Shadow of Annapurna demand over KMC doorstep camps
State Cong chief seeks EC clarification
Bengal: ER inaugurates biogas plant on Swachh Bharat Diwas
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 2 (IANS) As part of its ongoing Swachhata campaign and to mark Gandhi Jayanti, Eastern Railway (ER) inaugurated a biogas plant under the Sealdah Division on Friday. The day is also observed as Swachh Bharat Diwas. The plant will not only be a source of green, non-polluting fuel, but will also help in the disposal of organic waste generated at railway establishments. The biogas plant was inaugurated by ER General Manager Gitika Pandey at the Narkeldanga barracks of the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Officials described it as a significant milestone towards a cleaner and greener future. The plant has been built at an estimated railway-funded project cost of nearly Rs 25 lakh and underscores ER's commitment under its Environment & Housekeeping Management initiative to transform organic waste into clean cooking energy for a sustainable future. The project is designed to process 250 kg of organic waste every day and generate about 8-10 m of methane-rich biogas daily. The plant will source segregated vegetable and food waste as feedstock directly from Sealdah station, the Sealdah railway colony at Narkeldanga, and B.R. Singh Hospital. The facility operates through a structured five-step mechanism, an official said. He explained that the process starts with waste collection, followed by shredding, where the machine breaks waste into fine particles for faster and more complete digestion. The waste then undergoes aerobic and anaerobic digestion in a two-chamber digester tank before passing through filtration and smart metering protected by a relief valve. Finally, a booster pump increases gas pressure before deployment. According to the official, the plant has the capacity to generate the equivalent of about 90-110 domestic cylinders annually. The fuel will be piped to the kitchen of the barracks. The nutrient-rich slurry by-product, which could amount to 73 tonnes per year, will nourish local plantations as organic manure, thereby reducing the use of chemical fertilisers, the official added. He said this would lead to lower carbon dioxide emissions and prevent the open dumping of methane through a transparent, smart-meter-monitored circular-economy model that can be replicated across other stations and colonies. The Liluah Workshop of ER also has a biogas plant. More such plants will come up at other locations. Shibram Majhi, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), ER, said the biogas plant reflects the railway zone's strong commitment to waste-to-energy solutions and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Bengal Minister seeks Mamata Banerjees arrest over ED claims in Indranil Sen probe
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 2 (IANS) A political controversy erupted in West Bengal on Friday after Labour Minister Arjun Singh demanded the arrest of former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, citing an Enforcement Directorate (ED) statement claiming that Rs 30 lakh was transferred to her from the bank account of Octave Records, a proprietorship concern of former state minister Indranil Sen, who is under investigation in connection with alleged money laundering cases. The people of Bengal know that Mamata Banerjee made her nephew a money-making machine. The former Chief Minister was very much a part of the game. Now everything is coming out in the open, Singh told reporters. He alleged that Mamata Banerjee had damaged the state's finances during her tenure and said she should be arrested. The comments came after the ED issued a statement on Thursday naming Mamata Banerjee and former West Bengal Tourism Minister Indranil Sen in connection with an investigation into a money laundering case separate from the Mass Art case, in which the organisation had been accused of selling Durga Puja preview show passes in 2024 and 2025. Sen is already under the ED scanner in connection with the Mass Art case. The latest matter relates to the ED's investigation into Sen's proprietorship concern, Octave Records. According to the ED statement, during Sen's tenure as Tourism Minister in a Trinamool Congress government led by Mamata Banerjee, multiple tenders worth more than Rs 85 crore from the state Tourism and Cultural Affairs Departments were allegedly awarded to entities owned by Dhrubajyoti Bose and Dipesh Roy, who were described as close associates of Sen. The agency alleged that these entities subsequently transferred large sums of money to businesses controlled by relatives of Indranil Sen. It also claimed that substantial cash withdrawals were made from the accounts of the entities that secured those tenders. In the same statement, the ED claimed that its investigation revealed that more than Rs 3.3 crore in cash had been deposited in the bank accounts of Sen and his proprietorship concern, Octave Records. The agency further claimed that nearly Rs 30 lakh was transferred from the bank account of Octave Records to Mamata Banerjee through banking channels. According to the ED statement, Indranil Sen stated that the amount was paid as royalty. Singh's demand for Mamata Banerjees arrest was based on the contents of the ED statement. However, Trinamool Congress MLA from Beliaghata Assembly constituency Kunal Ghosh came out in defence of Mamata Banerjee. The money that went to Mamata Banerjees account from Sen's organisation was completely legal and is reflected in income tax records, Ghosh said. He said Mamata Banerjee had been writing and composing songs for many years and that Sens organisation had commercially marketed those songs. According to Ghosh, the payments received by Mamata Banerjee were royalty payments arising from those works. He alleged that there was an attempt to politically malign the former Chief Minister.
Bengal CM explains decision to retain Bhabanipur seat
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 2 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Friday explained why he chose to retain the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency in South Kolkata instead of his original constituency, Nandigram, in East Midnapore, after winning simultaneously from both constituencies in the West Bengal Assembly elections earlier this year. Had I not retained Bhabanipur, then the bypoll would have been for Bhabanipur and not Nandigram. In that case, the Trinamool Congress candidate whom I defeated would have contested from Bhabanipur in the bypoll, CM Adhikari said at Nandigram while campaigning for Hasirani Rath, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate for the bypoll there, which is scheduled for Oct 6. In the Assembly elections earlier this year, Adhikari, as a BJP candidate, was elected simultaneously from Nandigram and Bhabanipur. At Bhabanipur, he defeated his predecessor and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee by a margin of over 15,000 votes. Later, he retained Bhabanipur, necessitating a bypoll for Nandigram. Speaking on the occasion, he also appealed to the voters of Nandigram to vote in such a manner that the deposits of the principal opposition parties are forfeited. The sin committed by Trinamool Congress has crossed all limits. So, Oct 6, the polling day, will be the day to teach them a lesson, the Chief Minister said. Referring to the assassination of his former personal assistant, late Chandranath Rath, who was killed on a public road at Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas district on May 6 this year, and whose mother is Hasirani Rath, CM Adhikari urged voters to respond democratically. The voters of Nandigram will have to take a democratic revenge on Oct 6 for the murder of Chandranath Rath merely for being my assistant, CM Adhikari said. Speaking on the occasion, he also referred to the recent arrest of Sumit Roy, the executive assistant of Trinamool Congress General Secretary and the partys Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member, Abhishek Banerjee, on charges of corruption. Sumit Roy has already been arrested on charges of corruption. Now a bigger thief will be behind bars soon, the Chief Minister said, without clarifying whom he was indicating as the bigger thief.
Bengal: SER announces 19 pairs of special trains for festive rush
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 2 (IANS) With the festive season approaching, South Eastern Railway (SER) has announced a number of special trains to clear the passenger rush. These trains will be run between various locations before Durga Puja, Diwali and Chhath for the convenience of passengers. Coaches have also been added to regular trains to increase capacity. SER will run 19 pairs of special trains. These will make 344 trips during the festival season. In addition, one pair of special trains operated by other zonal railways will also run through SER's network. We have also added 30 coaches permanently to various trains, further enhancing passenger-carrying capacity and strengthening the availability of accommodation on regular services, an official said. The special trains will originate from stations such as Shalimar, Santragachi, Digha, Ranchi, Hatia and Adityapur, and will run towards Charlapalli, Visakhapatnam, Khurda Road, Ajmer, Naharlagun, Puri, Thiruvananthapuram, Malda Town, Anand Vihar, Bano, Alipurduar, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Lucknow. A lot of planning was involved, the official said, adding that reservation details had been studied to understand where people from a particular place wanted to travel. The trains were decided accordingly. SER had run 19 special train services during the festive season in 2025. These trains had made 356 trips. Subsequently, eight pairs of these special trains were regularised as permanent services, providing passengers with continued connectivity beyond the festival season. In addition, 28 special trains from other zones passed through SER's jurisdiction. In 2025, as many as 74 coaches were augmented on a permanent basis on various regular trains to meet the additional demand. These arrangements will help those travelling to tourist destinations during the festival season, as well as those returning home from their places of occupation, the official said. He added: Hopefully, these arrangements will be sufficient. If required, further arrangements can be made depending on demand.
RSS doesnt believe in religious divisions, works for society
India vs Brazil: Messi fiasco effects linger; tickets unsold
India face Brazil in a highly anticipated football friendly at Kolkatas Salt Lake Stadium. With Brazil arriving under tight security, authorities are looking to avoid a repeat of the chaos surrounding Lionel Messis previous visit. Around 70% of tickets were still reportedly unsold ahead of the match.
Past regime looted natural resources, wont happen anymore: Bengal CM
Watch: Vinicius Jr And Brazil Train At Salt Lake Stadium, World Cup-Like Buzz Takes Over Kolkata
Vinicius Junior and Gabriel walked onto the pitch together to loud cheers, setting the tone for a Brazil training session that felt less like the eve of a friendly and more like a 'World Cup occasion' at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium on Friday.
Ancelotti calls India clash a 'test', Marquinhos eyes confidence boost for Brazil
Brazil defender and captain Marquinhos welcomed the opportunity to play against India in a friendly, speaking about the warm reception from football-loving fans in Kolkata and their passion for the sport. Brazil head coach and multiple-time UEFA Champions League winner Carlo Ancelotti, meanwhile, described the match as another est for his team to demonstrate its quality. History will be made as India takes on five-time FIFA World Cup champions Brazil in a high-profile friendly at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday. Speaking ahead of the match, as per the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF)'s official website, Marquinhos said he was happy to be in India and praised the welcome received by the team. I am very happy to be here. You can see all these people here welcoming us. Since yesterday, from the first day, we have received a very warm welcome here. It is a golden opportunity to be here representing the Brazilian National Team for this country, for these people who are pas...
When and where to watch India vs Brazil FIFA friendly: know all details
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 2 (IANS) India will take on five-time world champions Brazil in a historic international friendly at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Saturday, with the match set to kick off at 7:30 PM IST. The highly anticipated encounter will be the first time the senior mens national teams of India and Brazil face each other, with the Blue Tigers set to come up against the highest-ranked opposition they have faced since the FIFA Mens World Ranking was introduced. Brazil currently occupy fifth place in the FIFA rankings, while India are ranked 138th. The Seleos ranking surpasses the previous record of ninth-ranked Russia, whom India faced in 1995, and Japan, also ranked ninth when the teams met in 1998. India head into the landmark fixture with confidence after holding 44th-ranked Panama to a 1-1 draw last Friday. Ryan Williams put India ahead before Khalid Jamils side defended resolutely to secure a result against a top-50 opponent for the first time. Brazil, meanwhile, arrive in India unbeaten since their 2026 World Cup campaign ended with a 2-1 round-of-16 defeat to Norway. Under head coach Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil have recorded 11 wins, four draws and four defeats in 19 matches, scoring 41 goals and conceding 18. The five-time FIFA World Cup champions drew 1-1 with Australia before beating them 4-2 in their second friendly in September. Rayan scored a late equaliser in the first game, while Vanderson, Raphinha, Bruno Guimaraes and Vinicius Jnior found the net in the second. Raphinha, however, will miss the Kolkata friendly because of a thigh injury and has left the travelling squad, reducing Brazils group from 26 to 25 players. Brazil will be making their first senior mens national team appearance in India, although the country has a long association with Indian football. Legendary Brazilian Pele visited Kolkata in 1977 and played for New York Cosmos against Mohun Bagan in an exhibition match at Eden Gardens, which ended in a 2-2 draw in front of more than 80,000 spectators. Brazil will also become only the third CONMEBOL nation that India will face after Peru and Uruguay. India have lost their previous three matches against South American opponents. When: Saturday, October 3, 7:30 PM IST Where: Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata Where to watch: Live streaming on the SonyLIV app and TV broadcast on Sony Sports channels.
CPM meet vandalised in Birati, party blames BJP
Bengal: Eight Pujas selected for inaugural Durga Puja Adani Preview 2026
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 2 (IANS) Adani Group, this year, is participating in a major way in the forthcoming Durga Puja festival in West Bengal by organising the Durga Puja Adani Preview 2026, a three-night public preview designed to give people the time and space to experience the artistry, craftsmanship and stories behind the celebrations before the city enters the full rhythm of Puja. This year, ahead of the main Puja days, eight of the citys Pujas will come together for the inaugural Durga Puja Adani Preview 2026, and more than 70 artists have registered to participate in the initiative, while over 30,000 visitors have already registered for the preview, said Adani Group on Friday. The eight Pujas were selected independently by a four-member jury comprising Padma Shri award winner, artist-cum-sculptor Paresh Maity; industrialists and art connoisseur, Harshavardhan Neotia; acclaimed architect, Abin Chaudhuri; and Kolkata Restorer and heritage conservationist, Mudar Patherya The selection process was conducted at arms length from Adani, with the jury independently assessing the entries and determining the final selections. Adani had no role in choosing the selected Pujas, said the statement. The selected artists and Puja organisers are Anirban Das of Alipore Sarbojanin Durgotsav, Bhabatosh Sutar of Yuba Sangha, Debasis Barui of Rajdanga Naba Uday Sangha, Eshika Chandra & Deep Das of Barisha Club, Pradip Das - Behala Club Sarbojonin, Purnendu Dey of Rajdanga Amra Kayjan Kalyan Samity, Raju Sarkar of Thakurpur State Bank Park Sarbojanin and Sanatan Dinda of Nalin Sarkar Street Sarbojanin Durgatsob Samity The Preview will take place on October 10, 11 and 12, ahead of the main Puja days, and it will remain open from 6 p.m. to 4 a.m. across all three nights. Entry to the Preview is free with a Preview Pass. Registrations are being accepted, with access subject to capacity and applicable arrangements. The experience has also been designed with senior citizens and persons with disabilities in mind, to make the Preview more accessible, reads the statement. According to it, visitors will have an opportunity to explore the selected Puja installations, discover the art and craftsmanship behind them and understand the stories that shape them ahead of the main Puja period. The Preview is also intended to help guests from outside Bengal engage more deeply with Kolkatas Durga Puja traditions, building greater awareness of its artistic and cultural richness and encouraging them to carry those stories beyond Bengal as informed ambassadors of the experience, the statement added.
50% Puja discount on food sold through PDS
Credai stresses Bengals real estate potential, calls for affordable housing reform
CM Adhikari To Watch India-Brazil Football Match In Kolkata
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will attend the India-Brazil international football friendly in Kolkata on October 3. The city is preparing for the historic match, with Brazil's five-time world champions having arrived and security measures stepped up.
Brazil Football Team's Kolkata Training: A Grand Affair
The Brazil national football team's training session in Kolkata drew an unprecedented media turnout, resembling a World Cup event, ahead of their friendly match against India. Despite the excitement, the event was marred by significant accreditation chaos for journalists. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti's squad is building towards the 2028 Copa America, with the India match serving as a crucial assessment opportunity.
Tripura launches innovation challenge, Digi-SAPNE 3.0 for start-ups
How Kolkata is gearing up for India vs Brazil after Lionel Messi fiasco
India Vs Brazil: Marquinhos Says Brazil Are 'Very Happy' To Face Blue Tigers In Kolkata
The Brazil clash is part of India's historic international window, with the Blue Tigers facing three teams that featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Three arrested for extortion, attacking woman police officer in Tripura
Saroj Poddar, Keventer launch Rs 400cr real estate AIF, first from eastern India
Bengal launches Reform Utsav across 9,593 gram panchayats
Soccer-Brazil bask in festive welcome in Kolkata ahead of India friendly
Brazil received a warm welcome from fans in Kolkata
West Bengal finance minister says Urban Land Act has to go
Swapan Dasgupta highlighted the need to repeal the Urban Land Ceiling Act for development in West Bengal. Developers expressed challenges in acquiring large land parcels due to existing regulations. The local real estate market is expected to thrive with government reforms and improved infrastructure. Kolkata's economic position can facilitate greater investment opportunities and development networks. Overall, sustained demand and rising land prices indicate a promising future for the sector.
Five-time world champions Brazil will field a star-studded squad featuring Vinicius Junior for the game at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday.
Humans, dreamed and taken apart | 'Friends' exhibition @ Akar Prakar, Kolkata
Humans, dreamed and taken apart | 'Friends' exhibition @ Akar Prakar, Kolkata
Making of a mahanayak | Uttam Kumar centenary @ Kolkata Centre for Creativity
Making of a mahanayak | Uttam Kumar centenary @ Kolkata Centre for Creativity
Marquinhos reveals what makes Brazil's India visit special
Brazil's star centre-back Marquinhos discusses the significance of their FIFA international friendly against India in Kolkata. He views the match as a golden opportunity for the Selecao to gain experience and kickstart a new cycle after their disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign. Marquinhos acknowledges India's strong fan base for Brazil and emphasises the team's commitment to every game, regardless of its friendly status, as they focus on rebuilding confidence and winning.
Kolkata Hosts Historic India vs Brazil Football Clash Under Tight Anti-VIP Security
National Workshop on SDG Budgeting Held in Kolkata to Enhance Sustainable Development Goals
A national workshop on SDG budgeting was held in Kolkata, aimed at aligning state budgets with sustainable development goals. National Workshop on SDG Budgeting Held in Kolkata to Enhance Sustainable Development Goals
For Kolkatas football fans, Brazil was love before first sight
'Full respect for India': Ancelotti's message before clash
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed respect for the Indian team ahead of their match in Kolkata, viewing it as an opportunity for his squad rather than a test. He discussed the challenges of managing a national team, the importance of commitment and joy in football, and the ongoing preparations for the 2026 World Cup, including significant squad changes and the blend of youth and experience. Ancelotti also reflected on Brazil's recent World Cup disappointment and the evolving nature of football.
India vs Brazil Football Match: Carlo Ancelotti looking for an entertaining contest
India vs Brazil: Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said Brazil have full respect for India ahead of their Kolkata clash, describing the match as an opportunity rather than a test. The five-time Champions League-winning manager said Brazil are blending youth and experience while rebuilding after their 2026 World Cup disappointment. Ancelotti stressed commitment, quality and joy as Brazil's identity.
India vs Brazil Football Match: Carlo Ancelotti looking for an entertaining contest
India vs Brazil: Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said Brazil have full respect for India ahead of their Kolkata clash, describing the match as an opportunity rather than a test. The five-time Champions League-winning manager said Brazil are blending youth and experience while rebuilding after their 2026 World Cup disappointment. Ancelotti stressed commitment, quality and joy as Brazil's identity.
The Calcutta High Court on Thursday, 1 October 2026, declined to grant interim permission for prayers to resume at the Bankra Mosque located within the premises of the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, as reported in Economic Times. Justice Krishna Rao was hearing a petition challenging the suspension of access to the [] The post Calcutta High Court Denies Interim Access To Airport Mosque For Prayers; Cites Flydubai Cockpit Attack appeared first on The Commune .
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], October 2: For Gulam Ashraf, Chairman and Managing Director of Phonex Group, business growth and social responsibility are closely connected, with the logistics entrepreneur looking to expand the company's operations while increasing its contribution towards education, healthcare, skill development and livelihood opportunities.
Retail space leasing in malls falls 38% in Q3 across top 8 cities: Cushman
Leasing of retail space in shopping malls fell 38 per cent to 0.71 million square feet in July-September across eight major cities due to supply constraints, according to Cushman & Wakefield. Data from real estate consultant Cushman & Wakefield showed that gross leasing of retail space in high-street locations rose 33 per cent to 1.51 million sq ft in the third quarter of the 2026 calendar year. The eight cities are -- Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune and Ahmedabad. Including shopping malls and high-street locations, total retail space leasing fell nearly 5 per cent to 2.22 million square feet in the latest September quarter from 2.33 million sq ft in the year-ago period. High street retail locations dominated leasing activities in the September quarter of 2026, accounting for 68 per cent of the total gross leasing. The share of shopping malls stood at 32 per cent of overall leasing. Of the eight cities, leasing activities were down only in ...
Amitabh Bachchan Celebrates Kolkatas Park Street on KBC, Calls It an Unmatched Experience
Amitabh Bachchan reminisces about Kolkatas Park Street on KBC, highlighting its vibrant nightlife and music culture. Amitabh Bachchan Celebrates Kolkatas Park Street on KBC, Calls It an Unmatched Experience
Brazil in Kolkata: India's biggest football test awaits
India is set to host five-time world champions Brazil in a historic invitational football friendly in Kolkata. The match, while offering invaluable exposure for the Indian team, has also drawn criticism over its cost and the decision to withdraw from the FIFA ASEAN Cup. The event carries political significance and marks a key step in Brazil's rebuilding process.
Brazil Takes On India In Landmark Kolkata Football Match
Five-time world champions Brazil are set to play India in an invitational friendly at Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium, marking their first-ever international meeting. The match, while a spectacle for Indian fans, has drawn criticism regarding its cost and impact on Indian football development, with former captain Bhaichung Bhutia questioning its value over long-term investment. For Brazil, it's part of a rebuilding process, while India aims to gain invaluable experience against a top-tier team.
Poddar Keventer Capital Advisors to raise up to Rs 400 crore for maiden real estate AIF
Poddar Keventer Capital Advisors Private Limited plans to raise up to Rs 400 crore for its Category II AIF. The fund will focus on real estate projects in Kolkata and Delhi over the next six years. Sponsors have committed to 20% of the target corpus, which stands at Rs 80 crore. The fund aims for a gross IRR of 18% to 22% before expenses.
Prove you are Indian, Calcutta HC tells SIR-deleted Bangladeshi
Oil prices surged on Thursday after a report said the US was sending a third aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, raising concerns over potential disruptions to crude supplies.
Brazil land in Kolkata for much-anticipated India friendly at Salt Lake Stadium
Brazil's national football team has arrived in Kolkata for an upcoming friendly match against India. The match is scheduled to take place at Salt Lake Stadium on October 3, marking a significant event in Indian football history. Advanced security arrangements are being implemented to prevent issues such as ticket black marketing. The West Bengal government is also upgrading infrastructure, aiming for a World Cup-like experience.
With over 18,000 pending appeals in 2 seats, SIR spectre looms over Bengal bypolls
Rejoin Cong, lead Bengal unit: Adhirs appeal to Mamata
Indranil Sens record firm paid Rs 30 lakh to ex-CM: ED
Judge cites flydubai cockpit stabbing during airport mosque case hearing
Egg Attack On Arrested YouTuber At Court
May Differ With Left Ideologies But Insult Not Okay: BJP Seniors
Clot From Uterine Tumour Moves To Heart, Woman Safe After Op
SRFTI girls film wins laurels at Kerala film festival
JU starts staff quarters audit
Private hospitals worry about govt pairing plan, seek clarity on emergency referrals
City retail leasing doubles in Q3, high streets lead demand
Revise Ayushman Bharat rate for pacemakers, urge cardiologists
Calcutta High Court to Hear PIL on Egg Pelting Cases November 27
HC sets aside KMC closure order against hotel
Localised showers flood Kolkata pockets
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State health department cancels Avik Des PG seat
Sachin Dev Burman's musical legacy continues to inspire generations: Tripura CM
Digital Desk | Agartala, Oct 2 (IANS) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has paid tribute to legendary singer and composer Sachin Dev Burman on his birth anniversary, recalling his immense contribution to Indian music and his enduring connection with the state. Speaking at a programme organised at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhawan here on Thursday, CM Saha said that Sachin Dev Burman's journey from his roots in the erstwhile Royal family of Tripura to becoming one of India's most celebrated musicians was an inspiration for the younger generation. The Chief Minister added that the state government had donated the house associated with the legendary musician, who belonged to the Royal family but remained grounded despite his aristocratic background. He belonged to the Royal family, where he had access to everything, but he left it all behind and created his own identity, CM Saha said. He recalled that Sachin Dev Burman was born in Comilla, now in Bangladesh, and said the folk traditions, melodies and songs of the region deeply influenced his musical sensibilities. CM Saha said that Burman later moved to Kolkata and subsequently to Mumbai, where he established himself as one of India's most influential singers and composers. His distinctive musical style and songs continue to remain popular in India and abroad, he added. Today is his birth anniversary. I extend my greetings to the people of Tripura and the entire country on this occasion. It is a matter of pride that such a great singer and composer was born in connection with Tripura, the Chief Minister said. Chief Minister Saha, who holds the Information and Cultural Affairs portfolio, described Burman as a self-made personality who carved out a place for himself in the world of music through determination and hard work rather than relying on his royal background. He said that Burman's ability to blend classical traditions, including elements of Dhrupad and Hindustani classical music, with folk melodies gave his compositions a distinctive character that continues to resonate with music lovers. Music is something that remains in everyone's heart, CM Saha added. The Chief Minister urged the younger generation to learn more about Burman's life, musical journey and determination, saying his life could inspire people, particularly the youth, to pursue their goals with dedication and self-confidence. Information and Cultural Affairs Secretary Kiran Gitte, Director of Information and Cultural Affairs Bimbisar Bhattacharya and other officials were present at the programme.
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Pre-puja cop crackdown on Gariahat parking
Bengal: Judicial panel probes former Trinamool Minister over loan from farm credit society
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 1 (IANS) A judicial inquiry commission constituted by the West Bengal government to investigate alleged institutional corruption during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress regime has started an investigation against former West Bengal Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty. The investigation relates to allegations that, despite not being a farmer, Chakraborty obtained a loan of Rs 85 lakh from an agricultural cooperative society in the state during the previous regime. It is also alleged that he facilitated another loan for one of his relatives from the same agricultural cooperative society by using his influence as a then state Cabinet minister and ruling party legislator. Chakraborty, a three-time Trinamool Congress legislator from the Jangipara Assembly constituency in Hooghly district between 2011 and 2026, was defeated in the Assembly elections earlier this year by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Prosenjit Bag by less than 1,000 votes. He is currently associated with the Ritabrata Banerjee-led rebel but majority faction in Trinamool Congress. Trinamool Congress legislator Kunal Ghosh, from the Beliaghata Assembly constituency in Kolkata, first alleged the loan from the agricultural cooperative society. Kunal Ghosh is associated with the original but minority faction of Trinamool, led by former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee. Kunal Ghosh alleged that although only farmers were eligible to receive loans from agricultural cooperative societies, Chakraborty secured a loan from the Singti Agricultural Cooperative Society by posing as a farmer, violating lending norms. He also questioned whether Chakraborty had been repaying the loan from the Singti Agricultural Cooperative Society. After Kunal Ghosh flagged the issue, society employees Swapan Patra and activist Ramesh Patra were arrested. The state government-appointed judicial panel has now begun investigating the matter. According to sources, the panel will soon collect relevant documents from the cooperative society. On July 14, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the formation of a judicial commission to investigate allegations of institutional corruption during the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government between 2011 and 2026. Former Calcutta High Court judge Justice Biswajit Basu (Retd) heads the commission. A senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer is supervising the investigation. An Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer is handling the commission's administrative work, while a West Bengal Revenue Service officer oversees its technical aspects.
Handful Of Fans, Heavy Security: Brazil Touch Down In Kolkata Ahead Of India Clash
Five-time world champions Brazil touched down in Kolkata amid tight security on Wednesday evening.
Kolkata airport starts flyer feedback exercise
Trinamool leaders brother-in-law among four held in job fraud case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 1 (IANS) Former Trinamool Congress MLA and district president Ajit Maitys brother-in-law, Govinda Kar, and three others have been arrested in connection with an alleged financial fraud involving promises of jobs, police said on Thursday. The former MLA is already in police custody in the same case following his arrest. Along with his brother-in-law, police also arrested his driver, Amal Bhuiyan, and an associate, Pranab Mandal alias Saheb. On Thursday, police from Kharagpur Local Police Station arrested Govinda Kar from his residence in Madpur. Investigators said they recovered cash and several gold ornaments during the search. Meanwhile, police also raided the residence of Pranab Mandal, a resident of Ajit Maitys native village, Fulgeriya, on Wednesday morning. Police seized several important documents and a laptop during the raid. According to police, Ajit Maity allegedly took Rs 5 lakh from a person on the promise of securing a job in the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS). The complainant alleged that despite paying the amount for his wifes employment in 2025, he did not receive a job. He further claimed that when he sought a refund, he was threatened. Subsequently, on September 26, he lodged a written complaint with Kharagpur Local Police Station. Although Ajit Maity was granted bail in an earlier case in Pingla, he has been in police custody for four days since Tuesday in connection with the new case registered in Kharagpur. The arrested Govinda Kar, Amal Bhuiyan and Pranab Mandal were produced before the Midnapore Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Court on Thursday. Public Prosecutor Syed Nazim Habib said the court had granted two days of police custody for all three accused in the case registered under relevant sections relating to alleged job fraud and non-return of money. Defence counsel Mrinal Chowdhury said Ajit Maity will appear before the court again on October 3. According to the courts order, the three accused will remain in police custody until then.
Mamata Banerjee named in ED statement over probe in money laundering case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 1 (IANS) Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and ex-Cabinet Minister Indranil Sen had been named by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday in relation to the central probe agency's investigation into a case of money laundering, other than that of Mass Art, which had been accused of selling Durga Puja Preview Show Passes in 2024 and 2025. Sen is already under the ED scanner in connection with the Mass Art case. In this particular case, where both Mamata Banerjee and Sen, a singer-turned-politician, had been named by the ED is in relation to the agency's investigation against Sen's proprietorship concern christened Octave Records. According to a statement issued by ED on Thursday evening, during Sen's tenure as the West Bengal Tourism Minister during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government, multiple tenders from both the state tourism as well as cultural departments of more than Rs 85 crore, were awarded to the entities owned by Dhrubajyoti Bose and Dipesh Roy, both of whom were close aides of Sen. These entities subsequently transferred large sums of money to entities controlled by relatives of Indranil Sen. Furthermore, massive cash withdrawals have been observed from the bank accounts of the entities that secured these tenders, the ED statement said. In the same statement, the ED claimed that a detailed investigation in the matter had revealed that cash of more than Rs 3.3 crore was deposited into the bank accounts of Sen and his proprietorship entity, Octave Records. Also, from the bank account of Octave Records, a sum of nearly Rs 30 lakh was transferred via banking channels to Mamata Banerjee, the then Chief Minister of West Bengal, which Indranil Sen has claimed was paid in the form of royalty, the ED statement added. According to the central agency, during search and seizure proceedings, incriminating digital devices and documentary evidence were found and seized under appropriate provisions. Further investigation is under progress, the ED statement said. There was no reaction from the faction in Trinamool Congress, which is still loyal to Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee. Sen too had kept himself incommunicado and hence his reactions were also not available in the matter. As regards to the Mass Art case, ED officials on Tuesday conducted a marathon raid and search operation at the residence of Sen and his wife Madhuchhanda Sen at Kasba in South Kolkata. Sen was also questioned for about 10 hours at ED's Salt Lake office in the matter on Wednesday. The singer-turned-politician on Thursday had been served with a fresh notice asking him to be present at ED's Salt Lake office next week for another round of questioning in the matter.
Bengal: Floods disrupt train services on Sahibganj Loop
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 1 (IANS) Train services on the historic Sahibganj Loop, a key rail link connecting West Bengal, Jharkhand and Bihar, have been severely affected over the past several days after the Ganga eroded the embankment between Sakrigali and Maharajpur stations. The affected stretch forms part of the Sahibganj-Barharwa section of the loop. A large number of personnel are working round the clock at the site to reinforce the embankment with boulders and other materials. While all services on the Down line have been suspended, train movement continues on the Up line under speed restrictions. Eastern Railway (ER) has cancelled several trains and diverted many others. Some trains are also being short-terminated and short-originated. A senior ER official said the situation arose after the water level in the Ganga began rising. At one stage, the river was barely 15 meters from the tracks, and part of the embankment had been eroded. The official said restoration work began after the water receded to a safe distance and that workforce and materials were already in place. This section in Jharkhand forms part of the Sahibganj Loop. Barharwa is a major junction connecting routes towards Sahibganj, Bhagalpur, Rampurhat and Howrah. The Sahibganj Loop holds immense historical significance as part of the original Delhi-Howrah route. The 410-km stretch connects Khana Junction in West Bengal to Kiul Junction in Bihar via Sahibganj. Constructed in the 1860s, it was originally part of the main rail route between Howrah and Delhi. The Railways later built a shorter chord line that could handle higher traffic volumes. That route subsequently became the main line, while the older alignment came to be known as the Sahibganj Loop. The stretch is known for its scenic alignment along the Ganga. However, its proximity to the river has led to operational disruptions during this years floods. Nearly 18 trains, including the Howrah-Sahibganj Intercity Express, have been cancelled. Trains such as the Ballia-Sealdah Express and the Kathgodam-Howrah Bagh Express have been diverted via Munger, Bhagalpur, Banka, Deoghar and the Jasidih Bypass. The Delhi-Kamakhya Brahmaputra Mail and the 15734 Bhatinda-Balurghat Farakka Express will be diverted via Jamalpur, Munger and Katihar. The Gaya-Howrah Express will operate through Kiul, Jhajha and Asansol. The Bhagalpur-Ranchi Vananchal Express and the 13072 Jamalpur-Howrah Express will be diverted via Bhagalpur, Dumka and Rampurhat. If the weather remains favourable, restoration work will be completed soon, and services will return to normal after the necessary clearances, an official said.
Five-time World Cup winners Brazil arrive in Kolkata for India clash
Five-time World Cup winners Brazil arrive in Kolkata for India clash
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 1 (IANS) Former West Bengal Congress President and five-time previous Lok Sabha member, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, on Thursday gave an open call to the former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to directly come under the fold of the Congress leader but after leaving behind her aggage attached to the Trinamool Congress. Mamata Banerjee will take the right decision if she joins Congress directly with the existing MPs and MLAs who are still loyal to her. We will accept it. When she had already taken shelter under the leadership of Congress, which is like a banyan tree, she should join the party directly instead of carrying along a separate entity. She should do that just leaving behind the 'baggage' and the 'one' which is her biggest problem, Chowdhury told media persons. Although Chowdhury did not specify what he exactly meant while using the 'term' baggage, political observers say that this is a clear hint towards Mamata Banerjee's nephew and Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, who is also the party's Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member. The former State Congress President's call in the matter is significant on two counts, political observers say. The first factor is that Mamata Banerjee floated Trinamool Congress in 1998, breaking away from the Congress accusing the then state leadership of the country's oldest national party of not being serious in carrying forward movements against the then CPI-M-led Left Front government in West Bengal. Secondly, Chowdhury, throughout his political career had established his image as a dyed-in-the-wool 'anti-Mamata' personality. Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee attended the INDIA bloc meeting in New Delhi on Wednesday where she spoke to Sonia Gandhi and Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee also supported each other on various issues in the meeting following which Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury's message on Thursday is perceived to be quite significant. There was no however no reaction either from Mamata Banerjee or any of the leaders from the faction led by her in the matter.
Brazil Squad Lands In Kolkata For High-Profile Friendly
Five-time world champions Brazil have arrived in Kolkata for a high-profile friendly match against India. The team's arrival was met with tight security, limiting fan access, though star player Vinicius Junior received a warm reception at the hotel. The Selecao have made extensive preparations, including special dietary arrangements, while India prepares for a series of matches against World Cup teams.
KMC to hold camps to bring govt services to citizens doorsteps
Indranil Sens firm sent nearly Rs 30 lakh to Mamata Benerjee, ED says; ex-minister claims royalty
Calcutta High Court declines interim resumption of prayers at mosque inside Kolkata airport
The Calcutta High Court has adjourned the case regarding prayers at Bankra Mosque until October 7. The mosque predates the airport, which started operations in 1924, and had allowed access for many years. Access to the mosque was stopped on July 11, raising concerns for local worshippers. The Airports Authority of India noted recent security breaches around the area of the mosque.
Bengal GoM clears industrial policy to boost investment
Govt limits sugar stock limit to 1,000 quintals ahead of festive season
The Centre will implement new stock limits for sugar dealers starting October 15 until November 30. The inventory cap has been set at 1,000 quintals with a 15-day holding period. This decision follows a notable decrease in ex-mill sugar prices and aims to control hoarding during the festive season. Kolkata and Assam have been given slightly higher stock limits due to distribution needs.
Bengal plans annual TET, syllabus to fit 200-210 teaching days
Eight BJP supporters injured in North 24-Parganas bomb attack
Kolkata Cardiologists Urge Ayushman Bharat to Revise Pacemaker Rates
Govt tightens sugar stock limit despite 15% fall in prices since August
Dealers can hold sugar for only 15 days from October 15 to November 30, while Kolkata and its extended metropolitan areas, along with Assam, have a 2,000-quintal limit
Snehasish Chakraborty faces probe over Rs 1 crore loan irregularities
Bengal govt plans major Mayapur development project
