July 2023 after arms, ammunition and digital devices were seized from individuals suspected of planning attacks in the city. The probe was later handed over to the NIA after indications of a wider conspiracy emerged.

Escape plan and wider network uncovered

During the investigation, the agency uncovered a parallel plan to facilitate Naseer’s escape while he was being escorted from prison to court. Naseer, a life convict in multiple terror cases, was also an undertrial in the 2008 Bengaluru serial blast case at the time.

The NIA subsequently filed a chargesheet against 11 accused and one absconding suspect, identified as Junaid Ahmed. Efforts are ongoing to trace and arrest him.

In a significant development, one of the convicts, Salman Khan, was brought back to India after being extradited from the Republic of Rwanda through coordinated action between Indian and Rwandan authorities.

Concerns over prison radicalisation flagged earlier

Officials indicated that the methods used in the case resembled earlier instances of extremist networking inside prisons, particularly in sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir.

The issue of inmate radicalisation had also been highlighted by the Union Home Ministry in January 2023, which advised prison authorities across states to conduct de-radicalisation programmes and segregate inmates showing tendencies to influence others.

“The jail administration has to ensure that inmates inclined towards propagating the ideology of radicalisation and those who have the propensity and potential to negatively influence other inmates are housed in separate enclosures away from other inmates,” a letter by Deputy Secretary Arun Sobti had read.

A fresh intelligence assessment from the Pentagon has raised questions over the US administration’s claims about weakening Iran’s military, even as President Donald Trump announced a last-minute extension of the ceasefire with Tehran following an appeal from Pakistan’s leadership.

The development puts two parallel tracks in focus: a gap between internal US intelligence findings and public statements by top officials, and a renewed diplomatic pause in a tense standoff that has already seen failed negotiations and threats of escalation.

According to a report by NBC News, the Pentagon’s defence intelligence wing has concluded that Iran continues to retain its “key military capabilities”, suggesting that recent operations have not significantly eroded its core strength. The findings directly contrast with earlier remarks by Trump and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who had indicated that Tehran’s forces had suffered irreversible damage.

US intelligence assessment contradicts earlier claims

The intelligence report underlines that the Iranian military remains a formidable regional force despite recent engagements. This stands in sharp contrast to claims by the administration that Iran’s “air force has been destroyed” and its “navy decimated”, as cited in the NBC News report.

The assessment adds to growing scrutiny over the accuracy of public messaging from Washington at a time when military and diplomatic calculations remain tightly intertwined.

Trump extends ceasefire, keeps blockade in place

Amid these internal assessments, Trump confirmed that the ceasefire with Iran would be extended, just hours before its expiry. The decision followed what he described as a direct request from Pakistan’s leadership.

Calling the Iranian leadership “seriously fractured,” Trump said the maritime blockade on Iranian ports would continue until Tehran presents a “unified proposal” for negotiations.

In a post on Truth Social, he said the US had “been asked to hold our Attack on the Country of Iran until such time as their leaders and representatives can come up with a unified proposal.”

He added that he had “directed our Military to continue the Blockade and, in all other respects, remain ready and able,” making it clear that the pause in hostilities was conditional and temporary.

Tehran rejects US move, signals escalation

The extension drew an immediate pushback from Tehran. Mahdi Mohammadi, adviser to Iran’s parliament speaker, dismissed the move, asserting that the “losing side cannot dictate terms.”

He said the extension “means nothing” and called for a stronger military response against US forces. In a post on X, Mohammadi stated that “Trump’s extension of the ceasefire means nothing” as the “losing side cannot set the terms.”

He further argued that “continuing the siege is no different from bombing and must be responded to militarily,” warning that the move could be an attempt to buy time for a surprise strike. “It is time for Iran to take the initiative,” he added.

Talks in Islamabad failed to deliver breakthrough

The current situation follows the collapse of earlier diplomatic efforts, including a prolonged round of negotiations held in Islamabad. The talks, which lasted 21 hours, failed to produce a long-term agreement between the two sides, leaving the conflict unresolved and tensions high.

With intelligence reports saying one thing, leaders projecting another, and military realities adding their own pressure, the situation remains tense and unclear, with neither side willing to step back.

Amid intense heat, Zirat Colony High School has taken an innovative initiative to promote awareness about good health and eating habits among students.

With temperatures soaring, today’s mid-day meal menu featured soaked rice, water infused with fragrant Gandharaj lemon leaves, potato chokha, egg bhujia, and a mango-based tadka prepared using fruit from the school’s own trees.

Although the weekly menu usually includes egg rice, the school introduced this special summer-friendly traditional meal keeping in mind the rising temperatures and their impact on schoolchildren.

According to the school authorities, the primary objective was to convey that soaked rice is beneficial in keeping the body cool while maintaining nutritional value during summer.

The initiative generated enthusiasm among students. Several of them, including Ayantika, Megha Saha, Bartik Shil and Taras Tudu, relished the meal and remarked that the new menu was preferable to items such as chowmein, biryani or meat-based preparations.

Acting headmaster Dr Abdul Sharif Shek said: “We want the mid-day meal to be seen not merely as food, but as a learning process related to food science and healthy dietary habits, including their role in regulating bodily functions.”

The initiative was led by teachers Sameer Chakraborty, Satyaki Banerjee and others.

School president Partha Chatterjee said: “During summer, soaked rice helps keep the body cool, aids digestion and provides energy. Our aim is to pass on this traditional food habit to the younger generation.”

Trinamul Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Tuesday invoked “CPM’s terror days” in Bhatar, warning that a vote for the BJP would revive similar conditions.

Addressing an election rally at Alinagar Stadium in support of TMC’s Bhatar candidate Shantanu Konar, Mr Banerjee spoke with Sagari Mallick, widow of Toton Mallick. Toton Mallick was killed in a CPI-M bomb attack during the 10 January, 2010 school managing committee election at Bonpash Railway Station Shiksha Niketan. Sagari, now employed at a cooperative society, told Mr Banerjee that she struggles to run her household on a low income. He assured her that he would “arrange something” for her.

Speaking to the gathering, Mr Banerjee said that Bhatar’s BJP candidate Soumen Karfa had links to the CPI-M. “CPM sent him. So, one vote for the BJP means bringing back CPM’s terror-filled black days,” he said. He further alleged that CPI-M “harmads” across all 16 gram panchayats in Bhatar had switched allegiance to the BJP, urging voters to ensure that their deposits were forfeited.

Referring to Shantanu Konar, Mr Banerjee said, “He has worked with me for a long time. He is a tested organiser and a capable politician.” He appealed to voters to secure a victory margin of 40,000 votes.

Mr Banerjee highlighted the TMC government’s initiatives in Bhatar since 2011, including the establishment of a degree college, a Kisan Mandi, road development under the Pathashree scheme, and the implementation of welfare schemes such as Lakshmir Bhandar, Yuva Sathi and Krishak Bandhu. He also promised that, if elected, Mr Konar would begin work on a cold storage facility for farmers in Bhatar within three months, addressing a key local demand.

Attack on BJP

In a sharp attack, Mr Banerjee said, “No gentleman or educated person joins the BJP. Only thieves, fraudsters, cheats and miscreants go there.” He added that the BJP government had “made everyone stand in queue,” urging voters to respond by standing in line to vote. He asked the electorate to “press button No. 2” for Mr Konar and deliver a “strong democratic response” to the BJP and the CPI-M.

Also present at the meeting were Katwa TMC candidate and district party president Rabindranath Chattopadhyay, Mangalkot candidate and party chairman Apurba Chowdhury, and Kirti Azad, MP from Bardhaman-Durgapur.

The Election Commission of India today in a directive asked the law enforcing agencies responsible for manning the polling booths for the upcoming polls on 23 and 29 April to arrest the alleged “fake” voters found to have been indulging in electoral malpractices in the form of “false” voting. Earlier, such offenders were let off after a warning. The offender can be imprisoned for up to a maximum of six months.

Furthermore, in another directive, the Commission today asked all the officers in-charge (OCs) of district police stations to submit a written undertaking swearing of strict adherence to the Commission’s guidelines on maintaining “silence period”. The said undertaking would have to be routed to the state CEO office by 9 p.m. tonight.

Moreover, the poll panel this time has entrusted the CAPF personnel with the onus to maintain security within 100 metres of the polling booths, thus reducing the state police’s role to maintaining queues waiting for their turn to cast their ballots.

On the issue of certification by the OCs on silence period, the ECI guidelines said that as the silence period starts 48 hours before the polling gets underway, the Commission is empowered by the Section of the 1951 Representation of the People’s Act to issue strictures on maintenance of the silence period. It prohibits any campaigning or airing of public views.

The CAPF roles in this year’s polling are going to be more specific after a meeting with all the DGs of the central agencies such as the BSF, CISF, CRPF and ITBP. There was also emphasis on better coordination and following the standard operating procedures.

For the 23 April polling in the first phase, 2,407 companies of CAPF personnel would be deployed, while in the second phase almost the same number of companies of the Central Armed Police Force would be deployed. In Kolkata alone, there would be 250 companies of CAPF personnel on duty on polling day, 29 April.

According to the Commission structure, this time a half a section of the CAPF personnel means four CAPF jawans would be deployed at each polling station, while at polling stations, where there is more number of booths, the section would increase to two.

A fire broke out at a multi-storey hospital in Salt Lake, a posh satellite township in Kolkata’s north-east fringes on Tuesday morning.

No injuries or casualties have been reported.

According to fire officials, smoke was seen rising from the first floor of Anandalok Hospital, located in the Karunamoyee locality, at around 10 a.m. Hospital authorities quickly alerted the fire and emergency services upon noticing the situation.

Three fire engines were dispatched to the scene to bring the blaze under control, a senior officer confirmed. Firefighters acted promptly to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further within the building.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and further investigation is expected.

The fire broke out in DK Block of Ward 29 of Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation (BMC) around 9.30 a.m. No patient was injured, said sources. BMC Mayor Krishna Chakraborty said she contacted the fire minister, Sujit Bose, who immediately instructed the fire brigade and local boys to douse the fire and assured them of proper help after talking to the hospital authorities.

In an effort to make the election in West Bengal free from any kind of threats or intimidation, fair and transparent, the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal, has imposed strict restrictions on the use of motorcycles.

In a notification issued by the Commission on 20 April, the Commission made it clear that no motorcycle rallies will be allowed from 48 hours before polling day.

Sources in the Commission said that it had been noticed that the political parties conduct bike rallies after the campaigning ends but in many cases, it has been found that the voters are threatened in the pretext of rallies.

“The Commission will not allow any kind of intimidation to the voters in this election and so bike rallies have been banned,” an Election Commission of India official said.

Additionally, movement of motorbikes will be completely restricted between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. during this period, except in cases of emergency such as medical needs or essential family requirements.

The order further states that from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the same period, pillion riding will not be permitted, barring exceptional circumstances like medical emergencies or essential duties such as transporting school children.

On the day of polling, however, limited relaxation will be allowed, with family pillion riding permitted between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. for voting and essential purposes.

Officials have been directed to widely publicise these restrictions and ensure strict enforcement in coordination with the district police administration.

The move is aimed at preventing intimidation, unlawful mobilisation, and any disruption to the electoral process during the crucial 48-hour silence period before voting.

After neighbouring states such as Assam, Tripura and Odisha, West Bengal will also form a BJP-led government, said Union home minister Amit Shah at Kulti today, adding, “Mamata Didi, your time is finished.”

“This election in West Bengal is not to choose a BJP candidate as the next MLA, nor merely to make a BJP leader the Chief Minister, but to free the state from infiltrators,” Mr Shah said at Asansol.

He was addressing a campaign rally in support of BJP candidate Dr Ajoy Poddar for the Kulti Assembly seat.

Alleging that such infiltrators were being supported, he urged voters to help the BJP win the polls, stating that from 5 May the next government would begin identifying and deporting them.

He further said that the Election Commission of India (ECI) had deployed the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and warned that if any “TMC goonda” engaged in unlawful activities on polling day, 23 April, a BJP-led government after 4 May would identify and arrest those responsible.

“The first task of the next government will be to act against the mafia in the state and end the syndicate raj,” he alleged. Mr Shah claimed that even small quantities of construction materials could not be used without paying levies to TMC-linked syndicates operating locally.

Raising concerns about women’s safety, he criticised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, alleging that women were not safe under her administration. “Mamata Didi, your time is finished. A new government under the leadership of Narendra Modi will be formed,” he said. He added that the new government would ensure women’s safety, claiming that women would be able to move freely even late at night without fear.

Referring to Kulti’s industrial heritage, Mr Shah noted that Asia’s first iron and steel foundry had been established there over a century ago, but alleged that misgovernance, under the TMC had led to its decline. “We will make Kulti an iron hub once again. Illegal mining will be stopped, pollution from sponge iron units will be controlled, and employment opportunities will be created,” he said.

He also promised the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code, along with the establishment of a Seventh Pay Commission and a Dearness Allowance structure under a BJP government. He added that corruption during the 15 years of TMC rule would be investigated and strict action taken.

A team of polling personnel, equipped with essential materials, including an additional EVM, on Tuesday set out for one of the most remote polling stations under the Darjeeling Assembly constituency, located at an altitude of around 1,300 metres in the Himalayas.

According to Darjeeling Sub-Divisional Officer B Roy, the polling station No 4 has a total of 191 voters. To reach the booth, the team will have to undertake a trek of over 10 kilometres through difficult hilly terrain.

Officials said the team will halt on Tuesday night at polling station No 3, Ramman Forest Village Primary School, before proceeding on Wednesday to polling station No 4, Samanden Forest Village Primary School. The two locations are about eight km apart, with no motorable road connectivity, requiring personnel to carry all polling materials on foot.

Polling for the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections is scheduled for 23 April.

Official sources said that while there were earlier three such remote polling stations in the Darjeeling segment, a steady decline in population has reduced the number to just one, where 191 voters will cast their ballots. Although the area previously lacked electricity, power supply has now been restored.

The location falls within a communication “shadow zone”, but the administration is attempting to arrange Wi-Fi connectivity to enable monitoring of the polling process. Central forces, already deployed in the area, will join the polling team to ensure security.

Established in 1971, Samanden Forest Village Primary School is a government-run primary institution under the department of education. The co-educational school, which offers Classes I to IV in English medium, operates from a government building with five classrooms in good condition.

Despite its accessibility by an all-weather road, the school lacks several basic amenities, including a boundary wall, electricity connection, and a reliable source of drinking water. However, it has functional toilets for boys and girls, as well as a playground, reflecting both the infrastructural challenges and resilience of institutions in the remote hills of Darjeeling.

Union home minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, holding her responsible for the alleged exclusion of several names during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Addressing an election rally at Sukna near Siliguri, in support of BJP candidates from Darjeeling, Kurseong and Kalimpong constituencies, Shah claimed that many Gorkha voters were removed from the rolls during the revision process under the state government’s watch. He asserted that once the Bharatiya Janata Party comes to power in West Bengal, such names would be restored.

Shah alleged that successive governments led by the Congress, CPI-M and the Trinamul Congress had neglected Darjeeling, and said only the BJP could offer a lasting solution to the region’s long-standing issues.

Referring to the Gorkha issue, he said the Chief Minister had failed to attend meetings in Delhi despite repeated requests. An interlocutor had since been appointed and a report prepared, based on which the BJP would address the aspirations and demands of the Gorkha people within the constitutional framework after forming the government.

He further said that politically motivated cases registered during the Gorkha movement would be withdrawn. “We will resolve the Gorkha issue in such a way that people will not need to agitate again,” he added.

Highlighting the party’s manifesto, Shah outlined a series of development initiatives for the region, including the establishment of AIIMS, IIT and IIM, along with a sports university for the Gorkha community, a tribal university and a forest research institute.

“Promotion of Darjeeling as an eco major adventure and heritage tourism hub will be undertaken to unlock its vast potential, create employment opportunities for local youth, and boost the region’s overall economic growth,” Shah said.

He also spoke of infrastructure development, including the upgrade of New Jalpaiguri railway station, and claimed that future bullet train connectivity would link Siliguri with the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

On the tea sector, Shah said the BJP would revitalise tea gardens and raise the daily wages of workers to above Rs 500. He added that an inquiry would be initiated into alleged corruption in the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration after the party assumes power.

Responding to allegations that a BJP government would discontinue state welfare schemes, Shah assured that no such programmes would be stopped. Instead, he said, central schemes would be implemented alongside them. He also promised a monthly assistance of Rs 3,000 each for women and unemployed youth, and free bus travel for women.

A few kilometres past the city limits along the Basanti Highway, a modest tea stall with tinned roof offers a telling snapshot of Bhangar’s political reality. Party flags of both the Indian Secular Front (ISF) and Trinamul Congress flutter side by side. Ask for directions to Chaltaberia, and the shopkeeper, after a quick glance at the “Press” sticker on the car, quips: “You’re heading where the bombs went off, right?”

In Bhangar, such responses are not unusual. Locals have grown accustomed to identifying official vehicles as harbingers of trouble ~ clashes, crude bomb explosions, or worse. Violence has long defined the constituency’s political narrative, and even as another Assembly election looms, the heat shows little sign of dissipating. The constituency gained prominence in 2021 when ISF opened its account in the Assembly, with Nausad Siddiqui defeating the Trinamul candidate. Siddiqui secured approximately 1,09,000 votes, while Trinamul polled around 83,000, giving ISF a margin of nearly 26,000 votes, a significant upset that altered the local political equation.

However, Siddiqui’s victory has not translated into a perceptible shift in law and order, allege residents. On the contrary, many claim that incidents of violence have increased. The state administration, aware of Bhangar’s volatile reputation, initiated a major policing overhaul in 2024. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee brought nearly 125 sq km of Bhangar under the jurisdiction of Kolkata Police, creating a new division with six police stations and a dedicated traffic guard. According to Lalbazar sources, the move has yielded results. Internal assessments suggest a 27 per cent decline in overall crime and a 37 per cent drop in accidents since the transition. A separate detective wing has also been set up, intensifying surveillance on known troublemakers. Yet, police insiders attribute Bhangar’s unrest less to conventional crime and more to entrenched political rivalries.

At the heart of this conflict lies a prolonged turf war ~ on one side the ISF, and on the other, networks once controlled by Arabul Islam, a dominant figure in the area’s political landscape for years. Interestingly, Arabul has now switched allegiance to the ISF ahead of the upcoming polls, adding another layer of complexity. Siddiqui, however, dismisses allegations against his camp. “Those behind the violence are Trinamul-backed miscreants. Police records will confirm this. I have consistently raised people’s issues both inside and outside the Assembly,” he maintains. The ruling party counters sharply. Trinamul leaders equate ISF’s strategies with that of the BJP, accusing both of relying on religious polarisation. With an eye on reclaiming lost ground, the party has fielded Saokat Molla, a sitting MLA from Canning East.

Tasked with unseating Siddiqui, Molla asserts, “Bhangar’s identity has been reduced to bomb and gun politics. People are tired of it. This election will bring change, driven by development.” Electoral arithmetic offers a nuanced picture. In 2016, Trinamul commanded nearly 50 per cent vote share, which dropped to around 34 per cent in 2021, paving the way for ISF’s victory.

The BJP, though increasing its share from 4 per cent in 2016 to about 17 per cent in 2021, remains a marginal player in terms of winning prospects. As Bhangar heads into another election, the contest appears largely bipolar. For Trinamul, the challenge lies in consolidating its lost vote bank. For ISF, retaining its foothold amid rising administrative intervention will be the key. For the voters in Bhangar, the choice may ultimately hinge on a simple question: whether the next mandate can finally replace the echo of explosions with the promise of stability.

As the portals of Kedarnath Dham opened on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon pilgrims visiting Uttarakhand to maintain cleanliness, support the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative by purchasing indigenous products, and adhere strictly to rules and regulations throughout the Char Dham Yatra.

The opening of Kedarnath Dham took place amid Vedic chants and resonating cheers of “Har Har Mahadev”, marking a key moment in the annual pilgrimage season and allowing devotees to offer prayers at one of Hinduism’s most revered shrines.

Devotees from across the country gathered in large numbers to witness the occasion and seek blessings at the sacred temple.

In a letter addressed to the nation, the Prime Minister said, “The Char Dham Yatra has commenced on the sacred soil of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. On April 19, the portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham opened, and starting today, the pilgrimage to Kedarnath Dham begins. On April 23, the portals of Badrinath Dham will also open for devotees.”

Describing the spiritual significance of the journey, he said, “This sacred pilgrimage to the four Dhams — marked by the mere ‘darshan’ of Baba Kedar — is a magnificent celebration of India’s rich cultural consciousness. Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya gave a new direction to Indian culture through his pilgrimages to Badrinath and Kedarnath. Jagadguru Ramanujacharya and Guru Gorakhnath, too, strengthened this rich spiritual tradition through their travels and stays in the region.”

The Prime Minister noted that the four Dhams “remain the focal points of our eternal faith” and bring together people from every corner of the country.

“People representing every language, diversity, tradition, and culture come together as one, further realising the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’. Through this pilgrimage, we expand the scope of our nation’s traditions,” he said.

Referring to ancient scriptures, he highlighted that undertaking the Char Dham Yatra is believed to carry immense spiritual merit, equivalent to visiting multiple pilgrimage sites over several years.

Emphasising development, he said that a ‘Viksit Uttarakhand’ is crucial for achieving the broader goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’.

“A few years ago, we were all deeply distressed by the calamity that struck at the very doorstep of Baba Kedar. However, today, Uttarakhand is continuously forging ahead on a new path of development. The state is currently setting new benchmarks in the fields of tourism, spirituality, and economic progress,” he said.

He added that improved infrastructure has made the pilgrimage more accessible and secure. “Thanks to improved roads, healthcare services, and communication facilities, the overall experience for pilgrims has also significantly improved,” he noted.

At the same time, he stressed the need to preserve the region’s ecological balance.

“Efforts are being made to promote tourism while simultaneously safeguarding Uttarakhand’s rich natural heritage. I would also like to urge every pilgrim visiting Uttarakhand to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings throughout this journey. Instead of travelling in private vehicles, please utilise public transport, and support the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative by purchasing local products,” he said.

For the Char Dham Yatra, the Prime Minister urged devotees to follow key principles such as cleanliness, environmental sensitivity, cooperation, and discipline.

“Maintain cleanliness at the Dhams and along the pilgrimage routes. Contribute your share towards keeping the rivers clean. Refrain from using single-use plastics and uphold the sanctity of these holy shrines,” he said.

He further called for mindful travel in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. “Undertake your journey with due regard for the fragile ecology of the Himalayas. Contribute to environmental conservation through initiatives such as ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’,” he added.

Highlighting the broader spirit of the pilgrimage, he said it is “not merely about seeking darshan, but also a means to foster a spirit of service and social harmony”.

“Even today, people continue to render selfless service without any discrimination. Initiatives such as ‘Yatra Marg Seva’ inspire us to step forward and assist others,” he said.

He also encouraged pilgrims to support local livelihoods. “Prioritise local products during your travels. Support local artisans and businesses, thereby strengthening their livelihoods,” he said.

Calling for responsible conduct, he added, “Abide by the rules and regulations of the pilgrimage. Respect the security protocols and conduct yourself as a responsible citizen throughout your journey.”

Recalling his personal experience, the Prime Minister said, “I recently had the privilege of visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath Dham myself. The experiences I had there left me deeply overwhelmed. I am confident that all of you, too, will have a truly wonderful spiritual experience during this pilgrimage. I extend my warmest wishes to you all for this sacred journey.”

Independent MP Pappu Yadav on Tuesday triggered a major political storm with a controversial claim that “70-80% of politicians watch porn”, even as his earlier remarks alleging exploitation of women in politics drew widespread outrage.

The controversy comes amid a sharp divide in Parliament over the implementation of women’s reservation, with the proposed rollout now tied to delimitation and unlikely before the 2029 general elections.

Addressing reporters in Purnia on Monday, Yadav had first flagged what he described as deep-rooted discrimination against women in public life, questioning the gap between symbolic reverence and real power.

“…In India, women are called goddesses, but they will never be respected here. System and society are responsible for this…90% of women cannot do politics without entering the room of politicians,” he said.

He also maintained that marginalised communities continue to lack adequate representation in positions of authority.

Remarks snowball into bigger political flashpoint

The row escalated further in Malda, where Yadav doubled down with a series of provocative claims, questioning those who had issued notices to him and widening his attack on political leaders.

“…I have said this on the Floor of the House too that 70-80% of the politicians watch porn. So, get everyone checked. If there is porn on my phone, check me too…Who are these people who have served me a notice? Who are they with? There are several photos with former ministers. People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones…” he said.

Reiterating his earlier stand, Yadav insisted that women face systemic exploitation within politics and defended his remarks despite the backlash.

“I had said that male politicians do not let women enter politics without exploiting them. Is that incorrect?…I am fighting women’s fight…They exploit women…There is sexual exploitation against 755 male politicians and there are chargesheets against 155…The whole of India is tainted. If I speak of male politicians, why are they (Women’s Commission) troubled?…These politicians exploit women and then they speak of Women’s Reservation Bill…” he added.

Women’s reservation debate adds to backdrop

Yadav’s comments come at a time when the Constitution Amendment Bill on women’s reservation has been at the centre of intense political debate in the Lok Sabha.

The proposal to implement reservation from the 2029 elections, linked to the Delimitation Bill, has faced strong opposition, particularly over plans to increase Lok Sabha seats and base delimitation on the 2011 census.

In the division that followed the debate, 298 members voted in favour of the Constitution Amendment Bill, while 230 opposed it.