INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2026 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng N ew s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tin en t Pub li s hed From the U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 35 No. 19 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday May 8, 2026 BJP makes history in Bengal, takes NDA to hat-trick victory in Assam; Vijay makes blockbuster debut in Tamil Nadu as UDF storms back in Keralam New Delhi [India], May 5 (ANI): BJP created history on Monday in assembly polls results with the party slated to form its first government in West Bengal and the party-led NDA scoring a hat-trick of victories in Assam. Actor-turned-politician Vijay created a flutter in Tamil Nadu, as his party TVK won 108 seats in the assembly polls and pushed the two Dravadian parties to distant positions in terms of seats. Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) scored a massive victory in Keralam and NR Congress-led alliance comfortably retained Puducherry. BJP’s victory in West Bengal marks a significant moment for the party as it had been for long a marginal player in the state dominated for years by the Congress, Left parties and later Trinamool Congress. It is also home state of BJP’s ideologue Syama Prasad Mookerji. The BJP had won 77 seats in the last assembly polls. According to latest results from ECI, BJP won 207 seats in West Bengal, a feat its leaders had apparently not imagined. The success reflected the steadfastness Columbus [US], May 6 (ANI): Indian-origin Republican leader Vivek Ramaswamy has secured the party nomination for the post of Ohio Governor, according to a CBS News projection following Tuesday’s primary election. The biotech billionaire’s victory sets the stage for a high-stakes showdown in November against Democrat Amy Acton, the former director of the Ohio Department of Public Health, who advanced through the primary without opposition. The path to the nomination opened up significantly for the candidate after several high-profile contenders exited the race. According to CBS News, the 2025 Republican field was initially expected to feature Attorney General Dave Yost and former Ohio State University football coach Jim Tressel. However, Yost withdrew after the state Republican Party and Donald Trump threw their weight behind Ramaswamy, while Tressel chose not to enter the contest, effectively “clearing the field” for the of BJP’s campaign during which it amplified every issue on which it could target the ruling Trinamool Congress. BJP also outdid the Trinamool Congress in terms of promises for various sections of society as election saw a lot of heat and dust over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Trinamool Congress, which swept the last assembly poll by winning 212 seats, finished a distant second with 80 seats and is leading in one seat. TMC supremo lost her traditional Bhaba- nipur seat to BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari in one of the most stunning results of the election.The Congress and Left parties again fared poorly in the state. Congress won two seats and CPI-M one. Trinamool Congress was in power in West Bengal for 15 years. also on the ballot, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled that votes for her would not be counted. This decision followed the withdrawal of her running mate, as state law requires candidates for governor and lieutenant governor to “run together.”The political ascent of the Indian-origin leader follows his 2024 bid for the Republican presidential nomination, which transformed him into a prominent national figure. Following that campaign, he emerged as a steadfast ally of Donald Trump and was originally appointed to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency, or “DOGE,” alongside Elon Musk.However, CBS News notes that he departed the “job-slashing department” just one day after the presidential inauguration to “focus on running for office.” Financial disclosures indicate that the campaign enters the general election with a massive war chest, having raised 5 million dollars in early 2026 and provided a In Tamil Nadu, Vijay broke new ground as he took the election away from the two Dravidian parties who have dominated the state’s politics for over six decades.Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) won 107 seats, still needing 11 more to reach the half-way mark. DMK won 59 seats and AIADMK 47. Congress won five seats and DMDK three.Vijay, who had massive backing of youth in the state, rode on the popularity that film stars have in the southern state. He combined his appeal with an agenda that heightened the anti-incumbency against the DMK-led government. People in the state, apparently tired of power alternating between the alliances led by DMK and AIADMK, decided to go back the challenger who came with a fresh perspective. ELECTIONS SEE PAGE 2 Indian-origin Vivek Ramaswamy clinches Ohio GOP gubernatorial nomination Remember: “What are the things that you can’t see that are important? I would say justice, truth, humility, service, compassion, love... They’re the guiding lights of a life.” Former US President Jimmy Carter former presidential contender. In Tuesday’s polling, the Republican nominee comfortably defeated Casey Putsch, a small business owner popularly known by the nickname “The Car Guy.”CBS News reports that while Morgan County school board member Heather Hill was 25-million-dollar personal loan.This gives the candidate approximately 30 million dollars in “cash on hand,” a figure consistent with an earlier pledge to Fox News to “donate $30 million” to the bid. In comparison, Acton has raised 5.1 million dollars, maintaining 3 million dollars in reserve. The billionaire’s candidacy has also garnered support from local heavyweights, with Vice President JD Vance, an Ohio resident, confirming on Tuesday that he “voted for Ramaswamy.” As the race moves toward November, the Republican nominee seeks to succeed the term-limited Governor Mike DeWine in a state that Trump won by 11 points during the 2024 election. (ANI)
INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2026 Vijay Set to Be Sworn In as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister on May 7 Chennai, May 6 (ANI): Tamil Nadu is poised for a historic political transition as Vijay, founder of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), is scheduled to take oath as the state’s new Chief Minister on May 7. The swearing-in ceremony is expected to be held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium. Vijay’s rapid political ascent has marked a dramatic shift in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. In its electoral debut, TVK emerged as the single largest party in the 234-member Assembly, securing 108 seats—just 10 short of the 118 required for a majority. Party of India (Marxist), and Communist Party of India, along with the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi. Meanwhile, signals of a possible understanding with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) have also emerged. Party spokesperson Kovai Sathyan confirmed that “momentum” exists between AIADMK and TVK, though he emphasized that any alliance decision would rest with the party’s leadership. “The ball is in Vijay’s court,” Sathyan said, adding that it is too early to finalize numbers but discussions are progressing. Coalition Talks Underway To bridge the gap, TVK is expected to seek support from smaller parties, including the Indian National Congress, Pattali Makkal Katchi, Left parties such as Communist Major Setback for DMK The election results delivered a significant blow to the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Outgoing Chief Minister M. K. Stalin not only saw his party reduced to 59 seats but also lost his own constituency of Kolathur to TVK’s V. S. Babu by 8,795 votes. Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Arlekar has accepted Stalin’s resignation and requested him to continue in a caretaker role until the new government assumes office. A Historic Political Shift Vijay’s victory marks the first time since 1977 that Tamil Nadu will see a government led outside the long-dominant DMK-AIADMK axis. His rise also challenges the long-held belief that actors struggle to transition successfully into politics. Instead, Vijay now joins the legacy of prominent actor-politicians such as N. T. Rama Rao, M. G. Ramachandran, and J. Jayalalithaa. Political Tensions Rise The evolving political scenario has also triggered tensions within opposition alliances. The DMK has criticized the Congress for potentially supporting TVK, calling the move “short-sighted” and labeling the party an unreliable ally ahead of future national elections. As alliance nego- tiations intensify, the final shape of the new government remains uncertain. Whether through a TVKled coalition with smaller parties, support from Congress, or a broader alliance configuration, the coming days will be crucial. Bottom line: Tamil Nadu is entering a new political era, with Vijay’s TVK breaking a decades-old duopoly. While his swearing-in appears certain, the durability and composition of his government will depend on how successfully he navigates coalition politics in the days ahead. BJP makes history in Bengal, takes NDA to hat-trick victory in Assam; Vijay makes blockbuster debut in Tamil Nadu as UDF storms back in Keralam ELECTIONS FROM PAGE 1 Congress-led UDF won a dramatic victory in Keralam and will form government in the southern state after 10 years of LDF rule. While the Keralam victory is morale booster for Congress, it failed to perform to expectations in Assam where its top state leader Gaurav Gogoi lost his election. The party won 63 seats on its own in the 140-member assembly. The CPI-M won 26 seats and CPI eight. Congress had failed to oust the Pinarayi Vijayan government in the last assembly polls but ran a relatively unified campaign this time leaving the issue of Chief Minister to be settled after the polls. Keralam victory has come for Congress after series of losses in assembly polls since the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. The Congress was seen to have allowed the victory in Haryana polls slip from its hands.Keralam BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar said party got support from all sec- tions. “We saw the local body elections when the people of Thiruvananthapuram gave the NDA the mandate to govern the municipal corporation. In this election, there was a strong anti-incumbency against the CPM. We have put forth a vision of PM for development and opportunities for all,” he said. Loss in Keralam has further squeezed the Left parties who are not in power in any state of the country now. In Assam, BJPled NDA scored its third successive win in assembly polls and crossed the 100 seat-mark in the 126-member House. This was the first assembly election in the state with Himanta Biswa Sarma as Chief Minister and the party improved its performance compared to the 2021 polls. The BJP won 82 seats in Assam, the highest for the party in the state, with its allies Bodoland Peoples Front (BoPF) and AGP having won ten seats each. In Puducherry, NR Congress won 12 seats in assembly polls and BJP got four seats. TVK opened its account in Puducherry also, winning two seats. Polling was held in Assam, Keralam and Puducherry on April 9, in Tamil Nadu on April 23 and in West Bengal on April 23 and 29. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who addressed BJP workers at the party headquarters on Monday evening referred to the party’s spectacular performance in the West Bengal polls and said the focus should be on change and not revenge. He said the BJP will relentlessly work for a better future of Bengal. Referring to violence in Bengal during polls, he urged workers of all political parties to end the “endless cycle of violence once and for all”.”Today, when the BJP has won, the focus should be on change, not revenge. The focus should be on the future, not fear. I appeal to the workers of all political parties: let’s end this endless cycle of violence once and for all,” he said.” This Bengal elec- tion has been very special for another reason as well. You must remember what kind of news used to come during Bengal elections. Violence, fear, and deaths of innocent people. But this time, the entire country heard a new piece of news that peaceful voting took place in West Bengal. For the first time, not a single innocent citizen lost their life in election violence. In this grand festival of democracy, it was not the sound of guns, but the voice of the people that echoed. For the first time, it was not fear, but democracy that triumphed,” he added. The Prime Minister referred to the BJP ideologue Syama Prasad Mookerjee, who had founded Jan Sangh, which later took shape as Bharatiya Janata Party. Syama Prasad Mookerjee hailed from Bengal and it is the first time that the BJP will form a government in the state. “Today, as a BJP worker, another thought keeps coming to my mind. The soul of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee must be at so much peace today.” PM Modi said that women will be safe in Bengal and youth will get employment. He said strict action will be taken against the infiltrators.”I want to assure every citizen of Bengal that BJP will work relentlessly for the better future of Bengal. Now, in Bengal, women will be safe, youths will get employment, and migration will stop. In the first Cabinet meeting, the Ayushman Yojana will be cleared…And strict action will be taken against the infiltrators,” he said.” The dream they had of a strong and prosperous Bengal had been awaiting fulfillment for decades. Today, on May 4, 2026, the people of Bengal have given us BJP workers that opportunity. A new chapter has been added to Bengal’s destiny from today. From today, Bengal is free from fear and filled with the assurance of development,” he added. The Prime Minister lauded party workers for their work and said these were first assembly polls with Nitin Nabin as party chief.” Today, I respectfully bow to the people of Bengal, Assam, Puducherry, and the people of Tamil Nadu and Keralam… I also heartily congratulate the millions of BJP workers. Every BJP worker, big or small, has once again performed wonders. They have made the lotus bloom,” he said.” These were the first assembly elections since BJP President Nitin Nabin assumed the presidency. The guidance provided to every party worker during these elections proved invaluable in this victory,” he added. The Prime Minister said the results of various by-elections today were also very encouraging.”In the by-elections held in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Nagaland, and Tripura, our candidates were blessed by the people and won in these states as well. NDA leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar also won a landslide victory,” he said. (ANI)
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2026 Anand Poojary Honored with Honorary Doctorate Dr. Weymouth Spence, President of awarding the Honorary doctorate to Mr. Anand Poojary Maryland, May 3, 2026 — In a ceremony marked by celebration, reflection, and achievement, Washington Adventist University (WAU) conferred an Honorary Doctorate upon Anand Poojary during its 111th commencement ceremony, recognizing his exceptional contributions to business and community service. The event commemorated the graduation of the Class of 2026 and brought together faculty, graduates, families, and distinguished guests from across the region. The honorary degree, Doctor of Humane Letters, is awarded to individuals who have demon- strated exemplary service to society or whose accomplishments have had a broad and far-reaching impact. Announcing the honor, WAU Provost Cheryl Kisunzu emphasized that the distinction recognizes individuals whose work transcends professional success and contributes meaningfully to the wider community. Poojary was recognized for his distinguished service, entrepreneurial success in the restaurant and hospitality industries, and his engagement with diplomatic institutions. Through his ventures, he has created employment opportunities for hundreds of students and individuals, while also demonstrating leadership in community service initiatives. In his commencement address, WAU President Weymouth Spence reflected on the significance of the occasion, describing it as “a day filled with faith, joy, gratitude, reflection, and great anticipation for what lies ahead.” Addressing the graduating class, he added, “To our graduates, this day belongs to you. You have persevered through challenges, embraced growth, and committed yourself to a journey of purpose and discovery.” Poojary, who owns and operates several successful businesses in- Mr. Elisah Pulivarti, CEO of US India SME Council, Dr. Rajan Natarajan CEO of Global Alliant with Anand Poojary and his wife Sumita Poojary. cluding Jewel of India and or privilege. What I car- nition. Rajan NataraWoodlands Restaurants in ried with me were values Maryland, as well as Udi- of hard work, discipline, jan, CEO and President pi Inc., Poojary Consult- faith, and a deep respect of Global Alliant, Inc., ing Inc., and GD Hospital- for community. Those val- told India This Week that the honor is both well-deity LLC, expressed deep ues are my foundation.” Poojary recount- served and significant. “I humility upon receiving the honor. In his remarks, ed his move to the United strongly believe this is a he reflected on his journey States in 1995, noting that highly impactful recognifrom humble beginnings he arrived without a clear tion for Anand, who conin India to becoming a roadmap but remained tinues to make a meanprominent entrepreneur in steadfast in his commit- ingful difference in our ment to hard work and community and society the United States. through his tireless dedi“I stand before perseverance. “This recogni- cation, commitment, and you today with deep gratitude and humility,” Poo- tion is not mine alone,” hard work to uplift othjary said. “To receive this he said. “It belongs to my ers,” he said. my The recognition honorary doctorate from family—especially Washington Adventist wife, Sumita, who has of Anand Poojary unUniversity is such a great stood like a rock beside derscores the enduring honor—one I could never me through my journey. value of perseverance, have imagined when my It belongs to my children, community engagement, journey began in a small who inspire me every day. and leadership, reflectvillage in India.” And it belongs to the many ing the ideals celebrated Highlighting the individuals who have been by Washington Adventist University and embodied values that shaped his part of my journey.” Community lead- by the graduating Class of path, he added, “I was not born into certainties ers also praised the recog- 2026. World Press Freedom Day 2026 Observed; India Drops to 157 in Global Index Dr. Mathew Joys, Las Vegas New Delhi, May 3: World Press Freedom Day is being observed globally today with the 2026 theme, “Shaping a Future in Peace.” The theme underscores the vital role of media in upholding truth, safeguarding freedom, and contributing to sustainable peace in an increasingly digital world. Marked annually on May 3 since 1993, following a proclamation by the United Nations, the day serves as a reminder of the importance of a free press. It also pays tribute to journalists who have lost their lives or are imprisoned in the line of duty while striving to inform the public. As part of the observance, UNESCO presents the prestigious Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize, honoring individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to defending press freedom. Meanwhile, India’s position in the World Press Freedom Index 2026, released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), has declined further. The country has dropped six places to rank 157th among 180 nations. At the top of the index are countries such as the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, reflecting strong protections for media freedom. At the lower end are nations including Saudi Arabia, Iran, China, and North Korea, where press freedoms remain severely restricted. Notably, several of India’s neighboring countries rank higher in the index. Pakistan (153), Bhutan (150), Nepal (87), Sri Lanka (134), and Bangladesh (152) all place ahead of India. China, another regional power, is ranked 178th. According to RSF, factors contributing to India’s declining ranking include increasing attacks on journalists, concentration of media ownership among a few entities, and perceived political alignment of sections of the media. The report suggests that these trends have constrained press freedom in what is often described as the world’s largest democracy. The report also highlights concerns over media ownership patterns, noting that a significant number of media outlets are controlled by business conglomerates with close ties to political leadership. It further states that press freedom in India has seen a decline since 2014, when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power. As the world marks this year’s Press Freedom Day, the spotlight remains firmly on the need to protect journalistic independence and ensure that media continues to serve as a pillar of democratic society.
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2026 Legal Fraternity welcomes Centre’s move to increase Supreme Court judges, calls for broader reforms By Sushil Batra New Delhi [India], May 6 (ANI): The Union Cabinet’s decision to increase the strength of the Supreme Court from 34 to 38 judges has been widely welcomed by members of the legal fraternity, who described it as a timely step to deal with rising pendency and growing litigation before the apex court. The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, which will be introduced in Parliament to formalise the increase in judicial strength.President of the Supreme Court Bar Association, Senior Advocate Vikas Singh, said the demand for increasing the number of Supreme Court judges had existed for a long time due to the steady rise in filings before the apex court. He said that although the disposal rate of Supreme Court judges has been commendable, the heavy volume of cases requires more judges.Singh also highlighted the need for matching infrastructure and expressed hope that a part of the new Supreme Court building would be- The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- May 8, 2026 In the Name of “Free Speech” By Rajan George When one would cry for another’s death, And stir the winds with whispered wrath, When reckless tongues, unbridled, claim Their right to wound in freedom’s name— There rise the voices, cold, unkind, Of men unruled in heart and mind, Who mock the good, distort the true, And cloak their spite in virtue’s hue. They forge illusions, dark yet fair, And breathe them lightly into air, Unseeing how their words betray The shadows where their motives lay. Before the world they stand revealed— Not healers, but with poison sealed; They cast their venom, wide and far, And wander blind to what they are. With borrowed masks they take the stage— As guides of thought, as sages wise: Politicians, jesters, learned minds, All shaping truth through veiled disguise. They feed the restless, searching soul With tainted words that claim them whole; And troubled hearts receive the lie, Then act it out, yet question not why. They climb upon a fragile throne, Believing truth is theirs alone— Till, from that height they proudly claim, They fall, undone by their own flame. “In freedom’s name,” their voices cry, Yet dignity and truth run dry; But minds unchained, and hearts made free, Will sift the lie from what must be. For many fall to hollow cries Of those who scheme from sheltered lies, Who call for martyrs, yet remain Untouched by loss, untouched by pain. And those who heed such voices grave May find themselves no more than slaves. Shackled by fetters they can’t shake off Or confined to a dark cell lost and forlorn come operational by the end of this year. According to him, the Court can comfortably accommodate 38 judges and may even require around 50 judges in the coming years once the entire new building becomes functional.Senior Advocate Sacchin Puri, Vice President of the Delhi High Court Bar Association, termed the decision a “positive and much-needed step.” He said increasing the strength of judges was the need of the hour and would help in the speedy disposal of pending matters. He added that the move would benefit litigants as well as the legal community. Advocate Sumit Gehlot, a Supreme Court lawyer known for his views on constitutional and judicial issues, said the move was welcome but noted that merely increasing the number of judges would not fully solve the problem of pendency. Referring to the nearly 95,000 pending cases in the Supreme Court, he stressed the need for structural reforms and better case management sys- tems alongside increasing judicial strength.Eminent lawyer Hemant Shah also said that while the increase in judges may help reduce backlog, it cannot be the only solution. He pointed out that several judges are set to retire in 2026, which may again impact pendency. Shah further suggested that the government should work towards reducing unnecessary litigation.Advocate Juhi Arora Gupta, known for her legal expertise and court practice, described the move as a crucial step for improving judicial efficiency and ensuring speedy justice. She said the growing number and complexity of cases had made it difficult for the present strength of judges to manage matters efficiently. However, former Union Law Secretary PK Malhotra said that simply increasing the number of judges may not bring major judicial reforms. He suggested that the government should consider setting up regional Courts of Appeal so that the Supreme Court can focus mainly on constitutional matters. Overall, while INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online legal experts have largely welcomed the Centre’s decision, many believe that increasing the number of judges must be accompa- nied by wider judicial reforms to effectively tackle delays and pendency in the justice delivery system. (ANI) Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh) [India], May 6 (ANI): Two persons were burnt alive while another sustained serious injuries after their car crashed into an electric pole and caught fire in the early hours of Wednesday, a police officer said.The accident took place near Arru Tiraaha on National Highway (NH)-44 under the jurisdiction of Dabra police station in Gwalior district at around 2 am. The passengers were reportedly returning to their home in Shivpuri after attending a wedding function in Gwalior when the tragic incident occurred.Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Robin Jain told ANI that the vehicle was travelling at high speed when it rammed into an electric pole, causing the electricity to spread through the vehicle and catch fire. “An unfortunate incident occurred near Arru Tiraaha under the jurisdiction of Dabra police station in which two people from Shivpuri came to attend a wedding in Gwalior via car and while returning at around 2:00 AM, their vehicle collided with an electric pole, running at high speed. The impact caused a current surge in the car, and since there were some flammable substances in the car, something like crackers etc, which led to a fierce fire. Two people died on the spot, and one was severely injured,” Jain said. He added that police teams rushed to the spot immediately after receiving information, brought the situation under control, and shifted the injured person to the hospital for treatment.” We will register a case into the matter and will conduct an investigation. The CCTV footage and other evidence will be collected and further action will be taken based on the facts and findings,” the DSP said. Further investigation is currently underway, police confirmed.In a separate incident reported earlier on April 30, at least 15 people were killed and several others critically injured after a pickup vehicle lost control and overturned in Madhya Pradesh‘s Dhar district. Madhya Pradesh: Two burnt alive, one injured after car crashes into electric pole in Gwalior Remember: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. ” JESUS CHRIST
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2026 Stylish Senior Living Is Here EXPLORE OUR RESIDENCES Find the perfect floor plan to fit your style and budget at an Erickson Senior Living®managed community near you! • Ashby Ponds® Ashburn, VA • The Grandview℠ Bethesda, MD • Greenspring® Springfield, VA • Woodleigh Chase® Fairfax, VA • Riderwood® Silver Spring, MD Call 1-800-691-2034 or visit EricksonSeniorLiving.com for your free brochure. 2535500 EricksonSeniorLiving.com “Dirty, nasty, mischievous games”: Outgoing Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee refuses to resign; BJP says “accept defeat with humility” Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], May 5 (ANI): West Bengal has been thrust into a constitutional and political standoff following the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) landmark victory in the state assembly elections. Outgoing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has sparked a firestorm by firmly rejecting calls for her resignation, despite the BJP securing a commanding two-thirds majority. The election results, which saw the BJP surge to 207 seats and relegate the Trinamool Congress (TMC) to just 80, mark a seismic shift in Bengal’s political landscape. However, the transition of power appears far from seamless.Addressing the media on Tuesday, a defiant Banerjee accused the Election Commission (EC) and the BJP of “looting” the democratic process. Despite the numbers, she insisted that her party remains the moral victor.”I will not resign. I did not lose. I will not go to Raj Bhavan… the question doesn’t arise. We didn’t lose the election. They can defeat us officially through the Election Commission, but morally we won the election,” Mamata Banerjee asserted. The TMC chief labelled the Chief Election Commissioner the “villain” of the election, claiming Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were tampered with and citing suspicious 80-90% battery charges.Banerjee accused the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of playing a key role in the “manipulation” of the election process. “Sad to say, the CEC became the villain of this election to loot the democratic rights of the people and to loot the EVM,” she said, referencing her belief that the election results were tampered with. She claimed that the EVMs had inexplicably shown an 80-90% charge, raising suspicions about their integrity. “Two days before the election, they started arresting our people. They changed all IPS and IAS officers. They selected people from their party, and the BJP played the game directly with the Election Commission,” Mamata Banerjee alleged. However, in a seemingly contradictory turn, Banerjee later referred to herself as a “free bird” and a “commoner” who no longer holds a “chair,” signalling her intent to pivot toward strengthening the INDIA Alliance on a national level. Banerjee also alleged she was “manhandled and kicked in the belly” during the counting process, claiming CCTV cameras were intentionally disabled while her agents were assaulted. She claimed that her party’s counting agents were beaten and that she was “manhandled, assaulted and kicked in the belly” while trying to intervene. “They snatched away all forms; even women were not spared,” Banerjee recounted, adding that CCTV cameras were mysteriously turned off during the alleged assault. In response to Mamata Banerjee‘s state- ment, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee described the events surrounding the elections as a “chori” (theft) in the counting process. “All candidates were brutally assaulted. All counting agents were brutally assaulted and thrown out by the CISF and CRPF… There is no transparency in counting,” he said, describing the incident as a “great threat to democracy.” The BJP has dismissed Banerjee’s allegations as the desperate rhetoric of a defeated leader. Party spokespersons pointed out the logistical impossibility of her claims, given her Z+ security cover. Referring to the TMC‘s loss in the elections, BJP MP Saumitra Khan said, “They lost in the vote percentage… Kolkata’s public made them lose… The police belong to the administration and the constitution… HM Amit Shah has provided us freedom.” Taking a swipe at Banerjee, BJP National Spokesperson Ajay Alok said, “Doesn’t she feel ashamed of telling so many lies? She is the Chief Minister, and she has Z+ security. How can the central forces beat him up?” He further added that Banerjee’s influence had waned and that “Hindus took revenge for this with their votes and gave her a befitting reply.” Unfazed by the TMC‘s protests, the BJP is moving forward with plans for a grand inaugural ceremony. The date holds significant cultural weight, as the party seeks to align its victory with Bengali identity. In light of the massive BJP victory, which was the first in West Bengal, BJP leader Prem Shukla outlined plans for a grand swearing-in ceremony, scheduled for May 9th, coinciding with Guru Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary.” May 9th will be the date for the swearing-in ceremony. This is a stepping stone to Bengal’s glory,” he said.Amid mounting controversy over Banerjee’s refusal to resign as Chief Minister, BJP MLA-elect Suvendu Adhikari said that he didn’t have to say much on the issue since everything is mentioned in the Indian Constitution. “Everything is mentioned in the Constitution.
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