Bengal 2nd phase polls: As time passes disturbance reported from various pockets

IANS | April 29, 2026 11:39 AM

Kolkata, April 29 (IANS) With polling underway for the second phase of West Bengal Assembly polls for 142 Assembly constituencies, reports of poll-related violence and clashes between supporters of rival political parties have started surfacing from different corners of the districts where the elections are being conducted, with South 24 Parganas being the epicentre of the disturbance.

Centre mulls higher biofuel blends as alternative fuels, raises vehicle weight cap

IANS | April 29, 2026 10:36 AM

New Delhi, April 29 (IANS) The government has proposed widening the definition of automotive fuels to include higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel, as part of efforts to promote cleaner and more diversified energy use in the transport sector, according to a draft notification issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Bengal polls: CM Mamata calls CRPF force 'Gunda', then rectifies

IANS | April 29, 2026 10:26 AM

Kolkata, April 29 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday called the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) "Gunda", before rectifying the same, and accused the force of "assaulting" workers and leaders of the Trinamool Congress.

This is time to stand up against forces that seek to undermine your rights: Kharge's appeal to Bengal voters

IANS | April 29, 2026 10:23 AM

New Delhi, April 29 (IANS) As the second phase of the West Bengal elections progresses, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday called upon voters to participate in significant numbers and utilise their democratic rights. He further said that this is the time to stand up against forces that seek to undermine your rights and give them a befitting reply.

PM Modi offers prayers at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

IANS | April 29, 2026 10:07 AM

New Delhi, April 29 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi, where he participated in traditional rituals accompanied by Vedic chants on Wednesday.