ICG rescues 20 seamen from stranded ship off Andhra coast
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) In a swift Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR) operation off the Andhra Pradesh Coast, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 20 crew members from the bulk carrier MV Sigma Pearl. The 179.90 metre long ship ran aground off Antravedi in the aftermath of Cyclone Arnab and sent out an SOS. On receiving an alert, ICG Ship Sujay and a helicopter executed a high-risk operation, managing to rescue all 20 crew members from the ship. The rescue operation took place in extremely bad weather. According to officials, the ship ran aground due to high seas and strong winds that lashed the Andhra coast as the Very Severe Cyclone made landfall early on Wednesday. The master of the vessel requested support after efforts to release the vessel failed. Preemptive measures, coastal monitoring, and Disaster Relief Team (DRT) deployment along the Andhra Pradesh coast ensured zero loss of life at sea, the ICG said. The MV Sigma Pearl was sailing under the Marshall Islands flag. It is a bulk carrier with a deadweight of 32,688 tonnes. It had sailed from Visakhapatnam on October 27, 2026, and marine tracking sites show its destination as For Orders. This means that the ship had no specific destination after departing Visakhapatnam. It was on the lookout for cargo and moving towards an area where there is a demand for bulk carriers. The condition of the ship is being ascertained. While it may not be carrying any cargo, it would have furnace oil in its tank and may also be carrying marine diesel. Authorities are in touch with the ship's management and owners to arrange for its salvage, an official said. The ICG has taken several measures even as Cyclone Arnab approached the coastline. Fishermen were directed to stay away from the sea, and there was constant monitoring to check for stragglers or stranded vessels. On October 29, 2026, a Coast Guard helicopter also carried out rescue operations in flooded areas of Odisha. A few weeks ago, the ICG helped a ship that was capsizing off the Paradip port. The ship was boarded, water was pumped out from its holds, and necessary repairs were carried out before it was taken under tow to Paradip. While saving lives at sea is crucial, the ICG also maintains close watch on oil spills and other pollution. It is the nodal agency to combat marine pollution in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Calcutta HC declines to intervene in case against KMC delimitation
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) The Calcutta High Court on Thursday refused to intervene in a case challenging the delimitation of wards under the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), which is scheduled to go for polls by the year-end. As per the draft delimitation proposal, the number wards under the KMC are slated to be increased to 209 from the current figure of 144. A petition was filed at the Calcutta High Court earlier this month challenging the basis of the delimitation proposals, where the petitioner claimed that the delimitation exercise was not conducted as per the prescribed rules. The matter came up for hearing on Thursday at the bench of Justice Hiranmaya Bhattacharya and at the end of the hearing his bench refused to intervene in the matter for the time being. However, Justice Bhattacharya did not reject the petition altogether and instead directed both the West Bengal government and petitioners to file their respective affidavits in the matter. As per the court's order on Thursday, the state government should file its affidavit in the matter within the next four weeks, and the petitioner will file its counter affidavit in the matter within two weeks from the time the state government will file its affidavit. The matter will come up for hearing again after six weeks following which the court will receive affidavits from both the parties. The polling for seven urban civic bodies in West Bengal, including that of KMC is likely in December this year. Before that, complications arose over the ward realignment. Many thought that the impasse would be resolved after Thursday's hearing. Now with the court refusing to intervene in the matter for now, the decision on ward realignment remains in place. The petition challenging the delimitation had claimed that reasonable adjustments were not made in the redrawing of ward boundaries and factors like population, geographical location and administrative consistency of the wards were not properly considered in the delimitation process. The petitioner also questioned the rationale behind the delimitation.
ANC geared up to host maiden BIMSTEC maritime security exercise
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) has geared up for the first edition of the BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise that will start at Sri Vijaya Puram (formerly Port Blair) on October 30, 2026. Assets from partner navies - Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand - will participate in the exercise. Bhutan and Nepal will also send representatives as these landlocked nations are heavily dependent on the Bay of Bengal for EXIM trade. The exercise will be held from October 30 to November 2. It will unfold in two phases. A harbour phase of professional exchanges and planning will build trust and understanding, and a sea phase will sharpen interoperability on the water. Together they turn a common vision for a safe, secure and stable Bay into coordinated action at sea, the ANC has said. The goals of the exercise are to enhance maritime domain awareness (MDA), build operational coordination across the Bay of Bengal, strengthen regional security cooperation, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), and responses to cross-border maritime crimes as well as marine pollution due to oil and hazardous material spills. Over the years, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has emerged as a vibrant and dynamic regional organisation. Member states share the vision of a free, peaceful, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean Region (IOR). They also pursue the goal of a prosperous, resilient and open Bay of Bengal Region under the BIMSTEC Charter and the Bangkok BIMSTEC Vision 2030. The crisis in the Middle East, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, has highlighted how the established right of transit passage, enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), is being violated. States bordering straits shall not hamper transit passage, and there shall be no suspension of transit passage, Article 44 of UNCLOS says. The Bay of Bengal connects South Asia to Southeast Asia, and a large share of global energy and trade flows through it. BIMSTEC serves as a bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia, with five members from South Asia Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka and two from Southeast Asia Myanmar and Thailand. BIMSTEC nations have naturally attached high priority to maritime cooperation given the Bay of Bengals centrality to the organisation. They have taken initiatives to strengthen maritime connectivity through the BIMSTEC Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation that was signed at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok in April 2025. Maritime security cooperation has focused on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), Oil Pollution Response, and related areas. The BIMSTEC Expert Group on Maritime Security Cooperation has finalised guidelines for maritime law enforcement agencies to ensure effective coordination during interactions at sea. Under the MDA, there is a proposal to conclude the BIMSTEC White Shipping Agreement. India will soon present a draft for the consideration of the member states. Recognising the severe economic and environmental consequences of marine oil spills, BIMSTEC has finalised guidelines for a coordinated regional oil spill response. Proposed initiatives include the development of a regional contingency plan, standardised emergency procedures, joint pollution response exercises, and capacity-building programmes to enhance preparedness. Regarding HADR in the maritime domain, the Expert Group on Maritime Security has finalised BIMSTEC guidelines on the maritime component of HADR. The Bay of Bengal is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. A Plan of Action on Comprehensive Disaster Management has been finalised. Four editions of the BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise have been held to strengthen joint operational capabilities. India has also proposed establishing a BIMSTEC Disaster Management Centre to serve as a focal point for coordinating regional HADR operations. BIMSTEC has also been pursuing collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) to enhance disaster response and resilience in the Bay of Bengal region. The Bay of Bengal binds our region's security, trade and prosperity. The inaugural BIMSTEC Maritime Security Exercise brings partner navies and agencies together at Sri Vijaya Puram. Together, we chart the course for collective maritime wellbeing, the ANC has said.
Bengal: DGMA and MRC discuss initiatives for more sustainable maritime development
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) The Marine Research Centre (MRC) presented its Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) platform during an online meeting with the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA). The meeting was chaired by Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Maritime Administration, to review the progress of collaborative initiatives under the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the DGMA and the MRC, and discuss the way forward. According to the DGMA, the discussions covered key areas of cooperation, including Underwater Radiated Noise (URN) Management, Biofouling Management, Sediment Management and MSP. It also proposed initiatives relating to maritime capacity building, stakeholder outreach and coastal community engagement. URN management deals with reducing sound energy emitted by ships and offshore activities to protect marine ecosystems, navigation, and communication for marine life. Countries around the world are taking measures to reduce the sound for the well-being of marine life. Some ports also offer discounts to ships that are quieter. The MRC's MSP platform has potential applications in predictive modelling, marine environmental assessment and informed planning of maritime activities. Opportunities to advance the proposed collaborative initiatives by leveraging technical expertise, innovative technologies and synergies with ongoing maritime sustainability and coastal management programmes were also explored during the meeting. According to the MRC, Marine Spatial Planning is a comprehensive, science-based approach to managing marine and freshwater resources. It integrates ecological, economic, and social considerations to optimise the sustainable use of ocean spaces, ensuring that human activities and natural ecosystems coexist in a balanced manner. By systematically allocating marine areas for various uses, MSP enhances maritime security, supports environmental conservation, and facilitates economic activities. It plays a crucial role in addressing geopolitical and sustainability challenges, particularly in regions like the Indian Ocean, the Centre has said. It has highlighted developments in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) that have turned it into a key arena for geopolitical and geo-strategic interactions in the 21st century. Nations both within and outside the region are deploying strategic assets there. Marine Spatial Planning is crucial for governing and managing challenges and opportunities in marine and freshwater systems. By mapping resources accurately, addressing security and sustainability concerns, and deploying policy and technology interventions, MSP enables efficient exploitation of these vast systems, the MRC has said. The DGMA has said that the engagement reflects its continued commitment towards promoting technology-driven solutions, strengthening marine environmental management and fostering collaborative initiatives for sustainable maritime development.
NHRC flags human rights concerns over parading of three persons in south Kolkata
The three persons, arrested for allegedly forcing a teenage boy, his father, and a friend to walk naked at Sarsuna in south Kolkata after the boy was caught kissing his girlfriend, were paraded through the area shirtless and in shorts by police
Kolkata Police Seize 110 Kilograms of Illegal Firecrackers Ahead of Kali Puja, One Arrested
Kolkata police have confiscated 110 kg of illegal firecrackers and arrested a 19-year-old ahead of the Kali Puja festival. Kolkata Police Seize 110 Kilograms of Illegal Firecrackers Ahead of Kali Puja, One Arrested
Tripura inaugurates first Tea Auction Centre to boost marketing, ensure better prices for growers
Digital Desk | Agartala, Oct 29 (IANS) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday inaugurated the states first tea auction centre in Agartala, making it the second state in the Northeast after Assam, and the fifth in the country, to have such a facility. The Tripura Tea Development Corporation Limited (TTDCL) Chairman, Samir Ranjan Ghosh, said the tea auction centre aims to strengthen the marketing network for Tripura tea, reduce transportation costs and the time required to sell tea consignments, and help growers secure competitive prices for their produce. State Industries and Commerce Minister Santan Chakma attended the inauguration ceremony, held at the Pandit Nehru Complex in Gurkhabasti, on the outskirts of Agartala city. The foundation stone for the tea auction centre was laid in March 2024 as part of efforts to strengthen the states tea industry and improve marketing facilities for local producers. According to Ghosh, Tripura currently has 54 large tea gardens and around 2,800 small tea growers, collectively producing approximately 9 million to 10 million kg of tea annually. He said the state had so far depended on auction centres outside Tripura to market a substantial portion of its tea production, with nearly 60 per cent of the produce being sold through external auction facilities. The establishment of the new centre is expected to provide tea producers with more direct access to buyers, improve marketing opportunities for small tea growers and reduce the time required to sell tea consignments, he said. The TTDCL chairman said that selling a tea consignment currently takes around 44 days, but the corporation expects the new auction facility to reduce the time by approximately 40 per cent. To ensure the successful operation of the centre, the corporation has held several rounds of discussions with buyers and brokerage firms in Kolkata and Guwahati to encourage their participation in the Agartala tea auctions, Ghosh said. Several reputed brokerage firms and buyers from different parts of the country have already expressed interest in participating in the auctions, he added. The participation of buyers and brokers will be crucial to ensuring competitive bidding, strengthening market linkages and expanding the reach of Tripura tea, which has traditionally depended on external trading centres for a significant share of its sales. The new facility is also expected to improve coordination between tea producers, traders and buyers, while providing a more accessible platform for marketing locally produced tea. However, the long-term effectiveness of the auction centre will depend on sustained buyer participation, competitive bidding and the extent to which reductions in marketing time and transportation costs translate into better returns for tea growers. TTDCL Managing Director Rajesh Kumar Das, who was also present at the inauguration ceremony, described the occasion as a defining moment for the state's tea industry and its stakeholders, including growers, manufacturers, bought-leaf factory operators, tea estate owners, workers and traders. The Agartala Tea Auction Centre has been established with one clear purpose, to place the tea stakeholders of the state at the centre of a transparent, efficient and rewarding marketing system, Das said. At present, a major portion of Tripura's tea is transported to auction markets in Guwahati and West Bengal for sale, resulting in additional transportation expenses and higher marketing costs for producers. The establishment of an auction centre within the state is expected to facilitate better coordination between sellers and buyers, reduce transportation expenses and improve price realisation for tea producers and others associated with the sector. Tripura's 54 tea gardens include estates operated by the state-owned Tripura Tea Development Corporation Limited, the Tripura Cooperative Society and private owners. Alongside these large tea estates, around 2,800 small tea growers play a significant role in the state's tea industry, contributing nearly 30 per cent of its total tea production, which stands at approximately 90 lakh kg annually. More than 60 per cent of the state's tea production is currently marketed through auction centres outside Tripura, highlighting the importance of developing an effective local auction system. With the inauguration of the Agartala Tea Auction Centre, the state is seeking to strengthen its tea marketing infrastructure, reduce dependence on external auction markets and create better opportunities for growers to obtain competitive prices for their produce. The initiative is expected to provide a major boost to Tripura's tea industry by bringing key marketing activities closer to producers and creating a more efficient trading environment within the state.
It only takes one rumour: How a small trigger can lead to a deadly stampede
On October 17, a tragic stampede in Kolkata claimed 19 lives during the Durga Puja celebrations. The incident was caused by overcrowding, panic, and a misleading announcement about structural failure. Experts emphasize the importance of effective crowd management to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Investigators are examining various factors contributing to the disaster, including narrow exits and inadequate safety measures.
I-PAC raid row: SC reserves order on ED plea for CBI probe against Mamata Banerjee
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its order on a plea filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe and registration of an FIR against former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and senior police officials over alleged interference in search operations at the office of political consultancy firm Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) in Kolkata. A Bench of Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and N.V. Anjaria reserved its order on the limited question of whether the matter should be referred to the CBI or left to the newly elected West Bengal government to decide on the investigation. During the hearing, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Banerjee, argued that with a change in the government in West Bengal, there was no longer any impediment to a state-level decision on transferring the investigation to the CBI. He questioned the need for a judicial direction, submitting that the state government was competent to refer the matter to the Central agency on its own. The Justice Mishra-led Bench also questioned why the West Bengal government could not refer the matter to the CBI in the changed circumstances, observing that the situation prevailing at the time the ED approached the top court might no longer exist. However, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju, appearing for the ED, opposed leaving the matter to the state government, arguing that such a course could invite allegations of mala fide action. ASG Raju submitted that the matter involved allegations against not only the former Chief Minister but also senior police officers, making it necessary to ensure an independent and fair investigation. He further argued that since cross-cases were involved, the investigation should be entrusted to a single agency to ensure that both sides of the dispute were examined together. The Centres law officer maintained that an independent investigation was necessary to address concerns about the fairness of the probe and prevent allegations of collusion between the ED and the state government. The Justice Mishra-led Bench observed that Sibal's argument was that the state government could itself transfer the case to the CBI, without requiring an order from the Supreme Court. Responding to the submissions, Raju said the ED had approached the apex court seeking an independent investigation and that leaving the decision to the state government could give rise to further controversy over the manner in which the case was handled. The arguments concluded with the Supreme Court reserving its order on the limited issue. The matter arises from search operations conducted by the ED on January 8 at the I-PAC office and the residence of its co-founder, Pratik Jain, in connection with a money laundering probe linked to an alleged coal smuggling scam. The federal anti-money laundering agency has claimed that Banerjee, accompanied by police personnel and senior officials, entered the premises while the searches were underway and interfered with the investigation. The ED has sought registration of FIRs against Banerjee, the then West Bengal Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar and the then Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma, among others, besides seeking transfer of the probe to the CBI. Banerjee has denied the allegations, maintaining that she visited the premises to retrieve confidential and proprietary data belonging to the Trinamool Congress, which she claimed was linked to the party's electoral strategy. On January 15, the Supreme Court stayed FIRs registered by the West Bengal Police against ED officials in connection with the searches and directed the preservation of CCTV footage and other digital records relating to the premises. Earlier, the apex court had orally observed that alleged interference by a sitting Chief Minister in an ongoing investigation could put democracy in peril.
Kolkata Police seize 110 kg of banned firecrackers ahead of Kali Puja, youth held
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) The Kolkata Police have seized around 110 kg of banned firecrackers from an abandoned building in north Kolkata and arrested a 19-year-old youth ahead of Kali Puja, a senior police officer said on Thursday. Acting on a tip-off from secret sources, a team from Burrabazar police station raided the building at 1 NS Road in the early hours of Thursday and recovered the illegal fireworks. The arrested youth has been identified as Mohammad Taufiq, 19. The police have registered a suo motu case against him for allegedly storing firecrackers without the required licence or permit. Additional Commissioner of Kolkata Police's Detective Department, Kunal Agarwal, said the police were making continuous efforts to prevent the entry of illegal firecrackers into the city. According to the police, a team led by sub-inspector Uttam Kumar Halder was conducting patrol and search operations in the NS Road area at around 1.45 am when it searched the abandoned building. The officers found approximately 110 kg of banned fireworks packed in four large cardboard boxes. The entire consignment was seized, and Taufiq was arrested on the spot before being taken to Burrabazar police station. Preliminary investigations suggest the firecrackers had been stored in the building without any government licence or permit. Their presence in the densely populated commercial locality raised concerns over the risk of a possible accident, police said. A case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Explosive Substances Act, 1908. Investigators are now trying to establish the source of the seized firecrackers and determine whether other people were involved in their storage and distribution. The police are also examining whether the consignment was linked to a larger illegal fireworks network operating in the city. With Kali Puja approaching, the Kolkata Police are expected to intensify checks and raids to curb the storage and sale of prohibited firecrackers and prevent safety hazards during the festive season.
Karwa Chauth 2026: When Will the Moon Rise in Your City? Check Timings
Karwa Chauth 2026 is being observed on October 29. Check the expected moonrise time in Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Kolkata and other major cities.
Former Bengal minister Indranil Sen booked under seven BNS sections in Durga Puja pass scam
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) The Kolkata Police have registered a case under seven sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, against former West Bengal minister and singer-turned-politician Indranil Sen, who was arrested on Wednesday in connection with an alleged fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours. A senior city police official said the charges include Section 316 (criminal breach of trust), Sections 336(2) and 336(3) (forgery and forgery for cheating), Section 338 (forgery of valuable security and other specified documents), Section 318 (cheating), Section 61(2) (criminal conspiracy), and Section 340(2) (using a forged document or electronic record as genuine). According to preliminary findings, financial irregularities involving several crores of rupees allegedly took place between 2022 and 2025 in the name of UNESCO and Durga Puja celebrations through Mass Art Society, a corporate entity owned by Sen's wife, Madhuchhanda Sen, police sources said. Investigators have also found indications that the former minister allegedly withdrew substantial sums from various organisations in the name of UNESCO by using his influence, the sources added. Our sleuths are currently examining other angles in this massive financial forgery, including the floating and use of shell companies to divert funds, a city police official said. After his arrest on Wednesday evening, Sen was taken to the Kolkata Police headquarters at Lalbazar in central Kolkata, where investigators questioned him on the basis of documents seized during the probe. The interrogation continued until late at night. Police sources claimed that Sen repeatedly attempted to evade uncomfortable questions or gave inconsistent answers during questioning. The allegations are part of the ongoing investigation, and their veracity is yet to be established. The Kolkata Police and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have been conducting parallel investigations into the alleged scam involving passes for UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja tours. The city police arrested Sen after he emerged from the ED's Salt Lake office on the northern outskirts of Kolkata on Wednesday afternoon. He had undergone prolonged questioning by officials of the central agency in connection with the case. Investigators are examining the alleged financial transactions, the role of organisations involved and the possible use of shell companies to route funds. The probe is also seeking to establish how the alleged irregularities were carried out and whether other individuals or entities were involved.
Magnitude 5.1 earthquake reported in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Indranil Sens financial links with private event management entities also under scanner
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) Besides the alleged involvement of former West Bengal Minister, Indranil Sen, in an alleged fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours, Kolkata Police is also probing the financial links of a corporate entity owned by Sens wife Madhucchanda Sen, with a couple of event management entities when the singer-turned-politician was serving as the Minister of State for Information & Cultural Affairs. Insiders from the city police said that during Sens tenure as minister, an event management tender on behalf of the department worth Rs 53.46 crore was granted to an event management entity GIDI Creation. The administration, according to city police, then overlooked complaints that the tender was granted to that event management entity just because the firm, which did not have sufficient experience in the related field, was owned by a childhood friend of Sen. Later, as per information gathered by the Investigating Officers in the matter, GIDI Creation outsourced the work, for which the tender was granted to another event management entity Third Line Creation, which is completely inoperative now. At that point in time, GIDI Creations had transferred an amount of Rs 50.31 crore to the accounts of Third Line Creation. Subsequently, substantial funds were transferred to the Madhucchanda Sen-owned entity Mass Art Society, through which the UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja passes were sold. At the same time, city police insiders said, the accounts of two other entities namely ISCAPE and Myra, both owned by close relatives of Sen, are also under the scanner of the Investigating Officers. Both the Kolkata Police and Enforcement Directorate (ED) had been conducting parallel investigations in the alleged UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja passes scam. In fact, the cops of Kolkata Police arrested Sen after he came out of EDs Salt Lake office on the northern outskirts of Kolkata on Wednesday afternoon after facing a marathon interrogation by the central agency officials in the matter. Sen will be presented at a lower court in Kolkata later on Thursday and the Public Prosecutor will seek his police custody for further interrogation. The police are trying to track other beneficiaries in the alleged scam.
Kolkata Police Constable Mains Exam Date 2026 Out - Check Written Exam Schedule PDF
WBPRB has announced the Kolkata Police Constable and Lady Constable final written exam (Mains) for 29 November 2026, 12 noon to 1 PM. Check the tentative date, 3,734 posts, exam pattern, selection process, admit card status and official links.
Todays Gold Rate in India October 29: Gold prices up in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices remain steady across metro cities on October 29
Former Minister Indraneel Sen Arrested in Kolkata Over Durga Puja Pass Scam
Indraneel Sen, former West Bengal minister, arrested in connection with a Durga Puja pass scam; further inquiries expected in court. Former Minister Indraneel Sen Arrested in Kolkata Over Durga Puja Pass Scam
Rain lashes Bengal as Cyclone Arnab turns into depression
Kolkata: Rain and squally winds lashed parts of West Bengal on Thursday, October 29, as the very severe cyclonic storm Arnab weakened into a depression and lay centred over south Chhattisgarh and adjoining south Odisha. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the depression is likely to weaken to a well-marked low pressure by Thursday 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 .
Restaurant Week India 2026: Participating Kolkata restaurants, menus and prices
After its April pilot, Restaurant Week India returns with over 100 restaurants across 15-plus cities. In Kolkata, seven establishments are serving curated three-course menus, with organisers hoping to encourage diners to explore new cuisines and discover restaurants beyond their usual choices
'Dangerous for democracy,' Kiren Rijiju hits out at Naseeruddin Shah over 'Dimagi Naxal' boast
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has strongly rebuked veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah over latter boasting himself as 'proud Dimagi Naxal'. Rijiju also called him extremely harmful to India's democracy. The matter pertains to Naseeruddin Shah launching a scathing attack on the government, sharing a video of himself talking to the camera as he flaunted his badge of Dimagi Naxal, a term coined by Prime Minister Modi in his Independence Day address in August. Taking to X, Rijiju slammed the actor and said, I thought Naseeruddin Shah was just an ordinary actor. I used to respect & like him. I never knew that he was a dangerous urban Dimagi Naxal! I discovered his true character far too late. He is extremely harmful to India's democracy. In the video, Shah said, I say with pride, I am a Dimagi Naxal. Apart from Dimagi Naxal, I don't know what other titles the chowkidar has given to people like me, anti-national, tukde-tukde gang and what not. If there is any tukde-tukde gang in this country, then it is this illegitimate government. I want to ask this government a question. What else will you do to break the courage of our country's youth, to destroy the education system, and to put our democracy at risk? How much will you do? How far will you go? he said. First Jawaharlal Nehru University, then Satyajit Ray Film Institute, and now Jamia Millia. The atrocities that are being done on students will be remembered. Everything will be remembered, the actor added. The actor's statement comes after his earlier statement during the political row at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI). The actor has accused the BJP of political retaliation against dissenters and urged citizens to support the students. For the uninitiated, the political row at Kolkata's Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) erupted after clashes on September 27, 2026, between students and members of the RSS-linked Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat during a campus event. Subsequent protests and alleged attacks intensified tensions. Students demanded Vice-Chancellor Santosh Ajmera's resignation, accusing the administration of failing to protect them. The institute later suspended 6 students over alleged misconduct, a decision the students' union challenged. Actor Naseeruddin Shah and filmmakers Payal Kapadia and Anand Patwardhan backed the protesters. The BJP criticised the veteran actor's remarks, while the administration alleged that outside forces had politicised the agitation.
Oregon city declares October Bengali Heritage and Cultural Month during first Durga Puja celebration
CPI(M) to legally challenge govt's move to bar would-be teachers in Bengal from contesting polls
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) The CPI(M) leadership has decided to challenge any move by the West Bengal government to bar teachers recruited henceforth in the state-run schools from contesting any election for panchayats, municipal bodies, Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies. The challenge by the CPI(M) leadership comes amid an announcement by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday, saying that a new clause will be introduced in the recruitment rules of the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) barring would-be teachers from contesting polls. A proposal on this count was cleared at a meeting of the state cabinet on Wednesday. However, the Chief Minister, at the same time, made it clear that the clause will not be applicable to those serving teachers who are already elected public representatives. Reacting to the Chief Ministers announcement on this count, former CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member and senior advocate, Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya, said once this proposal is formally implemented in the recruitment rules of the WBSSC, he will take up the matter legally. It will not be easy to suppress the democratic rights of the common people. Any attempt to do this will be opposed legally, said Bhattacharya, also the former Mayor of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). He also said that the decision to bar teachers from contesting the polls is unconstitutional. So let the decision be officially implemented. I will take up the matter at the Calcutta High Court, said Bhattacharya. Even a section of the service teachers has opposed the idea and claimed that they do not subscribe to the Chief Ministers argument that the move to bar would-be teachers from contesting polls is aimed at depoliticising the education sector. Had the Chief Minister been serious about depoliticising the sector, he would have removed political persons from different education-related committees. But that did not happen. The laws and regulations related to education in West Bengal do not prevent schoolteachers from engaging in active politics. If this decision is implemented without changing that law, there will be obstacles from the legal angle, said a headmaster of a state-run higher secondary school, who refused to be named.
Women attending a Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata reportedly crowded the exit gate to protect their outfits and makeup from sudden rain, triggering a crush that killed 19 people, according to preliminary findings cited by a police officer on Thursday.
Arrested ex-Bengal Minister Indranil Sen to be produced in court today
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) Former West Bengal Minister Indranil Sen, who has been arrested by Kolkata Police in connection with an alleged fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours, will be presented at a lower court on Thursday, and the public prosecutor will seek his police custody for further interrogation. He was arrested on Wednesday evening. An insider from the city police said that first he will be taken for medical examination from the Kolkata Police headquarters, and thereafter he will be presented at the city court. A detailed interrogation of the former state minister is necessary to know about other beneficiaries not just in the fake Durga Puja pass scam, but also in other cases of financial irregularities where he got involved during his tenure as a member of the state cabinet during the previous regime. Hence, the public prosecutor will seek his custody, said an insider of the city police associated with the investigation against Sen. In fact, immediately after his arrest, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari gave a subtle hint when he said that other influential persons who were beneficiaries in the alleged scams in which Sen had been accused would not be spared. The CM also indirectly targeted his predecessor and the former West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, without directly naming the latter. Sen made his fortune taking advantage of his ministerial position and using his proximity to the former West Bengal Chief Minister. Sen and the former Chief Minister used to sing duets in government programmes. Surely, Sen is not the only one in the previous cabinet who had made his fortune using the ministerial position. The share surely had reached the higher levels. They will not be spared either. Just wait and watch, CM Adhikari said, reacting to Sens arrest. Kolkata Police and Enforcement Directorate (ED) were conducting parallel probes into the alleged fake Durga Puja pass scam. Sen was arrested on Wednesday evening as he came out of the EDs Salt Lake office in the northern outskirts of Kolkata after facing a marathon interrogation in the matter. Earlier this month, the ED issued a statement naming former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in connection with a transaction involving Sen-owned Octave Records. According to the agency, nearly Rs 30 lakh was allegedly transferred from the companys accounts to Banerjee through banking channels. Sen, however, maintained that the payment was made as royalty. Separately, a judicial inquiry commission constituted by the state government to investigate alleged institutional corruption during the previous Trinamool Congress regime has initiated an inquiry involving Sen. The commission is examining alleged multi-crore irregularities in the tendering process of the states Information and Cultural Affairs Department, where Sen had served as Minister of State. The inquiry is separate from the money laundering investigation being conducted by the ED
Gold prices extended their decline on October 29, with Comex gold slipping to $4,051 per ounce in early trade. In India, 24K gold stood at Rs 1,44,000 per 10 grams, while silver was priced at Rs 1,94,990 per kg.
RG Kar Case: Ex-Panihati civic chief sent to 2-day CBI custody
Kolkata: A court in Kolkata on Wednesday, October 28, remanded former chairman of Panihati Municipality, Somnath Dey, to two days of CBI custody in connection with alleged tampering of evidence in the RG Kar rape-murder case, a senior official of the central agency said. The Sealdah Court granted the Central Bureau of Investigations (CBI) plea 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 .
Arnab tail: Met predicts light rain in city today
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RG Kar case: 2-day CBI custody for former Panihati Municipality chairperson
Most Salt Lake puja clubs miss park-clear deadline
KMDA seeks Jadavpur University help for eco-friendly dredging at Rabindra Sarobar
Teacher attacked during morning walk in Siliguri
No frisking, no CCTV surveillance: MBBS exam shows up pre-RG Kar movement faults
On makeover mode: KIFF set to get new trophy, Sandip Ray redesigns logo
CM reviews safety prep for upcoming festivals
HC calls notices abrupt, six more New Market hotels reopen
No QR code this time, choose green crackers from 1,700 approved makers
First In Bengal: ICMR Pat For IPGMER Endocrinology Department
New KMC ward list: 8 have 20,000+ voters, 12 fewer than 10,000
Nagaland: Army raises tempo for Late Capt N Kenguruse football tournament
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 28 (IANS) The Assam Rifles under the Army's Spear Corps have started preparations for the 10th edition of the Late Capt N Kenguruse, Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) Memorial Football Tournament, scheduled to take place at the IG Stadium in Kohima, Nagaland, between November 2 and November 9, 2026. A street performance at Kohima by the Indian Army and Assam Rifles Jazz Band, along with prominent singers from Nagaland, celebrated local talent and built enthusiasm for the event on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. The tournament, organised in association with the Nagaland Football Association, offers a prize pool of Rs 8.69 lakh to encourage youth participation in football. Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse was born on July 15, 1974 and hailed from Nerhema village in the Kohima district of Nagaland. He did his schooling at St Xavier School in Jalukie and finished his graduation from Kohima Science College. He then served as a teacher at the Government High School in Kohima from 1994 to 1997. On December 12, 1998, Capt Kenguruse was commissioned into the Army Service Corps (ASC) of the Indian Army. As his first assignment, Capt Kenguruse was posted to the unit deployed in Jammu and Kashmir. He was Neibu to his family and Nimbu Sahab' to his troops in the Army. When the Kargil War started in 1999, Capt Kenguruse was deputed as a junior commander in the Rajputana Rifles battalion deployed in the Drass sector. He was made the lead commander of the Ghatak Platoon of his battalion for his determination and prowess. The Ghatak platoons comprise the most physically fit and motivated soldiers of the Army. Specially trained, they are the ones to make the first to make the first waves of attack against the enemy. Capt Kenguruses Ghatak platoon was given the responsibility of taking out a strategic machine gun post held by the enemy on a cliff face, the Black Rock, on the night of June 28, 1999. Heavy gunfire from this position had been hindering the battalions progress in the sector for days, and it was very crucial to neutralise this enemy position. The gun post was on a cliff with a steep gradient, and the path was open to enemy artillery fire, making the assigned task extremely challenging for the Ghatak platoons. The young officer did not flinch, took up the challenge and swung into action along with his troops. About seven Pakistani bunkers stood before them, and heavy artillery greeted their journey up the knife-edge cliff of the hill. As they were nearing the first bunker, a grenade was thrown at them, which injured Capt Kenguruse severely. He sustained splinter injuries in his abdomen, but undeterred, he urged his men to carry on with the assault. The commando came under intense mortar and automatic fire as they scaled the cliff. This caused heavy casualties. Capt Kenguruse, however, kept leading from the front and decimated the first bunker using a rocket launcher. Motivated by his leadership, the Ghataks moved on further up the cliff. On reaching the final cliff face, they were halted by a rock wall that separated them from the enemy machine-gun post. They had to scale the wall to reach the enemy. Capt Kengeruse's foothold was slipping due to his boots when he attempted to secure the rope, enabling his men to climb over the rock face. At a height of 16,000 feet and a temperature of -10 degrees Celsius, the officer kicked off his shoes for better grip and scaled the rock barefoot. When two enemy soldiers from the second bunker charged towards him, he engaged them in hand-to-hand combat and hacked them to death with his commando knife. As he approached the third bunker, however, a stream of bullets threw him off the cliff, and he plunged down the cliff, a few hundred feet below. Capt Kenguruse single-handedly destroyed two bunkers and was responsible for neutralising the enemy position. His act of bravery had a profound impact on his troops, who got charged up to capture the position and kill the enemy troops to avenge his death. The assigned mission was successful, and the troops attributed their success to the unfaltering leadership and daredevil action of Capt Kenguruse. Martyred at the age of 25 years, Capt Kenguruse was honoured with the nations second-highest gallantry award, Maha Vir Chakra, posthumously, for his raw courage, indomitable spirit and supreme sacrifice. Capt Kenguruse also went on to become the first and the only recipient of the Maha Vir Chakra from the Army Service Corps(ASC). Realising the immense respect that the people of Nagaland have for this brave warrior, the Army has been organising the football tournament in his honour for the last several years. It has now turned out to be one of the most sought-after football tournaments in the state.
Cops enter SRFTI campus at night after torchlight march
Girls statement holds key to Behala strip probe
Teen assaulted in Hastings road rage
Maicon In Kolkata For Grassroots Football
Former Brazil international Douglas Maicon is set to visit Kolkata on November 13-14 as a global brand ambassador for King Sports Management. His visit aims to bolster grassroots football development, youth scouting, and provide technical insights to young Indian talent, including a talent hunt programme.
Ex-Bengal Minister Indranil Sen Arrested Over Irregularities In Durga Puja Pass Sales
Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said Indranil Sen's arrest followed an investigation by the ED and Kolkata Police.
Bengals new industry policy may fast-track projects over 100 acres
STF likely to take over Samserganj encounter probe; Samauls wife seeks compensation
Ex-WB Minister Held For Durga Puja Entry Pass Scam
Former West Bengal minister Indranil Sen was arrested by the Kolkata Police: Reports
Farmer found with throat slit in Gaighata field; 1 detained
Extraordinary situations demand tough decisions
Suvendu raises Chandranath murder in assembly, questions source of Rs 2 crore contract
Bijoya visit sparks BJP face-off
Suvendu advises Mamata to rest at home, raises allegations over aides murder
Defending his decision to vacate Nandigram and retain Bhabanipur, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari told the West Bengal Assembly he did not want to give Mamata Banerjee another chance to contest a byelection
Sarvamangala 2026 Marks the Fifth Year of its Inception with the Sublime Theme of Dharagni
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], October 28: Sarvamangala 2026 marked the fifth year of its inception with the sublime theme of Dharagni, depicting Earth and Fire coming together in a symbiotic
NCW presents roadmap for womens development in Bengal, submits report to CM Adhikari
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 28 (IANS) The National Commission for Women (NCW) has prepared a report consolidating recommendations for the development, safety and empowerment of women in West Bengal and submitted it to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for consideration. The same has been forwarded to the state Women and Child Development Minister, Malati Rava Roy, said a statement by NCW on Wednesday. The report was prepared following the 'Nari Netritwe Unnoto' conclave, which was held in August this year at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Kolkata. The conclave brought together over 120 stakeholders, including policymakers, administrators, legal experts, healthcare professionals, academics, entrepreneurs, artists and civil society representatives. Deliberations focused on three interconnected priorities related to womens health, safety and social protection; womens leadership in education, arts, literature and culture; and entrepreneurship, industry and economic empowerment. The report sets out recommendations intended to inform policy and strengthen implementation at the grassroots level. Under the 'Holistic Well-being: Health, Safety and Social Protection' initiative, the NCW recommended expanding access to maternal and preventive healthcare, including iron supplementation, support for women recovering from cancer, mobile health camps, eye care and vaccination for women tea-garden workers. Consider a family health-insurance card of Rs 5 lakh registered in the womans name for families without existing health insurance. Strengthen One Stop Centres to provide survivors of domestic violence with coordinated legal aid, counselling, medical care and appropriate shelter support. Expand public awareness of womens legal rights, access to legal aid, safety in public spaces and relevant government schemes; continue strengthening the Durga Suraksha Bahini initiative, read the recommendations as stated in the statement. The NCW further urged the state government to initiate women-led development: entrepreneurship, industry and economic empowerment, and improve institutional credit for Self-Help Groups (SHGs), strengthen cooperative societies and expand access to livelihood programmes, digital literacy and skills training, particularly in remote and border areas. The recommendations emerging from the conclave call for coordinated policy action, adequate resources and robust monitoring to translate women-led development into measurable outcomes across West Bengal. The NCW will continue to engage with the State Government and stakeholders to advance their consideration and effective implementation, read the statement.
Female teacher stabbed repeatedly by alleged lover in Siliguri, accused attempts suicide
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 28 (IANS) A private school teacher was critically injured after she was stabbed multiple times by a man said to be her former lover in West Bengal's Siliguri on Wednesday morning. The accused later allegedly consumed poison and stabbed himself in an apparent suicide attempt, police said. The injured teacher has been identified as Shiuli Dutta. She works as a private teacher in Siliguri. On Wednesday, she went out for a morning walk when a young man named Sajal Das followed her for some distance and then attacked her with a knife. According to police, she received injuries to the face and neck during the assault. The attacker cut off her hair and threw it on the road. The teacher ran and entered a nearby house to save her life. The police further said that the alleged 'lover' also followed her and entered the house. Sajal again stabbed Shiuli repeatedly. Witnesses said the man then consumed poison and later stabbed himself in the abdomen with the same knife. Local residents who attempted to intervene were also threatened and attacked by him, they claimed. A witness identified as Kanchana Mandal told local reporters, The woman ran into the house next door. The man also entered. While stabbing the woman with the knife, he took poison and inserted the knife into his own stomach in front of my eyes. My hands and legs are still shaking when I think of that scene. Several people claimed that they tried to stop Sajal, but the young man also attacked them with a knife. Later, personnel from the Ashighar outpost under Bhaktinagar Police Station rushed to the spot and rescued both the injured woman and the accused. They were taken to Siliguri District Hospital, from where the accused was later shifted to North Bengal Medical College and Hospital after his condition deteriorated. Doctors treated the woman for multiple injuries, including wounds to her neck. Police said her condition is currently stable. According to local residents, the accused is married, while the woman is divorced and has a minor son. Locals claimed the two had known each other for years and were previously in a relationship that had reportedly soured in recent months. The victim's brother, Kalyan Saha, alleged that the accused had been harassing his sister for some time and that complaints had earlier been made to the police. Police said an investigation into the incident is underway.
Bengal soil theft case: Abhishek Banerjees aide now shown arrested
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 28 (IANS) Sumit Roy, the executive assistant of Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee, on Wednesday, was shown as arrested by the Diamond District Police in soil theft case. Roy is already serving judicial custody after he was arrested on September 10 this year by the sleuths of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the West Bengal Police, in connection with a multi-crore illegal land-grabbing case at Salboni in West Midnapore district of West Bengal. With the Diamond Harbour Police showing him as arrested in a new case, political observers feel that additional pressure has started mounting both on him as well as his political bosses. Roy had been shown as arrested by the Diamond Harbour District Police in relation to a case registered against him at Kalitala- Ashuti Police Station under the same police district, where he had been accused of involvement in soil theft to the tune of Rs 400 crore. Roy was produced at a lower court in Kolkata on Wednesday with a request to take him into custody. He is already in judicial custody in the Salboni land corruption case. That investigation is ongoing. Therefore, the Diamond Harbour Police District has shown him as arrested in this soil theft case as per the rules and pleaded for his custody, said a district police officer. In the Salboni illegal land grabbing case, the police first arrested former Trinamool Congress legislator Sujay Hazra. During the investigation of Hazra, the name of Roy in relation to the case surfaced, following which he was arrested by the CID sleuths on September 10 after being questioned a number of times. In the chargesheet filed by the CID in the matter, the investigating agency had given details of how money in the Salboni illegal land grabbing case reached the office of Roy. In the midst of that investigation, he had been shown as arrested in another case by the Diamond Harbour District Police.
Indranil Sen, former Bengal minister, arrested by Kolkata Police in money laundering case
Former West Bengal minister and TMC leader Indranil Sen was arrested by Kolkata Police shortly after he came out of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office at the CGO Complex in Salt Lake on Wednesday. The...
Bengal cabinet clears draft industrial policy, to be announced on Nov 5
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 28 (IANS) West Bengal cabinet, at a meeting on Wednesday, cleared the draft industrial policy, saying that the policy will be announced on November 5 at an administration review meeting. Earlier, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had announced that a comprehensive new industrial policy would be formed within the current year to facilitate investment in the state. Accordingly, a group of ministers was entrusted with the task of forming the new industrial policy in the state in June this year. Finally, the draft policy had been prepared and cleared by the state cabinet in a meeting on Wednesday. The same will be announced on November 5. This new industrial policy will be a gift for the people of West Bengal before the forthcoming Kali Puja and Diwali festivals, said a member of the state cabinet. According to the state cabinet member, the new industrial policy had been prepared with the focus of creating an ideal investment ambience in the state, removing red-tapism in approvals and massive employment generation. Besides approving the draft industrial policy, the state cabinet at Wednesdays meeting also cleared some proposals related to development in sectors like farming and the allied rural economy. The state cabinet also cleared the proposal to change the name of the Krishak Bandhu scheme, which was adopted by the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government, to that of Chief Minister Kisan Sanman Nidhi, under which one-time direct financial assistance will be transferred to the bank accounts of 48 lakh registered farmers. The state cabinet also reviewed the expenditure allocation to speed up the administrative infrastructure. The state finance department was directed to immediately release the next instalment of funds to different state government departments that have already spent 35 per cent of their annual budget allocation. Instructions were given to the police department to maintain public safety, peace and order during the festival days, focusing on the forthcoming Kali Puja and Diwali. Ministers have been assigned the responsibility of a specific district to keep a close eye on the situation in those districts during the festival days.
Bose Institute Ph.D Admission Autumn 2026 - Apply Online for 56 Seats, Last Date 20 November
Bose Institute, Kolkata has announced Ph.D Admission Autumn 2026 under Advertisement No. BI/JRF/06/2026-27 for an estimated 56 seats across three departments. The online application deadline is 20 November 2026. Check educational qualifications, age limit, fellowship, selection process and application details.
After Kolkatas Naked Mob Justice, Police Parade 3 Accused Semi-Naked To Reconstruct Crime
In a shocking incident in Kolkatas Behala, an 18-year-old youth, his father and the youths friend were allegedly forced to walk naked at gunpoint after the teenager was seen kissing a 13-year-old girl. Around 36 hours later, police brought three accused the girls father, maternal uncle and the uncles friend to the same spot, making them walk semi-naked as part of what officers described as a crime scene recreation. The police action has drawn criticism from human rights group APDR, which questioned whether such public humiliation was permitted under the law. Police are also investigating other possible accused in the case.
Kolkata Police Enters SRFTI Campus as Students Hold Torch Rally
Vice-chancellor Santosh Ajmera said the protest could not be considered peaceful, alleging that outsiders had joined the students to take control of the institution
Kolkata Film Festival Likely at Victoria Memorial, Rajinikanth May Attend
The festival, scheduled to be held from December 16 to 23, will be the first edition organised under the newly formed BJP government in West Bengal.
BJP's Hasirani Rath, Sakharov Sarkar take oath as MLAs in Bengal Assembly
Hasarani Rath and Sakharov Sarkar recently took their oaths as MLAs in the West Bengal Assembly in Kolkata. Their victories in the Nandigram and Rejinagar bypolls occurred after their predecessors vacated their seats. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari attended the swearing-in and highlighted the transparent live-streaming of the events. Adhikari expressed gratitude to voters and affirmed his commitment to fulfilling their promises.
Todays Gold Rate: Gold prices up in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across metro cities on October 28
Heavy rain warning for south Bengal as cyclone Arnab disrupts air travel, several flights cancelled
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 28 (IANS) Even as Cyclone Arnab is making landfall in Andhra Pradesh, its impact on West Bengal has remained limited so far. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall in parts of south Bengal over the next two days and warned of thunderstorms across several districts. According to the weather office, heavy rain is likely on Wednesday in four south Bengal districts -- South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore and Jhargram. Light to moderate rainfall is expected in the remaining districts. Gusty winds with speeds of 30-40 km per hour may affect most south Bengal districts, including Kolkata. Thunderstorms have also been forecast across all south Bengal districts, including Kolkata, on Thursday. While weather conditions are expected to improve from Friday, a yellow alert for thunderstorms remains in place for East Burdwan, Birbhum, Murshidabad and Nadia districts. The cyclonic system has also affected flight operations at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. Three IndiGo flights arriving in the city and two departing flights were cancelled due to Cyclone Arnab. In East Midnapore district, scattered heavy rainfall was recorded on Tuesday afternoon. Strong winds have been reported from coastal areas, including Contai and Ramnagar, since Wednesday morning. The tidal surge in the Bay of Bengal has remained significantly above normal levels, prompting authorities to step up precautionary measures. Announcements are being made through public address systems in coastal areas near Tajpur and Shankarpur, while sea bathing has been prohibited as a safety measure. Meanwhile, north Bengal is also expected to witness adverse weather conditions. Heavy rainfall has been forecast in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri districts on Thursday and Friday. A yellow alert for thunderstorms has been issued for the remaining north Bengal districts. The Meteorological Department has cautioned that persistent rainfall could trigger landslides in the hill areas of north Bengal.
Samserganj encounter: Inspector fired at accused to save his senior, say cops
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 28 (IANS) Samiul Sheikh, the murder accused killed in a police encounter at Samserganj in Murshidabad district of West Bengal on Tuesday afternoon, targeted a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) ranking officer before he was killed in counter-firing by an Inspector ranking officer, insiders from the state police confirmed on Wednesday. State police insiders said that Sheikh, an accused in the murder of local BJP leader in Samserganj, was taken on Tuesday afternoon to the scene of the crime to recreate the sequence of events when he suddenly snatched the firearm of an escorting cop and also fired two rounds towards the police personnel. After both his targets missed, sources said, the accused specially targeted the DSP, leaving no other option for the Inspector to resort to counter-firing, killing Samiul Sheikh. It is learnt that Samiul Sheikh was hit on his head by a bullet, which ultimately led to his death. He was rushed to the local Jangipur Sub-divisional hospital where he was declared dead. This was the second encounter on Tuesday, the first being at Gaighata I North 24 Parganas district on the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday, when Prahlad Das, an accused in the rape and murder of a minor girl in his locality, was killed in a police encounter. In this case also, Das allegedly tried to escape after snatching the firearm of an escorting cop and also fired at the on-duty police personnel. Although some human rights activists' groups have condemned the twin encounters and described them as extra-judicial executions, top members of the West Bengal Cabinet including Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, justified the police actions in these two cases. The Chief Minister of the BJP government in the state had claimed that he had given a free hand to the police to tackle the twin social evils of crimes against women and narcotics trafficking. The state Panchayat Affairs and Rural Development Minister, Dilip Ghosh had claimed that at times cops have to do some unpleasant work for the sake of larger public interest. The state Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Minister, Agnimitra Paul, has written a poem and posted the same on the wall of her social media handle, indirectly backing the Gaighata and Samserganj encounters.
Gappu Cajon Hunt Brings Rhythm, Talent and Brand Purpose Together in Kolkata
Featuring tabla maestro Bickram Ghosh, the initiative marks Gappus effort to popularise the cajon, nurture emerging percussionists, and build a stronger connection between the brand and Indias music community. Kolkata
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], October 27: Integrated communications agency Nico Digital partnered with Salt Lake Sanskritik Sansad for its Durga Puja and Dussehra celebrations at Central Park, Salt Lake, managing
Kolkata Sees Temporary Air Quality Improvement Ahead of Kali Puja and Diwali
Kolkatas air quality improves due to Cyclone Arnab, but pollution is expected to rise again with upcoming festivals. Kolkata Sees Temporary Air Quality Improvement Ahead of Kali Puja and Diwali
Kolkata's Haldiram's Restaurant Shut, Flies And Cockroaches Found During Raid By Officials
The operators have volunteered to close Haldiram's restaurant for two days to carry out the required cleaning measures.
Kolkata: Police parade 3 accused shirtless in assault case
On Sunday evening, a 17-year-old boy was caught kissing his girlfriend by her family
Gold, silver prices today, 28 October: Check the retail price of 18K, 22K and 24K gold and 999 Fine silver on Tuesday in your cities Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
After Behala naked mob justice, cops parade 3 accused semi-naked to reconstruct crime
In 1 day, Bengal sees 2 crime scene encounter deaths
Dropout, semester system priority for new HS council chief
500 kg waste collected in Elliot Park plogging drive
Trains & flights to avoid Arnab path, travel disruptions likely
Dim lights, improvisation queries for Chorbagan pandal theme artist
A month on, stir spills over to other campuses as SRFTI students launch nationwide protests
Rain hits Kolkata before cyclone Arnab makes landfall
