Mumbai police are investigating a suspected poisoning case after forensic tests reportedly confirmed that four members of a family died due to consumption of a toxic rodenticide rather than food poisoning.

The victims — Abdullah Dokadia, his wife Nasreen, and their daughters Zainab and Ayesha — had reportedly consumed watermelon at their residence in Mumbai after hosting relatives for dinner. Within hours, all four developed severe vomiting and diarrhoea before dying.

According to forensic findings, traces of zinc phosphite, a chemical commonly used in rat poison, were found in the bodies of the deceased as well as in samples of the watermelon consumed by the family.

Investigators are now examining whether the poisonous substance entered the fruit accidentally or was intentionally introduced. Authorities are also looking into multiple angles, including accidental contamination and possible foul play.

The case had initially been suspected to be one of food poisoning linked to watermelon consumption. Earlier forensic examinations had reportedly found a green tint in some internal organs, which later raised suspicion of poisoning.

Officials had earlier recorded statements from relatives who attended the family dinner and consumed the same meal but did not fall ill.

Experts say zinc phosphite can be extremely dangerous for humans, as it releases toxic phosphine gas after entering the stomach, potentially causing rapid organ failure.

The Bharatiya Janata Party is preparing to form its first government in West Bengal after its decisive victory in the 2026 Assembly elections. The swearing-in ceremony of the new government is scheduled for May 9 in Kolkata, while suspense continues over the party’s Chief Ministerial choice.

According to reports, the BJP legislature party is expected to meet on Friday in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah to elect its leader formally. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and several senior BJP leaders are likely to attend the oath-taking ceremony.

Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the frontrunner for the Chief Minister’s post following the BJP’s strong performance in the elections. Other names reportedly under consideration include Samik Bhattacharya, Sukanta Majumdar and Swapan Dasgupta.

The political developments come a day after Governor RN Ravi dissolved the West Bengal Legislative Assembly and state cabinet following the completion of the Assembly election process. The dissolution order was issued under Article 174(2)(b) of the Constitution after outgoing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee declined to submit her resignation despite the Trinamool Congress losing power.

The BJP secured a clear majority in the 294-member Assembly, ending the Trinamool Congress’ 15-year rule in the state. The election outcome marks a major political shift in West Bengal, where the BJP is set to form a government for the first time.

Preparations for the swearing-in ceremony are underway at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Ground, where senior BJP leaders and party supporters are expected to gather for the event.

The West Bengal Legislative Assembly was dissolved following the conclusion of the 2026 Assembly elections, in which the Bharatiya Janata Party secured a clear majority in the state.

Governor R N Ravi issued the order dissolving the Assembly as the state prepared for the transition of power after the election results. According to reports, the BJP won 207 seats in the 294-member Assembly, while the Trinamool Congress secured 80 seats.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee questioned the election outcome and alleged irregularities in the poll process, claiming the mandate had been “looted”.

The dissolution came as the tenure of the existing Assembly ended on May 7, 2026. The development has sparked political discussions over the formation of the next government in the state.

Meanwhile, Mamata Banerjee held a meeting with newly elected Trinamool Congress MLAs in Kolkata and reportedly raised concerns over internal sabotage during the elections.

The BJP is expected to begin the formal process of government formation in West Bengal after its decisive victory in the Assembly polls.