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. 

 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. 

 Gehlot was speaking on the need for opposition unity and said that its leadership should be given to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. 

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