Estimates vary, but the range broadly suggests the UDF could cross the halfway mark in the 140-member House, with projections spanning from around 70 seats at the lower end to close to 90 at the higher end. In contrast, the LDF is largely seen falling short, with projections indicating a ceiling below a simple majority. If these projections hold, the outcome would carry significance beyond a routine change of government.

Diljit Dosanjh paused his Calgary concert amid pro-Khalistan flags, addressing criticism. He defended his efforts to highlight Punjab's issues on platforms like Kaun Banega Crorepati and The Tonight Show, stating his focus remains on his homeland. This follows past controversy with Sikhs For Justice over his interactions with Amitabh Bachchan.

Actor-turned-politician Vijay Thalapathy's new party, TVK, has entered Tamil Nadu's political arena, aiming to disrupt the long-standing duopoly of DMK and AIADMK. While exit polls suggest a notable debut, projections vary, with some indicating TVK could act as a spoiler by splitting anti-incumbency votes.

TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee challenged the BJP and Election Commission to contest from Falta after a repoll was announced due to «severe electoral offences.» The Election Commission cited widespread tampering of EVMs and compromised integrity of recorded votes at multiple booths, leading to the decision for a fresh poll on May 21.

Political parties in India's recent assembly elections heavily relied on catchy slogans to energize campaigns and shape narratives. From West Bengal's «Bhoy out, Bharosa in» to Tamil Nadu's «Stalin Thodaratum, Tamil Nadu Vellattum,» these short phrases became central to electoral battles, reflecting regional identities and key campaign themes.

TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee challenged the BJP and Election Commission to contest from Falta after a repoll was announced due to «severe electoral offences.» The Election Commission cited widespread tampering of EVMs and compromised integrity of recorded votes at multiple booths, leading to the decision for a fresh poll on May 21.

Indian Railways has rolled out its 100th Vande Bharat train from the Modern Coach Factory in Raebareli. This milestone marks significant progress since the first two trains were introduced in 2018. The new 16-coach trainset will undergo trials before entering passenger service, showcasing enhanced reliability and safety features.

India successfully repatriated two fugitives, Kamlesh Parekh and Aalok Kumar, from the UAE. Parekh, involved in a Rs 2,672 crore banking fraud, was brought to Kolkata. Kumar, a key figure in a passport forgery racket, was handed over to Haryana police in Mumbai. Both were apprehended following Interpol Red Notices.

Defence veterans, including former IAF chief R K S Bhadauria, strongly back the Greater Nicobar project, deeming it vital for India's national security and military presence. They argue it enhances surveillance of the Malacca Strait, crucial for checking China's growing influence in the Indian Ocean. The project is seen as a strategic and economic win.

A nationwide test of a new cell broadcast disaster warning system caused widespread confusion and alarm across India Saturday morning. Phones blared «Extremely Severe Alert» messages, startling commuters, theatre-goers, and patients. While intended to test reach and speed, the drill highlighted the need for clearer communication about such vital emergency alerts.

TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee challenged the BJP and Election Commission to contest from Falta after a repoll was announced due to «severe electoral offences.» The Election Commission cited widespread tampering of EVMs and compromised integrity of recorded votes at multiple booths, leading to the decision for a fresh poll on May 21.

Ahead of Bengal's vote counting, Trinamool and BJP traded accusations over EVM strongroom security. TMC alleged CCTV blackouts in North 24 Parganas, while BJP pointed to alleged unauthorized access and attempted breaches in Salt Lake and Burdwan. Both parties raised concerns about the integrity of the storage facilities.

Tamil Nadu witnessed a record 85.1% voter turnout in the recent assembly elections, with 4.88 crore citizens casting their ballots. Women voters significantly outnumbered men, continuing a trend from previous years. The Election Commission faced delays in releasing data but assured robust security and transparency for the upcoming vote counting on May 4.

Two FIRs, reportedly under non-bailable charges, have been filed against Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak in Punjab, shortly after he switched from AAP to BJP. Political leaders from BJP and SAD have decried the move as «political vendetta» and an attempt to intimidate party members. Security was heightened at Pathak's Delhi residence.

Prasoon Joshi, a renowned lyricist and communications expert, has been appointed as the new chairman of Prasar Bharati, filling a crucial leadership gap. His extensive experience in advertising, cinema, and public communication is expected to bring fresh energy and a creative voice to the public broadcaster as it embraces digital transformation and evolving audience tastes.

Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee dismissed exit poll predictions, asserting Trinamool's victory with over 200 seats and accusing the BJP of manipulating markets. She urged counting agents to remain vigilant and not panic over initial postal ballot results. Meanwhile, opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari called for peace and acceptance of the mandate, warning against post-poll violence.

The Election Commission ordered a repoll in Falta constituency on May 21 due to alleged subversion of the democratic process, following BJP claims of EVM tampering. This decision comes amid heightened political tensions in the Diamond Harbour region. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court declined a TMC plea challenging the deployment of central government staff for vote counting.

Gulmarg's ski season faces an uncertain future due to shrinking winters and erratic snowfall. Authorities are fast-tracking plans for artificial snow-making systems and synthetic slopes to ensure the resort's viability. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on natural snow and extend skiing into a four-season activity, safeguarding its legacy.

Tragedy struck in Jammu's Thuther area as a collapsed bridge during repair work claimed three lives. Rescue operations recovered the bodies after a section of the structure gave way. Authorities have launched a probe, suspending two engineers and forming a committee to investigate the incident and prevent future mishaps. One worker and a rescuer were also injured.

Karnataka Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni has been disqualified from the state legislative assembly following his conviction in the murder case of BJP leader Yogeshgouda Goudar. The disqualification, effective from his conviction date of April 15, 2026, will last for six years after his release from life imprisonment.

Tamil Nadu's high voter turnout signals a crucial election. Chief Minister Stalin's DMK seeks continuity, while the AIADMK aims for a comeback. Actor Vijay's TVK emerges as a significant challenger, particularly among younger voters. Key constituencies like Kolathur and Perambur are witnessing intense multi-cornered contests, setting the stage for a decisive outcome.

Uttar Pradesh gears up for Census 2027, a massive two-phase undertaking starting May 2026. Nearly five lakh personnel will collect housing data and individual demographic details, including caste for the first time since 1931. A new online self-enumeration option aims to boost efficiency for this crucial policy-planning exercise.

The high-stakes Assam assembly elections are set for results on May 4, with the BJP aiming for a third consecutive term under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Exit polls suggest an edge for the BJP, while the Congress, led by Gaurav Gogoi, seeks a comeback. Key constituencies like Jalukbari and Jorhat witnessed closely watched contests.

The US has warned shipping companies against making payments to Iran for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, citing sanctions risks. This alert comes amid rising tensions and disruptions to global oil trade, with Iran rerouting vessels and charging fees. The US has also imposed a naval blockade, further straining energy markets and complicating diplomatic efforts.