ED Conducts Raids at Eight Locations in Kolkata Linked to Chit Fund Scam
The Enforcement Directorate has launched raids in Kolkata as part of an investigation into a significant chit fund scam affecting thousands of investors. ED Conducts Raids at Eight Locations in Kolkata Linked to Chit Fund Scam
ED raids multiple locations in Kolkata in chit fund case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 12 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) was conducting simultaneous raids and search operations in eight locations in Kolkata on Monday in connection with a major chit fund scam in West Bengal. The ED teams were accompanied by the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel. Sources aware of the development said that a chit fund entity lured thousands of investors to invest in their multi-level marketing scheme by promising lucrative returns. Initially, some investors received returns as promised, prompting them to invest more in such schemes. However, the returns stopped coming gradually, which resulted in severe losses for investors. Later, the same money, as paid by the people, was illegally invested in several real estate projects in the city run by influential promoters extremely close to the previous ruling dispensation in the state. It is learnt that the eight locations, where simultaneous raids and search operations are being conducted since this morning, are mainly concentrated in South Kolkata, such as Tollygunge and Sarat Bose Road. However, further details on the matter are awaited. Last month, the ED launched raid and search operations in this particular financial fraud case. At that time, the investigating officers of the Central agency raided various offices of the investment company and the residences of several officials of the company. Based on the information received in the operation last month, the ED launched another operation on Monday, sources said. It is learnt that during the raid and search operations last month, the investigating officials of the ED examined various transactions and bank-related documents of the said entity and came to know that although originating in Kolkata, the said entity had spread its activities to other states as well. For the last few months, ED has become active again in West Bengal in several cases related to money laundering and bank loan fraud, among others, with raids and search operations by Central agency officials having become regular.
BJP begins process for selecting candidates for KMC polls
Elections to Kolkata Municipal Corporation and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC) are scheduledin November 2026
ED Raids Eight Kolkata Locations In Money Laundering Case
The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids at eight locations in Kolkata on Monday morning as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation. The searches targeted premises in Tollygunge and Sarat Bose Road, focusing on suspected financial fraud and the collection of funds from the public with promises of high returns, with money allegedly routed to real estate and other ventures.
Puja Pandals come alive in Kolkata as Navratri begins
Gold and silver prices today, 12 October: Check the latest 24K, 22K gold and 999 silver retail rates across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities, along with MCX market updates.
Eden Gardens Sets Guinness World Record on Mahalaya
Mahalaya celebrations at Kolkatas Eden Gardens made history as 3,000 dhakis played the dhak together, setting a Guinness World Record. The grand event on October 10 marked the beginning of Devi Paksha and the countdown to Durga Puja. The post Eden Gardens Sets Guinness World Record on Mahalaya appeared first on Fusion - WeRIndia .
Gold Rate Today: Check 24K, 22K Gold Prices in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru on Oct 12
Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad reported varying 24K and 22K gold prices on October 12. The national price stood at Rs 1,51,720 per 10 gm for 24K gold, while silver was priced at Rs 2,26,140 per kg.
Kathi Kebab Roll vs Frankie vs Wrap: What is the difference?
Kathi rolls, hailing from the vibrant streets of Kolkata, showcase a delectable combination of kebabs enveloped in flaky paratha. In contrast, Mumbai's Frankies feature scrumptious, spiced fillings wrapped in soft roti or paratha, making them uniquely flavorful. Wraps, on the other hand, embody versatility, utilizing various flatbreads to accommodate an array of fillings and sauces.
Get your own ticket confirmed first, Akhilesh Yadav tells Yogi Adityanath on Ayodhya challenge
Mr. Yadav spoke in Lucknow after paying floral tributes to socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan
Minister signals end of road for traditional horse-drawn carriages around Maidan
BJP Invites Applications from Professionals for Kolkata Municipal Corporation Elections
The BJP is seeking professional candidates to contest in the upcoming Kolkata Municipal Corporation elections, aiming to enhance civic services. BJP Invites Applications from Professionals for Kolkata Municipal Corporation Elections
Terracotta idol makes journey back to land of terracotta
Festive spirit sets in: City restos & bars rake in the moolah as footfall goes up
UCC committee gets 3 office rooms at Writers Buildings
Commuters Suffer As Auto Extortion Peaks In Puja Zones In Kolkata
Six Kolkata Scientists Get Patent From Centre For Electrical Leak-Check device
Pre-dawn Park St rash driving leads to brawl, cop thrashed
72-yr-old lives in fear after eviction threat
Citizens lose lakhs to power bill, visa frauds
Former driver molests woman, attacks home
Man away in Punjab, cash & jewellery stolen from Mukundapur flat
Teacher held for assaulting toddler inside classroom
Amar Para Maddox Square & Mudiali
Stabbed engg student goes home from hosp
Kolkata: Prabasi Bangali Pujas Stick To Tradition, Stir Up Kol Street Nostalgia
Bengal scientists CO2 research published in Science
Edu data shows surge in admissions to engineering, degree courses
India crushed by Russia in women's football friendly
The Indian women's football team suffered a heavy 0-8 defeat against Russia in their second international friendly in Kolkata. Russia displayed clinical finishing and exploited India's defensive weaknesses, scoring five goals in the first half and adding three more after the break, with multiple players bagging braces.
Bengal BJP to invite open applications from professionals willing to contest KMC polls
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 11 (IANS) The West Bengal Bharatiya Janata (BJP) will invite open application from professionals from certain fields who are willing to contest the polls on behalf of the party in the forthcoming election by the year-end for the formation of the new board for Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). A drop box will be placed at the BJP's old state headquarters at Muralidhar Sen Lane in central Kolkata where interested professionals from specific fields interested to contest the KMC polls on behalf of the party, said BJP Lok Sabha member from Balurghat seat in South Dinajpur district of West Bengal and Minister of State, Sukanta Majumdar, who is hearing a four-member committee to oversee the party's organisational preparations for the forthcoming polls for the KMC scheduled by the end of this year. Majumdar, the former State BJP President, told media persons on Sunday that the party is inviting successful professionals like engineers, doctors, legal practitioners, journalists and social workers to come forward, contest and if elected to get involved in betterment of civic amenities within the KMC areas. He also said that during the selection of candidates priority will be given on the clean image and acceptability of the candidates concerned and that is exactly why applications from successful professionals from significant fields are being invited. The drop box for the applications at Muralidhar Sen Lane office will be present there from Monday. Interested professionals would be able to submit their application at the drop box as long as the party office will remain open, Majumdar said on Sunday. Meanwhile, a state BJP committee member said that providing health-related services is a crucial civic service that KMC is supposed to provide. So, if KMC can have successful practicing doctors as Councillor, there will be automatic improvements in this sphere of work. At the same time, engineers play a role in various department like assessment and collections, buildings and lighting, among others. Similarly, getting legal professionals as Councillors will be immense help for KMC's legal department. The political parties running the KMC boards have never thought on these lines, the state BJP committee member added. The polling for formation of the new KMC board will tentatively be in the last week of November this year and the results are expected to be announced in the first week of December.
AITC team probes attacks on Christians in Bengal after BJP win
Kolkata: A fact-finding team of the opposition Mamata AITC on Sunday, October 11, alleged that it found during visits to various parts of West Bengal that mobs vandalised churches, denied Christians burial rights and disturbed their prayers after the BJP came to power in the state in May. The partys Rajya Sabha MP Sagarika Ghose 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 .
BJP to contest all 209 wards in Kolkata civic poll, open to fielding eminent citizens, youths
The BJP is gearing up to contest all 209 seats in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation elections, prioritizing the inclusion of professionals in their candidate selection. Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar underscored the need for transparency within the KMC and a deep understanding of local issues. The party plans to attract the youth by focusing on discussions surrounding startups and skills training.
Three out of 19 SIR tribunals vacant; ECI awaits names from Calcutta HC
While these tribunals report to Calcutta High Court, ECI provides them with secretarial assistance, including staff and digital platform for online hearings.
Uttarakhand college students meet Bengal Governor under Yuva Sangam initiative
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 11 (IANS) A delegation of college students from Uttarakhand interacted with West Bengal Governor R.N. Ravi on issues like learning and cultural exchange as part of the Union Education Ministry's Yuva Sangam initiative, an official said on Sunday. The interaction on October 8 provided the students and faculty members of the Uttarakhand delegation with an opportunity to experience West Bengals cultural identity and traditions, the official said in a statement. The students engaged in a discussion on the importance of strengthening connections among young people from different parts of the country, it said. The visit was organised by the Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, as part of Yuva Sangam Phase VII under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme, it said. The objective of the programme is to foster national integration and strengthen people-to-people connections among the youth of the country, it said. The interaction provided the students and faculty members of the Uttarakhand delegation with an opportunity to gain valuable perspectives while experiencing West Bengals distinctive cultural identity and traditions. The programme provides participants from 20 paired States and Union Territories with opportunities to engage with Indias diverse cultural traditions, educational institutions, innovation ecosystems and developmental initiatives, thereby deepening their appreciation of the nations unity amidst diversity. The visit of the Uttarakhand delegation, with Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University as its nodal institute, to West Bengal commenced with a warm welcome on October 7. The delegation is being hosted by IIT Kharagpur, which is facilitating opportunities for the young participants to explore the States rich cultural and spiritual heritage, vibrant traditions and educational landscape, said the statement. The visit reflects the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat by encouraging young people to explore new places, interact with diverse communities and build lasting friendships beyond geographical boundaries, said the statement. Through such immersive experiences, Yuva Sangam Phase VII continues to promote national integration, cultural understanding and appreciation of Indias rich diversity, it said.
'We should win; there is no other result,' says Mohun Bagan coach ahead of ISL opener
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Oct 11 (IANS) Mohun Bagan Super Giant head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis said his team must approach the new Indian Super League (ISL) season with greater aggression and intensity, insisting that winning is the only acceptable result as they prepare to face NorthEast United FC in their campaign opener on Monday. Mohun Bagan will take on NorthEast United at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium on October 12, beginning their campaign with an away fixture. It will be the first of two consecutive away matches for the Kolkata-based side, who have already faced the Guwahati outfit in the Durand Cup this season. Dilmperis believes the teams participation in multiple competitions during the pre-season has helped the players develop tactical flexibility and gain valuable match experience ahead of the ISL campaign. Because we managed to work on two formations, we played 3-4-3, and we played 4-2-3-1. So, the players now, they adopt both of them, so we can use them in different games, or, during a game, we can switch. Most of the players have had playing time, and that playing time was under a lot of pressure because we wanted to take the title. The whole process was beneficial for us, Dilmperis said. The coach also outlined his expectations for the team this season, saying he wants Mohun Bagan to play a more attacking brand of football, while acknowledging that the squad may need time to sustain that intensity throughout a match. I would love to see on the field a team that plays something a little bit more aggressive, with more intensity. Its true that because of the preparation season, we are not ready to do it for a long time during one game. We should win. There is no other result, he added. Mohun Bagan enter the new campaign after a busy pre-season that included success in the IFA Shield and other tournaments, providing the squad with a strong platform ahead of the league. Forward Lee Harry Erwin also expressed confidence in the teams atmosphere and preparation, saying the challenges faced during the season had helped strengthen the squads togetherness. The atmosphere amongst the squad is very good, especially when you have the hurdles that weve had in the season. You see it in training; everybodys happy together. We have two trophies as well. Its good to build on this; its a good platform, Erwin said.
DRI Busts Indo-Bangladesh Gold Smuggling Racket: 6 Arrested
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has disrupted a major cross-border syndicate, seizing approximately 7.8 kg of foreign-origin gold valued at over Rs 11.50 crore in intelligence-led operations across West Bengal. The two-day crackdown on Oct 89 targeted illicit road and rail corridors connecting border zones in Bangladesh and Tripura to commercial hubs in Kolkata, [] The post DRI Busts Indo-Bangladesh Gold Smuggling Racket: 6 Arrested appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Mamata AITC alleges 'Hindi imposition', distortion of Bengali over KMC poster campaign
Mamata All India Trinamool Congress accused the West Bengal BJP government of distorting the Bengali language. They cited a cleanliness campaign poster that mixed Hindi and Bengali phrases, which sparked controversy. Party leaders have expressed their dissatisfaction, urging corrections to be made to preserve the integrity of Bengali language. No response has been provided yet from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation regarding the allegations.
DRI officials seize 5.832 kg of gold worth 8.98 crore near Visakhapatnam
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence intercepted a car travelling from Kolkata to Hyderabad and arrested two persons for smuggling the gold, believed to have entered via the India-Bangladesh border
Rejected by people in Bengal, Mamata Banerjee in Delhi to keep herself relevant: Dilip Ghosh
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 11 (IANS) After being rejected by the people of West Bengal, former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is currently in New Delhi with a herculean attempt to keep herself relevant in national politics, said state Panchayat Affairs and Rural Development Minister and BJPs former national vice-president, Dilip Ghosh, on Sunday. Ghosh, also the BJPs former state president, ridiculed her, claiming she would now go to neighbouring Bangladesh and join any movement there to keep herself more relevant. She and her party, Trinamool Congress, have been completely rejected by the people of West Bengal. The combined vote share of the two factions of Trinamool Congress in the recently concluded bypolls to two Assembly constituencies in West Bengal has been less than three per cent. Trinamool Congress is non-existent in West Bengal. So, she has gone to New Delhi to keep herself relevant in the media. She should now go to neighbouring Bangladesh and join any movement there to keep herself more relevant. But still her party will never benefit, said Ghosh while speaking to the media persons. Ghosh also launched a scathing attack against the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)s ongoing protest in New Delhi over the demand for the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Gyanesh Kumar, which Mamata Banerjee has been supporting. There is foreign funding behind this movement. A conspiracy by the anti-national forces is behind this movement. The government has done the right thing in taking action in the larger interest of the country and its people, said Ghosh. Ghosh is not the first state BJP leader from West Bengal to ridicule Mamata Banerjee over her eagerness to be a part of the CJP movement. On Saturday, BJPs current state president in West Bengal and the partys Rajya Sabha member, Samik Bhattacharya, without directly naming Congress and the Trinamool Congress faction led by Mamata Banerjee, said that a half-dead political force had joined hands with a dead force to stay relevant over the CJP movement. On the occasion of Mahalaya today, the former West Bengal Chief Minister has gone to New Delhi instead of staying in the state. We want her to stay here during this festivity time and visit various puja pandals. We want to see her doing that. Where have all the big Trinamool Congress leaders gone? Bhattacharya asked on Saturday.
DRI Nabs Smugglers With Rs 8.98 Crore Gold In Andhra Pradesh
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized over 5.8 kg of foreign-origin gold, valued at Rs 8.98 crores, following a high-speed highway chase near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Two individuals transporting the gold from Kolkata to Hyderabad, which was smuggled via the India-Bangladesh border, have been arrested and remanded to judicial custody.
BMW Industries starts colour coated steel production to cater demand
BMW Industries has begun manufacturing colour-coated steel to meet growing domestic demand from key sectors such as infrastructure, auto and consumer goods, the company's Managing Director Harsh Bansal said. The new colour-coated steel line, commissioned on Monday, is part of the company's ongoing Rs 800-crore expansion plan at Bokaro in Jharkhand, aimed at offering special steel products, Bansal said. Kolkata-based BMW Industries has until now manufactured steel coils, sheets, pipes and TMT rebars. We have commenced the first phase of our greenfield downstream steel complex with the colour coating line. With this, we have joined the select group of producers in India. The line has been set up as part of the government's PLI Scheme for Speciality Steel, he said. Launched in 2021 by the steel ministry with an outlay of Rs 6,322 crore, the first round of the PLI Scheme aims to promote the manufacturing of value-added steel grades in the country and help the Indian steel industry ..
Andhra Pradesh: DRI seizes foreign-origin gold worth Rs 8.98 crore in Visakhapatnam, two arrested
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 5.83 kg of foreign-origin gold worth Rs 8.98 crore from a car travelling from Kolkata to Hyderabad in Visakhapatnam, and arrested two persons in connection with the case. Acting on specific intelligence, the DRI maintained heightened vigilance along the National Highway and intercepted the vehicle after a prolonged chase. According to the DRI, sustained interrogation and a systematic search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a specially fabricated cavity beneath the leg space of the front co-passenger seat. Three packets containing 5,832.90 grams of foreign-origin gold of 24-carat purity (999 fineness) were recovered from the concealed cavity. The gold was valued at Rs 8.98 crore at market prices. The gold was reportedly smuggled into India through the India-Bangladesh border and was being transported to Hyderabad. The recovered gold was seized under the provisions of the Customs Act, 1962. Both persons were arrested and prod...
Bengal to soon have 375 fair price medicine shops for pet animals, birds
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 11 (IANS) West Bengal will soon have 375 fair price medicine shops for pet animals and birds to be run by the Directorate of Animal Resources and Animal Health under the state Animal Resources Development Department. The department has issued a notification, saying that these fair price medicine shops for pet animals and birds, popularly known as Pashu Aushadhi Vikray Kendras (PAVKs), will be part of the Union Governments Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme. A department insider said that these PAVKs will not only cater to home pet owners but also to those who depend on livestock for their livelihoods. Of the 375 PAVKs, the main one will be at the state level, which will be at the state capital of Kolkata. Similarly, there will be 30 district-level PAVKs and 344 block-level PAVKs, said the department official. At the PAVKs, medicines and vaccines for pet animals, including dogs, will be available at much cheaper rates compared to those sold in private pet shops or pet clinics. It is often alleged, which to an extent is true, that a major scam has been going on for quite some time with animal medicines and vaccines involving a section of the veterinary doctors and representatives of pharmaceutical companies manufacturing veterinary medicines and vaccines, the state government official said. Explaining the nature of the scam, he said that a section of veterinary doctors is often accused of prescribing medicines and vaccines from particular brands instead of generic medicines in return for hefty commissions and other benefits in kind from the representatives of pharmaceutical companies manufacturing veterinary medicines and vaccines. Once these fair price medicine shops are operative, such alleged scams will automatically get restricted, and pet owners will benefit as they will be relieved of purchasing branded medicines at exorbitant prices, the department official said. He also said that these PAVKs will address another major problem faced by people residing in remote areas, and dependent on livestock for their livelihoods. That is exactly why as many as 344 PAVKs will be opened at the block-levels, keeping in mind the requirements of such people, the department official said. The information has brought cheer to the pet lovers. Often, we have to purchase medicines and vaccines for our pets, especially rabies vaccines for our puppies, at exorbitant prices since the veterinary doctors only prescribe branded medicines at premium prices. Now this initiative by the state government will solve that problem to a great extent, said Jayita Srakr, a city-based pet lover.
DRI seizes gold worth Rs 8.98 crore en route to Hyderabad
Hyderabad: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 5.83 kg of foreign-origin gold, valued at Rs. 8.98 crore, from a specially fabricated cavity in a car travelling from Kolkata to Hyderabad. Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officials maintained heightened surveillance along the national highway and intercepted the car carrying two passengers at Visakhapatnam after a 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's Eden Gardens lights up for Mahalaya celebrations with drone show and Durga installations
Kolkata's Eden Gardens lights up for Mahalaya celebrations with drone show and Durga installations
In Frames | Kumartuli: where clay comes alive
In the historic lanes of Kolkatas potters quarter, majestic idols of Goddess Durga come alive this Puja season as tourists, photographers and social media enthusiasts throng the open-air workshops to witness the meticulous craftsmanship behind the art
Woman Found Dead at Kolkata Hospital, Rat Bites Suspected
The hospital official said a preliminary assessment suggested rats might have gnawed at the body, though a detailed inquiry is still needed to establish the circumstances.
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari praises zero incidents during Tarpan rituals in Kolkata
The News Mill
ED Freezes 139 Bank Accounts of Gupta Power Infrastructure in Money Laundering Case
The Enforcement Directorate has frozen 139 bank accounts of Gupta Power Infrastructure in a money laundering investigation in Kolkata. ED Freezes 139 Bank Accounts of Gupta Power Infrastructure in Money Laundering Case
Father-Son Duo Eye Sudoku Glory
As the 19th World Sudoku Championship and 33rd World Puzzle Championship open in Kolkata from October 11 to 18, the pair are aiming to make their mark, with the Indian team targeting a top-five finish.
NKDA flags 38 bldgs for illegal commercial use
24-day drive to boost flyer services ends
Cop-Railways Meet On Puja Traffic, Security Management
Burglars Loot Rs 7.4 Lakh, Gold From Kolkata Flat
Kol to remain dry for next few days: Met
Trial run: Finally, a metro rake bridges Chingrighata gap
10,000-dhak drumroll, 1,000 shankha, 3,000 drones welcome Durga to her earthly abode
12,400 new Durga Pujas in Bengal this year: CM
Flyover road surfaces get festive coat of paint
Adani soft-power push: From sponsor to culture investor
Civic bodies shift gear as Kol, Salt Lake pre-puja road repair drive enters last leg
West Bengals BJP government kicks off first Durga Puja celebration with mega event at Eden Gardens
Chief Minister says Durga Pujas will now follow proper religious traditions, adding that 12,400 more community Durga Pujas are being organised in the State this year
Optimistic about anti-goonda bill getting Centres nod soon: CM
KMC tree ambulance saves trees nailed by advertisers
Kolkata bars set to pass on Scotch price saving to you
SDF Building awaits fire and lift safety clearances since 2012
Rare Four-Graft Minimally Invasive CABG At Kolkata Hospital
CJP protests: TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, AAP's Arvind Kejriwal released from detention
Mamata Banerjee was detained by Delhi Police along with five MPs during protests in the capital. She stated they were held in a prison van for two hours without proceeding to their intended location. In a video, she expressed her intent to protest against the ongoing issues affecting the youth. Banerjee announced she will not return to Kolkata and will participate in the INDIA march.
Practically kidnapped: Mamata, TMC MPs detained in Delhi for nearly 4 hours
ED freezes 139 bank accounts of Bengal-based corporate firm in money laundering case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 10 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Saturday confirmed to have frozen 139 bank accounts of Gupta Power Infrastructure Limited (GPIL), a company registered with West Bengal, in connection with a money-laundering case in which the central agency had been investigating for some time. According to a statement issued by the ED, the decision to freeze the bank accounts was taken after the officers of the agency's Kolkata-based eastern regional office conducted raids and search operations at nine locations in West Bengal and neighbouring Odisha on October 5 this year, which were linked to GPIL, its associated entities and persons connected with its management, in relation to an investigation into bank fraud committed by the West Bengal company. The central agency claimed that following the raid and search operation, various incriminating documents, devices and records were found and seized, as per the provisions of Prevention of the Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. ED, the investigation arm of the Ministry of Finance, also claimed that besides 139 bank accounts related to GPIL, and a number of mutual funds and shares held in the name of the corporate entity and its associated individuals were also frozen. In addition, the ED claimed, three high end cars (two Mercedes and one BMW) were also confiscated. The contents of the seized material and financial transactions are currently under investigation, the ED statement said. The ED's investigation in the matter was initiated on the basis of an FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), where it was alleged that GPIL availed substantial fund-based and non-fund-based working-capital facilities from a consortium of banks, with Canara Bank as the lead bank. The consortium exposure was around Rs 3,590 crore, including Canara Bank's sanctioned exposure of around Rs 1,174 crore. However, as claimed by the ED, later GPIL allegedly manipulated its drawing power and borrowing capacity by substantially inflating the stock reported to banks vis--vis the stock reflected in its audited financial statements and including around Rs 280 crore worth of project and EPC stock as eligible stock for availing working capital facilities. Further, disputed and doubtful receivables, including claims rejected by the NCLT, were continued to be represented as eligible receivables, while a major discrepancy of around Rs 1115.15 crore was observed in the receivables reported by GPIL, indicating possible inflation of its current assets and consequent enhancement of borrowing limits, the ED statement said.
Police complaint filed against Abhishek Banerjee over 'misleading' Rejinagar bypoll post
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 10 (IANS) A Returning Officer (RO), acting on behalf of the Election Commission of India (ECI), has lodged a police complaint against Trinamool Congress general secretary and Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee over allegedly misleading information shared on social media regarding the Rejinagar Assembly bypoll results. On Friday, while the counting was underway, Abhishek Banerjee, also the nephew of former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, claimed in a social media post that in a particular booth for the Rejinagar Assembly bypoll, the winning BJP candidate, Sakharav Sarkar, received more votes than the total number of registered voters at that particular booth. In the post, the Diamond Harbour MP claimed that at Booth No. 109 in Rejinagar, the BJP candidate secured 909 votes even though the total number of registered voters was 772. The district electoral officer (DEO) & district magistrate (DM) promptly issued a counter statement, rejecting the claims by Abhishek, and said that, as per the electoral roll for that polling station, the total number of registered electors was 1,109, of which 972 votes were polled across all candidates contesting in the Rejinagar bypoll. On Saturday, the concerned RO, on behalf of the ECI, registered a police complaint against Abhishek Banerjee at the Rejinagar Police Station. Both Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee are currently in New Delhi to participate in the movement by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. Now, it remains to be seen whether the Diamond Harbour MP would be summoned to the Rejinagar Police Station for questioning in this matter. The bypolls for Rejinagar and Nandigram Assembly constituencies in East Midnapore district of West Bengal were conducted on October 6, and the results were declared on October 9. The BJP candidates got elected from both constituencies with massive margins. The party increased its tally in the 294-seat West Bengal Assembly to 209.
27 watershed projects in Bengal benefit 2.2 lakh farmers
9 months on, Sunalis son Apon still has no birth certificate
ISL 2026-27: We have nothing to lose,' says NorthEast United coach Benali ahead of opener
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Oct 10 (IANS) NorthEast United FC coach Juan Pedro Benali said his team has nothing to lose and must give its best on the pitch as it prepares to begin its Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 campaign against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in Guwahati on Monday. NorthEast United will host the Kolkata-based side at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati on October 12, looking to make a positive start to the new season in front of their home supporters. Speaking ahead of the opening fixture, Benali highlighted the importance of squad balance and competition for places, saying his team has players capable of performing in different positions depending on the opposition and the tactical approach. This year, we have a very balanced team. We have players who can play in different positions, depending on the opponent and the style we want to play. We need to be a consistent team, and having competition within the squad is important to ensure everyone is ready, Benali said. The NorthEast United coach also acknowledged the quality and experience of Mohun Bagan, stressing that his team would need to remain tactically flexible to deal with the challenge. They are a fantastic team with a lot of quality and experience. We need to have Plan A, Plan B and even Plan C, depending on how they play and how we want to attack and defend against them, he said. Benali said his primary objective was to ensure his players gave their all on the field while creating a positive atmosphere for the clubs supporters. I just want my players to be healthy and my fans to smile. I want the people to come to the games, see the stadium full and feel proud of their team. We have nothing to lose. We give everything on the pitch, and after the game, we move on to the next one, he added. NorthEast United will face a challenging test against Mohun Bagan, who boast considerable quality and experience, but Benalis side will look to use home advantage to begin their campaign on a positive note.
Tribal Affairs Ministry says 25 lakh titles distributed under Forest Rights Act
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 10 (IANS) As many as 25 lakh titles have been distributed out of the 54 lakh claims received till August 31 under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA), an official said on Saturday. Speaking at the Second Regional Review Conference on implementation of FRA in Kolkata, Joint Secretary, Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), said on Friday that out of over 54 lakh claims received nationally, about 11 lakh claims still remain pending at different stages. The official said over 18 lakh claims have been rejected, noting that Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Assam account for substantial pendency concentrated in particular districts, according to a statement. He highlighted that the Regional Conference focuses on the following key priorities such as timely disposal of pending claims and review of rejected claims in accordance with the Act and Rules, reconciliation of FRA data, digitisation of FRA case records, incorporation of recognised rights into revenue and forest records, acceleration of recognition of Community Forest Resource Rights and Habitat Rights recognition for PVTGs. The Conference brought together senior functionaries of the Tribal Welfare, Revenue and Forest Departments and Tribal Research Institutes of eight States, namely West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, said the statement. Additionally, senior officials of Andhra Pradesh were invited to share the best practices the State has undertaken on digitisation, integration of FRA titles into government records, taking up proactive measures on convergence of livelihood schemes with FRA titleholders and providing credit facilities to the right holders, said the statement. District officials- Collectors, Sub-Collectors and ITDP/ITDA Project Officers- from districts having a large pendency of FRA claims also attended to review the status of implementation and deliberate on a coordinated way forward. The Conference follows the First Regional Review Conference held in Bengaluru on September 10 for the Southern States. Secretary, MoTA, said that the FRA places the rights, dignity and aspirations of forest-dwelling communities at the heart of inclusive and sustainable development. She emphasised that recognised rights must be incorporated into Revenue and Forest records with accurate maps and that convergence with programmes for productive land use, housing and livelihoods must become a regular part of implementation. The Director, FRA, MoTA, presented the national scenario, including pendency in high-pendency States and priority districts. Her presentation also covered the importance of incorporating the Record of Forest Rights into revenue and forest records in line with the Ministrys advisory of June 24, 2026 and Habitat Rights under the Ministrys guidelines of January 5, 2026.
Petrol Diesel Price Today, October 10, 2026: Motorists across India have received some relief as petrol and diesel prices have remained largely unchanged in several major cities. While fuel rates in metropolitan areas such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai have shown stability, a few cities in B...
BJPs Bengal chief calls CJP stir anti-national, alleges backing by hostile forces
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 10 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) West Bengal president Samik Bhattacharya alleged that the ongoing movement by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which is demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, was anti-national in nature and backed by anti-national forces. Every citizen in a democratic country has the right to protest. However, irrelevant forces are trying to become relevant using the present movement. Today's protest is out of frustration. The government is keeping an eye on the issue. Anti-national forces are working in masks. We also have definite information in this regard. Remember, CJP withdrew the previous protest, which was on the NEET paper leak issues, happily, Bhattacharya, who is also BJPs Rajya Sabha member, told newspersons on Saturday. Without directly naming Congress and the Trinamool Congress faction led by Mamata Banerjee, the BJP leader said that a half-dead political force had joined hands with a dead force to stay relevant over the movement. On the occasion of Mahalaya today, the former West Bengal Chief Minister has gone to New Delhi instead of staying in the state. We want her to stay here during this time of festivity and visit various puja pandals. We want to see her doing that. Where have all the big Trinamool Congress leaders gone? Bhattacharya asked. Meanwhile, Mamata, in a video message on social media, alleged that she was prevented from reaching Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and kept confined to her residence in the national capital along with other Trinamool Congress leaders. In the social media video message, she also claimed that as she began staging a sit-in protest at South Avenue, Delhi Police personnel detained the Trinamool Congress leaders and bundled them into a prison van. I wanted to join the movement of the youths at Jantar Mantar. But we were not allowed. Then we started a peaceful sit-in-demonstration in front of our house. But the police detained us and pushed us into a police van, which is now moving around Delhi. The BJP is going all-out to end democracy in India. But they will not ultimately be successful, said Mamata in her social media live message from the police van.
Minister Agnimitra Paul Showcases Traditional Alpana Designs for Durga Puja in Kolkata
Agnimitra Paul highlights vibrant Alpana designs for Durga Puja in Kolkata, celebrating Bengals rich culture and art. Minister Agnimitra Paul Showcases Traditional Alpana Designs for Durga Puja in Kolkata
Will replace health secy if he had ordered repair work at RG Kar: Suvendu
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across metro cities on October 10
Rahane bats against impact player rule, calls it of 'no use'
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) Former India cricketer and IPL captain Ajinkya Rahane hit out at the contentious impact player rule in the Indian Premier League, advocating for the rule to be taken out. Rahane joined the chorus of several cricketers criticising the rule for reducing the growth of all-rounders in Indian cricket, calling it of no use. I think it should be taken out, Rahane, who has led Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals in the league, told Cricbuzz. I remember last year, before the IPL captains' meeting, most of the captains said they don't want the impact player rule. And I think the guidelines or the rules, they have it till 2027. So we don't know if this year they will take it out or after this year (when) the big auction is coming up, in that they will take it out. But ideally, I feel there is no point or use in having an impact rule, he added. The rule has also been hampering the growth of all-rounders in Indian cricket as franchises tend to replace batters with bowlers and vice-versa to get the best possible result with the bat or the ball. Hardik Pandya's absence from the Indian team has often found the Indian team searching for cover-ups, and although Shivam Dube and Nitish Reddy have turned up, they are still far from Hardik's capabilities. Moreover, there seem to be not many all-rounders in the pipeline, especially the fast-bowling all-rounders, which has been a rarity now in Indian cricket. All-rounders are going out of the game, especially in the IPL. And I am a firm believer that you've got to develop your all-rounders. From the Indian team's point of view, all-rounders are really important. So the impact player rule should be taken out. See, why I feel we should take it out is because last year, I don't want to take any team's name, but a few teams were probably at 90/7, 100/7, and they ended up getting 200 because of that one impact (rule), one extra batter with that. So, I feel (we should) give some advantage to bowlers, and also all-rounders should be involved in the games thoroughly. They should take it out, he added.
Dengue surge in Bengal hotspots raises concern ahead of Durga Puja
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 10 (IANS) A sudden rise in dengue cases in pockets of rural and urban West Bengal over the past month has raised concern in the administration ahead of the forthcoming Durga Puja festival. A state health department official said 14 gram panchayats and eight urban civic bodies, including three municipal corporations and five municipalities, had been identified as dengue hotspots following a sharp increase in cases in specific areas over the past month. Most of the 14 gram panchayats identified as dengue hotspots are in Murshidabad district. The others are in South 24 Parganas, Nadia, Jalpaiguri, Birbhum and Hooghly districts, the official said. The three municipal corporations reporting a similar trend in certain wards are the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation (BMC) in North 24 Parganas district and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC) in Howrah district, adjoining Kolkata. According to the official, six wards in the KMC, three in the HMC and four in the BMC have been identified as pockets witnessing a sudden rise in new dengue cases over the past month. Among the municipalities identified as sensitive zones are Chakdaha in Nadia district and Dumdum, South Dumdum, Kamarhati and Baranagar in North 24 Parganas district. During the current calendar year, the highest numbers of dengue cases have been reported from nine districts, namely Murshidabad, Kolkata, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Nadia, Hooghly, Howrah, Malda and East Burdwan. However, state health department figures show that the overall number of dengue cases reported so far in 2026 remains marginally lower than the corresponding figure for 2025. Till October 7, 2025, West Bengal had recorded 12,652 dengue cases, compared with 10,177 cases during the same period in 2026. Despite the lower cumulative tally, the recent rise in infections has emerged as a cause for concern. The health department official said 3,948 new cases were reported during September, while nearly 1,100 cases were recorded in the first week of October alone. Despite the lower overall number of cases this year, the worrying aspect is the recent rise in infections. While 3,948 new dengue cases were reported in September, nearly 1,100 cases were recorded in the first week of October alone, the official said.
Devotees Gather by the Ganges for Mahalaya Amavasya Rituals in Kolkata
On Mahalaya Amavasya, devotees perform rituals for ancestors along the Ganges in Kolkata, marking the start of Durga Puja festivities. Devotees Gather by the Ganges for Mahalaya Amavasya Rituals in Kolkata
Pesticides in breast milk? The unasked question in Kashmirs orchards
Srinagar, Oct 09: As chemical pesticides remain part of crop protection in Kashmirs apple-growing belt, an important environmental health question remains unanswered: are women who work in or live near orchards exposed to pesticides that can be detected in their breast milk? Research conducted in other parts of India has found pesticide residues in breast-milk samples collected from nursing mothers. However, comparable published evidence establishing the presence and concentrations of such residues among lactating women in Jammu and Kashmir was not identified in the literature reviewed for this report. The gap is significant for a region where horticulture supports thousands of farming households and women participate in a range of agricultural activities, including pruning, picking, sorting and handling harvested produce. Although these activities do not necessarily involve direct pesticide application, exposure may occur through contact with recently treated plants, contaminated surfaces or soil, spray drift and other environmental pathways. The extent of such exposure depends on the chemicals used, application practices, protective measures and the time elapsed since spraying. The absence of local breast-milk data means that the nature and extent of this potential exposure remain uncertain. Studies elsewhere in India detect pesticide residues Several peer-reviewed studies have investigated pesticide residues in human breast milk across India. A study published in Environmental Pollution in 2021 analysed 81 breast-milk samples collected from Kolkata and Nadia in West Bengal. Researchers detected organochlorine pesticides and selected newer compounds, including pyrethroids and neonicotinoids. Most of the substances investigated showed higher average concentrations in samples from Kolkata than in those from Nadia. In Assam, a study published in Science of the Total Environment in 2011 reported residues of DDT and HCH in breast milk collected from Dibrugarh and Nagaon. Another study, published in the same journal in 2013, analysed 53 breast-milk samples from Punjab and reported several pesticide compounds, including DDT and its metabolites, HCH isomers, endrin, endosulfan, cypermethrin and chlorpyrifos. Research published in Environmental Pollution in 2009 also documented persistent organochlorine compounds in breast milk collected from Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. The findings establish that selected pesticide compounds and their metabolites can be detected in human milk. However, the studies examined different populations under different conditions and cannot be used to estimate the prevalence of pesticide residues among mothers in Jammu and Kashmir. Nor do they establish that the same compounds or concentrations occur in Kashmiri women. Kashmirs horticultural sector warrants investigation The question assumes particular relevance in Kashmir, where apple cultivation is an important source of income and agricultural chemicals are used to protect crops against pests and fungal diseases. A study published in the Indian Journal of Medical and Paediatric Oncology in 2010 cited estimates of approximately 7,750 metric tonnes of fungicides and 3,186 metric tonnes of insecticides used annually in Kashmirs orchards. These are historical estimates and should not be treated as current consumption figures without verification against more recent official records. Pesticide-use figures alone cannot establish the level of exposure experienced by farmers or their families. The risks associated with individual chemicals differ, as do the ways in which they enter the environment and human body. For orchard workers, relevant exposure factors include pesticide handling, the use of protective equipment, the interval between spraying and returning to treated areas, and contact with treated crops. Residential proximity to orchards, dietary sources and drinking water may also be relevant. A local investigation would need to account for these factors rather than assume that orchard work is the sole source of exposure. Why breast-milk monitoring matters Certain persistent pesticides, including some organochlorine compounds, can remain in the environment for long periods and accumulate in fatty tissues. Some may subsequently be detected in human breast milk. Other pesticides have different chemical properties and may break down more rapidly. Their presence in breast milk cannot be assumed simply because they are used in agriculture. Scientists would therefore need to identify the chemicals currently used in Kashmirs horticulture and select a suitable laboratory testing panel. Samples would need to be analysed using validated methods, with results reported alongside laboratory detection limits and appropriate quality controls. A study could compare samples from lactating women directly involved in orchard work with those from women who live near orchards but do not handle pesticides, as well as women from areas with less direct horticultural exposure. Researchers could collect information on agricultural activities, pesticide-handling practices, protective equipment, residential location, diet and drinking-water sources. This would help examine whether detected residues are associated with particular exposure patterns. The findings would establish a baseline for the study population, although a cross-sectional study alone could not prove that orchard work caused a particular residue concentration. Detection does not automatically mean harm The detection of pesticide residues in breast milk does not, by itself, establish that a concentration is harmful to an infant. Health risks depend on the chemical, the concentration, the duration and route of exposure, and the available toxicological evidence. Public-health communication must therefore avoid equating the presence of a residue with a confirmed health effect. Breastfeeding should not be discontinued solely because of general reports about environmental pesticide contamination. Women concerned about a specific or substantial exposure should seek advice from qualified healthcare professionals. The more immediate priority is to reduce avoidable exposure among agricultural workers through appropriate protective equipment, adherence to product-specific safety instructions, observance of re-entry intervals and improved pesticide management. Integrated pest management, which combines pest monitoring, preventive measures and targeted chemical treatment, could also help reduce unnecessary pesticide applications. A research gap that needs attention For Jammu and Kashmir, the central question remains unresolved. The studies reviewed for this report do not establish whether pesticide residues are present in the breast milk of women working in the regions orchards, how frequently they might occur or which compounds warrant particular attention. Addressing the gap would require collaboration among agricultural scientists, public-health researchers, environmental laboratories and relevant government departments. Any study involving lactating women would also require ethics approval, informed consent, reliable laboratory procedures and safeguards for participants privacy. Alongside biological monitoring, authorities could improve records of pesticide use and strengthen environmental monitoring to help researchers identify locally relevant exposure pathways. For a region whose agricultural economy depends heavily on horticulture, measuring potential exposure is an important step towards understanding the wider environmental implications of pesticide use. Studies from other Indian states provide a basis for asking the question. Only systematic testing in Jammu and Kashmir can establish what, if anything, is present in the breast milk of women living and working around its orchards.
Two Bypoll results in Bengal vindicate state BJP
Both the CPI(M) and rebel TMC showed their irrelevance amongst rural voters By Tirthankar Mitra KOLKATA: By-poll results are usually predictable going in favour of the ruling party but the victory margin of twin electoral contests at Rejinagar and Nandigram declared on Friday, October 9 came as surprises. Even as a motley Opposition [] The post Two Bypoll results in Bengal vindicate state BJPs success in courting minorities appeared first on Northlines .
Suvendu retains backyard, party makes dent in minority zone
HC orders cop shield for interfaith couple forced to put off wedding
Kolkata Durga Puja: Pandal-Hopping Focus On Lebutala & Deshapriya Park
