Week After Kolkata Stampede Horror, A Quiet Immersion For Chorbagan Durga Idol
On Saturday, around 30 men brought out the idol that had drawn large crowds to one of the most artistic Durga Puja pandals this year in Kolkata. The pandal remains sealed for investigation.
KMC wraps up immersions as puja organisers send off over 4,000 idols
Cyclone Arnab to trigger rain in city, south Bengal from Tuesday
Kolkata sees surge in hand, foot and mouth disease in children
Watchtowers, wide lanes to manage book fair crowd
Three weeks after release, Buxa tigress ventures towards Assam
Salt Lake eateries shut after food safety raid
Track block may hit rail ops today
Christian families in West Bengal get police protection after alleged attacks to renounce religion
An FIR was registered at the Chandrakona police station based on a complainant which accused 13 persons connected with the Bajrang Dal of attacking Christian families and pressured them to return to Hinduism
Naseeruddin Shah criticises SRFTI administration as fresh graffiti appear on campus walls
NCC felicitates cadets who aided Chorbagan stampede rescue
In sombre farewell, Chorbagan bids adieu to idol after stampede tragedy
Cops seek voice samples of 2 announcers, move HC for nod
Chorbagan tragedy a lesson to make future pujas safer: CM
Bharnobari tea garden lockout leaves 1,800 jobless
BJP to give its old guard spl attention in civic body polls
Abhaya forum seeks fresh RG Kar inquiry
BJP Rules Out Alliance With Trinamool Rebels For Kolkata Civic Polls
BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya was emphatic in stating that the party's doors for NCPI-backed candidates are closed.
Bomb threat on Phuket-Kolkata flight leaves 188 passengers stranded on tarmac for 2 hours
Rs 1,200cr for Sundarbans, Muriganga bridge by 2029: CM at Kakdwip
BJP Set to Win Kolkata Municipal Elections, Claims Minister Dilip Ghosh
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh predicts a decisive BJP victory in upcoming municipal elections, echoing earlier assembly results. BJP Set to Win Kolkata Municipal Elections, Claims Minister Dilip Ghosh
Kolkata airport gets second bomb scare in two days, threat found on Phuket flight
A bomb threat message was discovered in the toilet of a flight, leading to security concerns. Authorities quickly isolated the aircraft and evacuated passengers to ensure their safety. Personnel from the bomb squad and security forces thoroughly searched the plane but found no suspicious objects. This incident followed a similar threat found in a women's washroom the previous day.
Naseeruddin Shah backs Kolkata film institute students, accuses BJP of vendetta
Naseeruddin Shah backs Kolkata film institute students, accuses BJP of vendetta
Naseeruddin, Payal Kapadia stand in solidarity with SRFTI students
Kolkata: Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah and filmmaker Payal Kapadia have expressed solidarity with agitating Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRFTI) students, who have been protesting against attacks allegedly by RSS-linked organisations on the film institutes campus. In a video clip posted on social media, Shah launched a scathing attack on the ruling BJP in 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 .
Attack on Bengali Christians: Arrest the accused, Congress to Shah
Kolkata: Congress MP KC Venugopal on Saturday, October 24, wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah urging him to immediately arrest those accused of assaulting three Christian families and allegedly forcing them to renounce their faith in West Bengals Paschim Medinipur district. Venugopal, who is also the chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PC), described 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 .
'Written in lipstick', message aboard a Phuket-Kolkata flight sparks bomb scare at Kolkata airport
A day after, there is yet another incident of bomb scare at the Kolkata airport, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport. A message reading Bomb inside aircraft was found written on the mirror of a...
Kolkata police seek voice samples in stampede probe
Kolkata Police are seeking court permission to collect voice samples from two arrested individuals in connection with the Chorbagan Durga Puja stampede. This is to match their voices with loudspeaker announcements that allegedly caused panic, leading to the death of 19 people on October 17. The investigation involves examining audio/video footage and statements from 60 people, while the puja pandal is being preserved for further inquiry.
Kolkata stampede: Police seek voice samples of 2 accused over loudspeaker announcement, move court
A loudspeaker announcement that a portion of the Chorbagan puja pandal was collapsing allegedly sparked panic among revellers, triggering a stampede-like situation
When Faith Meets The Failure Of Governance
By Inderjit Badhwar The Kolkata tragedy is a reminder that public safety cannot be left to chance, political expediency or promises of compensation after lives have been lost. There are few contradictions more painful than a gathering devoted to the triumph of good over evil ending in the deaths of those who came to worship. [] The post When Faith Meets The Failure Of Governance appeared first on India Legal .
The unsung modernist | 'Figures of Resilience' exhibition @ Kolkata's Art Exposure Gallery
The unsung modernist | 'Figures of Resilience' exhibition @ Kolkata's Art Exposure Gallery
Todays Gold Rate in India October 24: Gold prices up in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across metro cities on October 24
Gold, silver prices today, 24 October: Check the price of 18K, 22K and 24K gold and 999 Fine silver in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai today.
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.
Maoist couple carrying Rs 7 lakh combined bounty surrenders before Kolkata cops
A Maoist couple identified as Mangal and Malati surrendered before Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Nand on Friday and handed over their weapons. The pair, originally from West Bengal and active in Jharkhand, carried a combined bounty of Rs 7 lakh
Bengal Congress rules out seat sharing in upcoming urban civic polls
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 24 (IANS) The West Bengal Congress has ruled out any seat-sharing arrangement with either the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress faction or the CPI(M)-led Left Front in the state's upcoming elections for seven urban civic bodies, scheduled for next month. Sources in the West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee (WBPCC) said that although the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress has sent informal signals about the possibility of a seat-sharing arrangement, the top state leadership has rejected the idea. The state party leadership claimed that the upcoming urban civic body polls are not the right platform for such an experiment. According to the state Congress president, Subhankar Sarkar, any seat-sharing arrangement for the forthcoming urban civic body polls will be meaningless, since past experiences show how such local body polls are transformed into a farcical exercise due to the combined influence of the ruling party and the state administration. This time also there will be no difference, and in all probability BJP candidates will win from almost all the wards in these seven municipal bodies, taking advantage of its leverage. In that case, BJP will have the opportunity to claim victory as a spontaneous public support against united opposition. So, the urban civic body polls are not the ideal opportunity to try this seat-sharing arrangement, Sarkar said. Meanwhile, the CPI(M) leadership has also made it clear that despite being part of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc at the national level, in local body polls, the Left Front will contest independently without any seat-sharing arrangement with any other political force in the state. The question of having any seat-sharing arrangement with any faction in Trinamool Congress is out of the question. At the same time, any understanding with Congress at this point is also not desirable, since we believe that the forthcoming urban civic body polls will be the best opportunity for us to understand where we stand in terms of our organizational strength, said a CPI(M)s central committee member who did not wish to be named. Meanwhile, the Democratic Trinamool Congress, the faction in Trinamool Congress led by Ritabrata Banerjee, made it clear it will contest the upcoming urban civic body polls without any understanding with anyone. On the other hand, the bloc of 20 Trinamool Congress-turned-National Citizens Party of India (NCPI) Lok Sabha members, who claim to be part of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), is keen for a seat-sharing arrangement with the BJP for the civic polls. The tentative schedule for polls for the seven urban civic bodies, including Kolkata and Howrah Municipal Corporations, is in the last week of November, and the results will be declared in the first week of December.
BJP certain to win upcoming local body elections, Opposition divided: Dilip Ghosh
Digital Desk | Newtown, Oct 24 (IANS) West Bengal Minister, Dilip Ghosh, on Saturday expressed confidence in the BJP's victory in the upcoming local body elections, claiming that the Opposition was divided and lacked public support. He also criticised Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, questioned statements made by Mamata-All India Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh and commented on protests in Kolkata and drug abuse in Punjab. Speaking to reporters, Dilip Ghosh said, The BJP organisation works throughout the year and begins preparing for the elections well in advance. Now that the election time is approaching, decisions are being made and candidate selection is underway. Meetings are being held continuously, in which national leaders, state leaders, and our district in-charges in Kolkata are all working together to prepare the list of candidates, and the names will be announced as soon as the election dates are announced. Responding to statements made by Kunal Ghosh, an MLA from the Mamata-All India Trinamool Congress, Dilip Ghosh questioned the basis of his remarks and the authority under which he was speaking. On what basis is Kunal Ghosh making these claims, and on behalf of which party? Is he the chief spokesperson of any party? He keeps making statements at will. There is no substance or logic in his statements, and there is no logic in it, he said. Meanwhile, on Friday, Kunal Ghosh had said, Regarding what happened at Chorebagan, it is out of fear of the BJP. In the Chorebagan Puja Committee, the top leadership posts are held by BJP individuals and influential people. That is why they didn't catch them. Instead, they started targeting and arresting our workers who had organised the agitation. Harassment started from the morning, and they are arresting people on baseless, useless grounds. Regarding LoP Rahul Gandhi, the West Bengal Minister said discussions surrounding the Congress leader often focussed on his foreign visits rather than his political role, contributions or the electoral performance of his party. Whenever Rahul Gandhi is discussed, the discussion revolves around why he went abroad, when he went, where he went, and when he will return. Why is there no discussion about his role in politics, his contributions, and his party's electoral results, he said. He further said that some people think they can do whatever they want under the banner of the CJP. Some people think they can do whatever they want under the banner of the CJP. No one has such freedom. There is a legal system in the country and India is a democracy. Everyone has the right to protest for their rights and demands, but this must be done within the framework of the system. The police will cooperate, and the government will cooperate. It is not right to protest anywhere, he added. Reacting to a CJP rally in Kolkata, he said protests could be organised across states but claimed that the Opposition in Kolkata was divided and that such demonstrations would not succeed. They will protest not just in Kolkata, but in every state. The Opposition in Kolkata is divided among themselves. Anyone can do anything they want, but no one will succeed. The people here do not support this kind of anarchy, he told reporters. On the issue of drug abuse in Punjab, Dilip Ghosh questioned the Aam Aadmi Party's ability to tackle the problem. He said voters might have supported the party out of frustration with the Congress and other political parties rather than confidence in its ability to eliminate drug abuse. No one expected the Aam Aadmi Party to eradicate drug abuse. Perhaps people voted for them because they were fed up with the Congress or other parties. How can people who are addicted themselves create a drug-free society, he alleged.
Taste Kolkatas Tangra-style Chinese food at Chao in Kochi
Will start putting 27 puja safety plans in place a year in advance: CM
SIT chief flags narrow exits, poor lighting at puja pandal
A retired judge visited the site of a tragic stampede during Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata. The incident resulted in 19 deaths and 25 injuries, prompting an investigation by the Special Investigation Team. A second announcer was arrested for allegedly causing panic with misleading announcements at the pandal. The emergency exit was reportedly locked when chaos ensued, exacerbating the situation.
Kolkata airport sees 3.5L festive flyers during 6 puja days
Midnight liquor sales spike after dry Ashtami
Metro ferries 61.5 lakh; Sasthis 12L highest ever
Bay system may strengthen into cyclone, rain alert for Bengal
Kayastha, Garhwali , Pathare Prabhu & more: Indias forgotten micro-community kitchens
Handwritten note at airport sparks bomb scare, turns out to be hoax
Students sit-in against SRFTI vice-chancellor continues, Cannes award-winner backs protesters
Hooghly high tide helps ghat clean-up before Fri immersions
ER clocks 2.6 cr footfall in Sealdah div
Bengal: Greater conservation efforts to save the ghost of the mountains
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 23 (IANS) With their habitat constantly under threat, conservationists in India have called for greater efforts to monitor snow leopards, known as the Ghost of the Mountains. Snow leopards share their high-altitude habitat with local communities. Indias conservation efforts include community involvement and support for livelihoods alongside protection of snow leopard ecosystems, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) said on Friday on the occasion of International Snow Leopard Day. In India, snow leopards can be largely found in the high-altitude, cold, arid and rugged terrains of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Despite its large distributional range, the population of snow leopards across the world is dwindling, making it one of the most endangered cats in the world. The global population of snow leopards is estimated to be between 3500 and 7000 individuals, according to the Snow Leopard Conservancy - India Trust (SLC - IT). This organisation works for the conservation of the species and other animals in Ladakh and Spiti. It has identified the major threats that this magnificent animal faces. Snow leopards are highly threatened in India due to poaching for their pelts and body parts, a decline in prey base (mostly Blue Sheep and Asiatic Ibex) due to increasing domestic livestock that tend to quickly deplete the high-altitude pasture lands; and retaliatory killings by village communities whose livestock, sometimes 50 at a time, are killed for food by these predators. More recent threats include hydroelectric projects, mining and climate change, SLC - IT has said. The breeding pattern of the animal itself also makes it a highly vulnerable species, as a female snow leopard generally gives birth to only one or two cubs once in two years. So any change affecting their ecology makes it very difficult for these animals to improve their population base quickly. Known to be an umbrella or keystone species, the survival of these animals as the top predator hence becomes critical for the survival of other species in the ecosystem, it has said. According to the Ladakh Union Territory Administration, the Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) Report 2024 estimates 718 snow leopards in India, with Ladakh hosting the highest population of about 477. The Indian Army, which has bases close to where snow leopards live, has been playing a key role in the conservation of the animal. It collaborates with civil authorities to protect snow leopards and high-altitude ecosystems in Ladakh. On World Wildlife Day this year, the Fire and Fury Corps signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Forest, Ecology and Environment Department of the Union Territory of Ladakh. Under this agreement, a Joint Snow Leopard Conservation Cell has been established to monitor wildlife movements, share field observations from remote border areas, and curb threats like free-ranging feral dogs. Apart from snow leopards, the partnership protects the Himalayan Wolf, Bharal (Blue Sheep), Ibex, Marmot, and the Black-necked Crane. The initiative aligns with India's commitments under the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP).
Kolkata Restaurants See Record Sales In 8 Years
KMC draft voter list likely on Oct 26, to reveal post-delimitation ward, booth slotting
North or South Kolkata, Durga Puja revelry stays low in decibels
New Town Gate restaurant to reopen after fire check
Cops arrest 2nd announcer whose Pandal-is-collapsing call triggered panic
Kolkata Durga pandal stampede: CM blames 'human error'
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated that the Chorbagan Durga Puja stampede, which killed 19 people, was primarily due to human error. He visited victims' families, assured assistance, and announced an inquiry by a retired judge, with the report expected within three months. The CM also plans to meet puja committees on October 26 to discuss future safety measures.
CM promises jobs, hands over financial aid to two victims families
SIT allows Chorbagan immersion, other pujas take out silent marches
Bengal didnt elect BJP for TMC netas to change shirts: Samik
Arup rejects civic poll alliances, Madan differs
Pankaj Tripathi is set to make his hosting debut at the IIFA Digital Awards 2027, but the actor admitted that the responsibility has left him nervous. Known for his soft-spoken nature, Pankaj will share hosting duties with his Mirzapur co-stars Ali Fazal and Abhishek Banerjee at the ceremony scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi next year. The trio recently attended the IIFA 2027 press conference in Mumbai, where they spoke about their upcoming hosting responsibilities and shared a glimpse of their camaraderie off screen. While Ali Fazal discussed the box-office performance of Mirzapur The Movie, Pankaj opened up about his apprehensions about taking the stage as a host for the first time. Ali Fazal Talks About Mirzapur The Movie's Box-Office Performance Mirzapur The Movie collected in excess of Rs. 200 crores at the domestic box office. Reflecting on the film's performance, Ali spoke about its contribution to theatrical business at the press conference. Hosting is fine, but this year we have contributed to the box office in a little way. He further expressed gratitude for the response the film received from audiences, adding, We are very happy with all the love. We managed to bring a few people to the theatres with our film Mirzapur, Ali added. Pankaj Tripathi Opens Up About His IIFA 2027 Hosting Debut While Abhishek Banerjee recalled hosting the IIFA Awards twice and Ali Fazal mentioned his previous experience at the event, Pankaj will be stepping into the role for the first time. Introducing him to the stage, Ali said, Theres a third person who will be hosting for the first time, so we want to give him a little warm-up. Lets welcome Pankaj Tripathi to the stage. Speaking about his upcoming stint, Pankaj admitted that hosting was unfamiliar territory for him. He said, I am very scared because I am not used to hosting. I am soft spoken. I talk slowly, and I have seen people often shout while hosting. So I am scared who will listen to my soft speech there. The actor also offered a humorous take on how he plans to approach the responsibility, saying, I will make my hosting feel spiritual. It should feel like this man will transform life today. I will transform the audience, their soul with my hosting. Their lives will change. It wont be just an award. I will be more of a ghost than a host. I might make mistakes. All About IIFA 2027 The 26th edition of the IIFA Awards will be held at Yas Island in Abu Dhabi on January 22 and 23, 2027. The IIFA Digital Awards will take place at the Etihad Arena on January 22, with Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal and Abhishek Banerjee hosting the event. The ceremony will also feature performances by Himesh Reshammiya and Sunidhi Chauhan. The main awards ceremony, scheduled for January 23, will see Karan Johar, Varun Dhawan, Ananya Panday and Maniesh Paul take on hosting duties. The IIFA Awards 2027 will also be livestreamed on YouTube. Also Read : Pankaj Tripathi celebrates Durgashtami and Dussehra in Kolkata with family: The city has always held a very special place in my heart
Fake maritime job rackets: DGMA, RPSL holders launch campaign
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 23 (IANS) The Directorate General of Marine Administration (DGMA) has launched a major campaign to raise awareness among seafarers regarding fake job rackets in the maritime sector. In 2025-26 itself, scammers have got away with crores of rupees from unsuspecting mariners by offering them high-paying jobs on merchant vessels. Worst still, important documents belonging to the victims have been compromised. A genuine-looking job offer isnt enough. Verify before you trust. Before accepting a recruitment offer, check whether the recruiter is authorised, verify the job details and stay cautious of unusual payment demands. Never let urgency override verification. Take a moment to check. Make an informed decision. Protect your career at sea, the DGMA has said as part of its campaign. Several genuine Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL) holders and shipping companies have also joined the drive to create awareness about such scams. Hundreds of seafarers across India lose money, personal documents, and career momentum to fake maritime job offers every year. These scams have grown more sophisticated since 2020, and in 20252026 alone, police have filed cases involving crores of rupees stolen from job-seeking mariners, one such company has said in its notice. The victims range from fresh deck cadets searching for their first ship to experienced officers looking for a better contract, an official said. It has been clearly mentioned that genuine shipping companies and licensed RPSL holders will never ask applicants to pay for a job, visa, joining ticket, or processing fee. Hence, any demand for money before a mariner boards a vessel is a major red flag. Genuine RPSL holders never charge seafarers for employment or placement. All visa and medical costs are borne by the shipowner. Fake maritime job offers typically involve unrealistic salaries, no experience required promises, or fast promotions, and almost always demand advance payments or full document scans upfront, an RPSL holder said. Those applying for jobs should verify a recruiters RPSL status on the official DG Shipping portal before sharing documents or travelling to join a vessel. As of October 2026, there are 538 valid RPSL holders, 396 agencies with invalid or expired licenses, and 66 agencies that are temporarily suspended from recruiting, it has been mentioned. The scammers offer fraudulent employment proposals for positions on merchant vessels, cruise ships, or offshore platforms. The aim is to extract money, personal documents, or both from seafarers. Unlike generic job scams targeting office workers, these schemes specifically exploit the maritime industrys structures: RPSL numbers, CDC requirements, COC certificates, and the urgency of crew changes. Maritime recruitment scams often target job-seeking seafarers who are under financial or career pressure to find their next ship, the licence holder said. Things have got worse with people relying heavily on digital modes of communication for all requirements. WhatsApp groups, Telegram channels, Facebook pages, and even LinkedIn profiles now serve as primary channels for distributing fake jobs. Fraudsters set up offices or use co-working spaces in crewing hotspots like Navi Mumbai and Chennai, register a company name with India Private Limited or Marine Services Pvt Ltd in it, and begin advertising positions that look remarkably similar to those offered by legitimate ship management private limited firms. The fraudsters have also become increasingly fluent in DG Shipping terminology. They casually reference RPSL numbers, MLC compliance, CDC endorsements, and flag-state requirements to sound legitimate.
Lawyer-neta Nazias security upgraded
2 Announcers Held for Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede
Microphone announcements allegedly triggered panic, killing 19 and injuring 25.
Jhargram under Shahs ambit, says CM, sets 6-month makeover target
Goa Aces JA Racings Luviwe Sambudla dominates F4 Indian Championship round 3 to take points lead
Digital Desk | Chennai, Oct 23 (IANS) The Madras International Circuit in Chennai witnessed thrilling wheel-to-wheel battles, dramatic recoveries and a historic breakthrough as round 3 of the F4 Indian Championship, part of the Indian Racing Festival 2026, delivered three action-packed races on October 22 and 23. Goa Aces JA Racings Luviwe Sambudla emerged as the weekends standout performer, claiming two victories and a third-place finish to take the championship lead, while 15-year-old Aaron Mehta of Kolkata Royal Tigers made history by becoming the youngest race winner in the championships history. Sambudla turned a five-point deficit into a 21-point championship advantage, moving to 138 points ahead of Kichchas Kings Bengalurus Aris Kyriakou on 117. Across the 3.717-kilometre circuit, Sambudla showcased exceptional pace and racecraft, winning the opening two races from sixth on the grid before completing his weekend on the podium. Speed Demons Delhis Ntiyiso Mabunda was equally impressive, finishing second in all three races, while Mehta delivered a composed performance under pressure to secure his maiden victory in the final race. The 16-driver field, representing eight franchise teams, arrived in Chennai with Kyriakou leading the standings after a consistent run of podium finishes. However, challenging wet-weather conditions and fiercely contested battles quickly changed the complexion of the title fight. The opening race saw Kyriakou take the early lead, with Mehta initially keeping pace and Sambudla making up two places on the opening lap. As the wet conditions tested the field, Sambudla worked his way past Mehta for second before capitalising on a loss of rear grip from Kyriakou on lap nine to seize the lead. Ntiyiso Mabunda, who started tenth for Speed Demons Delhi, produced an impressive recovery drive, overtaking Mehta and Kyriakou to move into second, while Goa Aces JA Racings Aryan Narola also joined the fight at the front. With rain returning to the circuit, Sambudla pulled clear to win by 9.606 seconds, setting the fastest lap in 1:48.647. Ntiyiso Mabunda completed a remarkable climb from tenth to second, with Narola finishing third. Mehta crossed the line fourth, while Kyriakou had to settle for fifth. Speed Demons Delhis Krishay Gutte finished sixth as the highest-placed Indian driver. The result handed Sambudla a 10-point championship lead and shifted the momentum decisively in his favour. Sambudla carried that form into the second race, once again starting sixth under the reverse-grid format. Working his way through the field, the Goa Aces JA Racing driver secured his second consecutive victory in 33:22.590 after 13 laps, but the contest proved considerably closer. Ntiyiso Mabunda maintained the pressure throughout, finishing just 1.211 seconds behind the winner, while Sambudla recorded the fastest lap in 1:50.071. Ntiyiso Mabundas second consecutive runner-up finish underlined his consistency, while Kyriakou recovered to third for Kichchas Kings Bengaluru after his difficult opening race. Narola maintained fourth for Goa Aces JA Racing, followed by Gutte of Speed Demons Delhi, who again led the Indian contingent, and Mehta in sixth for Kolkata Royal Tigers. With the top six separated by just 5.414 seconds, the race highlighted the increasingly competitive nature of the field. Sambudlas second victory extended his championship advantage over Kyriakou to 14 points heading into the final race. The weekends defining moment came in the third race, as Mehta converted pole position into a breakthrough victory. The Kolkata Royal Tigers teenager held his nerve through a race punctuated by incidents, a red flag and a safety car intervention before resisting a late charge from Ntiyiso Mabunda to win by just 0.546 seconds. Mehta initially retained the lead as Narola of Goa Aces JA Racing challenged strongly through the opening corners. However, the slippery conditions soon caught several drivers out, with Kyriakou of Kichchas Kings Bengaluru running wide into the grass and becoming stranded in a deep puddle, while Swarnav Das of Kolkata Royal Tigers also slid off the circuit. The incidents prompted a red flag to allow the stranded cars to be recovered, with the field subsequently resuming behind the safety car. Kyriakou and Das were forced to restart from the back of the field, while Narola resumed in 13th. Following the restart, Mehta gradually established a lead of approximately 1.5 seconds over Sambudla. However, the retirement of Hyderabad Blackbirds Bhuvan Bonu, who had been running fourth, brought out the safety car and erased the advantage. As the race approached its conclusion, Ntiyiso Mabunda closed rapidly on Mehta, setting up a tense final-lap battle. The Speed Demons Delhi driver looked for a way through, but Mehta defended his position to secure his first championship victory and make history at just 15 years of age. Ntiyiso Mabunda finished second for the third consecutive time in Chennai, while Sambudla secured third to cap his double-win campaign. Das recovered from the back of the field to finish fourth for Kolkata Royal Tigers, ahead of Godspeed Kochis Mahlori Mabunda in fifth. Kyriakou mounted a recovery drive from 16th to sixth, while Kichchas Kings Bengalurus Enzo Rujugiro finished seventh. Narola climbed to eighth and recorded the fastest lap of the race in 1:39.676. The weekend also tested the resilience of the wider field, with Ahmedabad Apex Racers Mathias Alexander Forland retiring after one lap in the opening race. Godspeed Kochis Lily-May Watkins and Hyderabad Blackbirds Janine Wermuth also encountered difficulties in the wet conditions, highlighting the fine margins that shaped the three races. The Chennai round has significantly reshaped the championship battle, with Sambudla moving from five points behind Kyriakou to a 21-point lead after winning twice and finishing on the podium in all three races. Ntiyiso Mabundas three consecutive second-place finishes highlighted his consistency, while Mehtas historic maiden win added another milestone to a weekend defined by close racing, challenging weather and determined recovery drives. With the championship continuing into its next round, Sambudla leaves Chennai firmly in control of the standings, while Kyriakou faces the task of closing the gap. Mehta, meanwhile, emerges as one of the weekends breakthrough performers after converting his pace into a landmark victory for Kolkata Royal Tigers. Speed Demons Delhis Shahan Ali Mohsin converted pole position into victory in a closely contested opening race of the Indian Racing League (IRL) at the Madras International Circuit, holding off Goa Aces JA Racings Raoul Hyman by just 0.506 seconds over eight laps. Mohsin completed the race in 18:32.970 and recorded the fastest lap of 1:36.354, while Hyman charged from fourth on the grid to finish second. Chennai Turbo Riders Shane Chandaria completed the podium 2.690 seconds behind the winner, while Hyderabad Blackbirds Mohammed Ryan recovered from seventh to fourth. Kichchas Kings Bengalurus Emil Heyerdahl finished fifth, while Chennai Turbo Riders Sai Shiva Sankaran crossed the line sixth after starting third. Speed Demons Delhi also placed Sachel Rotge seventh following an impressive recovery from 11th, giving the team two drivers in the top seven. The top eight finished within 8.523 seconds of the winner, underlining the close competition in the opening IRL encounter.
Chorbagan stampede: Human error led to 19 deaths, says Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari
Army officers widow loses Rs 15 L in digital arrest scam
Puja 2028 dates set for split, 2 almanacs point to to Sept & Oct celebrations
Chorbagan locals want smaller puja, safety over spectacle
Last of Bengals Maoists surrender, police claim no active cadres left
TMC man held in 2023 case, party claims bid to silence Chorbagan protests
Banks see 5.19 lakh crore deposit outflow, credit shrinks 2.52 lakh crore
Kolkata's banking sector faced a Rs 5.19 lakh crore withdrawal of deposits in the fortnight ending October 15. Credit outstanding also contracted by Rs 2.52 lakh crore during the same period. Consequently, credit growth decreased to 18.2% from 19.4% in the prior fortnight. Meanwhile, deposit growth recorded a decline to 16.7% compared to 17.8%. The overall outstanding deposits reached Rs 278.76 lakh crore and outstanding credit was Rs 227.
Bengal: NCC cadets receive accolades for their selfless service during Durga Puja
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 23 (IANS) National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets of the West Bengal and Sikkim Directorate received appreciation on Friday for their service during Durga Puja in Kolkata and the districts of West Bengal. Maj Gen APS Chahal, ADG, NCC, West Bengal and Sikkim Directorate, appreciated the dedication, discipline and sense of responsibility displayed by the cadets at a ceremony held at the Corps Directorate in New Alipore, Kolkata. More than 8,000 cadets, both boys and girls, assisted local police in crowd management, regulating the movement of visitors, facilitating the smooth functioning of pandal operations and helping elderly citizens and other members of the public during the six days of the Pujas. The cadets rendered valuable assistance to the local police and civil administration in ensuring the smooth and orderly conduct of the festivities. Despite the tragic incident at the Chor Bagan Durga Puja pandal, the NCC cadets displayed remarkable courage, commitment and a strong sense of civic responsibility. Rising to the occasion, the cadets continued to turn up for their assigned duties and extended wholehearted support to the administration, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to public service during this challenging period, an official said. Their disciplined conduct, alertness and willingness to serve contributed significantly to the efforts of the administration in managing the large influx of devotees and pandal hoppers, he added. The cadets exemplified the core values of the National Cadet Corps discipline, selfless service, leadership, commitment and service to the nation. Their conduct during the Puja festivities reflected the spirit of 'Unity and Discipline' and demonstrated how young citizens can make a meaningful contribution to society, particularly during demanding circumstances, he added. Maj Gen Chahal commended the readiness of the cadets to assist the police and civil administration and their commitment to the safety, convenience and well-being of the public, even in the aftermath of an unfortunate incident. Highlighting the overall effort and impetus being given to strengthen NCC in West Bengal, the ADG mentioned that the directorate has been actively engaging with the state government for requisite support in terms of budget, staff, infrastructure and incentives for the cadets. The general officer appreciated the positive approach and the vision of the new government in the state to expand NCC to all institutions of West Bengal. He assured that the NCC Directorate is committed towards grooming the youth of the state, appreciating the role of cadets, associate officers, permanent instructors and the Group Headquarters in ensuring effective coordination and the successful execution of their assigned responsibilities. The selfless service rendered by these young cadets stands as a testament to the NCC's enduring commitment to nation-building, community service and the development of responsible citizens, the official said. Their actions have brought laurels to the organisation and reaffirmed the vital role of the NCC in fostering the spirit of service and solidarity within society, he said.
ED attaches Rs 85.2 crore Kolkata land linked to Unity Infraprojects bank fraud case
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 23 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has provisionally attached an immovable property spread over approximately 14.51 acres in Kolkata valued at Rs 85.20 crore, in connection with a bank fraud and money laundering case involving M/s Unity Infraprojects Ltd. (UIL) and others, the agency said on Friday. According to the ED, the attached land, located at Mouza Chakgaria in Kolkata, is held in the name of M/s Suburban Agriculture Dairy & Fisheries Pvt. Ltd. (SADAFPL). The attachment was made under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The money laundering investigation stems from an FIR registered by the CBI's Bank Securities & Fraud Branch in Mumbai on a complaint lodged by the State Bank of India. The FIR alleges that UIL, in connivance with its promoters, directors and associated entities, defrauded a consortium of 23 banks by availing credit facilities of around Rs 3,200 crore. The total outstanding dues, including interest, are estimated at approximately Rs 3,800 crore. According to investigators, the fraud involved fictitious transactions, round-tripping of funds, manipulation of financial records, and diversion of funds through shell entities. The ED said its probe revealed that funds from UIL were routed through its wholly owned subsidiary, Unity Realty & Developers Ltd. (URDL), and subsequently used to acquire and hold assets through associated companies. SADAFPL was identified as a step-down subsidiary of UIL through URDL. Further investigations established a trail linking the Chakgaria land parcel to funds originating from UIL and its group entities, indicating diversion and layering of proceeds generated from the scheduled offences. The property was attached under Section 5(1) of the PMLA to prevent its transfer or disposal pending confiscation proceedings. The agency noted that in July 2025 it had conducted searches at residential and commercial premises, as well as bank lockers, linked to UIL, its former directors and their family members. During those operations, movable assets worth Rs 31.21 crore were seized or frozen. The ED had also attached land parcels and flats valued at about Rs 1,493 crore through three separate provisional attachment orders, all of which were later confirmed by the Adjudicating Authority under the PMLA. With the latest attachment, the total value of movable and immovable assets attached or frozen in the case has risen to about Rs 1,609 crore, the agency said. The ED further informed that it filed a prosecution complaint before the Designated Special Court, City Civil and Sessions Court, Greater Bombay, Mumbai, on March 27, 2026. Further investigation is underway.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 23 (IANS) The forensic report on the pandal of Chorbagan Sarbojanin community Durga Puja in Kolkata, where a tragic stampede on the night of October 17 taking a toll of 19 lives, suggest that there was lack of adequate ventilation and cooling arrangements within the pandal premises. The forensic report had also suggested that because of the inadequate ventilation and cooling arrangements some kind of claustrophobia might have developed within the pandal at the time of stampede when a large number of people were assembled within the pandal premises. Sources from the Kolkata Police said that as per the forensic report, a total number of 24 air-conditioning machines with a combined capacity of 139 tonnes were there in the pandal of Chorbagan Sarbojanin this time. Considering the size and structure of this year's pandal, the air-conditioning capacity would have been enough to ensure proper ventilation and cooling arrangements had the footfall been low to medium. However, when the stampede took place the number of devotees present within the pandal premises was quite high and rather much higher than the footfall capacity. Because of the rains outside, the devotees within the pandal were refusing to come out, while the devotees outside tried to rush in the pandal to save themselves from the rain. This made the available ventilation and cooling arrangements inadequate, a city police insider said. Meanwhile, it had been decided that finally the idols of Chorbagan Sarbojanin will be immersed on Saturday. However, the pandal of the said Durga Puja will remain intact until further orders from the state government-appointment judicial probe panel which is conducting a parallel probe in the stampede strategy, besides the one being carried out by a Special Investigation Team of Kolkata Police. After visiting the said pandal on Thursday, the chairperson of the judicial probe panel, Justice Anindita Roy Saraswati (retired), said that while there was no problem in the immersion of the idols, the pandal will have to be kept intact for the sake of detailed investigation. She also added that the exit and entry pavilions were pathetically narrow and dim lighting inside the pandal might have also contributed to the confusion. She also claimed that the emergency exit route was locked when chaos began to unfold on the pandal premises.
Bomb Threat Note at Kolkata Airport Toilet Triggers Panic, Flights Unaffected
A handwritten note written on tissue paper warning of an explosive device at a boarding gate was discovered inside a womens restroom at Kolkatas Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Friday. The discovery prompted security agencies to launch a thorough search across the premises. The note, found by a member of the airports cleaning [] The post Bomb Threat Note at Kolkata Airport Toilet Triggers Panic, Flights Unaffected appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Bomb scare at Kolkata airport, searches underway
Bomb scare at Kolkata airport, searches underway Kolkata: A bomb threat, written on tissue paper, was found at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata on Friday and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and a bomb squad were carrying out an intensive search of the premises for any suspicious object, officials said. [] The post Bomb scare at Kolkata airport, searches underway appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Bomb threat note found in Kolkata airport toilet triggers search; no flight disruption
The airport authorities searched the area around gate 30, cleared the place as security personnel launched an extensive search
Kolkata Airport Bomb Scare: Tissue Paper Note Warns Of Bomb At Boarding Gate 30
A cleaning staffer found the threat note in a women's toilet. CISF personnel and the bomb squad searched the airport as police examined CCTV footage.
Bomb threat note in Kolkata airport toilet triggers search; no flight disruption
A bomb threat note was found at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Friday morning. The note was discovered in a women's toilet by a cleaning staff member, who alerted authorities promptly. Security personnel, including the bomb squad and CISF, conducted extensive searches around boarding gate number 30. There was no disruption to flight operations during this incident, which raised security concerns.
CPI(M) Book Sales Hit Rs 98 Lakh During Durga Puja Despite Alleged Attacks
Incidents of CPI(M) book stalls being vandalized were reported from Jadavpur, Haltu, and Kasba in Kolkata. Among them, a book stall in Jadavpur emerged as the focal point of the controversy.
Todays Gold Rate in India October 23: Gold prices down in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices down across metro cities on October 23
Multiple SpiceJet flights delayed at Bengaluru airport, passengers face hours of waiting
Three domestic services connecting Bengaluru with Kolkata and Mumbai were affected, with delays extending into the early hours of the following day.
Kolkata stampede: 2 held over 'pandal collapsing' announcements
Police in Kolkata have arrested two more individuals, Sanjib Raha and Kushal Majumdar, in connection with the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal stampede that resulted in 19 deaths. The arrests bring the total to nine. The duo allegedly caused panic by falsely announcing the pandal was collapsing, triggering a rush. Raha, the puja committee treasurer, had been absconding since the October 17 incident.
Kolkata stampede: Treasurer arrested over alleged panic-inducing announcement
Chorbagan Durga Puja treasurer Sanjib Raha has been arrested over an announcement allegedly warning that the pandal was collapsing, triggering panic in a stampede that killed 19 people and injured 25. Police are examining CCTV footage and possible crowd management lapses
Kolkata stampede: Treasurer held over 'pandal collapsing' announcement
The treasurer of the Chorbagan Durga Puja was arrested for allegedly misleading revellers by announcing that a section of the pandal was collapsing, which appeared to have triggered panic among them and led to the stampede that claimed the lives of 19 people last week, police said on Friday. Sanjib Raha, alias Sentu, was initially detained from a hideout in Nadia district on Thursday and later arrested, a senior officer said. There were two persons who were making announcements at the Chorbagan Durga Puja. He was one of them. He had been absconding since the incident occurred in the evening of October 17. We initially detained him in Nadia and then arrested him after hours of questioning, he said. At least 19 people died, and 25 others were injured in the stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata following a crowd surge amid rain. The two persons, who had been making announcements at the puja pandal on the Maha Saptami day, were identified via CCTV footage, the
Kolkata stampede: Second accused of making misleading announcement arrested
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 23 (IANS) Babu Majumdar a.k.a. Kalia, the second accused of making a misleading announcement that triggered panic among devotees at the Durga Puja pandal of Chorbagan Sarbojanin in North Kolkata on the night of October 17, was arrested by the Kolkata Police on Friday. Earlier on Thursday, the cops first detained and then arrested the prime accused behind the misleading announcement, Sanjib Raha a.k.a. Sentu, who was the treasurer of the organising committee for the Durga Puja pandal of Chorbagan Sarbojanin. During interrogation, Raha confessed that Majumdar was with him when the misleading announcement was made from a room outside the Puja pandal, which was reserved for the organising committee members and special guests. Confirming the development, a city police officer said that the investigating officials doubt the misleading announcement was made following instructions from someone else. While interrogation of Raha has been continuing since Thursday afternoon, the investigating officials will now interrogate Majumdar on the matter. If necessary, both accused will be interrogated simultaneously and together to avoid possibilities of them making contradictory statements. There were a number of factors that triggered panic and prompted the devotees within the pandal premises to rush. However, as we feel, the misleading announcement was the crucial factor in triggering panic among the devotees, leading to the stampede. Otherwise, the situation could have been manageable, and probably the loss of so many lives could have been avoided, the city police officer said. Like Raha, Majumdar also went absconding since the tragedy took place on the night of October 17. Majumdar is a neighbour of Raha in North Kolkata. The misleading announcement was made at a time when chaos had already set in within the pandal because of the rain, with those outside trying to get inside, and those within the pandal refusing to go out for the same reason. At that time, a misleading announcement was made, asking people to evacuate the pandal immediately for fear of the structure collapsing, triggering extreme panic and prompting pilgrims to rush out, with some even moving towards the entry gate to exit, ultimately leading to the stampede.
Chorbagan Durga Puja Treasurer Arrested Over Kolkata Stampede
Sanjib Raha was arrested for allegedly announcing that part of the pandal was collapsing, triggering panic in a stampede that killed 19 people.
Kolkata stampede: Accused changed SIM cards to hoodwink police
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 23 (IANS) Sanjib Raha a.k.a. Sentu, the person who was first detained and then arrested by Kolkata Police as a suspect of making the misleading announcement on a microphone on October 17 that triggered panic among devotees at the Durga Puja pandal of Chorbagan Sarbojanin in North Kolkata, had changed his mobile phone SIMs several times to hoodwink police before he was finally arrested. Raha, the treasurer of the organising committee for the community Durga Puja of Chorbagan Sarbojanin, was detained by the Kolkata police from Nadia district of West Bengal and brought to Kolkata for interrogation. Thereafter, after his marathon interrogation at the Kolkata Police headquarters at Lalbazar in central Kolkata, he was finally arrested on Thursday night, an official said. Immediately after the tragedy, Raha disabled his original mobile SIM, left Kolkata and went underground. However, he had been interacting with his family members and friends in Kolkata using other SIMs. Investigators tracked eight such suspicious numbers he used to contact his family members and friends since the tragedy took place. Based on that information, our men finally detained him first from Nadia on Thursday and then arrested him after integration, said a city police officer. Following his interrogation, the investigating officers also found that the misleading public announcement was made from a separate room outside the pandal, which was exclusively reserved for organising committee members and special guests. During the interrogation of Raha, the investigating officials found another person who was with him when he made the misleading announcement. That person, also a neighbour of Raha in North Kolkata, is also missing since the tragedy, and the cops are trying to track him as well. The misleading announcement was made at a time when chaos had already started surfacing within the pandal because of the rain, with those outside trying to get inside the pandal to save themselves from the rain and those within the pandal refusing to go out for the same reason. At that time, a misleading announcement was made, asking people to evacuate the pandal immediately for fear of the structure collapsing, triggering extreme panic and prompting the pilgrims to rush out, with some even moving towards the entry gate to exit, ultimately leading to the stampede. Currently, two parallel probes are being carried out into the stampede tragedy. The first probe is by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Kolkata Police, headed by an assistant commissioner-rank officer attached to the detective department (DD) of the city police. The second probe is being conducted by a judicial probe panel, constituted by the state government, headed by Justice Anindita Roy Saraswati (retired). The judicial panel is supposed to complete its investigation and submit a report to the state government within the next three months.
