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Green Is A World-class Cricketer Who Is Going To Get Better With Time, Says Shane Watson
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) assistant coach Shane Watson has hailed Australias seam bowling all-rounder Cameron Green as a world-class cricketer who, in his view, will only get better with time. Green emerged as the headline signing of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi, as three-time champions KKR secured him for a record-breaking Rs 25.20 crore. It made Green the most expensive overseas player in IPL history and the third-costliest buy in all after India internationals Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer. I'm going to initially talk from my selfish point of view, okay? I've always been a massive fan of Cameron Green. I'm an all-rounder at heart, so I know what it takes to push the limits to be the best all-rounder that you possibly can be. And I've always absolutely loved everything about Cameron Green - the way he goes about his skill set as a batter, and his incredible skill set as a bowler as well. He's got incredible height, he's got incredible skill, and I've been wanting to have a chance to be able to work with him really closely. I've had a number of conversations with him over the years, to be able to just help him wherever he needs it. But I haven't had a chance to work with him in a team and help him on his journey to be the very best that he possibly can be. Now, because of KKR, I get a chance to be able to work with him and pass on my knowledge that I was so fortunate to be able to gain throughout my playing days, playing with so many incredible players, said Watson in a video posted by the franchise on their YouTube channel on Sunday. In the run-up to the auction, there was chatter on who between KKR and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) would get Green, and the former prevailed. Watson also said Green will further grow as an all-round T20 player by being in the KKR set-up. From a KKR perspective, to be able to have someone who can bat in the top three (he has scored IPL hundreds in those positions) or if needed, he also can bat at six and seven, and power hit - he's an incredible power hitter. That makes him incredibly versatile. He is also a world-class fast bowler. He's tall, he gets bounce, and he's also got more to be able to grow from a bowling perspective. He's got Dwayne Bravo and also Andre Russell to work with, along with me, to develop his T20 bowling skills. Hes a super nice guy, he's a great team man, so look, you can see why the bids went up so high for him. We were adamant to be able to get him, because we knew the calibre of cricketer he is, and he's a young guy too. He's 26, so he's got a lot of years of IPL cricket left in him. I'm so stoked to be able to have a chance to work with him; weve certainly got a world-class cricketer who is only, in my opinion, going to get better with time, he added. KKR also got the services of New Zealand opener Finn Allen for a base price of Rs 2 crore, and Watson explained the rationale behind getting him into the squad. Finn Allen is really starting to realise just how good he is. His skill sets are unique and rare. I worked with him for three years at the San Francisco Unicorns (in Major League Cricket, USA), and I believe he hasn't reached his ceiling yet. He's nowhere near reaching his ceiling, and he's already done some pretty spectacular things on the cricket field so far. I was pretty vocal about how good he was and how big a pick he could be for us, because in the IPL, he's been an unknown entity. He hasn't played much, even though he was at RCB for a couple of seasons. KKR also got the services of New Zealand opener Finn Allen for a base price of Rs 2 crore, and Watson explained the rationale behind getting him into the squad. Finn Allen is really starting to realise just how good he is. His skill sets are unique and rare. I worked with him for three years at the San Francisco Unicorns (in Major League Cricket, USA), and I believe he hasn't reached his ceiling yet. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He can take down the best bowlers in the world and has done that throughout his career. I'm thrilled to be working with him again and continuing to support him on his journey. I know the rest of the leadership group at KKR are feeling the same way as well, knowing the incredible skill that Finn's got, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Bhutia criticises chaos in Messi's Kolkata event: 'Sports should get priority'
Former India football captain Bhaichung Bhutia has criticized the chaotic public event for Lionel Messi in Kolkata, emphasizing that sports should always take priority over politics and unnecessary formalities. He highlighted that fans attend to watch the sport and players, not lengthy speeches or VIP arrivals, and hopes the incident serves as a lesson for future event organizers.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, speaking in Kolkata, voiced concerns about live-in relationships, deeming them an unwillingness to accept responsibility. He suggested renunciation for those avoiding marriage. Bhagwat also shared insights from experts, recommending early marriage (19-25) and three children for health and ego management, while acknowledging his personal lack of experience in these matters.
Sports must get priority over political, bureaucratic formalities: Bhaichung Bhutia
Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia criticized the chaos at Lionel Messi's Kolkata event, advocating for sports to take priority over political formalities. He emphasized that fans attend to watch the sport and players, not for lengthy speeches or VIP delays. Bhutia hopes the incident serves as a lesson for future sporting events.
Convincing wins for Ugandas Cheptegei and Ethiopias Degitu
Gulveer Singh and Seema, the best home runners, rewrite Indian event records in the 10thTata Steel World 25K Kolkata
Cameron Green Important For Us, Needed Someone To Take The Franchise Forward: Nayar
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Abhishek Nayar has defended the franchises record-breaking move for Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, describing him as a long-term investment to take the three-time IPL champions forward following the retirement of Andre Russell. Green emerged as the headline signing of the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi last week after KKR secured him for a record-breaking Rs 25.20 crore, making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL history and the third-costliest buy overall after Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer. Explaining the franchises aggressive approach at the auction, Nayar told JioStar that KKR were determined to land Green and were unconcerned about the price tag, saying, I can't say how high we were willing to go for him, but we wanted to go all out. If we have the money, we spend it. There was no point in saving the money. The idea was to do whatever we could to get Green because he is a very important player for us. With Andre Russell gone, we need someone to take the franchise forward. So, we decided we must have Cameron Green. Nayar also revealed that KKR see Green as a key top-order batter capable of delivering consistently across the season. We see Cameron Green batting in the top three. He is a player who can score 500 runs for us. That is why we were so desperate to get him. We know he has that ability. He has scored over 500 runs in the IPL before, so he can do well in the top order. He solves different problems for us, he added. The head coach highlighted the importance of top-order contributions in KKRs past successes. Over the past few years, our success came when our top three players scored more than 400 runs. The hope is that he can score big runs for us. Nayar also revealed that KKR see Green as a key top-order batter capable of delivering consistently across the season. We see Cameron Green batting in the top three. He is a player who can score 500 runs for us. That is why we were so desperate to get him. We know he has that ability. He has scored over 500 runs in the IPL before, so he can do well in the top order. He solves different problems for us, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score However, he acknowledged the challenge posed by rival franchises during the bidding process. We tried, but RCB always seems to go after our players. This year they got him. Venkatesh has been phenomenal for us over the years, and I wish him all the best in his new IPL journey. Article Source: IANS
Bengal SIR: ECI to seek explanations from BLOs on doubtful cases in draft voters list
Kolkata: The Election Commission of India (ECI) will take written explanations from the booth-level officers (BLOs) engaged in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal on the doubtful cases in the draft voters list, which was published on December 16. Insiders from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, said 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 .
Top 5 cities in India to celebrate this Christmas holiday 2025 with lights and cheer
Christmas spirit is already alive across India, with cities offering diverse ways to celebrate. From Goa's relaxed charm and Shillong's intimate warmth to Puducherry's gentle pace, Mumbai's inclusive energy, and Kolkata's vibrant street festivities, each destination provides a unique experience. These five cities beautifully capture the season's joy, lights, and shared warmth.
You were there in person, Lobo Lobo? Kolkata or Mumbai?
Souvik Ghosh At a time when political ambition is often wrapped in calculation, Shashi Tharoors entry into Indian politics was shaped by doubt, family anxiety, and personal conviction. That story unfolded with rare intimacy at a tte--tea hosted by the Prabha Khaitan Foundation, in association with Sanskriti Sagar and FICCI FLO Kolkata, where Tharoor appeared alongside his sisters Shobha and Smita. What followed was not a political speech, but a deeply personal conversation-about motherhood, fear, idealism, and the cost of [] The post The man who defied his mother appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
How to make Kolkata-style jhalmuri at home for evening snacks
Kolkata-style jhalmuri offers a perfect evening snack. This dish is fresh, spicy, and tangy. It requires no cooking or long preparation. Simple ingredients are mixed quickly to create a crunchy and flavorful experience. The key is balancing flavors and textures. Jhalmuri is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. It becomes an easy evening ritual for many.
PM Modi posts on CAA, Lionel Messi mess to target TMC
Prime Minister Modi took to X after leaving Kolkata, addressing CAA concerns for Matua and Namasudra communities, assuring them of dignity and rights. He also criticized Trinamool Congress over the Salt Lake Stadium incident and alleged infiltration from Bangladesh. Trinamool countered, calling his statements damage control and questioning his script.
Dont Join Politics: Why Shashi Tharoor Defied His Mother And Chose Conviction Over Comfort
By Souvik Ghosh At a time when political ambition is often wrapped in calculation, Shashi Tharoors entry into Indian politics was shaped by doubt, family anxiety, and personal conviction. That story unfolded with rare intimacy at atte--tea hosted by the Prabha Khaitan Foundation, in association withSanskriti Sagar and FICCI FLO Kolkata, where Tharoor appeared []
Sesa FA stumbleagainst Garhwal Utd
NT Reporter Panaji Sesa FA suffered a 3-1 defeat to Garhwal United FC in an Indian Womens League clash at the National Centre of Excellence (NCE), Kolkata on Saturday. Garhwal United raced into a commanding lead through Lhingdeikim (12), Sanfida Nongrum (15) and Deepika Pal (45+4), all in the first half. Sesa FAs Sarjida Khatun [] The post Sesa FA stumbleagainst Garhwal Utd appeared first on The Navhind Times .
PM Modi slams maha jungle raj in West Bengal, seeks BJP vote
Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lashed out at the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, calling the states prevailing situation maha jungle raj and alleging that corruption, nepotism and appeasement of the ruling dispensation have prevented development in the state. Addressing a massive gathering at Taherpur in Nadia district over the phone from Kolkata, 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 .
Kolkata chaos: Messi's event derailed after a 'influential person' reached stadium?
Lionel Messi's event organiser, Satadru Dutta, revealed the footballer disliked physical contact, leading to his early departure. Dutta claimed an influential person disrupted crowd control plans, allowing unauthorized access. Messi reportedly received Rs 89 crore for the tour, with Rs 11 crore paid in tax. Investigations into security lapses and financial dealings are ongoing.
Ahmedabad Metro to add Made-in-India trains to its Hyundai Rotem fleet
The train manufactured from Kolkata will join a set of 32 trains supplied by South Korean firm Hyundai Rotem for Phase-1 of Ahmedabad metro, which include trainsets imported directly from South Korea
PM Modi's silence on voter deletions during West Bengal rally irks Matuas
KOLKATA: As the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal puts thousands of Matua community members at a risk of losing Indian citizenship, Prime Minister Modi's silence during his rally in West Bengal has sparked sharp criticism from the ruling Trinamool Congress. While addressing the crowd at the Taherpur rally, a Matua-dominated region of the state, the PM started his audio message from Kolkata airport saying Jai Netai, and remembered the roles of social reformers such as Harichand Thakur, Guruchand Thakur and Baroma. However, the PM did not address a major issue plaguing the Matua community as thousands of names were deleted from the voters lists following the 2025 SIR process. Jai Netai is a devotional slogan used to venerate Nityananda Prabhu, a primary figure in Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition, which is closely associated with the Matua Mahasangha, a significant social and religious reform movement in Bengal. Matuas attending the rally were expecting the PM to address the mass name deletions. Many were excluded from the 2025 draft rolls due to their absence from the 2002 electoral rolls. A majority of the Matuas who had migrated from Bangladesh are Hindus. Aggrieved Matuas staged demonstrations on Saturday in different parts of Ranaghat parliamentary area, a politically significant belt for BJP, demanding that their citizenship be secured. The agitators shouted slogans such as Go Back Modi. The PM could not attend reach the rally site as dense fog had prevented his helicopter from landing at the makeshift helipad in Taherpur this morning. BJP sources said, We had a phenomenal rise in since 2019 Lok Sabha elections in North 24 Parganas, Nadia and parts of Jalpaiguri because Matuas voted for us. But a large section of Matuas anxious about the SIR outcome that deleted thousands of voters belonging to the community. Modiji didnt say anything about their crisis during the rally, and it is upsetting for Matuas, the sources added. TMC Rajya Sabha MP Mamatabala Thakur, belonging to the Matua community, said, BJP has been giving false promises to the community for a long time, but our Prime Minister has nothing more to give them. Instead, he has taken away their voting rights what they used to enjoy in elections. BJP has got Matua votes by giving them false promises. Out of 17 Matua-dominated assembly constituencies in Nadia and North 24 Parganas district, BJP had won all the seats in 2021 assembly polls. The saffron party had also won Ranaghat and Bongaon Lok Sabha seats in Matua belts in 2024 elections. Interestingly, around 85,000 Matua voters names in Bongaon sub-division have been deleted from the electoral rolls following the SIR. Since the SIR kick-started in Bengal, the BJP has asked Matuas not to worry and has launched a massive drive to facilitate citizenship for eligible members of the community.
Messi was 'unhappy' with being touched at Kolkata event, arrested main organiser tells SIT
Satadru Dutta, the main organizer of the Lionel Messi event in Kolkata, has revealed the football star was unhappy with being touched and hugged by fans. Messi reportedly left the Salt Lake Stadium before his scheduled time due to the overwhelming crowd.
West Bengal Was Shamed Courtesy TMC: PM Modi Targets Mamata Banerjee Govt Over Messi Event
The controversy surrounding Lionel Messis visit to Kolkata escalated after high-profile event at Salt Lake Stadium ended in chaos, triggering public anger and political fallout.
Messi left Kolkata stadium as he was 'unhappy with being touched, hugged': Chief organiser tells SIT
Satadru Dutta, the arrested main organiser of the Kolkata event featuring football giant Lionel Messi, has told a Special Investigation Team (SIT) that the Argentine legend left the Salt Lake Stadium within minutes of his appearance on December 13 --resulting in chaos-- as he was unhappy with being touched or hugged, reported PTI. According to the report citing sources from the SIT, Dutta also disclosed that the much-awaited event ended in chaos and violence after a very influential person reached the stadium and increased the number of ground passes issued by three times. The organiser also claimed that after the influential person entered the stadium, the entire flowchart of the event got disturbed and he was unable to control it. During his interrogation on Friday, Dutta told the investigators that Messi did not like being touched on the back or being hugged and that the concern had been conveyed in advance by the foreign security officials responsible for the footballer's protection. Despite repeated public announcements to restrain the crowd, there was no impact. The manner in which Messi was surrounded and embraced was completely unacceptable to the World Cup-winning footballer, Dutta told investigators, according to sources. Dutta claimed that initially only 150 ground passes were issued, which, however, was tripled when a very influential person reached the stadium and overpowered him. The arrested accused also claimed that once that particular influential person reached the stadium, all the flow-chart for the Messi programme got disturbed and he could not control it, an official was quoted as saying by PTI. Police are examining whether the expanded access directly contributed to the breakdown of crowd control. They are also probing how such a large number of people gained access to the ground area. West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas was seen in close proximity to Messi throughout the programme, with visuals showing him holding the footballer around the waist while posing for photographs. Biswas has been accused of using his influence to allow relatives and personal acquaintances access to Messi. Amid mounting criticism , he resigned from his post as sports minister pending completion of the investigation. Dutta also disclosed financial details related to Messi's India visit. Lionel Messi was paid Rs 89 crore for the tour, while Rs 11 crore was paid as tax to the Indian government, he told investigators, placing the total expenditure at Rs 100 crore. Of this amount, 30 per cent was sourced from sponsors, while another 30 per cent was generated through ticket sales, sources said. Meanwhile, an amount of over Rs 20 crore was found in the frozen bank accounts of Dutta by the officers of the SIT, the officer said. On Friday, following the raids at Dutta's house, sleuths of the SIT seized several documents, he added. Dutta claimed that the amount in his bank account was the money which he got from selling the tickets for the Messi event in Kolkata and Hyderabad and also from the sponsors. We are verifying his claims, the officer said. Thousands of spectators had purchased high-priced tickets to attend the event at Salt Lake Stadium, but the programme descended into chaos as a large number of people crowded around Messi on the field, making him barely visible from the galleries and triggering anger among fans, some of whom later vandalised parts of the stadium. The West Bengal government had set up the Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising senior IPS officers Piyush Pandey, Javed Shamim, Supratim Sarkar and Muralidhar to investigate the vandalism at Argentine football star Lionel Messi's event at the Salt Lake stadium. The SIT is also investigating security lapses, access violations, and the role of organisers and officials in the incident, the officer added. (With inputs from PTI) 'We travelled all the way...': Heartbreak for fans as organisers mess up Messi event in Kolkata
Photos: Protest against Waqf Act in Kolkata
Members of the All Bengal Imam Muazzin Association and Charitable Trust (WB State Committee) take part in a protest march opposing the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, and demanding the protection of Waqf properties, in Kolkata, Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025. (PTI Kolkata: Members of the All Bengal Imam Muazzin Association and Charitable Trust (WB State Committee) 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 .
An uphill battle beckons the likes of Simbu, Cheptegei and Kebede in Kolkata 25K
Asian 5,000m and 10,000m champion Gulveer Singh and Sanjivani Jadhav will defend their mens and womens titles in the Indian category
Rs 30 Lakh For Photo With Messi: Organiser Satadru Duttas Kolkata Home Raided
Police claimed that amounts ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 30 lakh were charged for photographs taken with Messi.
The Kolkata police's special investigation team (SIT) raided Satadru Dutta's luxurious three-storey home in Rishra early Saturday, following a visit to the local police station. A team of five officers entered the property, where only a domestic help was present.
Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan: 'Disappointed' to witness naqab row'
Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan voiced disappointment regarding the controversy after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar removed a doctor's veil. The incident occurred during an appointment letter distribution event. The doctor's family stated they wish to avoid media attention. They also denied traveling to Kolkata and expressed no anger towards the Chief Minister or the government.
Will End Maha Jungle Raj In Bengal; TMC Making People Suffer To Oppose BJP: PM
KOLKATA, Dec 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lashed out at the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, calling the states prevailing situation maha jungle raj and alleging that corruption, nepotism and appeasement of the ruling dispensation have prevented development in the state. Addressing a massive gathering at Taherpur in Nadia district over the phone from Kolkata, Modi urged the people to provide a chance to the BJP in the upcoming assembly polls to form a double engine government in [] The post Will End Maha Jungle Raj In Bengal; TMC Making People Suffer To Oppose BJP: PM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi unveils key connectivity initiatives, takes a hit at opposition in poll-bound West Bengal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two national highway projects worth Rs. 3,200 crore in West Bengal's Nadia district, enhancing connectivity between Kolkata and Siliguri and reducing travel time. His visit also served as a prelude to the upcoming assembly polls, where he criticized the TMC's governance and urged voters to support the BJP.
Modi targets TMC over infiltration, says Bihar results 'opened doors' for BJP victory in Bengal
Results from the recently-concluded Bihar assembly elections have opened up doors for the BJPs victory in West Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, addressing a rally in Taherpur virtually after dense fog prevented his helicopter from landing at the venue. Owing to low visibility, the prime ministers helicopter made a U-turn after hovering briefly over the makeshift helipad in Taherpur and returned to Kolkata airport, officials said. This was Modis first visit to the state since the draft SIR rolls were published and his third in the past five months. The trip comes amid heightened political tensions over the ongoing SIR exercise, during which he was scheduled to inaugurate national highway projects and address a public rally. Today the country wants rapid development. Bihar once again gave the NDA government a massive mandate for development...Bihar has also paved the way for the BJP's victory in Bengal, Modi said. Drawing parallels with his jungle raj claims against the RJD in Bihar, PM Modi took aim at the Trinamool Congress (TMC), saying the BJP would end its Maha jungle raj in West Bengal. Bihar has rejected the rule of the 'jungle raj' with one resounding voice. Even after 20 years, they have given the BJP-NDA more seats than before.... We will end TMC's 'Maha jungle raj' in Bengal, where corruption, nepotism, appeasement politics are ruling the roost, he said. Let TMC oppose me and BJP as much as it wants, but Bengals progress should not be stopped, the priminister added. Modi also alleged that infiltrators enjoyed the TMCs patronage in the state and claimed the party was opposing the SIR exercise to prevent them from being identified.
PM Modi arrived in Kolkata at 10:40 am and departed for Nadia. However, due to dense fog, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter was unable to land at the Taherpur helipad in West Bengal.
PM Modi's Chopper Fails To Land In Bengal Town Due To Fog, Returns To Kolkata
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to West Bengal's Nadia has been delayed due to dense fog. His helicopter returned to Kolkata airport after failing to land at the Taherpur helipad due to low visibility this afternoon.
Modi addresses Taherpur rally virtually after dense fog prevents PMs helicopter from landing
The PMs chopper made a U-turn after hovering over the helipad ground for a while and returned to the Kolkata airport
Low Visibility Prevents PMs Helicopter From Landing In Taherpur, Modi Returns To Kolkata Airport
KOLKATA, Dec 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modis helicopter failed to land at the Taherpur helipad in West Bengal owing to low visibility on account of dense fog in the area on Saturday, an official said. The PMs chopper made a U-turn after hovering over the helipad ground for a while and returned to the Kolkata airport, he said. Till reports last received, the Prime Minister was waiting at the airport for further updates on the weather situation. It wasnt immediately [] The post Low Visibility Prevents PMs Helicopter From Landing In Taherpur, Modi Returns To Kolkata Airport appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi returns to Kolkata airport after low visibility prevents helicopter landing in Taherpur
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter could not land at Taherpur in West Bengal on Saturday. Dense fog caused low visibility. The helicopter returned to Kolkata airport. The Prime Minister was waiting for weather updates. It is unclear if he will travel by road or attempt an aerial route later. He was scheduled for an administrative program and a BJP rally.
PM Modi's helicopter fails to land in West Bengal's Taherpur; returns safely to Kolkata
Mohammed Shami to spearhead Bengal pace attack in Vijay Hazare Trophy
Kolkata: Out-of-favour India pacer Mohammed Shami, who has been in impressive form on the domestic circuit with 36 wickets across formats, has been named in Bengals squad for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day competition. Shami, who has not played for India for a while and was overlooked for the recent series against South Africa, 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 .
PM Modi to address first rally in West Bengal since draft roll release amid SIR concerns of Matuas
KOLKATA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit West Bengal's Nadia district on Saturday, where he will inaugurate national highway projects and address a public rally, amid heightened political tensions over the ongoing SIR exercise in the state. This would be Modi's first visit to the state since the draft SIR rolls were published, and the third in the past five months. The Prime Minister, political observers said, is scheduled to address the growing unease amongst the Matua community members post the publication of the draft rolls from his strategically located BJP rally venue in Taherpur area of Ranaghat, not far from the heartland of the Namasudra Hindu community in adjacent Bongaon. In the process, Modi is likely to sound the BJP's bugle for the assembly polls, which are due in the state early next year and finalise the roadmap for the party's big push for the crucial elections. The people of West Bengal are benefiting from numerous pro-people initiatives of the central government. At the same time, they are suffering due to the TMC's misgovernance in every sector, PM posted on X on Friday evening while announcing his visit. The loot and intimidation of the TMC have crossed all limits. That is why, BJP is the people's hope, he added. The PM's visit comes at a time when the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress has mounted sustained opposition to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging that the exercise is being carried out in haste and that a large number of genuine voters, particularly refugee Hindus, risk disenfranchisement on its account. In the draft electoral rolls published after the enumeration phase, 58,20,899 names have been excluded, reducing the electorate to 7.08 crore. Around 1.36 crore entries have also been flagged for logical discrepancies, while 30 lakh voters have been categorised as unmapped a significant percentage of whom are likely to be called for verification hearings over the next 45 days. For Matuas, a Dalit Hindu community that migrated from Bangladesh over decades due to religious persecution, this exercise has revived anxieties over identity and documentation. Political observers widely believe that the community members hold sway in as many as 80 of the 294 assembly seats in the state. Speculations are rife that significant numbers of Matuas have already been excluded from draft rolls. Many more are likely to follow suit in the final rolls on account of the unavailability of the EC-specified indicative documents they need to produce in the eventuality of receiving hearing notices during the verification phase. Over the past years, poll results have indicated that the BJP gained significant inroads within the community, promising them formal Indian citizenship. BJP MP Jagannath Sarkar, who represents the Ranaghat Lok Sabha seat, where Taherpur is located, claimed that fear was being spread deliberately among the Matuas about SIR. We are hopeful that the PM's message would dispel those fears and canards, he said. Chief Minister Banerjee has already led anti-SIR rallies in Nadia and North 24 Parganas, the two adjoining districts that share a border with Bangladesh and have a significant Matua presence. During his visit, the PM will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for two national highway projects worth around Rs 3,200 crore. He will inaugurate the 66.7-km-long four-laning of the Barajaguli-Krishnanagar section of NH-34 in Nadia district and lay the foundation stone for the four-laning of the 17.6-km-long Barasat Barajaguli section in North 24 Parganas district. The projects are expected to serve as a vital connecting link between Kolkata and Siliguri, boosting trade, tourism and economic activity across southern and northern parts of the state, officials said.
PM to address 1st rally in Bengal on Saturday after draft roll release
Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit West Bengals Nadia district on Saturday, where he will inaugurate national highway projects and address a public rally, amid heightened political tensions over the ongoing SIR exercise in the state. This would be Modis first visit to the state since the draft SIR rolls were published, 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 .
12 Flights Cancelled as Poor Visibility Hits Jammu, Srinagar Airports
SRINAGAR: Widespread fog over North India disrupted air traffic on Friday, severely affecting operations at Srinagar and Jammu airports, with 12 flights cancelled and a further 18 delayed. At Srinagar International Airport, seven flights were cancelled, and twelve were delayed due to poor visibility and adverse weather at departure points, including Delhi, Amritsar and Kolkata. []
Hijab row: Bihar official claims Dr Nusrat will join duty on December 20
PATNA: The ongoing hijab controversy involving Bihar CM Nitish Kumar is likely to be resolved after an official said on Friday that the Muslim woman doctor, whose hijab was pulled off by Nitish, would join the duty on Saturday (December 20). Principal of Government Tibbi College and Hospital in Patna, Dr Mahfoozur Rahman, claimed that Ayush doctor Nusrat Parveens family confirmed that she would join the duty. Dr Nusrat is a first-year postgraduate student in the same college. Dr Ramman told media persons that Praveens family had confirmed that she would join the duty on Saturday. I spoke to Parveens husband, relatives and her classmates. They told me that she would join duty on December 20. She has to first join the Government Tibbi College and Hospital, and later she will be shifted to her place of posting. Her family members and classmates have assured me that she would join duty, Rahman said. A day earlier, Bihar health minister Mangal Pandey said that he had not known that the concerned female doctor might not join her duty. I have no such information, was the terse reply of Pandey when journalists asked about reports that the AYUSH doctor Nusrat Parveen, who hails from Kolkata, has declined the government job following the hijab incident. Pandey, however, sought to put a lid on the controversy by asserting that the NDA in the State has always worked for the empowerment of women. He said that the issue was being blown up proportionately by the media and some organisations. Social worker files complaint against Bihar CM Nitish Kumar in Ranchi following hijab row A major political row was triggered after Nitish, while distributing appointment letters to doctors, pulled down the hijab of Parveen. The video capturing those moments went viral on social media. Parveen was among 10 Ayush doctors who had turned up at the Chief Minister's Secretariat on Monday to receive their letters of appointment. When Parveen's turn came, the 75-year-old CM pointed towards her veil (Hijab) and exclaimed 'What is this?' before pulling it down and exposing her face. Later, there were rumours that Parveen had declined the job. Meanwhile, the health department has given a 15-day ultimatum to 19 AYUSH doctors who have not joined since July. Nusarat Parveen is among them. The department clarified that those who would not join within the stipulated period would be construed as not wanting to join. Security beefed up for Bihar CM Nitish following hijab controversy We can not keep the post vacant for long as it was hampering the work and people were made to suffer due to the shortage of manpower, a senior health department official said. Nitishs security has been tightened in the wake of a video threat message from a Pakistan-based underworld don over the controversy. The Cyber police station in Patna has registered a case against the underworld don and initiated a probe. Director General of police Vinay Kumar said that the case has been handed over to Patna Inspector General of Police Jitendra Rana to monitor the investigation. Since the case is sensitive, we have entrusted Patna IG to monitor the investigation, he told the media. The incident has drawn criticism from far and wide, including many West Asian countries, and the JD (U) president is facing accusations of disrespecting Muslim traditions, allegedly in line with the 'RSS agenda'. Union minister and BJP MP Giriraj Singh, however, defended Nitishs action and said that it does not matter whether she joins duty or not. Woh refuse kare ya jahannum mein jaye (She can refuse or go to hell), Singh told reporters on the Parliament premises on Thursday when asked about the doctors reported decision not to take up the job. 'She can go to hell': BJP Minister Giriraj Singh defends Nitish Kumar over hijab removal incident involving Muslim doctor
Kolkata 25K | Cheptegei says he is done with the track, shifts his focus to marathon running
Ethiopian Kebede is prepared to accomplish a hat-trick of wins in the womens section; among the top Indians, 5000m and 10,000m Asian champion Gulveer says he would try to carry forward his good form into 2026
DNA TV Show: Why is IPL featuring Bangladeshi players?
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) spent a whopping Rs 9.20 crore to buy Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman in the IPL 2026 auction.
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Pant Appointed As Delhis Captain, Kohli Confirms Availability
Vijay Hazare Trophy: India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been named as Delhis captain for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, starting on December 24 in Bengaluru. Delhis squad has also been boosted by the availability of batting stalwart Virat Kohli, as well as senior pacers Ishant Sharma and Navdeep Saini. With BCCI making a mandate for India players with central contracts to feature in domestic cricket, seam-bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana will link up with the Delhi side once he becomes available, said the DDCA on Friday. The senior mens selection committee met at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday to finalise Delhis squad from a bumper list of probables announced earlier. The meeting was attended by selectors Yashpal Singh, K. Bhaskar Pillai and Manu Nayar, chief coach Sarandeep Singh, CAC member Robin Singh (Jr.), secretary Ashok Sharma and joint secretary Amit Grover. Delhi will play its first two Elite Group D games in the Vijay Hazare Trophy against Andhra and Gujarat at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which serves as Kohli's home ground when playing for his IPL team Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Delhi is also scheduled to play its remaining five games at the Alur Cricket Ground, on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Kohli comes on the back of being Player of the Series in the 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa, while Pant will be itching to get some game time after being an unused player in the 50-over fixtures against the Proteas. The duo will be available for Delhi till Indias ODI series against New Zealand happens from January 11-17, 2026. Kohli last played Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi in the 2009/10 season. Kohli comes on the back of being Player of the Series in the 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa, while Pant will be itching to get some game time after being an unused player in the 50-over fixtures against the Proteas. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ranjan and Tejasvi had recently bagged IPL 2026 deals after being roped in by three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the recent auction held in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Delhi won the Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2012/13, while being runners-up in 2015/16 and 2018/19 seasons. Article Source: IANS
5th T20I: Gill Unavailable For Selection After Sustaining Impact Injury To Right Foot
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: India vice-captain Shubman Gill was ruled out of the fifth and final T20I against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday after sustaining an impact injury to his right foot during a net session in Lucknow on December 16. Gill was replaced in the playing eleven by wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, who will slot in as the opener alongside left-hander Abhishek Sharma. The move could have happened in the fourth T20I at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, but it was abandoned due to excessive fog. Shubman Gill sustained an impact injury to his right foot while batting in the nets on 16th December in Lucknow. After consulting a specialist and getting treatment with the BCCI medical team, he is improving but will be unavailable for selection for the final T20I in Ahmedabad, said the BCCI in its statement on Friday. The development comes at a time when Gills place in Indias T20I set-up is under scrutiny, with competition intensifying due to the presence of Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Gill, 25, has been Indias preferred opener alongside Abhishek since his elevation to vice-captaincy in T20I, a role he assumed after being appointed the Test captain and would later become the ODI skipper. Shubman Gill sustained an impact injury to his right foot while batting in the nets on 16th December in Lucknow. After consulting a specialist and getting treatment with the BCCI medical team, he is improving but will be unavailable for selection for the final T20I in Ahmedabad, said the BCCI in its statement on Friday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gill had come into the T20I series after recovering from a neck injury sustained in the first Test against the Proteas at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata and went through rehab at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (COE) in Bengaluru. Article Source: IANS
The plum, walnut, almond and rum caramelised and infused into Christmas cakes become secret coordinates of a map back to Kolkatas past
ED Files Supplementary Chargesheet in Chinese Gaming App Case
New Delhi, Dec 19: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a supplementary chargesheet against a Chinese-operated online gaming app, Fiewin, accused of fraudulently generating about Rs 400 crore from Indian players during the Covid period. The supplementary prosecution complaint was filed on December 8 before a PMLA court in Kolkata. Two individualsUtkarsh Arya and Sujit [] The post ED Files Supplementary Chargesheet in Chinese Gaming App Case appeared first on Northlines .
ED Files Fresh Chargesheet Against Chinese Gaming App That Operated During Covid Period
New Delhi, Dec 19: The Enforcement Directorate has filed a fresh chargesheet against an online gaming app that was being operated by Chinese nationals in India during the Covid pandemic years, leading to fraudulent generation of Rs 400 crore from the players. The first prosecution complaint (chargesheet) against the application named Fiewin was filed by the federal probe agency in October 2024, before a Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court located in Kolkata. The agency had arrested three persons [] The post ED Files Fresh Chargesheet Against Chinese Gaming App That Operated During Covid Period appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Nitish Kumar niqab row: Women protest in Kolkata, demand apology from CM
Kolkata: A large number of women on Thursday evening took out a protest march in Kolkata over Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar publicly removing the veil from the face of a female doctor during a recent programme in Patna. The rallyists, raising slogans and holding placards, asserted that Kumars action hurt the dignity of women. 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 .
KOLKATA: Sourav Ganguly has slapped a Rs 50 crore defamation suit notice on an official of a Kolkata-based football fan club for falsely dragging his name into the Lionel Messi fiasco and making derogatory and defamatory public statements about the former India cricket captain. Cricketer-turned-sports administrator Ganguly had also lodged a police complaint against Uttam Saha of 'Argentina Football Fan Club' on Thursday. Besides the police complaint, I have sent this official of the football fan club a Rs 50 crore legal notice. They keep saying anything that comes to their mind, Ganguly told PTI . Saha, while speaking to a journalist, had accused Ganguly of being the actual man behind organising Messi's G.O.A.T India tour and alleged that it's now-arrested prime organiser Satadru Dutta was only a front. In his complaint emailed to the Cyber Cell of the Kolkata Police, Ganguly said the person's statements have adversely affected his reputation and mental peace. The complaint states that he deliberately levelled serious allegations against Ganguly without any factual basis, a police officer said, adding that an investigation in currently underway based on the complaint. Messi tour organiser denied bail, remanded to 14 days police custody over Kolkata stadium vandalism Ganguly added in the complaint that such aseless allegations appear to be an attempt to tarnish his hard-earned reputation. In his e-mail, Ganguly stated that in his professional career, spanning over several decades, he earned a reputation in the country and worldwide as a sportsperson and sports administrator and that aseless statements aim to tarnish that image. Ganguly was scheduled to remain on the platform to felicitate the Argentine football legend and his entourage alongside Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other dignitaries on December 13, but the programme was cancelled in the wake of widespread spectator rampage inside the Salt Lake stadium following Messi's premature exit from the venue. Messis Kolkata event chaos: Suvendu Adhikari seeks court-monitored probe, rejects state panel
Abhishek club asked for logo on Messi day jersey
KOLKATA: TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjees Diamond Harbour Football Club (DHFC) had on November 10 approved use of DHFC logo by sports organiser Satadru Dutta on jerseys with photos of football legend Lionel Messi in a charity match between Mohun Bagan All Star and Diamond Harbour All Star during Messis event at Salt Lake Stadium on December 13. Abhisheks cousin Akash Banerjee, a vice president of DHFC, had written to Satadru, saying, We are pleased to inform you that you may use the Diamond Harbour Football Club logo for the stated purpose, in connection with the charity football match and related promotional activities mentioned in your request letter. We request that the logo be used in accordance with the clubs branding guidelines and solely for the approved event. Akashs letter to Satadru prompted the Opposition to point out TMCs close link with the Messi event organiser. The BJP has been alleging that Satadrus arrest, hours after the chaos at the stadium, was a damage control move as TMC leaders and ministers were to be blamed for the incident.
Gavaskar slams Messi for Kolkata ruckus - 'Failed to honour commitment'
Sunil Gavaskar challenges the narrative blaming Kolkata's Messi event on the organisers. He argues the focus should be on whether Messi himself fulfilled his commitments. Gavaskar suggests that if Messi's team failed to honour agreed-upon activities, they, not local mismanagement, were the primary culprits. He urges checking commitments on both sides before assigning blame.
Former Indian cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly has taken legal action against an Argentine football fan club's portfolio holder for allegedly making derogatory remarks about him on social media. He's sent a legal notice and plans to file a Rs 50 crore defamation suit, seeking damages.
Goenka Group commits Rs 15,800 cr investment in Bengal
Kolkata: Sanjiv Goenka, Chairman of the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, on Thursday announced a capital expenditure plan totalling Rs 15,800 crore aimed at bolstering infrastructure across energy, education, and healthcare sectors in West Bengal. Addressing the Business and Industry Conclave 2025 here, he praised the decisive leadership of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, which facilitates [] The post Goenka Group commits Rs 15,800 cr investment in Bengal appeared first on The Navhind Times .
Venkatesh Iyer To Lead Madhya Pradesh In Vijay Hazare Trophy In Ahmedabad
Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association: Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) on Thursday selected Venkatesh Iyer as captain of their men's senior team for the Vijay Hazare Trophy league stage, which will be held in Ahmedabad from December 24 to January 8, 2026. The 30-year-old Iyer was recently picked by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the mini-auction for Rs 7 crore after spending four years at Kolkata Knight Riders from 2021 to 2025, winning an Indian Premier League (IPL) title. Getting the captaincy of Madhya Pradesh is a big boost for Iyer. Among the other players picked are experienced Yash Dubey, along with another IPL star, Kumar Kartikeya, who last year moved to Rajasthan Royals after playing for Mumbai Indians from 2022 till 2024. Shubham Sharma and Harpreet Singh are also in the squad for the 16-member squad, in which Madhav Tiwari has been picked, subject to fitness. Meanwhile, the upcoming edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 has gained importance because of the involvement of top stars like India internationals Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Prasidh Krishna, who have been picked by their respective states. Virat has confirmed his availability for Delhi, while Rohit is open to playing for Mumbai in the league stage. KL Rahul and Prasidh Krishna have been named by defending champions Karnataka in their squad. The top stars will be representing their respective states because the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it mandatory for the top stars to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy series. With a three-week gap between Indias final T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad on December 19 and the first ODI against New Zealand on January 11, 2026, the Board is keen that senior players utilise the window to play domestic cricket. Virat has confirmed his availability for Delhi, while Rohit is open to playing for Mumbai in the league stage. KL Rahul and Prasidh Krishna have been named by defending champions Karnataka in their squad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Venkatesh Iyer (Captain), Harsh Gawli, Himanshu Mantri (WK), Yash Dubey, Shubham Sharma, Harpreet Singh, Rishabh Chauhan, Ritik Tada, Kumar Kartikeya, Saransh Jain, Shivang Kumar, Aryan Pandey, Rahul Batham, Tripuresh Singh, Mangesh Yadav, Madhav Tiwari (subject to fitness). Article Source: IANS
Sourav Ganguly Files Complaint Over Objectionable Remarks By Football Fan Club Head
Argentina Football Fan Club: Former Indian cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly on Thursday lodged a complaint with the Kolkata Police's cyber cell against the head of an Argentinian football team fan club, alleging that the individual made offensive and defamatory remarks against him, police sources said. Ganguly filed the complaint at Lalbazar, the city police headquarters, through email, stating that the comments were harming his reputation and causing mental distress. According to police sources, Ganguly named one Uttam Saha in his complaint, alleging that he had publicly made false statements against him. Saha is reportedly the president of the 'Argentina Football Fan Club' in Kolkata. In the complaint, Ganguly stated that the individual knowingly made false, malicious, offensive and defamatory remarks, and publicly levelled serious allegations that have no basis in reality. In his letter, Ganguly further said that over his decades-long professional career as an athlete and sports administrator, he has earned a strong reputation both nationally and internationally. He alleged that attempts were being made to tarnish his image through baseless accusations. The complaint comes in the backdrop of chaos at the Salt Lake Stadium on December 13 during an event linked to Argentine football star Lionel Messi. The stadium was filled much before the event began, with spectators eager to catch a glimpse of the footballer. As soon as Messi arrived, many in the crowd attempted to surround him and take photographs, despite the presence of security personnel. A chaotic situation ensued, with spectators later complaining that they were unable to even see Messi. Messi reportedly left the field within just 22 minutes, following which vandalism broke out. Chairs and bottles were hurled onto the field from the stands, gates were broken, and spectators entered the field. Acts of vandalism were also reported in the galleries and restrooms of the Yuva Bharati Krirangan. Following the incident, the West Bengal government constituted an investigation committee. Event organiser Satadru Dutta was arrested, while on Tuesday, state Sports Minister Aroop Biswas resigned from his post and top IPS officers, including DGP Rajeev Kumar, were issued show-cause notices. Messi reportedly left the field within just 22 minutes, following which vandalism broke out. Chairs and bottles were hurled onto the field from the stands, gates were broken, and spectators entered the field. Acts of vandalism were also reported in the galleries and restrooms of the Yuva Bharati Krirangan. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The cyber cell is expected to examine the complaint and take further action as per law. Article Source: IANS
Fantastic Experience: Fans Praise Delhi Leg Of Lionel Messi's India Tour
Argentinian football legend Lionel Messi's G.O.A.T India Tour ended on a high note in Delhi's Arun Jaitley stadium on Monday after a chaotic beginning in Kolkata.
Test National Cricket Championship For Deaf Off To Grand Opening In Kolkata
The Indian Deaf Cricket Association: The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), on Thursday, kicked off the 4th edition of the Test National Cricket Championship for Deaf in Kolkata in a grand opening ceremony held at Merlin Rise Pavilion, Kolkata. The nearly week-long Test series will have two semifinal cricket matches played simultaneously at Kolkatas Merlin Rise Cricket Ground and Rajasthan Club Ground from December 18 to 23. The winners of the semifinals will then compete for the champions trophy in the Final Test match from December 21 to 23. While semifinal 1 will be played between Delhi and Bengal, semifinal 2 will have Odisha and Jammu and Kashmir competing for a place in the Final. Winning the toss against host Bengal, Delhi elected to bowl first; while winning their toss against Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir also elected to bowl. The IDCA 4th Test National Cricket Championship for the Deaf is being organised under the patronage of Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla Group, and will run from December 18 to 23, 2025, bringing together some of Indias most talented hearing-impaired cricketers from across the four states. Speaking about the championship, Sumit Jain, President, IDCA, said, The 4th Test National Cricket Championship for the Deaf will be a testing ground for all the players as it will be played in two innings across three days. While the players are used to playing a shorter format of the game, a Test match will not only test their fitness but also their consistency to play well for four innings across three days. With this series, we also aim to celebrate the spirit, resilience, and talent of our hearing-impaired athletes and show our fighting spirit. With the generous support of the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, Merlin Rise Group management and our partners, we are continuing to create a strong platform for differently abled cricketers to shine on a national stage, he said. Thanking the support partners, Roma Balwani, CEO, IDCA, added, I am really happy that the 4th Test National Cricket Championship is taking place in Kolkata. Our aim of bringing together talented players who represent the strength of inclusivity in sports would not be possible without our partners' continued support. I am especially grateful to our venue partner, Merlin Rise Pavilion, for providing us with this wonderful location and EIILM - Kolkata for their volunteers and immense support. The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) was founded in 2020 by Sumit Jain, President of IDCA and Vice President & member of DCCI (Differently Abled Cricket Committee, BCCI). Registered under the Societies Registration Act 1860, IDCA is committed to developing cricket among deaf athletes in India and providing them with opportunities at state, national, and international levels. Thanking the support partners, Roma Balwani, CEO, IDCA, added, I am really happy that the 4th Test National Cricket Championship is taking place in Kolkata. Our aim of bringing together talented players who represent the strength of inclusivity in sports would not be possible without our partners' continued support. I am especially grateful to our venue partner, Merlin Rise Pavilion, for providing us with this wonderful location and EIILM - Kolkata for their volunteers and immense support. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mukhopadhyay was also joined by Abhijit Ghosh, Director (HR & CA), and Romon Sebastian Louis, Director (Service Business) - Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd, as guests of honour. Article Source: IANS
Elephant movement disrupts rail traffic in Jharkhand, several trains cancelled
RANCHI: In the wake of frequent movement of wild elephants along forest-fringed sections under the Chakaradharpur Railway Division in Jharkhand, multiple trains have been cancelled on the up and down line. According to officials, herds of jumbos have been frequently spotted near and across tracks on the NaugaonRourkela, ChakradharpurRourkela and RourkelaJharsuguda sections, falling within identified elephant corridor zones. To avoid any potential mishap, these trains will remain cancelled on December 18 and 19, they said. The trains which have been cancelled include Rourkela MEMU, HatiaJharsuguda MEMU, RourkelaJharsuguda MEMU and the BadampaharBangriposi passenger, affecting both onward and return journeys. Railway authorities said that elephant activity in these sections has increased over the past few days, creating operational risks. Due to frequent movement of elephants, trains running during the night get late due to which there is congestion, leading to the delay of long-distance trains during the day time. To avoid congestion during the day time, most of the trains plying during the night have been cancelled, said senior divisional commercial manager Aditya Choudhary. The situation is being monitored closely in coordination with the Forest Department and the Railway Protection Force, he said, adding that services will be restored once it stabilizes. Elephant herd kills four in a day as villagers panic in Jharkhands Ramgarh Choudhary, however, said that long-distance trains on the Howrah-Mumbai route will run at moderate speed with proper track clearance and thorough surveillance by dedicated teams. In addition, pilots have been directed to follow the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) while moving on sections frequented by elephants, he said. Earlier, on October 31 and November 1, the Chakradharpur railway halted 12 long-distance trains on the up and down line for hours to give safe passage to 22 elephants, which were moving in separate herds, between Bisra and D Cabin section on the Jharkhand-Odisha border. Meanwhile, due to thick fog and poor visibility, flight operations at Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi have also been hit badly. Keeping safety norms in mind, airport authorities have cancelled several flights, while many others are operating with significant delays. Airport officials said runway visibility dropped below the prescribed limits during the morning hours, disrupting flight movements. Flight services are expected to gradually return to normal once weather conditions improve. The cancelled flights include IndiGo 6E 7674 / 7235 (Kolkata Ranchi Kolkata), IndiGo 6E 7561 / 7562 (Kolkata Ranchi Kolkata) and Air India Express IX 1046 / 1047 (Delhi Ranchi Delhi).
Shah Rukh Khan-owned Kolkata Knight Riders have suffered a potential setback ahead of IPL 2026 as their new Rs 9.2 crore signing is set to miss a few matches due to scheduling commitments, raising concerns over team balance and availability at the start of the season.
Ganguly files Rs 50 crore defamation case over Messi Kolkata event chaos
Former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has filed a Rs 50 crore defamation suit against Uttam Saha, president of the Argentina Fan Club of Kolkata. Saha had alleged Ganguly's involvement in the chaotic Messi event at Yuva Bharati Stadium. Ganguly, who was an invited guest, denies any organizational role, calling the accusations baseless and damaging to his reputation.
Sourav Ganguly Files Complaint Against 'Argentina Fan Club' Head Over Remarks
Former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly on Thursday lodged a police complaint against the head of Kolkata-based 'Argentina football fan club', alleging that the individual made objectionable remarks against him, a senior officer said.
KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said that her government would rename a state-funded job guarantee scheme after Mahatma Gandhi, amidst the ongoing row over the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill (G RAM G Bill 2025). The chief minister was addressing in a business and industry conclave in Kolkata today. Now, Gandhijis name is not there in the Bill. I am really sorry and feel ashamed of the move. A Bill has been introduced in the parliament. Gandhijis name will not be there in the NREGA scheme, which was named after him. We are forgetting the name of the Father of the Nation. I cannot blame anybody except me because I belong to this country, Mamata said. The Lok Sabha, during the ongoing winter session of the parliament, today passed the VB-G RAM G Bill, which seeks to replace the Congress-led United Progressive Allianceera (UPA) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA) that guarantees employment in rural areas. We launched a scheme called Karmashree in our state. This scheme will be renamed after Gandhiji. We are providing more than 75 days of job under this scheme. We are not beggars. We only want respect and nothing else. If you dont give respect to Gandhiji, we will give him the due respect, she added. The opposition, led by the Congress, has claimed that by withdrawing MGNREGA, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government at the Centre is insulting Mahatma Gandhi and diluting the provisions of the Act. Reacting to the announcement, BJP state president and Rajya Sabha MP Samik Bhattacharya said the Bill was introduced to respect Mahatma Gandhi. She alleged, The Central Government has been using its investigating agencies like Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) against industrialists and businessmen and harassing them. They are creating an environment of terror in Bengal. The Central Government by using its agencies against the investors has been obstructing industrial development in the state. Fake negative campaigns against the industrialisation process are being initiated to defame the state, she claimed in a conclave where industry honchos were present.
Shubman Gill Will Continue To Lead The Team For Many Years: Gujarat Titans Director
Indian Premier League: Gujarat Titans chairman Jinal Mehta and director Shaan Mehta reflected on Shubman Gills leadership in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and assured that the young batter will continue to lead the franchise for many years to come. Gill moved to the Gujarat Titans in 2022 after a stellar IPL start with Kolkata Knight Riders from 2018 to 2021, where he was their highest run-scorer in 2020 and 2021. His pivotal contributions helped GT win the IPL 2022 title, and he followed that with a record-breaking IPL 2023 season, where he scored 890 runs with four centuries. Subsequently, Gill was appointed as the Gujarat Titans (GT) captain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. In his first season as captain, GT finished eighth in the table. However, he was retained as captain for the 2025 season, during which the team qualified for the playoffs and finished third in the standings. I think GT spotted Shubman's batting talent and his leadership capabilities early on. He has done wonderfully well for both GT and India, Jinal said in an interview with the IPL after the mini-auction. Shaan added, The team bonding that has happened over the last few years continues, and Shubman continues to lead us going forward for many years to come. In the mini-auction held on Tuesday, GT strengthened their squad with five new additions: West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder, England wicketkeeper-batter Tom Banton, Indian fast bowler Ashok Sharma, England left-arm pacer Luke Wood, and uncapped Indian speedster Prithvi Raj. Sharing the perspectives on the squad assembled in the mini-auction, Jinal added, We came into the auction with our core in place, and we made minimal changes to our squad. We changed only five players. We came in with very specific requirements. We needed a couple of fast bowlers, an all-rounder, and a middle-order batter. We're happy with the outcome and have achieved all of our objectives. I think we have achieved what we wanted. We welcome all of these new signings and look forward to the next season. We have made it to the playoffs three times in the four seasons that we have played, including winning in our inaugural season and being runners-up in the second season. We're looking forward to building on this journey with the squad that we have in place. I think we will have a great season. We needed a couple of fast bowlers, an all-rounder, and a middle-order batter. We're happy with the outcome and have achieved all of our objectives. I think we have achieved what we wanted. We welcome all of these new signings and look forward to the next season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having assembled a strong squad with a good mix of experienced cricketers and young talents, the 2022 champions will be aiming to clinch their second IPL title. Article Source: IANS
Tea, Fritters In Hand, SSC Aspirants Hit Kolkata Streets Over Jobs Crisis
The first, by visually impaired and differently-abled job seekers, was staged outside the Bikash Bhavan in Salt Lake, where protesters alleged prolonged deprivation and demanded restoration of jobs to the posts they had earlier held
Tenfold increase in Minority Affairs dept budget since TMC came to power in Bengal: Mamata
KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said that the state Minority Affairs department's plan budget has seen a tenfold increase since the TMC came to power in the state. In a post on X on the occasion of Minority Rights Day, Banerjee extended greetings to the people and stated that the department's plan budget had increased from Rs 472 crore in 201011 to over Rs 5,602 crore in 202526. It is my pride that our government has done unprecedented work and continues to do so for minority development. The plan budget has been increased more than tenfold, Banerjee said in a post on X, reaffirming her government's commitment to protecting minority rights and ensuring equitable development in the state. The chief minister claimed that West Bengal ranks first in the country in the distribution of minority scholarships, with 4.85 crore students having benefited from the state-funded 'Aikyashree' scheme at a cost exceeding Rs 10,200 crore since 2011. She added that minority students are being provided education loans of up to Rs 30 lakh for higher studies in India and abroad, while minority and OBC students are covered under the 'Medhashree' scheme. Over the last nearly 15 years, around 16.31 lakh beneficiaries have received self-employment loans amounting to about Rs 3,926 crore, Banerjee wrote. She also highlighted the state's top ranking in the implementation of the Multi-Sectoral Development Programme (MSDP), under which more than Rs 4,500 crore has been spent on infrastructure creation in minority-dominated areas. Additional investments have been made through the state-funded IMDP scheme and other infrastructure projects, Banerjee said. Referring to education and social infrastructure, the CM said English-medium model madrasas and integrated schools are being established, Aliah University campuses have been developed in New Town and Park Circus, and maintenance allowances for students in minority hostels have been enhanced. She further said Urdu has been granted official language status in areas with over 10 per cent Urdu-speaking population, a new Haj House has been built at Rajarhat New Town, and outreach on welfare schemes is being strengthened through imams, muezzins and dedicated minority development bodies. Urdu has been given the status of an official language wherever more than 10 per cent of the population is Urdu-speaking, she said, adding that regional centres of the Urdu Academy have been opened in Islampur and Asansol.
Messi GOAT Tour Chaos: Sourav Ganguly sends Rs 50 crore notice to Argentina fan club 'president'
Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly is suing an Argentina fan club founder for 50 crore over defamatory remarks linking him to the chaotic Lionel Messi GOAT tour event in Kolkata. The fan club chief accused Ganguly of being a stooge and financially ruining Bengal cricket. The Messi event at Salt Lake Stadium saw fan anger and vandalism.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat begins four-day West Bengal visit amid run-up to assembly polls
KOLKATA: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat arrived at Bagdogra airport on Thursday to begin a four-day visit to West Bengal, during which he is scheduled to take part in several organisational programmes of the Sangh across the state. During his stay, on Thursday, Bhagwat will attend a youth programme in Siliguri in Darjeeling district . On Friday, he is slated to address a meeting of RSS functionaries in Siliguri, where he is expected to issue guidelines to Sangh activists. He will then travel to Kolkata, where he will hold a series of organisational meetings on Saturday and Sunday. Security has been tightened for the RSS chief throughout his visit. Political observers view Bhagwats Bengal tour as significant, coming at a time when the state is gearing up for assembly elections scheduled next year. They said the visit assumes importance amid an intensifying political climate in the state. Observers also pointed out that, setting aside issues such as corruption cases including the teachers recruitment scam involving the invalidation of appointments of 26,000 teachers, the Saradha and Narada scams, alleged coal and cattle smuggling, the rape and murder of a woman doctor at R G Kar Medical College Hospital, and the recent Salt Lake Stadium vandalism the forthcoming polls could, for the first time, see a sharper focus on religious polarisation between Hindus and Muslims under the Trinamool Congress regime, which has been in power since 2011. According to RSS insiders, Bhagwat has planned visits to several major states as part of celebrations marking the organisations ongoing centenary year, holding meetings with swayamsevaks across the country. His Bengal visit, they said, also comes against the backdrop of the BJP stepping up efforts to consolidate Hindu votes in the state, while countering Trinamool Congress chief and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees alleged Muslim appeasement ahead of the Assembly elections. Sources said Bhagwat, during his engagements in Siliguri and Kolkata, is keen to gauge the mood of minority voters in both north and south Bengal districts. Political observers noted that the BJPs Bengal unit has recently softened its stance towards the Muslim community, with leaders such as Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly, attempting to reach out to Indian Muslims who respect the countrys traditional cultural heritage. The RSS-backed organisation Muslim Rashtriya Manch has also been active in this outreach, and Bhagwat has previously attended programmes organised by the platform. At 75, Bhagwat who may retire from his organisational post is said to be exploring broader support, including from sections of the Muslim community, for the BJP in the upcoming Assembly elections. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in a post on X amid Bhagwats visit, claimed that her government has undertaken unprecedented initiatives for minority development in the state. She said around 30% of the Muslim population votes for the Trinamool Congress and highlighted increased budgetary support for minority welfare. The plan budget allocation for the minorities have gone up Rs 5,602 crore in financial year 2025-26 from Rs 472 crore in 2010-11, she said on X, while extending her best wishes on Minority Rights Day.
Ticket Refunds Are The Responsibility Of The State Association (UPCA): BCCI
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: After the fourth T20I between India and South Africa was abandoned due to excessive fog and poor visibility, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said that the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) is the competent authority to oversee a full refund for ticket holders. The abandonment of the match sparked frustration among spectators, who are expecting a refund for their tickets. Under the BCCI's refund policy, spectators are eligible for reimbursement (minus fees) if a match is cancelled or abandoned before a single ball is bowled. That is under the domain of the state cricket association, which is UPCA. So, this games hosting state is the UPCA. So, they will be able to tell you about this, and they are the competent authority. Everything in ticketing is done by the state association, as the BCCI just gives them the hosting rights and all these things are taken care of and are under the domain of the state association, Saikia told IANS on Thursday. Repeated inspections by on-field umpires K.N. Ananthapadmanabhan and Rohan Pandit, along with reserve umpire J.R. Madanagopal, didnt yield the desired outcome as the game was eventually called off at 9.30 pm. Due to the match being abandoned at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium, India holds a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, with the fifth and final game set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday. The abandonment of the fourth T20I has reignited debate over the BCCIs scheduling of international games in winter months, particularly with this series against South Africa seen as a part of vital preparation ahead of the Mens T20 World Cup in February-March. This was the first time a T20I was staged in Lucknow in December, and it now carries the unwanted distinction of hosting Indias first major international match abandoned due to excessive fog. Indias seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya was even spotted wearing a mask in the middle, underscoring the severity of fog and the Air Quality Index (AQI), which remained hazardous. The scheduling of fixtures in North Indian winters has long been a contentious issue, and Saikia felt Wednesdays game being abandoned in Lucknow was just an exceptional situation. No, it is a solitary weather situation. Normally we have this kind of weather in the month of January. This time it is quite early, number one, and number two, we had a match in Dharamsala also the other day. Dharamsala is a much colder place. So you cannot predict fog, and rain. Nowadays cricket is a throughout the year annual event for 12, and we have to have the matches. When we saw that there were big disturbances from fog in northern India in the month of January, we already restructured our domestic cricket matches. That's why there is a big gap between Ranji Trophy matches in North India. If you look at our schedule, we have bifurcated the Ranji Trophy matches into two parts. During the first part of January, we are not scheduling any matches in North India from last year onwards, if you follow that. This Lucknow incident is an exceptional weather condition. We had three matches in North India - one in Chandigarh, Dharamshala and one in Lucknow - all are in the same build, he elaborated. Saikia also gave an example of how prior advice on smog affecting New Delhi after Diwali had led to the national capital hosting the second Test against the West Indies in October, instead of the originally decided series opener against South Africa. If we had got any sense that there will be something like this, you can take the example of rescheduling or swapping of the Test match in New Delhi. If you look at the West Indies match, the second Test was played in New Delhi. In fact, the second Test was scheduled to happen in Kolkata. Saikia also gave an example of how prior advice on smog affecting New Delhi after Diwali had led to the national capital hosting the second Test against the West Indies in October, instead of the originally decided series opener against South Africa. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I don't think Lucknow always has this kind of fog at this part of the time. Maybe in the first part of January, it is normal, but we are still in the second or third week of December. We still have 15 days time to be in that situation. That is one of the tough things we saw yesterday, and for this, we cannot have any kind of rescheduling, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
IndiGo flight cancelled days before her wedding So two men drove 2,000 km to bring the bride home
When Indigos nationwide flight cancellations stranded thousands of passengers, my daughter a bride-to-be returning from Hyderabadfound herself in danger of missing crucial pre-wedding preparations in Kolkata. In a moment when hope seemed distant, a close friend drove all the way from Bangalore to rescue her, and the groom joined midway to complete the final stretch of the journey. What began as a travel crisis transformed into an uplifting story of friendship, commitment, and love spanning nearly 2,000 kilometres, shares Arun Kanti Chatterjee.
Indian Street Premier League: Sourav Ganguly joins Tiigers of Kolkata as co-owner and mentor
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly is now co-owner and mentor for Tiigers of Kolkata. This is for the upcoming Indian Street Premier League season. The tournament is set to take place in Surat. It will run from January 9 to February 6, 2026. Ganguly aims to develop raw street cricket talent. He will help players build match-winning habits.
RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group commits Rs 15,800 crore capex in Bengal
RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group Chairman Sanjiv Goenka announced a Rs 15,800 crore capital expenditure plan for West Bengal, focusing on energy, education, and healthcare. A key project is a 5,000 MWh storage facility costing Rs 12,000 crore, aiming to power Kolkata with 50% renewable energy. The group will also invest Rs 1,000 crore in expanding education and healthcare facilities.
Indian Scientists Develop New Breakthrough Peptide Therapy To Treat Eye Infections
A team of researchers from Bose Institute in Kolkata has developed a peptide therapy that offers a promising, multidisciplinary approach to treating a severe, sight-threatening infection of the cornea.
Messi fiasco in Kolkata: Abhishek Banerjee defendsWest Bengal CM Mamata, government
LoPSuvenduAdhikari barred from entering Salt Lake Stadium; four-person Special Investigation Team visits stadium and probes intolast weeks vandalism
Agencies Kolkata The AFC has come down hard on Indian Super League champion Mohun Bagan Super Giant, banning the club from continental football for up to two seasons and hitting it with a massive fine after its refusal to travel for an AFC Champions League Two group game in September. In a decision announced following [] The post AFC bans Mohun Bagan appeared first on The Navhind Times .
Bengal BJP makes public a report blaming Trinamool regime for States industrial decline
The BJP released the document a day before West Bengal government is likely to hold a high-level business conclave in Kolkata on December 18 to highlight the states industrial progress and new investment prospects
On December 18, 2025, gold prices in India range from Rs 13,452 per 1 gram for 24K gold and Rs 12,331 per 1 gram for 22K gold. Silver is priced at Rs 2,08,100 per kilogram. Check city-wise rates here.
Starting price for non-India group games is Rs 100, Indias Super 8 game Rs 900
Kolkata, Dec 17: The Cricket Association of Bengal on Wednesday announced the ticket prices for matches to be held at the Eden Gardens during the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, with rates varying across group-stage fixtures and knockout matches. The 10th edition of showpiece will start on February 7. For group matches featuring Bangladesh vs []
Kolkata region records highest name deletions in Bengal SIR draft
In Kolkata, the Trinamool Congress is facing a surprising challenge as voter deletions reach staggering numbers in key strongholds. Constituencies like Jorasankho and Chowringhee are grappling with troubling statistics of voters marked absent, deceased, or even duplicated.
SIR in Bengal: 45K voters deleted from Mamatas assembly seat
Kolkata: The TMC leadership has decided to instruct its booth-level agents to carry out fresh, door-to-door scrutiny of deleted voters names in Bhabanipur, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees assembly constituency, after nearly 45,000 electors were struck off from the draft rolls under the SIR exercise, party sources said. According to Election Commission data, Bhabanipur 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 .
SC allows action against vehicles below BS-IV norms in NCR
The Supreme Court has empowered the Delhi government to take action against vehicles not meeting BS IV emission standards in the NCR region. In a separate development, the apex court has transferred the suo moto case concerning the rape of a trainee doctor in Kolkata to the Calcutta High Court.
Watch: IPL 2026 auction analysis | CSK and KKR go big; massive pay days for uncapped Indian players
At the IPL 2026 auction held in Abu Dhabi, Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings expectedly hogged the limelight with their high bids
Watch: SIT begins probe into vandalism at Lionel Messi event in Kolkata
Third tigress dies within three months at Kolkata's Alipore Zoo, triggering concerns
KOLKATA: A third tigress has died within three months at the city's Alipore Zoological Garden on Wednesday, raising questions about the medical care provided to animals at the facility. According to sources at the zoo, the sub-adult Royal Bengal tigress was suffering from an infection by a haemoprotozoan parasite and admitted to an animal hospital in the city where she died. She would have completed three years in February. The tigress was born at Nandankanan in Odisha and brought to the Alipore Zoo in August 2023. A viscera test will confirm the exact cause of death, sources said. The infection is caused by blood parasites like Babesia, Theileria, Anaplasma and Trypanosoma. It is transmitted by ticks or biting flies, leading to fever, anaemia and jaundice. These parasites also affect livestock (cattle, sheep, goats) and companion animals (dogs, cats). The two previous tigress deaths at the zoo occurred within a 24-hour span on September 23-24. One was a 21-year-old white tigress born in Alipore Zoo, while the other -- a 17-year-old -- had been brought from Odisha's Nandankanan Zoo in 2016. Both were reportedly ailing from age-related illnesses and were under veterinary care. The zoo has been dogged by a series of concerns. Earlier this year, reports emerged of discrepancies in animal sourcing, transfer, and record-keeping, with the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) disputing some of the zoo's records. A separate case on the disappearance of more than 300 animals from the zoo is currently being heard in court.
Bangla band, once the voice of a generation, to reunite after 20 years for one evening
For many Kolkatans who were in college in the 1990s, the Parash Pathar reunion performance is a trip down memory lane
Clips from Kolkata stadium missing from Messis GOAT Tour video
Kolkata: Argentina football legend Lionel Messi released a commemorative video of his GOAT India Tour on Wednesday, notably excluding any footage of his appearance at Kolkatas Yuba Bharati Krirangan (Salt Lake Stadium). The omission comes amid a backdrop of administrative mismanagement resulting in fans outrage and the arrest of the event organiser. The video, shared 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 .
Aviation Ivy Launches Free Career Guidance Platform for Aspiring Aviation Professionals
To address the growing need for unbiased career guidance, Aviation Ivy proudly announces its dedicated career counselling website. Aviation Ivy is designed for students and young professionals across India, seeking careers in aviation, hospitality, travel, or customer care. It is founded with the aim of providing free counselling to young aspirants and empowering them to make confident, well-informed career choices. Your Journey to a Confident Aviation Career Starts With increasing career options and limited guidance available, Aviation Ivy bridges this gap by offering expert-led personalised career counselling aligned with students interests and skills. Young students often struggle to identify the right path to achieve their goals. Aviation Ivy takes a transparent, student-first approach, offering services to help students focus on long-term career choices rather than follow job trends. It provides one-on-one counselling and training sessions, as well as detailed industry insights, all designed to help young aspirants gain clarity before committing time, energy, and resources to a particular career path. With presence across all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Agra, Lucknow, Noida, Dehradun, and Rishikesh; Aviation Ivy is now available to all people seeking reliable career guidance from industry experts, at no cost, and is committed to helping students discover their true potential. For more information, please visit - aviationivy.com
A Messi Affair: How Political VIP Culture is Making Kolkata Joyless
Kolkata, Mecca of desi football, wanted to roll out the red carpet for Messi. Instead, it tripped over its own feet.
SIT Begins Probe Into Vandalism at Messi Event in Kolkata
Bidhannagar police apprehended one more person in connection with the vandalism at the stadium, taking the total number of arrests to six
BJP slams Mamata government over deindustrialisation in West Bengal
KOLKATA: The opposition BJP on Wednesday alleged that the state has been suffering from deindustrialisation since the Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, came to power in the state in 2011. The Bengal BJP unit today released a booklet, 'West Bengal: Industrialisation graveyard', on the industrialisation scenario in the state, hardly 24 hours before the state government organised Business and Industry Conclave in the city on 18 December, showcasing its industrial investment in the state. The BJP held a press conference today where Samik Bhattacharya, Rajya Sabha MP, the partys Bengal president, and Suvendu Adhikari, Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, were present. Both Samik and Suvendu gave comparative figures focusing on the Trinamool Congress governments promises in the annual mega show Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) since 2015. They alleged that the state government has been misleading people of the state by giving false figures related to industrial investments and the number of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) signed between the state and industry houses. Samik alleged that large industrial houses have left West Bengal, damaging the state's prospects for industrialisation. Both leaders alleged that the governments much-publicised claim about industrial investments of twenty lakh rupees in the state and 800 MoUs signed so far during the past 10 years is nothing but false propaganda. The investments in industries are very poor in the state, they alleged. The Trinamool Congress government has failed in generating employment in the state, they alleged, adding that MoUs are signed in every business summit without any results in investments. The amount of expenditures in organising BGBS showcasing industrialisations in the state is shooting up every year, according to the BJP leaders. Industrial investment in the state is a big zero despite spending a huge amount of Rs 500 crore for BGBSs during the past 10 years. No major investment has been made in heavy and ancillary industries so far, Suvendu said. He also alleged that the state government has decided to organise the business conclave at Dhan Dhannya auditorium in the city instead of the sprawling Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in New Town, spending hundred crores of rupees.
Visa Restrictions Disrupt Bangladesh Exhibitors at Kolkata Cable TV Event
The three-day B2B event features 90 companies showcasing new technologies, products and solutions in digital cable television, broadband and OTT services.
