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West Bengal Polls: BJP Crosses Majority Mark, Leads In 185 Seats; Mamata Ahead In Bhabanipur

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West Bengal Polls: BJP Crosses Majority Mark, Leads In 185 Seats; Mamata Ahead In Bhabanipur

Signalling a potential churn in West Bengal, a state long dominated by TMC’s Mamata Banerjee, the BJP surged past the halfway mark on Monday, leading in 185 assembly seats against the TMC’s 91 as counting progressed steadily, according to the Election Commission data.
With the majority mark of 148 in the 294-member House breached in early trends, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s momentum pointed to a possible breakthrough, while the ruling Trinamool Congress scrambled to close the widening gap in what has emerged as a potentially game-changing electoral battle.

The early numbers, indicating a possible outcome that could reshape the state’s political landscape following a fiercely fought elections, also suggested a geographically split mandate, with the BJP pushing ahead in border, tribal and industrial regions, while the TMC held ground in parts of Kolkata and select rural strongholds.
Counting for 293 Assembly seats began at 8 am with postal ballots, followed by EVM votes.
The Election Commission has countermanded polls in the entire Falta constituency in South 24 Parganas district, citing “severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process during polling in a large number of polling stations”.
The election is widely seen as a referendum on Banerjee’s bid for a fourth consecutive term against an aggressive BJP that has sought to convert its 2021 gains into a decisive breakthrough.

Even as the broader trend favoured the BJP, Banerjee was ahead in her Bhabanipur stronghold by 16,706 votes over BJP challenger Suvendu Adhikari after five rounds of counting, offering early comfort to the TMC in a prestige seat.
The Bhabanipur contest witnessed sharp swings through the morning, with Banerjee leading in the first round, trailing in the second, and regaining the advantage in the third — underlining the volatility of early trends.
However, in Nandigram, the other marquee battleground, Adhikari was ahead by over 3,135 votes against TMC’s Pabitra Kar after two rounds of counting. Beyond the headline numbers, the trends indicated a deeper churn in the state’s political landscape.

 
For a party that has known uninterrupted power since 2011, the current numbers — with the BJP surging ahead in over 174 seats and the TMC trailing well behind — suggest the possible unravelling of a carefully constructed political machine that thrived on centralised authority, welfare outreach and relentless booth-level mobilisation.
The scale of the shift is reflected in emerging vote share patterns, with the BJP’s share rising to around 44.8 per cent — a sharp jump from 2021 — while the TMC’s dipped to nearly 41.7 per cent, indicating erosion across segments that once formed its dependable base.
Perhaps more telling is the churn in the 177 constituencies where voter deletions had exceeded previous victory margins — a silent faultline that appears to have turned electoral.
The BJP was holding ground in all the seats it had won in this category in 2021 and making inroads into several of the 120 segments that the TMC had previously dominated, pointing to a deeper, more systemic shift rather than a transient swing.
Initial trends from across the state showed several TMC heavyweights trailing, triggering concern within the ruling camp.
In Cooch Behar district’s Dinhata, minister Udayan Guha was trailing by 6,259 votes against BJP’s Ajay Ray after four of the 24 rounds of counting.
TMC’s Manas Ranjan Bhunia was trailing in Paschim Medinipur district’s Sabang constituency, where he has won seven elections earlier, with BJP’s Amal Kumar Panda ahead by 693 votes after the third round.
In Kolkata, BJP’s Purnima Chakraborty was leading by 1,430 votes over TMC minister Shashi Panja, signalling early cracks in some urban pockets for the ruling party.
In Monteswar, BJP’s Saikat Panja was ahead by 13,308 votes over TMC’s Siddiqullah Chowdhury, while in Asansol Dakshin, BJP leader Agnimitra Paul was leading by 18,812 votes.
West Bengal Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee was trailing by 1,448 votes in Baruipur Paschim constituency.
The BJP was also leading in a swath of constituencies, including Dinhata, Gosaba, Baghmundi, Bankura, Durgapur Purba, Binpur, Nayagram, Rajganj and Bhagwangola, indicating traction across Junglemahal, north Bengal and industrial belts.
In contrast, the TMC retained leads in pockets such as Deganga, besides urban seats like Kasba, Ballygunge, Bhabanipur and Entally, and rural belts including Singur, Raina, Jamalpur, Khandaghosh, Sitai, Malatipur and Mothabari.
The CPI(M) was leading in Domkal in Murshidabad district, while the ISF was ahead in Minakhan in South 24 Parganas. Aam Janata Unnayan Party chief Humayun Kabir was leading in Nowda in Murshidabad over his nearest TMC rival after the first round, with a margin of 2,890 votes and several rounds remaining.
Officials cautioned that trends could shift significantly as more rounds are counted, with clearer patterns expected only later in the day. (AGENCIES)

 

Doda-Kishtwar Road Blocked After Major Landslide At Gatsoo; Traffic Movement Suspended

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Doda-Kishtwar Road Blocked After Major Landslide At Gatsoo; Traffic Movement Suspended
Traffic movement on the Doda–Kishtwar road has been suspended following a major landslide at Gatsoo near Pul Doda, officials said on Saturday.
A traffic police official said, the landslide occurred early morning, leading to complete blockage of the road and halting vehicular movement on the vital stretch.
Official said that men and machinery have been pressed into service and efforts are underway to clear the debris. However, restoration of traffic is likely to take some time due to the magnitude of the landslide.
Commuters have been advised to avoid travel on the Doda-Kishtwar road until it is fully cleared and traffic movement is restored.
Authorities said further updates will be issued as the situation develops. (JKNS)

Rain, Gusty Winds To Continue In J&K Till May 4; MeT Warns Of Thunderstorms, Hail

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Rain, Gusty Winds To Continue In J&K Till May 4; MeT Warns Of Thunderstorms, Hail
The Meteorological Department on Saturday said that changing weather patterns will persist across Jammu and Kashmir over the next few days, bringing rain, thunderstorms and strong winds to several areas of the Union Territory.
Director MeT Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad said that on May 2, scattered places are likely to receive intermittent light rain and thundershowers, mainly during the afternoon, accompanied by gusty winds.
He said that during May 3 and 4, the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy with intermittent spells of light to moderate rain or thundershowers at many places. Thunderstorms, hailstorms and strong winds with speeds of 40–50 kmph may occur at a few locations during different parts of the day.
The department further said that on May 5, brief spells of light rain or thundershowers are likely at scattered places, mainly in the afternoon hours. From May 6 to 9, weather conditions are expected to improve, with mostly dry weather likely, although isolated showers may occur.
From May 10 to 12, the weather is likely to remain largely dry, with chances of brief light rain at isolated places during afternoon hours.
Meanwhile, the MeT Department has issued an advisory warning of possible hailstorms and gusty winds in parts of Central and North Kashmir, as well as some areas of Jammu division. It advised suspension of boating and shikara activities during afternoon to evening hours on May 3 and 4.
Residents have been advised to avoid standing near weak structures, electric poles and overhead wires, while farmers have been urged to suspend agricultural activities between May 3 and 5 in view of the expected adverse weather conditions. (KNC)

LG Manoj Sinha Promotes Two DySPs To SP Rank In J&K Police

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LG Manoj Sinha Promotes Two DySPs To SP Rank In J&K Police
The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the promotion of two Deputy Superintendents of Police (DySPs) to the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) in the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
According to Government Order No. 265-Home of 2026 dated May 2, 2026, issued by the Home Department, sanction has been accorded for the elevation of the following officers from DySP (General Cadre) to SP (Level-11) in the Pay Matrix (₹67,700–₹2,08,700) with immediate effect:Mudasser Ahmed Tramboo (KPS1258)Vaseem Mehmood (KPS125754)
The order was issued with the approval of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
As per the official document, the promotions shall remain subject to the outcome of any writ petitions.(KNC)

15 Illegal Structures Demolished in Anantnag Under Nasha Mukt J&K

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15 Illegal Structures Demolished in Anantnag Under Nasha Mukt J&K

The District Administration of Anantnag has intensified its crackdown on drug peddlers and violators of the NDPS Act by demolishing 15 illegal structures during a major enforcement drive at Waghama in Bijbehara on Saturday.

This operation falls under the ongoing 100-Day Nasha Mukt J&K Campaign. Authorities reiterated their commitment to dismantling narcotics networks and eradicating illegal assets linked to drug trafficking.

Officials revealed that in a joint operation, revenue authorities, supported by the police department, demolished various structures, including 15 shops constructed illegally on State and Kahcharai land at Khasra Nos. 2494 (min) and 2495 (min) in Estate Waghama. These structures were reportedly tied to individuals involved in cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

This robust operation also led to the recovery of encroached State and Kahcharai land, marking a critical step in reclaiming public property from unlawful occupation.

Reaffirming a zero-tolerance policy, the District Administration stated that strict and sustained action against drug peddlers, narcotics networks, and unlawful encroachments would persist throughout the campaign. Officials emphasized that dismantling illegal properties associated with the drug trade forms a key strategy to disrupt the supply chain of narcotics in the district.

The administration has issued a stern warning that anyone found involved in drug-related activities or unlawful encroachments will encounter stringent legal consequences in the ensuing days. Authorities urged the community to collaborate in ensuring a drug-free and encroachment-free environment.

Implementing the mission of the Nasha Mukt J&K campaign is critical, as Jammu and Kashmir grapples with drug-related challenges. Anantnag’s decisive actions reflect the administration’s commitment to improving public safety and well-being.

As the campaign progresses, the spotlight will remain on the government’s efforts to combat drug trafficking and related criminal activities. Stakeholders and citizens alike are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that might undermine community efforts in achieving a drug-free society.

Jammu Hosts the 13th Season of J&K’s Biggest Wedding Jewellery Exhibition at Hotel Radisson Blu, Jammu

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Jammu Hosts the 13th Season of J&K’s Biggest Wedding Jewellery Exhibition at Hotel Radisson Blu, Jammu
Jammu, April 30:  Jammu is currently hosting the 13th season of the J&K Wedding Jewellery Exhibition, widely regarded as the region’s biggest jewellery showcase, at Radisson Blu Jammu.The exhibition is being held from April 30th to May 3rd, 2026, between 11 AM and 8 PM, and brings together some of the leading jewellers of Jammu & Kashmir under one roof. Presented by Silverlines, Fortofino, and Semparia, The event promises a premium jewellery experience that combines luxury, variety, and strong value-driven offerings. The exhibition features over 10,000 exclusive jewellery designs, catering to a wide spectrum of customers, from bridal collections to everyday and office wear pieces. Visitors can explore a diverse range including gold jewellery, natural diamond jewellery, solitaires, and 24KT gold coins. A key highlight this year is the availability of natural diamond jewellery starting from just ₹35,000, making fine jewellery more accessible without compromising on quality or design. A strong focus has been placed on quality and trust, with all gold jewellery being hallmarked and HUID certified, while diamond jewellery comes with 100% natural diamonds  that are internationally certified. The exhibition also introduces a unique value proposition with 21% appreciation on diamond jewellery, offering customers long-term value on their purchases. Additionally, customers can benefit from zero deduction on old gold exchange, ensuring they receive complete value when upgrading their jewellery. To enhance the overall shopping experience, the exhibition is offering attractive benefits including up to 40% off on diamond jewellery, the opportunity to buy gold at old rates, zero making charges on jewellery, and a chance to win a lucky draw worth ₹1 lakh. The event is designed not just as a retail platform but as an immersive experience where visitors can explore styling ideas, from minimal office looks to elaborate wedding sets, all within a luxurious environment. Speaking about the exhibition, Kunal, Director of Silverlines & Fortofino, said,  “With every season, our aim has been to elevate the jewellery buying experience in Jammu & Kashmir. The 13th edition  focuses on delivering both aspiration and value, through certified quality, transparent pricing and, designs that suit every occasion. We believe luxury should feel accessible and trustworthy, and this exhibition reflects that vision.” The J&K Wedding Jewellery Exhibition will continue till May 3rd, 2026, at Radisson Blu, Jammu, and visitors are encouraged to experience this grand showcase before it concludes.

J&K’s Mega Padyatra on May 3 to Promote Drug-Free Society

Himalayan Express
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J&K’s Mega Padyatra on May 3 to Promote Drug-Free Society

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday mobilized citizens across Jammu and Kashmir to join a significant public uprising against drug abuse, announcing a Mega Padyatra to be held on May 3 at the TRC Football Stadium in Srinagar. The initiative aims to foster a drug-free society in the region, appealing especially to the youth.

Sinha expressed optimism as he noted, “I am witnessing a strong and inspiring momentum across the Union Territory towards eliminating the menace of drug abuse.” Calling for collective action, he emphasized the crucial role community involvement plays in the campaign.

“Let us unite and work together to create a safer and healthier Jammu and Kashmir for future generations,” he added. His message highlights that community participation is essential to the success of the anti-drug initiative.

This padyatra contributes to ongoing government efforts to enhance awareness and intensify action against drug abuse throughout the Union Territory. It addresses a critical issue affecting many families and communities.

The administration encourages widespread public participation, recognizing that a united stand will amplify the campaign’s impact and sustainability. Authorities believe that involving citizens in the padyatra will fortify their resolve to combat drug abuse effectively.

As preparations begin for the Mega Padyatra, local organizations and youth groups eagerly await the opportunity to participate in this pivotal movement. The event will serve as a platform for raising awareness about the dangers of drug use and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Experts point out that drug abuse poses serious health risks and threatens the social fabric of communities. By engaging with citizens in open discussions during the padyatra, the government aims to shine a light on the necessity for collective action against this crisis.

Several similar initiatives in the past have proven that community-led efforts can create significant strides in public health issues. By raising awareness and mobilizing citizens, the Sinha administration hopes to replicate successful outcomes from other campaigns.

The Mega Padyatra will not only serve as a demonstration of solidarity against drugs but will also foster a sense of community and responsibility among participants. It marks an important step towards ensuring the future generation leads a drug-free life.

DIGP DKR Range Chairs Introductory & Crime-cum-Security Review Meetings at DPO Doda

Himalayan Express
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DIGP DKR Range Chairs Introductory & Crime-cum-Security Review Meetings at DPO Doda
Doda, April 23, 2026:
Ms. Sargun Shukla, IPS, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP), Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban (DKR) Range, was accorded a warm ceremonial welcome on her arrival at District Police Office (DPO) Doda.
Reaffirming her firm commitment to strengthening policing standards and ensuring a robust security environment, the DIGP chaired an introductory as well as crime-cum-security review meetings at DPO Doda. The meeting was attended by SSP Doda, Sh. Kartik Shrotriya, IPS, along with all Addl SsP, SDPOs, DySsP Ops, SHOs, and Incharge Police Posts, including IC PCR, DSB, and the Anti-Drug Squad of District Doda.
The meeting commenced with comprehensive PowerPoint presentations by DySP Hqrs Doda, SDPO Bhaderwah, SDPO Gandoh, DySP DAR Doda, DySP Ops Dessa-Kastigarh, who presented a detailed overview of their respective jurisdictions, covering law & order, crime scenario, security dynamics, operational preparedness, achievements, and challenges. The structured presentations enabled a realistic and thorough assessment of the prevailing ground situation.
During the review, the DIGP conducted an in-depth evaluation of the overall crime scenario, case disposal, security preparedness, counter-insurgency grid, anti-drug operations, action against illicit liquor trade, performance of Police Stations and field units, and the effectiveness of public grievance redressal mechanisms. All under-investigation cases were discussed threadbare, with directions for timely disposal strictly on merits and within prescribed timelines.
Special emphasis was laid on cases registered under the NDPS Act, with clear directions for expeditious investigation, close supervision, and effective prosecution to ensure higher conviction rates. The DIGP stressed the need for robust preventive measures against organized criminal networks, including drug traffickers, bovine smuggling syndicates, offenders involved in property crimes, and crimes against women and children. Officers were directed to identify and monitor habitual offenders and initiate strict legal action wherever warranted.
Highlighting the importance of intelligence-based policing, she emphasized strengthening intelligence gathering mechanisms at all levels and maintaining close coordination with the Armed Forces and intelligence agencies for effective security management. Directions were also issued to intensify area domination drives, strengthen night patrolling in vulnerable areas, and reinforce the overall security grid.
The ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan was reviewed in detail, with focus on stringent enforcement measures including attachment of properties derived from proceeds of crime in NDPS cases and sustained crackdown on drug peddlers. The DIGP also reviewed awareness drives and anti-drug campaigns aimed at sensitizing youth and directed officers to further intensify such initiatives.
While addressing the officers, Ms. Sargun Shukla-IPS laid strong emphasis on professionalism, transparency, and accountability in policing. She reiterated a zero-tolerance approach towards crime and stressed the need for people-friendly policing, prompt grievance redressal, and enhanced community engagement to build lasting public trust.
The DIGP issued key directions including ensuring quality investigations with strict adherence to SOPs to improve conviction rates, enhancing beat policing, surveillance and area domination, leveraging technology and digital platforms such as CCTNS, e-Sakshya and e-Summons, directing all Supervisory Officers, SHOs, Incharge Police Posts and Investigating Officers to ensure effective and mandatory utilization of CCTNS for real-time data entry, case tracking, supervision and monitoring, ensuring mandatory utilization of FSL services as per BNSS provisions, and maintaining regular supervision and accountability at all levels.
Appreciating the efforts of Doda Police in maintaining peace and stability under challenging conditions, the DIGP encouraged all ranks to continue working with dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to public service. She exhorted officers to strengthen grassroots policing and public outreach to foster community trust and ensure lasting peace in the region.
The meeting concluded with an interactive session wherein officers highlighted field-level challenges and received strategic guidance and directions from the DIGP.

Seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs Including Raghav Chadha, Ashok Mittal Quit Party; To Join BJP

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Seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs Including Raghav Chadha, Ashok Mittal Quit Party; To Join BJP
 In a massive jolt to the Aam Aadmi Party on Friday, seven of its Rajya Sabha MPs, including Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, quit the party.
Addressing a press conference, Chadha, flanked by Pathak and Mittal, said that two-thirds of the Aam Aadmi Party’s Rajya Sabha MPs have quit the party and will join the BJP as a faction.
Chadha said that party MPs Harbhajan Singh and Swati Maliwal are also quitting the AAP.
“AAP, that I nurtured with my blood and sweat and to which I gave 15 years of my youth, has completely strayed from its principles, values and core morals,” he said.
Chadha was recently removed as the deputy leader of AAP in the Rajya Sabha and was replaced by Mittal in the Upper House.
“In the Rajya Sabha, the Aam Aadmi Party has 10 MPs. More than two-thirds of them are with us in this initiative.
“They have already signed, and this morning we submitted all the required documentation, including signed letters and other formal paperwork, to the chairman of the Rajya Sabha,” Chadha told reporters.
Hitting out at Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP, Chadha said that the party is no longer working for the country, but for its own benefit.
“Over the past few years, I have increasingly felt that I am the right person in the wrong party. Today, I announce my decision to move away from AAP and work more closely with the ‘janata’ (public),” he said.
Another Rajya Sabha MP, Sandeep Pathak, said that he had never thought that this situation would arise, but it has.
“For 10 years, I remained associated with this party. And today, I am parting ways with the Aam Aadmi Party,” Pathak said.
On April 15, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at business entities linked to AAP Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal in Punjab as part of a FEMA probe. (Agencies)

Administration Demolishes Residences Of Two Drug Peddlers In Outskirts Of Jammu City

Himalayan Express
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Administration Demolishes Residences Of Two Drug Peddlers In Outskirts Of Jammu City
The district administration on Friday demolished residential properties of two alleged drug peddlers in the outskirts of Jammu city as part of its crackdown on assets linked to persons involved in drug trafficking and trade, officials said.
Bulldozers — accompanied by heavy police deployment — rolled into Indra Nagar Colony of Miran Sahib and razed the houses of two drug peddlers in the area, they said.
The action against the duo — booked under provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act — came under the ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan’, officials said.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate, R S Pura, Anuradha Thakur and Sub-Divisional Police Officer Gurmeet Singh were present at the scene during the demolition exercise.
In a similar action, on Thursday, three residential properties of alleged drug peddlers were demolished in Rajiv Nagar area of Jammu city.
On April 18, in another administration and police crackdown on drug tradelinked assets, two residential properties of NDPS-accused in Belicharana area of the city were razed.Jammu business directory
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