Wednesday, June, 17,2026

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NUMBERS GAME: HOW ONE’S LOSS IS ANOTHER’S GAIN

Rebellion in Trinamool Congress is set to boost the National Democratic Alliance numbers in Parliament as it strives for a two-thirds majority in both houses to help pass crucial bills and amendments. While the current round of Rajya Sabha elections will help the NDA inch toward the twothirds mark, in the Lok Sabha, it is still far from that magic figure of 363, despite the TMC switchover.

Sources said that from its current strength of 148 MPs, the NDA is set to gain three seats in the current round of RS elections by winning the independent seats in Jharkhand and Mizoram, where elections are being held. With three TMC MPs resigning, the NDA is set to secure all three seats from West Bengal after the bypolls, upping its tally to 154, nine short of a two-thirds majority in the Upper house.

NUMBERS SAY IT ALL

A look at the Assembly strength of the parties between 2024 Lok Sabha polls and now shows that the BJP went from having 37.16% of the mcountry’s total 4,123 MLAs to 43.97% after the recent Assembly elections. The NDA grew from having 50.84% of all MLAs in 2024 to 61.36% now following mammoth wins in the West Bengal and Assam Assembly elections.

Across all 31 states and Union Territories, the BJP now has 1,813 MLAs, up from 1,532 after the 2024 general elections. The NDA, meanwhile, is up from 2,096 to 2,530 MLAs over the same period. After the 2024 general elections, while the INDIA bloc had 1,603 MLAs (or 38.88% of the total), unaligned parties had 321 MLAs (or 7.79%). Over the past two years, however, the INDIA bloc has dropped to 1,011 MLAs (or 24.52% of the total) – a fall which stems from poor poll shows and fissures in the bloc.

Since the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, there have been 11 Assembly elections and the BJP has gained 281 MLAs, while its NDA allies like Janata Dal (United), Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) and Shiv Sena rose by 36, 20 and 19 MLAs respectively. However, the political turbulence among the “good” Trinamool MPs and the “bad” Trinamool MPs may have a far-reaching impact in the politics as a whole. However, will the move be accepted with amicable ease among the BJP leaders en masse?Will there be no sense of unease among several BJP leaders and in general the voters who may view this as a liability in the months to come?

Voters in general who had voted in favour of the BJP did so as they had rejected the Trinamool outright. Also, isn’t it unethical on the part of the “good” Trinamool MPs to do this as they were elected on a Trinamool ticket and this move will directly hurt the sentiments of their voters. Meanwhile, as more TMC MPs are likely to resign in the Upper House, the NDA is set to achieve the figure of 163, which will give it the numerical strength to pass all constitutional amendment bills.

The ruling alliance’s strength may decrease by November when 10 MPs from Uttar Pradesh retire, and the Samajwadi Party may gain some seats in the Rajya Sabha, with its improved numerical strength in the state assembly. The Opposition INDIA bloc currently has 64 MPs on its side, after the exit of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam with eight MPs and Aam Aadmi Party with three MPs distancing itself from the grouping. Independent parties such as YSRCP and Biju Janata Dal, with seven and six seats, and MDMK, can go either way in the Rajya Sabha.

In the Lok Sabha, however, the NDA’s numbers can go up to 313 with around 20 more TMC MPs forming a separate group and supporting it. Meanwhile, rebel TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar on Sunday (June 14, 2026) said two more parliamentarians were set to join the dissident group, which would take its strength in the Lok Sabha to 22.

Also a meeting between senior TMC MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay and Union Minister Bhupender Yadav in New Delhi on Saturday (June 13, 2026) sparked fresh political speculation amid turmoil within the party, raising questions on whether the veteran MP could join the dissident group seeking recognition as a separate parliamentary faction. The developments come at a sensitive time for the party, which has been grappling with internal fractions and growing tensions between the leadership and a section of parliamentarians. The meeting with the Speaker is expected to focus on issues relating to the rebels’ position within the party and possible parliamentary implications arising from the dispute.

It may be recalled that Trinamool Congress, founded by Mamata Banerjee in 1998, has long been one of India’s most influential regional parties and has dominated West Bengal politics since coming to power in 2011. However, recent political setbacks and organisational challenges have triggered speculation about emerging fault lines within the party.

Following a meeting of senior leaders at Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee’s residence on Saturday, the party has announced a series of organisational changes as it continues to grapple with an escalating internal crisis following its defeat in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. Among the key decisions, Saayoni Ghosh was removed from the post of Yuva Sabhapathi (Youth President). The party also appointed Kunal Ghosh as President of the North Kolkata unit.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHOR ARE PERSONAL

Robin Roy, The writer is Senior Journalist and former Managing Editor, First India

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Daily Astro

17-06-2026

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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17-06-2026