Mamata Objects To Interlocutors Appointment In Darjeeling
The CM then pointed out, It is a matter of grave concern that without any further communication in response to my letter and despite your kind intervention, the Office of the Interlocuter under Ministry of Home Affairs, has, vide Memo dated 10th November 2025, communicated that the office of the interlocutor has already started functioning.
KOLKATA: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee wrote a strongly worded letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to revoke the appointment of an interlocutor for Darjeeling. This comes exactly 29 days after her first letter on 18 October. The Centre had appointed former deputy national security adviser Pankaj Kumar Mishra as 'interlocutor and government representative' on the issue of 'Darjeeling, the Dooars and the Terai', prompting the chief minister to oppose the move. In her second letter written to the Prime Minister today, Mamata said, It is a matter of grave concern that without any further communication in response to my letter and despite your kind intervention, the Office of the Interlocutor under Ministry of Home Affairs, has, vide Memo dated 10th November 2025, communicated that the office of the interlocutor has already started functioning. This is really shocking. The state government categorically rejects and strongly objects to this unconstitutional, arbitrary and politically coloured interference in the internal affairs of the State, the chief minister said in the letter. This unilateral and arbitrary action of the Central Government, undertaken without any consultation or concurrence of the Government of West Bengal, is wholly unconstitutional, without jurisdiction, and devoid of any legal sanctity. The said order has no foundation either in the Constitution of India or in any valid statutory provision, the letter added. The Darjeeling region is an inseparable and integral part of the State of West Bengal. It is governed by the Gorkha Territorial Administration Act, 2011, and a law duly enacted by the West Bengal Legislative Assembly and notified on 12th March, 2012, after getting the Presidential assent. The Act was designed to ensure self-governance in Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kurseong subdivisions, and under Section 2(h) of the said Act, the appropriate Government is expressly defined as the Government of the State of West Bengal, the letter stated. Pankaj Mishra, appointed in the rank of the secretary to the Union government, had been tasked with taking forward and recommending measures for social and economic upliftment, cultural recognition, preservation of the cultural heritage of Gorkhas in the region and addressing their aspiration within the constitutional framework of the country. Many believe that the latest development is an indicator that the Centre is looking to tread the issue cautiously following Mamatas strong objections. CM Mamata had immediately written to Modi expressing her surprise and consternation over the appointment, objecting to the unilateral decision of the Centre. The appointment of the interlocutor also comes at a time when the Assembly elections are scheduled in April-May next year in the state. The Opposition BJP, which has marked a phenomenal rise here since the 2009 Lok Sabha polls, has not fulfilled two of its key promises to Darjeeling. These include finding a 'permanent political solution' for the region, which is generally interpreted as Gorkhaland in the Darjeeling hills, even though the BJP has not specified what the term means, and granting tribal status to 11 Gorkha communities. If the support for Gorkhaland is unanimous in the Darjeeling hills, the Opposition to it is as strong in the rest of Bengal, an observer added. The Darjeeling hills elect three MLAs in the 294-seat Bengal Assembly.
West Bengal Party Keen To Join North East Leaders' United Political Front
The push to create a unified regional political front in the North East and North Bengal has gathered momentum, with West Bengal's Darjeeling district-based party, the Indian Gorkha Janshakti Front, expressing interest in joining the newly formed
West Bengal to Name New Stadium After Cricketer Richa Ghosh
Mamata Banerjee announces Darjeelings new cricket stadium will honour Indias rising star from Siliguri.
Minimum temperature in Bengal's districts to be below normal by 2 to 3 notches: IMD
The tourist hill town of Darjeeling recorded the lowest temperature in West Bengal on Thursday at 7 degree Celsius,
West Bengal's mandate for schools to sing the state anthem sparked pushback in Darjeeling, where the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration insisted on maintaining local Nepali anthems and prayers. This highlights how daily school rituals become arenas for negotiating language, identity, and belonging, revealing that shared citizenship doesn't necessitate uniform cultural symbols.
Bangladeshi national held with fake Indian IDs in Bengal
A Bangladeshi national was caught with Indian identity cards in Bengdubi, Darjeeling. This occurred during a security drive and document check of civil personnel. The individual possessed an Aadhaar card, PAN card, and Voter ID. He was handed over to the police for further investigation. This incident highlights the ongoing efforts to enhance military station security and identify potential threats.
Sovan Rejoins TMC After 7 Years
The political heavyweights comeback became certain following his recent meeting with chief minister and party supremo Mamata Banerjee in Darjeeling and his subsequent appointment as the chairman of the New Town Kolkata Development Authority under the state urban development department
GUWAHATI: Fans could not hold back their tears, both inside and outside theatre halls, after watching Roi Roi Binale , the last film featuring music icon Zubeen Garg, who died under mysterious circumstances while swimming in the sea in Singapore on September 19. The movie, directed by Rajesh Bhuyan and released on Friday, ran to packed houses across Assam and broke all opening day records, with most theatre halls scheduling up to five shows a day. The screening started as early as 4.25 am at several theatres. Tickets for all shows for the first week were sold out, and fans had booked the first three days tickets within an hour last week. The state is still grieving Gargs untimely demise, and there was an outpouring of emotion as fans thronged single-screen and multiplex theatres. In viral videos, some were seen seated long after shows were over, sobbing. As a mark of silent tribute, several theatre halls kept one seat reserved for Garg, 52. Roi Roi Binale was his dream project. For the first time in the history of Assamese films, a movie is being released in different parts of the country. It was screened in Patna, Ranchi, Dhanbad, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Mysore, Vellore, Visakhapatnam, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Lucknow, Jaipur, Vapi (Gujarat), Indore, Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Raniganj, Maldah, Siliguri, Agartala, Dharmanagar, Cooch Behar, Raipur and Nagpur, said Siddharth Goenka, the films distributor. As a mark of silent tribute, several theatre halls kept one seat reserved for Garg, 52. Roi Roi Binale was his dream project. In cities like Bengaluru, Assamese films were earlier screened in only one or two theatres, but this time, it premiered in 17 theatres simultaneously. There will be 600 shows daily in Assam and the rest of the Northeast alone, which is unprecedented. Outside the Northeast, 96 halls would screen the movie with 170 shows daily, Goenka added. The Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), a constituent of Assams ruling coalition, booked all 218 seats for a show at a multiplex in Guwahati. AGP ministers Atul Bora and Keshab Mahanta watched the film along with party leaders and workers. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said he would watch it privately. If I go to a cinema hall, it will cause inconvenience to people as I will be accompanied by my security personnel, he said. Garg plays the lead role of a blind musician in Roi Roi Binale , a musical love story that recounts the life and struggle of a visually impaired artist who experiences the world through sound, imagination and love. The film features 11 songs, all composed by Garg himself.
Three die as car falls into ditch in Darjeeling hills
KOLKATA: At least three persons were killed and five others injured when a vehicle rolled into a ditch on way to Kurseong from Darjeeling in West Bengal, a senior police officer said Friday. The accident occurred in the hills on Thursday night when the driver failed to negotiate a sharp bend. While two persons died on the spot, another succumbed later. The injured are being treated in a hospital, the officer said. The hill region was lashed by rain on Thursday, and the Met Office predicted heavy showers in some pockets on October 31. A probe is underway to ascertain factors behind the accident, the officer said.
All 143 block-level officers have resumed their duties. SIR-related camps are now underway in Jalpaiguri, Coochbehar, and Darjeeling. The West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer's website has seen one crore hits. Special steps are being urged for former enclave residents to ensure their voting rights.
Cyclone Montha to Bring Heavy Rain Over Bengal
The IMD warned that landslides may occur in the hilly areas of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, owing to the downpour
Gorkha body honours eminent ecologist Dr Eklabya Sharma
By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Oct 28: The Gorkha Association Shillong on Tuesday felicitated Dr Eklabya Sharma, an eminent Indian ecologist and environmental scientist and specialist, who was awarded Padma Shri in 2024, at a special felicitation function in his honour at Upper Mawprem Cultural Centre, Shillong. Dr Sharma hails from Kurseong, Darjeeling, and attends his []
Cyclone Montha to bring heavy rain in several West Bengal districts
KOLKATA: Cyclone Montha is likely to bring heavy rain in several districts across West Bengal from Tuesday to Friday, the IMD said. The weather system, situated over the Bay of Bengal, is likely to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall near Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday night, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in a special bulletin. The Met advised fishermen not to venture into the sea along and off the West Bengal coast till Thursday. It warned of the possibility of landslides in the hilly areas of Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts and waterlogging in low-lying areas in the plains. While light to moderate rain is expected over many places in south Bengal, heavy rain is likely to occur over North and South 24 Parganas, Purba and Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, Purulia, Purba and Paschim Bardhaman, Birbhum and Murshidabad districts between Tuesday and Friday, it said. The IMD said heavy to very heavy rainfall (7 to 20 cm) is likely over the north Bengal districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar, and heavy downpour is likely over Uttar and Dakshin Dinajpur and Malda districts. Coastal Andhra, Odisha on high alert as Cyclone Montha approaches
West Bengal Government appoints task force for flood reconstruction work in North Bengal
Darjeeling MP Raju Bista claimed that his convoy was attacked in Darjeeling district on Saturday. Stones were thrown on his convoy and one vehicle of the MPs convoy suffered minor damage
Didi Urges PM Modi to Revoke Darjeeling Interlocutors Appointment
Calling the move unilateral, Ms Banerjee also urged the PM to revoke it.
In letter to Modi, Mamata seeks revocation of appointment of interlocutor on Gorkha issues
KOLKATA, Oct 18: Expressing surprise and shock over the appointment of an interlocutor to hold discussions on the issues relating to Gorkhas, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and demanded revocation of the decision. Banerjee claimed her government was not consulted before retired IPS officer Pankaj Kumar Singh was appointed as an interlocutor to hold discussions on the issues relating to Gorkhas in Darjeeling Hills, Terai and Dooars regions of West Bengal, [] The post In letter to Modi, Mamata seeks revocation of appointment of interlocutor on Gorkha issues appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Centre names interlocutor to hold talks with Gurkhas
Political parties in the Darjeeling Hills have hailed the appointment of the interlocutor
'Mahakaal' temple will be constructed in Siliguri: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee
KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said that a large 'Mahakaal' temple will come up in Siliguri, for which a trust will be formed. Speaking to reporters in Darjeeling, she said the temple will be constructed next to the proposed convention centre in Siliguri. Mahakaal is another name of Lord Shiva in Hindu mythology. A large Mahakaal temple will come up near the proposed convention centre in Siliguri. For this, a trust needs to be formed, she said after offering prayers at the Mahakaal temple in Darjeeling. Banerjee is also credited with setting up the Jagannath temple in Digha. The chief minister is on a public outreach programme in North Bengal, which had suffered heavily due to torrential rains and landslides in which 32 people had lost their lives. She said the land for the temple will be given by the state government, while the construction of the temple will take some time.
Death & Displacement: Bengals Climate Wake-Up Call
At least 28 people were dead across Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar. Over 100 landslides were recorded in just two days.
Didi Wants Bhutan to Check Water to Stop Flood in Bengal
Ms Banerjee said at an administrative meeting in Darjeeling, I don't want to throw funds into the water. First, water from Bhutan has to be reduced. Whoever represents us will have to tell them that they need to help us since a huge devastation happened here. Secondly, Bengal has to be made a member.
Mamata Banerjee announced Rs 1.2 lakh for families who lost homes in landslides
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited Mirik, Darjeeling, after devastating landslides. She met affected families and promised financial aid for damaged homes. Relief efforts are underway, including rebuilding houses and bridges. The Chief Minister highlighted the swift distribution of compensation and jobs to victims. Administrative meetings reviewed ongoing work, with all affected areas cleared and relief camps operational.
Darjeeling landslides: The mountains mourn
Over 30 people have lost their lives in floods and landslides in West Bengal last week. Darjeeling, the Queen of Hills in the States northernmost part was particularly affected. Many people here remain missing in the remotest areas. Beyond the political mudslinging, Shrabana Chatterjee reports on the stories of devastation, even as the floodwaters recede
Darjeeling landslides: The mountains mourn
Over 30 people have lost their lives in floods and landslides in West Bengal last week. Darjeeling, the Queen of Hills in the States northernmost part was particularly affected. Many people here remain missing in the remotest areas. Beyond the political mudslinging, Shrabana Chatterjee reports on the stories of devastation, even as the floodwaters recede
Women District Magistrates lead relief, rescue operations in flood battered North Bengal
Jalpaiguri DM Shama Parveen and Darjeeling DM Preeti Goyal led the relief and rescue operations in their respective districts, ensuring that no person affected by the floods was left behind
Unplanned construction, climate fury wreck Darjeeling
Unregulated construction and deforestation, exacerbated by climate change, have caused widespread devastation in Darjeeling's hills, particularly Mirik. Incessant rains triggered massive landslides, claiming over 30 lives and displacing numerous families. The Chief Minister is reviewing restoration efforts and providing aid to affected communities.
Mamata to revisit flood-hit north Bengal to review relief, rehab efforts
KOLKATA: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will on Sunday again visit natural calamity-hit north Bengal to oversee the ongoing relief and rehabilitation work, officials said. She will also hold a series of administrative meetings to expedite assistance to the affected families, they said. At least 32 people have been killed and thousands left homeless in landslides and floods in the northern districts of West Bengal since October 4, following heavy rain. Banerjee was in north Bengal for four days since October 5 to oversee the relief work. The CM will, during the day, visit Hasimara in Alipurduar district, where she will chair a high-level review meeting before touring multiple districts, including Darjeeling, to assess the extent of the damage, the officials said, adding she is expected to stay a few days in the region. Officials said a preliminary assessment report has been prepared, indicating that around 12,000 houses have been damaged, of which nearly 6,000 have completely collapsed in the disaster. The figures are, however, yet to be officially confirmed or released, they said. The chief minister had earlier announced financial aid for all affected families and directed district authorities to disburse assistance with wartime urgency. Relief camps have been set up in several areas, providing cooked food and temporary shelter to displaced residents. 'Man-made disaster': Environmentalists blame unplanned urbanisation for Darjeeling landslides The state administration has also restored road connectivity in most locations where transport links were disrupted due to the calamity, officials said. Banerjee has instructed officials to prioritise rehabilitation efforts and complete damage assessments swiftly. The BJP mocked the chief minister's visit, with Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, sharing a video on Saturday, claiming that police personnel were busy arranging and displaying party flags along the roads instead of focusing on relief work. Opposition parties have launched fundraising drives to support victims of the north Bengal disaster. Senior CPI(M) leader Biman Bose was seen collecting funds in Belgachia in Kolkata, where he indirectly blamed unregulated and rampant construction in the hills for aggravating the loss of lives and property. The BJP-controlled Lebutala puja committee has also been collecting donations from local markets for relief efforts. Flash floods, landslides devastate over 30 Darjeeling tea gardens; Rs 50 crore loss feared: Planters
Indian Tea Association urges price stability, relief for Darjeeling sector
The Indian Tea Association is calling for government intervention to stabilize tea prices. They propose production controls and export support. The association also wants regulated tea imports with minimum prices. This comes as the tea sector faces significant financial strain. Over 80% of organized tea estates reported cash losses last year.
Govt to award people who risked lives during rescue operations in North Bengal disaster
West Bengal government will honor firefighters, SDRF, police, engineers, and doctors for their bravery during the recent northern Bengal disaster. The chief minister is also set to visit Darjeeling to review reconstruction efforts. Separately, the state plans to protest the DVC's alleged unannounced water release, which caused flooding in south Bengal.
Due to severe weather, including landslides and heavy rainfall, schools across Darjeeling, Karnataka, and Jammu will remain closed on October 9, 2025. Authorities have prioritised student safety, urging families to stay updated on local notifications regarding school holidays.
BJP MLA Manoj Oraon attacked while distributing flood relief materials
ALIPURDUAR: BJP MLA Manoj Kumar Oraon was on Tuesday allegedly attacked by Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers while distributing flood relief materials in Alipurduar, a day after two senior BJP leaders were assaulted by a mob in adjoining Jalpaiguri district. Oraon, who sustained injuries in the incident, claimed that a group of TMC workers attacked him and his supporters when they were distributing relief items among flood-affected villagers in his constituency Kumargram. He was later taken to a hospital for treatment. While trying to help flood-hit people, I was suddenly surrounded and attacked. This is the state of democracy under the TMC, Oraon reportedly said from the hospital. The TMC, however, denied the charges and dubbed them as aseless. The charges are baseless. It was Manoj Oraon who had assaulted an aged man in his area first, a local TMC leader said. The West Bengal unit of the BJP strongly condemned the incident, accusing the ruling TMC of error politics in the state. Whenever we stand beside flood-hit people in north Bengal, the TMC unleashes its rampage! In Mamata Banerjee's rule, even showing solidarity with people in distress has become a crime! BJP MLA Manoj Kumar Oraon, party workers, and central forces were attacked, the party posted on X along with a video of the attack. PTI , however, could not independently verify the authenticity of the video. Bengal BJP demands NIA probe into attack on party MP, MLA in Jalpaiguri, Governor visits injured leaders The TMC does not understand the language of humanity, it only understands the politics of terror. While the people of north Bengal await help amid the devastation caused by floods, the TMC remains busy spreading fear and violence. Trinamool's politics means nothing but hooliganism, lies, and hatred, the BJP said in a post on X. The BJP also shared visuals on social media showing the injured MLA being taken to the hospital and several damaged vehicles in the area. This latest attack comes barely a day after BJP MP Khagen Murmu and Siliguri MLA Sankar Ghosh were injured in an assault during relief distribution in Jalpaiguri district's Nagrakata area on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Monday criticised the TMC regime for its pathetic law and order situation, while Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hit back, accusing him of politicising a natural disaster. Large parts of north Bengal, including Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Darjeeling, have been reeling under severe floods and landslides following torrential rains over the past week, which have left at least 30 people dead and many missing.
'Landslides in 35 Locations...': Rescuers Scramble to Deliver Aid in Darjeeling
Experts say climate change has worsened the frequency and intensity of floods and landslides across South Asia.
West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya on Tuesday demanded an NIA investigation into the assault on party MP Khagen Murmu and MLA Sankar Ghosh during their visit to the flood and landslide-hit Nagrakata area in Jalpaiguri district a day ago. Both Murmu and Ghosh are currently undergoing treatment at a private medical facility in Siliguri. We demand an NIA investigation into the attack on Murmu and Ghosh, the state BJP president said while addressing a press conference here. The party leaders were attacked by a mob during their visit to the flood and landslide-hit Nagrakata area in Jalpaiguri district. Bhattacharya termed the attack on Murmu, the BJP's MP from Maldaha Uttar, and Ghosh, the Siliguti MLA and the party chief whip in the West Bengal assembly, as pre-planned. He alleged that the two BJP leaders were attacked to create an atmosphere of terror and division on religious lines among people of north Bengal. Alleging that the attack was perpetrated by illegal Bangladeshi immigrants and Rohingyas, the BJP state president claimed that the state police had not taken any action to prevent the assault. The Trinamool Congress is engineering attacks at various places to create a fear psychosis among people before the initiation of special intensive revision of electoral rolls, Bhattacharya claimed. If anyone thinks that by attacking BJP parliamentarians and legislators they can create fear among our workers, they are mistaken, Bhattacharya asserted. It is reported that, Murmu may require a surgical intervention to treat the serious facial injuries, including a fractured bone below his eye. The health condition of Murmu, who is still in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital, is stable, he said. Murmu has sustained serious facial injuries, including a fractured bone below the eye. He is currently undergoing treatment in the ICU. We are evaluating his condition from time to time and found him to be stable, the official said, according to PTI . The MP may undergo a surgical intervention to treat the injuries. Our doctors are diagnosing it, he said. The health condition of Ghosh, who is also undergoing treatment at the same hospital, is stable, the official added. Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose visited the two injured leaders at the hospital, according to a Raj Bhavan official said. Bose inquired about the health condition of Murmu and Ghosh, he said. The governor met the two BJP leaders in the hospital and enquired about their condition. He also spoke to the doctors and the family members of the leaders, the Raj Bhavan official said. West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose meets BJP MP Khagen Murmu after he was attacked by a mob in Jalpaiguri district's Nagrakata area while visiting relief sites, in Siliguri, Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025. Bose is in north Bengal to assess the ground situation after landslides, triggered by heavy rains, devastated parts of the Darjeeling hills and killed at least 30 people. The governor had on Monday criticised the attack on the BJP leaders and urged the authorities to ensure that law and order is maintained in the area and such incidents do not recur. (With inputs from PTI) Darjeeling landslide toll rises to 24 as rescue efforts continue amid rainfall
Heard Rocks Striking Our House: Survivor Recounts Darjeeling Horror
A community hall is a shelter to over 20 families from Darjeeling's Soureni village which was struck by devastating landslides and floods two days ago.
Showers drench north India, fresh snowfall in J-K; toll in north Bengal landslides rises to 28
NEW DELHI, Oct 6: Rain lashed parts of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan, while fresh snowfall was reported in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir, causing the mercury to drop in several northern states on Monday. In West Bengal, the death toll in Darjeeling landslides rose to 28 on Monday with six people still missing, as rescue teams battled rising waters across the hills. The disaster has also ignited a fierce political confrontation between the ruling [] The post Showers drench north India, fresh snowfall in J-K; toll in north Bengal landslides rises to 28 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Broken roads, lost signals leave tourists unreachable in North Bengal
Tourists, including foreigners, are stranded in North Bengal's Darjeeling and Alipurduar due to incessant rains, with horrifying experiences reported. Airfares have skyrocketed, and tour operators are concerned about remote homestays. The Chief Minister stated that many tourists have been rescued and arrangements are being made for those still stranded.
Didi Calls Darjeeling Disaster Man-Made, Offers 5 Lakhs, Jobs to Victims Kin
She said, There was a 300-mm rainfall which continued for 12 hours straight in North Bengal.
Darjeeling landslides claim 18 lives; roads, bridges destroyed, BJP slams govt for negligence
West Bengal rains, landslides: Mamata announces compensation for families of deceased
Darjeeling districts Mirik, a popular tourist spot, was the worst affected, with at least 11 bodies recovered from the area. Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar districts have all been hit hard by the rains. Many people are still missing, and the death toll is expected to rise.
Damodar Valley Corporation released water from its reservoirs. This action raised flood concerns in southern West Bengal districts. Rivers in the region were already swollen by heavy rainfall. The state government criticized a previous water release. North Bengal also faced heavy rains. Landslides in Darjeeling district killed 24 people. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely.
Death Count In Darjeeling Landslides Rises To 24, Rescue Ops Underway
The toll in the devastating landslides in West Bengal's Darjeeling district rose to 24, as disaster management personnel continued the rescue operation on Monday with several people still missing.
Bengal Governor cuts short personal visit to southern states, rushes to landslide-hit Darjeeling
The Governor will also submit a report in the evening with specific recommendations to the competent authorities
Toll in Darjeeling landslides rises to 24, rescue ops on as several people remain missing
DARJEELING (WB), Oct 6: The toll in the devastating landslides in West Bengals Darjeeling district rose to 24, as disaster management personnel continued the rescue operation on Monday with several people still missing and thousands of tourists stranded in cut-off hill pockets, officials said. North Bengal Development Minister Udayan Guha said the toll rose with the recovery of one more body late Sunday night. The situation remains extremely challenging. Several people are still missing, and the toll is likely to [] The post Toll in Darjeeling landslides rises to 24, rescue ops on as several people remain missing appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
J&K: Parts of Srinagar get heavy rain, IMD predicts thunderstorm, gusty winds
Heavy rainfall impacted Srinagar, with more predicted by IMD. Schools in Jammu were closed due to forecasts, while earlier rains damaged Rajouri. Meanwhile, incessant downpours in North Bengal caused severe landslides, waterlogging, and extensive damage, leading to 18 fatalities in Darjeeling.
Darjeeling landslide toll rises to 24 as rescue efforts continue amid rainfall
DARJEELING: The death toll from the devastating landslides in West Bengals Darjeeling district has risen to 24, as rescue operations continue with several people still missing and thousands of tourists stranded in isolated hill areas, officials said on Monday. North Bengal Development Minister Udayan Guha confirmed the toll increased following the recovery of one more body late on Sunday night. The situation remains extremely challenging. Several people are still missing, and the toll is likely to rise. Continuous rainfall is hampering rescue efforts, he told PTI. Triggered by over 300 mm of rain in just 12 hours, the landslides have ravaged large parts of the Darjeeling hills and the Dooars region at the foothills, according to officials. Among the worst-affected areas are Mirik, Sukhiapokhri and Jorebunglow in Darjeeling district, and Nagrakata in Jalpaiguri. Rescue operations, led by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), are ongoing across multiple sites, with heavy earth-moving machinery deployed to locate individuals feared trapped beneath debris. Clearing operations are underway at more than 40 landslide points. Our teams are working around the clock to reopen the MirikDarjeeling and Sukhiapokhri roads, an official said. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is scheduled to visit the affected areas later today. At least 20, including children killed as heavy rain triggers landslides in West Bengals Darjeeling Relief camps have been set up by the district administration in coordination with the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) and local NGOs. Food, blankets, medicines, and drinking water are being provided to all displaced families, an official confirmed. A GTA official stated that road connectivity to several hamlets remained cut off even 24 hours after the disaster. Entire slopes have caved in, bridges have been washed away, and large portions of roads are buried under mud. Helicopter sorties may be necessary to reach some remote villages, he added. Hundreds of tourists who had travelled to the hills for Durga Puja holidays remain stranded, as arterial roads to Siliguri at the foothills are blocked. Efforts are being made to help them reach Siliguri in batches via alternative routes, another official noted. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued heavy to very heavy rainfall in the region until Tuesday morning, with an alert issued for Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Cooch Behar districts. Given the saturated soil and ongoing rain, the risk of fresh landslides remains high, said an IMD official.
Rains LIVE: At least 23 killed in worst Darjeeling landslides in a decade
CM Mamata Banerjee opens 24x7 control room, to visit North Bengal today
IMD Today Weather Update: India faces widespread heavy rainfall today. Authorities warn of continuing flood risks in eastern regions. West Bengal reports 28 deaths and dozens missing in Darjeeling hills. Mirik remains cut off. Delhi-NCR expects rain and gusty winds. Eastern and central states anticipate heavy showers. Weather systems bring widespread disruption.
West Bengal floods: 28 dead, dozens missing as landslides devastate Darjeeling hills; Mirik cut off
North Bengal experienced a devastating deluge, claiming 28 lives and leaving dozens missing, with Mirik severely impacted by flash floods and landslides. Crucial infrastructure, including key bridges, collapsed, isolating towns and stranding hundreds of tourists. Authorities are deploying rescue teams and monitoring the situation as rivers run above danger levels following extremely heavy rainfall.
Bengal floods: Trajectory change of low-pressure system led to havoc
North Bengal faced devastating floods due to an unexpected recurve of a low-pressure system, meteorologists confirmed. Originating in the Bay of Bengal, the system shifted from its usual path towards north Bihar, bringing extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 200mm in areas like Darjeeling. This unusual trajectory, influenced by retreating monsoon winds, also impacted Kolkata.
Heavy overnight rain caused landslides and flooding in North Bengal. At least 28 people died, mostly in Mirik. Bridges collapsed, isolating towns and stranding tourists. Rescue operations are ongoing in affected areas. The Chief Minister announced immediate assistance. Rivers are flowing above danger levels. Animals fled submerged forests.
PM Modi issues statement after Darjeeling landslides: 'Authorities are closely...'
PM Modi on Sunday expressed deep concern over the heavy rainfall and landslides in Darjeeling and offered condolences to families who lost loved ones, wishing those injured a speedy recovery while assuring that authorities were closely monitoring the situation. Read on to know more.
20 killed after rain triggers landslides in Darjeeling Hills
Incessant rains triggered devastating landslides and floods across North Bengal, killing at least 20 people and injuring many. The deluge damaged homes, collapsed bridges, and blocked major highways, stranding thousands of tourists. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced compensation, while NDRF teams are actively engaged in rescue operations amidst widespread destruction.
20 Killed In Darjeeling Landslides, Tourist Spots Closed; CM To Visit Site Tomorrow | Top Updates
At least 20 killed in Mirik and Darjeeling hills as rain triggers landslides. CM Mamata Banerjee and Governor to visit. PM Modi and President Murmu express grief.
Witnesses Narrate Darjeeling Bridge Collapse Horror, How They Escaped
Residents in West Bengal's Darjeeling narrated the horror they lived through in the pitch black night at 2.30 am when a key bridge in the area collapsed. A local told NDTV the bridge took along two houses as it came crashing down into the river.
West Bengal BJP criticized CM Mamata Banerjee for attending a Durga Puja carnival as over 20 people died in Darjeeling landslides. BJP leaders accused her of indifference and prioritizing festivities over governance during a natural disaster. The Trinamool Congress defended her, stating she is monitoring the situation and will visit affected areas soon.
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PM Modi Condoles Loss Of Lives Due To Bridge Mishap In Darjeeling
The situation in Darjeeling and surrounding areas is being closely monitored in the wake of heavy rains and landslides. We are committed to providing all possible assistance to those affected, he added in his post
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday expressed deep concern over the devastating floods and landslides that have killed at least 17 people in Darjeeling and cut off road connectivity to key routes, including access to Sikkim
Torrential rains have unleashed widespread devastation in Darjeeling, triggering massive landslides that claimed at least nine lives and isolated remote villages. Homes and tea gardens were buried, and a crucial bridge collapsed, disrupting transportation. Rescue efforts face challenging terrain and continuous rainfall. Authorities are monitoring the dire situation as IMD issued a red alert, urging expedited aid for affected communities.
We also covered: 14 Killed As Heavy Rain Triggers Landslides In Darjeeling and Sonam Wangchuk Demands Judicial Probe In Ladakh Violence Deaths.
Nine dead, two missing as heavy rain triggers massive landslides in Darjeeling
Darjeeling: At least nine people died and two others went missing as incessant heavy rainfall triggered multiple landslides across the Darjeeling hills on Saturday, sweeping away homes, damaging roads, and cutting off several remote hamlets, officials said. Rescue and relief operations are underway by the local administration, police, and disaster response teams, Darjeeling Sub-Divisional Officer Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
7 killed in landslide in Darjeeling; Rescue Ops Underway
Darjeeling, Oct 5: At least seven people were killed in a major landslide triggered by incessant rainfall in the Darjeeling subdivision of West Bengal on Saturday, officials said. The landslide, which occurred near one of the hill slopes on the Mirik-Sukhiapokhri road, disrupted vehicular movement and snapped communication links to several nearby areas, they said. [] The post 7 killed in landslide in Darjeeling; Rescue Ops Underway appeared first on Northlines .
PM Modi has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in a bridge mishap triggered by heavy rains in Darjeeling. He said the situation in the region is being closely monitored.
Seven Killed In Landslide In Darjeeling; Rescue Operations Underway
Darjeeling, Oct 5: At least seven people were killed in a major landslide triggered by incessant rainfall in the Darjeeling subdivision of West Bengal on Saturday, officials said. The landslide, which occurred near one of the hill slopes on the Mirik-Sukhiapokhri road, disrupted vehicular movement and snapped communication links to several nearby areas, they said. At least seven deaths have been reported due to a major landslide in Darjeeling subdivision triggered by heavy rainfall since last night. We dont have [] The post Seven Killed In Landslide In Darjeeling; Rescue Operations Underway appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Several feared dead as heavy rain triggers landslips in Darjeeling
The official said that rescue and relief operations are currently underway, with local administration, police, and disaster response teams rushing to the spot
Seven killed after heavy rain triggers landslides in West Bengal's Darjeeling
At least seven people were killed after heavy rainfall triggered a major landslide in in Darjeeling district of West Bengal on Sunday morning. An official said that rescue and relief operations are currently underway. At least seven deaths have been reported due to a major landslide in Darjeeling subdivision triggered by heavy rainfall since last night. We don't have the exact figures right now as the rescue and relief work has just started, Darjeeling Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Richard Lepcha told PTI. The region has been placed under a red alert due to persistent heavy rainfall. The Dudia Iron Bridge, connecting Mirik and Kurseong, has also collapsed, cutting off access to key towns. The bridge collapse has further complicated rescue and relief efforts. #WATCH | West Bengal Movement of vehicles has been restricted on the Siliguri-Darjeeling SH-12 road after a portion of Dudhia iron bridge collapsed due to heavy rain in North Bengal. pic.twitter.com/0Rv61YekTa ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2025 Visuals on social media show large swathes of road covered in debris, highlighting the scale of disruption. Teams from the State Disaster Management Department and the Darjeeling district administration have been deployed, along with local volunteers, to assist in the rescue operations. Further details are awaited. (With inputs from PTI)
Several feared dead after heavy rain triggers landslides in West Bengal's Darjeeling
Several people are feared dead after heavy rainfall triggered landslides in parts of Mirik in Darjeeling district on Sunday morning. An official said that rescue and relief operations are currently underway, with the local administration, police, and disaster response teams rushing to the spot. Several casualties are feared due to a major landslide in Darjeeling district, triggered by heavy rainfall since last night. We don't have the exact figures right now, as the rescue and relief work has just started, the officer told PTI. Unconfirmed reports claim that 11 people have died in the landslide, according to PTI. The region has been placed under a red alert due to persistent heavy rainfall. The Dudia Iron Bridge, connecting Mirik and Kurseong, has also collapsed, cutting off access to key towns. The bridge collapse has further complicated rescue and relief efforts. #WATCH | West Bengal Movement of vehicles has been restricted on the Siliguri-Darjeeling SH-12 road after a portion of Dudhia iron bridge collapsed due to heavy rain in North Bengal. pic.twitter.com/0Rv61YekTa ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2025 Visuals on social media show large swathes of road covered in debris, highlighting the scale of disruption. Teams from the State Disaster Management Department and the Darjeeling district administration have been deployed, along with local volunteers, to assist in the rescue operations. Further details are awaited. (With inputs from PTI)
West Bengal rains: Several dead as landslides hit Darjeeling district; iron bridge collapses
Kalimpong faced multiple landslides on Saturday after continuous heavy rainfall, disrupting traffic on NH10 and NH717A. Authorities confirmed no major damage or casualties, with teams actively clearing debris to restore connectivity. Heavy rain is predicted for West Bengal until October 6 due to a Bay of Bengal depression, urging vigilance.
14 Dead In Darjeeling As Heavy Rain Hits North Bengal, Tourist Spots Shut
Continuous overnight rain has caused severe disruptions across North Bengal, with at least three people reported dead due to landslides in Darjeeling's Mirik and Sukhia Pokhari.
Darjeeling landslide: At least 6 dead after bridge collapse, roads cut off; IMD warns of...
West Bengal's Darjeeling has been hit by severe landslides and a bridge collapse due to heavy rainfall, resulting in at least six deaths. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the region, indicating heavy rainfall is expected.
Rain Havoc In North Bengal: Multiple Landslides In Darjeeling Leave 5 Dead; IMD Issue Warnings
North Bengal Weather Update: A landslide on National Highway 717E, the alternative route connecting Siliguri and Sikkim, has brought traffic to a standstill.
Viral video: Goddess Durga's idol taken on iconic toy train for immersion in Darjeeling
A video shared online shows devotees surrounding the idol on the platform, offering prayers before it was placed on the train for its journey to the immersion site.
Government launches courses on tea tasting & tea sommeliers
The government launched NCVET-approved skill courses for tea sommeliers and tasting, announced by Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal. These specialized programs, conducted by Tea Board India at the Darjeeling Tea Research and Development Centre, aim to skill youth and promote tea literacy. Courses include Tea Sommeliers (60 hours) and Fundamentals of Tea Tasting (210 hours).
Parliament panel flags surge in cheap tea imports from Kenya, Nepal; seeks stricter labelling rules
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce is concerned about the surge in cheap tea imports from Kenya and Nepal. They've urged the Tea Board to enforce mandatory labeling and source declaration to protect India-origin tea's reputation. The committee also suggests reviewing the Indo-Nepal trade agreement and implementing strict measures to safeguard Darjeeling tea's GI tag from adulteration.
Darjeeling Toy Train Services To Resume On Thursday After Remaining Suspended Due To Landslides
Kolkata, Sep 17: Services of the iconic Darjeeling toy train will resume on Thursday after remaining suspended for two days due to landslides caused by heavy rains, an official said. Following minor landslides on the route, mainly between Tinbatti and Tindharia stations, the services were suspended between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling for two days as a precautionary measure, he said. The services on the route will resume from Thursday, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) Director Rishabh Chaudhary said. The DHR operates [] The post Darjeeling Toy Train Services To Resume On Thursday After Remaining Suspended Due To Landslides appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Earthquake of magnitude 5.9 strikes Assam, jolts major parts of North Bengal
An earthquake of magnitude 5.9 struck near Dhekiajuli, Assam, on Sunday jolted major parts of West Bengal's northern district, especially in the Dooars, Terai and Darjeeling region, official sources said.
Border Areas Along Indian Territory On Alert As Nepal PM Resigns Amid Violent Gen-Z Protests
Paramilitary forces and police were on patrol at Panitanki in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal.
IMD forecasts heavy rain in north Bengal till August 29
Get ready for heavy rainfall in northern West Bengal. The India Meteorological Department predicts it for the next two days. Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri are likely to be affected. Light to moderate showers are expected in Gangetic West Bengal. Kolkata may experience thundershowers. Fishermen are advised to avoid deep sea ventures.
Independence Day 2025: Must-visit memorials that keep the spirit of freedom alive
India celebrates its 79th Independence Day. The day honours freedom fighters' sacrifices. The article suggests visiting war memorials. The National War Memorial in New Delhi is a grand tribute. Kargil War Memorial commemorates the 1999 war. Darjeeling War Memorial honours Gorkha soldiers. Chandigarh War Memorial is among the largest.
Towards eradicating human trafficking in India: A focus on West Bengal
In the past week, two major human trafficking attempts have been foiled in our region the first involved rescuing 56 young women from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station near Siliguri in Darjeeling district. The other involved rescuing 34 young women from Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus, in Siliguri. In both cases, the victims are young, vulnerable girls from economically and socially marginalised sections, and hail from remote rural villages of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar districts, mostly from the tea gardens. In the first instance, the women were promised jobs in Bengaluru; however, they were being taken to Patna when they were rescued. In the second case, the women were being transported to Jharkhand by bus when the rescue took place. In both cases, the traffickers claimed that their final destination was the garment factories of Tamil Nadu. Contrast this with the fact that since 2019, 143 workers from West Bengal, including 60 children, have been rescued from bonded labour in gold manufacturing units in Tamil Nadu. Many such instances of vulnerable people from West Bengal, particularly from the Darjeeling hills, Terai and the Dooars region, being lured by human traffickers are coming to light. What is worrisome is that, unfortunately, this is not a new phenomenon. A cursory look at the data from 2018 to 2022, as reported in Parliament in April this year, reveals: 2,278 cases in 2018, 2,208 in 2019, 1,714 in 2020, 2,189 in 2021, and 2,250 in 2022. The noticeable dip in 2020 may be attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic, which impacted both mobility and law enforcement operations. However, the numbers indicate that trafficking continues to be a widespread concern across the country. One of the most affected states during this period has been West Bengal. Its location along the India-Nepal-Bhutan-Bangladesh border, particularly in districts like Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, North and South Dinajpur, Raiganj, Malda, North and South 24 Parganas, and Murshidabad, makes it especially vulnerable to cross-border trafficking. West Bengal, sadly, serves as both a destination and a transit point where trafficked individuals are usually forced into labour or sex work. Despite a sharp decline in reported human trafficking cases in West Bengal, from more than 3,500 in 2016 to only 67 in 2022, most experts caution that the drop could be due to better concealment by traffickers, gaps in reporting, obfuscating data by the state administration, or fear among victims and their families. The actual number of victims is believed to be much higher. If we are to tackle the menace of human trafficking, the first act should be to acknowledge that there is a problem. Obfuscating crime data, particularly that related to human trafficking, further harms the victims of trafficking. Hence, the West Bengal government should be more transparent about reporting crime-related data. The root cause of human trafficking is poverty. The majority of those trafficked are from shut-down tea gardens, as substantiated by one of the recently arrested human trafficking suspects from Siliguri, who said to the media, As the women didnt get jobs at the tea gardens due to the closure of most, they were willingly going to Tamil Nadu for jobs. Hence, it is vital to take necessary steps towards addressing poverty through job creation. Availability of employment opportunities locally will encourage youths from our region to remain here itself, instead of taking grave risks to go and work in distant cities. The next step is to promote community-based initiatives as higher participation of the community will contribute significantly towards lowering instances of human trafficking. We also need to leverage technology to monitor vulnerable regions, and take necessary action to address the key vulnerabilities, including strengthening community organisations, providing financial and economic support to vulnerable families, and encouraging local youths to become involved in sensitisation and monitoring processes. Availability of safe accommodation and temporary shelters for the victims of human trafficking, easy access to legal services, educational and vocational training programmes, and provision of counselling and mental health support are important. Additionally, regulating placement agencies and borders can disrupt trafficking networks. I am grateful to MARG, Darjeeling, for taking a unique initiative of hand-crafting purple roses and delivering them to people across the region on Anti-Human Trafficking Day, commemorated globally on July 30. Purple Rose is not a naturally occurring flower; instead, it is created artificially by people for their pleasure. Hence, it symbolises the victims of human trafficking, who have been reduced to becoming objects of pleasure and sources of profit. Raju Bista Member of Parliament from Darjeeling, and the National Spokesperson, BJP
IMD warns of heavy rain in Darjeeling and other districts of West Bengal
The IMD has issued a heavy rainfall warning for sub-Himalayan West Bengal districts until August 12, with potential for very heavy rainfall on August 11. Several southern districts, including South 24 Parganas and Purulia, are also expected to receive heavy showers until August 9. Kolkata anticipates overcast skies with light to moderate rain.
Strong monsoon flow, cyclonic circulation to bring heavy rain in some Bengal districts: IMD
The IMD has forecast heavy rain across parts of West Bengal till August 6 due to a cyclonic circulation over the north Bay of Bengal. Districts in south Bengal, including Kolkata, may see thunderstorms and gusty winds. North Bengal districts like Darjeeling and Kalimpong could experience very heavy rain from August 24. Canning and Kalimpong recorded 110 mm rainfall.
Indias tea production increases in 2025, Darjeelings output remains a concern
The production of tea across the country from January to May 2025 stood at 336.22 million kg compared to 267.36 million kg between January to May 2024
Kolkata Diary | 8th anti-submarine ship rolls out of Garden Reach
Defence PSU Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd has released the eighth and last ship in a series of anti-submarine warfare shallow water crafts (ASW SWCs) built for the Indian Navy. The ship, named Ajay, was inaugurated at an event in Kolkata on July 21. These ships are versatile platforms and can participate in a variety of operations. Designed with low draughts, the crafts are capable of coastal operations, Low Intensity Maritime Operations, and mine-laying. These 77.6-metre-long and 10.5-metre-wide warships are also capable of full-scale sub-surface surveillance in coastal waters and pack a lethal anti-submarine armory comprising lightweight torpedoes, ASW rockets and mines. Old city ghat set for renovation, deal inked In a significant step towards urban renewal and preservation of heritage spaces, the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata and TNS Logi-Park Pvt Ltd have entered an agreement to breathe new life into historic Doi-Ghat at the heart of the old metropolis. Located on the banks of the Hooghly River, at the confluence of Adi Ganga stream and the main channel, Doi-Ghat derives its name from the Bengali word for curd (doi), reflecting its historical link to the local dairy trade. Once a bustling commercial hub, the ghat served as a market where curd and other goods arrived in earthen pots, especially from Howrah, renowned for its dairy produce. At the intersection of key waterways, Doi-ghat had emerged as a centre for trade and daily dialogue between rural Bengal and the emeging metropolis of Calcutta. 15 new hotels to come up in next 5 years Kolkata-based Ambuja Neotia Group announced an agreement for 15 new hotels with the Indian Hotels Company. This agreement is set to expand the partnership to over 40 hotels. The 15 new sites identified to be developed are a combination of greenfield, brownfield and conversion projects across West Bengal, Sikkim and Himachal Pradesh. These include Taj resorts in Sunderban, Darjeeling, Shimla and Rabong, SeleQtions hotels in Kolkata and Siliguri and Tree of Life in Dooars in North Bengal. The projects are expected to become operational in the next five years. Kaushik Pradhan Our correspondent in West Bengal kaushik@newindianexpress.com
