If the merger is formally approved, the TMC’s strength in the Lok Sabha would drop sharply from around 28 MPs to 8. 

 Anand was granted bail by a court in Patna, with his counsel arguing that the prosecution’s case against him was based solely on allegations of conspiracy. 

 Abhijeet Dipke was on his way to address the gathering when some miscreants pulled at his scarf, slapped him, and attempted to drag him. 

 In the Lok Sabha, 20 rebel TMC MPs have merged with the NCPI, a party which came to the spotlight only after the Trinamool leaders’ decision to join it. 

 Operation Toofan proving successful, public support vital to curb drug menace: Kerala minister