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

Ahead of West Bengal's vote counting, the Election Commission is deploying approximately 70,000 central forces to maintain order, especially in areas prone to post-poll violence. Control rooms will monitor counting day, May 4, for immediate action against any disturbances. Strict legal action awaits those involved in violence, aiming to prevent a repeat of the 2021 incidents.

Dhaka summoned India's acting envoy to protest Assam CM's remarks calling apprehended foreigners 'rude people' and 'infiltrators'. Bangladesh conveyed that such disparaging comments strain bilateral ties and stressed the need for restraint on sensitive issues. The ministry emphasized that public statements capable of straining relations are counterproductive.

Srinagar's agricultural university has welcomed Swiss Saanen goats, sparking immense interest for their high milk yield with less feed. These docile animals, capable of producing five to six litres daily, are being studied for their adaptability to Kashmir's climate and potential for crossbreeding with local breeds. Researchers believe they could revolutionize dairy farming, even for urban households.

A new 20-coach Vande Bharat Express now connects Jammu and Srinagar directly, significantly cutting travel time to five hours. This direct rail link, a first for the two cities, will operate six days a week starting May 2.

J&K Police have filed an FIR against individuals for promoting separatist ideology online after PDP's Iltija Mufti shared a video of late leader Syed Ali Geelani discussing the importance of Urdu. The police stated the content aimed to incite unlawful activities and undermine India's integrity. This action follows Mufti's protest against removing Urdu as a mandatory language.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh asserted that India's 'Operation Sindoor' sent a strong global message, demonstrating a shift from mere diplomatic statements to powerful deterrence against terror. He identified Pakistan as the epicentre of international terrorism, emphasizing the need to address its ideological roots.

'Parents' Word Will Be Final On 30-Week MTP'

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited a strong room, alleging EVM manipulation and obstruction by Central forces. She vowed to fight «life and death» against alleged bias by the Election Commission, despite exit polls favouring the BJP. The state saw record voter turnout amidst political tensions.

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

Tragedy struck in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, as a cruise boat capsized in Bargi Dam, resulting in four fatalities. Officials confirmed that while 15 individuals have been rescued, search operations continue for 12 still missing. Rescue teams are actively working to locate all passengers following the devastating incident.

Today's Chanakya exit polls predict a landslide victory for the BJP in Assam, indicating a second term for Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. In Kerala, the projections show a close contest between the incumbent LDF and the UDF, with the BJP expected to secure a few seats. Projections for West Bengal and Tamil Nadu are still awaited.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee dismissed exit poll predictions, asserting the Trinamool Congress will secure a decisive victory. While most surveys indicated a close contest with a slight edge for the BJP, one poll projected a strong win for the TMC. Both parties expressed confidence in their respective wins.

Today's Chanakya exit polls predict a landslide victory for the BJP in Assam, indicating a second term for Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. In Kerala, the projections show a close contest between the incumbent LDF and the UDF, with the BJP expected to secure a few seats. Projections for West Bengal and Tamil Nadu are still awaited.

The Supreme Court urged the Centre to consider amending laws to allow rape survivors to terminate pregnancies beyond 20 weeks, emphasizing no time limit in such cases. The bench highlighted the lifelong trauma for a child survivor and the need for the decision to rest with the survivor and her parents, with AIIMS offering counsel.

The National Medical Commission has recognized the Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Cardiology (PGDCC), validating degrees for 1,700 doctors trained between 2006-2013. This move by IGNOU, now redesignated as Clinical Cardio Physician (Non-Invasive), aims to address the critical shortage of cardiology specialists in underserved regions and bridge the urban-rural healthcare gap.

India faces a significant hepatitis burden, contributing to a high number of global deaths. Despite progress in reducing infections, the world is off track to meet 2030 elimination targets due to gaps in vaccination, screening, and treatment access. Viral hepatitis remains a major public health threat.

Iran's UN mission accused the US of misrepresenting its nuclear program at a review conference, deflecting from Washington's own violations. Tehran insists its enriched uranium is IAEA-supervised, with no diversion. Meanwhile, Iran's envoy warned that regional stability hinges on ending aggression and respecting its sovereignty, urging the UN Security Council to intervene amidst escalating tensions.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge downplayed the Karnataka chief ministerial tussle between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar, stating the party will resolve the «confusion soon.» This comes amid speculation fueled by a reported power-sharing agreement and a statement from Home Minister G Parameshwara suggesting Kharge could be a suitable CM.

'State bifurcation', P 12

Exit polls suggest a BJP-led alliance victory in Assam and a UDF win in Kerala, potentially leaving the Left out of power in any state. Puducherry is expected to see the AINRC-BJP combine retain power. Tamil Nadu and West Bengal present a mixed picture, with some polls indicating a tight race in Tamil Nadu and differing predictions for West Bengal.