NIA Raids 8 Sites in 3 States: Fake Note Case
Searches across Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal lead to the seizure of digital devices, documents and Bangladeshi currency.
NIA conducts raids at eight locations in Bihar, Jharkhand and Bengal in fake currency case
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 4 (IANS) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday conducted simultaneous searches at eight locations across Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal in connection with a fake Indian currency notes (FICN) smuggling case involving counterfeit notes with a face value of Rs 2.48 lakh. The searches were carried out at two locations in Aurangabad and three in Gaya district of Bihar, two locations in Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand and one location in Malda district of West Bengal. During the operations, NIA teams seized digital devices, incriminating documents, Bangladeshi currency and other materials suspected to be relevant to the investigation. The case relates to the recovery of fake Indian currency notes with a face value of Rs 2,48,500 within the jurisdiction of Madanpur police station in Aurangabad district of Bihar. Following the recovery, a case was registered at the Madanpur Police Station on August 15 against four accused persons identified as Surendra Kumar, Vijay Yadav, Ranjan, and Pradeep Saw, alias Pradeep Kumar Saw. The NIA subsequently re-registered the case on October 18 and took over the investigation following an order issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs. According to the agency, the investigation conducted so far has revealed that the accused were allegedly involved in the smuggling of fake Indian currency notes. The latest searches were conducted to gather further evidence and establish the wider network involved in the alleged counterfeit currency operation. The NIA is examining the seized digital devices, documents and other materials to identify possible links and determine the extent of the smuggling network. Further investigation into the case is underway. Earlier, on October 30, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge sheet against two accused persons in connection with the seizure of FICN worth Rs 50,150 in Madhubani district of Bihar. The charge sheet has been filed against Bharat Mahaseth and Shiv Kumar Raut alias Mehman under Sections 61(2), 179, 180 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. The case relates to the seizure of 281 counterfeit currency notes with a total face value of Rs 50,150 from Duhabi Bazar in the Basopatti area of Madhubani on August 2.
Sunday PropTech acquires 89-room hotel in Kolkata, marks entry into city
Sunday PropTech Ltd marks a significant milestone with its inaugural acquisition of an 89-room hotel in Rajarhat. This venue will be included in its emerging mid-premium Clubhouse brand, bolstering its footprint in eastern India. Given its advantageous proximity to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, it appeals to business travelers. The company plans to revamp and reposition the hotel, while also identifying additional investment prospects in West Bengal.
Calcutta HC bars Bengal SEC from announcing KMC poll schedule till ward delimitation case verdict
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 4 (IANS) A division bench of the Calcutta High Court said on Wednesday barred the West Bengal State Election Commission (WBSEC) for announcing the schedule for the forthcoming polls for the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) till the time the court pronounces the judgment in the case, challenging the delimitation of wards in Kolkata civic body is announced. The polling for seven urban civic bodies in West Bengal, including KMC and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC), is likely to take place in the last week of December, and the results are expected to be announced in the first week of January next year. Before that the delimitation of the wards in KMC had been announced, increasing the number of wards to 209 from the previous figure of 144. Meanwhile, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) approached the Calcutta High Court challenging the delimitation process. In the petition filed by CPI-M leader and former party Councillor Dipu Das, she claimed that despite some serious objections to the new ward delimitation being raised and a proposal was mooted for a 'spot visit' and a public hearing in the area to get the opinions of the citizens, no importance was given to those objections and proposals. The petitioner also claimed that several aspects, including the population and geographical location of the wards, were not properly considered in the delimitation exercise. She even claimed that this move was made to give benefits to a specific party. Initially, the matter was heard at the Calcutta High Court's single-judge bench of Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharya. However, instead of passing any specific order in the matter, Justice Bhattacharya directed all parties concerned to file affidavits in the matter. Thereafter, the petitioner approached the division bench of Justice Sabyasachi Bhattacharya and Justice Arjun Roy challenging the order of the single-judge bench. The petitioner contended that if the WBSEC would announce the schedule of the KMC before a clear judgment in the matter, her petition would not have any relevance. The matter came up for hearing at the division bench on Wednesday. At the end of the hearing, that division bench said that the WBSEC should not announce the schedule of the KMC polls till the court pronounced its verdict in the matter.
Gujarat: Bharat Parv draws over 25,000 visitors to Ekta Nagar in first three days
Digital Desk | Ekta Nagar, Nov 4 (IANS) More than 25,000 people visited 'Bharat Parv 2026' at Ekta Nagar, near the Statue of Unity, between November 1 and 3, as the 15-day event brings together the traditional crafts, regional cuisines and cultural performances of states and Union Territories from across the country. Organised by the Union Ministry of Tourism in association with Gujarat Tourism, the festival will continue until November 15, showcasing India's cultural diversity under the theme of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. Tourism pavilions set up by various states and Union Territories are displaying popular destinations, traditional art forms, handicrafts and handloom products. The exhibits include Sambalpuri sarees, Pattachitra paintings, applique work and silver filigree from Odisha; Muga silk and Mekhela-Chadar from Assam; Madhubani paintings, Bhagalpur silk and Sikki grass craft from Bihar; and Chanderi and Maheshwari sarees and Gond art from Madhya Pradesh. Other highlights include Pashmina and Kani shawls from Jammu and Kashmir, Pochampally Ikat sarees from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat's Patola, Pithora art and Ajrakh printing. Bamboo crafts from Chhattisgarh and shell art products from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also on display. Artisans are conducting live demonstrations to familiarise visitors with traditional craft-making techniques. The pavilions also allow visitors to purchase handicrafts and handloom products directly from participating artisans and exhibitors. Food is another major attraction, with 25 stalls representing states including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Sikkim, Assam, Ladakh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Gujarat. The stalls offer regional specialities such as Litti Chokha and Thekua from Bihar, Dal Baati and Pyaz Kachori from Rajasthan, Gajak and Ratlam Sev from Madhya Pradesh, Jhalmuri and Patisapta Pitha from West Bengal, Veg Momo and Sel Roti from Sikkim, and Nadru Yakhni and Zafrani Kahwa from Kashmir. Studio Kitchens operated by IIHM Shimla and IIHM Gandhinagar are also holding daily live demonstrations of Indian cuisines, giving visitors an opportunity to watch the preparation of regional dishes and learn about the country's culinary traditions. The festival also features cultural performances every evening by artists from different states, presenting folk music, traditional dances and other regional art forms. Meanwhile, the Statue of Unity will remain open on Monday, November 9, in view of Bharat Parv and the Diwali vacation. However, the viewing gallery will remain closed on the day. The additional opening is intended to provide tourists and families with another opportunity to visit the monument during the holiday period. Bharat Parv 2026 will continue at Ekta Nagar until November 15, with tourism exhibitions, handicraft displays, food stalls, culinary demonstrations and cultural performances.
Bengal: Rs 1.40 crore recovered from Kharagpur station; one arrested
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 4 (IANS) Rs 1.40 crore was recovered from Kharagpur station in West Midnapore district on Wednesday, an official said. The money was being brought from Tatanagar in Jharkhand to Howrah in West Bengal. Before it reached its destination, it was caught by the Government Railway Police (GRP). A passenger has also been arrested in connection with the incident. According to a Kharagpur GRP official, the incident took place in the morning. Rahul Soni was travelling from Tatanagar to Howrah by taking the Jan Shatabdi Express. When the train stopped at Kharagpur station, the GRP personnel on duty became suspicious after seeing his movements. He was standing on platform number seven in Kharagpur with one bag on his back and two bags in his hand. According to the official, Rahul tried to escape as the GRP personnel advanced towards him. However, he was finally caught. As the GRP personnel started questioning him, Rahul started giving incoherent answers. This further increased their suspicions. Finally, as soon as they started searching his bag, the GRP personnel on duty found bundles of Rs 500 notes in the bag. A total of 280 bundles of notes were recovered from him. Rahul could not give a satisfactory answer about where this huge amount of cash came from. Therefore, the Kharagpur GRP detained him and informed the Income Tax Department. Later, he was also formally arrested. Superintendent of Railway Police (Kharagpur) Jayanta Mukherjee said that the passenger is being interrogated to find out the source of this huge amount of money. According to the GRP official, the arrested person's house is in Howrah. During interrogation, he admitted that he was bringing the money from Tatanagar to Howrah. However, it is still not clear from whom in Tatanagar he was bringing the money and for what purpose. There are reports of such cash being recovered from the Howrah station premises from time to time. Many people are also caught for not being able to show the source of the cash. This time, more than one crore rupees in cash was recovered from Kharagpur station. Incidentally, shortly before this news came to light, Diamond Harbour Police had also recovered more than one crore rupees from a Trinamool Congress party office in Sarisha of South 24 Parganas district.
Royal Bengal tigress travels to Assam, brought back to Buxa
A Royal Bengal Tigress, designated BT1, from West Bengal's Buxa Tiger Reserve, was safely captured in Assam's Raimona National Park after travelling over 100 km and nearing human settlements. The capture was a result of a coordinated effort between the forest departments of West Bengal and Assam.
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Nov 4 (IANS) More than 70 trips of special trains are being operated by Western Railway to accommodate the festive rush during Diwali and Chhath Puja, with additional security personnel, holding areas and round-the-clock CCTV surveillance arranged at Ahmedabad, Sabarmati and Asarva stations to manage passenger movement. The special train services, primarily connecting destinations in northern and eastern India, are aimed at facilitating passengers travelling to Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. Additional coaches have also been attached to several regular trains to increase passenger capacity. Divisional Railway Manager Ved Prakash said the arrangements had been made keeping in mind the expected increase in passenger numbers during the festive period. The railway administration had also accounted for passengers travelling on around 20 to 25 through-passing trains arriving from Rajkot and Bhuj and passing through Ahmedabad and Sabarmati stations, he said. The special trains operating in November include services between Sabarmati and Lalkuan, Asarva and Kanpur Central, Asarva and Agra Cantt, Bhuj and Bandra Terminus, Ahmedabad and Mangaluru Junction, Sabarmati and Haridwar, Ahmedabad and Darbhanga, Gandhidham and Bhagalpur, Sabarmati and Prayagraj, Ahmedabad and Mumbai Central, Ahmedabad and Malda Town, Asarva and Prayagraj, and Ahmedabad and Rajgir. The railway administration, Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP) and traffic police have jointly drawn up a plan to regulate passenger movement and prevent overcrowding at the three stations. Separate arrangements have been made for unreserved passengers and those holding reserved tickets. The movement of reserved passengers, from entering the station and reaching the platform to waiting and boarding their trains, has been eased to avoid congestion. A total of 110 additional RPF personnel have been deployed at the three stations, including 55 at Ahmedabad, 40 at Sabarmati and 15 at Asarva. .An additional company of the Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) has also been deployed at Ahmedabad station. The railway administration has assigned officers and staff to round-the-clock duties at all three stations. Holding areas have been arranged to accommodate passengers in an orderly manner before they are taken to platforms in queues at the scheduled time for boarding. Women, persons with disabilities, senior citizens and passengers travelling with children are being given priority. Ahmedabad station has 119 CCTV cameras, while Sabarmati station has 121. A proposal has also been submitted to install 60 additional cameras to strengthen surveillance. Staff have been deployed in the CCTV control rooms round the clock to monitor station premises and passenger movement. RPF personnel in plain clothes have also been deployed to prevent crimes against passengers. At Sabarmati station, queue management arrangements cover the entire process, from ticket counters and holding areas to platforms and train boarding. Passengers are directed to the holding area after purchasing tickets and subsequently taken to the platform in an orderly manner at the designated time. Announcements through public address systems and loudhailers are being used to advise passengers against pushing or jostling, travelling while standing on train footboards and accepting food or beverages from strangers. They are also being alerted about the safety of women and children during the journey.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday chaired a review meeting at the Panchayat and Rural Development Department to assess the progress of the VB-G RAM-G and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana schemes. The meeting focused on rural employment generation, infrastructure development and the implementation of various government programmes across the state. Speaking to the media after the meeting, the Chief Minister expressed satisfaction over the progress made under the schemes and said the state was on track to achieve its target of generating 22 crore person-days of employment. He highlighted the employment opportunities being generated through the programme and expressed confidence in the department's ability to meet its targets. Adhikari said, There was a review meeting regarding VB-G RAM-G and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana scheme today. The progress is very good. We are on track to meet both targets: the creation of 22 crore person-days of employment. As of today, a significa...
Watch: West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari urges migrant workers to return, cites 125-day job scheme
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has urged migrant workers to return to the State, highlighting the 125-day job guarantee scheme. He said the government would launch a village-to-village campaign using folk artists to encourage workers to come home and work with their families. Adhikari also cited opportunities in sectors such as fish farming, agriculture, betel leaf cultivation and pineapple farming. He said workers could receive 34,500 under the scheme and that the government would seek higher wages for unskilled labourers and support for construction workers.
Assam CM targets Rahul Gandhi at Bihar rally, sparks row with Bangladesh remark
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 4 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched a sharp attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during the BJP's Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao campaign in Bihar's Purnea district on Wednesday, triggering political debate with his controversial remarks linking the Congress leader to Bangladesh. Defending the revision of electoral rolls and the removal of names such as Babar and Aurangzeb from voter lists, Sarma said there was nothing objectionable about the exercise and accused Rahul Gandhi of raising unwarranted concerns over the issue. Taking a dig at the Congress leader, Sarma said that he, along with Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari, would send Rahul Gandhi to Bangladesh, where he could perhaps win an election. He remarked that since Rahul Gandhi was unable to win elections in Bihar, West Bengal or Assam, Bangladesh could be a suitable destination for him. Sarma also targeted Rahul Gandhi over his allegations of 'vote theft', saying that the issue was not about stealing votes but about 'stealing hearts'. Referring to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, he said a grand temple now stands at the site where the Babri Masjid had existed for nearly 500 years. He questioned whether this development could also be described as 'stealing hearts'. Speaking about the Seemanchal region of Bihar, Assam and West Bengal, the Assam Chief Minister said the situation in these areas was well known and demanded that the Election Commission undertake a fresh Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. He reiterated that names such as Babar and Aurangzeb should be removed from voter lists, arguing that such action represented a 'theft of hearts' rather than a 'theft of votes'. His remarks have sparked political discussion, particularly over references to Bangladesh and the linkage of electoral roll revision with historical and religious figures. The BJP's Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao campaign was launched in Bhagalpur earlier this week and is being carried forward across several regions as part of the party's outreach programme.
Bodies of 2 more trekkers found after Kedartal avalanche
Bodies of two more trekkers, part of a group of eight missing on the Kedartal route, were recovered on Wednesday, bringing the total to four fatalities from the group. The trekkers went missing six days ago after an avalanche. Rescue operations are hampered by heavy snow, while families of the missing, including those from West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, await news.
Industry leaders want West Bengals proposed new industrial policy to deliver faster clearances, transparent land allocation, reliable infrastructure and incentives tied to job creation. Here's all we know:
ED raids 10 places across Odisha, Bengal in money laundering case of Kalpana Financial Services
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday carried out searches at 10 premises across Odisha and West Bengal in the case of Kalpana Financial Services Private Limited and its director Amit Mandal, officials said. ED's Bhubaneswar zonal office is conducting the search operation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. ED said the PMLA case was initiated on the basis of a First Information Report (FIR) registered by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in connection with an investment fraud operated principally under the name
West Bengal Class 10 Board Exam 2027 To Be Held In March? Here's All We Know So Far
The WBBSE Class 10 examinations are proposed to be held from 10:45 am to 2 pm, with 15 minutes allotted for reading the question paper.
West Bengal Forms SIT to Investigate Controversial Encounter in Samserganj
A five-member SIT has been established in Kolkata to investigate the police encounter of murder suspect Samiul Sheikh in Samserganj. West Bengal Forms SIT to Investigate Controversial Encounter in Samserganj
IIHM Scot Malt Tour 2026: Taking Hospitality Education Beyond Borders
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], November 4: Hospitality education in India is evolving beyond conventional classroom learning, and the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), Asia's largest chain of hotel schools, is taking this transformation across international borders. Through experiential learning in hospitality and strong industry partnerships, IIHM continues to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. Reflecting its philosophy of High Tech, Higher Touch, the institution is redefining hospitality education by creating opportunities for students to learn directly from global industries and explore career possibilities beyond traditional hotel operations.
Former West Bengal Minister Indranil Sen Arrested in Fake Durga Puja Pass Scam
Indranil Sen, ex-tourism minister of West Bengal, arrested in a scandal involving fake Durga Puja passes linked to UNESCO tours. Former West Bengal Minister Indranil Sen Arrested in Fake Durga Puja Pass Scam
Dilip Ghosh Urges Caution in Language from Religious Leaders Amid Political Commentary
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh advises religious figures to choose words carefully in light of recent political statements. Dilip Ghosh Urges Caution in Language from Religious Leaders Amid Political Commentary
5-member SIT formed to probe October 27 encounter killing in Bengals Samserganj
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 4 (IANS) West Bengal Police have formed a five-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the encounter killing of Samiul Sheikh, a murder accused, at Samserganj in Murshidabad on the afternoon of October 27. As per the police version, Sheikh, one of the three accused in the murder of a local BJP leader, Sujit Mondal, was taken to the scene of the crime for recreation of the crime scene, when he tried to escape after snatching the firearm of an escorting police officer. The police claimed that as he fired a few rounds of bullets towards the escorting cops, an inspector present at the spot resorted to counter-firing, in which Sheikh was killed. Now, a five-member SIT has been constituted to probe the encounter matter on the state government's direction, as confirmed by the Deputy Inspector General (Murshidabad Range), Ajeet Singh Yadav, to the media persons. First, an official notification on the formation of the SIT was announced, and subsequently, the five-member SIT was constituted. The SIT will be headed by the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Deibyendu Tamang. The other four members of the SIT are Swarup Biswas, Abhijit Sarkar, Nilesh Chandra Sarkar and Mithun Halder. While Biswas is an inspector-rank officer, the other three are in the ranks of sub-inspectors. To recall, Sujit Mondal, a local BJP leader and a resident of the Old Dakbanglo area of Samserganj, mysteriously disappeared on August 28. His dismembered body was later recovered. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had then said that Mondal was killed with a meat-cutting knife. The police later arrested the three accused, namely Samiul Sheikh, Tajkira Bibi and Johnny Sheikh. Of the three, Sheikh was killed in the police encounter on October 27. The murder case also sparked allegations of police negligence. Mondal's wife, Sumana Mondal, alleged that despite repeatedly approaching the local police station after her husband's disappearance, she received no assistance. The incident led to disciplinary action against several police officials, including suspensions, transfers and departmental inquiries. The Chief Minister then termed it a 'major blunder'.
SIT probing ex-Bengal Minister Indranil Sen case expanded, four more officers included
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 4 (IANS) Additional officers have been included in the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Kolkata Police probing Indranil Sen, former West Bengal Tourism Minister and former Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs, in connection with his alleged involvement in the multi-crore fake Durga Puja pass case linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours. An insider from the city police said that when the SIT was initially constituted, it had five members, and the number has now been increased to nine. The four new officers from the city police are experts in anti-forgery operations. It is learnt that, in addition to the main fake Durga Puja pass case linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours, the investigating officers have found specific clues about Sen's involvement in tendering irregularities in both the state tourism and information and cultural affairs departments, which has widened the scope of the investigation. That is why, the city police insider said, the number of investigating officers in the SIT has been increased. The SIT members are already in touch with the two state government departments to procure the necessary documents required to carry forward the investigation against Sen, a singer-turned-politician. Sen, who is currently in police custody, is being questioned by the investigating officers for marathon hours daily. Apart from that, the SIT members have questioned nine other people in the matter, the most important of which is his wife, Madhuchhanda Sen, the owner of Mass Art, the entity through which the fake Durga Puja passes were allegedly sold. Sen is supposed to be presented at a lower court in Kolkata on November 10. The city police insider said that before the court visit, the investigating officers are trying to gather as much evidence-based information as possible to prevent the former minister from getting bail in the case. The Kolkata Police and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have been conducting parallel investigations into the alleged scam involving passes for UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja tours. The Kolkata police arrested Sen after he came out of the ED's Salt Lake office on the northern outskirts of Kolkata last week.
Posters showing Rahul Gandhi dozing off in Parliament surface in Kolkata
Putting up posters in such bad taste against someone who holds a national-level office is unacceptable, West Bengal Congress leadership says
BJP leaders criticise Mamata-Congress bonhomie
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari accused Mamata Banerjee of allying with anarchists in Delhi
Buxa tigress captured in Assam after crossing into Raimona reserve for habitat exploration
BuxaRani, a tigress relocated from Buxa Tiger Reserve, was tranquilized and captured in Assam's Kokrajhar. After crossing the Sankosh river, the tigress entered Raimona National Park in search of suitable territory. West Bengal Forest Minister Manoj Oraon confirmed coordination efforts with Assam's officials to ensure her return.
Womens self-help groups shine at SARAS Mela
Srinagar, Nov 03: The 10-day SARAS Mela 2025 concluded on Tuesday here at Poloview Park celebrating Indias unity in diversity and promoting women entrepreneurship nationwide. The Mela which began here at the poloview park Srinagar on 25th October continued till today, offering the visitors a myriad collection of hand made products and cuisines from across the country. More than 200 women artisans from different parts of rural India participated and showcased their products on 80 stalls provided by the JKRLM for exhibition and sale. Women from self-help groups from 17 states /UTs displayed handicraft, handloom and natural food items from different rural areas in the vibrant stalls handled and managed by Women SHG members. Some of the prominent items displayed at the stalls were the handmade cloth from Jammu-Kashmir with sozni and ariwork, Kutchi handloom from Gujurat ,Phulkari suits from Punjab ,Pickles from Lakshwadeep, Pochampalli Ikkat from Telengana, Sambhalpuri from odisha, Kantha from West Bengal and many more . Addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony, Mission Director JKRLM, Dr Shubhra Sharma, expressed satisfaction over the successful culmination of the Mela, highlighting the encouraging sales, participation of women entrepreneurs from different States/UTs and the overall coordination of the event. She remarked, This year's SARAS Mela has recorded encouraging sales, while the participation of different States and UTs has made it a truly enriching experience. She added,the very purpose of organising the SARAS Mela has been fulfilled. Beyond business and the showcasing of products, the Mela has provided a shared platform where SHG members from across the country have come together, built bonds of friendship, shared experiences and explored opportunities for mutual learning and economic gains. Dr Shubhra Sharma also expressed her gratitude to the line departments for their active participation and support throughout the Mela. She particularly acknowledged the media for its coverage and for helping bring the stories, products and entrepreneurial efforts of rural women to a wider audience. The Mela concluded with a felicitation ceremony, where SHG members were awarded certificates for their outstanding contributions. In the awards category, Rajashtan secured first position for best sales, while Srinagar district bagged the top honour in the best food category. The closing ceremony was attended by Additional Mission Director JKRLM Syed Naseer Ahmad, State project Managers JKRLM besides other staff members of the Mission
Defeated netas have come together, conspiring to spread anarchy: Suvendu
Old Kol phanush flyers run between govt depts for nod
BJP netas union rift brings cargo ops to a halt at Petrapole
Birth registers at police stations delay birth cert clearance
Garia burglars audacity captured in CCTV footage sends shockwaves among locals
After pushback, CISCE asks schools, students to get ready for SHINE, PISA
Venice winner Anuparna Roy seeks resignation of SRFTI VC and revocation of students rustication
Cannes winner Anuparna Roy seeks resignation of SRFTI VC and revocation of students rustication
Calcutta High Court on Free School Street fire
Dip in gold, silver prices adds glitz to jewellery mkt in festive season
Kolkata advocate attacked after refusing puja subscription demand
In a first, KMC engineers join cops to inspect stability of Kali Puja pandals
Met predicts dry Diwali and cooler nights ahead
Hanuman Ansh director urges dialogue
West Bengal tigress safely captured in Assam after travelling over 100 km from Buxa Tiger Reserve
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 3 (IANS) A tigress from West Bengal's Buxa Tiger Reserve, which travelled more than 100 km across state boundaries before reaching human settlements in Assam's Kokrajhar district, has been safely captured following a coordinated operation involving forest officials from the two states, Assam Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah said on Tuesday. Sharing details of the operation in a post on social media platform X, Mallabaruah described it as a commendable example of inter-state coordination and collective commitment to wildlife conservation. He congratulated the forest departments of Assam and West Bengal, district administration, police personnel and local communities for ensuring the safe capture of the animal. The tigress, identified as BT1, was released into the wild at Buxa Tiger Reserve on October 2. However, she subsequently travelled more than 100 km and entered Assam, eventually reaching Raimona National Park in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). According to the Minister, the tigress continued moving through forested landscapes from October 23 onwards before approaching human settlements in Kokrajhar district, prompting concerns over the safety of both the animal and local residents. Considering the potential risks, forest officials from West Bengal and Assam initiated a coordinated operation to track the tigress, monitor her movements and assess the situation. The operation also involved the support of the district administration, police and local communities. The coordinated intervention eventually resulted in the safe capture of BT1, preventing a potentially dangerous situation as the animal had moved closer to inhabited areas. Mallabaruah emphasised that wildlife movement does not remain confined to administrative boundaries and that such incidents underline the importance of cooperation between neighbouring states in protecting wildlife. He said inter-state coordination was particularly crucial in landscapes where animal movement frequently extends beyond protected forest areas and into human settlements. Congratulating all the teams involved, the Minister said the successful operation demonstrated how collective efforts by forest departments, law enforcement agencies, local administration and communities could deliver meaningful outcomes for wildlife conservation. BT1 is safe, and that is what matters most, Mallabaruah said, describing the operation as an important example of cooperation between states for wildlife protection. The incident also highlights the importance of coordinated wildlife monitoring and timely intervention in the transboundary forest corridors of Northeast India, where the movement of large mammals often extends across protected areas and state boundaries.
Calcutta University fills all 187 vacant BTech seats in single campus round
Thane mans organs saves 3 lives after brain death in Kolkata
Ghum Winter Festival to mark 27 years of DHRs Unesco heritage status
State signs MoU with NBCC for city and riverfront revamp: Minister
Kolkata Police inducts 4 horses, eyes Republic Day parade
Former Bengal minister Indranil Sen booked under WBMPO Act after seven sections of BNS
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) Former West Bengal Tourism Minister and former Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs, Indranil Sen, who had been accused and arrested by the Kolkata police for his alleged involvement in a fake Durga Puja pass case linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours, had also been booked on Tuesday under a particular section of the West Bengal Maintenance of Public Order (WBMPO) Act, 1972, besides seven sections under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. Sources from the Kolkata police aware of the development, said that Sen, a singer-turned-politician, had been booked under Section 9 of the WBMPO Act, 1972, which relates to penalty for subversive acts, where a person committing any subversive act can be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to ten years, or with fine, or with both. Legal analysts say that the development would bring further trouble for the former Minister considering that he had already been booked under seven sections of the BNS, 2023, Section 316 (criminal breach of trust), Sections 336(2) and 336(3) (forgery and forgery for cheating), Section 338 (forgery of valuable security and other specified documents), Section 318 (cheating), Section 61(2) (criminal conspiracy), and Section 340(2) (using a forged document or electronic record as genuine). According to preliminary findings, financial irregularities involving several crores of rupees allegedly took place between 2022 and 2025 in the name of UNESCO and Durga Puja celebrations through Mass Art Society, a corporate entity owned by Sen's wife Madhuchhanda Sen. Investigators have also found indications that the former Minister allegedly withdrew substantial sums from various organisations in the name of UNESCO by using his influence, the sources added. The investigating officers of the city police are currently examining other angles in this massive financial forgery, including the floating and use of shell companies to divert funds. Sen is currently in police custody, and he will be presented at a lower court in Kolkata again on November 10. The Kolkata Police and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) have been conducting parallel investigations into the alleged scam involving passes for UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja tours. The Kolkata police arrested Sen after he emerged from the ED's Salt Lake office on the northern outskirts of Kolkata last week.
West Bengal's first relocated tigress captured on sojourn in Assam, returned to Buxa
TMC Leader Criticizes Bageshwar Babas Political Influence in West Bengal
TMCs Madan Mitra questions Bageshwar Babas influence in West Bengal and criticizes BJPs political stance. TMC Leader Criticizes Bageshwar Babas Political Influence in West Bengal
Kolkata: Rahul Gandhi's 'sleeping posters' surface in Salt Lake
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) Parts of Salt Lake in the northern outskirts of Kolkata, on Tuesday, were flooded with posters featuring pictures of Congress leader and the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi taking a nap when the House was in session. The posters also carried a slogan -- Desh Ki Neta Aisa Ho? (Should the country have a leader like this). However, it is still not clear who put up such posters, and no individual or group has claimed responsibility for it. The said posters depicted two separate pictures of the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. In one picture, Rahul Gandhi is seen sitting with his hands on his cheeks, and his eyes closed during a session of the Parliament. In another picture, he is seen sitting in a reclining position with his hands on the seat within the House. The message conveyed through the poster is that Rahul Gandhi was sleeping inside the Parliament when the House was in session. The development surfaces at a time when Rahul Gandhi is spearheading a movement at New Delhi, uniting all the opposition forces against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voters' lists in the country as well as demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on the other hand, had started a counter campaign throughout the country under the aegis of Save Democracy, Eliminate Anarchy. On Monday, a mega rally on this count was organised in Kolkata, which was led by the BJP President Nitin Nabin. At the end of the rally, Nabin addressed a gathering and said that just as West Bengal had been freed from the misrule of Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress in the Assembly polls earlier this year, now Delhi too needs to be freed from Rahul Gandhi quickly. On Tuesday, a similar rally was organised at Siliguri in Darjeeling district, which was led by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. On Tuesday, the Chief Minister said that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is trying to eliminate illegal infiltrators from the voters' list while Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi were trying to protect them.
ABVP announces 'Kolkata Chalo' rally on November 20
At a press conference at the ABVP's West Bengal state office, the organisation's leaders called for protecting democratic institutions and constitutional values.
West Bengal Chief Minister Unveils Plans for Health and Tourism Development
West Bengals CM announces major health and tourism initiatives in Siliguri, enhancing infrastructure and services in North Bengal. West Bengal Chief Minister Unveils Plans for Health and Tourism Development
West Bengal CM Accuses Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee of Protecting Illegal Immigrants
West Bengals CM criticizes Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee for allegedly shielding illegal immigrants during a press conference. West Bengal CM Accuses Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee of Protecting Illegal Immigrants
Bengal CM announces Rs 5,000 aid for 19,524 tea garden workers ahead of Diwali
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced financial assistance of Rs 5,000 for tea garden workers. The government is considering increasing rice allocation from 35 kg to 50 kg for these workers. Adhikari emphasized the commitment to reopen closed tea gardens for better employment opportunities. He also mentioned upcoming employment benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Chaa Shramik Yojana for eligible workers.
Bengal CM announces Rs 5,000 aid for 19,524 tea garden workers ahead of Diwali
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced financial assistance of Rs 5,000 for tea garden workers. The government is considering increasing rice allocation from 35 kg to 50 kg for these workers. Adhikari emphasized the commitment to reopen closed tea gardens for better employment opportunities. He also mentioned upcoming employment benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Chaa Shramik Yojana for eligible workers.
Bengal govt official held while accepting bribe in North 24 Parganas
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the West Bengal Police on Tuesday arrested an official of the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) after catching him red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000 in New Barrackpore of North 24 Parganas district, officials said. According to the ACB, the official was accused of accepting bribes for installing a new electricity connection and transformer. According to ACB officials, the arrest followed a written complaint lodged by a local resident, who alleged that the official had demanded Rs 20,000 to facilitate the installation of a new electricity connection and a 315 KVA transformer in the area. Acting on the complaint, ACB officers conducted a verification exercise and laid a trap. As part of the operation, the complainant met the accused official at a pre-arranged location on Tuesday and handed over the money. The ACB team immediately intervened and apprehended the official while allegedly receiving the bribe. The entire amount was recovered from his possession. Following preliminary investigations, a case has been registered against the accused under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Investigators are now examining whether other individuals were involved in the alleged bribery network or if the accused was acting on behalf of a larger group. The arrest was made based on a case registered under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended by the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, an official said. The latest action comes a day after the ACB arrested a suspended sub-assistant engineer of Raghunathpur Municipality in Purulia district in connection with multiple corruption allegations. The probe involves alleged corruption, misappropriation of government funds, irregularities in municipal works and suspected irregularities related to government land.
Bengal CM announces healthcare and tourism sectors development
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The West Bengal Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, on Tuesday, chaired an administrative review meeting at Siliguri in Darjeeling district in the northern sector of West Bengal and made a host of announcements for the overall development of the healthcare and tourism sectors in the hill regions in North Bengal. The Chief Minister announced that the foundation stone of Kalimpong Medical College & Hospital will be laid on December 9, 2027. In addition to that, we have decided to carry out extensive repairs, modernisation and infrastructural improvements to the sub-division and district hospitals of Darjeeling, Kurseong, Kalimpong, Mirik and Siliguri, the Chief Minister said. According to the Chief Minister, strengthening the health infrastructure in North Bengal will ensure access to improved medical services for thousands of people staying in the region, and they will not have to move elsewhere to get proper treatment facilities. He also announced the approval for a 21-kilometre ropeway project connecting Darjeeling and Kurseong. According to him, once this ropeway project is operational in mountainous areas, it will not only relieve the problem of severe traffic congestion but will also make travel much easier and more enjoyable both for the residents and the tourists from home and abroad. The Chief Minister, at the administrative review meeting, also gave directions to complete the repair and renovation work of all government tourist lodges in the region at the earliest. He also gave a green signal to the proposal to upgrade the Lebong Ground into a modern stadium of international standards to develop the talent of the sports-loving youth of the hills. The Chief Minister also announced an allocation of Rs 19 crore for the beautification, infrastructural transformation and regular maintenance of the sacred and historical Mahakal Temple premises in Darjeeling. Thanking the Chief Minister for these announcements, the BJPs Lok Sabha member from Darjeeling, Raju Bista, said that the expansion of communication systems, health services, sports and spiritual tourism will create employment opportunities for the local youth and completely transform the economic landscape of North Bengal.
Tigress sighting: Kokrajhar admin declares 5-km zone around Assam village restricted
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 3 (IANS) The Kokrajhar district administration in Assam has imposed prohibitory restrictions within a five-kilometre radius of Gelaguri village following the sighting of a female Royal Bengal tigress reportedly straying into the area from neighbouring West Bengal, officials said on Tuesday. The restrictions were imposed through an order issued by District Magistrate Pankaj Chakravarty under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, citing potential threats to human life and livestock and the need to ensure an uninterrupted operation to capture the animal. According to the administration, the tigress was first spotted on November 2 in the forest-fringe areas of Gelaguri village under the Dotma Revenue Circle. The Divisional Forest Officer of the Kachugaon Forest Division had reported the animal's presence. The restricted zone includes Gelaguri, East Bongshigaon, West Dangarkhuti, North Bhalukmari, Dangarkhuti and Ghoramari villages. Under the order, gatherings of five or more people for watching or chasing the animal have been prohibited. Entry into forest and jungle patches within the designated area will require prior permission from the Divisional Forest Officer concerned. The administration has also banned carrying firearms, traditional weapons such as daos and spears, traps, poison and snares within the restricted zone. Activities that could disturb the animal or hamper the rescue operation, including bursting firecrackers, beating drums, using loudspeakers, lighting fires and deploying flashlights to locate the tigress, have also been prohibited. Private drone operations and photography or videography of the capture operation will require prior authorisation. The order further cautions against spreading rumours or unverified information on social media, particularly claims describing the tigress as a man-eater or alleging that it has been shot. Authorised forest personnel, wildlife experts from the Wildlife Trust of India and National Tiger Conservation Authority, police and other government teams deployed for the operation have been exempted. The restrictions will remain effective until the Divisional Forest Officer formally declares the capture operation concluded. Violations will attract prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
Birbhum District Health and Family Welfare Samity Recruitment 2026
Birbhum District Health and Family Welfare Samity (Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health & Secretary, District Health and Family Welfare Samity, AYUSH Branch, Birbhum), Government of West Bengal has released Notification No. 453 /DMO/AYUSH/ Birbhum for 7 vacancies, including Ayush Doctor, Multi-Purpose Worker, and DATA Entry Operator NAM posts. Eligible candidates can apply online at wbhealth.gov.in from 03 November 2026 to 17 November 2026.
Young Santoor Prodigy From Bengal Sets Record With 60 Gats Across 59 Ragas In Under 30 Minutes
Young musician Angshuman Sarkar from Nadia, West Bengal, earns an India Book of Records recognition by performing 60 gat compositions across 59 ragas in 29 minutes and 32 seconds.
West Bengal Board of Secondary Education has submitted a proposal seeking approval of revised dates, citing deployment of teachers for Census exercise
West Bengal Police Busts Major Betel Nut Smuggling Ring, Chief Minister Praises Action
West Bengal police seized over 117,000 kg of suspected betel nut in a major bust, earning commendation from the Chief Minister. West Bengal Police Busts Major Betel Nut Smuggling Ring, Chief Minister Praises Action
Old Image Falsely Linked to INDIA Bloc
The image dates back to 2019 and shows visuals of a Left Front rally in Kolkata, West Bengal.
Eight Trekkers Missing in Uttarakhand Avalanche, Rescue Efforts Underway
Eight trekkers, including five from West Bengal, are missing in Uttarakhand following an avalanche. Rescue operations are ongoing. Eight Trekkers Missing in Uttarakhand Avalanche, Rescue Efforts Underway
Major Betel Nut Syndicate Busted In West Bengal
West Bengal police, led by Falakata Police in Alipurduar district, have busted a large illegal betel nut syndicate, seizing over 117,000 kg of produce, much of which is believed to be of foreign origin. Two individuals were apprehended, and further raids are ongoing as the state government reaffirms its commitment to combating illicit trade.
West Bengal Board Sends Proposal To Education Department To Hold Class 10 Exam In March
The board has sent a revised examination schedule to the state education department for consideration, proposing to conduct the exams from March 2 to 16.
Cyclone Murasu Delays Winter Onset in West Bengal, Relief Expected Before Kali Puja
Cyclone Murasu is causing a delay in winter temperatures in West Bengal, with a forecast for improvement before Kali Puja on November 8. Cyclone Murasu Delays Winter Onset in West Bengal, Relief Expected Before Kali Puja
Bengal CM calls emergency meeting with BDOs over 125-day rural job scheme after complaints
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has convened an emergency review meeting with block development officers (BDOs) from across the state to assess the progress of the 125-day rural employment scheme, amid complaints of sluggish implementation at the district and panchayat levels. According to state secretariat sources, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) had been receiving several complaints about administrative laxity in implementing the scheme, prompting Adhikari to seek a detailed assessment directly from the officials responsible for its execution at the grassroots level. The meeting will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday at the headquarters of the West Bengal Panchayat Affairs and Rural Development Department in Salt Lake, on the northern outskirts of Kolkata. Besides the Chief Minister, state Panchayat Affairs and Rural Development Minister Dilip Ghosh and Minister of State Santanu Pramanik will also attend the meeting, the sources said. During the meeting, Adhikari is expected to seek block-wise and district-wise details of projects undertaken under the rural employment scheme. He will also seek explanations from BDOs over the slow pace of implementation in certain blocks and the reasons behind the reported administrative shortcomings. The review follows a meeting convened by the Chief Minister last week with departmental secretaries, principal secretaries and additional chief secretaries to assess the implementation of the scheme. The issue of delays and inadequate progress in several blocks had figured prominently during that discussion. Following that meeting, the Chief Minister decided to interact directly with the BDOs to obtain first-hand information about the ground situation. He has also made it clear to the senior bureaucrats heading various departments that any laxity in implementing the rural employment scheme will not be tolerated, a state secretariat insider said. Following the change of government in West Bengal after the Assembly elections earlier this year, the state was brought under the Centre's Viksit BharatGuarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VG-RAM-G scheme. The new arrangement provides for 125 days of guaranteed rural employment annually, compared with the earlier provision of 100 days. The scheme came into effect in the state on July 1, 2026. However, complaints of delays and inadequate implementation have continued to reach the CMO. Despite the new arrangement coming into effect, there have been reports of shortcomings in its execution. The Chief Minister has, therefore, decided to intervene personally and review the progress, the sources added.
Cyclone Murasu delays winter in Bengal, relief expected before Kali Puja
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The indirect impact of Cyclone Murasu has delayed the onset of winter in West Bengal, with temperatures remaining above normal across the state, the meteorological department said on Tuesday. However, weather conditions are expected to improve from Thursday (November 5), with temperatures likely to dip ahead of Kali Puja on November 8, bringing the much-awaited winter chill to the state. According to the weather department, scattered rainfall is likely in several parts of Bengal on Tuesday under the influence of Cyclone Murasu, which made landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast. The cyclone has triggered forecasts of heavy rainfall, with a red alert issued for coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Tamil Nadu. Although Bengal is unlikely to experience any direct impact of the cyclone, its indirect effects are expected to influence weather conditions. The sky will remain partly cloudy across all districts on Tuesday, with isolated spells of light rain. In north Bengal, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar may receive light rainfall at one or two places. The remaining three districts of north Bengal are expected to remain dry. In south Bengal, isolated light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is likely in North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Jhargram, Bankura and Purulia. Other districts are likely to experience predominantly dry weather. The meteorological department has forecast mainly dry conditions across the state from Wednesday to Saturday, with the possibility of rainfall gradually diminishing. As cloud cover clears, night temperatures are expected to fall progressively, creating favourable conditions for the arrival of winter around Kali Puja. Meanwhile, Kolkata recorded a maximum temperature of 31.04 degrees Celsius on Monday, marginally above the normal level of 31 degrees. The minimum temperature stood at 25.02 degrees Celsius, which was 2.03 degrees above normal. The relative humidity in the city ranged between 67 and 95 per cent, indicating continued moisture in the atmosphere.
West Bengal board proposes shifting 2027 Madhyamik exams from February to March
The West Bengal Board of Secondary Education has proposed a change in the 2027 Madhyamik examination schedule. They suggest rescheduling the exams from February 15 to 25 to March 2 to 16. This change is due to the deployment of teachers for the upcoming Census exercise. The Census will take place from January 25 to February 28 next year.
Dilip Ghosh takes 'Sonia' jibe at Mamata for joining INDIA bloc rally against SIR
Dilip Ghosh has publicly lambasted Mamata Banerjee for her involvement in the INDIA bloc rally concerning changes to the electoral roll. He argues her party's diminishing political clout is prompting her to seek validation through an alliance with Congress. Ghosh highlighted her past victories, labeling her claims regarding electoral integrity as hypocritical, and pointed out the positive impact of removing fraudulent voters in fostering fair elections in West Bengal.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The Kolkata Police, probing an alleged multi-crore fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to festival tours organised around the UNESCO-tagged celebration, may summon the wife and daughter of arrested former West Bengal Minister Indranil Sen for a second round of questioning. Sens wife, Madhuchhanda Sen, and daughter, Averi Sen, have already been questioned once each at the city police headquarters in Lalbazar, Central Kolkata. However, police sources said their initial statements failed to answer several questions satisfactorily, prompting investigators to consider questioning both again. A police source said, however, the reasons for seeking further clarification from Madhuchhanda and Averi were different. The statements made by the former minister and his wife regarding their respective roles in Mass Art, the entity through which the fake passes were allegedly sold, have been completely contradictory. While the former minister claimed that he had no role in the day-to-day operations of Mass Art, his wife maintained that although the entity was officially registered in her name, she had no decision-making authority and that all major decisions were taken by her husband, the police source said. However, according to the police source, both Sen and his wife have consistently named one individual, Dhurbojyoti Basu, as the person responsible for handling the operational activities of Mass Art. Investigators are now seeking greater clarity on the respective roles played by the former minister, his wife and Basu in the functioning of the entity. This has prompted them to consider another round of questioning of Madhuchhanda Sen to reconcile the contradictory statements and establish who exercised actual control over its operations. The proposed second round of interrogation of Averi Sen, meanwhile, is linked to financial transactions involving two other entities, 'iScape' and 'Mayra', which were reportedly controlled by her. Another city police source said the investigation had revealed frequent transfers of funds to the bank accounts of these two entities. However, during her first round of questioning at Lalbazar on November 2, Averi allegedly failed to provide satisfactory explanations for the transactions or establish the reasons behind the repeated transfer of funds. Investigators are, therefore, seeking further clarification from her regarding the financial transactions and the nature of the two entities' involvement, the source added. A singer-turned-politician, Indranil Sen, had served as West Bengal Tourism Minister and Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs. He is currently in police custody and is scheduled to be produced before a city court again on November 10. Both the Kolkata Police and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are conducting parallel investigations into the alleged multi-crore fake Durga Puja pass scam involving festival tours organised around the UNESCO-tagged celebration. The financial transactions and the alleged roles of individuals associated with Mass Art are among the aspects under scrutiny.
West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh criticises Mamata Banerjee
The News Mill
Your party formed, headed by foreigner: BJP T'gana chief to Rahul over 'foreign help' remark
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Nov 3 (IANS) BJP Telangana President Ramchandar Rao on Tuesday hit back at Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, over his social media post alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives foreign financial support and backing. Rao questioned Gandhi's own alleged links with foreign entities and accused him of making baseless allegations against the BJP. Speaking to IANS, Rao said Gandhi should remember that his party was founded by a foreigner and alleged that it is now almost being led by a foreigner. Rahul Gandhi has tweeted on X that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is receiving foreign financial support and backing. He must first remember that his party was formed by a foreigner and is now almost headed by a foreigner, Rao said. He further accused Gandhi of supporting foreign countries, including Bangladesh and Nepal, and alleged that he receives backing from US-based investor George Soros. You take examples from countries like Bangladesh and Nepal and receive support from a foreigner like George Soros. You speak against India during your visits to Europe and America, he said. Rao also accused the Congress leader of questioning India's position on Pakistan following surgical strikes and signing agreements with China. He questioned why Gandhi was accusing the BJP of receiving foreign support while allegedly having foreign backing himself. You speak against India and support foreign countries like Pakistan when surgical strikes take place. You signed a pact with a country like China. You yourself are half foreign. Then why are you alleging that the BJP is receiving foreign support? In fact, you are the one receiving foreign support. Such statements reflect intellectual hollowness, Rao told IANS. Meanwhile, West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh also criticised Gandhi over his remarks, alleging that the Congress leader was attempting to create unrest in the country with the support of foreign money and forces. Creating unrest in the country with foreign money, foreign forces and foreign inspiration, opposing the government and government institutions, and tarnishing the country's image has become Rahul Gandhi's tradition. He is moving in the same direction, Ghosh said. Earlier on Monday, Gandhi had accused Prime Minister Modi of receiving foreign help to become and remain in power. He also alleged that India's financial system was controlled and supported by foreign entities and claimed that foreign social media platforms acked the Prime Minister.
West Bengal CM concerned over five Bankura trekkers missing in Uttarakhand
The News Mill
Health dept deploys emergency teams for Kali Puja
HC: Not for us to dictate how KMC wards will be altered
Crowd-control steps at pujas in Barasat
Maidan cleanup volunteer tracks down owner of lost ID cards
Kolkatas Pavement Doctor dies at Norfolk home
Judges hearing appeals related to electoral rolls in West Bengal are expected to utilize digital signatures shortly. This change aims to resolve a prolonged standoff that prevented the processing of appeals. Retired Calcutta High Court judge Indrajit Chatterjee has resumed his work on appeals in Murshidabad. The Election Commission of India is considering relocating some tribunals closer to Kolkata.
Arnab-Murasu first double cyclone to hit Bengal-Andhra stretch in less than 7 days
SRFTI students union slams 14 show-cause, 6 rustication notices
Jadavpur University Debars Staffer Amid Sexual Harassment Probe
Senior mechanical engineer Vivek Khare takes charge as new GM of Northeast Frontier Railway
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 2 (IANS) Senior Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineering (IRSME) officer Vivek Khare, a 1989-batch officer, has assumed charge as the new General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), succeeding Chetan Kumar Shrivastava, officials said on Monday. As the General Manager, Khare will serve as the overall executive head of Northeast Frontier Railway, one of the largest and most challenging of the 18 geographical zones of Indian Railways across the country. The NFR spreads over 10 states and 36 Lok Sabha constituencies, including Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Sikkim and seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of North Bihar. NFRs Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said that with over three decades of experience in railway operations, maintenance, efficiency improvement and modernisation spreading over different states and zones of the country, Khares expertise is expected to be immensely beneficial for Northeast Frontier Railway. He handled major infrastructure projects in India and Bangladesh during his deputation to RITES between 2000 and 2005 as Deputy General Manager and Additional General Manager. Before joining as the General Manager of NFR, Khare was posted as the Principal Chief Mechanical Engineer of the Modern Coach Factory, Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh. Earlier, Khare also briefly served in the additional charge as General Manager of the Modern Coach Factory (MCF), Rae Bareli, during March 2026. The new General Manager of NFR is well known for his technical expertise and managerial excellence across multiple domains of Indian Railways. He joined the Indian Railways service on March 3, 1991, in South Central Railway and worked at Secunderabad and Vijayawada. Khare also worked at the Lallaguda Workshop, South Central Railway and Tughlakabad Diesel Shed of Northern Railway. According to NFR CPRO, Khare also played a crucial role in many research initiatives, design standardisation, and technological improvements of important railway systems as the Director at the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) in Lucknow till 2013. His vast experience, technical expertise in quality enhancement and adoption of cutting-edge technologies and visionary leadership are expected to further accelerate the ongoing progress of Northeast Frontier Railway towards fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of railway passengers, freight customers and all stakeholders in the region, CPRO Sharma said.
KMC show-causes LBS for remarks against min, comm, Kartik Maharaj
Green body calls for stricter curbs
