Nabin to lead BJP's save democracy rally in Kolkata, civic poll strategy on agenda
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party national president Nitin Nabin will arrive in Kolkata on Monday afternoon to lead the partys Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao (save democracy, eliminate anarchy) rally, which will begin at College Street and conclude at Esplanade in central Kolkata. Following the rally, the BJP chief is expected to review the party's preparations for elections to seven urban local bodies in the state, including Kolkata. The rally is part of the BJPs nationwide campaign against the Opposition protests over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The SIR protests have been spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and supported by the Congress-led INDIA bloc and other opposition parties, according to the BJPs account of the campaign. Nabin is scheduled to arrive at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport from Patna shortly after 2 pm. He will proceed directly to College Street, the starting point of the rally, and lead the march to Esplanade. It remains unclear whether he will address party workers and supporters at the concluding gathering. Mondays programme will mark the start of an extended BJP campaign across West Bengal against the anti-SIR protests. State BJP vice-president Prabal Raha said similar rallies would be held in Howrah, adjoining Kolkata, and Siliguri in Darjeeling district on November 3. The second phase of the campaign is scheduled to begin on November 11, after Kali Puja and Diwali. The party plans to organise marches at 800 locations across the state, each with at least 10,000 participants, Raha said. The BJP also intends to bring national-level leaders and supporters from different parts of the country into the campaign in urban centres across Bengal. After the Kolkata rally, Nabin is expected to meet state BJP leaders to review preparations for elections to seven urban local bodies in West Bengal. These include the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC). A state BJP committee member said the discussions would focus on the partys strategy for the civic polls, including candidate selection. The leadership may also take up the preparation of preliminary candidate lists for the KMC and HMC elections. Nabin is expected to leave for Delhi either on Monday night or on Tuesday morning. The elections to the seven municipal bodies are likely to be held in the third or fourth week of December, according to the schedule being discussed. The results are expected in the last week of December or the first week of January 2027. The BJPs campaign is expected to run alongside its preparations for the civic elections, giving the state leadership two parallel organisational tasks in the weeks ahead.
NFR opens Rangapani-Bagdogra siding line in North Bengal for regular freight operations
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 1 (IANS) The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has commissioned the existing 6.8-km Rangapani-Bagdogra siding line under its Katihar Division for regular freight operations, paving the way for smoother goods movement and strengthening freight connectivity in the region, officials said on Sunday. Katihar Division headquarters in Katihar city in Bihar. The Rangapani-Bagdogra corridor is a vital strategic and logistical railway link located in the Siliguri region (Chicken's Neck) of Darjeeling district in North Bengal. NFRs Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said that the long-disused line has been brought into use with minimal expenditure, making productive use of existing railway infrastructure to meet growing freight transportation requirements. With this development, trains coming from East Central Railway (ECR) and entering NFR at Forbesganj will no longer require reversal at Siliguri Junction (SGUJ), he said. Eliminating this reversal will result in substantial energy savings, avoid unnecessary detention of rolling stock and reduce the deployment of crew and shunting staff for reversal operations. Sharma said that the new operational arrangement will enable NFR to receive at least 10 trains per day from ECR at Forbesganj for onward movement to destinations beyond Barsoi. This will significantly enhance freight handling capacity and operational efficiency, while facilitating faster movement and better utilisation of rolling stock, he added. The additional freight route offers greater operational flexibility and more efficient utilisation of railway resources. According to the NFR CPRO, for traders, businesses and consumers in the region, it is expected to support more reliable transportation of goods and strengthen local supply chains. The initiative also creates scope for NFR to handle additional freight traffic and generate revenue through better utilisation of an existing asset. The conversion was carried out under the guidance of NFR General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava, with coordinated efforts by Katihar Division and the other concerned departments. It reflects NFRs continued focus on improving services through teamwork and optimal utilisation of existing assets, Sharma said. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), headquartered at Maligaon near Guwahati, operates across the Northeastern states as well as in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of north Bihar.
Ambuja Neotia, IHCL to invest up to 3,000 crore in 9 hospitality projects in Bengal
Upcoming projects spread across Kolkata, Raichak, Digha, Siliguri, Lataguri, Kalimpong and Darjeeling, Ambuja Neotia Group chairman says
IHCL and Ambuja Neotia Group announce new hotels in Kolkata and Siliguri
Ambuja Neotia Group plans to invest Rs 2,700 crore in West Bengal's hospitality sector, which includes new hotel launches. The newly opened AltAir House hotels in Kolkata and Siliguri are part of this initiative. A significant expansion of Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa in Darjeeling also forms part of the investment. The collaboration aims to enhance tourism and create unique travel experiences in the region.
Bhutan glacial lake outburst triggers flash flood alerts in Bengal, Assam
Digital Desk | Thimphu, Oct 30 (IANS) A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) at Shintaphu Lake in northwestern Bhutan has triggered flash flood warnings for parts of West Bengal and Assam, with authorities monitoring vulnerable areas along rivers flowing towards the two states. The incident occurred on Thursday evening in Bhutan's Gasa district, washing away infrastructure at Gasa Tshachu, a popular natural hot spring situated near the Mo Chhu River. No casualties have been reported, as the area had been evacuated before the floodwaters arrived. Shintaphu Lake, located at the source of the Mo Chhu River, is among Bhutan's 17 glacial lakes identified as potentially dangerous. Gasa Tshachu had previously suffered extensive damage from a flash flood on August 26, 2021, when the swollen Mo Chhu changed its course towards the hot spring. According to reports, the floodwaters have crossed Srigang in Kabesa Gewog, around eight kilometres from Punakha Dzong, raising concerns about downstream areas. Bhutan has alerted the administrations of West Bengal and Assam about the potential threat to districts bordering the Himalayan kingdom. Assam's Dhubri district and West Bengal's Darjeeling hills, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri have been identified as vulnerable areas. In West Bengal, the Cooch Behar administration has also alerted residents living along the banks of the Sankosh River. The river originates in northern Bhutan and forms part of the interconnected river system that carries water from the Himalayan region towards the Brahmaputra in Assam. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious while assuring them that precautionary measures are being taken. Appealing for calm, Amit Kumar Shaw, Superintendent of Police of the Alipurduar Police District, said there was no reason for people to panic. Speaking to IANS, SP Shaw on Thursday said, People are slightly in panic, and my appeal to everyone is that there is no need to panic in any way. We are in alert mode, the administration is fully prompt, and all agencies are actively working, so there is no issue. We hope that within two to three hours, we will reach a resolution and address whatever trouble the public is facing. The flash flood has also damaged infrastructure in Bhutan. An official press release said a solar-powered irrigation lifting system installed earlier this year in the Dochhukha-Dzomlingthang-Ritsa Chiwog area under Guma Gewog in Punakha had been partially damaged by the surge in the Mo Chhu River. A local leader said the irrigation system had stopped functioning, although officials have yet to determine the full extent of the damage. Meanwhile, flood-borne debris has covered a section of the Punakha-Gasa Highway in the Dzomlingthang area, potentially affecting road connectivity. A glacial lake outburst flood occurs when water accumulated in a lake formed by glacial retreat is suddenly released, often after the failure of a natural dam. Such events can be triggered by heavy rainfall, landslides, avalanches, earthquakes or rapid melting of a glacier. Rising temperatures associated with human-induced climate change are accelerating glacier retreat and increasing concerns over the stability of glacial lakes. Sudden releases of water can generate powerful flood surges, threatening downstream communities, infrastructure and agricultural land.
A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) has been reported at Lemthang in Bhutan, triggering a high alert across North Bengal as water flows downstream towards the Sankosh River. Authorities have urged residents along the river and its tributaries to move to safer locations. Around 4,000-5,000 people have been moved to shelters, while disaster response teams remain on alert amid concerns over possible flooding in the Darjeeling hills, Terai and Dooars.
Heavy rain warning for south Bengal as cyclone Arnab disrupts air travel, several flights cancelled
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 28 (IANS) Even as Cyclone Arnab is making landfall in Andhra Pradesh, its impact on West Bengal has remained limited so far. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall in parts of south Bengal over the next two days and warned of thunderstorms across several districts. According to the weather office, heavy rain is likely on Wednesday in four south Bengal districts -- South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore and Jhargram. Light to moderate rainfall is expected in the remaining districts. Gusty winds with speeds of 30-40 km per hour may affect most south Bengal districts, including Kolkata. Thunderstorms have also been forecast across all south Bengal districts, including Kolkata, on Thursday. While weather conditions are expected to improve from Friday, a yellow alert for thunderstorms remains in place for East Burdwan, Birbhum, Murshidabad and Nadia districts. The cyclonic system has also affected flight operations at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. Three IndiGo flights arriving in the city and two departing flights were cancelled due to Cyclone Arnab. In East Midnapore district, scattered heavy rainfall was recorded on Tuesday afternoon. Strong winds have been reported from coastal areas, including Contai and Ramnagar, since Wednesday morning. The tidal surge in the Bay of Bengal has remained significantly above normal levels, prompting authorities to step up precautionary measures. Announcements are being made through public address systems in coastal areas near Tajpur and Shankarpur, while sea bathing has been prohibited as a safety measure. Meanwhile, north Bengal is also expected to witness adverse weather conditions. Heavy rainfall has been forecast in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri districts on Thursday and Friday. A yellow alert for thunderstorms has been issued for the remaining north Bengal districts. The Meteorological Department has cautioned that persistent rainfall could trigger landslides in the hill areas of north Bengal.
Delay in delimitation work may push Bengal civic polls by a month
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 28 (IANS) The polling for seven urban civic bodies in West Bengal, including the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC), is likely to be delayed by around a month due to pending delimitation-related ward-wise rearrangement of voters, sources in the West Bengal State Election Commission (WBSEC) have said. As per the initial schedule, polling for the seven civic bodies was expected to be held in the last week of November, with results slated for announcement in the first week of December. However, officials indicated that the voter rearrangement exercise linked to delimitation remains incomplete in quite a few wards. According to sources in the West Bengal State Election Commission, the ward-wise voter redistribution process is still pending in around 100 wards under the KMC area and is expected to take additional time to finish. As a result, conducting the elections before the third or fourth week of December may not be feasible. All attempts will be made to complete the process by the third week of December so that the counting process and declaration of results can be completed before the year-end. However, by any chance if the polling is conducted in the last week of December, the results will be declared before the first week of January next year, a WBSEC source said. A delay in elections to the KMC and HMC would also affect polling for five other municipalities scheduled to vote simultaneously: Haldia Municipality in East Midnapore district, Dhupguri Municipality in Jalpaiguri district, Bally Municipality in Howrah district, and Kalimpong and Kurseong municipalities in the hill districts of Kalimpong and Darjeeling. The issue was discussed at an all-party meeting convened by the WBSEC on Tuesday. Most opposition parties urged the Commission to conduct the elections using the voter lists that existed before the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, alleging that many eligible voters were excluded during the revision process. According to sources, representatives of the Mamata All India Trinamool Congress, the CPI(M)-led Left Front, and the Congress expressed concern that a large number of voters had been dropped from the electoral rolls during the revision process. The representatives from three political outfits claimed that during the SIR exercise names of many eligible voters were deleted from the voters list, with the fates of many of them hanging at the end of the Appellate Tribunals. They contended that in such a situation it would be unfair for those voters if the polling for the urban civic bodies were conducted based on the post-SIR voters list
17-yr-old Darjeeling teen falls from Dhubri building, dies
No direct impact of Cyclone 'Arnab' in Bengal, says weather office
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 25 (IANS) The Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata on Sunday said there would be no direct impact of Cyclone 'Arnab' in West Bengal. However, under its influence, scattered rain along with thunderstorms will occur from October 27 to 30. The Meteorological Office said the depression that has formed over the east-central and adjacent southeast Bay of Bengal is moving southeast at a speed of eight kilometres per hour. By 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, its position was 470 kilometres north-northwest of Srivijayapuram in Andaman, 860 kilometres east-southeast of Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, 950 kilometres east-southeast of Kakinada, 1,060 kilometres east of Machilipatnam and 1,130 kilometres east of Bapatla. On Sunday, it will gradually move southwards and turn west-north-westwards over the east-central Bay of Bengal. After that, it will move in that direction and turn into a cyclone by Monday morning. If the cyclone forms, it will be named 'Arnab' and is going to gather more strength over the sea and turn into a severe cyclone by Tuesday morning. The severe cyclone may gradually move north-westwards and take the form of a very severe cyclone. It will reach the Andhra Pradesh coast on Wednesday morning. The cyclone is going to make landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast between Vapatala and Visakhapatnam in an 'extremely severe' form by Wednesday afternoon. At that time, the storm speed will be 115 to 125 kilometres per hour, and may reach 140 kilometres per hour. Due to the influence of the low-pressure system and cyclone, strong winds will blow over the east-central and southeast Bay of Bengal. The wind speed has started increasing over the sea since Sunday. An alert has been issued on the coast of West Bengal from Tuesday, and fishermen have been asked to stay away from the sea after Tuesday. Those who are there have been asked to return by Tuesday. The wind speed will be 35 to 55 kilometres per hour from Tuesday on the coast of West Bengal. The sea will be rough due to the influence of the low-pressure system and the cyclone. Heavy rain will occur in some districts of South Bengal due to the influence of the Cyclone. Heavy rain is likely in South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore and Jhargram districts on Wednesday and Thursday. Apart from this, heavy rain is likely in Purulia and Bankura on Thursday. Scattered rain, thunderstorms and lightning are likely in Kolkata, Howrah and Hooghly on Wednesday and Thursday. It will continue in North 24 Parganas, East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Birbhum, Murshidabad and Nadia districts from Wednesday to Saturday. In North Bengal, heavy rain is likely in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts from Thursday. Scattered rain with thunderstorms and lightning will occur in the remaining North districts. There will be no major change in the temperature in West Bengal for the next three days. After that, the mercury may drop by two to three degrees. The minimum temperature in Kolkata on Sunday morning was 23.4 degrees Celsius, 0.4 degrees above normal. The maximum temperature in the city on Saturday was 31.2 degrees Celsius, 0.5 degrees below normal.
Cyclone threat looms over Bay of Bengal, heavy rain alert for south Bengal from Wednesday
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 24 (IANS) A cyclone is likely to develop over the Bay of Bengal in the coming days, raising the prospect of heavy rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds across several districts of West Bengal from Wednesday, the Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata said on Saturday. The developing system is likely to bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across large parts of south Bengal over the coming week, prompting the meteorological department to issue an advance weather warning. The meteorological office said a low-pressure area formed over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal on Friday, accompanied by a cyclonic circulation extending up to 5.8 km above mean sea level. The system is expected to intensify into a depression on Saturday and move west-northwestwards. It may further strengthen into a deep depression on Sunday, with the possibility of developing into a cyclone over the sea by Monday morning. The system is likely to gain strength over the following two days and move towards the coastal areas of north Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha. Its influence may bring thunderstorms and heavy rainfall to several parts of south Bengal from Wednesday. Kolkata is likely to experience scattered light rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds from Wednesday to Friday. Wind speeds may reach 30 to 40 kmph during this period. Similar conditions are forecast for Howrah, Hooghly, North 24 Parganas, East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Birbhum, Murshidabad and Nadia districts. Heavy rainfall is also likely in several districts of south Bengal. South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore may experience continuous heavy rain from Wednesday to Friday. Purulia and Bankura are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Thursday and Friday. Scattered rain is forecast in South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore and West Midnapore on Tuesday. There is no weather warning for the West Bengal coast until Monday. However, fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea from Tuesday, when a red warning will come into effect. Wind speeds along the coast are expected to range between 40 and 50 kmph, with gusts reaching 60 kmph. The sea is likely to remain rough. North Bengal may also witness unsettled weather later in the week. Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Thursday and Friday. Other northern districts may experience scattered rain and gusty winds reaching 30 to 40 kmph on both days. Meanwhile, Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 23.1 degrees Celsius on Saturday morning, 0.1 degrees above normal. The maximum temperature on Friday stood at 32.2 degrees Celsius, 0.5 degrees above normal.
Momos, Laphing, Fried Yam And More: This Darjeeling Market Is A Foodie's Paradise
Gorkhey Haat, also known as Gundri Bazaar in Darjeeling, showcases local products, fresh vegetables, and traditional Himalayan food every Thursday.
Bihar Vigilance raids Rural Works Department engineer in disproportionate assets case
Vigilance tightens noose around engineer accused of amassing disproportionate assets, conducted simultaneous raids at engineers four locations at Chhapra, Patna, Katihar & Darjeeling.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 14 (IANS) Jaisalmer Crafted Bar Collectibles brings together the worlds of Indian craft spirits and contemporary fashion through collaboration with designer Samant Chauhan at Lakm Fashion Week x FDCI, being held from 1318 October 2026 at Taj Palace, New Delhi. The showcase will feature a Crafted Bar and a series of special collectibles celebrating the intersection of Indian craftsmanship and modern design. At the heart of the collaboration is a shared belief that craft is more than a technique: it carries the memory of a place, the skill of its makers, and the possibility of reinvention. While Samant is known for his extensive work with Bhagalpurs silk-weaving traditions and giving them a timeless yet modern form and silhouette, Jaisalmer Crafted Bar Collectibles are rooted in a story that begins with botanicals drawn from across India and a gin-making process shaped by traditional distillation. Together, the two offer a meeting point between the botanical and the textile, the bar and the runway. Chauhan is known for his sustained engagement with Bhagalpur silk and the weaving communities behind it. Since establishing his label in 2006, he has explored new possibilities for the regions handloom tradition, translating its textures and craft into modern silhouettes. The collaboration with Jaisalmer Crafted Bar Collectibles extends this conversation beyond apparel, using collectibles and a Crafted Bar experience to explore how Indias craft traditions can find fresh expression in the rituals and objects of contemporary luxury. The association also reflects Jaisalmer Crafted Bar Collectibles' own craft-led identity. The spirit is made from a blend of 11 botanicals, seven of which are sourced from across India, including Darjeeling green tea, lemongrass and cubeb pepper. It is crafted from triple-distilled neutral grain spirit and re-distilled in traditional copper pot stills. Available in around 40 countries, Jaisalmer Crafted Bar Collectibles brings regional Indian ingredients and a contemporary approach to gin-making to an international audience. Kunal Madan, Chief Marketing Officer, Radico Khaitan, said, At Jaisalmer, we see Indian craftsmanship as a source of inspiration for creating contemporary luxury experiences. Our collaboration with Samant Chauhan brings together two worlds that share a deep appreciation for detail, provenance and the stories behind what we create. Through initiatives like this, we are exploring how Jaisalmer Crafted Bar Collectibles can connect with consumers beyond the product itself, building meaningful associations with Indias rich cultural and creative landscape. Samant Chauhan said, Bhagalpur silk represents a living tradition, sustained by the knowledge and skill of its weaving communities. For me, the opportunity has always been to take this heritage forward without losing sight of its origins. The collaboration with Jaisalmer Crafted Bar Collectibles is an interesting coming together of craft and contemporary design, creating a new context in which Indian craftsmanship can be experienced and appreciated. At Lakm Fashion Week x FDCI, the Jaisalmer Crafted Bar Collectibles will offer guests a curated cocktail experience, while the special collectibles will bring the collaborations design language to life. The partnership places Indian craft at the centre of a wider conversation on luxury today, one shaped not only by the finished product, but also by provenance, process, material and the people who keep traditional skills alive.
Bengal CM to attend GJM's foundation day event in Darjeeling tomorrow
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 6 (IANS) Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari is likely to attend the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha's (GJM) foundation day programme in the North Bengal hills on Wednesday. If all goes well, he will be the main speaker at the GJM's big rally in Darjeeling, said a state government official on Tuesday. According to the official, preparations for the Chief Minister's visit to Darjeeling have also started. It may be noted that GJM president Bimal Gurung and general secretary Roshan Giri met the Chief Minister in Kolkata last September. The political situation in the hills was discussed in the meeting held at the ground tent of the Public Works Department. At that time, Gurung and Giri invited the Chief Minister as the chief guest at the morcha's foundation day function. Government sources said that after accepting the invitation, the Chief Minister told them that the situation is different if the party's central leadership calls him to Delhi for some urgent work. Otherwise, he will definitely attend the event in Darjeeling. According to the sources, the Chief Minister's presence at Wednesday's event is almost certain, keeping with that promise. It is believed that the Chief Minister's speech on the political future and development of the hills, as well as the GJM leadership at the event, may become important. Gurung-led Gorkha Janmukti Morcha is currently an alliance partner in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the Centre. In this year's Assembly elections, GJM supported BJP candidates in several seats where it has influence in the North Bengal hills and plains. Its influence was also evident in the election results. BJP won several seats in North Bengal by a large margin. The lotus has bloomed in all three Assembly seats in the hills - Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kurseong. Due to this political equation, the Chief Minister's participation in the GJMs foundation day event is considered significant in political circles. As a result, the Chief Minister's visit is also being seen as a message of the state government's new political equation with the hills. The Chief Minister is scheduled to return to Kolkata on Wednesday after attending the event in Darjeeling. Before the visit, the state's Transport Minister Arjun Singh went there to inspect the situation in the hills. Arjun Singh was also present at the GJM leadership meeting with the Chief Minister in Kolkata in September.
Sikkim to get first train link by 2027; Rlys fast-tracks Rs 9,000 crore Gangtok line
The 44.5-km Sivok-Rangpo railway line is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 17,124 crore and will provide Sikkim with its first direct railway connection. The Rangpo-Gangtok line would serve as an extension of the railway network once the ongoing Sivok-Rangpo project, connecting Sivok in Darjeeling with Rangpo in East Sikkim, is completed.
One killed after car plunges into 200-ft gorge in Bengal's Kurseong
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 5 (IANS) At least one person was killed and five others were injured after a car plunged into a ditch about 200 feet below in the hills in north Bengal's Kurseong, the police said on Monday. The accident took place on Sunday night on the Kargil Dhara road in Kurseong. It is learnt that six friends were going from Kurseong to Siliguri in a four-wheeler on Sunday. Around 9 p.m. to 9:30 pm, due to heavy rain in the Kargil Dhara area, which is 10 km above Rohini in Kurseong, the car lost control and fell into a ditch about 200 feet below. Following the accident, locals quickly started the rescue work. After receiving information about the incident, the disaster management group of the state and a police team reached the spot. They were rescued and taken to the hospital. One of the six friends was declared dead by the doctor. The rest are undergoing treatment at the hospital. According to the police, all six are residents of Siliguri. On Sunday night, the car lost control in Kargildara and fell into a ditch about two hundred feet below. The locals somehow rescued two of them. However, rain on one side and darkness on the other hindered the rescue work. Three of them were still trapped in the car, said an officer of the Darjeeling District Police. Later, the police and the disaster management team rescued the remaining three people who were trapped in the car. Out of the five injured, two are undergoing treatment at the primary hospital in Kurseong. The remaining three have been shifted to a hospital in Siliguri. The body of the deceased has been sent for autopsy. It may be noted that the hills in north Bengal have been witnessing a prolonged spell of rain in the last few days due to the withdrawal of monsoon from the state. As a result, drivers have been advised to exercise caution while going up and down hills, especially during the rainy season and at night.
Bengal: Villagers lynch two on suspicion of cattle theft, 3 injured
West Bengal: Two Muslim men were killed and three others injured after a mob allegedly attacked five people on suspicion of cattle theft in West Bengals Darjeeling district early Saturday, October 3, police said. The deceased were identified as Shahid Akhtar, a resident of Sonapur in North Dinajpurs Chopra, and Sajjad Mohammad, a resident of 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 .
Northeast Frontier Railway recreates Sukna station to preserve Darjeeling Toy Train heritage
The News Mill
Darjeeling 'Toy Train' chugs into top 50 global destinations in 2027
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) has been named among Lonely Planets 50 Best in Travel 2027 destinations, with Darjeeling recognised as a top destination for a toy-train journey.
Security deployment for Bengal urban polls to depend on district law & order assessment
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 26 (IANS) West Bengal State Election Commission (WBSEC) will take a final call on security deployment for the forthcoming elections to seven urban civic bodies in the state only after receiving detailed law and order assessments from the respective district magistrates, sources in the Commission said on Saturday. According to WBSEC sources, the reports submitted by district magistrates will play a key role in determining whether deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) is necessary for the elections, which will cover two municipal corporations and five municipalities slated to go to polls later this year. Based on the law & order reports from the district magistrates, the Commission will decide whether CAPF deployment would be required at all for the polls and accordingly send security-related guidelines to the district administrative authorities concerned, said a WBSEC source. However, officials indicated that given the limited scale of the exercise, covering only seven urban civic bodies, the elections are likely to be conducted primarily with state police deployment. They expressed confidence that the polling process could be managed smoothly and peacefully without additional central forces. The official added that the situation could change if any political party approaches the Calcutta High Court seeking CAPF deployment and the court issues specific directions in that regard. In that case, the Commission will have to comply with the courts order, the source said. The two municipal corporations scheduled to go to polls are Kolkata Municipal Corporation and Howrah Municipal Corporation. Elections will also be held in Haldia Municipality (East Midnapore), Bally Municipality (Howrah), Dhupguri Municipality (Jalpaiguri), Kalimpong Municipality (Kalimpong) and Kurseong Municipality (Darjeeling). Voting is expected to take place at 6,301 polling booths across these seven civic bodies. As per the Commissions tentative schedule, notifications for the elections are likely to be issued on October 27 or 28, shortly after Durga Puja. Polling may be held on November 28 or 29, once the festive season concludes, while counting of votes and declaration of results are tentatively scheduled for December 2.
Deep depression weakens, brings relief from heavy rain in south Bengal
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 26 (IANS) The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) at Alipore in Kolkata on Saturday said there is no warning of heavy rainfall for south Bengal districts, including Kolkata, from Sunday onwards, as the deep depression affecting the region is expected to weaken into a low-pressure area by Saturday evening. According to the Met Office, rainfall activity is likely to ease from Saturday evening, with no prospects of moderate to heavy rain across south Bengal over the next few days. The deep depression over south Odisha and Chhattisgarh has moved further northwestward and is gradually losing strength, leading to a reduction in rainfall intensity across both south and north Bengal. A Met department official said rainfall in Kolkata and adjoining areas is expected to decrease significantly from noon on Saturday. While isolated light showers may occur at one or two places, no weather warning has been issued for any district in south Bengal. However, sea conditions remain rough due to the lingering impact of the weather system. Gusty winds of 35-45 kmph, occasionally reaching 55 kmph, are continuing along the coast. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until Saturday afternoon. South Bengal, including Kolkata, has been experiencing intermittent spells of heavy rain since Wednesday night under the influence of the deep depression. The city and its suburbs also witnessed heavy showers on Saturday morning. In north Bengal, heavy rainfall may continue in Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong districts on Saturday. Thunderstorm and rainfall warnings are also in place for Alipurduar, Cooch Behar and North Dinajpur. However, no weather warnings have been issued for any district in north Bengal from Sunday onwards. Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 25.6 degrees Celsius on Saturday, 0.4 degrees below normal, while the maximum temperature on Friday stood at 30.6 degrees Celsius, 1.9 degrees below normal.
West Bengal rain alert: Darjeeling landslide, heavy rain forecast till Saturday
Heavy rains have caused significant landslides in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. A landslide affected Takdah Rural Hospital, resulting in minor injuries to one individual. The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for continued heavy rainfall through Saturday. Rainfall data indicates that Darjeeling recorded the highest amounts in the state recently. Similar weather patterns are expected to persist in surrounding districts until the weekend.
Heavy rain likely in south Bengal from Tuesday to Friday, says Met Department
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 21 (IANS) There is a possibility of heavy rainfall in various parts of West Bengal from Tuesday to Friday due to the influence of a low-pressure area formed in the Bay of Bengal, the India Meteorological Department said on Monday. According to a Met Department official, a cyclone strengthened in the north Andaman Sea and turned into a clear depression on Sunday. Its direction is west and northwest. It is likely to turn into a deep depression in the east-central Bay of Bengal on Monday. As a result, there is a possibility of scattered rain and thundershowers in south Bengal, and the possibility of rain will increase from Tuesday, the official said. There is a possibility of heavy rain in most districts of south Bengal from Wednesday to Friday. On the other hand, there is no possibility of heavy rain in north Bengal for now. The possibility of rain will be low until Wednesday. However, heavy rain is predicted again in the northern districts, i.e. Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar on Thursday. Fishermen have been prohibited from going deep into the central and north Bay of Bengal on Monday. There is a ban on going into the central and north Bay of Bengal from Tuesday to Friday, while fishermen have been banned from going to sea off the coast of Bangladesh, Odisha and West Bengal from Wednesday to Friday. According to the forecast, rain will increase in the districts of south Bengal from Tuesday. Thunderstorms with lightning will occur in all districts, along with rain accompanied by gusty winds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour. Yellow alert for heavy rain will be in place in East Midnapore, and some parts of North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas districts. Yellow alert for heavy rain will be in place in South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore and Jhargram districts on Wednesday. Gusty winds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour are likely to occur in coastal districts, i.e., South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore. Light to moderate rains with gusty winds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour are expected in some parts of all the remaining districts. The rainfall will increase slightly on Thursday. A Yellow alert for heavy rain will be in place in South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Birbhum and Murshidabad districts today. A Yellow alert for heavy rain will be in place in seven districts - North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, Birbhum, Murshidabad, Nadia, and East Burdwan - on Friday. Gusty winds of 40 to 50 kmph are likely in coastal parts of North and South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore. Light to moderate rain with gusty winds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour is expected in some parts of all the remaining districts. Rain will increase in north Bengal from Wednesday. Light to moderate rain with thunderstorms is likely in all districts today. There is a Yellow alert for heavy rain in Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts on Thursday. A Yellow alert will be in effect in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri and North Dinajpur districts on Friday as well. There are fewer chances of rain in Kolkata on Monday, while the chances will increase from Tuesday. There will be a higher chance from Wednesday to Friday. On Sunday, the maximum temperature in Kolkata and its surrounding areas was 29.02 degrees Celsius, which is 3.06 degrees Celsius below normal. The minimum temperature was 24.06 degrees Celsius, which is 1.07 degrees below normal. The relative humidity was at a maximum of 98 and a minimum of 79 per cent.
Honeymoon horror: Woman suffers 60% burns at homestay
Four individuals, including the homestay owner, have been arrested in Darjeeling after a young woman tourist sustained severe burn injuries during a barbecue session. The incident, which occurred due to a liquid being poured onto the grill, has led to allegations of negligence and inadequate safety measures by the victim's family.
Bengal Minister orders special audit for GTA, hill panchayats
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 19 (IANS) The West Bengal Minister in charge of Panchayat Affairs & Rural Development, Dilip Ghosh, on Saturday announced a special audit to identify corrupt activities in the functioning of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) and panchayats in the hills of North Bengal. Ghosh, also the former national vice president and state president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal, warned that the new BJP-ruled government will adopt a zero-tolerance approach against corruption in administrative functioning. He chaired an administrative review meeting at the North Bengal Branch Secretariat Uttarkanya in Siliguri, Darjeeling district, to assess rural development progress in the hills, Terai, and Dooars regions. He sent a strong message to curb corruption in GTA and panchayat bodies. No corruption in public service activities will be tolerated. Special audits will be conducted in at least 10 per cent of the panchayats, including GTA areas in the hills, where serious charges of corruption exist. Work is underway to fill infrastructure gaps in coordination with the new GTA chief and administrative officials. Initiatives are being taken to quickly recruit people to fill around 11,000 vacancies in the state Panchayat & Rural Development Department to keep services running, Ghosh said. He added that people in West Bengal had brought change in the regime for the sake of development. They are satisfied with the functioning of the new government. This satisfaction will be reflected in the results of the bypolls for two Assembly constituencies in West Bengal next month. BJP candidates will win by heavy margins from both constituencies, Ghosh asserted.
Woman suffers 60% burns after barbecue fire at Darjeeling homestay
No one has been arrested in connection with the incident so far, which took place on September 17 night
A honeymoon trip to the hills took a tragic turn for a newly married couple from Uttar Dinajpur after the bride suffered severe burns during a bonfire at a homestay in Sittong, Darjeeling. The incident took place on September 13, when the couple were spending the evening at the property they had booked online.
South Bengal to get relief from heat as thunderstorms, rain forecast for five days
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 17 (IANS) After days of sweltering heat, weather conditions in south Bengal are likely to change as the Met office on Thursday forecast thunderstorms accompanied by light to moderate rain over the next few days. Rain is likely at one or two places in almost all districts of south Bengal. Gusty winds reaching 30 to 40 km per hour are also expected. Kolkata, too, is likely to receive rain and thundershowers. According to a Met department official, the monsoon axis extends from a low-pressure area over Rajasthan to the northwest Bay of Bengal through Ranchi and Digha. In addition, a cyclonic circulation is currently present over the northwest Bay of Bengal. The system is expected to gradually strengthen and influence the West Bengal and Odisha coasts. As a result, south Bengal is likely to witness another spell of heavy rain from Thursday, which may continue for the next five days. A yellow warning for rain and thunderstorms has been issued for eight districts, including coastal and western areas. Thunderstorms are likely in Bankura, Purulia, Jhargram, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Howrah, North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas. However, the intensity of rainfall is expected to decrease from Monday. Meanwhile, rainfall is likely to increase in north Bengal on Thursday. A yellow warning for heavy rain has been issued for Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts. Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds of 30 to 40 km per hour is likely across the region. Rainfall activity in north Bengal is expected to decrease from Friday. Kolkata is likely to see cloudy skies from Thursday afternoon, with the possibility of rain increasing during the day. Light to moderate rain with thundershowers is expected to continue until Saturday. Gusty winds reaching 30 to 40km per hour are also likely. On Wednesday, Kolkata and adjoining areas recorded a maximum temperature of 34.08 degrees Celsius, two degrees above normal. The minimum temperature was 27.06 degrees Celsius, 1.02 degrees above normal. Relative humidity ranged between 52 and 97 percent.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 17 (IANS) Makhanlal Sarkar, one of the most senior and early workers of the BJP in West Bengal, on Thursday extended birthday greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and praised him for overcoming challenges on both the international and domestic fronts while continuing to move forward. Speaking to IANS, Sarkar conveyed birthday greetings to the Prime Minister and also hailed the work he has undertaken during his long political career. There will certainly be greetings, especially for the work he has been doing. I sincerely extend my greetings to him for the way he has overcome one challenge after another, whether in the international arena or in dealing with internal challenges, and has continued to move forward, Sarkar said. Reflecting on Prime Minister Modis political journey, Sarkar noted his long tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister as well as his years as Prime Minister. He also referred to the possibility of Modi contesting the 2029 elections. PM Modis political career has been very long. He was the Chief Minister of Gujarat for 13 years. As Prime Minister, he is completing 12 years. I do not know whether he will contest the elections in 2029. If he does, it will be beneficial for India, he said. Sarkar also recalled the message he had earlier conveyed to Prime Minister Modi regarding the development of West Bengal and the six demands for Sonar Bangla that had been raised by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. The message I had given to Modi ji was about the six demands for Sonar Bangla that Suvendu Adhikari had spoken about. If Modi ji takes responsibility for the industrial development of Bengal, he will fulfil the dream of Sonar Bangla within three years. Through this message of greetings, I am once again reminding him of that, Sarkar said. I hope to fulfil the dream of Syama Prasad Mookerjee. That will be my appeal. I wish him a long life. May he remain healthy and continue to work for the country. These are my greetings to him, he added. At the age of 98, Sarkar continues to be remembered as one of the early grassroots figures associated with the nationalist movement in post-Independence India and the growth of the BJPs organisational base in West Bengal. Earlier in May, during the swearing-in ceremony of Suvendu Adhikari as the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Prime Minister Modi had met Sarkar. He greeted Makhanlal Sarkar, presented him with a shawl and took his blessings. Following the meeting, PM Modi shared photographs with the veteran BJP worker and described him as a motivating figure, saying that Sarkar continued to inspire people from different walks of life to join the party. He had said, Today, as the first-ever BJP Government takes oath in West Bengal, it is natural for all of us to remember Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee and his everlasting contribution to the nation and West Bengal in particular. No stone will be left unturned to fulfil his vision. During the swearing-in ceremony in Kolkata, I had the opportunity to meet Shri Makhanlal Sarkar Ji. A devout nationalist, he worked with Dr Mookerjee and was even arrested in Jammu and Kashmir while accompanying him. He dedicated his life to our party, expanding its base across West Bengal, inspiring people from all walks of life to join the party. We, in the BJP, are proud that we have such motivating figures who have worked among the people and strengthened our party, he had said. In 1952, Sarkar was arrested in Kashmir while accompanying Syama Prasad Mookerjee during the movement to hoist the Indian Tricolour there. After the formation of the BJP in 1980, he became the organisational coordinator for West Dinajpur, Jalpaiguri, and Darjeeling districts. Within just one year, he helped enrol nearly 10,000 members. From 1981 onward, he served continuously for seven years as district president, an exceptional achievement at a time when BJP leaders generally could not remain in the same organisational position for more than two years.
West Bengal Government Plans Rs 3,000 Crore Ropeway Between Kurseong And Darjeeling: Report
Narcotics, firearm seized by SSB close to India-Nepal border; five apprehended
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 12 (IANS) A significant quantity of narcotics and an illegal firearm were seized by troops of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) close to the India-Nepal border over the last two days, officials said on Saturday. Five persons have been apprehended in this connection. In the latest case, personnel of the 41 Bn SSB Ranidanga and the Anti-Narcotics Task Force of the Bihar Police carried out an intelligence-based operation in the Lakdi Depot area in Galgalia, Kishanganj, Bihar, around 7.10 a.m. on Saturday. The security personnel carried out a raid at the house of one Mohamad Hasim (57) and seized 507 grams of Brown Sugar, 814 grams of amphetamine, a country-made pistol, one round of live ammunition and a mobile phone. The house is barely 550 metres from the international border, officials said. The seized items were checked with a drug detection kit and tested positive for MDMA (Amphetamine) and Brown Sugar. Hasim and Ruksar Khatun (30) were taken into custody. The latter is from the Channu Tola village in Bhatgaon, Kishanganj. During preliminary interrogation, the apprehended persons disclosed that the Brown Sugar and Amphetamine were procured from an unidentified person at Galgalia Bazar. They, along with the seized items, were handed over to the Galgalia Police Station for further legal action, an official said. In another raid carried out during the evening of Friday, 410 grams of Brown Sugar were seized. Around 6.20 p.m., acting on reliable information, a special patrolling party of the Kadomanijote Company of the 41 Bn SSB, Ranidanga, proceeded towards Aambari Village in Ghoshpukur on National Highway 327C. Three suspects were searched, and the narcotics were seized from their possession, the official said. A drug detection kit declared the powdery substance to be Brown Sugar after a sniffer dog confirmed it to be drugs. The three persons apprehended in this connection have been identified as Akram Hossain (43), from Khagen Hat in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, Tapan Das (34), from Dakshin Palash, Matigara, Darjeeling, West Bengal, and Ebrahim Hoque (33), of Bhorkulagachh, Chopra, Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal. During preliminary interrogation, the apprehended persons disclosed that the Brown Sugar was procured from an unidentified person at a shoe shop in Panjipara and was being taken to Ghoshpukur for delivery to a woman known only as Didi. They, along with the narcotics, have been handed over to the Phansidewa Police Station, the official added.
US Ambassador Sergio Gor Visits Darjeeling, Celebrating India-US Friendship
US Ambassador Sergio Gors visit to Darjeeling highlights the warmth of India-US relations, as he shares memorable moments with Harsh Shringla. US Ambassador Sergio Gor Visits Darjeeling, Celebrating India-US Friendship
More rain likely in south Bengal, says weather department
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 10 (IANS) The Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata on Thursday said there was a possibility of a new low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal, which is likely to bring light to moderate rain in south Bengal districts in the next three days. According to a Met Department official, heavy rain may occur in some western districts and coastal areas of South 24 Parganas district. There is also a possibility of scattered heavy rain in the districts of south Bengal along with thunderstorms. Besides, there is a slight chance of scattered rain with thunderstorms in north Bengal. Heavy rain will again occur in north Bengal from Friday. Today, there is a possibility of heavy rain in East Midnapore, West Midnapore and South 24 Parganas districts. There will be a yellow warning for heavy rain in these three districts. Scattered thunderstorms may occur in all the remaining districts. Along with this, gusty winds may blow at a speed of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour. There is no such warning of heavy rain elsewhere, said the official. On Friday, there will be a yellow warning of heavy rain in Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong districts. On Saturday, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar and Jalpaiguri; all the above five districts will remain under a yellow warning of heavy rain, the Met Department official said. On Sunday, a yellow warning of heavy rain has been issued in Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts. The rain will decrease again in North Bengal from Monday. Meanwhile, there is a possibility of light to moderate rain with thunderstorms in Kolkata, accompanied by gusty winds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour. If there is no rainfall, humidity-related discomfort may prevail. The rain will decrease from Sunday, while humidity-related discomfort and temperature will increase slightly. On Wednesday, the maximum temperature in Kolkata and its surrounding areas was 32.02 degrees Celsius, which is 0.03 degrees below normal. The minimum temperature was 25.09 degrees Celsius, which is 0.05 degrees below normal. The relative humidity was a maximum of 95 and a minimum of 68 per cent.
Brazil legend Cafu to visit Darjeeling, launch futsal teams this weekend
Brazil legend Cafu to visit Darjeeling launch futsal teams this weekend
Locoshed of Darjeeling's iconic toy train collapses amid heavy rain, 4 injured
Locoshed of Darjeelings iconic toy train collapses amid heavy rain injured
Eight Injured As Darjeeling Railway Locoshed Collapses
Torrential Rain And Gusty Winds Cause Partial Collapse In Darjeeling
Makaibari to tie up with small tea growers in Darjeeling
The group set a goal to purchase 25% of its requirement from the small growers and blend them with its own production. These small growers are supposed to get the equal proportion from the total profit while the Luxmi Group is confident to achieve a 20% boost annually with this new intiative
Luxmi Group to launch Makaibari Collective with Darjeeling small tea growers
The initiative will combine tea from Makaibari and independent growers, while helping farmers receive better prices and a share of profits
Makaibari unveils Collective model for Darjeeling's small tea growers
The Makaibari Collective will source organically grown tea from small farmer cooperatives, with profits shared among growers in proportion to the quantity supplied
Low-pressure area to bring heavy rain in Bengal till Sep 4: IMD
Very heavy rainfall is also likely in Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri districts till Tuesday morning due to the weather system
Indian Tea Association issues white paper on Darjeeling & Dooars Tea Industry seeks revival packages
The white paper on Darjeeling highlights the sharp decline in productionfrom 14.49 million kg in 1990 to 5.6 million kg in 2025 while the paper on Dooars & Terai Tea Industry points out at a market asymmetry between small tea growers and organised tea estates
Darjeeling tea industry seeks Rs 113 crore aid from govt as output hits 35-year low
Darjeeling tea industry seeks Rs crore aid from govt as output hits year low
ITA seeks West Bengal tea policy push for Darjeeling, Dooars-Terai
White papers seek financial support, tea-area rejuvenation, factory modernisation and trade reforms to revive production, protect livelihoods and attract investment in North Bengal
Tea industry seeks Rs 113 crore annual package to revive Darjeeling sector
The Indian Tea Association seeks government aid for tea industry revival. Financial and regulatory reforms are proposed for Darjeeling and Dooars regions. The association requests support for production and modernization efforts. Measures aim to protect employment and rural livelihoods across North Bengal. Time-bound implementation of policies is crucial for sector sustainability.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway adds Durga Puja joyrides from October 1
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway adds Durga Puja joyrides from October
Raksha Bandhan 2026 falls on a Friday: 6 best places to celebrate Rakhi with siblings this year
Raksha Bandhan 2026 falls on a Friday, giving siblings across India a rare three-day window to travel together. From Udaipur's monsoon lakes and Coorg's coffee estates to Rishikesh's river and Darjeeling's peaks, these six destinations offer something different for every kind of brother and sister duo.
Centres committee on permanent political solution for Gorkha issue | Explained
The people of Darjeeling hills have been demanding a separate State of Gorkhaland, to be carved out territories of Darjeeling hills and parts of Terai and Dooars for the past several decades.
Bengal CM Adhikari to attend GJM
Kolkata, Aug 23 (IANS) Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will attend the foundation day ceremony of Bimal Gurung-founded Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), which has long been spearheading the movement for a permanent political solution for the hills scattered over Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kurseong in the northern sector of West Bengal. Announcing this on Sunday, Gurung, the []
Hotel Owner Arrested In Kolkata Fire That Killed 9, Including 7 Bangladeshis
Of the nine persons killed in the hotel fire, seven were Bangladeshi residents, one was from Jharkhand and one from Siliguri in Darjeeling district of West Bengal.
Shah Forms Panel To Draft Gorkha Accord
Mr Shah also entrusted Pankaj Kumar Singh, a retired IPS officer appointed by his ministry as Darjeeling interlocutor, to lead the panel on the issue.
Govt forms panel for 'permanent solution' to Gorkha issue
The Centre has established a committee to draft an agreement and finalise modalities for a 'permanent political solution' to the Gorkha identity issue in the Darjeeling hills and adjoining areas, following a tripartite meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gorkha leaders, and the West Bengal government.
Centre forms panel to finalise 'permanent political solution' for Gorkhas
The Centre on Saturday constituted a committee to draft an agreement and finalise modalities for a permanent political solution to the Gorkha identity issue in the Darjeeling hills and its adjacent areas, officials said after a key tripartite meeting between Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gorkha leaders and the West Bengal government. The meeting aimed to find a roadmap for the BJP-promised permanent political solution to the long-standing issues and demands of the hill people and their recognition under the ambit of the Constitution. All issues relating to the hill population of West Bengal were discussed in detail. Their demands pertaining to a distinct identity, a permanent political solution and recognition under the Constitution of India were taken up. The Union home minister promised a permanent political solution soon under the umbrella of the Constitution, a statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said. To finalise modalities, it was decided to form a .
Amit Shah Vows Permanent Political Settlement For Bengal's Darjeeling Hills
Issues related to the problems of the hill community, their demand for a distinct identity, constitutional status and political solution were discussed in detail during the meeting.
Amit Shah to Hold Meeting on Border Security, Darjeeling Issues
Sources said Shah will review border security, with a focus on coordination among the BSF, SSB, intelligence agencies and the state administration
Kolkata Fire Tragedy Claims Nine Lives, Including Seven Bangladeshis
Kolkata, August 20: The Kolkata police have identified the nine victims who lost their lives in a hotel fire on Mirza Ghalib Lane in central Kolkata on Thursday. Among the deceased, seven are Bangladeshi nationals, while two are Indian citizensone from Giridih district in Jharkhand and the other from Darjeeling district in North Bengal. The ... Read more Kolkata Fire Tragedy Claims Nine Lives, Including Seven Bangladeshis
Low-pressure system moves towards Jharkhand, western districts of Bengal to get heavy rain
The IMD said the sub-Himalayan districts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri will receive heavy rainfall until the morning of August 21
The India Meteorological Department issued a fresh weather alert for the nation. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in eleven states including Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Coastal districts of West Bengal will receive heavy showers until June twenty-fourth. Northern districts of West Bengal could experience heavy downpour from July twenty-sixth to twenty-ninth. Light to moderate rain is forecast for sub-Himalayan districts over the next few days.
Darjeeling toy train accident goes viral after taxi driver claims train was on 'wrong side'
A taxi driver argued with a toy train pilot after a minor collision occurred. The driver claimed the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was on the wrong side of the tracks. Authorities found the vehicle was parked illegally and negligently near the railway line. The taxi was seized and a case was registered against the driver. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway continues to celebrate its heritage and tourism growth.
7 places in India that feel like Europe during monsoon
India has places that look and feel startlingly European when the monsoon arrives. From Coorg's misty coffee estates to Darjeeling's fog-drenched colonial streets and Spiti's cliff monasteries, these seven destinations offer rolling green hills, cool air and dramatic skies. No passport, no long flight, and no currency exchange needed.
