From Darjeeling to Shillong: Who Decides the Fate of Heritage?
By Bhogtoram Mawroh Tea is us. Tea is not ours. This is the name of a film made by Ugyal Tshering Lama Yolmo, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication at SRM University Sikkim, which encapsulates succinctly the trap in which the people of Darjeeling find themselves in relation to an []
Prashant Tamang's final rites in Darjeeling: Wife Martha breaks down in tears as she pays...
Darjeeling singer Prashant Tamang dies of cardiac arrest
Prashant Tamang death cause: Family says Indian Idol winner 'slept well at night but...'
Tamang, born in West Bengal's Darjeeling, had become a household name after winning the third season of the music reality show Indian Idol. He again came into the limelight with his role as a sniper in the second season of the Prime Video web series Paatal Lok.
ECI clears plantation records as valid SIR documents in north Bengal, says BJPs Suvendu Adhikari
The letter shared by Mr. Adhikari stated that the Commission has conveyed its no objection to accepting tea garden and cinchona plantation records as documents for SIR 2026 in the districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, Uttar Dinajpur and Dakshin Dinajpur
Prashant Tamang dies at 43: Indian Idol 3 fame and noted actor-singer Prashant Tamang died on Sunday reportedly due to a heart attack. He was 43. Born in Darjeeling, Tamang rose to prominence after winning Indian Idol following which he launched his maiden album Dhanyavad, which consisted of songs both in Hindi and Nepali. He worked in Nepali films too. Prashant Tamang made his debut in Hindi entertainment with the role of Daniel Acho in Season 2 of Paatal Lok.
IMD warns of more chill in West Bengal
West Bengal is set for a cold spell. Several districts will experience temperatures below normal for the next three to five days. Morning and forenoon fog is also expected. Darjeeling recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 3.2 degrees Celsius. Sriniketan was the coldest in the plains at 6.2 degrees Celsius. Kolkata's minimum temperature was 10.3 degrees Celsius.
Bengal shivers under cold spell; Kolkata records seasons coldest night of 2025
West Bengal is experiencing severe cold. Minimum temperatures have dropped below 10 degrees Celsius in many areas. The sub-Himalayan districts will continue to face this chill for another week. Light rain or snow is forecast for Darjeeling. South Bengal citizens can expect some relief soon. Morning fog is also predicted across the state.
West Bengal is under a severe cold wave. Dense fog and falling temperatures are disrupting daily life. Air quality has worsened significantly. Kolkata recorded its coldest December morning. Sub-Himalayan districts are experiencing even lower temperatures. Light snowfall is possible in higher reaches. Fog is expected to persist, impacting travel by air, rail, and road.
Cold wave, dense fog grip north and east India
Large parts of north and eastern India continued to reel under intense cold and dense fog on Saturday, disrupting normal life and prompting weather warnings across several states. Sub-zero temperatures were recorded in Kashmir, while parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Jharkhand and West Bengal reported cold day or cold wave conditions, according to the India Meteorological Department. In Uttar Pradesh, dense to very dense fog prevailed across many districts, with daytime temperatures remaining well below normal. Gorakhpur recorded a maximum of 13.2 degrees Celsius, 7.4 degrees below average, while Prayagraj saw a high of 16.8 degrees Celsius, down by over six degrees. Varanasi, Bareilly, Etawah, Bahraich and Barabanki also reported daytime temperatures four to six degrees below normal. Minimum temperatures in the state ranged between 6 and 11 degrees Celsius, with Etawah recording a low of 6.2 degrees. In Lucknow, the maximum temperature stood at 18 degrees Celsius, while high humidity levels contributed to gloomy conditions. The weather department forecast dense fog during late night and morning hours, with dry weather likely to continue. Rajasthan also witnessed cold and dry conditions, with fog reported at isolated places in the Udaipur and Kota divisions. Karauli was the coldest location in the state, recording a minimum temperature of 3.1 degrees Celsius. Jaipur registered a low of 9.6 degrees, while Barmer recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 29 degrees Celsius. The weather is expected to remain cold and dry in the coming days. Punjab and Haryana remained in the grip of intense cold, with dense fog enveloping several areas. In Punjab, Ballowal Saunkhri in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar district was the coldest at 4.4 degrees Celsius. Gurugram recorded the lowest temperature in Haryana at 4.9 degrees Celsius. Chandigarh recorded a minimum temperature of 6.9 degrees Celsius. Dense fog also covered the national capital on Saturday morning, while air quality remained in the very poor category. The overall Air Quality Index stood at 355 at 9 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 7.8 degrees Celsius, with foggy conditions likely to persist through the day. Cold weather conditions prevailed across West Bengal as well, with Darjeeling emerging as the coldest place in the state at 5.8 degrees Celsius. In the plains, Alipurduar recorded a minimum of 8 degrees Celsius. Shallow to moderate fog is likely to continue over parts of the state over the next few days, the IMD said. In Jammu and Kashmir, night temperatures dipped below freezing at most places due to clear skies. Srinagar recorded a low of minus 2.6 degrees Celsius, while Sonamarg was the coldest place in the Union Territory at minus 5.8 degrees. The weather office has forecast generally dry conditions till December 29, with the possibility of rain and snowfall around New Years Eve. Jharkhand also witnessed cold wave conditions, with the mercury dropping below 10 degrees Celsius in several districts. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature at 3.6 degrees Celsius. The IMD issued a yellow alert for cold wave conditions in six districts, warning that the cold spell is likely to persist till Sunday morning. Amid the severe cold, at least four members of a family, including three children, died of suffocation in Bihars Saran district after a fire was lit in a closed room to keep warm. Two others were found unconscious and were admitted to hospital. Police said the incident occurred early Saturday morning in the Bhagwan Bazar area. A forensic investigation has been initiated, and the case is being probed from all angles. (With inputs from PTI)
Fresh protests erupt in West Bengal against Bangladesh lynching
KOLKATA: Fresh incidents of demonstrations in Kolkata and several districts across West Bengal were reported on Wednesday in protest against the brutal killing of a Hindu Bangladeshi youth, Dipu Chandra Das, in Mymensingh. Violence erupted at Howrah Station this afternoon when police prevented demonstrators belonging to the BJP from reaching the Howrah Bridge, the prime lifeline connecting Kolkata and the south Bengal districts. The demonstrators were protesting against the Mymensingh incident in Bangladesh and were involved in heated arguments with security personnel on Howrah Bridge. We will not let anyone hamper normal life and cause trouble to commuters in the name of protest. We will act in accordance with the law to thwart any attempts to create trouble, said a senior officer of Howrah Police. As police prevented the march from proceeding, protesters squatted on the road and attempted to break through barricades, leading to scuffles. Bangladesh government pledges responsibility for family of lynched Hindu worker Dipu Das The area was barricaded, and as protesters raised slogans while sitting on the road, police moved in to disperse them. Police alleged that the demonstrators turned aggressive, forcing security personnel to take action to disperse the protest. Unrest was also reported along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Siliguri of Darjeeling district and Petrapol or Ghozadanga borders in North 24 Parganas district when different groups of Hindutva organisations demonstrated by blocking trucks carrying export and import items. Activists of Sanatani Jatiotabadi Mancha, a Hindutva platform, blocked the road at the Ghozadanga border and prevented trucks carrying goods from entering Bangladesh in protest against the atrocities against minority Hindus in Bangladesh. One agitator, Rajendra Saha, said, We want the Indian government to stop all trade and diplomatic relations with Bangladesh, where minority Hindus like Dipu Chandra Das are being killed and tortured by the majority there. On December 18, Dipu Chandra Das, a 25-year-old garment factory worker, was lynched by a mob and his body set on fire over alleged blasphemy in Baluka in Bangladesh's Mymensingh. Hundreds of people attempted to march to the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission on Tuesday in protest over the attack on minorities in the neighbouring country, but were stopped by the police midway, leading to a clash that left several injured. The rally started from Sealdah and was proceeding towards the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission's office in Park Circus, but was stopped by police in the Beckbagan area. As they tried to breach the barricade, police baton-charged the rallyists. On Monday, senior BJP MLA and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, along with other party leaders and supporters, staged a demonstration near the Deputy High Commission on the same agenda. Adhikari led a rally of around 2,000 people who squatted on the road after he was stopped by police from proceeding further. We want strict punishment for all those involved in the murder of Das. We want atrocities and attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh to be stopped immediately. If there is no end to attacks on Hindus, we will return with 10,000 people on December 26, he threatened. On Tuesday, a similar protest was organised outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. However, chaos erupted soon after as hundreds of protestors affiliated with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal clashed with police. An officer said a 15,000-strong police force was deployed ahead of the demonstration. He said police managed to hold the protesters about 800 metres from the high commission. Anti-Bangladesh protests erupt near Deputy High Commission in Kolkata; 12 arrested
Fresh demonstrations in Kolkata and other districts in WB in protest against Mymensingh incident
KOLKATA: Fresh incidents of demonstrations in Kolkata and several districts across West Bengal were reported on Wednesday in protest against the brutal killing of a Hindu Bangladeshi youth, Dipu Chandra Das, in Mymensingh. Violence erupted at Howrah Station this afternoon when police prevented demonstrators belonging to the BJP from reaching the Howrah Bridge, the prime lifeline connecting Kolkata and the south Bengal districts. The demonstrators were protesting against the Mymensingh incident in Bangladesh and were involved in heated arguments with security personnel on Howrah Bridge. We will not let anyone hamper normal life and cause trouble to commuters in the name of protest. We will act in accordance with the law to thwart any attempts to create trouble, said a senior officer of Howrah Police. As police prevented the march from proceeding, protesters squatted on the road and attempted to break through barricades, leading to scuffles. Bangladesh government pledges responsibility for family of lynched Hindu worker Dipu Das The area was barricaded, and as protesters raised slogans while sitting on the road, police moved in to disperse them. Police alleged that the demonstrators turned aggressive, forcing security personnel to take action to disperse the protest. Unrest was also reported along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Siliguri of Darjeeling district and Petrapol or Ghozadanga borders in North 24 Parganas district when different groups of Hindutva organisations demonstrated by blocking trucks carrying export and import items. Activists of Sanatani Jatiotabadi Mancha, a Hindutva platform, blocked the road at the Ghozadanga border and prevented trucks carrying goods from entering Bangladesh in protest against the atrocities against minority Hindus in Bangladesh. One agitator, Rajendra Saha, said, We want the Indian government to stop all trade and diplomatic relations with Bangladesh, where minority Hindus like Dipu Chandra Das are being killed and tortured by the majority there. On December 18, Dipu Chandra Das, a 25-year-old garment factory worker, was lynched by a mob and his body set on fire over alleged blasphemy in Baluka in Bangladesh's Mymensingh. Hundreds of people attempted to march to the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission on Tuesday in protest over the attack on minorities in the neighbouring country, but were stopped by the police midway, leading to a clash that left several injured. The rally started from Sealdah and was proceeding towards the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission's office in Park Circus, but was stopped by police in the Beckbagan area. As they tried to breach the barricade, police baton-charged the rallyists. On Monday, senior BJP MLA and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, along with other party leaders and supporters, staged a demonstration near the Deputy High Commission on the same agenda. Adhikari led a rally of around 2,000 people who squatted on the road after he was stopped by police from proceeding further. We want strict punishment for all those involved in the murder of Das. We want atrocities and attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh to be stopped immediately. If there is no end to attacks on Hindus, we will return with 10,000 people on December 26, he threatened. On Tuesday, a similar protest was organised outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. However, chaos erupted soon after as hundreds of protestors affiliated with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal clashed with police. An officer said a 15,000-strong police force was deployed ahead of the demonstration. He said police managed to hold the protesters about 800 metres from the high commission. Anti-Bangladesh protests erupt near Deputy High Commission in Kolkata; 12 arrested
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat begins four-day West Bengal visit amid run-up to assembly polls
KOLKATA: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat arrived at Bagdogra airport on Thursday to begin a four-day visit to West Bengal, during which he is scheduled to take part in several organisational programmes of the Sangh across the state. During his stay, on Thursday, Bhagwat will attend a youth programme in Siliguri in Darjeeling district . On Friday, he is slated to address a meeting of RSS functionaries in Siliguri, where he is expected to issue guidelines to Sangh activists. He will then travel to Kolkata, where he will hold a series of organisational meetings on Saturday and Sunday. Security has been tightened for the RSS chief throughout his visit. Political observers view Bhagwats Bengal tour as significant, coming at a time when the state is gearing up for assembly elections scheduled next year. They said the visit assumes importance amid an intensifying political climate in the state. Observers also pointed out that, setting aside issues such as corruption cases including the teachers recruitment scam involving the invalidation of appointments of 26,000 teachers, the Saradha and Narada scams, alleged coal and cattle smuggling, the rape and murder of a woman doctor at R G Kar Medical College Hospital, and the recent Salt Lake Stadium vandalism the forthcoming polls could, for the first time, see a sharper focus on religious polarisation between Hindus and Muslims under the Trinamool Congress regime, which has been in power since 2011. According to RSS insiders, Bhagwat has planned visits to several major states as part of celebrations marking the organisations ongoing centenary year, holding meetings with swayamsevaks across the country. His Bengal visit, they said, also comes against the backdrop of the BJP stepping up efforts to consolidate Hindu votes in the state, while countering Trinamool Congress chief and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees alleged Muslim appeasement ahead of the Assembly elections. Sources said Bhagwat, during his engagements in Siliguri and Kolkata, is keen to gauge the mood of minority voters in both north and south Bengal districts. Political observers noted that the BJPs Bengal unit has recently softened its stance towards the Muslim community, with leaders such as Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly, attempting to reach out to Indian Muslims who respect the countrys traditional cultural heritage. The RSS-backed organisation Muslim Rashtriya Manch has also been active in this outreach, and Bhagwat has previously attended programmes organised by the platform. At 75, Bhagwat who may retire from his organisational post is said to be exploring broader support, including from sections of the Muslim community, for the BJP in the upcoming Assembly elections. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in a post on X amid Bhagwats visit, claimed that her government has undertaken unprecedented initiatives for minority development in the state. She said around 30% of the Muslim population votes for the Trinamool Congress and highlighted increased budgetary support for minority welfare. The plan budget allocation for the minorities have gone up Rs 5,602 crore in financial year 2025-26 from Rs 472 crore in 2010-11, she said on X, while extending her best wishes on Minority Rights Day.
Darjeelings Tourist Hotspot Glenarys May Shut Doors Before Christmas After Excise Restrictions
Glenarys is a heritage restaurant, bakery and bar that has been operational since the early 20th century and is widely regarded as one of Darjeelings most recognisable landmarks
Locals Pool In Money, Build A Bridge Called 'Gorkhaland' Near Darjeeling
Without government funding, residents contributed whatever amount they could to a common poll and built a bridge over Tungsung Khola, connecting Tungsung tea estate with Dhotrey valley near West Bengal's Darjeeling.
Severe cold grips north India; IMD warns of cold wave, fog across multiple states
NEW DELHI: Cold conditions prevailed across north India on Sunday, with the Amarnath yatra base camp being the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir at minus 4.3 degrees Celsius and parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan reporting minimum temperatures between three and seven degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said cold wave conditions were very likely to prevail in isolated pockets over Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha on Monday and Tuesday. In Delhi, the minimum temperature was recorded at eight degrees, up from 6.8 degrees a day ago and yet 1.6 notches below normal. The maximum temperature was 24.7 degrees Celsius, 0.1 notch below normal, while the relative humidity was 92 per cent in the morning. For Monday, the weather department forecast a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius, with mist expected. Pollution levels in Delhi remained in the very poor category on Sunday, prolonging the spell of toxic air that has hung over its residents for several weeks now. The city logged a 24-hour average AQI of 308. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 0 and 50 is classified good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor and 401 and 500 severe. Further in the north, the night temperatures in Kashmir rose by several degrees but stayed below the freezing point, officials said. The Pahalgam resort in south Kashmir, which serves as the base camp for the annual Amarnath yatra, was the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir as the minimum settled at a low of minus 4.3 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature in Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- settled at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius, a rise of 3.2 degrees compared to the previous night. The gateway town to the valley, Qazigund, recorded a low of minus one degree Celsius, while the minimum settled at minus 0.8 degree Celsius in north Kashmir's Kupwara, and 1.1 degrees Celsius in south Kashmir's Kokernag, according to officials. The meteorological department said the weather would remain generally cloudy but dry on Sunday, and a brief spell of light snowfall at isolated places in the higher reaches of north and central Kashmir is likely on December 8. In Himachal Pradesh, The IMD predicted dense fog in parts of the state until Wednesday. A yellow alert for dense fog was also issued in parts of the reservoir area of the Bhakra dam in Bilaspur district and over some parts of the Balh valley in Mandi district during early morning till Monday. In Punjab, Faridkot remained the coldest place, with the minimum temperature settling at 4.4 degrees Celsius, while in Haryana, Narnaul saw the lowest temperature at 4.6 degrees Celsius, according to the local meteorological department. Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, recorded a minimum temperature of 8.2 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, Bathinda and Gurdaspur recorded a minimum temperature of 4.6 degrees Celsius, while Ferozepur recorded 6 degrees, Amritsar 6.1 degrees, Ludhiana 6.8 degrees, and Patiala 8.9 degrees. In Haryana, Bhiwani recorded a low of six degrees, Hisar 6.2 degrees, Sirsa 6.6 degrees, Karnal seven degrees, Rohtak 7.8 degrees, and Ambala 9.8 degrees. Rajasthan, similarly, reeled under intense cold, the Meteorological Centre here said. Fatehpur in the Sikar district continued to record the lowest minimum temperature, albeit at 3.5 degrees Celsius, slightly up from 2.3 degrees a day ago. According to the weather department, Lunkaransar (Bikaner) recorded a low of 5 degrees Celsius, followed by Dausa at 6 degrees, Churu at 6.3 degrees, Vanasthali (Tonk) at 6.4 degrees and Jhunjhunu at 7.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning. The department said a fresh but weak western disturbance is likely to cause partly cloudy skies in some parts of the state over the next few days. Under its influence, the minimum temperature is expected to rise by two to three degrees Celsius, providing relief from the cold wave, it said. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, eight districts recorded minimum temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, noting a cold wave in parts of the state. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 3.5 degrees Celsius up from three degrees Celsius while Khunti logged five degrees Celsius, the IMD weather bulletin stated. The minimum temperature in Jharkhand's capital, Ranchi, was 7.5 degrees Celsius, while Daltonganj recorded 6.5 degrees and Jamshedpur recorded 9.6 degrees Celsius. Deputy Director of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, Abhishek Anand, said, North-westerly winds prevailing in the lower tropospheric levels over Jharkhand have caused the drop in mercury. Dry weather conditions are likely to prevail across the state over the next five days.The minimum temperature may rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius during the next 72 hours, he added. In West Bengal, the mercury dipped below the 10-degree mark for the first time this winter in the state's plains with Sriniketan in Birbhum districts recording a minimum temperature of 9.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, the IMD said. Its forecast for West Bengal suggested dry weather across all districts of West Bengal for the next week, with shallow to moderate fog likely in the northern districts. Darjeeling was the coldest in the hills at 6.2 degrees Celsius, while the other Himalayan tourist town of Kalimpong was warmer at 10.5 degrees Celsius. The other places which recorded low night temperatures are Alipurduar (11 degrees), Kalyani (11.4 degrees), Purulia (11.4 degrees) and Panagarh (11.9 degrees). Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 15.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, forecasting mist in the morning on Monday. IMD further predicted dense fog conditions in isolated pockets of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura between December 8 and 12. It was also very likely in parts of west Madhya Pradesh on Monday and in Odisha until Tuesday. In west India, a gradual fall by two to three degrees over the next three-four days is expected, and no significant change is anticipated thereafter, the IMD said.
India seeks bigger slice of China's expanding tea market at buyer-seller meet
India is actively promoting its tea exports to China, highlighting the growing popularity of varieties like Darjeeling and Masala tea. The nation's tea exports to China saw a significant increase from USD 20 million last year to USD 37 million in the first ten months of this year, indicating a rising demand beyond traditional green teas.
India seeks bigger slice of Chinas expanding tea market at buyer-seller meet
BEIJING, Dec 4: India has pitched for boosting its tea exports to China, where varieties such as Darjeeling and Masala tea have been gaining popularity among consumers traditionally inclined towards green tea. Leading Chinese tea houses on Wednesday took part in an Indian Tea Buyer-Seller Meet organised by the Indian Embassy here, featuring vibrant presentations on the tea cultures of both countries by Chinese professionals. Indias tea export to China, the worlds largest tea producer, stood at USD 20 million [] The post India seeks bigger slice of Chinas expanding tea market at buyer-seller meet appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Modi meets BJP MPs to firm up Bengal strategy
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asked BJP MPs from West Bengal to counter the TMC government and work towards winning the assembly elections next year. BJP MPs from the state met the PM along with Khagen Murmu, Maldah Uttar MP who was attacked by a mob in October. The PM told us to keep fighting the West Bengal government to save democracy. We will remove this government, Union minister Sukanta Majumdar said after the meeting. Darjeeling MP Raju Bista said the PM highlighted BJP workers role in public outreach. He has encouraged us to continue the positive work and to take steps towards reaching out to every individual across the state, Bista posted on X.
No dead or untraceable voters found in 2,208 polling booths in West Bengal, ECI expresses concern
KOLKATA: In a startling revelation, the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls could not find any dead, duplicate or untraceable voters in 2,208 polling booths across West Bengal. The Election Commission of India (ECI) came to know about the matter after verifying the enumeration forms that have already been digitised. In the SIR exercise, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) distribute enumeration forms among voters during their door-to-door visits and collect them once they are filled. All enumeration forms from 2,208 booths were filled up and returned, suggesting that there were no dead, duplicate or untraceable voters in these booths. Expressing serious concern over the irregularities, the ECI on Monday sought reports from district magistrates (DMs), who also function as district electoral officers (DEOs), by Tuesday. The national poll panel has decided to keep special watch in these booths in districts of South 24 Parganas, Purulia, Murshidabad, Malda, Nadia, Bankura, Howrah, East Midnapore, Birbhum, North 24 Parganas, Jalpaiguri, Hooghly, South Dinajpur, West Midnapore, North Dinajpur, East Bardhaman, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kolkata North, and West Bardhaman. The Commission sources said, South 24 Parganas district has the highest number, with 760 such booths without any dead, duplicate or untraceable voters. Purulia records the second-highest number at 228 such booths followed by Murshidabad with 226. Nearly 14 lakh SIR forms identified as 'uncollectable' so far in West Bengal The sources said that the Commission has asked DEOs to clarify whether the names of deceased voters still appear on the electoral rolls, as it is difficult to believe that not a single dead voter was reported from any of the 2,208 booths. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday asked officers, including bureaucrats and sub-divisional officers (SDO), not to panic. Dont get panicked with the exercise because I am with you. They (Commission) has appointed a retired IAS office who is disturbing you, she reportedly told senior officials during a virtual conference in connection with development works in the state. The ECI has appointed Subrata Gupta , a retired bureaucrat, as the special roll observer in Bengal to supervise the SIR process in the state. Besides Gupta, the commission has also appointed 12 other serving IAS officers of the Bengal cadre as roll observers in districts across the state. West Bengal SIR: Over 21 lakh dead voters recorded till December 1
West Bengal becomes first State in the country to rename Raj Bhavan as Lok Bhavan
KOLKATA: Implementing a Central Government notification, West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose on Saturday renamed the Raj Bhavan in Kolkata to 'Lok Bhavan'. The governor's office claimed that West Bengal is the first State in the country to change the name of the Raj Bhavan into Lok Bhavan. In a video posted by the office on X, Bose is seen replacing three letters L, O and K with R, A and J before Bhavan. The Union Home Ministry had issued a directive on the renaming of Raj Bhavan on November 25. On 27 March 2023, at the request of the Hon'ble Governor Dr C. V. Ananda Bose, the Hon'ble President Droupadi Murmu handed over the symbolic key of the then Raj Bhavan to the Hon'ble Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. It was in this historic moment that a new chapter began for Raj Bhavan Jan Raj Bhavan. , . . . , - Lok Bhavan, Kolkata, Social Media (@BengalGovernor) November 29, 2025 In pursuance of the communication from the Ministry of Home Affairs dated 25.11.2025, it is hereby notified that the name of the holdings of 'Raj Bhavan' in Kolkata, Flagstaff House and Darjeeling, has been modified and renamed as 'Lok Bhavan', a notification said. This notification comes into force with immediate effect, it also said. In a post on X, Bose said, The concept of the 'Jana Raj Bhavan' by the then Raj Bhavan, Kolkata, was prompted by the urge to make the establishment alive to the needs of the people, their aspirations, hopes, their problems and challenges. Simultaneously, the move was to shed its aura of 'awe and fear' and be open to people from all walks of life. The Raj Bhavan, now renamed as Lok Bhavan, serves as the governor's official residence and also houses his office. During the last three years, Raj Bhavan has initiated several constructive people-centric programmes. A key element of the Jana Raj Bhavan initiative was its proactive role in the service of people -- to be with them in their need. Whenever there was a situation of exigency -- be it violence, natural calamity, or even complaints of atrocities, in any corner of West Bengal, Jana Raj Bhavan reached out to people in need, he said. In tune with the transformational and inspirational leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has ensured the participation of people across all segments of society in the spectacular march towards Viksit Bharat, the Raj Bhavan and Raj Niwas across the country were uniformly decided to be renamed as Lok Bhavan and Lok Niwas respectively, as per a notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 25 November, 2025, Bose added.
EC appoints retired bureaucrat Subrata Gupta as 'Special Roll Observer' for SIR in West Bengal
KOLKATA: The Election Commission appointed retired IAS officer Subrata Gupta as the 'Special Roll Observer' for the SIR exercise in West Bengal, an official said. The EC also appointed 12 IAS officers as 'Electoral Roll Observers' to oversee the key aspects of preparation of the electoral rolls following the SIR and help the district election officers (DEOs) and electoral registration officers (EROs) in taking corrective measures, he said. Gupta, a 1990-batch IAS officer of West Bengal cadre, will be overseeing that the process of special intensive revision or SIR was carried out as per the directions of the EC, and ensure that no eligible person is left out of the electoral rolls and no ineligible elector is included in it, the official said on Friday. Meanwhile, Smita Pandey was appointed the Electoral Roll Observer for Paschim Bardhaman, Purba Bardhaman and Birbhum districts, Tanmay Chakraborty for Murshidabad and Malda, Randhir Kumar for North 24 Parganas and Kolkata Uttar, C Murugan for South 24 Parganas and Kolkata Dakshin, R Arjun for Coochbehar, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri districts, he said. Rajeev Kumar was named the Electoral Roll Observer for Howrah, Neelam Meena for Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur and Jhargram districts, Ashwini Kumar Yadav for Uttar Dinajpur and Dakshin Dinajpur, Niranjan Kumar for Darjeeling and Kalimpong, Devi Prasad Karanam for Purulia and Bankura, Rachna Bhagat for Nadia and Vishwanath for Hooghly district, he added.
Gorkha Leader Warns Of Mass Resignations Over Interlocutor Appointment
Indian Gorkha Janshakti Front chief warned of mass resignations from the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration, days after Mamata Banerjee wrote to PM Modi objecting to the Centre's appointment of an interlocutor for the Darjeeling hills.
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.
The West Bengal government, on November 4, issued a notification that Rabindranath Tagore song Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol will be sung in morning assembly in schools across the State
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
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's booth-mapping process reviewed during ECI meeting in New Delhi
Election Commission of India reviewed West Bengal's booth-mapping and Special Intensive Revision preparedness. CEOs from most states attended the New Delhi meeting. Bengal's booth mapping will continue via BLO app. Over 3.96 crore electors' names are uploaded. Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts are exceptions to completed booth mapping.
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.
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.
Mamata visits landslide-hit Mirik, says government ensuring 'round-the-clock relief ops'
DARJEELING: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday visited landslide-hit Mirik in Darjeeling district and met the affected people. A total of 32 people have been killed, including 27 in Mirik and Darjeeling alone, and thousands rendered homeless in floods and landslides in north Bengal earlier this month following heavy rain. This was Banerjee's second visit to the landslide-hit area. Banerjee met with the families of the victims and assured them of all help from the administration. She, along with senior officials of the state government, reviewed the progress of the relief work. Banerjee said her government has mobilised all resources to ensure comprehensive and round-the-clock relief operations across north Bengal. Over the past few days, I have been personally monitoring and reviewing the relief and rehabilitation efforts underway across the flood and landslide-affected areas of north Bengal following the extreme rainfall earlier this month. Day before yesterday, I visited Hasimara in Alipurduar, and yesterday, I travelled to Nagrakata, Chalsa, Mal, and Kurseong, meeting affected families, interacting with officials, and overseeing the ongoing restoration work on the ground, Banerjee posted on X earlier in the day. Today, I shall visit Mirik to personally assess the situation in the landslide-affected areas and ensure that every affected person receives the support they need. Tomorrow, I will convene an administrative meeting for Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Mirik, she added. Earlier in the day, a senior bureaucrat had told PTI that Banerjee skipped her scheduled visit to Mirik and she was likely to hold a review meeting with BDOs in Kurseong, both in Darjeeling district. Initially, the CM was scheduled to visit Mirik on Tuesday, but she will instead hold a review meeting with block development officers (BDOs) at the Jorbanglow BDO office in Kurseong. The meeting will focus on the progress of relief and recovery operations in the affected areas, the senior bureaucrat had said. The chief minister, during her recent visits, interacted with residents at relief camps and reviewed repair work of key infrastructure damaged in the disaster. During my visit to Nagrakata, I interacted with the residents at the relief camps in Bamandanga and Tandoo, ensuring that food, shelter, and medical facilities are being provided without interruption. I also reviewed the repair work of the Tanatani Bridge over the Gathia River, which was severely damaged during the flash floods, and later inspected the Kalikhola Bridge, now restored by the Public Works Department, she said. Over the past few days, I have been personally monitoring and reviewing the relief and rehabilitation efforts underway across the flood and landslide-affected areas of North Bengal following the extreme rainfall earlier this month. Day before yesterday, I had visited Hasimara in pic.twitter.com/mAx8LSdTRn Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) October 14, 2025 At the Bamandanga relief camp, Banerjee handed over appointment letters for recruitment as Home Guards to the family members of flood victims as part of the state's rehabilitation initiative. Ten beneficiaries, including eight from Jalpaiguri and two from Cooch Behar, received their letters today. I have also announced that every family whose house has been damaged in the calamity will receive financial assistance of Rs 1.2 lakh each for reconstruction under our state scheme, she said. The chief minister said her administration has set up special camps to help people recover essential documents lost during the floods, and school students who lost their books are being provided new study materials. Special camps have been set up to help citizens recover essential documents lost in the floods, while students who lost their books are being provided new study materials, she posted. Natural calamities are beyond our control, but our compassion, preparedness, and collective resolve define our response. The courage, grit, and perseverance of the people of north Bengal continue to inspire me. Our state government will remain by your side, every hour, every day, until normalcy is fully restored, Banerjee added.
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
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.
After 36 Killed in Darjeeling Landslides, Locals Lash Out at Political Apathy
Survivors allege shortage of drinking water and medicines days after the disaster struck North Bengal.
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.
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.
