Three BJP nominees, including former TMC Rajya Sabha MPs Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, Sushmita Dev, and Prakash Chik Baraik, filed nomination papers for the West Bengal Rajya Sabha bypolls. The BJP defended fielding the recent defectors, saying the move reflected a strategic political recalibration rather than a departure from its principles. PICS/PTI

Heavy rainfall lashed Kolkata, causing widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions across several parts of the city. Commuters navigated flooded roads as the IMD forecast more rain, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds over the next 48 hours. (Pics/PTI)