Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested 806 persons and registered 724 cases under the NDPS Act during the first month of the ongoing “Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan”, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat said on Thursday.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, the DGP said the anti-drug campaign, launched on April 11, witnessed a significant rise in enforcement activities compared to the same period last year.
According to the police chief, authorities seized around 667.5 kilograms of narcotic substances, including 5.22 kilograms of heroin, between April 11 and May 12. Police teams also recovered 19,059 units of psychotropic drugs during the operation.
Prabhat said preventive action was taken against drug trafficking networks, with 24 habitual offenders booked under the PIT NDPS Act.
He further revealed that properties worth nearly Rs 41.85 crore, allegedly linked to narcotics trade, were attached during the campaign. In addition, illegal structures valued at Rs 14.75 crore, constructed on encroached land, were demolished.
One of the major actions during the drive involved the attachment of property worth Rs 6.17 crore in Anantnag district, the DGP said. He added that police also identified and attached properties in Punjab and Chandigarh in connection with narcotics-related investigations.
As part of the awareness campaign, Jammu and Kashmir Police organised 2,401 awareness programmes in vulnerable areas and reached more than three lakh people across the Union Territory.
The DGP said action was also initiated against 151 chemists and druggists for alleged violations linked to drug control regulations. Authorities additionally suspended or cancelled 162 driving licences and 92 vehicle registration certificates.
Officials said recommendations had also been made for impounding 10 passports allegedly connected to drug-related activities.
Highlighting the force’s continued anti-narcotics efforts, Nalin Prabhat claimed that J&K Police ranked first in the country in 2025 in preventive detentions under the PIT NDPS Act.
He said the “Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan” would continue with a strong focus on strict enforcement, public awareness, and dismantling drug supply chains across the Union Territory.
For millions of students across India, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is more than just an exam. It represents years of sacrifice, expensive coaching classes, sleepless nights, and the dream of becoming a doctor. That is why allegations that a 30-year-old student from Nashik leaked the NEET paper nearly 45 hours before the examination have caused shock, anger, and deep concern across the country. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The controversy has once again raised serious questions about the security of India’s competitive examinations. How could such an important paper allegedly circulate online long before the exam began? Were messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp used to spread the content? And most importantly, how many students may have received unfair advantage before entering the examination hall?
Here is a detailed breakdown of what is known so far, how investigators believe the leak may have spread, and why this case has become one of the biggest education controversies in recent years.
What Is the NEET Paper Leak Allegation?
According to investigators, a 30-year-old student from Nashik is accused of being connected to the alleged leak of the NEET 2026 examination paper nearly 45 hours before the exam officially started.
The case reportedly came to light after suspicious material began circulating online through private messaging channels and groups. Authorities are now investigating:
How the accused allegedly obtained the paper
Whether insiders were involved
The role of digital platforms
How widely the paper was shared before the exam
The “45 hours before exam” claim has become the most alarming part of the controversy because it suggests enough time existed for organised cheating networks to operate.
Why the 45-Hour Timeline Matters
A leak a few minutes before an exam is damaging.
But a leak almost two days earlier is far more serious.
Experts believe such a long gap could allow:
Full memorisation of answers
Paid circulation among students
Coaching centre solving sessions
Distribution to large private groups
Organised cheating operations
This is why investigators are focusing heavily on the timeline and digital evidence.
How the Alleged Leak May Have Spread
Investigators suspect the paper may have moved through several stages before reaching students.
1. Early Access to the Question Paper
Authorities are trying to determine how the accused allegedly gained access to the paper before the official examination schedule.
Possible areas under investigation include:
Printing facilities
Transportation chains
Storage centres
Insider access points
In many large-scale exam leaks, the weakest point is often human access rather than technology itself.
2. Digital Conversion of the Paper
Once accessed, the paper may have been:
Photographed
Scanned
Converted into PDF format
Shared as screenshots
Digital files spread much faster than physical copies, making them difficult to control once circulation begins.
3. Telegram Distribution
Investigators reportedly suspect that Telegram groups may have played a major role in spreading the leaked material.
Telegram is often used because:
Large groups can contain thousands of users
Anonymous usernames hide identities
Files can be forwarded quickly
Encrypted communication increases privacy
Authorities are now examining whether organised networks used the platform for mass distribution.
4. WhatsApp Forwarding Chains
After appearing on Telegram or other platforms, screenshots and PDFs may have entered WhatsApp groups linked to students and coaching networks.
Once that happens:
Messages spread uncontrollably
Tracking becomes difficult
Verification becomes complicated
Evidence can disappear quickly
This rapid forwarding system is one reason modern exam leaks become so difficult to contain.
Impact on Honest NEET Aspirants
The controversy has deeply affected genuine students preparing honestly for medical admissions.
Many aspirants spend:
Years preparing for NEET
10–14 hours studying daily
Large amounts on coaching institutes
Multiple attempts trying to secure seats
For such students, allegations of paper leaks create:
Fear of unfair competition
Emotional stress
Loss of trust in the system
Anxiety about merit-based selection
Parents have also expressed concern over the credibility of competitive examinations in India.
Why Competitive Exams Remain Vulnerable
The NEET controversy has again exposed weaknesses in India’s examination system.
Common Security Weak Points Include:
Paper printing stages
Transportation routes
Storage facilities
Insider involvement
Weak digital monitoring
Poor surveillance at distribution centres
Experts say that even advanced security systems can fail if a small number of insiders misuse access.
How Investigators Trace Digital Paper Leaks
One important detail often missing from mainstream reports is how cyber investigators actually track leaked exam papers.
Investigators do not only search for the first person who shared the file.
They also examine:
File metadata
Screenshot timestamps
Compression history
Device fingerprints
SIM card records
Cloud backups
Message forwarding patterns
Even when anonymous usernames are used, digital trails can sometimes help authorities reconstruct how the leak spread from one device to another.
This technical investigation may become crucial in the NEET case.
Major Exam Leak Controversies in India
The NEET controversy is not the first major examination scandal in the country.
India has witnessed several major paper leak cases in recent years, including:
The Vyapam scam
SSC examination leaks
State board controversies
Recruitment exam paper leaks
Each controversy has increased public pressure for stronger examination reforms and digital security systems.
What Authorities Are Investigating
Officials are currently trying to determine:
Whether the leaked paper was genuine
How early the circulation began
How many students received access
Whether organised groups were involved
If insiders helped facilitate the leak
Authorities may also investigate coaching networks and digital communication channels linked to the case.
The Bigger Question: Can Students Still Trust the System?
For many students, the biggest damage is not just the alleged leak itself — it is the loss of trust.
Competitive exams are supposed to reward:
Hard work
Merit
Discipline
Equal opportunity
When allegations of organised leaks emerge, students begin questioning whether honesty alone is enough to succeed.
That is why this controversy has become larger than a single criminal investigation. It has become a national debate about fairness, accountability, and the future credibility of India’s education system.
Quick Summary
Key Detail
Information
Exam
NEET 2026
Main Allegation
Paper leaked 45 hours before exam
Accused
30-year-old student from Nashik
Platforms Under Investigation
Telegram and WhatsApp
Main Concern
Fairness of medical admissions
Focus of Investigation
Source of leak and digital circulation
Conclusion
The alleged NEET paper leak involving a Nashik student has shaken confidence in one of India’s most important entrance examinations. While the investigation is still ongoing, the controversy has already exposed serious concerns about exam security, digital leaks, and the growing role of encrypted messaging platforms in spreading confidential information.
For honest students and families, the case is about much more than one leaked paper. It is about protecting the value of merit, restoring trust in competitive exams, and ensuring that years of hard work are not destroyed by organised cheating networks.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq visited the Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam School in Anantnag after eight years and highlighted the importance of balanced education along with strong moral values.
While speaking to students and staff, Mirwaiz said he was happy to finally visit the institution after authorities allowed him to do so following a long gap of eight years. He appreciated the work being done by the Nusrat-ul-Islam Trust for the welfare of students and the wider community. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He said that the main aim of Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam, whether in Srinagar, Anantnag, or Bijbehara, is to provide quality education together with moral and ethical guidance to young people.
Mirwaiz stressed that education and proper upbringing should go together. He said education should not only focus on degrees and jobs, but also on building good character, understanding responsibilities, and developing human values.
He further said that since its establishment in 1899, Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam has never worked for profit. Instead, its mission has always been to make education accessible for everyone. He added that more than 60 percent of the students studying in the institution come from low-income families and are first-generation learners receiving education at affordable costs.
Speaking about the role of parents, Mirwaiz said parents also have a major responsibility in shaping the moral and ethical behaviour of their children along with supporting their formal education.
During his visit, Mirwaiz also expressed deep sorrow over the recent fire incident at a Darul Uloom in Anantnag in which a student lost his life. He said he wanted to personally visit the institution and stand with the affected families, but authorities did not permit him to do so, which he described as unfortunate.
Later, Mirwaiz inaugurated a new business venture on K.P. Road and encouraged young people to earn halal livelihood with honesty, dignity, and hard work. He said no work is small or big, and with sincerity and dedication, youth can achieve success and positively contribute to society.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Monday reiterated his demand for a ban on alcohol in Jammu and Kashmir, saying action against narcotics alone will not succeed if liquor continues to remain easily available.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a supermarket inauguration in Srinagar, the Mirwaiz said both drugs and alcohol are harmful to society and should be addressed together. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
“Cannot Act Against One and Ignore the Other”
Mirwaiz said the government cannot justify taking strict action against drugs while remaining silent on alcohol.
He noted that Jammu and Kashmir is a Muslim-majority region where alcohol consumption is socially and religiously discouraged.
He also pointed out that several Indian states with non-Muslim majorities have imposed restrictions or bans on liquor due to its social impact.
Referring to developments in Tamil Nadu, he claimed that one of the first steps of the new government there was the closure of hundreds of liquor shops.
Demand for Complete Alcohol Ban
The Mirwaiz stressed that the growing drug problem cannot be effectively controlled unless authorities also take action against alcohol.
According to him, liquor is equally damaging and contributes to the destruction of families and society.
He said the anti-drug campaign would not achieve its desired goals without a broader approach.
Concerns Over Anti-Drug Operations
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also cautioned against what he described as region-biased measures during anti-drug drives.
He expressed concern over the alleged harassment of family members and criticised actions such as demolition of homes for the offences of an individual family member.
He stressed that anti-drug measures should remain fair and not punish entire families.
Earlier Remarks at Jama Masjid
The Mirwaiz said these concerns were similar to those he had raised during his Friday address at Jama Masjid Srinagar, where he had spoken about the increasing threat of drug addiction in society.
Final Word
The remarks come at a time when anti-drug operations are intensifying across Jammu and Kashmir, with growing public debate over addiction, rehabilitation, liquor policy and law enforcement methods.
NEET UG 2026 examination held on May 3. The decision follows damning evidence of a widespread paper leak and “guess papers” circulating on social media hours before the test.
The Decision to Cancel
The Union Ministry of Education confirmed that the decision was taken after a high-level review of investigative findings provided by the Rajasthan Police Special Operations Group (SOG) and other central agencies. Initial probes revealed that nearly 120 questions in the circulating “guess paper” matched the actual exam paper, compromising the integrity of the medical entrance test taken by over 22 lakh students.
“To ensure absolute transparency and protect the future of honest students, the Government has decided to cancel the May 3 exam. A fresh examination will be conducted, the dates for which will be notified shortly,” the NTA stated in an official press release.
CBI Takes Over the Case
To ensure a “comprehensive and transparent inquiry,” the matter has been referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The agency will investigate the “paper leak mafia” and the digital trail of the leaked documents, which reportedly originated from a student in Kerala before spreading through WhatsApp hubs in Sikar and Kota.
Protests Erupt in the Capital
Following the announcement, massive protests broke out at Shastri Bhawan and Jantar Mantar in Delhi. Members of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) and hundreds of distraught aspirants gathered to demand stricter laws against paper leaks and the resignation of top NTA officials.
Key Takeaways for Students
Re-Exam Dates: To be announced soon on the official NTA website.
No New Fee: Students will not have to pay any additional examination fee for the re-test.
Admit Cards: Fresh admit cards will be issued for the new exam date.
Refunds: The government has indicated that original fees paid may be adjusted or refunded as per the new protocol.
The opposition has slammed the government, with leaders calling the current examination system a “symbol of distrust.” Meanwhile, the NTA has urged students to rely only on official channels for updates and to continue their preparation for the upcoming re-conduct of the exam.
A 12-year-old boy was killed and three others were injured after a massive fire broke out at a Darul Uloom in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Tuesday, officials said An official said that the fire erupted at Faizan Baba Hyder Rishi Darul Uloom in Old Mattan Adda, leaving four boys with burn injuries, following which a rescue operation was launched. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He said the injured were shifted to GMC Anantnag, where one of them succumbed to his injuries.
“The deceased has been identified as Bilal Ahmad (12), son of Mohammad Akbar and a resident of Wadwan, while the injured have been identified as Sabit Fayaz and Sahil Ahmad, both residents of Sangaldan, and Irfan Ahmad of Pahalgam,” the official said.Meanwhile, police have taken cognizance of the incident.(KNO)
Omar Abdullah inaugurated several advanced medical facilities at JLNM Hospital in Rainawari to improve healthcare services for the public.
The newly introduced equipment includes an ERCP Endoscopy Machine, Ultra/Doppler Sound Machine, Tissue Processor Histopathology Machine, and Laser Urology equipment.
These medical facilities were established with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from HDFC Bank at a total cost of ₹2.25 crore.
Officials said the new equipment will greatly improve the hospital’s ability to diagnose and treat patients more effectively.
The advanced facilities are expected to strengthen healthcare services and provide better medical care to people from different parts of Kashmir.
The inauguration reflects ongoing efforts by the administration to modernise hospitals and improve public healthcare infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.
Omar Abdullah met Amit Shah on Monday in New Delhi, where the two leaders discussed several important issues related to Jammu and Kashmir.
Before leaving for the national capital from Srinagar, Abdullah told reporters that he would raise all major concerns connected to Jammu and Kashmir during the meeting.
Speaking about the demand for restoration of statehood, the Chief Minister said he did not expect the issue to be resolved in a single meeting.
“I wish we could have got our statehood after one meeting with the home minister. If that were possible, we would have got it long ago,” Abdullah said.
He added that he would discuss statehood, business rules, and several governance-related matters with the Union Home Minister.
Abdullah also supported the Centre’s recent decision to give telecom-related emergency powers to the Lieutenant Governor (LG) during situations involving public safety and national security.
He said there was “nothing wrong” with the move because the Lieutenant Governor is responsible for security and law-and-order matters in the Union Territory.
“These powers should remain with the Lieutenant Governor. This is not against the business rules or the Reorganisation Act,” the Chief Minister said.
He explained that decisions regarding suspension of internet or phone services are usually taken by the Home Department, which functions under the LG’s control.
Last week, the Central Government authorised the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir to exercise powers related to interception of signals, suspension of telecom services, and decryption of messages during national emergencies or public safety situations.
According to the official order issued by the President under the Telecommunications Act 2023, the LG will exercise powers of the state government under Section 20(2) of the Act within Jammu and Kashmir.
The development comes amid continuing discussions over governance, administrative powers, and the long-pending restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
Iltija Mufti on Monday criticised Omar Abdullah over his remarks regarding a possible alcohol ban in Jammu and Kashmir.
The People’s Democratic Party leader said Abdullah’s refusal to prohibit liquor shops on the grounds that Hindus are allowed to consume alcohol in their religion was “illogical”.
In a post on X, Iltija Mufti questioned why states like Gujarat and Bihar — both Hindu-majority states — had successfully implemented alcohol bans if religion was being used as the main argument.
She wrote that Jammu and Kashmir takes pride in its secular identity but described it as “unfortunate and insensitive” for the Chief Minister to ignore the religious feelings of the majority population.
The remarks came after Omar Abdullah addressed the issue while speaking to reporters in Ganderbal on Sunday.
Responding to questions about demands for a liquor ban, Abdullah said his government was not forcing anyone to consume alcohol.
“Is anyone forcing them to drink? You are going to the shop on your own will. Why are you going there? We are not dragging you there. We are not advertising it,” the Chief Minister said.
The issue has once again sparked political debate in Jammu and Kashmir, with different parties expressing opposing views over alcohol sales and public policy in the Union Territory.
Manoj Sinha on Saturday led a large anti-drug padyatra in Anantnag as part of the ongoing Nasha Mukt J&K campaign.
The awareness march started from Government Degree College Khanabal and moved through New Basti and SBI Chowk. Thousands of people, including students, young people, local residents, and government officials, joined the rally.
LG Manoj Sinha joined the march around 10:30 AM and led the procession, sending a strong message against drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir.
Participants carried banners and placards and raised slogans supporting a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.
The rally is part of the Union Territory’s larger campaign under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan aimed at fighting the growing drug problem, especially among young people.
Officials speaking during the event highlighted the administration’s zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking. They said strict legal action, property seizures, and awareness programmes in schools and colleges are being carried out across different districts.
The Anantnag rally follows similar anti-drug marches recently organised in Srinagar and Budgam, showing the administration’s continued efforts to make Jammu and Kashmir drug-free.
Officials said more details and outcomes from the rally are expected later.
A tragic incident took place on Friday in the Hajin area of north Kashmir after 3 young men drowned in the Jhelum River while washing tents near the riverbank.
According to reports, one of the youths accidentally lost his balance and fell into the river. The other two jumped into the water in an attempt to save him, but all three were swept away by the strong currents.
Soon after the incident, local residents, volunteers, and rescue teams rushed to the area and started a large rescue operation. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
After intense efforts, the bodies of all three youths were recovered from the river.
The deceased were identified as Sohail Ahmad Dar (22), son of Ghulam Nabi Dar; Aadil Ahmad Dar (18), son of Bashir Ahmad Dar; and Sameer Ahmad Dar, son of Mohammad Jamal Dar. All three were residents of Chandargeer Hajin.
Personnel from Jammu and Kashmir Police, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local volunteers took part in the rescue operation.
The heartbreaking incident has left the entire locality in deep grief and mourning.
Omar Abdullah on Wednesday strongly rejected rumours of a possible rebellion within the National Conference, saying his party remains united and stable.
Speaking to the media and in the Legislative Assembly, Abdullah dismissed opposition claims that there was growing dissatisfaction among NC MLAs due to delays in cabinet expansion. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
“There is no Eknath Shinde here,” Abdullah said, referring to Eknath Shinde and the political split that took place in Maharashtra in 2022.
He accused the opposition of spreading false hopes about divisions within the ruling alliance.
“The Leader of Opposition should stop dreaming,” Abdullah said. “Our MLAs are united and committed to the public mandate. Nobody here wants to repeat the Maharashtra model.”
The Chief Minister explained that the delay in expanding the cabinet was not because of fear of rebellion, but because Jammu and Kashmir has not yet regained full statehood.
According to him, the present administrative structure limits the powers of the elected government, making a larger cabinet less effective under current conditions.
“Cabinet expansion has not stopped because of fear of revolt,” he said. “It has stopped because we are fighting for statehood. Once statehood is restored, the governance structure will move forward properly.”
Abdullah also strongly criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party, accusing the central government of delaying the restoration of statehood for political reasons.
He claimed the BJP was using administrative delays to pressure the elected government and weaken its functioning.
The Chief Minister also raised concerns over the delimitation process, alleging that electoral boundaries were redrawn mainly to benefit the BJP and its allies rather than reflecting the actual population balance of the region.
He further accused the opposition of trying to create an image of instability because they were unable to accept the mandate received by the NC-Congress alliance.
Political observers believe Abdullah’s remarks were aimed at showing strength and unity within his party while keeping pressure on the central government over its promise to restore Jammu and Kashmir’s full statehood.
Paras Health Srinagar has reached a major goal. It is now the first private hospital in Jammu and Kashmir to receive a license for a Kidney Transplant Program (KTP). This is a big step for healthcare in the area.
Because of this new license, patients will no longer have to travel far away to other states for life-saving kidney surgery. This will save families money and reduce the stress of traveling. The hospital leaders thanked the government for their trust and for recognizing the high quality of the facility. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Dr. Murtuza, the Facility Director, said the hospital is dedicated to being honest and providing excellent care. Zonal Director Seema Vij added that this achievement shows their goal of making world-class healthcare affordable and easy to reach for everyone in the region.
The hospital’s medical team, including specialists in kidney and urinary health, were praised for their hard work. Now, Paras Health aims to shorten waiting times for transplants and provide advanced medical treatment right at the people’s doorstep.
New accusations have surfaced against the Darul Uloom Jamia Sirajul Uloom school in Shopian. These include claims of illegal land grabbing, dishonest money management, and ties to the banned group Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI). Because of these issues, the government has blocked unauthorized people from entering the school, leaving hundreds of students worried about their education. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Investigators say the land for the school was taken by force in 1994 with the help of corrupt officials. They also claim the school was operating without the right permits or safety certificates. To hide who was really in charge, the school allegedly set up multiple bank accounts and registered itself as a company to avoid government checks.
Security sources call the school a “center for radicalization.” They pointed out that 17 former students have been arrested for terrorism and other serious crimes.
The school’s chairman, Mohammad Shafi Lone, denies all these claims. He says the school has no ties to the banned group and simply serves its 800 students. Meanwhile, parents and students are asking the government to help them continue their classes, as the sudden closure has put their future at risk.
Why Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir Was Banned by the Indian Government
The Government of India banned Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), saying the organisation was involved in activities that threatened national security and the unity of the country.
The ban was first imposed in February 2019 and was extended for another five years in February 2024.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the organisation was allegedly involved in activities aimed at disturbing India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The government also accused the group of having links with militant organisations and supporting extremist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities have historically linked the organisation with Hizbul Mujahideen.
Officials further claimed that the organisation promoted separatist ideas and anti-India sentiments in the region.
Another major allegation was that some institutions and networks linked to the group were being used to encourage radicalisation and spread anti-government narratives.
In recent developments, the J&K administration declared Siraj-ul-Uloom in Shopian an unlawful entity in April 2024, alleging covert links with the banned organisation.
The move led to protests in parts of south Kashmir, where students and parents expressed concern about the future of education. Some political leaders also criticised the action, saying it targeted the religious and cultural identity of the local community.
Under the UAPA, authorities are allowed to:
Seal offices and institutions linked to the organisation
Freeze bank accounts and financial assets
Arrest or prosecute individuals associated with the banned group if involved in unlawful activities
The government says these actions are part of its “zero-tolerance policy” against militancy and separatism and are aimed at ensuring long-term peace and security in the region.
Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s last gambit — refusal to resign her post — ended in an anti-climax of sorts as Governor RN Ravi dissolved the state’s legislative assembly. The term of the assembly was due to expire post-midnight on Thursday. In the evening, the Raj Bhavan made public a letter issued yesterday “for general information”.
The single-line communication read: “In exercise of the power conferred on me by sub-clause (b) of Clause (2) of Article 174 of the Constitution of India, I hereby dissolve the Legislative Assembly of West Bengal with effect from 07th of May 2026”.
Under Article 172 of the Constitution, the assembly dissolves after its five-year term is over and the outgoing Council of Ministers can continue in a caretaker capacity till the new government takes the oath of office.
But in this case, with the huge row over the results of the assembly election in Bengal and Banerjee’s subsequent declaration that she will not quit, many have questioned why she should be allowed to continue in a caretaker capacity. Leaders of the BJP have called for her outright dismissal.
Her refusal to resign – unprecedented in the country’s electoral history — has also sparked much confusion about her status.
While according to the Constitution, Banerjee can technically be dismissed – at least till the election certification is complete — its execution depends on the Governor. After the election certification is issued by the Election Commission, a Chief Minister can no longer occupy office unless it is in a caretaker capacity.
The BJP, which won a massive mandate in the state’s recently concluded assembly election, is expected to have its cabinet take oath on Saturday, which would, in normal circumstances, keep a caretaker government in charge for two more days.
On Tuesday evening — a day after her party’s crushing defeat in the state assembly elections — Banerjee had argued that she had not lost the election and the mandate the BJP got was the result of “loot”.
“I have not lost, so I will not go to Raj Bhavan. I will not tender resignation,” she had told reporters at a press conference.
It sparked a massive political divide, with the Opposition bloc rallying around her and various leaders of the BJP seeking for her dismissal — a call that only the Governor can take.
Earlier today, the Trinamool Congress announced that it would go to court to challenge the results of the assembly election that ended its three terms in power.
Mamata Banerjee has refused to resign from the Chief Minister’s post despite growing criticism and political pressure following allegations of post-poll violence in West Bengal.
Speaking during a meeting with party MLAs, the All India Trinamool Congress chief said she would not step down under any circumstances. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
“Let them dismiss me. I want this to be a black day,” Banerjee reportedly said while responding to the controversy.
She also announced that her party would approach the court regarding the alleged post-poll violence that has reportedly continued since April 29.
To strengthen party discipline, Banerjee said a disciplinary committee has been formed to take action against leaders who publicly speak against the party.
Meanwhile, Suvendu Adhikari of the Bharatiya Janata Party denied claims of large-scale violence in the state.
He said only a few isolated incidents had taken place and claimed the situation was much less severe compared to the violence seen after the 2021 elections. He also said the BJP-led government would take strong action against any troublemakers.
Banerjee further called on party members to continue protests. She declared that the day the state assembly opens would be observed as a “black dress day”.
Since the election results were announced, the 71-year-old leader has repeatedly blamed the Election Commission of India for her defeat. She accused the poll panel of unfair practices and referred to election outcomes involving non-BJP alliances in states like Maharashtra, Haryana, and Bihar.
Her refusal to resign has also sparked debate among legal and political experts, as there is no clear rulebook for such a situation.
According to constitutional experts, the Governor technically has the authority to dismiss a Chief Minister, who remains in office at the Governor’s pleasure until the legislative assembly is dissolved.
There are also constitutional provisions for a trust vote or even President’s Rule in extreme cases, although experts say the Governor can invite the winning party or alliance to form a new government if required.
The current term of the West Bengal Assembly is set to end on May 7, leaving little time for a political resolution.
Several political leaders, including Himanta Biswa Sarma, have publicly demanded Mamata Banerjee’s dismissal.
Mehbooba Mufti has strongly criticised the National Conference for bringing the Quran into a political dispute linked to alleged cross-voting during the 2025 Rajya Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir.
The controversy began after the October 2025 Rajya Sabha elections. Despite having enough strength in the assembly to win all seats, the National Conference was surprised when Sat Sharma of the Bharatiya Janata Party secured one seat with more votes than expected. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
This led to allegations of cross-voting, with NC leaders accusing opposition parties, especially the People’s Democratic Party and its three MLAs, of supporting the BJP candidate.
On May 5, 2026, NC spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq intensified the row by accusing Mehbooba Mufti and PDP legislators of backing the BJP. He also referred to PDP’s past alliance with the BJP in 2014.
During his remarks, Tanvir Sadiq challenged the PDP leaders to place their hands on the Quran and swear they had not voted for the BJP candidate. He questioned their credibility over the issue.
Responding sharply, Mehbooba Mufti said she was disappointed that the National Conference had “fallen to this level”. She criticised the use of the Quran in political matters and said the party did not understand the importance and respect of the holy book.
She described the issue as a political battle rather than a genuine democratic discussion.
Her daughter, Iltija Mufti, also reacted strongly. She pointed out that NC president Farooq Abdullah had reportedly thanked the PDP after the elections, questioning why the party was now changing its stand.
The exchange has once again highlighted the long-running political rivalry between the National Conference and PDP, with both parties frequently accusing each other over alliances, Article 370, and opposition politics in the region.
Jammu and Kashmir Police has registered a case against the wife and son of Peerzada Mohammad Syed for allegedly locking a government health centre in south Kashmir, officials said on Wednesday.
According to officials, an FIR was filed at Achabal police station on Tuesday. The case relates to the alleged locking of a health facility in the Damhal Khosipora area of Anantnag district. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Officials said the building where the health facility is operating belongs to the MLA’s family. It was reportedly given to the government in 2008 for setting up a primary health centre.
However, the family has claimed that earlier this year, the MLA had written to the Anantnag Chief Medical Officer requesting the relocation of the health centre. According to them, the building is in poor and unsafe condition.
The Delhi High Court on Tuesday allowed jailed Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid to visit his seriously ill father at AIIMS.
According to official sources speaking to Kashmir News Service (KNS), the court took note of the critical condition of Rashid’s father and granted permission on humanitarian grounds. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The court ordered that the visit must take place under strict police escort. Authorities have been directed to ensure full security during his travel and time at the hospital.
It was also clearly stated that the visit would be limited in time and closely monitored.
Engineer Rashid had earlier filed a request seeking temporary relief so he could meet his father, who is currently receiving treatment at AIIMS.
The court has scheduled the next hearing after officials submit a report confirming that all directions were properly followed.
Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet Minister Javid Ahmad Dar on Monday rejected claims of internal divisions within the National Conference, calling such reports “baseless rumours”.
“There are no differences. Why pay attention to rumours? Everything is fine,” he stated, according to KNS.His remarks come at a time when speculation has been circulating that some NC MLAs might be considering leaving the party.
Response on West Bengal Election Trends
Commenting on recent political developments in West Bengal, Dar said that democracy allows different outcomes in different regions.
“People have voted for change there. The BJP has formed government in one place, while Congress or other parties have succeeded elsewhere. This is part of democracy,” he said.
Panchayat Elections Update
When asked about panchayat elections in Jammu and Kashmir, the minister did not provide a clear timeline.
“The notification will be issued at an appropriate time,” he said, without giving further details.
Remarks on Urdu Debate
Dar also chose not to comment on recent statements made by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah regarding Urdu.
He said it would be inappropriate to speak further since the Chief Minister had already clarified his position.
However, he noted that Urdu is becoming increasingly popular, while also acknowledging that some concerns still remain among sections of the public.
Minister Dar’s statement aims to put an end to ongoing rumours about divisions within the National Conference. While political discussions continue across states, he stressed that such developments are a natural part of democracy.
