Wed Feb 12 11:39:58 UTC 2025: **West Bengal TMC Leader Defects to Congress Ahead of 2026 Elections**

KOLKATA, INDIA—Abhijit Mukherjee, a prominent leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) party in West Bengal, has defected to the Congress party, delivering a blow to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ahead of the 2026 state assembly elections. The reasons behind Mukherjee’s defection remain unclear.

**Near-Miss Train Accident in Patna**

PATNA, INDIA—A train narrowly avoided a major accident in Patna after splitting into two sections while in motion. The incident caused panic at the station, but no injuries were reported.

**Prominent Ram Mandir Priest Passes Away**

AYODHYA, INDIA—Mahant Satendra Das, the chief priest of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, has passed away. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described his death as an “irreparable loss.”

**Mika Singh Criticizes Ranveer Allahbadia’s Behavior on ‘India’s Got Talent’**

MUMBAI, INDIA—Singer Mika Singh has joined the chorus of criticism against YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia following his controversial appearance on the television show “India’s Got Talent.” Singh expressed anger at Allahbadia’s behavior, questioning the lack of regulation and accountability for such actions on television. The National Commission for Women has summoned Allahbadia and fellow judge Sameer Raina for questioning on February 17th. Several Bollywood celebrities have also condemned Allahbadia’s comments.

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