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Bihar Dy CM Samrat Choudhary elected BJP legislature party leader

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary was elected the BJP legislature party leader on Tuesday, Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said. The BJP, the single largest party in the 243-strong assembly with 89 MLAs, elected Choudhary as its legislature party leader soon after Nitish Kumar, who heads the JD(U) and became a Rajya Sabha MP last week, submitted his resignation to Governor Syed Ata Hasnain as the chief minister. Chouhan, whom the BJP parliamentary board named central observer for the legislature party leader's election, told reporters, "Samrat Chaudhary was unanimously elected as the BJP's legislature party leader." Choudhary, BJP MLA from Tarapur, will be the next CM of Bihar after his election as the NDA legislature party. BJP ally Upendra Kushwaha, in a post on X, congratulated Samrat Choudhary, who is Bihar Deputy Chief Minister, for his "new responsibility". In a long post after tendering his resignation, Nitish Kumar listed the works done under his rule also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The post on X, in Hindi, read "You know that on 24 November 2005, the NDA government was formed in the state for the first time. Since then, the rule of law has prevailed in the state, and we have been continuously engaged in development work. The government has worked for the development of all sections of society from the very beginning -whether Hindus, Muslims, upper castes, backward classes, extremely backward classes, Dalits, or Mahadalits--work has been done for everyone. Work has been done in every sector, whether education, health, roads, electricity, or agriculture. A lot of work has also been done for women and youth." He said the NDA government has done a lot of work for the people of Bihar. "We have continuously served the people of Bihar. The new government will have my full cooperation and guidance. Even ahead, a lot of very good work will be done, and Bihar will advance a great deal. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone and offer my best wishes," he added. Nitish Kumar resigns as Bihar CM Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday said he has submitted his resignation from the post to Governor Syed Ata Hasnain. Kumar, the longest-serving CM of Bihar, made this announcement on X after he met the governor at Lok Bhavan in Patna. Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, JD(U)'s national working president Sanjay Jha, and state minister Vijay Choudhary, Kumar reached Lok Bhavan and submitted his resignation. "I have done a lot of work for the people of Bihar. Recently, I decided to leave the post of chief minister and therefore, after today's cabinet meeting, I met the governor and submitted my resignation to him," Kumar said. The 75-year-old JD(U) chief became a Rajya Sabha MP last week. "Now the new government will look after the work in Bihar. The new government will have my full cooperation and guidance," Kumar wrote on the social media post.

14 April,2026 04:49 PM IST | Patna | mid-day online correspondent
The scam came to light after two devotees from Nashik alleged they were cheated at the temple on April 11. Representational pic

Trustee of Maharashtra’s Trimbakeshwar temple arrested in cash-for-darshan scam

In a ‘cash for darshan’ scam at Maharashtra’s famous Trimbakeshwar temple, a trustee of the Trimbakeshwar Devasthan Trust was arrested on Tuesday by Nashik Rural police in connection with an alleged VIP entry racket involving devotees. The arrested trustee has been identified as Purushottam Kadlag. Police said the arrest was made at around 1 am as part of an evidence-based investigation. So far, two persons have been arrested in the case, while others are under the scanner. Superintendent of Police (Nashik Rural) Balasaheb Patil said, “We have arrested the trustee. It is an evidence-based action. Some more names have come to the fore and after verification, they will also be arrested.” The scam came to light after two devotees from Nashik alleged they were cheated at the temple on April 11. The devotees already had official Rs 200 darshan passes but were allegedly approached by agents who offered a “VIP darshan” within 10 minutes in exchange for an additional Rs 3,000 per person. No receipt was issued for the extra payment. Following the complaint, police registered a case against Gotiram Manaji Peher (41) and Abhishek Kadlag, who is the nephew of the arrested trustee. Peher has already been arrested, while Abhishek remains absconding. Police said further investigation revealed the possible involvement of the trustee after interrogation of an associate. Officials added that agents operating around the temple premises targeted devotees seeking quicker darshan due to long queues. “They used to collect money from devotees promising VIP darshan without receipts and also facilitated group bookings to earn money daily,” police said. Investigators say accused exploited rush at Trimbakeshwar temple Investigators said the racket exploited the heavy rush of devotees, many of whom travel long distances and prefer faster access due to time constraints. The accused allegedly bypassed official systems by offering unauthorised entry routes in exchange for cash. Trimbakeshwar temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracts lakhs of devotees throughout the year, especially during Shravan and major religious occasions. Officials said the Rs 200 darshan pass is the only authorised quick-entry facility. Police said the investigation is ongoing and more arrests are likely. The case has raised concerns over alleged internal involvement and lapses in temple management systems. Authorities have urged devotees to use only official channels for darshan and report any suspicious activity involving unauthorised agents. (With PTI inputs)

14 April,2026 04:48 PM IST | Nashik | mid-day online correspondent
An FIR has been registered, and authorities are also examining alleged lapses in the initial police response. Representational Pic/File

Army officer, his son attacked in Delhi; two held

A senior serving Indian Army officer and his son were allegedly attacked in the Vasant Enclave area of Delhi following which the police have arrested two suspects in connection with the crime, officials said, reported the IANS. The officials said that the police have also seized the Mercedes car believed to have been used during the incident. One of the accused has been identified as Satender, also known as Sonu, a director at a private aviation company involved in charter and cargo flight services, according to the IANS. The second accused, Sanjay Sharma, is reported to run a local eatery. Both individuals are currently being questioned by the police as part of the ongoing investigation, the news agency reported. The attack The incident reportedly took place on Saturday night when the Army officer, a Brigadier, stepped out for a walk with his son after dinner. Outside their residence, they encountered two men sitting in a parked car and allegedly consuming alcohol. When the officer objected, an argument followed. The situation escalated when additional individuals were called to the scene, who then allegedly assaulted the officer and his son, the news agency reported. LG orders strict action Lt Governor T S Sandhu expressed serious concern over the incident and said he had spoken directly with the officer to check on his well-being. "Deeply concerned by the incident in Vasant Enclave involving the assault on a serving Brigadier of the Indian Army, his wife and son, a 23-year-old IIT Delhi graduate." He said that he has personally spoken with the Brigadier to enquire about the incident and their well-being. "I also spoke with the Police Commissioner and the DCP, directing them to ensure a thorough and swift investigation, leading to immediate and appropriate action against those responsible," the L-G added. He has instructed the police to conduct a thorough and swift investigation and ensure strict action against those responsible. Security has been increased for the officer and his family, the news agency reported. Police begins probe An FIR has been registered, and authorities are also examining alleged lapses in the initial police response. The officer’s family has claimed that there was a delay in registering the complaint and that action was only taken after intervention by Army authorities. (with IANS inputs)

14 April,2026 04:37 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Nitish Kumar. Pic/X

Nitish Kumar resigns as Bihar Chief Minister, submits papers to Governor

Veteran leader Nitish Kumar on Tuesday stepped down as the Chief Minister of Bihar, bringing an end to his long tenure at the helm of the state’s politics. The announcement was made shortly after he met Governor Syed Ata Hasnain and formally submitted his resignation at the Raj Bhavan. Kumar, who is the longest-serving Chief Minister of Bihar, shared the development through a post on social media following a cabinet meeting earlier in the day. Resignation follows cabinet meeting and meeting with Governor The 75-year-old leader arrived at the Governor’s residence accompanied by senior leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, JD(U) national working president Sanjay Jha, and state minister Vijay Choudhary. Speaking after submitting his resignation, Kumar said he had taken the decision voluntarily after serving the people of Bihar for several years. He added that a new government would now take charge of the state’s administration, and he would extend full support and guidance to the incoming leadership. Highlights long tenure and development initiatives Reflecting on his time in office, Kumar pointed to the work carried out under his leadership since the formation of the NDA government in Bihar in November 2005. He said the state witnessed improvements in governance, infrastructure, and public services during this period. Kumar highlighted efforts across sectors such as education, healthcare, road development, electricity, and agriculture. He also emphasised initiatives aimed at the welfare of women, youth, and marginalised communities, stating that development efforts were inclusive and targeted all sections of society. Focus on future roadmap and ‘7 Nishchay-3’ plan The outgoing Chief Minister also referred to the government’s future development roadmap under the “7 Nishchay-3” programme, designed for the 2025–2030 period. He expressed confidence that the initiative would accelerate Bihar’s progress and strengthen its position among India’s leading states. Kumar acknowledged the support of the central government and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for continued cooperation in Bihar’s development. Political transition underway in Bihar With Kumar’s resignation, attention has now shifted to the formation of a new government in the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party, which is the single largest party in the 243-member Bihar Assembly with 89 MLAs, is expected to play a key role in the leadership transition. The NDA alliance in Bihar commands a strong majority, with support from JD(U), Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Hindustani Awam Morcha, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha. Leaders such as Chirag Paswan and Jitan Ram Manjhi are part of the alliance. Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has been appointed as the central observer for the election of the BJP legislature party leader and is expected to oversee the process in Patna. End of an era in Bihar politics Kumar’s resignation marks a significant moment in Bihar’s political landscape, given his long-standing influence and multiple terms as Chief Minister. As the state prepares for a leadership transition, political observers will be closely watching the next steps in government formation and the direction of governance in the coming years.

14 April,2026 04:23 PM IST | Patna | mid-day online correspondent
Police arrests over 350 after protest turns violent (Pic/PTI)

Noida workers' protest: Over 350 arrested as demonstration turns violent

Gautam Buddha Nagar Additional Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) on Tuesday said that over 350 people have been arrested in connection with the recent workers' protests. Senior police officers also claimed that the accused, who have been arrested, were "misusing" social media platforms to spread rumours and misinformation, news agency ANI reported. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, ACP Rajeev Narain Mishra further said that a section of people had been actively circulating false information through newly created digital networks, including WhatsApp bots and social media platforms, and a case was filed against them.  "We arrested over 350 people. Some were misusing social media, spreading rumours, and providing false information. Some were spreading misleading information through newly created WhatsApp bots and Twitter. Considering the sensitivity of this, a case has been filed against them. Today, workers are returning to work in many companies. In some places, some workers came and demanded that their demands be met. We have discussed with them patiently and explained it to them," said Mishra.  He also informed that the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister has formed a high-level committee which had visited the spot on Monday to assess the situation.  "The Chief Minister has formed a high-level committee. That committee made a physical visit yesterday, and many decisions have been made in the interest of the workers...We have CCTV footage and digital evidence, and those who have been caught were involved in some kind of disturbance, engaging in antisocial activities, blocking national highways, and state highways..." said Mishra.  Workers’ protests in Noida enters second day The protests continued on Tuesday in the Hosiery Complex in Phase-2 in Noida to demand an increase in minimum wages. However, despite the state government announcing a wage hike, the stir continues. On Monday, the protests turned violent after an altercation with the police. The protesters pelted stones and torched vehicles and were set on fire after an altercation with police. Meanwhile, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi voiced his support for the protesting workers and described their agitation over minimum wage demands as a reflection of wider economic distress faced by labourers. कल नोएडा की सड़कों पर जो हुआ, वो इस देश के श्रमिकों की आख़िरी चीख़ थी - जिसकी हर आवाज़ को अनसुना किया गया, जो मांगते-मांगते थक गया।नोएडा में काम करने वाले एक मज़दूर की ₹12,000 महीने की तनख्वाह,₹4,000-7,000 किराया। जब तक ₹300 की सालाना बढ़ोतरी मिलती है, मकान मालिक ₹500… — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) April 14, 2026 In a post on social media platform X, Gandhi wrote, "What happened yesterday on the roads of Noida was the final cry of this country's workers – one whose every voice was ignored, who grew weary from endless pleading. A worker in Noida earns a monthly salary of Rs 12,000; rent costs Rs 4,000-7,000. By the time he gets a Rs 300 annual raise, the landlord hikes the rent by Rs 500 a year."  (With inputs from ANI)

14 April,2026 03:49 PM IST | Noida | mid-day online correspondent
 Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a gathering in Dehradun (Pic/PTI)

PM Modi honours Ambedkar, stresses constitutional unity after Article 370

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid tribute to Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar on his 135th birth anniversary. Modi also hailed the abrogation of Article 370 and the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand after inaugurating the Delhi-Dehradun corridor.  Earlier today, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the six-lane Delhi-Dehradun Economic Corridor in Dehradun. While addressing the inauguration ceremony, PM Modi also apologised to the gathering for being late to the occasion. The Prime Minister said, 'Today is also the birth anniversary of Dr Baba Saheb Ambedkar. I pay my heartfelt tributes to Babasaheb. The policies and decisions taken by our government over the past decade have worked towards restoring the dignity of the Constitution,” as per ANI.  “After the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, the Constitution of India is now fully applicable across the entire nation. Even Maoist-affected districts are now working constitutionally. Our Constitution expects us to implement the Uniform Civil Code. Uttarakhand has taken this forward and shown a way to the nation," PM Modi further added.  Hailing Babasaheb Ambedkar’s legacy, PM Modi also asserted, "Babasaheb spent his life giving social justice to the deprived and exploited, and our government is also engaged in delivering social justice. That is why Babasaheb strongly advocated for modern infrastructure and industrialisation," as per ANI.  Modi hails the abrogation of Article 370 Article 370 was abrogated on August 5, 2019, withdrawing the special status of Jammu and Kashmir with a constitutional amendment. While Uttarakhand became the first state to implement the Uniform Civil Code, fulfilling the BJP's long-standing promise. Acknowledging the delay in the event, Modi said, "I apologise that I was late by more than an hour. I left on time, but the 12-kilometre-long roadshow was so enthusiastic that it was difficult to move the car quickly. The huge crowd in the 12-kilometre-long stretch, even under this heat, shows the love and blessings. I will take a new inspiration from Uttarakhand." Talking about the Delhi-Dehradun highway, the Prime Minister further added that the Economic Corridor will accelerate Uttarakhand's progress while strengthening connectivity. PM Modi extends greetings for Baisakhi Extending greetings for festivities, "The new year has arrived. I extend greetings for Baisakhi, Puthandu and Bohag Bihu. The Badrinath and Kedarnath Yatras will also begin in a few days. I got an opportunity to offer prayers to Maa Daat Kali. Maa Daat Kali's blessings have been instrumental in completing the Delhi-Dehradun Corridor." Modi also added, "After offering prayers at Baba Kedar, I had expressed that the third decade of this century would belong to Uttarakhand. I am very happy that through the double-engine government's policies, the state is moving forward on the path of development and strengthening connectivity. This project will further accelerate Uttarakhand's progress and give new momentum to its development," as per ANI. (With inputs from ANI)

14 April,2026 03:44 PM IST | Dehradun | mid-day online correspondent
Union Home Minister Amit Shah at during a public meeting ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections (Pic/PTI)

Amit Shah holds roadshow in Kaliyaganj ahead of West Bengal assembly polls

Ahead of the West Bengal assembly elections 2026, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday held a roadshow in Kaliyaganj, North Dinajpur. Earlier on Tuesday, the Union Home Minister also took a swipe at the Trinamool Congress government over infiltration. He further said that the BJP government in West Bengal will hand over the required land to complete fencing with Bangladesh, as per ANI. Amit Shah slams TMC ahead of assembly polls Addressing rallies in the poll-bound state, Shah also warned "goons of TMC not to step out of their homes" during voting. The Union Home Minister said, "I am warning all the goons of TMC not to step out of their homes; otherwise, after 5 May, you're done for," as per ANI. He further accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of trying to intimidate the majority community in the state. He also asked, "I was listening to a speech by Didi (West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee). She was attempting to intimidate the majority community of this region. She claimed that if the TMC ceases to exist, the very existence of the majority community would be at stake. We have been living here for centuries. Who are you to try to intimidate us? Riots broke out in Murshidabad under your rule. Where were you then?" as per ANI. "Attacks were carried out during Ram Navami under your rule. Where were you then? Restrictions were imposed on Saraswati Puja under your rule. Where were you then? There is no need to fear Didi. Under the leadership of Narendra Modi, the Bharatiya Janata Party will come to power," he further added. Earlier on Monday, BJP MP Manoj Tiwari campaigned in Howrah as part of the party's preparations for the elections. Speaking to the media on Monday, BJP leader Manoj Tiwari also lauded the Election Commission of India and said that it is among the most efficient electoral bodies in the world. "The Election Commission of India is the most well-organised election commission in the world. Despite having a population of 1.4 billion, instances of re-polling are extremely rare. Many countries across the globe are adopting the methods of the Election Commission of India. We must place our trust in the Election Commission. The TMC relies entirely on bogus votes," he added. Polling will be held in West Bengal on April 23 and 29, and the results of the assembly polls will be announced on May 4. (With inputs from ANI)

14 April,2026 03:02 PM IST | North Dinajpur | mid-day online correspondent
The BJP has promised a range of welfare schemes, infrastructure plans and cultural commitments. Representational Pic/File/PTI

Tamil Nadu polls: BJP promises Rs 2,000 monthly aid, free LPG cylinders

The BJP on Tuesday released its manifesto for the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026, promising Rs 2,000 monthly aid and free LPG cylinders apart from other schemes, reported the ANI. The BJP has promised a range of welfare schemes, infrastructure plans and cultural commitments. The party is contesting 27 seats in alliance with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam as part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Cash assistance and free benefits A key promise in the manifesto is financial support for households. The BJP has pledged Rs 2,000 per month for women heads of households and a one-time payment of Rs 10,000 to every household. The party also promised three free LPG cylinders each year, to be distributed during major festivals including Pongal, Tamil Puthandu and Deepavali, according to the ANI. Focus on culture, religious traditions Highlighting its cultural agenda, the BJP said it would declare Thaipoosam as a state festival in honour of Lord Murugan. The party also promised to protect and continue the tradition of lighting the Karthigai Deepam at Thiruparankundram Hill, the news agency reported. This issue became controversial after a court order allowed the ceremonial lamp to be lit at the hilltop, leading to a dispute between the BJP and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam government. Rail and Infrastructure Plans The manifesto includes major transport proposals aimed at improving connectivity across the state. These include- - High-speed rail corridors linking Chennai with Bengaluru and Hyderabad - A regional rapid transit system between Coimbatore, Tiruppur and Salem - Semi-urban rail projects such as Villupuram-Chennai - New sleeper versions of Vande Bharat Express connecting Chennai to Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata Women’s safety and economic support The BJP has outlined several steps to address crimes against women, including faster reporting through zero-FIR systems, special fast-track courts for serious offences, CCTV coverage in buses, schools and universities and better use of the Nirbhaya Fund. According to the ANI, the party also promised economic support for women-led groups, offering interest-free loans of up to Rs 50 lakh and reserving 20% of government procurement for such enterprises. BJP state president Nainar Nagendran criticised the ruling DMK, accusing it of poor governance and failing to deliver on its promises. He expressed confidence that the NDA alliance would form the next government, the news agency reported. Meanwhile, the AIADMK has also announced similar welfare measures, including monthly assistance for women, free LPG cylinders and expanded benefits for ration card holders. (with ANI inputs)

14 April,2026 02:56 PM IST | Chennai | mid-day online correspondent
India ramps up humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan. PIC/X@MEAIndia

India sends vaccines to Afghanistan for child immunisation programme against TB

In a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "India delivers 13 tonnes of BCG vaccines and related dry material to Afghanistan's Ministry of Public Health to augment Afghanistan’s child immunisation programme against tuberculosis." India delivers 13 tons of BCG vaccines and related dry material to @MoPH_afg to augment Afghanistan’s child immunization programme against tuberculosis.@WHO @UNICEF pic.twitter.com/tTh6GVLrqK — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 14, 2026 On April 5, India sent humanitarian assistance and disaster relief material (HADR) to Afghanistan due to the problems faced by people due to recent floods and earthquakes. Jaiswal expressed India's solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and commitment to extending humanitarian assistance during this challenging time. "At this time of hardship being faced by the Afghan people due to recent floods and earthquakes, India delivers HADR materials, including kitchen sets, hygiene kits, plastic sheets, tarpaulins, sleeping bags, and more. India stands in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and remains committed to extending humanitarian assistance and support during this challenging time," Jaiswal posted on X. Earlier in March, India delivered a 2.5-tonne consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits and equipment to Afghanistan to support the medical treatment of those injured in Pakistan's recent attack on a hospital in Kabul. "To support the medical treatment and swift recovery of those injured in the heinous attack on 16 March, India delivers a 2.5-tonne consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits and equipment to Kabul. India stands in solidarity with the Afghan people and will continue to extend all possible humanitarian support in this difficult hour," Jaiswal posted on X. India provided assistance to Afghanistan after a Pakistani strike targeted the 2,000-bed Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital in Kabul’s Pul-e-Charkhi area, killing over 400 people and injuring more than 250 others. India also condemned the Pakistani airstrikes on a hospital and rehab centre in Kabul and said that Islamabad is "now trying to dress up a massacre as a military operation". Unequivocally condemning the attack, MEA said, "This is a cowardly and unconscionable act of violence that has claimed the lives of a large number of civilians in a facility which can by no means be justified as a military target. Pakistan is now trying to dress up a massacre as a military operation." India said that the "heinous act of aggression" by Pakistan is also a "blatant assault" on Afghanistan's sovereignty and poses as a direct threat to regional peace and stability. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

14 April,2026 02:55 PM IST | Kabul | IANS
Voting will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with results scheduled to be declared on May 4. File Pic

West Bengal Elections 2026: Over 2,900 candidates in fray for high-stake polls

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced that a total of 2,926 candidates will contest the upcoming West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026. Voting will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with results scheduled to be declared on May 4. According to the official statement, the ECI said that in the Phase 1, 1,478 candidates across 152 constituencies are in fray whereas in Phase 2, 1,448 candidates across 142 constituencies were contesting, the news agency reported. The deadline for filing nominations for Phase 2 was April 9 and the scrutiny was completed on April 10. The candidates were allowed to withdraw until April 13, officials said. Election preparations and guidelines According to the ANI, the ECI has instructed Returning Officers to publish the final list of candidates in the official gazette and securely store all election-related documents. To assist voters, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) will display coloured photographs of candidates along with their names, serial numbers and party symbols, making identification easier at polling stations. Additionally, ballot papers for EVMs will include coloured photographs of candidates along with key details like serial number and symbol to make it easier for voters to identify them, reported the ANI. High-stakes political contest The elections are expected to see an intense contest between the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The TMC, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, is seeking a fourth consecutive term. Meanwhile, the BJP is aiming to form the government after improving its performance in the previous election. War of Words Intensifies Ahead of the polls, political rhetoric has sharpened. Union Home Minister Amit Shah criticised the TMC government over issues such as infiltration and law and order, as per the ANI. He also warned alleged TMC supporters against engaging in violence during voting and said that a BJP government would take steps to complete border fencing with Bangladesh. Shah further accused the state leadership of attempting to create fear among communities, while raising concerns over past incidents of unrest in districts such as Murshidabad. (with ANI inputs)

14 April,2026 02:53 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondent
Arvind Kejriwal. File Pic

Arvind Kejriwal backs TN CM M K Stalin; Congress leaders to join campaign trail

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal is scheduled to visit Tamil Nadu on April 20. He will address election rallies in support of DMK and CM MK Stalin on April 20 and 21, the Aam Aadmi Party said on Tuesday. AAP has not put up any candidate for the Assembly poll race, choosing to support the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA) instead. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Congress In-Charge Girish Chodankar said that Rahul Gandhi, along with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, is expected to take part in the election campaign in Tamil Nadu. Congress is in alliance with the DMK, which leads the Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA). He said that added that an official announcement regarding Rahul Gandhi's visit to Tamil Nadu will be made soon, and that Priyanka Gandhi will also participate in the campaign. He further said that Rahul Gandhi and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin are expected to campaign together. "Rahul Gandhi will come and campaign for Tamil Nadu elections, all our leaders will come... All our leaders will start campaigning when the campaigning becomes very aggressive. We have already appointed party cadres and formed special committees in all 234 Assembly constituencies so that we can help all the allied parties' candidates with whatever forces we have in each Assembly constituency, " he added. He reiterated that the announcement regarding Rahul Gandhi's visit will be made within the next two to three days. Meanwhile, Chief Minister and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) candidate from Kolathur, MK Stalin, conducted a door-to-door campaign in Vellore. Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with the counting of votes scheduled for May 4. The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, which includes the Indian National Congress, DMDK and VCK, and the National Democratic Alliance led by AIADMK with BJP and PMK as allies. Actor-turned-politician Vijay is also set to make his electoral debut with his party TVK, which could turn the contest into a three-way fight. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

14 April,2026 02:03 PM IST | New Delhi | ANI
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