Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed strong confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will form the next government in West Bengal after the ongoing Assembly elections, stating that he plans to return for the oath-taking ceremony.

Addressing a rally during the final phase of campaigning, the Prime Minister said he would come back to the state after the declaration of results to attend the swearing-in of the BJP government.

Confidence ahead of results

The remarks came during his last campaign event, where he indicated optimism about the party’s electoral performance. The results of the West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to be announced on May 4.

He told the gathering that the enthusiasm and public support witnessed during his campaign tours had strengthened his belief that the BJP would secure a mandate in the state.

Campaign concludes amid high political stakes

The Prime Minister’s statement underscores the high-stakes political battle in West Bengal, where the BJP is aiming to challenge the ruling Trinamool Congress. The election has seen intense campaigning from all major parties, with voter turnout remaining high in earlier phases.

The West Bengal Assembly elections are being held in multiple phases, with counting set to determine the next government in the state.

Raghu Rai, one of India’s most celebrated photographers whose work chronicled the country’s social, political and cultural journey, has died at the age of 83. He passed away at a private hospital in Delhi on Sunday, according to reports.

Rai was widely regarded as a pioneer of photojournalism in India, known for capturing powerful moments ranging from political events to everyday life. His images became a visual record of modern India, reflecting its diversity and complexity.

A career that defined Indian photojournalism

Born in 1942 in Jhang, then part of British India (now in Pakistan), Rai began his photography career in the 1960s. Over the decades, he worked with leading publications and documented key moments in India’s history.

His work included coverage of major events such as the Bhopal gas tragedy and the Bangladesh Liberation War, earning him widespread recognition. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1972 for his contribution to photography.

Rai also gained international acclaim, with his photographs appearing in global publications and exhibitions, cementing his status as one of the most influential visual storytellers from India.

Illness and passing

According to family accounts cited in reports, Rai had been battling cancer for the past two years. Though he underwent treatment, his condition worsened in recent months, along with age-related complications.

He is survived by his wife Gurmeet, son Nitin, and daughters Lagan, Avani and Purvai. His last rites were scheduled to be held at Lodhi Crematorium in Delhi.

Tributes and legacy

Tributes have poured in from across the country, with leaders and members of the photography community remembering him as a visionary who captured “the soul of India.”

His work, spanning over five decades, continues to serve as a powerful archive of India’s evolution, making him one of the most respected figures in global photojournalism.

A fresh political confrontation has erupted between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Aam Aadmi Party over allegations surrounding a newly allotted residence to Arvind Kejriwal, with the BJP dubbing it “Sheesh Mahal 2”.

The controversy began after Parvesh Verma released images and a layout of the bungalow, claiming that high-end amenities in the property were funded using “private money”. The BJP alleged that the residence reflects an extravagant lifestyle, reviving earlier accusations linked to the “Sheesh Mahal” controversy.

The remarks came soon after Kejriwal moved into the government-allotted accommodation in Delhi’s Lodhi Estate, adding political heat to an already tense atmosphere.

In response, AAP leaders rejected the allegations outright, asserting that the images circulated by BJP leaders were not authentic. Party representatives claimed the visuals were sourced from online platforms and do not represent the actual residence.

The party also accused the BJP of spreading misinformation to target Kejriwal politically and damage his public image.

Political tensions rise amid recent defections

The row comes at a time when tensions between the two parties are already high following recent political developments, including the exit of senior leaders from AAP.

Raghav Chadha, who recently shifted political alignment, also weighed in on the issue, adding another dimension to the ongoing confrontation. His remarks are seen as part of a broader political attack on AAP amid internal challenges and shifting loyalties.

The developments have intensified the war of words between the BJP and AAP, with both sides trading allegations over governance, transparency, and political intent.

Ongoing battle of narratives

While the BJP continues to question the nature of the residence and its alleged expenses, AAP has maintained that the claims are baseless and politically motivated.

With both parties standing firm on their positions, the “Sheesh Mahal 2” issue is likely to remain a key flashpoint in Delhi’s political landscape in the coming days.