BJP Seeks FIR Against Kharge Over 'Poisonous Snake' Remark, RSS Also Files Complaint Congress president's Assam rally speech triggers political storm ahead of April 9 assembly elections

Congress Chief Sparks Row in Assam

A major political controversy broke out in poll-bound Assam after Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge compared the BJP and RSS to a "poisonous snake" at an election rally, drawing sharp reactions from the ruling party and triggering multiple complaints to the police and the Election Commission of India.

Kharge made the remarks while addressing a rally in Nilambazar in Sribhumi district, likening the BJP and RSS to a "poisonous snake" that, he said, must be eliminated. Referring to a religious analogy, he said that if a poisonous snake appears during namaz, one must stop the prayer and deal with the threat first.

BJP Files Complaint With EC

The BJP on Wednesday lodged a complaint with the Election Commission over Kharge's remarks and demanded removal of what it termed "despicable and derogatory" content from all social media handles and digital platforms. It also urged the EC to issue a show-cause notice to the Congress president and pressed for a public apology for what it called a blatant violation of the model code of conduct.

In its complaint, the BJP stated: "This is not mere political rhetoric but a calculated and reckless appeal that is capable of inciting hatred, disturbing public tranquility, and potentially provoking violence between communities."

FIR Registered at Basistha Police Station

The Assam BJP lodged a formal police complaint against Kharge at Basistha police station in Guwahati. BJP leader Rabjib Kumar Sarmah said the party also intended to forward the FIR to the Election Commission to urge action against Kharge, and demanded that the administration stop such speeches immediately.

BJP MP Manoj Tiwari went further, calling the remarks an act of "direct treason." He accused the Congress of acting in despair due to fear of defeat, saying the party had "directly called for riots" and that the people of Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala would not forgive Congress for such statements.

RSS Joins With Separate Complaints

The RSS, through its Uttar Assam Prant and Dakshin Assam Prant units, formally submitted police complaints at Dispur police station in Guwahati and Silchar police station respectively, seeking legal action over allegedly derogatory, provocative, and communally sensitive statements made during the rally.

The RSS, in its complaint, asserted that the remarks constituted a corrupt electoral practice under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and alleged criminal intimidation as well as promotion of enmity between communities.

Congress Defends the Speech

Priyank Kharge, Karnataka minister and son of the Congress president, defended his father's remarks. He questioned whether one would feed a poisonous snake or drive it away, arguing the remarks were being misrepresented for political purposes. Kharge himself later clarified that his words targeted the "ideology" of BJP-RSS, which he described as harmful to the country.

Shah Hits Back With Poll Warning

Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded sharply, saying voters would settle scores through their ballots. He predicted that after April 9 — the date of the Assam assembly election — Congress would not be visible "even with binoculars," signalling the BJP's confidence ahead of the crucial state polls.

Kharge's Gujarat Remark Also Draws Fire

The controversy compounds troubles for Kharge, who was already under criticism for separate remarks made in Kerala calling people of Gujarat "uneducated." He subsequently expressed regret over those comments, saying on social media that his statement had been deliberately misrepresented and that he regretted the words used.

What Comes Next

With Assam voting on April 9, the BJP's complaints to both police and the Election Commission are likely to remain in the spotlight. The EC is expected to examine the seven-page BJP complaint, which covers multiple controversial statements by Kharge, before deciding on any formal action. The political fallout is set to sharpen, as both sides dig in — with the Congress insisting the remarks were contextual and the BJP pushing for a ban on further campaign speeches by the Congress president.

Modi Predicts Hat-Trick for NDA in Assam as Mamata Slams BJP Over 'Looting' Public Funds

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asserted that the BJP-led NDA is on course for a third straight victory in the Assam Assembly elections, even as Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee accused the saffron party of corruption and misleading voters ahead of the crucial polls in multiple states.

Assam Polls Heat Up With Sharp Attacks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off a vigorous campaign push in poll-bound Assam on Wednesday, addressing back-to-back public rallies in Dhemaji and Biswanath districts. Speaking at Gogamukh in Dhemaji, Modi expressed strong confidence that the NDA alliance would secure a hat-trick in the state, where Assembly elections are scheduled for April 9.

Without directly naming Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the Prime Minister took a swipe at the opposition, referring to the “so-called prince” of the Congress heading for a “century of defeats”. He highlighted the massive crowds at the rallies as proof of public support that the Congress could never match.

Modi also visited a tea garden in Dibrugarh earlier in the day, interacting with women workers and describing the experience as memorable. He called tea gardens the pride of Assam and pledged continued support for workers.

Mamata Targets BJP in Bengal Rally

In West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a strong attack on the BJP during a public meeting in Birbhum. She reminded the audience that Bengal had played a key role in India’s freedom struggle at a time when the BJP did not even exist. Banerjee alleged that BJP leaders were “looting public money” and misleading people with false promises.

The TMC supremo stressed the need to defeat the BJP decisively so that it “never stands up again”. Her remarks came amid ongoing tensions over voter list revisions in the state, with the party continuing its protest near the Chief Electoral Officer’s office.

Priyanka Gandhi Accuses Assam Govt of Corruption

Meanwhile, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, campaigning in Dibrugarh and other parts of Assam, described the state government as running under “double slavery” and alleged rampant corruption, intimidation, and the existence of “mafia raj” and “syndrome raj”. She claimed people were tired of such governance and wanted a return to better days.

Development Pitch and Welfare Promises

In his addresses, Modi highlighted several achievements and future plans for Assam. He announced an ambitious ₹18,500 crore under-river tunnel project beneath the Brahmaputra to improve connectivity in the North East. The Prime Minister also promised pucca houses for the poor, with many to be registered in women’s names, along with better kitchens and toilets.

Modi pointed to progress in wildlife conservation, stating that after years of neglect, the BJP-NDA government had restored habitats and increased sightings of one-horned rhinos. He criticised previous Congress regimes for failing to protect the state’s natural resources and cultural icons like Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika.

Other initiatives mentioned included the Lakhpati Didi scheme empowering women, increased assistance under the Arunodoi scheme, and plans for a semiconductor chip manufacturing facility that would position Assam as a hub for both “tea and chip” on the global map. Modi emphasised the “double engine” government’s focus on making Assam self-reliant while addressing long-standing issues of floods and erosion.

Election-Related Developments Across States

In West Bengal, protests erupted in Basirhat over the alleged deletion of 125 voter names from a booth. The Election Commission ordered the suspension of a Block Development Officer in Nadia district following reports of irregularities. The TMC has raised concerns about large-scale issues in Form-6 applications.

In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister MK Stalin reaffirmed his commitment to his father M Karunanidhi’s ideals during a campaign event in Tiruchirappalli. He criticised both AIADMK and the BJP-led Centre.

The Election Commission has introduced a vote-from-home facility in Assam for elderly voters above 85 and persons with disabilities, with polling teams set to visit homes until April 5. Polling for all 126 seats in Assam is slated for April 9, with results expected on May 4.

Public Interest and Campaign Intensity

As campaigning intensifies across Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and other states, leaders from major parties are sharpening their attacks while outlining visions for development and governance. The coming days are likely to see further rallies, roadshows and policy announcements as parties seek to consolidate support.

Voters in Assam will decide the fate of the incumbent BJP-led government seeking a third term, while opposition parties aim to capitalise on issues of corruption, welfare and local concerns.

What Lies Ahead

With just over a week left for polling in Assam, the focus remains on voter turnout, last-minute alliances and the Election Commission’s efforts to ensure free and fair polls. The outcome in Assam is being closely watched as an early indicator for the broader Assembly elections in 2026.

India's democratic calendar for 2026 is now set. The Election Commission of India on Sunday announced the schedule for the 2026 general elections to the legislative assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal — setting the stage for one of the largest democratic exercises in the country this year. Voting will be held between April 9 and April 29, 2026, with counting of votes scheduled for May 4, 2026 for all five regions. The Model Code of Conduct came into immediate effect across all poll-bound states from the moment of the announcement.

The Complete Schedule at a Glance

Assam (126 seats): Single phase — April 9. Counting: May 4. Assembly term ends May 20.

Kerala (140 seats): Single phase — April 9. Counting: May 4. Assembly term ends May 23.

Puducherry (30 seats): Single phase — April 9. Counting: May 4. Assembly term ends June 15.

Tamil Nadu (234 seats): Single phase — April 23. Counting: May 4. Assembly term ends May 10.

West Bengal (294 seats): Two phases — April 23 (152 seats) and April 29 (142 seats). Counting: May 4. Assembly term ends May 7.

The elections will cover 824 constituencies involving approximately 17.4 crore eligible voters and over 2.18 lakh polling stations across the five regions.

Why the Announcement Matters Right Now

The timing of this announcement has immediate consequences across India's political landscape. In Madhya Pradesh, BJP state ministers and party workers — including those in the Mohan Yadav cabinet — are expected to be deployed for campaigning in election-bound states, which is precisely why sources in Bhopal say the long-anticipated MP cabinet reshuffle has been deferred to the second week of May. The announcement has also effectively frozen key policy decisions in poll-bound states, with the Model Code of Conduct now prohibiting new government schemes, transfers of key officials, or announcement of fresh benefits designed to influence voters.

West Bengal: Two Phases, High Stakes

The elections in West Bengal will be conducted in two phases — 152 seats on April 23 and the remaining 142 constituencies on April 29. This marks a significant reduction from the eight phases used in previous Bengal elections. Responding to a question about the reduced number of phases, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said it was necessary to reduce phases to make the election convenient for voters.

West Bengal's 294-seat assembly will see a fierce battle between the ruling Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee since 2011, and the Bharatiya Janata Party. The state has 6,45,61,152 total electors, including 5,23,229 young voters aged 18–19 years, 4,16,089 electors with disabilities, and 3,78,979 senior citizens aged 85 and above.

Central forces are expected to be deployed extensively in West Bengal to ensure smooth polling. CEC Kumar issued a firm warning, stating the Commission will not tolerate political violence and will act wherever required.

The Mamata factor: The Chief Minister had announced a DA hike for state government employees just days before the MCC announcement. When asked, CEC Kumar stated clearly that actions taken before the Model Code of Conduct comes into force remain the prerogative of the concerned government — offering Mamata a degree of political cover while firmly signalling that no such moves will be permissible going forward.

Kerala: LDF Defends, BJP Eyes Historic Breakthrough

Kerala's 140-seat contest pits the incumbent Left Democratic Front under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan against the United Democratic Front led by Congress. The BJP-led NDA is entering the race aggressively, planning to field candidates in around 100 seats — with allies Bharat Dharma Jana Sena and Twenty20 covering the remainder — in what party strategists describe as its most organised Kerala campaign to date.

Kerala's revised electoral roll includes 2,69,53,644 voters — 1,31,26,048 male, 1,38,27,319 female, and 227 third-gender voters — with 4,24,518 first-time voters in the 18–19 age group. The state votes on April 9.

Tamil Nadu: DMK's Incumbency Test

Tamil Nadu's 234 assembly seats go to the polls on April 23 in a single phase. The contest will test the DMK government's incumbency against a consolidated opposition. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is seeking re-election on the back of welfare delivery and anti-Centre posturing, while the AIADMK and BJP — now in a renewed alliance — are attempting to capitalise on discontent over price rise and unemployment.

Tamil Nadu's assembly term expires on May 10, making elections constitutionally time-bound with no room for delay.

Assam: BJP Eyes Historic Third Term

In Assam, the BJP-led NDA government faces off against Congress for all 126 seats in a single-phase vote on April 9. The BJP is seeking a third consecutive term under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, banking on development infrastructure, welfare schemes, and aggressive governance. Party leadership has indicated that committees have been established at every level — from the panchayat to the state — ahead of the poll.

Congress and its INDIA bloc partners are counting on anti-incumbency, inflation-related grievances, and a consolidated minority voter base to mount a credible challenge.

Puducherry: Small State, National Significance

Puducherry's 30-seat assembly votes on April 9. The Union Territory — governed by a Congress-led coalition — is often treated as an afterthought, but its result carries symbolic weight for the INDIA bloc's ability to hold onto governance in smaller territories. The BJP-AINRC alliance under N. Rangasamy is seeking to return to power after being ousted in 2021.

What the CEC Said

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar called the polls a "festival of pride," urging first-time voters: "You are about to step into one of the most important responsibilities of your life. Your vote is your choice in shaping the future of your state and the nation."

The Commission flagged concerns about misinformation and deepfakes, saying strict vigilance mechanisms are in place during the campaign period. The ECI has also directed social media platforms to fast-track the takedown of MCC-violating content within three hours of a complaint being filed.

By-Elections Also Announced

In addition to the five assembly elections, the Commission also announced by-elections for six seats across six states — Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Nagaland, and Tripura — in two phases. The first phase covers Goa, Karnataka, Nagaland, and Tripura on April 9; the second phase covers Gujarat and Maharashtra on April 23. Counting for all by-elections is also on May 4.

Key Deployment Figures

Nearly 2.19 lakh polling stations will be set up and approximately 25 lakh personnel will be deployed to conduct the elections. An average of 750–900 electors per polling station is expected across all five regions. Observers from more than 20 countries will witness the elections — the largest single round of state assembly polling India has seen in 2026.

The National Verdict That Is Coming

The simultaneous announcement of elections in five politically diverse regions — from Bengal's TMC stronghold to BJP-governed Assam, from Congress-allied Tamil Nadu to the LDF's Kerala bastion — transforms April and May 2026 into a national political referendum.

For the BJP, which governs at the Centre and in Assam, these results will signal whether the momentum from its 2024 Lok Sabha victory has held through two years of governance and external shocks — the West Asia energy crisis, rising prices, and geopolitical turbulence. For the INDIA bloc, Bengal and Kerala are must-win. A Mamata sweep combined with an LDF retention would dramatically reshape opposition confidence heading into 2027–28 state cycles. For the DMK, the Tamil Nadu election is an existential test of incumbency management.

May 4 will answer all of it — and set the terms of Indian politics for the next two years.

India is on the cusp of its biggest electoral exercise since the 2024 general elections. The Election Commission of India held a press conference at 4 PM on Sunday, March 15 to formally announce the polling schedule for assembly elections in four states — West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Assam — along with the Union Territory of Puducherry. The announcement sets in motion the Model Code of Conduct across all five regions, placing immediate restrictions on government announcements, freebies, transfers of officials, and political campaign spending.

Why These Elections Matter — Combined 824 Seats Across Five Regions

Together, these five elections cover 824 assembly seats — making this one of the largest simultaneous state election cycles in recent Indian history. West Bengal alone accounts for 294 seats, followed by Tamil Nadu with 234, Kerala with 140, Assam with 126, and Puducherry with 30. The outcome will shape political power across India's south, east, and northeast for the next five years and will be widely read as a national barometer of political sentiment ahead of the 2029 general elections.

Voting is expected to take place in April, with results likely to be declared in early May. Tamil Nadu elections are widely expected to be held in the second week of April. The assembly terms end on different dates — West Bengal on May 7, Tamil Nadu on May 10, Assam on May 20, Kerala on May 23, and Puducherry on June 15.

West Bengal — TMC's Fourth Term vs BJP's Charge

West Bengal is the most politically charged battleground of the five. The Trinamool Congress under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is seeking a fourth consecutive term in power — a feat unprecedented in the state's modern political history. The BJP is mounting a serious challenge, hoping to convert its strong 2024 general election performance in the state into assembly seats. Past West Bengal elections have been marked by political violence, and the Election Commission has made tight security arrangements a centrepiece of its preparation for this round.

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar personally visited West Bengal to review poll readiness before returning to Delhi on March 10. The Municipal Commissioner has been appointed as the District Election Officer for North Kolkata — an unusual step reflecting the special administrative challenges the city presents.

Congress took a sharp dig at the poll body on Sunday, saying the Model Code of Conduct now stands for "Modi's Code of Campaigning," while Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut called the commission "an extended branch of the BJP."

Tamil Nadu — A Three-Way Contest With Actor Vijay in the Mix

Tamil Nadu's election has taken on an entirely new dimension with the entry of actor Vijay into electoral politics through his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam party. What was previously a direct contest between the ruling DMK under Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and the opposition AIADMK — now allied with the BJP — has become a triangular battle that could significantly split the anti-incumbency vote and complicate seat projections for all three sides.

Kerala — CPI(M) Eyes Historic Third Term

In Kerala, the CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is seeking what would be a historic third consecutive term — something no political front has achieved in Kerala's post-independence history. The Congress-led United Democratic Front is mounting a strong comeback campaign, citing anti-incumbency, the Sabarimala gold theft case, and a series of controversies surrounding the ruling government. The contest is expected to be one of the tightest in the state in decades.

Assam — Himanta Biswa Sarma Seeks Second Term

In Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is seeking a second term at the helm of a BJP government. The opposition Congress is grappling with internal divisions and the exit of several prominent leaders in the months leading up to the election. The party has released a second list of 23 candidates while leaving 15 seats for alliance partners. Sarma's aggressive campaigning and high public profile make him a difficult target to dislodge, though opposition parties are banking on local issues including unemployment and flooding-related concerns.

Puducherry — Rangasamy Government Faces Anti-Incumbency Test

In Puducherry, Chief Minister N. Rangasamy's All India N.R. Congress is facing a strong anti-incumbency wave after its time in power. The Congress and DMK-led opposition is targeting the Union Territory's 30 seats aggressively. Elections in Puducherry traditionally take place in a single phase due to the territory's small size.

Model Code of Conduct Now in Force

With the announcement of the election schedule, the Model Code of Conduct came into force simultaneously across all five regions. State governments are now barred from announcing new schemes, making major appointments, or using government resources for political campaigns. All transfers of government officials in poll-bound states require prior Election Commission approval.

The Election Commission has confirmed that final electoral rolls have been published in all five regions as part of the Special Intensive Revision exercise conducted earlier this year. Full deployment of central security forces is expected well ahead of polling day, particularly in West Bengal and Assam.