Stock market today: The Indian stock market posted sharp declines on Wednesday, 23 April, snapping a three-day gaining streak. The Sensex plunged 756.84 points, or 0.95%, to close at 78,516.49, while the Nifty 50 dropped 198.50 points, or 0.81%, to settle at 24,378.10
It took just five minutes for chants of "we are top of the league" to ring out around Turf Moor from the visiting supporters. Manchester City beat Burnley 1-0 to hit the summit of the Premier League for the first time in eight months, when they led the way after thrashing Wolves in the opening week
Rising temperatures can worsen migraines and chronic pain. A neurologist explains how heatwaves affect the nervous system, warning signs to watch, and how to prevent flare-ups. “As a neurologist, I’ve seen a noticeable rise in patients reporting worsening migraines and chronic pain during
This article was originally published in Rest of World, which covers technology’s impact outside the West. The drone strikes on Amazon Web Services data centres in the Persian Gulf, and Iran’s threats to target tech firms for their involvement in US attacks
Congress MP TN Prathapan has moved the Supreme Court against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s national address on April 18 which was aired by public service broadcaster Doordarshan, Bar and Bench reported on Wednesday. The petition has alleged misuse of government-controlled television channels to
Why BJP has found it hard to break Mamata Banerjee’s bastion
West Bengal politics remains a high-stakes battle between the long-standing dominance of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) under Mamata Banerjee and the rising challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Despite BJP’s rapid growth and strong national presence, it continues to face hurdles such as the “outsider” perception, weaker grassroots networks, and lack of a fully established local leadership structure. In contrast, the TMC benefits from deep organisational reach, strong emotional connect with voters, and welfare-driven support bases, particularly among women and rural populations.
West Bengal politics rarely follows a straight script; it swings, surprises, and often rewrites its own rules. Yet through all that churn, one thing has remained stubbornly unchanged for a long time: Mamata Banerjee’s hold over the state.
Over the past decade, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has surged from the margins to become the principal challenger in the state. On paper, it looks like the perfect setup for a power shift. In reality, though, Mamata’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) continues to hold the fort with surprising ease.
So why does this gap between perception and reality persist? Why hasn’t BJP, despite its rapid rise and pan-India strength, been able to crack Bengal’s political bastion? Here’s a look at what’s really at play.
Mamata Banerjee’s strong grassroots connect remains unmatched
One of the biggest reasons behind BJP’s struggle in West Bengal is Mamata Banerjee’s deep-rooted connection with ordinary people. Her political brand isn’t just about speeches or campaigns, it’s built on years of street-level politics and a carefully cultivated image of being accessible and relatable.TMC’s slogan “maa, mati, manush” (mother, land, people) is a narrative that resonates strongly, especially in rural Bengal. Many voters still see her not just as a distant political leader, but as someone who understands their daily struggles.
This kind of emotional connection is very hard for an 'outsider' party to replicate quickly.
BJP’s ‘outsider’ perception hurts its Bengal ambitions
A key hurdle for BJP in West Bengal elections is the persistent perception that it is an “outsider” party. Even though the party has expanded significantly in the state since 2019, this image continues to linger.Bengal has a strong cultural identity, and regional pride plays a big role in voting behaviour. Mamata Banerjee has effectively used this sentiment to frame BJP as a force trying to impose external ideas and leadership on the state.
This “Bengali vs outsider” narrative may not dominate every constituency, but it’s powerful enough to influence swing voters, especially in close contests.
TMC's organisational strength vs BJP’s local leadership gaps
Another major factor is organisation. The TMC has built a very strong booth-level network over the years. Its workers are deeply embedded in local communities, which helps with voter mobilisation, turnout and last-mile messaging.BJP, on the other hand, has expanded quickly but unevenly. While the party has a strong central leadership and campaign machinery, it still lacks a widely accepted local chief ministerial face.
This creates a gap when voters are choosing who they actually want to run the state.
In elections, especially state-level ones, local leadership matters more than national branding, and that’s where BJP still struggles.
Welfare schemes give TMC a solid voter base
TMC’s welfare schemes have played a huge role in maintaining its dominance. Programmes aimed at women, farmers and economically weaker sections have created a loyal voter base that directly benefits from government support.For many voters, this isn’t just abstract policy; rather it’s something that affects their daily lives. When people feel they are receiving tangible benefits, they are less likely to take risks with political change.
BJP has tried to counter this by highlighting central schemes, but in state elections, local delivery often carries more weight.
Anti-incumbency exists, but isn’t decisive yet
After more than 15 years in power, it’s natural for anti-incumbency sentiment to build against Mamata Banerjee’s government. Issues like corruption allegations, governance concerns and political violence have certainly dented the TMC’s image.Incidents such as Sandeshkhali unrest, the RG Kar Medical College case and episodes of violence in districts like Murshidabad and Malda have given BJP strong talking points.
However, anti-incumbency in Bengal does not yet appear to be uniform or overwhelming. For many voters, dissatisfaction with the government does not automatically translate into support for BJP.
Polarisation strategy has limits in West Bengal politics
BJP has relied heavily on themes like Hindutva politics, border security and alleged infiltration in its West Bengal campaign strategy. These issues do resonate with certain sections of voters and have helped the party grow significantly.But there’s a limit to how far polarisation can take you in Bengal: the state has a complex social fabric, and excessive focus on divisive issues can alienate moderate and undecided voters, various past instances have shown.
Mamata Banerjee has been quick to counter this by projecting herself as a protector of "Bengali Asmita", which is likely to help her retain a broader cross-section of voters.
Fragmented opposition indirectly helps TMC
While BJP is the main challenger, it doesn’t always get the full advantage of anti-TMC votes.That’s because other players, including Congress, the Left and smaller regional outfits, still contest elections and divide the opposition space.
Even if these parties are no longer dominant, they can still influence outcomes in close contests by splitting votes. In a tight race, even a small percentage shift can make a big difference.
Ironically, poll data shows that this fragmentation has often benefited TMC more than BJP.
BJP’s rise is real, but incomplete
It’s important to note that BJP has made significant gains in West Bengal over the past few years. In the 2021 Assembly elections, it won 77 seats, a massive jump compared to its earlier presence in the state.This shows that BJP is no longer a fringe player. It has successfully replaced the Left and Congress as the principal opposition.
However, converting that momentum into a full-scale victory requires crossing a much higher threshold, one that involves not just gaining votes, but also breaking TMC’s entrenched support system.
Women voters could be a decisive factor
Both TMC and BJP are actively targeting women voters, who form a crucial part of the electorate in West Bengal.Mamata Banerjee’s welfare schemes have traditionally given her an edge among women. BJP has tried to challenge this by raising issues related to women’s safety and governance failures, especially after high-profile incidents.
This is likely to be one of the most closely contested voter segments, and could play a decisive role in shaping 2026 election outcomes.
Law and order narrative: Advantage BJP, but not enough
BJP has consistently attacked the TMC government over law and order issues, citing violence, unrest and allegations of political intimidation.While some of these concerns are real and resonate with sections of the electorate, they are unlikely to automatically translate into votes unless voters see BJP as a credible and stable alternative.
So far, that transition, from dissatisfaction to trust, appears to have remained incomplete.
Can BJP break the Bengal bastion?
BJP clearly has the momentum, the money, and a steadily growing voter base. There’s visible anti-incumbency, and governance issues have given it a real opening. But Mamata Banerjee isn’t likely to be easy to unseat: her deep grassroots network, welfare backing, and her “maa, mati, manush” pitch still act like a solid shield on the ground.The real question now is: how deep has BJP actually managed to dig into Bengal’s political soil? The noise is loud, the push is strong, but whether it’s surface-level or a genuine shift underneath… that’s something only time (and voters) will reveal.Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now!
Source: EconomicTimes
Related Posts: Why BJP Is Confident That Mamata Banerjee Is Losing The Bengal Narrative War Mamata Banerjee meets injured BJP MP Khagen Murmu at Siliguri hospital Mamata Banerjee’s Eid speech targets BJP Mamata Banerjee targets BJP over Mamata Banerjee’s Attack On BJP Mamata Banerjee calls incoming Bengal Governor ‘BJP’s Parrot’ Mamata Banerjee tears into BJP PM Modi and Mamata Banerjee clash over the attack on BJP's Khagen Murmu Mamata Banerjee alleges BJP IT cell apps used in West Bengal SIR Mamata Banerjee alleges BJP deleted 90 lakh names during SIR to ‘grab power’ in state
Love Horoscope Today for April 23, 2026: The love life of these zodiacs may improve through cooperation and effortLove Horoscope Today: Find daily astrological predictions for all sun signs. Published on: Apr 23, 2026 7:34 AM IST By Kishori Sud Share via Copy link Aries Love Energy: Honest
Just now
Third language papers in SSLC 2026 in Karnataka will be marked, not gradedKarnataka students will receive marks for third language subjects in SSLC exams, following a court ruling against the government's grading policy change. Published on: Apr 23, 2026 7:36 AM IST By Arun Dev
Just now
Rajasthan Royals achieved a significant 40-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants. Rajasthan Royals batted first and scored 159 for 6. Lucknow Super Giants struggled in their chase and were all out for 119. Jofra Archer was the standout performer with the ball for Rajasthan Royals
Just now
NASA has revealed the Roman space telescope. This new instrument will search the universe for planets beyond our solar system. It will also investigate the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy. The telescope is set to launch in September
Just now
NEET MDS 2026: Final selective edit window closes today at natboard.edu.inNEET MDS 2026 final selective edit window closes today, April 22. The steps to make changes is given here. Published on: Apr 22, 2026 3:04 PM IST By HT Education Desk | Edited by Papri Chanda Share via Copy link National
Just now
Artificial intelligence (AI) is flattening the jobs market for young people and governments should eliminate National Insurance to make hiring workers more attractive, former prime minister Rishi Sunak has told the BBC. Sunak, now an adviser to AI firm Anthropic and Microsoft
Just now
Editorial independence is core to our work. Some links may earn us a commission, without influencing our opinions.OnePlus Nord 6 vs Nothing 4a Pro: Don’t buy before reading this comparisonWhile the OnePlus Nord 6 targets performance hungry gamers
Just now
Voting for Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal Phase 1 is underway. Polling concludes today at 6 PM. Over 5.73 crore voters are participating in Tamil Nadu. West Bengal sees a contest between TMC and BJP. By-elections in Gujarat and Maharashtra are also happening
Just now
After months of speculation and delays, officials have announced that the teen girl found in the trunk of singer D4vd's car died from "multiple penetrating injuries". The Los Angeles County medical examiner's office on Wednesday announced that they'd ruled Celeste Rivas Hernandez's death a homicide
Just now
India's government has confirmed that Indian ships have not paid any tolls to Iran or other groups for passage through the Strait of Hormuz. This statement addresses claims about the captain of the Sanmar Herald making a payment. The captain reportedly fell victim to cyber criminals after an
Just now
More than 20 years on from the release of the first The Devil Wears Prada film, the stars reunited on a remarkably sunny evening in London to celebrate the release of its sequel. The original cast members Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci all reprise their roles in the film
Just now
75% of all new code at Google is AI-generated, Sundar Pichai saysWe're now shifting to truly agentic workflows, Google CEO Sundar Pichai says in a post on ‘The Keyword’. Published on: Apr 22, 2026 8:54 PM IST By Tushar Deep Singh Share via Copy link Google is doubling down for the agentic era
Just now
Kane and Diaz send Bayern past Leverkusen into German Cup finalKane and Diaz send Bayern past Leverkusen into German Cup final Published on: Apr 23, 2026 2:46 AM IST AFP Share via Copy link Harry Kane and Luis Diaz scored as Bayern Munich won 2-0 at Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday to reach the German
Just now
Tesla has expanded the lineup of the Model Y with the introduction of the new L variant. It is a long-wheelbase version of the standard Model Y and gets a six-seater configuration. There are also other changes that have been made to the electric vehicle to make it more comfortable
Just now
SoftBank Group is seeking a substantial $10 billion loan. This loan is backed by its shares in ChatGPT-maker OpenAI. The move signals SoftBank's aggressive push into artificial intelligence. This follows previous significant investments and loans for the AI firm
Just now
Iran war news: The White House states President Donald Trump will decide the West Asia conflict's end. This decision hinges on American national interests. No fixed timeline exists for the conflict or the Strait of Hormuz blockade. President Trump is satisfied with the ongoing naval blockade
Just now
Jason Holder achieved a record 97 wickets in global T20 cricket last year. He is now with Gujarat Titans in the IPL but yet to play. Holder discusses his T20 success, adapting his game, and managing his body. He emphasizes mental preparation and his role supporting the team from the bench
Just now
New Delhi, Apr 22 (PTI) Commuters trapped inside elevators at Namo Bharat stations may soon get faster assistance, with the NCRTC introducing an AI-powered system that can detect entrapment within 60 seconds and trigger an emergency response
Just now
Haryanvi actor Divyanka Sirohi dies of heart attack at 29, film workers' body expresses shock: ‘Gone far too soon’On Wednesday, it was reported that Divyanka Sirohi died on April 21 at her home in Ghaziabad. However, the cause of her death is not known yet. Apr 23, 2026
Just now
Less than four months after he signed a five-and-a-half-year deal with Chelsea, Liam Rosenior's stint at Stamford Bridge has come to an abrupt end. The 41-year-old replaced Enzo Maresca in January. Ten defeats in 23 matches later, he has gone
Just now
West Bengal politics remains a high-stakes battle between the long-standing dominance of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) under Mamata Banerjee and the rising challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Despite BJP’s rapid growth and strong national presence
Just now
Nepal’s Home Minister Sudan Gurung resigned on Wednesday, less than a month after taking charge, following questions about his financial conduct. “I have resigned from the post of home minister, effective from today, to ensure an impartial investigation into matters related to me and to ensure
Just now
It's a sombre gathering in the backstreets of one of China's biggest manufacturing hubs, where workers are smoking under a tree in front of storefronts advertising temporary factory jobs. "No-one understands what our life is like," says one man who is unwilling to be named
Just now
The Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UPMSP) is all set to announce UP Board Class 10 and 12 results 2026 today, 23 April. In a press release issued on 22 April, the education board said that the results will be announced in a press conference from Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad office in
Just now
Tesla plans to introduce its humanoid robot, Optimus, to India when the time is right, according to a senior company official. The electric carmaker also intends to bring its integrated energy solutions business to the country in the future. This announcement was made during the launch of Tesla's
Just now
Indian student in US considers return after failing to secure permanent job: ‘I have a loan to pay off’The student moved to the US less than two years ago for a master’s degree. Published on: Apr 23, 2026 6:49 AM IST By Sakshi Sah Share via Copy link An Indian student in the United States has
Just now
HR rejects candidate for asking about WFH, wants employees with ‘CEO-level attitude’In an Instagram video, a job seeker claimed that her request for Saturday flexibility was met with a lecture on corporate devotion from HR. Published on: Apr 23
Just now
