Twenty years after its launch in India, Bigg Boss continues to draw audiences, with its latest season achieving a new viewership milestone. Bigg Boss Hindi Season 20 has crossed 100 crore hours of watch time on JioHotstar in under 60 days, making it the fastest season in the franchise's history to reach the mark. The season, which premiered in September, had earlier recorded the biggest opening day ever for a reality show on JioHotstar. The latest milestone further reflects the show's continued reach and audience engagement, two decades after it first introduced the reality television format to Indian viewers. The show's engagement figures also indicate that audiences are participating beyond watching episodes. More than 350 crore votes have been cast this season, marking a 71% increase compared to the previous season. The number of fans participating in voting has also grown by 48%. Additionally, viewers have created over three times as many memes as last season, while participation in Jeeto, the show's interactive play-along game, has more than doubled. The show's reach extends beyond India as well. Bigg Boss Hindi Season 20 has consistently featured among JioHotstar's top five titles in the UK, Canada and Singapore since its premiere. In the UAE, the show currently ranks No. 1 on STARZPLAY and has remained among the platform's top 10 titles since its streaming debut. Speaking about the milestone, host Salman Khan said, Bigg Boss ka asli game sirf ghar ke andar nahi, ghar ke bahar bhi chalta hai, jahaan audience har moment se judi rehti hai. Reaching 100 crore watch-time hours on JioHotstar is a testament to the incredible love and connection our viewers share with the show. Every season brings something new, but what remains constant is the excitement and enthusiasm of our audience. This milestone belongs to each one of you. Thank you for being such an important part of the Bigg Boss journey! Alok Jain, Head Hindi & English Entertainment Business (Streaming, TV & Studios), JioStar, also spoke about the achievement and the show's growing digital audience. He said, 100 crore hours is a moment of real pride for all of us. Thats more than an hour of Bigg Boss for every person in the Hindi-speaking market, on digital alone, before you even count television. We are excited to have crossed 100 crore hours on JioHotstar with nearly half the season still to go. Its heartening to see viewers embrace a season we have shaped around what they love most about the show. Bigg Boss has always been made for every Indian, and today it is watched from the biggest metros to the smallest villages. This season, we gave our audience even more ways to be part of it: they dont just watch the house, they help run it, voting, polling and debating as the drama unfolds. Our heartfelt thanks go to every viewer who has made the show their own, Deepak Dhar, Founder and Group CEO, Banijay Asia and Endemol Shine India, added, Reaching 100 crore watch-time hours is a moment were deeply grateful for. Every one of those hours is a testament to the love and appreciation of a viewer who chose to spend their time inside the Bigg Boss house, and we dont take that for granted. For over two decades, this show has grown because the audience has made it their own. The way our audience engages with the show is a testament to how Bigg Boss has defined unscripted content in India, and that is what makes us want to make it bigger, better and bolder with every season. To our viewers, thank you for your love and loyalty. To Salman Khan, our partners at JioStar, and the entire Endemol Shine India team, thank you for the passion and hard work that goes into making the show every day. Were proud of this milestone, and we promise to keep working to give you more reasons to tune in. In India, the show's viewership spans major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad, along with Lucknow, Surat, Jaipur and Nagpur. The latest season has also attracted younger audiences, with Gen Z accounting for 45% of its total watch time. Meanwhile, connected TV viewership has continued to grow, indicating increased family viewing on larger screens. The season has also secured partnerships with 24 sponsors across multiple categories, including FMCG, e-commerce, beauty and cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, real estate, consumer electronics, kitchen and home appliances, and on-demand home services. Currently available in six languages, Bigg Boss remains JioHotstar's biggest entertainment franchise and a key part of JioStar's Always On Unscripted offering. Bigg Boss Hindi Season 20 streams 24x7 on JioHotstar. The format is owned by Banijay Entertainment and produced by Endemol Shine India. Also Read : Bigg Boss 20: Yung DSA ADMITS cheating on girlfriend 10 times, fears losing her
Delhi AQI At 373 As GRAP 3 Curbs Kick In; Mumbai, Kolkata Record Unhealthy Air Quality
From Delhi's AQI of 275 to Bengaluru's 60, here's how air quality compares across six Indian cities.
Zomato Limitless Delivery launched in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata and 4 other cities: How it works?
Zomato, a popular food delivery app, just launched Limitless Delivery in major Indian cities like Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata, and a few others. This new feature will enable the customers to let you order food from restaurants as far as 40 kilometres away, as long as they are in the same city. Basically, customers will no longer be stuck with whatever is close by, where customers could reach out their favourite restaurants that might have been out of range before.
Dhanteras boosts gold and silver coin demand in Kolkata
The News Mill
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 6 (IANS) West Bengal Finance Department issued a notification announcing the state governments decision to bring all non-teaching employees in 25 state universities and all employees of three state education boards and councils under the 7th Pay Commission. The three education boards and councils whose employees will be brought under the 7th Pay Commission are West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE), West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) and the West Bengal Board of Madrasah Education (WBBME). As per the notification issued by Prabhat Kumar Mishra, the Additional Chief Secretary to the State Finance Department, while the state government had constituted the 7th Pay Commission for State Government employees as well as certain other categories of employees and decided the terms of reference, the Governor, R.N. Ravi, had decided that the Commission will also examine the existing pay structure and conditions of service of the regular non-teaching employees in the state-aided universities and all employees in the three education boards and councils. The Commission will make necessary recommendations as early as possible, read the notification. However, the notification did not provide any information on the rate at which the salaries of the concerned education workers will increase. The notification had also not given any clarification on what the new salary structure will be, when it will be effective, and how the arrears will be settled. It is believed that a decision in this regard can be taken only after the commission's recommendations. After the new government took over, there have been expectations among the state government employees regarding the Pay Commission, dearness allowances at par with those of central government employees accrued on it. The Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, had also announced that the 7th Pay Commission would be formed to restructure the pay structure of the state government employees. After that announcement, the state government started the initial process of forming the 7th Pay Commission.
Kolkata man arrested for alleged ATM robbery bid in Kannur
To Make A Social Media Reel, Kolkata Man Forced To Drink Petrol, Set Ablaze
A bid to create viral social media content takes a horrific turn as attackers allegedly douse a man with petrol and set him ablaze in Kolkata.
To Shoot Reel, Kolkata Man Forced To Drink Petrol, Set On Fire. 3 Arrested
The victim managed to escape by running away and removing his burning clothes. Local residents helped take him to the hospital.
Jadavpur University Domain Expert Recruitment 2026
Jadavpur University has invited eligible candidates to attend a Walk-in Interview for the post of Domain Expert. The walk-in interview will be held on 27 November 2026 at School of Cultural Texts and Records (SCTR), Rabindra Bhavan (5th Floor), Jadavpur University, Kolkata. Candidates should report at 11:00 AM. Further details are available at jadavpuruniversity.in.
Kolkata graduate, 22, questions salary race: 'How much money is enough?'
A young engineering graduate from Kolkata is contemplating realistic salary expectations while starting his career. He seeks financial security without the pressure of affluent spending habits seen around him. Discussions on desired salaries and lifestyle choices have led to valuable insights from Reddit users. Varied perspectives highlight the importance of aligning income with personal financial goals. Ultimately, he aims to build a comfortable life without chasing high salaries unnecessarily.
'For a social media reel': Kolkata teen blindfolded, doused in petrol and set on fire
Kolkata Teen Set Ablaze For Reel; Family Alleges Financial Dispute
A teenage boy in Kolkata was blindfolded, doused in petrol, and set ablaze by three accused, allegedly for a social media reel. The victim's family claims the attack stemmed from a financial dispute. The incident occurred on October 27, and the accused, including two minors, were arrested on Thursday. The victim is stable and undergoing treatment for burn injuries.
Juhi Chawla features in Apple's 2026 Diwali campaign, titled Step Into the Light, which brings together Indian textiles, traditional dance and technology. Created in collaboration with Indian fashion label Raw Mango, the campaign is part of Apple's Shot on iPhone series and has been filmed entirely using the iPhone 18 Pro. Directed by Raw Mango founder Sanjay Garg, the film is set against the backdrop of Rajasthan's Tijara Fort. It features a group of dancers dressed in traditional Indian textiles, including Chanderi, Mashru and Varanasi brocades. The dancers perform to a folk interpretation of 'Roop Suhana Lagta Hai,' the popular song from Juhi's 1994 film The Gentleman. The campaign takes a nostalgic turn towards its closing moments when Juhi makes an appearance in festive outfits from Raw Mango. One of her looks features a striking purple ensemble. The choreography also draws inspiration from her original performance in the song, bringing a connection between the actor's earlier work and the campaign's contemporary presentation. View this post on Instagram A post shared by apple (@apple) Juhi Chawla revisits her iconic song through Apple's Diwali film The choice of 'Roop Suhana Lagta Hai' gives the campaign a connection to Juhi's filmography while placing Indian textiles and folk performance at its centre. Through the collaboration, Apple and Raw Mango bring together fashion, music and visual storytelling, with the iPhone 18 Pro serving as the sole filming device. The campaign also offers a glimpse of Juhi Chawla's association with the fashion and entertainment space at a time when she has largely stepped back from taking on regular film assignments. The actor has not announced any upcoming movie projects for 2026 or 2027 and remains involved in her business interests. Among her prominent business associations is Kolkata Knight Riders, the IPL franchise she co-owns with Shah Rukh Khan and her husband Jay Mehta. Her investments and business interests have also contributed to her reported wealth, estimated at around Rs. 7,790 crore in the Hurun India Rich List 2025. Also Read:Alisha Chinai makes SHOCKING revelation She was SHORTLISTED with Juhi Chawla for Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak: I didnt go for the final auditionAamir Khan was QUITE upset
Australian Cricketer Chris Lynn Suspended After Testing Positive For Cocaine
The former Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders batter tested positive during a routine anti-doping test in England on July 18.
Tanishq's 22K gold rate stood at 1,31,900 per 10 grams on Dhanteras, November 6, while Malabar Gold priced it at 1,31,500. Here are the latest 22K and 24K rates, price trends and buying muhurat.
Presidency University Project Fellow Recruitment 2026
Institute of Health Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata has released the official notification for the post of Project Fellow. The last date to send the application by email is 15 November 2026. Further details are available at presiuniv.ac.in.
Northeast India can emerge as strategic gateway to South and Southeast Asia: Experts
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 6 (IANS) Northeast Indias growing geopolitical significance, its strategic location at the intersection of South and Southeast Asia, and its potential to emerge as a key gateway for regional connectivity and economic integration were highlighted by experts during a two-day series of academic engagements in Guwahati organised by the Chintan Research Foundation (CRF). The dialogue titled Northeast India in a Changing Geopolitical Order: Connectivity, Borderlands, Frontier Governance and Strategic Opportunities was organised by the CRF in collaboration with Girijananda Chowdhury University (GCU) and Assam Don Bosco University (ADBU) on November 4 and 5, respectively. The discussions emphasised that Northeast India should not be viewed merely as a peripheral region or transit corridor, but as an active participant in India's regional and international engagements. The regions geographical proximity to Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar and other Southeast Asian countries offers significant opportunities for cross-border trade, connectivity, energy cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. However, these opportunities must be balanced against challenges relating to border management, security, migration, infrastructure gaps and the aspirations of frontier communities. In his special address at GCU, during a One-day Dialogue titled Bangladesh-Northeast India Interface: Connectivity, Borderlands and Geopolitics, Shishir Priyadarshi, President, CRF, emphasised the need for sustained engagement with Bangladesh, citing the 'Woodpecker Approach' of patience and consistent efforts. He highlighted CRF's role in fostering dialogue and research and called for greater inclusion of Northeast India's perspectives in India's foreign policy. The panel discussions highlighted Bangladesh's strategic importance for Northeast India's connectivity through ports, inland waterways and cross-border networks, while examining the Bay of Bengal's growing geopolitical significance, the influence of external powers and the potential of borderlands for economic cooperation. During the second days seminar titled Indias Northeast in a Changing Geopolitical Order: Connectivity, Frontier Governance and Strategic Opportunities, ADBU Vice Chancellor Jose Palely stressed the importance of viewing international borders as spaces of economic opportunity and social interaction, with frontier communities recognised as important stakeholders in governance and development. The sessions across both engagements examined the opportunities and challenges associated with regional connectivity and strategic cooperation. The two-day discussions also highlighted the importance of the Akhaura-Agartala railway link, access to Bangladesh's seaports, inland waterways and road networks, alongside major regional initiatives such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project. The speakers also emphasised the need to improve intra-regional connectivity, upgrade border infrastructure, simplify customs procedures and strengthen institutional coordination. The potential of developing alternative connectivity routes through Bangladesh, including the Agartala-Kolkata road link, was also discussed in the context of reducing excessive dependence on the Siliguri Corridor. The geopolitical discussions addressed China's growing strategic presence, concerns surrounding water security and the Yarlung Tsangpo River, the strategic importance of the Siliguri Corridor, cross-border drug trafficking and the evolving political situation in Myanmar and Bangladesh. The speakers underscored the importance of India's Act East and Neighbourhood First policies, while highlighting the need to translate connectivity initiatives into tangible economic and developmental benefits for local communities. The potential for wider regional cooperation through platforms such as BIMSTEC was also emphasised. The experts called for greater participation of Northeastern states in shaping India's external engagement with neighbouring countries, including through para-diplomacy and stronger institutional cooperation. The discussions emphasised that the region should not merely facilitate connectivity between India and its neighbours but must also emerge as a principal beneficiary of regional cooperation. The two-day engagements underscored that transforming Northeast India into a strategic gateway to South and Southeast Asia requires more than infrastructure development. It called for sustained diplomatic engagement, effective frontier governance, regional cooperation, inclusive development, and the active participation of border communities in shaping the region's future.
Bengal Biennale 2026: Artists, theme, dates and venues
From Rabindranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose and Chittaprosad to contemporary artists and emerging practitioners, the second edition of the Bengal Biennale explores ecology, memory, displacement and belonging through Banalata, across Kolkata and Santiniketan.
According to Drik Panchang, the gold-buying muhurat for Kolkata begins at 10.30 am on November 6 and continues until 6.37 am on November 7.
Anti-submarine warfare Amini delivered to Indian Navy in Tamil Nadu's Kattupalli
Anti-submarine warfare shallow-water craft Amini, indigenously designed and constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, Kolkata, was delivered to the Indian Navy at Kattupalli in Tamil Nadu on Thursday. Defenders of the Deep -
Calcutta HC set to pronounce its verdict today in KMC ward delimitation case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 6 (IANS) A Division Bench of the Calcutta High Court will pronounce a crucial verdict on Friday in the case challenging the recent delimitation of wards in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), which is scheduled to go to the polls this year-end. The hearing in the matter was concluded at the Calcutta High Courts Division Bench of Justice Sabyasachi Bhattacharya and Justice Arjun Roy on November 4. However, the Division Bench reserved judgment, barring the West Bengal State Election Commission (WBSEC) from announcing the schedule for the forthcoming KMC polls until the court pronounced the order. Now, on Friday, the Division Bench will pronounce judgment in the matter, and it will be clear whether polling for the formation of the new KMC board will happen by the year-end or not. Polling for seven urban civic bodies in West Bengal, including KMC and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC), is likely to take place in the last week of December, and results are expected to be announced in the first week of January next year. Before that, the delimitation of the wards in KMC had been announced, increasing the number of wards to 209 from 144. Meanwhile, the Communist Party of India(Marxist) approached the Calcutta High Court, challenging the delimitation process. In the petition filed by CPI(M) leader and former party Councillor Dipu Das, she claimed that despite some serious objections to the new ward delimitation being raised and a proposal mooted for a 'spot visit' and a public hearing in the area to get the opinions of the citizens, no importance was given to those objections and proposals. The petitioner also claimed that several aspects, including the population and geographical location of the wards, were not properly considered in the delimitation exercise. She even claimed that this move was made to give benefits to a specific party. Initially, the matter was heard at the Calcutta High Court's single-judge bench of Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharya. However, instead of passing any specific order in the matter, Justice Bhattacharya directed all parties concerned to file affidavits in the matter. Thereafter, the petitioner approached the Division Bench of Justice Bhattacharya and Justice Roy, challenging the order of the single-judge bench. The petitioner contended that if the WBSEC were to announce the schedule of the KMC before a clear judgment in the matter, her petition would not have any relevance. The hearing on the matter in the Division Bench concluded on November 4, and at the end of the hearing, the Division Bench ruled that the WBSEC should not announce the schedule for the KMC polls till the court pronounced its verdict in the matter.
I faced lot of hate: RCB star reveals how he was trolled whenever Gill hit a ton
Venkatesh Iyer experienced significant online backlash from Kolkata Knight Riders supporters after Shubman Gill's release. Fans would often criticize him on social media whenever Gill performed well. He revealed his thoughts about his situation ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, mentioning his previous approach to Shah Rukh Khan. After being released, Iyer moved on and joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he noticed the strong fan connection.
Will do something for Singur, West Bengal CM signals fresh industrial push
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that the government was in talks with Ashok Leyland for setting up a plant at Singur
Christian community hits the road over recent mob attacks on churches
A five-member delegation of the Bangiya Christiya Pariseba met the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) State Head, Dr. Jishnu Basu, on November 5; Dr. Basu said that attacks or vandalism on places of worship are entirely unacceptable and cannot be justified under any circumstances
119 warships & counting: Kolkata-based GRSE delivers fifth submarine-hunter to Navy
A new sunrise: Bengal Inc welcomes incentives offered in states new industrial policy
South suburban pockets supply most of Kolkatas noise demons
Rabindra Sarobar regulars fear return of pre-2019 days
Kolkata Police enforce stricter fines on illegal firecracker sellers
SRFTI classes to stay suspended till Dec 11
3 coaching centre teachers thrash traffic cop, held
Tourism dept launches portal to list verified homestays
Drunk driver crashes SUV, injures two, damages Rajiv Gandhi statue
Korean water cannons guard Maidan Bazi Bazaar
Poush Mela to be held from Dec 23
SEC pushes back publication of final voter roll for KMC poll
Presidency played role in Vande Matarams evolution from song to victory slogan
Doctor shops for magnet, uses it to draw another out of 6-year-old girls airway
Bizwoman falls prey to AI voice cloning scam
Body found in abandoned luxury car at Kasba garage
ISL: Erwin nets late winner as Bagan remains on top
The Kolkata outfit has 12 points from five matches while Odisha remains on two from four
MBSG Beats Odisha FC 3-2 In ISL
Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated Odisha FC 3-2 in a high-scoring Indian Super League match in Kolkata on Thursday. Dejan Drazic scored twice and Lee Erwin netted the winner in the 88th minute, propelling MBSG to the top of the league table.
IFL 2026/27: Bengaluru United host Mohammedan SC in maiden home game
Digital Desk | Bengaluru/Shillong, Nov 5 (IANS) A double-header featuring a historic home debut in Karnataka for Bengaluru United followed by an all-Northeast showdown in Meghalaya between Shillong Lajong FC and Chanmari FC will start Match Week 2 of the Indian Football League (IFL) 2026-27 season on Friday. In the afternoon fixture at the Bangalore Football Stadium, IFL debutants FC Bengaluru United will play their first-ever home match in the competition against two-time I-League champions Mohammedan Sporting Club. Later in the evening, last season's runners-up Shillong Lajong FC will welcome Mizoram outfit Chanmari FC to the SSA Stadium in Shillong. The afternoon encounter sees two sides looking to get off the mark in the 2026-27 standings after suffering narrow 1-0 defeats via late goals on the opening weekend. Hosts FC Bengaluru United, who earned promotion to the IFL for the first time in club history as runners-up in the 2025-26 I-League 2 season, currently sit ninth in the table following a hard-fought 0-1 loss away to Dempo Sports Club in Fatorda. In their season opener in Goa, FC Bengaluru United fielded a disciplined defensive unit marshalled by Daniel, Abdul Hannan, and goalkeeper Manjunath Hirekurbar, with Ribhav Sardesai and Lalramdinsanga Ralte anchoring the midfield behind Russian forward Marat Tarek. Hirekurbar, Daniel, and Hannan stood out at the back to frustrate Dempo for 97 minutes, while Sardesai and Ralte worked tirelessly in the engine room and Tarek threatened with his runs in behind the opposition backline. Guided by head coach and former India international Nallappan Mohanraj, the Karnataka side will look to turn their resilient away display into points in front of their home supporters at the Bangalore Football Stadium. Definitely it was a disappointing end for us in Goa because a fair result would have been a point, especially after we dominated the game without the ball for 96 minutes before losing concentration on a set-piece, FC Bengaluru United head coach Nallappan Mohanraj said. That was a great learning experience for us, and now we have to pick ourselves up for our very first IFL home game, which this club has dreamt of for years. Mohammedan is a very good, historic club coming back from the ISL, and playing them at home is a great opportunity for us to bounce back. The boys are motivated and prepared to go out there and give more than 100 per cent for the three points, he added. FC Bengaluru United defender Abdul Hannan expressed his excitement ahead of stepping out in front of the home faithful in Bengaluru. It is everyone's dream to play in the IFL, and having been to the Bangalore Football Stadium so many times over the years, getting the chance to finally play here in front of our home fans is a special feeling, Abdul Hannan said. We worked very hard last year to qualify for this stage, and tomorrow is our chance to prove ourselves, give everything on the pitch, and win for our supporters. Visitors Mohammedan Sporting Club, returning to the IFL following their stint in the Indian Super League, currently occupy eighth place in the standings after going down 1-0 at home to Shillong Lajong FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday, October 31. Fielding an all-Indian squad, the Black and White Brigade defended doggedly throughout the afternoon before substitute Nelson Rymbai broke the deadlock in the 90th minute to hand the visitors victory. Skipper Mahitosh Roy, Tangva Ragui, and Thokchom Adison Singh operated in midfield, supporting an attacking trio of Lalremsanga Fanai, Israfil Dewan, and Mohammad Fardin Ali Molla. Goalkeeper Deka was the standout performer for the Kolkata side, pulling off a string of eight saves, including a crucial stop in the 69th minuteto keep his team in the contest until the closing stages. Led by head coach Saheed Ramon, Mohammedan SC will aim to build on their defensive grit while finding greater fluency in the final third, even as they manage the absence of Thokchom Adison Singh and Israfil Dewan for the trip to Bengaluru. Both teams lost their opening match, so this is a big challenge and an important game for both sides, but we have prepared well, and our boys are ready to fight, Mohammedan SC head coach Saheed Ramon said. In our first match, the boys were very compact and did well defensively, but we missed clear chances that we should have converted. We are working to improve in the final third and cut out the late mistakes that cost us last time. Even though we will be without Adison and Israfil for this match, I have complete trust in every player in our squad. Mohammedan SC senior defender Hira Mondal, who confirmed he has fully recovered from minor cramps suffered earlier in the week, highlighted how the extra training days have helped the squad settle. As a senior player, I stayed in touch with all the boys even before we assembled so that everyone maintained their fitness levels, Hira Mondal said. The first match was difficult because we had very little time together, but having these last three to four days of training has helped us adjust to the coach's plan, which we already know well from the Calcutta Football League. I am completely fit now, and we are confident of putting in a strong performance tomorrow. Friday's encounter marks the first-ever meeting between FC Bengaluru United and Mohammedan Sporting Club in the Indian Football League. The two sides previously met in the group stage of the 2021 Durand Cup in Kalyani on September 14, 2021, where FC Bengaluru United recorded a 2-0 victory over Mohammedan SC. Shillong welcome Chanmari in Northeast derby Under the floodlights at the SSA Stadium in Shillong, an exciting Northeast derby takes centre stage as Shillong Lajong FC play their first home match of the season against a Chanmari FC side kicking off their 2026-27 campaign after serving a Matchweek 1 bye. Hosts Shillong Lajong FC, who finished as runners-up in the 2025/26 IFL Championship Round with 28 points from 14 matches (just one point behind champions Diamond Harbour FC), sit fifth in the early standings after opening their campaign with a 1-0 away triumph over Mohammedan SC in Kolkata last Saturday. Dominating possession and chance creation for large spells, Lajong sealed all three points in the 90th minute when second-half substitute Nelson Rymbai struck the decisive winner. Substitute forward Nelson Rymbai made the decisive impact off the bench alongside Treimiki Lamurong and Abelson Jachi, while Jota and Damaitphang Lyngdoh orchestrated a relentless attacking display that kept the opposition pinned back. Returning to their fortress in Shillong, Thapa will look for his side to carry their away momentum into their home opener in front of their passionate supporters. It is very important that we carry the momentum from our away win in Kolkata into our first home match tomorrow, as winning at home will give the boys a great boost for the matches ahead, Shillong Lajong FC head coach Birendra Thapa said. Playing in front of our home crowd is a huge motivation because our fans act as the 12th man and give the players extra energy right until the final whistle. With the addition of quality foreign signings like Jota, Joedson, and Arthur this season, fans can expect the same exciting and entertaining brand of football. I have been following Chanmari closelythey did very well last year, recently won the MPL title, and have signed three foreigners, so we expect a very good contest, he added. For Shillong Lajong FC's Brazilian playmaker Joo Vitor De Paula Morais (Jota), Friday's clash carries added personal significance as he lines up against the club he represented last season. While I am playing against my former club, for me it is another professional game, and my full focus is on giving everything to help Shillong Lajong, Jota said. My target tomorrow is to contribute with goals and assists and help the team secure all three points at home. Visitors Chanmari FC enter the fray for their first match of the 2026-27 season after sitting out the opening weekend of the 11-team competition. In their debut IFL campaign in 2025-26, the Mizo club impressed by qualifying for the top-six Championship Round and finishing fifth overall on 15 points from 14 matches, before also capturing the 2025-26 Mizoram Premier League title. Ahead of the new season, Chanmari FC appointed former India international winger Steven Dias as Head Coach in September 2026. Captained by experienced goalkeeper Zothanmawia, the Aizawl outfit have bolstered their roster with foreign trio Denilson, Gabriel Paz, and Seila Toure to complement a dynamic domestic core. Statistically, Shillong Lajong FC produced the most dominant attacking metrics of Matchweek 1, recording 66 per cent ball possession, 32 total shots (nine on target), and 14 corner kicks in their 1-0 win over Mohammedan SC. Friday's encounter sets up an intriguing reunion on the flanks involving Brazilian attacker Jota (Joo Vitor De Paula Morais), who now lines up for Shillong Lajong after featuring for Chanmari FC last term. Shillong Lajong FC and Chanmari FC met twice during the 2025-26 Indian Football League season, with Shillong Lajong winning both encounters. In their Stage I meeting at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl on March 19, 2026, Shillong Lajong came from behind to defeat Chanmari FC 2-1 following a late injury-time winner. In the Championship Round return fixture at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on May 2, 2026, Shillong Lajong registered a comprehensive 4-0 victory, with Treimiki Lamurong opening the scoring in first-half stoppage time (45+1'). With FC Bengaluru United and Mohammedan SC both determined to secure their first points of the campaign, Shillong Lajong FC aiming to build on their opening-day win at home, and Chanmari FC eager to make a statement in their season curtain-raiser, Friday's double-header promises an absorbing day of action.
In festive season, Kalimpongs marigold growers struggle to find their market
BNP blaming India for violence by workers of Bangladesh Garment Industry
New Delhi has to be vigilant till Hasinas proposed departure to Dhaka next month By Ashis Biswas KOLKATA: Especially among leaders of the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), old habits die hard they must anyhow blame India for their own acute problems of governance at home! Take the recent violent agitation launched [] The post BNP blaming India for violence by workers of Bangladesh Garment Industry appeared first on Northlines .
Partnership to promote student and faculty exchanges, joint research, internships and industry-oriented learning Bilkul Online Ahmedabad | 05 Nov 2026 The post MICA Signs MoU with Kolkatas Bhawanipur Education Society College to Boost Academic Collaboration appeared first on Bilkul Online .
Nothing to be built in Babars name, says Suvendu
Multi-Crore Puja Pass Scam: Ex-Minister's Daughter Faces Police Grilling
Kolkata Police's Detective Department questioned Avery Sen, daughter of former minister Indranil Sen, regarding an alleged multi-crore scam involving Durga Puja pass distribution. An associate, Dhruvajyoti Basu, was arrested and remanded to police custody. Investigators are examining financial transactions between Sen's organisation, his daughter's company, and his wife's accounts.
Zomato Rolls Out Limitless Delivery in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata, More Indian Cities
Zomato's new Limitless Delivery feature gives users access to restaurants located much farther from their delivery addresses, with orders possible from up to 40km away within the same city. The feature is available in Bengaluru, Delhi NCR, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune and Hyderabad. Users can browse eligible restaurants through a dedicated section on the app or search for them directly. Zomato has also rolled out Host Mode, which hides menu and cart prices while guests add items to a group order.
Lightning strikes on mangrove forests are helping create nursery habitats: WII
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 5 (IANS) While lightning strikes can be deadly, they are crucial for maintaining large-scale demographic patterns in plant communities, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has ascertained through a study of the dense mangrove forests in the Andamans. Lightning strikes in mangrove forests often result in the formation of small- to medium-sized canopy gaps, characterised by the death of trees in a circular pattern. The study focused on understanding canopy gap attributes and vegetation compositional differences across the mangrove canopy gap succession in the Andaman Islands. The hypothesis was that canopy gaps within the monodominant mangrove forests facilitate a greater number of species to establish in the early gap recovery stage. The species richness declines over time as plants with special adaptations to thrive in the seaward mangrove zones outcompete others. The study revealed that disturbances play a crucial role in determining species richness and composition in many ecosystems. This small-scale disturbance is crucial for maintaining large-scale demographic patterns in the plant communities. We investigated canopy gap attributes and vegetation recruitment by assessing 20 canopy gaps in each of two age categories: New Canopy Gaps (16 years old) and Recovering Canopy Gaps (715 years old) across six sites in the Andaman Islands. Each canopy gap was paired with a control plot in the intact forest. Canopy gap area ranged between 270m and 2463m. Water temperature increased with canopy openness, whereas water pH and salinity were not significantly influenced by the canopy gaps, the institute has said. The study revealed that plant species richness was highest in newly formed canopy gaps and declined with an increase in gap age. Both seedling and sapling densities were two-fold higher in the new canopy gaps than in the intact forest. Rhizophora apiculata Blume, a tall stilt mangrove, was the dominant species in all sampling categories. The study provided baseline information on the vegetation structural changes and species diversity among the regenerating canopy gaps and intact forests. Further, long-term canopy gap monitoring at varying size classes and fixed year intervals would provide crucial insight into mangrove canopy gap succession that helps in understanding mangrove recovery, following a disturbance event, the WII has said. Previous studies have already revealed how the clustered death of trees in a contiguous closed-canopy forest creates an opening that exposes the forest floor to increased sunlight, altering local microclimatic conditions, such as light availability, temperature, soil moisture, and nutrient dynamics compared to the adjacent intact forests. Our study shows that the canopy gaps likely caused by lightning disturbance in mangrove forests are acting as a nursery habitat for plant regeneration and enhancing structural heterogeneity in the vegetation. It allows a greater number of plant species to establish in the early gap regeneration stage, but the species richness declines in the later gap successional stage, indicating competitive exclusion by dominant species, which are better suited to the specific microhabitats, the WII researchers have said. The establishment of a canopy by the growing vegetation is likely to limit the light availability and hinder seedling establishment. Such an understanding of vegetation recovery following disturbance is critical for ecological restoration planning in mangrove ecosystems, the study has said. Our results suggest that only a few species found in early successional stages persist into the mature stage. This highlights the need to select appropriate species for mangrove restoration that suit the specific microenvironment. Overall, canopy gaps within contiguous mangrove stands serve as a regeneration niche for vegetation and promote structural heterogeneity in the mangrove forest. Further, we suggest that the long-term monitoring of vegetation recovery in the canopy gaps would be required to understand the mangrove succession at a finer scale, the researchers said.
ED raids 13 premises in Tripura, Bengal and Maharashtra over alleged fake govt tender racket
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Agartala, Nov 5 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted search and seizure operations at 13 premises across Tripura, West Bengal and Maharashtra in connection with an alleged fake government tender racket operated through a fictitious entity named the 'Directorate of Higher Education'. The central probe agency said on Thursday that the searches were carried out under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, targeting individuals and entities allegedly linked to the racket. The searches were conducted by the ED's Agartala Sub-Zonal office on Wednesday, in connection with an ongoing money-laundering investigation arising from FIR registered at Capital Complex Police station in Agartala, the probe agency said in a statement. It said that the FIR was registered on the complaint of Nagpur based M/s S.K. Sales Corporation, against Abhishek Chandra, a Tripura cadre IAS officer, and co-conspirators, alleging that the firm was fraudulently induced to pay Earnest Money Deposits (EMDs) of around Rs 14.55 crore between September 2024 and February 2025 against purported tenders of the of Tripura government in the mid-day meal and power sectors, which were never floated. The offences registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, relating to criminal conspiracy, criminal breach of trust, cheating, cheating by personation and forgery, are scheduled offences under the PMLA, 2002. Accordingly, the ED recorded an ECIR (Enforcement Case Information Report) and initiated investigation under the PMLA, 2002. Investigation has revealed that Abhishek Chandra (presently under suspension) represented himself as the officer controlling tender processes in the Tripura government and introduced the complainant to one Utpal Kumar Chowdhury as the official responsible for processing payments. The EMDs were paid through demand drafts in favour of 'Directorate of Higher Education', which was, in fact, a proprietary concern of Utpal Kumar Chowdhury bearing a name deceptively similar to the genuine government department. Forged tender notices and work orders were allegedly used, and a joint venture with Krishna Chakraborty, represented by her husband Sudip Paul, was used to structure the collection of funds. Partial 'refunds' were made at critical junctures to sustain the confidence of the victim and induce further payments. The ED said that the funds credited into the fictitious entity's accounts were allegedly layered within days, and in some instances within 24 hours, through a network of shell entities, several of which are registered in the names of domestic staff and associates of Utpal Kumar Chowdhury. The proceeds of crime were allegedly utilised for acquisition of immovable properties, including flats in a housing project and a residential property in Mumbai's Shivaji Park in the names of family members of Abhishek Chandra, as well as for foreign travel and luxury goods. Funds were also allegedly routed through an alleged hawala conduit based in Kolkata. The ED is already investigating Utpal Kumar Chowdhury and others, arising out of five FIRs registered in West Bengal and Tripura, wherein the same fictitious entity and modus operandi were used to defraud multiple victims of an aggregate amount exceeding Rs 44 crore. In that case, provisional attachment orders on January 22, 2026 and July 31, 2026, have already been issued. The search proceedings were conducted in the residential premises of Abhishek Chandra and hawala operators and also in the office premises of several companies/entities connected to the money trail, the ED statement said. During the course of search proceedings, voluminous documentary evidences of hawala transactions, several high value property details and other evidences indicating suspicious control over corporate entities were found and seized. Digital devices and records belonging to various accused persons crucial to the current investigation were also seized. Further investigation is underway.
Security beefed up in Ayodhya amid last minute 'Deepotsav' preparations
Digital Desk | Ayodhya, Nov 5 (AINS) Ahead of the Diwali festival, security has been strengthened in Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya as preparations are underway in full swing for the upcoming 'Deepotsav' celebrations in the sacred temple town. The 2026 edition of Deepotsav in Ayodhya is set to offer a unique combination of tradition and modern technology, with a series of immersive presentations designed to attract the younger generation. In view of the celebrations, a key briefing was held by the district administration and police department at Ram Katha Park on Thursday, where Additional Director General (ADG) (Ayodhya Range) Praveen Kumar, Ayodhya District Magistrate Shashank Tripathi and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gaurav Grover issued necessary instructions to officials to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the event. Speaking to reporters, ADG Praveen Kumar said: There are a series of events here during the Hindu month of Kartik. Everyone remains vigilant regarding security as a large number of devotees visit Ayodhya. The focus of today's briefing was to conduct the event through a proper coordination between locals, the administration and the police. We will use drones and other technologies for surveillance during the event, he added, assuring that the celebrations will be successfully conducted with the coordination of the Ayodhya residents. Apart from the presence of police personnel on the ground, security arrangements of the event are also being monitored from the control room, through CCTV cameras. NSG commandos and the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) will also maintain strict vigil throughout the celebrations, officials said. Meanwhile, preparations for the 'Deepotsav' are in their final stages, with artisans from Kolkata and Kanpur putting the finishing touches on the chariot of Lord Ram. One of the artisans, Sanjay Gupta, told IANS, The Ram Rath is being constructed, on which (artists dressed as ) Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Lord Laxman, and Lord Hanuman will ride to the consecration site. It is 80 per cent per cent ready. The remaining 20 per cent will be completed today. Tableaux are being prepared at Ayodhya's KS Saket PG College ground ahead of the 'Deepotsav', showcasing scenes from the Ramayana, depicting the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047', the BrahMos missile and development across Uttar Pradesh. Speaking on the 'Deepotsav' celebrations, former Babri Masjid litigant Iqbal Ansari highlighted the significance of Diwali festival in the temple town. Diwali is a festival whose joy is celebrated across the country and the world. It is celebrated with even greater enthusiasm in Ayodhya because Lord Ram resides here. When Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya, the entire city was decorated. Even today, on Diwali, it feels as though Lord Ram himself is returning, and people will welcome him with lamps. This is the beauty of Ayodhya, he told IANS.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 5 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, announced an alternative route for land procurement for new and proposed industrial units, balancing the interests of the investors, landowners and other stakeholders soon after unveiling the new industrial policy for the state The Chief Minister said that the new land procurement route to be adopted by the state government led by him will be totally different from what was pursued either by the Left Front government or by the Trinamool Congress government. According to him, the principal operative part of the land procurement policy of the state government led by him will be direct land purchase from the landowners first by the state government and thus create a land bank in the state. Subsequently, the required land from that land bank will be handed over for the new and proposed industrial project, claimed the Chief Minister. The Left Front government followed the policy of forceful land acquisition from landowners for industrial projects, which we are strongly against. The Trinamool Congress played no role in land procurement for new industries, which acted as a negative factor for attracting big-ticket investments. We will not adopt any of these two policies, and instead the state government will directly purchase land from the landowners, he further claimed. He also said that besides the proposed land bank to be created from the land directly purchased from the landowners, the state government will also provide land for new industrial projects from the land available at the existing industrial parks in the state and from the clusters of erstwhile encroached land recovered by the state government. He said that already in the first six months of the new state government led by him, land had already been handed over to 33 business groups. We are well settled to meet the land requirement for new industrial units, the Chief Minister said. Industry and economic observers too feel that the policy of the state government directly purchasing the land from the landowners and subsequently handing over that land for new industrial units was the need of the hour. In a state like West Bengal where the land-holding pattern is extremely fragmented, attracting big ticket investment will never be possible without the state government playing a role in land procurement, said city-based economist Probir Mukherjee. He added that forceful land acquisition can be counterproductive, as it happened in the cases of Singur and Nandigram during the Left Front regime. The new land policy adopted by the state government will be ideal as it maintains a balance between the interests of investors, land-owners and other stakeholders, said Mukherjee.
A decomposed body of an unidentified man was discovered in a luxury car parked in a garage in Kolkata's Kasba area on Thursday. Police were alerted by a foul smell and found the body on the driver's seat of a dust-covered, number-plate-less vehicle. The Homicide Squad has launched an investigation to identify the deceased and determine the circumstances of death.
Bengal govt unveils new industrial policy; incentives for industrialists announced
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 5 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, on Thursday unveiled the states new industrial policy and announced a host of incentives for attracting new investments in various schemes ranging from power tariff to employers contribution in Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and from stamp duty exemption to state government assistance in human resource development (HRD). As per the new industrial policy, electricity tariff exemption will be provided for new investments in both the manufacturing and services sector for up to five years. The state government will also provide financial assistance for rent on leased premises for setting up new units. In the micro-small-medium enterprises (MSMEs) segment, the state government will provide loans at affordable interest rates and also help in the implementation of new technologies. The financial assistance will be more in the case of new investment proposals in the industrially backward sub-divisions in the state. In case of mega projects, where 50 jobs will be created per acre, the state government will provide assistance in the construction of roads and ensuring water and electricity connections at the earliest. The state government also proposed stamp-duty exemptions on land for industrial projects and assistance in human resource development. The new industrial policy also proposes 100 per cent duty-free for educational institutions or hospitals run from the corporate social responsibility (CSR) corpus, provided the industry house concerned invests at least Rs 100 crore behind that education and medical project. The most attractive of the different incentive proposals was as regards to the state government assistance in employers contribution in EPF, with a focus on generating employment for people from the transgender community. In the MSMEs segment, the state government will bear the entire employers contribution to EPF for women and transgender employees for up to 10 years. In case of male employees in the MSME segment, the state government will bear 50 per cent of the employers contribution for the same period. In cases of units with more than 200 employees, the state government will bear 75 per cent of the employer's contribution for female and transgender employees and 50 per cent for male employees. In large units and mega projects with at least 200 employees in priority areas and at least 400 employees elsewhere, 50 per cent of the employers contribution in EPF will be borne by the state for up to five years. Employment will have to be created in the case of expansion of old industrial units. In case of investment in plant and machinery, the total assistance limit for general units will be 100 per cent. In thrust sector units, it will be 110 per cent, and in priority sectors, it will be 120 per cent. However, assistance will be provided gradually after the beginning of production. The new industrial policy has also fixed the deadlines for clearances for new industrial units. According to it, all applications should be made through a single-window portal, where the certificate of intent will be granted within 30 days, and the certificate of eligibility will be granted within 45 days from the beginning of production.
Petrol and diesel prices varied across Indian cities on October 3, as global crude crossed $100 amid Middle East tensions, while state-run oil companies kept national average fuel rates largely stable.
Angad Bedi recalls Anushka Sharma sharing a hearty laugh with Virat Kohli in birthday post
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 5 (IANS) Actor Angad Bedi penned a heartfelt note for cricketer Virat Kohli on his birthday. The Tiger Zinda Hai actor called him The King and praised his contribution to Indian cricket. Taking to social media, Instagram, Angad shared a heartfelt birthday message for Virat and wished him a blessed and peaceful year ahead. He also praised the cricketer for his passion and dedication towards the game, saying that his journey would continue to inspire future generations. In his birthday post, Angad wrote, Happy birthday to 'THE KING' @virat.kohli have a blessed and a peaceful year. May you continue to serve Indian cricket with as much passion and gutso so that the future generation learns and embodies your belief and hardwork. He further said that Virat's name would always feature among the legends of the game. Whenever there will be a mention of the legends of the game.. your name will be right up there!! he added. Angad Bedi also shared a carousel of pictures featuring himself and wife Neha Dhupia posing with Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma. One of the photographs captured Anushka sharing a hearty laugh with Virat, offering a glimpse of their cheerful moment together. The couple twinned in blue as they posed alongside Angad and Neha. Actress Juhi Babbar also extended warm birthday wishes to cricketer Virat Kohli, praising his passion, discipline and determination to constantly raise the bar. She also added a playful note, jokingly asking Virat to play a little less when competing against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Happpyyy Birthdayyy @imVkohli So much passion, so much discipline, and that incredible hunger to keep raising the bar every single time. On the aside Virat, its ok to play a little less, when your playing against KKR ..!!! Wishing you lots of happiness, good health and many more unforgettable moments on and off the field!! Jay, Juhi, Jahnavi and Arjun, she wrote. Virat Kohli turned 38 on November 5 and received warm birthday wishes from several celebrities and well-known personalities on social media.
Indias premium housing drives market recovery as sales rise 6 pc in Jan-Sep: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 5 (IANS) Home sales across India's seven major residential markets rose 6 per cent year-on-year to 2,14,562 units during January-September 2026, reversing the 12 per cent decline recorded in the corresponding period of 2025, led by demand for premium housing, a report said on Thursday. The report from JLL said that recovery was led decisively by premium housing with apartments priced at Rs 1 crore and above posting 23 per cent Y-o-Y growth and capturing 72 per cent of total sales during the period, up from 62 per cent a year earlier. The recovery was driven by sustained urban migration, upgrades to infrastructure, and shifting lifestyle preferences among homebuyers, the report noted. Developers continued to align new supply with the prevailing premium-led demand pattern, with residential launches across the top seven cities rising 15 per cent YoY to 2,59,425 units during JanuarySeptember 2026. The sub-Rs 1 crore mass housing segment continued to lose ground, with sales falling 23 per cent YoY as affordability pressures and a continued shift in buyer preference toward larger, higher-specification homes reshaped the demand mix. Sales momentum has been led decisively by the Rs 1.5-3 crore segment, which grew 54 per cent year-on-year, while developers have matched this demand with a massive 70 per cent increase in launches, said Siva Krishnan, Senior Managing Director and Head of Residential Services, India, JLL. Sales in the third quarter rose 12 per cent quarter-on-quarter to 76,181 units, led by Hyderabad with 70 per cent growth, followed by Kolkata at 28 per cent and Bengaluru at 13 per cent. Sales declined marginally in Delhi-NCR and Mumbai, by 5 per cent and 2 per cent respectively. Although market dynamics have shifted, with homebuyers placing greater emphasis on quality, location, and amenities, the core demand drivers remain unchanged. Buyers' growing preference for projects by established developers known for superior specifications, prime locations, and reliable delivery timelines points to a more mature home buying audience in India, the report noted.
SMPA Senior Deputy Manager Recruitment 2026
Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPA) has released Notification No. P&IR/13/2/2026/4396 for the post of Senior Deputy Manager. Eligible candidates can apply online at onlinevacancy.shipmin.nic.in from 06 November 2026 to 05 December 2026.
Todays Gold Rate in India November 5: Gold prices up in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across metro cities on November 5
Six years on, Bengal police arrest Abhishek Banerjee aide in 2020 Nadda convoy attack
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 5 (IANS) The West Bengal Police arrested a youth Trinamool Congress leader in connection with the attack on the convoy of then Bharatiya Janata Party national president J.P. Nadda in South 24 Parganas district on December 10, 2020, the police said on Thursday. The arrested man, identified as Imran Hasan, was the Youth Trinamool Congress president of the Magrahat (Paschim) Assembly constituency. He is said to be a close aide of the Trinamool Congress (Mamata Banerjee faction) general secretary and Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee. Hasan was arrested by personnel of Usti police station, under the Diamond Harbour Police District, from the Deula area on the intervening night of Wednesday and Thursday, a district police official said. He will be produced before a district court later on Thursday. The prosecution is expected to seek his police custody for further interrogation. Apart from the attack on Naddas convoy, Hasan is facing allegations of threatening voters ahead of the 2021 and 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, torturing BJP leaders and workers in Magrahat (Paschim), and vandalising the houses of leaders and workers associated with the BJP, the official said. Hasan is the seventh person arrested in connection with the attack, which took place nearly six years ago. The police had earlier arrested six people: Tausif Ahmed Mollah alias Bachchu, Arif Hossain, Anisur Rahman, Sanjeev Mondal, Ripon Sheikh and Jahangir Khan. Investigators are examining whether more people were involved in the incident, the district police official said. Nadda, who was then the BJPs national president, had visited Diamond Harbour in December 2020 as part of the partys campaign ahead of the 2021 Assembly elections. The then West Bengal BJP president, Dilip Ghosh, was travelling in the same vehicle as Nadda. The convoy came under attack twice while proceeding towards Diamond Harbour, first near Sarisha and then at Falta. The BJP had alleged that Trinamool Congress activists were behind the attacks. BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya, whose vehicle was part of the convoy, was injured in the incident. The attack had triggered a political confrontation between the BJP and the ruling Trinamool Congress. The BJP had accused the state government of failing to ensure security for its leaders, while the Trinamool Congress had rejected the allegations.
SC asks TMC leader Chattopadhyay to approach Calcutta HC over rebel MLAs' disqualification
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 5 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Thursday declined to entertain a plea filed by senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sovandeb Chattopadhyay seeking disqualification of 10 rebel party MLAs, including Leader of Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee, under the anti-defection law, and asked him to approach the Calcutta High Court. A Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi observed that the appropriate remedy at this stage would be to approach the Calcutta High Court and granted liberty to the petitioner to file an appropriate petition before it. The apex court also requested the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court to place the matter before a Division Bench for expeditious consideration. During the hearing, counsel appearing for Chattopadhyay submitted that the disqualification petitions had been filed on July 8 and that nearly five months had elapsed without a decision. The counsel argued that the issue was covered by the Supreme Court's earlier directions and sought an early hearing by a Division Bench of the High Court to avoid further rounds of intra-court appeals. Dictating the order, the CJI Kant-led Bench observed that the petitioner should take recourse to the Calcutta High Court and accordingly disposed of the petition at this stage, granting liberty to file an appropriate petition before the High Court. The writ petition, filed by veteran TMC legislator Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, had sought directions for the disqualification of 10 rebel MLAs, including Ritabrata Banerjee and former Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) Mayor Firhad Hakim, under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution. It had also sought directions against the Speaker of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, Rathindra Bose, for failing to decide the disqualification petitions within the timeframe indicated by the Supreme Court. This was the second time Chattopadhyay had approached the apex court over the issue. In September, he moved the Supreme Court seeking the disqualification of the 10 MLAs after the Speaker failed to take a decision on the petitions submitted by the Mamata Banerjee-led faction. On September 28, a Bench of CJI Surya Kant, and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana had disposed of the earlier petition, expressing the hope that the Speaker would decide the disqualification proceedings within three months. The apex court had observed that the three-month period was due to expire on October 8, and expressed confidence that the Speaker would take an appropriate decision within the stipulated timeframe. However, with no decision communicated on the disqualification petitions, Chattopadhyay approached the Supreme Court again. Apart from Ritabrata Banerjee and Firhad Hakim, the other MLAs against whom disqualification was sought include Sandipan Saha, Arup Roy, Seuli Saha, Akhruzzaman, Sabina Yeasmin, Rathin Ghosh, Biplab Mitra and Javed Ahmed Khan. The disqualification proceedings stem from an internal party dispute in the Trinamool Congress, with the Mamata Banerjee-led faction seeking action against the 10 legislators under the anti-defection provisions.
Bengal BJP plans to retain over 50 pc of old faces in Kolkata, Howrah civic polls
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 5 (IANS) The West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party is planning to retain more than 50 per cent of its existing candidates for the upcoming Kolkata and Howrah municipal corporation elections, a senior party leader said on Thursday. Leaders and workers who joined the BJP before and after the 2021 Assembly elections and have established popularity in their respective areas will also be considered for candidature in the remaining seats, he said. However, the state leadership will have to obtain clearance from the party's central leadership before finalising the list of candidates. There is speculation that the civic elections in Kolkata and Howrah may be held in the third week of December. The election notification is expected after Kali Puja on November 8, prompting the BJP to complete its candidate selection process by November 15. The party has already received applications from aspiring candidates. State leaders are now visiting different mandals to seek feedback from grassroots workers on the prospective candidates. This exercise is expected to be completed by November 11. The feedback will subsequently be placed before the state committee. The party's core committee, along with the election committees for the Kolkata and Howrah municipal corporations, will then finalise the names. BJP central observer Sunil Bansal will also attend the meeting, the senior leader said. The BJP is exercising caution in candidate selection this time to avoid discontent within its organisational ranks. State president Samik Bhattacharya had earlier said that preference would be given to workers who had maintained a long association with the party and contributed to its organisational activities. He had made it clear that merely joining the BJP shortly before the elections would not guarantee a councillor's ticket. However, organisational seniority will not be the sole criterion. The party will also consider a candidate's acceptance among local residents, personal image, public outreach and prospects in the constituency, the leader said. The BJP is attaching considerable importance to the Kolkata and Howrah civic elections. Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar has been entrusted with overseeing the Kolkata polls, with Raju Banerjee as co-in-charge. State Commerce and Industries Minister Tapas Roy is the convener, while MLA Ritesh Tiwari is the co-convener. The state leadership is working on the final selection process before forwarding its recommendations to Bansal, who is overseeing the municipal corporation elections. Rajya Sabha MP Rahul Sinha, who is in charge of the Howrah civic polls, will also submit his proposed list of candidates to the party's central leadership for consideration.
Zoho launches restaurant POS platform in India, offers free plan for small businesses
Zoho has launched its restaurant POS platform in India, offering free access to outlets with annual billing of up to Rs 12 lakh, with Kolkata-based Asha Sweets becoming its first customer.
MassArt secretary arrested in Durga Puja ticket scam case in Kolkata
A week back former Trinamool era minister Indranil Sen was arrested byKolkata Police in the same case
Gold and silver prices today, 5 November: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
Gold prices continued to rise in early trade on November 5 as the US dollar weakened to a more than one-month low.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 5 (IANS) The cash worth Rs 1,02,79,000, which was recovered by the police from a party office of the Trinamool Congress at Sarisha under Diamond Harbour Police district in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, was actually planted by the police administration, alleged the party's general secretary and Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee. The Diamond Harbour Police had claimed that they got information about the huge cash at the Sarisha party office during the interrogation of Abhishek Banerjees aide, Sumit Roy, who is currently in police custody in relation to a multi-crore soil-theft case registered at Kalitala-Ashuti Police Station under the jurisdiction of the same police district. However, rubbishing the police's claims, Banerjee issued a social media post late Wednesday night claiming that the cash was planted deliberately at the said party office, which was allegedly vandalised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-backed goons six months back. The deliberate planting of fake and fabricated evidence at a property vandalised six months ago by BJP goons, which subsequently became a scene of crime under police investigation, is a brazen attempt to subvert justice, manipulate the investigation and misuse the machinery of law, claimed the Diamond Harbour MP in his social media post. In his social media post, Abhishek Banerjee cautioned that those responsible for this alleged conspiracy of planting the cash at the property will ultimately be held accountable. Let this be an unequivocal warning to those orchestrating this sinister conspiracy and those acting at their behest: You will be held personally accountable for every act of fabrication, manipulation and abuse of authority, said Banerjee. He also warned the police administration not to mistake political patronage, official position or the misuse of police powers for immunity from prosecution. The law will catch up with every individual involved, regardless of rank, position or political affiliation. Prepare yourselves to face the full force of the law. There will be no compromise, no retreat and no escape from legal accountability, Banerjee added. On Monday, although the Diamond Harbour Police District confirmed that the party office -- where the cash was recovered -- belonged to the Trinamool Congress, it did not clarify who was actually responsible for running the office. It is still unclear why this huge amount of cash was kept in the Trinamool Congress party office and where it came from. The police are trying to gather more information about the source of this money. However, the police's initial probe has found that it is related to the case of soil theft registered at Kalitala-Ashuti police station.
Party writes to electoral authorities and KMC Commissioner, alleging that changes to maps and booth details deprived it of an opportunity to file objections and appeals
East Bengal went down 1-4 to Hwacheon KSPO of South Korea in their second AFC Women's Champions League 2026-27 group match at the Kishore Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata
Kolkata woman loses 1.2 crore to cyber fraud
Doctor halts op for lunch, 50-yr-old dies at Howrah hosp
Bengal: INS Netaji Subhas completes Yoga course for Agniveers
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 4 (IANS) The first batch of Agniveers who were not retained after four years in service completed an 8-week certified Yoga Course conducted in accordance with the programme at INS Netaji Subhas, the Indian Navy's base in Kolkata, on Wednesday. The programme focused on promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, discipline and resilience. Certificates were awarded to the participants upon successful completion, the Navy said. This happened barely a few hours before the Union Cabinet approved the extension of Agniveers by two years. While the decision to continue in service will rest entirely with the individual, officials believe that a large number of them will do so. Taking a significant decision today, the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Shri Narendra Modi has approved a two-year Second Tour of Duty for Agniveers under Agnipath. I sincerely thank PM Modi for taking the decision of an additional 2-year Second Tour of Duty for Agniveers under the Agnipath scheme. This would also provide enrollment of all willing Agniveers as regular soldiers after the tenure of 4/6 years, who meet the selection criteria, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh posted on X. This decision is a continuation of long-term structural reforms of our defence forces, aimed at creating a younger, fitter, technologically equipped and future-ready military. It is not merely a recruitment policy; it is a way forward to prepare India's military for the changing character of warfare, he added. Over 18,300 Agniveers were to exit the armed forces over the next three months after completing their four-year term. Under the Agnipath scheme, soldiers are recruited for a four-year term, with a provision to retain only 25% of them in regular service for another 15 years. Before they are released, the soldiers, sailors and air warriors have been undergoing the yoga course and medical evaluations. The 18,300 personnel, who were to be released this year, account for three-fourths of the 24,400 recruits inducted into the Army, Air Force and Navy in the first round of recruitment. The first batch comprised around 19,000 Agniveers in the Army, 2,850 in the IAF and 2,550 in the Navy, according to official data. However, all three services have expressed satisfaction with the performance of Agniveers across roles and agreed to their retention. Officials had earlier said the scheme could be tweaked in the future to retain more Agniveers with specialised skills. The Army currently has around 270,000 Agniveers, the IAF around 27,000 and the Navy roughly 21,000, the officials said. The government had introduced the Agnipath model in 2022 in a marked departure from the military's decades-old recruitment system. The idea was to maintain a younger and fitter fighting force.
240 deaths till Sept due to extreme weather events in Bengal, finds study
4 call centres busted, 37 held
Animal-familiarisation campaign reaches schools
Patients forced out in New Town nursing homes landlord-tenant dispute
Cops dig up decomposed body of newborn
Police quiz MLA Kunal Ghosh for 90 minutes in Chorbagan row
IIT Kharagpur launches helpline to tackle cyberbullying
Cloud cover pushes max temp to 28.6C
AFC Women's CL: East Bengal Take a Beating But Stay in Knockout Race
East Bengal suffered a 1-4 defeat against South Korea's Hwacheon KSPO in their second AFC Women's Champions League group match in Kolkata. Despite an early lead through Fazila Ikwaput, Hwacheon dominated the second half, scoring three goals to secure the win. This loss puts East Bengal in a precarious position ahead of their final group match against DPR Korea's 4.25 SC.
