Repo rate hike may raise costs, but real estate demand to stay resilient
Real estate companies in West Bengal on Wednesday said the RBI's 25-basis point repo rate hike could increase borrowing costs for homebuyers and developers, but maintained that the rise is unlikely to impact demand in the long term. The Reserve Bank of India raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 5.50 per cent on Wednesday, its first increase in nearly four years. The RBI has increased the repo rate after three years As a result, interest rates of banks and financial institutions on housing and construction loans will increase. This will have some adverse impact on real estate, CREDAI West Bengal president Sushil Mohta said. Primarc Projects MD Siddharth Pansari said the hike may make home loans marginally more expensive, but is unlikely to have a major impact on genuine homebuyers. In Kolkata, people are buying homes with a long-term view, and their decisions are increasingly driven by the right location, better quality and the lifestyle a home offers. There m
Fake Doctor Arrested at Delhi Airport in Connection with Childs Death in West Bengal
A fake doctor linked to a childs death in West Bengal was arrested at Delhi Airport after fleeing to Dubai. Fake Doctor Arrested at Delhi Airport in Connection with Childs Death in West Bengal
Centre extends West Bengal DGP Siddh Nath Gupta's tenure by 6 months
West Bengal DGP Siddh Nath Gupta received a six-month extension in service approved by the Cabinet. He was originally set to retire on October 31 after previous extensions. The Appointments Committee made this decision based on public interest reasons. Gupta, a 1992-batch IPS officer, was appointed police chief by the Election Commission earlier this year. This extension relaxes rules governing retirement benefits for All India Services.
'They will improve' after Uruguay thrashing: AIFF boss
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey and West Bengal Minister Indranil Khan offered their perspectives on the Indian football team's 6-1 defeat against Uruguay. Chaubey highlighted the team's strong start and confidence, suggesting rain disrupted momentum, and stressed the importance of playing top-level opposition. Khan called the match a landmark moment for Indian football exposure but also criticised political interference in West Bengal's football ecosystem.
West Bengal poll office says eligible deleted voters can apply through Form 6 to restore name in rolls
West Bengal DGP Siddh Nath Gupta Receives Six-Month Extension in Tenure
The Indian government extends Siddh Nath Guptas tenure as West Bengal DGP for six months, marking his second service extension. West Bengal DGP Siddh Nath Gupta Receives Six-Month Extension in Tenure
Weather today October 7: Delhi, Haryana receive thunderstorms warning; check latest IMD update
Weather today October 7: India Meteorological Department has issued thunderstorm and lightning warnings for several states today, October 7. Delhi-NCR stays partly cloudy with temperatures between 22C and 34C. Haryana, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal are all on alert for thunderstorms, while Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand could see rain turning into snowfall. Rajasthan is the only state with no warning, staying completely dry today.
IMD weather alert: Rain, thunderstorms likely in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern UP and West Bengal
Several parts of the country are likely to see unsettled weather on Wednesday, October 7, with thunderstorms, strong winds and rain expected in multiple states. Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh may see thunderstorms, while...
Rigorous verifications lead to identification of Bangladeshis in Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 6:Months-long verification drive by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, targeting migrant workers at orchards, brick kilns and construction sites, has led to the identification of Bangladeshi nationals living and working in Kashmir, officials said. The exercise, which has been underway for nearly seven months, involved calling migrant workers to police stations and verifying their identities and documents, including Aadhaar cards. A senior J&K Police officer said discrepancies found during the registration process prompted further scrutiny of some workers. The workers were asked to produce their Aadhaar cards during a registration exercise and discrepancies in the information provided by them led to further verification, the officer said. The official said fresh data was being collected on migrant workers across Kashmir following intelligence inputs regarding the presence of foreign nationals. Following their initial identification, the suspected foreign nationals were placed in a designated camp while authorities began the process of establishing their nationality. The details of these nationals were shared with authorities in Bangladesh. Once their nationality was confirmed, we initiated the process to deport them under provisions of the Foreigners Act, the officer said. The development comes a day after the Jammu and Kashmir administration deported the first batch of 150 Bangladeshi nationals from the Union Territory. The group was flown from Srinagar to Bagdogra in West Bengal in an Indian Air Force aircraft and subsequently handed over to the Border Security Force for further movement towards the international border. Another batch of 150 Bangladeshi nationals is scheduled to be deported on October 7, officials said. According to the Police, around 600 Bangladeshi nationals are currently believed to be living in Jammu and Kashmir, with the majority residing in Kashmir and a smaller number in the Jammu region. A majority of them are putting up illegally in Kashmir and a very small number in Jammu. We have flown the first batch of 150 to Bagdogra from Srinagar. We will be flying another batch tomorrow, the officer said. The deportation process is being carried out in coordination with the central agencies and authorities in Bangladesh. The BSF is expected to escort the deportees to designated transit points in West Bengal before they are taken across the international border. The action against Bangladeshi nationals comes amid a separate eviction drive targeting Rohingya settlements in Jammu. Landlords have been served notices to clear plots occupied by Rohingya settlements, following which settlements in areas including Narwal, Karyani Talab and Sunjawan have been evicted, leaving several families displaced. The developments also come months after a Centre-appointed High-Level Committee on Demographic Changes, headed by retired Justice Prakash Prabhakar Navalkar, began examining demographic changes and alleged illegal immigration in Jammu and Kashmir. The committee was constituted after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a High-powered Demography Mission during his Independence Day address last year. The committee subsequently met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in July before undertaking a field visit to Jammu and Kashmir. It toured parts of the Jammu region from August 10 to 12 and also visited the Rohingya settlement at Karyani Talab in Narwal.
PM Modi to address nation today; BJP to hold 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra' across Gujarat
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 7 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation virtually on Wednesday as Gujarat unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organises a 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra' across all districts and metropolitan areas to mark his completion of 25 years in public service. PM Modi will address the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha' around 9 a.m. and lead a collective pledge to create 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047'. The Prime Minister's address will be broadcast live from the yatra's departure points across the state. The programme is part of the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan', being organised to mark 25 years of his public service, first as the Gujarat Chief Minister and subsequently as the country's Prime Minister. Before PM Modi's address, BJP National President Nitin Nabin will also address the gathering. Following the Prime Minister's address, local leaders will light the 'Seva Jyot', after which the 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra' will begin from designated locations in each district and metropolitan area. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will participate in the Ahmedabad programme at Pujya Pramukh Swami Marg-Riverfront Road near Riverfront House. State BJP President Jagdish Vishwakarma will attend the programme at the Arts and Commerce College on New Civil Hospital Road in Sabarkantha district. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi will participate in the programme at Shri Vardayini Mataji Temple in Rupal village of Gandhinagar district. State BJP General Secretaries Aniruddh Dave, Prashant Korat, Ajay Brahmbhatt and Hitendrasinh Chouhan will attend programmes in Rajkot, Surat, Ahmedabad and Vadodara respectively. State Ministers, BJP office-bearers, MPs, MLAs, party leaders, workers and local residents are also expected to participate at designated locations. The nationwide 'Seva Sankalp Yatra', which began on September 17, will also conclude on Wednesday at Vadnagar in Gujarat and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. The two locations are associated with PM Modi's birthplace and political career. In Vadnagar, the concluding programme will include a water offering at the historic Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple. Chief Minister Patel, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Deputy Chief Minister Sanghavi, State BJP President Vishwakarma and Yatra In-charge V.D. Sharma are scheduled to attend.
80% vote in West Bengal bypolls amid rigging, intimidation charges
Bypolls across Nandigram and Rejinagar saw an 80% turnout despite allegations of rigging and voter intimidation. In Tamil Nadu, turnout dipped compared to previous elections, with results showing 86% and 80% participation. Assam's Nagaon Lok Sabha constituency recorded 76% turnout during the bypolls, while Puducherry's Thattanchavady seat had a turnout of 78% by 5pm. Various candidates and parties reported incidents of interference and blocked agents during the polling process.
Kolkata High Court Mandates Licensing for Animal Sales in West Bengal
The Kolkata High Court has ruled that animal sales in West Bengal require proper licensing, ensuring compliance with wildlife protection laws. Kolkata High Court Mandates Licensing for Animal Sales in West Bengal
In Rejinagar, police detain last times winner hours after by-election starts
Ease of voting becomes a divide between 2 Nandigram blocks
Kolkata gets 4th CNG station for buses
Hand towels, bed sheets, blankets among most stolen items from Eastern Rly AC coaches
Cancer care in state set for infrastructure boost with 750 more beds in 2 years
City students chart their future at career meet
State sub-assistant engineer arrested for Rs 20,000 bribe
Tensions Rise in West Bengal as Rahul Gandhis Protest Faces Criticism
Tensions escalate in Kolkata as Tapas Roy criticizes Rahul Gandhis protest, questioning his credibility against PM Modi. Tensions Rise in West Bengal as Rahul Gandhis Protest Faces Criticism
Graffiti row erupts at SRFTI after police advisory
KP starts final round of pre-puja checks with citys Christmas capital
Court clears hurdle for Sealdah Durga Puja
Evening rain sends shoppers scurrying for cover, leaves puja organisers worried
Red Road shut to traffic till Oct 11 morning
Go for a lottery: HC blasts New Town blocs over puja rivalry
Bail for ex-OSD to former mayor, top officials transferred in KMC rejig
HC orders Raiganj ex-BDO to surrender
Bengal bypolls: 79 pc turnout in Nandigram, Rejinagar amid violence, intimidation claims
In the West Bengal Assembly bypolls, a robust turnout of nearly 79 percent was recorded, despite disturbing reports of violence and intimidation. Opposition parties alleged that their agents faced eviction from voting booths, heightening tensions. The arrest of AJUP chief Humayun Kabir during a confrontation sparked further unrest. While the BJP defended the voting process, Congress accused local police of bias.
Bypolls held in five Assembly seats, one Lok Sabha constituency
Highest voter turnout of 86% in Madurantakam seat; West Bengal CEO got 97 official complaints on polling day; Congress seeks cancellation of W.B. bypolls due to alleged voter intimidation, booth capturing
Abhishek security scale-down: What was the urgency, asks HC
Rajya Sabha ethics panel lens on Ananta Maharaj over Netaji remarks
Khardah BJP extortion row, late-night bomb attack leave 5 people injured
Warehouse project to come up in Dankuni
BJP take control of Malda zilla parishad with TMC support
Bengal to adopt best practices for highway projects: Minister
Voter turnout in the Nandigram and Rejinagar bypolls stood at 80.87 per cent and 80.07 per cent, respectively
PIB debunks claims on MHA reaching out to Rahul, Priyanka for ending stir
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS) The Press Information Bureau (PIB) on Tuesday issued a Fact Check and declared as misleading some social media posts claiming that officials of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reached out to Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and MP Priyanka Gandhi in a bid to end the impasse outside Nirvachan Sadan. Do not fall for misleading claims or unverified information. Rely only on verified sources, said the PIB, the Central governments nodal information dissemination agency controlled by the Information and Broadcasting Ministry. The Fact Check issued by the PIB was accompanied by screenshots of social media posts by a journalist and a news channels website. The false claims were made on social media in relation to the Opposition MPs dramatic protest and sit-in near the office of the Election Commission of India and Rahul Gandhi-led lawmakers failed attempt to enter Nirvachan Sadan to meet Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi led the 300 Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Opposition MPs, including those from the BJD, in a march from Parliament towards the Nirvachan Sadan - a distance of about one kilometre. We wanted to meet the CEC and the Election Commissioners, but we were stopped and prevented from going there, Gandhi told reporters about 50 yards from the Commissions office. After being stopped by security personnel from marching towards Nirvachan Sadan, Rahul Gandhi and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi and other leaders sat on a dharna inside the Akashvani Bhavan, close to the ECI office, The protest in the high security zone was criticised by BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad, who asked whether the opposition parties were trying to create anarchy. Speaking to IANS, Prasad said, Sitting in Delhi, they have surrounded a sensitive area here, and they are saying that (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar is under the clutches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and (Home Minister) Amit Shah. This is shameful. I condemn this. Prasad also criticised Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge for his reported demand to cancel elections and conduct them again using ballot papers. He had said that all elections should be cancelled and elections should be held again through ballot papers. This is their intention, and this is what they want. They cannot win in honest elections. Now, they want to capture the booths. They want to win elections under pressure. They want to stop Dalits and the poor from casting their votes. Congress has been winning like this, whether it was in Bihar, West Bengal or any other state, he said.
State-wise school holidays in October due to Navaratri, Durga Puja 2026
The festive season is approaching and to celebrate schools will be closed state-wise for students. For the Durga Puja celebration has the schools in the eastern part of India- West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Bihar have announced holidays for educational institutions- schools, colleges. The West Bengal government has already announced school holiday on the occasion of Durga Puja.
West Bengal Ration Card Update: 2 Crore Families to Get Subsidised Sugar, Flour and Suji
With food prices putting pressure on household budgets, the West Bengal government has announced a major subsidy initiative aimed at providing essential food items at lower prices to eligible families. Under the plan, around 2 crore families are expected to receive subsidised sugar, wheat flour and...
Weather Tomorrow: On October 7, expect partly cloudy skies over Delhi-NCR, with temperatures hovering between 22C and 34C. Thunderstorms paired with lightning are anticipated in Haryana, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, while West Bengal faces similar weather. Conversely, Rajasthan will remain dry without any IMD warnings. In the hills, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand might see rain or even snowfall, accompanied by thunderstorms.
Huge turnout in Assam, TN, Bengal, Puducherry bypolls
By-elections across several Indian states, including Assam, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and West Bengal, concluded peacefully with high voter turnouts. The Nagaon Lok Sabha seat in Assam recorded 76% polling, while Tamil Nadu's Madurantakam and Dharapuram Assembly Constituencies saw 83.86% and 78.53% respectively. Puducherry's Thattanchavady registered 78.83%, and West Bengal's Nandigram and Rejinagar constituencies had nearly 79% turnout.
J&K CM Omar Abdullah questions recent action by Centre against Rohingyas
Digital Desk | Srinagar, Oct 6 (IANS) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday questioned the recent administrative action against Rohingyas, asserting that the latter were being targeted for no reason. Talking to reporters here, Omar Abdullah said, People who have come from Bangladesh without permission, it is a different matter for them. But the Rohingyas, who are being targeted for no reason, when they were deported from their country, we gave them a place here. We allowed them (Rohingyas) to live here until their country's situation improves. I find it strange to take action against them suddenly. But we do not have it in our hands. This is the Government of India, he added. It must be recalled that 250 Bangladesh nationals found illegally staying in Jammu and Kashmir were taken in an IAF flight to West Bengal on Monday to be deported to Bangladesh. On the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), the Chief Minister said the Jammu and Kashmir government would not implement it. Such a legislation (UCC) should be debated and enacted by the Parliament. If you have the courage, bring a law in the Parliament. Debate it in the Parliament. See if it passes in Parliament or not, he added. The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is a proposal to create a single set of personal laws that apply equally to all citizens, regardless of their religion. UCC would replace separate religion-based rules for marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, and succession. At present, different religious communities currently follow their own distinct personal laws based on scriptures and customs. UCC is mentioned in Article 44 of the Indian Constitution as a Directive Principle of State Policy, meaning it guides state policy but is not legally enforceable by courts. Supporters of UCC say it promotes gender justice, equality before the law, secularism, and national integration by removing discriminatory traditions. Critics raise concerns about protecting cultural diversity, minority rights, and freedom of religion.
Bengal bypolls: Candidate from Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool faction seeks re-polling in Rejinagar
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 6 (IANS) Rabiul Alam Chowdhury, the candidate from Mamata Banerjee-led Mamata All India Trinamool Congress, on Tuesday wrote a letter to the Election Commission of India (ECI) seeking cancellation of the ongoing bypolls at Rejinagar Assembly constituency in West Bengal's Murshidabad district and had also demanded repolling there. Chowdhury is the second candidate for the Rejinagar seat to demand repolling there. Earlier in the day, the Congress candidate for the Rejinagar bypolls, Mohammad Abdullahil Kafi, had also raised the same demand and even staged sit-in-demonstration in front of the Rejinagar Police Station in support of his demand. However, the BJP candidate from Rejinagar, Shankharav Sarkar denied allegations of electoral malpractices there on Tuesday. The voting at Rejinagar is taking place in a festive mood. People were able to vote freely and peacefully after a long time, standing in line. We (BJP) were ahead in the campaign and will be ahead in the counting as well. The Opposition will say a lot. But the reality is different, Sarkar said. Meanwhile, the average polling percentage at Rejinagar and Nandigram Assembly constituencies in East Midnapore district had continue to be quite high at 70.54 per cent till 3 p.m., which, according to the sources from the office of the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) had been quite high for bypolls. Till 3 p.m. the polling percentage at Rejinagar stood at 69.29 per cent, while at Nandigram the figure was even higher at 71.79 per cent. Considering that the polling will be till 6 p.m., It can be comfortably said that the final average polling percentage will be well above 80 per cent, a CEO's office source said. He also added that because of the pleasant weather throughout the day, the voter's enthusiasm was high even between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., the period which the voters generally avoid because of heat. Meanwhile, after receiving a detailed report from the Murshidabad district administration regarding the arrest of Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) founder-cum-legislator, Humayun Kabir, earlier on Tuesday, the CEO's office had forwarded the report to the ECI's headquarters in New Delhi. It is learnt that in the report it had been said that Kabir was arrested for violating election rules.
Union Minister Rammohan Naidu invites West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari to attend Vijayawada Utsav
The utsav being organised under the theme, One City One Celebration, from October 11 to 20 showcases Vijayawadas spiritual and cultural heritage, the Union Minister says
Union Minister Rammohan Naidu invites West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari to attend Vijayawada Utsav
The utsav being organised under the theme, One City One Celebration, from October 11 to 20 showcases Vijayawadas spiritual and cultural heritage, the Union Minister says
Rajasthan CM urges youth to adopt Yoga, announces TOPS for Olympics
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Oct 6 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Tuesday urged people, especially the youth, to make Yoga a part of their daily lives, stay away from substance abuse and contribute towards building a Developed India and a Developed Rajasthan. Addressing the closing ceremony of the 51st Sub-Junior and Junior National Yogasana Sports Championship at Alankar PG College in Jaipur, Sharma described Yoga as an invaluable heritage of Indias ancient culture and said it has taught the world the art of living a healthy, disciplined and balanced life. The Chief Minister said Yoga helps improve concentration, strengthens decision-making abilities and promotes positivity. At a time when changing lifestyles and health challenges are affecting people across the world, Yoga remains a simple, accessible and effective means of maintaining a healthy mind and body, he said. Sharma also highlighted the global spread of Yoga, saying that the efforts and diplomacy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi contributed to the United Nations declaring June 21 as the International Day of Yoga. He said Yoga, meditation and pranayama have today become part of the daily routine of millions of people across the world. The Chief Minister said the youth are the countrys future and their energy will play a crucial role in achieving the goal of Developed India 2047. He said the state government is establishing Atal Gyan Kendras in villages, equipped with facilities such as online classes and e-libraries. Sports grounds are also being developed in every panchayat. Sharma said the states double-engine government has so far provided appointments to 1.93 lakh posts, while recruitment for another 1.18 lakh posts is under way. A recruitment calendar for 1.25 lakh posts has also been released. He said employment has been provided to 5 lakh youths in the private sector. A language centre has also been launched in Jaipur to teach the languages of five countries to young people aspiring to work abroad. Sharma alleged that paper leaks had occurred frequently during the previous governments tenure but claimed that not a single paper leak had taken place under the present government. He urged candidates to work hard for competitive examinations and assured them that the government would not allow their aspirations to be jeopardised. Highlighting the governments focus on sports, Sharma said Rajasthan has released the Rajasthan Youth Policy-2025 and is taking rapid steps to strengthen sports infrastructure and provide greater opportunities to young athletes. The Chief Minister announced that the Rajasthan TOPS scheme has been implemented to prepare athletes from the state for the Olympic Games. He said 17 new Khelo India Centres are being established in Rajasthan, while grants amounting to Rs 40.12 crore have been sanctioned for 1,786 athletes. Sharma said the government aims to establish Rajasthan as a leading state in sports at both the national and international levels. During the ceremony, he honoured the winners of the National Yogasana Championship. West Bengal secured first place, Haryana finished second, and Maharashtra secured third place, with trophies presented to the respective teams. The Rajasthan team also presented a musical Yogasana performance during the event. MP Rao Rajendra Singh, Alankar PG College Chairman Lalchand Kataria, Padma Shri awardee Gulabo Sapera, Asian Yoga Federation President Ashok Kumar Agarwal, elected representatives, delegates from various yoga federations and a large number of participants from across the country attended the ceremony.
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], October 6: Koninika Bhattacharjee has launched Windward Law Office, a specialist transactional law office focused on Private Equity & Venture Capital, Mergers & Acquisitions, Capital Markets and Investment Funds.
Strong Turnout In Assam, West Bengal Bypolls; Voting Largely Peaceful
Nagaon records 70.25% polling, while Nandigram and Rejinagar register 71.79% and 69.29%
Young voices lead Sundarbans call to save tigers
Bengal police arrest MLA Humayun Kabir, drag him by shirt
West Bengal's bypolls in Rejinagar and Nandigram were marked by significant tension, including the arrest of AJUP chief Humayun Kabir, allegations of voter intimidation, and polling irregularities. The incidents highlighted the charged political atmosphere in these key constituencies, with competing claims from various parties amidst sustained voter participation.
Congress Candidate Protests for Re-Election in West Bengals Rejinagar Constituency
Congress candidate Mohammad Abdullahil Kafi demands re-election in Rejinagar, alleging voter suppression by BJP supporters. Congress Candidate Protests for Re-Election in West Bengals Rejinagar Constituency
Suvendu Adhikari Predicts Larger Victory Margin for BJP in Nandigram By-Election
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari anticipates a bigger victory margin for BJP candidate in Nandigram by-election than his own in 2016. Suvendu Adhikari Predicts Larger Victory Margin for BJP in Nandigram By-Election
West Bengal to retain name as BJP govt moves to settle debate
Party plans bill to keep
West Bengal Set to Change Name to Paschim Bang in Upcoming Bill
The West Bengal government plans to introduce a bill to rename the state Paschim Bang, eliminating previous names like West Bengal. West Bengal Set to Change Name to Paschim Bang in Upcoming Bill
West Bengal Bypolls: Nandigram records 60.32% turnout, Rejinagar at 56.43% till 1 PM
Polling in West Bengals Nandigram and Rejinagar assembly bypolls recorded 58.37% turnout till 1 pm, with voting largely peaceful amid heavy security. Nandigram polled 60.32%, while Rejinagar recorded 56.43%. The contests feature multiple rival factions and carry significant political weight following the 2026 assembly elections.
Violence Erupts Between BJP Factions in West Bengal Over Extortion Claims
Two BJP leaders arrested in Kolkata after violent clashes over alleged extortion in the fish farming sector. Violence Erupts Between BJP Factions in West Bengal Over Extortion Claims
Bengal to get rain for five more days as monsoon retreats, light showers likely during Puja
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 6 (IANS) Rain is likely to continue across West Bengal for the next five days as the southwest monsoon withdrawal remains underway, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Kolkata said on Tuesday. The weather office, however, ruled out the possibility of widespread heavy rainfall during this period. Light to moderate rain is expected at several places, with isolated heavy showers likely in parts of north Bengal. Eastern Regional Director of the RMC Habibur Rahman Biswas said a low-pressure area extending from Uttar Pradesh to Bangladesh in the lower levels of the atmosphere was influencing the weather over the state. A cyclonic circulation over Bihar is also contributing to the rainfall activity. Under its influence, light to moderate rain is likely in all districts of north Bengal, while heavy rain may occur at one or two places in Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts. The weather office has also warned of thundershowers in several areas. On Tuesday, partly cloudy skies and light to moderate rain were expected in the state. In south Bengal, districts including Murshidabad, Nadia, Birbhum, South 24 Parganas and North 24 Parganas may receive rain accompanied by thundershowers over the next few days. Several districts of south Bengal are likely to receive light to moderate rain with thundershowers until the weekend. Rainfall will also continue in north Bengal, with isolated heavy showers possible in one or two places. Kolkata is also likely to receive light to moderate rain on Tuesday. The city is expected to remain cloudy during the morning, with partly cloudy skies likely in the afternoon. The possibility of rain is expected to increase from Wednesday through Friday. The RMC said there was no forecast of heavy rain during Durga Puja, which begins on October 17. However, light to moderate rain may occur around Mahalaya on October 10. On Monday, Kolkata recorded a maximum temperature of 32.08 degrees Celsius, which was normal, while the minimum temperature was 26.06 degrees Celsius, 0.08 degrees above normal. Relative humidity ranged between 69 and 97 percent.
Nandigram bypoll peaceful so far, Suvendu Adhikari eyes 85% turnout
Suvendu Adhikari, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, reported peaceful polling in the Nandigram by-election. Around 50 percent of voters had participated by midday as he cast his vote. He anticipated a turnout exceeding 85 percent based on historical trends in the constituency. Adhikari mentioned he would continue to serve as the MLA for Bhabanipur while promising to remain a voter in Nandigram.
Bengal bypolls: Cong candidate stages sit-in, seeks repolling at Rejinagar
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 6 (IANS) Mohammad Abdullahil Kafi, the Congress candidate for bypolls in Rejinagar Assembly Constituency in Murshidabad district of West Bengal, accompanied by his associates, on Tuesday began a sit-in demonstration in front of the Rejinagar Police Station demanding total repolling in the constituency. Kafi alleged that BJP supporters were preventing voters from exercising their franchise at several booths, particularly targeting minority community voters. He also accused the police and central security forces of failing to intervene. The polling at Rejinagar has become a farcical exercise. So, our demand is its immediate cancellation and a total repolling in Rejinagar, Kafi told media persons. However, the BJPs state president in West Bengal and the partys Rajya Sabha member Samik Bhattacharya said the Congress candidate is raising such baseless allegations fearing his imminent landslide defeat. By-elections are underway in Rejinagar and Nandigram in East Midnapore district. BJP candidates will win from both the constituencies. Many people still cannot believe that BJP can win in minority-dominated areas. We are going to win by five times the margin of victory we won last time in Nandigram. Rejinagar is a minority-dominated area. We will win there too, Bhattacharya said. Meanwhile, after the first four hours of polling till 11 a.m., the average polling percentage at Nandigram and Rejinagar has been recorded at 41.33. While the percentage in Rejinagar till then is 38.71, the same had been higher at 43.95 in the case of Nandigram. Reports of sporadic tension have come from both the constituencies in the last two hours as well. The Congress candidate in Nandigram, Milan Pradhan, alleged that the BJP supporters started terrorising the voters in the constituency for the last two days and on Tuesday the ruling party activists crossed all limits. Everyone has the right to participate in elections. But there is no situation in Nandigram to exercise that democratic right. The pockets in Nandigram, which are known as anti-BJP pockets, are being specially targeted by the ruling party activists. We are updating the Election Commission of India of such instances, Pradhan said. A source in the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) office said the majority of the complaints received by them since Tuesday morning had been from Congress.
Bengal: Humayun Kabir Arrested in Rejinagar, Allegations of Bypoll Irregularities in Nandigram
West Bengal's bypolls began on a tense note on Tuesday, with a police confrontation leading to the arrest of AJUP chief and MLA Humayun Kabir in Rejinagar and allegations of voter intimidation and polling irregularities surfacing in Nandigram, putting the spotlight
West Bengal Bypolls: 41.33% Turnout In Nandigram, Rejinagar Till 11 AM
Nandigram records 43.95% polling, while Rejinagar sees 38.71%; voting largely peaceful despite a few incidents
'Violating Law: Humayun Kabir Detained After Verbal Altercation With Police | Bengal Bypoll
Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) chief Humayun Kabir was detained by West Bengal Police from his party office in Murshidabad as voting continued in the Rejinagar Assembly bypoll. Kabir, who had cast his vote earlier, accused police of interfering with polling at several booths and alleged that 64 people had been detained over the past two months. He also claimed police were hijacking the voting process. Rejinagar is among two constituencies voting in the bypolls, along with Nandigram. The contest comes months after the BJP formed the government in West Bengal. Kabirs son Golam Nabi Azad is contesting from Rejinagar on an AJUP ticket.
West Bengal Bypolls: AJUP Chief Humayun Kabir Arrested
Allegations Of Voter Intimidation And Poll Irregularities Surface In Rejinagar, Nandigram
WBPSC Clerkship Recruitment 2026 Notification Out - Apply Online for LDA/ LDC Posts
The Public Service Commission, West Bengal (WBPSC) has released the Clerkship Examination, 2024 notification under Advertisement No. 12/2024 on 6 October 2026. The examination will fill Lower Division Assistant / Lower Division Clerk posts and similar posts in the Secretariat, Directorates, District offices and regional offices (including Kolkata) of the Government of West Bengal.
Humayun Kabir detained for law violation during West Bengal Rejinagar bypoll
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BJP's Dinesh Arya to file nomination for RS seat in Uttarakhand today
Digital Desk | Dehradun, Oct 6 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rajya Sabha candidate Dinesh Arya will file his nomination for the Upper House election in Uttarakhand at the state Assembly here on Tuesday. According to the schedule, all BJP MLAs are expected to reach the Assembly by 10 a.m., following which Arya will submit his nomination papers at 11 a.m. for the Rajya Sabha election. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, along with senior BJP leaders and key office-bearers of the party, will be present during the nomination process. Arya's nomination is being viewed as an important show of the BJP's electoral strategy and organisational unity in the state. The presence of the party's legislators and senior leadership during the filing of the nomination is also expected to underline the BJP's coordinated approach towards the Rajya Sabha election. Earlier on Sunday, the BJP announced Arya as its candidate for the 2026 Rajya Sabha biennial election in Uttarakhand. The election in Uttarakhand has been necessitated by the completion of the term of sitting Rajya Sabha member Naresh Bansal. The Election Commission of India (ECI), on September 22, announced the schedule for biennial elections to 11 Rajya Sabha seats, along with a by-election for one seat from West Bengal, to be held on October 16. Of the 11 seats going to polls in the biennial elections, 10 are from Uttar Pradesh, and one is from Uttarakhand. The election in West Bengal is being held to fill a casual vacancy in the Upper House. As per the election schedule, the scrutiny of nomination papers will be conducted on October 7. Candidates will be able to withdraw their candidature until October 9. Polling for the Rajya Sabha seats will be held on October 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Counting of votes will begin at 5 p.m. on the same day. With Arya's nomination, the BJP is set to formally begin the electoral process for the Uttarakhand Rajya Sabha seat.
Bypoll elections: Voting begins in 5 seats across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu & Puducherry
Voting begins in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Puducherry bypolls
Polling began Tuesday for five Assembly and one Lok Sabha bypoll across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam and Puducherry, with counting scheduled for October 9
ECI not working under Constitution, says Akhilesh Yadav on INDIA bloc protest
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 6 (IANS) Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday alleged that the Election Commission of India (ECI) was not functioning impartially and was not working in accordance with the Constitution. Speaking to reporters ahead of the INDIA blocs protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Yadav said that complaints and objections regarding the Election Commission and its functioning were not new. This is not a new issue when it comes to the Election Commission. Complaints and objections regarding the Election Commission and the way it is functioning are not being raised for the first time. The Election Commission wants to believe that only those who are members of the Bharatiya Janata Party are Indian citizens. The Election Commission also seems to believe, as has been seen several times, that only those who are BJP members can vote, he said. Yadav alleged that the BJP had benefited from money and the misuse of forces during elections, while also accusing the poll body of failing to remain neutral. People used to say about the BJP that it works like an election machine. They did not win with the help of the ECI alone; they have a lot of money. You have seen how, with the help of forces, they looted booths in West Bengal. Not just Bengal, they looted booths in Uttar Pradesh. They looted the polls in Kundarki, Ambedkar Nagar and Ayodhya. So, the ECI is not unbiased. The ECI is not working under the Constitution, he said. He further questioned the alleged proximity between the BJP and the Election Commission and raised questions over the BJPs office in the national capital. Sometimes, I hear that in Delhi, the BJP has made a big office in the national capital. What was the need for that? They could have taken a floor in the ECI building and worked from there. What was the need for that? Tell us whether the ECI has worked on these problems or taken any action, Yadav said. On the proposal for One Nation, One Election, Yadav alleged that the BJP wanted to consolidate all electoral processes at one time to avoid scrutiny. Not One Nation, One Election; they want to do all the malfunctioning at one time so that they can rule for five years, and there is no need for any probe. That is why they are working on the theory of One Nation, One Election, he added. Meanwhile, Opposition INDIA bloc MPs on Tuesday will stage a protest march from Parliament to the ECI headquarters in New Delhi over allegations of vote theft linked to the SIR of electoral rolls. The protest comes amid a series of nationwide campaigns targeting CEC Gyanesh Kumar. The call for the protest was issued following a meeting of 19 Opposition parties on September 30.
Bengal bypolls: Voting in first two hours recorded at 19.47 pc
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 6 (IANS) The average polling percentage for the bypolls to Nandigram Assembly Constituency in East Midnapore district and the Rejinagar seat in Murshidabad district of West Bengal had been recorded at 19.47 In the case of Nandigram, the polling percentage till 9 a.m. has been recorded at 20.89. And, in Rejinagar, the polling percentage in the same period was 18.05. Political observers feel that the voting percentage in the first two hours has been impressive, considering that voters' enthusiasm for bypolls is generally lower than what is seen in general elections. Barring stray incidents reported in Nandigram and Rejinagar, the polling process has, so far, been peaceful in the first two hours. The office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, had sought a report from the Murshidabad district administration about the arrest of Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) founder and legislator, Humayun Kabir, accused of constantly threatening the police and even grabbing an on-duty police officer's collar. Kabirs son, Golam Nabi Azad, is the candidate for Rejinagar bypoll. Kabir is not the candidate. He is neither the polling agent of his son. So, he has no authority to move from one booth to the other and make provocative statements. He violated the rules since morning. So, he had been arrested, said a district police officer. The CPI(M) has alleged that its polling agents were not being allowed to enter some booths in the Dadpur area of Rejinagar. The Left has alleged that their agents were not being allowed to sit in booths 112, 113, 114, and 122. Mild tension was also reported from Nandigram after the Congress candidate there, Milan Pradhan, alleged that his polling agents were forcefully driven out of the polling booths by the BJP supporters, with the Central forces personnel remaining mute spectators. However, the BJP candidate from Nandigram, Hasirani Rath, denied the allegations. In Nandigram, the opposition parties are suffering from a survival crisis, and so they are making false allegations, she said. Congress has already lodged a complaint on this count with the office of the CEO, West Bengal. Police have also arrested Nandigram Block-1 Congress president, Sheikh Asraful Tulla. Congress alleged that he was unnecessarily detained during the voting. There is no such thing as democracy in the area now. The concerned authorities are being informed about this incident, said a district Congress leader.
Humayun Kabir Arrested During Reginagar By-Election for Threatening Police
Humayun Kabir was arrested during the Reginagar by-election for threatening police and disrupting the voting process in West Bengal. Humayun Kabir Arrested During Reginagar By-Election for Threatening Police
Indian states seek extra power to avoid outages as nighttime supply tightens, officials say
NEW DELHI, Oct 6 (Reuters) Several Indian states are seeking additional power allocations from the federal government to avoid outages as weak hydropower output and maintenance at some plants have reduced electricity supply during the night, two federal government officials said. Rajasthan and Gujarat, among Indias leading renewable-energy states, have sought additional supplies, along with other states including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Union Territory Delhi, the officials said. The federal government typically has access to about 14 to 15 gigawatts of electricity from coal and hydropower plants that it can allocate to
Bengal Minister says BJP margin will increase in Nandigram, hopes for change in Rejinagar
Digital Desk | Nandigram, Oct 6 (IANS) As voting for the by-elections in West Bengal kicked off on Tuesday, Minister Dilip Ghosh expressed confidence that the BJP's winning margin would increase in Nandigram, while adding that Rejinagar could witness a change for the first time. Speaking to reporters, Ghosh said, Regarding the by-election, Nandigram is a seat already won by the BJP, and our margin will increase there. For the first time, a change can happen in Rejinagar as well. He said the voting pattern in Bengal, where minority votes traditionally did not go to the BJP, was changing, as the public now wants to vote for development. The trend that was going on in Bengal, where minority votes didn't go to the BJP, is changing. Today, the development of the country and the state under the current government is benefiting the minority community as well. They have received security, their rights are protected, and they are also thinking about whom they should stand with. They want to go with development. They have seen corruption and oppression. Therefore, I feel votes will come towards the BJP and something new is going to happen, Ghosh said. Ghosh also reacted to the ongoing controversy surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and said the matter was before the Supreme Court. The matter is in the Supreme Court. Even earlier, regarding SIR, the Supreme Court had given a decision based on which the work has been carried out. But those who lose just need an excuse, so they are raising all these useless points, he said. The remarks came a day after Chief Justice of India Surya Kant clarified during a Supreme Court hearing that the court had not approved any modified version of Form 6, which is used for inclusion of names in electoral rolls. The court also sought records concerning the changes to the form. Ghosh further highlighted programmes being organised to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday and promote the government's achievements. Modi ji's birthday was on September 17, and for a month, from September to October, as part of the 'Sewa Sankalp Abhiyan', the Central and state governments are taking their achievements to the people. As party workers, we are organising various programmes to highlight his dream of a developed India by 2047 and take the public along with us, he said. Ghosh added that such programmes would continue in West Bengal until October 7 due to the commencement of Durga Puja, while programmes in other parts of the country would continue until October 17. Today, Narendra Modi is a world-renowned leader. There is no doubt about his leadership and vision. The country has benefited, and many nations across the world wish they had a leader like Modi ji, he said.
My agents being threatened; no response from ECI: Congress Nandigram candidate
Digital Desk | Nandigram, Oct 6 (IANS) As voting for the by-elections began in West Bengal's Nandigram on Tuesday, Congress candidate Milan Pradhan alleged that, even when everyone has the right to vote, hooligans are threatening his workers and supporters. Pradhan returned to campaigning after securing interim bail from the Calcutta High Court in connection with cases dating back to the 2007 Nandigram agitation. Speaking to IANS, Pradhan said, In this election, look, this is a by-election. In this by-election, every citizen has to vote. There is freedom. Since last night and the day before, hooliganism has been going on here. My agents are being picked up and taken away; they are threatening them, and they forcibly took away papers. What is this? This is not right. This is not a system of freedom, he added. We have filed a complaint with the Election Commission of India. However, we are not getting any response, Pradhan said. The Nandigram bypoll was necessitated after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, who had won both Nandigram and Bhabanipur in this year's Assembly elections, chose to retain Bhabanipur and vacated the Nandigram seat. The counting is scheduled for October 9. The BJP has fielded Hasirani Rath, mother of slain Adhikari aide Chandranath Rath, as its Nandigram candidate. Chandranath Rath was killed in Madhyamgram, North 24 Parganas, on May 6. Earlier on Monday, the ECI ordered the immediate replacement of the inspector-in-charge (IC) of Nandigram Police Station in East Midnapore district. Ajay Kumar Mishra, who was serving as the IC of Nandigram Police Station, has been replaced by Debasish Sarkar, who was the IC of the traffic control room in East Midnapore district. In a statement issued on Monday afternoon, the Commission directed that the transfer be implemented immediately and a compliance report be submitted to it by Monday evening. The ECI did not disclose the reason for the sudden change. The timing of Mishra's removal, just a day before polling, has also drawn attention.
Bengal bypolls: Voting peacefully underway in Nandigram, Rejinagar
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 6 (IANS) Voting was underway in two Assembly constituencies in West Bengal -- Nandigram in East Midnapore district and Rejinagar in Murshidabad district -- under an unprecedented security cover. The polling process has been peaceful till the time the report was filed. The polling process started at 7 a.m. and will continue till 6 p.m. From the very first hour, enthusiasm was witnessed among voters in both seats, with long queues at the various polling booths in both constituencies. The results for the by-elections will be declared on October 9. With Sanchita Pradhan Dey, the candidate from the former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led Mamata All India Trinamool Congress at Nandigram, withdrawing her nomination at the last moment, political observers feel it will be a cakewalk victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate, Hasi Rani Rath. Dey is the mother of Late Chandranath Rath, the personal assistant of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, who was assassinated on the road in Madhyamgram on May 6. A sympathy wave is likely to work in her favour. Nandigram is all set to witness a four-cornered contest among the BJP, Congress, Ritabrata Banerjee-led Democratic Trinamool Congress and the CPI. CM Adhikari, who is a voter in Nandigram, is expected to reach the concerned polling booth to exercise his mandate at around 10 a.m. The total number of candidates in Nandigram is 16. The number of voters in the by-election is 2,66,419 -- male voters 1,38,955; female voters 1,27,463; and one is a third gender voter. Of the 323 booths, the police have identified 85 as sensitive. A tough contest is expected in Rejinagar where over 65 per cent of the voters are from the minority community. Rejinagar is all set to witness a six-cornered contest this time involving the BJP, Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP), Congress, Mamata All India Trinamool Congress, Democratic Trinamool Congress, CPI(M) and Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP). The total number of candidates in Rejinagar is 14. The total number of voters there is 2,56,546. There are 1,33,925 male voters, 1,22,616 female voters and five are third gender voters. A total of 71 companies will be deployed for the bypolls to the two Assembly constituencies -- 37 in Nandigram and the remaining 34 in Rejinagar. According to police sources, a total of about eight kilograms of explosives were found in their special operations in different areas of Rejinagar on Monday. A search is underway to find out who was involved in the incident. Apart from this, the police have filed 78 cases under non-bailable sections since the announcement of the elections. They have arrested 99 people as a precautionary measure. In the Assembly polls earlier this year, Suvendu Adhikari was elected simultaneously from Nandigram and Bhabanipur in South Kolkata. However, he decided to retain Bhabanipur, thus necessitating bypolls for Nandigram. On the other hand, the AJUP candidate Humayun Kabir won both the Naoda and Rejinagar Assembly seats in Murshidabad district. Later, he chose to retain Naoda, thus necessitating a bypoll for Rejinagar.
Weather today October 6: The India Meteorological Department has forecast rainfall and thunderstorms across several states through October 11, with isolated heavy rain likely in Tamil Nadu, Kerala and parts of Karnataka. Gusty winds, lightning and strong surface winds are also expected in several areas, while widespread rainfall is likely in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal and Kerala.
15 MPs representing India's political, geographic diversity at UN General Assembly
Digital Desk | United Nations, Oct 6 (IANS) Fifteen members of Parliament, representing the political and geographic diversity of India have joined the India's delegation to General Assembly, showcasing the nation's democracy. They paid homage on Monday to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue on the UN campus before heading out to their General Assembly assignments. India's Permanent Representative P Harish, the senior diplomat who heads India's UN Mission, briefed the MPs on India's engagement with the UN. The MPs met with Assistant Secretary-General Kanni Wignaraja, who is also the regional director for Asia and the Pacific, and discussed the work of the UN Development Programme in India. During the meeting, they explored how parliamentarians can advance the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. The MPs plunged immediately into their assignments representing India. Two of the BJP MPs, Banshilal Gurjar from Madhya Pradesh and C P Joshi from Rajasthan, spoke in Hindi with simultaneous translation. Gurjar addressed the Assembly's Fifth Committee that deals with budgetary and administrative matters on the scale of assessments for the apportionment of UN expenses. C P Joshi, who heads the Parliament Committee on Petitions, addressed the Second Committee that deals with economic and financial matters. Gumma Thanuja Rani, a YSR Congress MP from Andhra Pradesh, spoke in English on the organisation of work at the Fifth Committee. Traditionally, MPs reinforce India's presence at the General Assembly during the months after its new session begins in September. There are six MPs from the BJP, and besides Joshi and Gurjar, they are Mahima Kumari Mewar from Rajasthan; Biplab Kumar Deb, BJP national general secretary from Tripura; Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri from Karnataka; and Sikander Kumar from Himachal Pradesh. The two Congress Party MPs in the delegation are Rahul Kaswan from Rajasthan and Anil Kumar Yadav from Telangana. The others, besides them, are LK Sudhish of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam from Tamil Nadu; Asit Mal of the Trinamool Congress from West Bengal; Smajwadi Party's Priya Saroj from Uttar Pradesh; Lovely Anand of the Janata Dal (United) from Bihar; Sanjay Yadav of the Rashtriya Janata Dal also from Bihar, and Rajabhau Waje of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) from Maharashtra.
Voting begins in six by-elections across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam and Puducherry
The News Mill
Bypolls Election: Voting Begins In 6 Seats Across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Puducherry
Voting began at 7 am on Tuesday in six constituencies across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam and Puducherry, with voters deciding the next representatives in seats left vacant after the April elections. Polling is being held in Nandigram and Rejinagar in
Voting begins in Bengal bypolls to Nandigram, Rejinagar seats
Kolkata: Polling began Tuesday, October 6, at 7 am for by-elections in the Nandigram and Rejinagar assembly constituencies in West Bengal amid tight security arrangements, officials said. Altogether 71 companies of central forces have been deployed for the bypolls, they said. Polling will continue till 6 pm. The contests will give the BJP an early 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 .
Bypolls 2026: Four regions, six seats and a fresh test for Indias political map
Voting began in six constituencies across West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry on Tuesday morning. The results of the elections will be announced on October 9, carrying political significance for various parties. In West Bengal, the focus includes the symbolic Nandigram constituency and its contest involving various candidates. Assam's Nagaon constituency is experiencing a triangular contest among prominent parties, including the BJP and Congress.
Test for BJP in Bengal, TVK in TN; bypolls in 5 assembly constituencies, 1 LS seat begins
Voting commenced at 7 am for multiple by-elections across West Bengal, Assam, and Puducherry on Tuesday. In West Bengal, significant contests included Nandigram and Rejinagar with notable security. Assam's Nagaon Lok Sabha by-election also featured 19 candidates competing for votes. In Puducherry, the election for Thattanchavady Assembly witnessed a three-way contest among different political parties. Counting for these elections will occur on October 9 across all constituencies.
The Election Commission (EC) will today hold bypolls for five Assembly seats and one Lok Sabha constituency across Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam and the Union Territory of Puducherry. Counting of votes will take place on Friday.
J&K Govt enhances retirement age of Judicial Officers from 60 to 62 years
Jammu, Oct 5:J&K Government has accorded sanction to the enhancement of the age of superannuation of Judicial Officers serving in the Union Territory from 60 years to 62 years, with effect from March 31, 2026. Sanction to enhancement of retirement age is, however, subject to certain stipulated conditions. Enhancement would take effect also in respect of those Judicial Officers, who retired on or after March 31, 2026, subject to their consent and fulfillment of the applicable conditions. As per conditions specified, the continuation in service beyond the age of 60 years will be subject to assessment by the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh of the fitness, eligibility, suitability, performance and continued utility of the Judicial Officer concerned, in accordance with the recommendation of the Full Court dated August 10, 2026. Besides, necessary amendments in the relevant rules will be undertaken in consultation with the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Commissioner Secretary, J&K Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Achal Sethi specified in an order, issued on behalf of the Lieutenant Governor. The order issued today, October 5, 2026, following approval by the Lieutenant Governor, is in consonance with the Supreme Court directive. Earlier, J&K Council of Ministers, led by the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had approved the proposal, in light of SC direction, in its meeting on September 22, 2026. The Supreme Court, while considering W P (C) No 1022/1989, titled All India Judges Association & Ors. and connected matters, vide orders dated July 22, 2026 and August 5, 2026, had directed the State governments and Union Territories to take a decision regarding enhancement of the age of superannuation of Judicial Officers from 60 to 61/62 years, in consultation with the respective High Courts. The Supreme Court, vide order dated July 22, 2026, had further directed that, wherever such enhancement was agreed to, the same would take effect from March 31, 2026, including in respect of Judicial Officers who retired on or after the said date (March 31, 2026), subject to their consent and fulfillment of the applicable conditions. Thereafter, vide order dated September 1, 2026, the Supreme Court directed seven consenting States, namely Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, to amend their judicial service rules to provide for superannuation at 62 years, subject to assessment of suitability at the age of 60 years by the jurisdictional High Court. The apex court separately directed the remaining States and Union Territories, including the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, to take an appropriate decision and submit a compliance report. In pursuance of those directions, the matter was considered in consultation with the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The Registrar General, vide communications dated July 30, 2026 and August 12, 2026, conveyed that the Full Court, in its deliberations held on August 10, 2026, resolved to recommend enhancement of the retirement age of Judicial Officers in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to 62 years, subject to such officers being found fit and eligible for their continued utility beyond the age of 60 years, Achal Sethi mentioned. Thereafter, the matter was taken up with the Finance Department, which vide U O No 7786054 FD-Code/916/2026-02-978 dated September 9, 2026, conveyed its concurrence to the proposal, subject to assessment of fitness, eligibility and continued utility beyond the age of 60 years, carrying out of necessary amendments to the relevant service rules, and approval of the Council of Ministers. The Council of Ministers, vide decision number 146/12/2026 dated September 22, 2026, accorded approval to the proposal. Now, therefore, in pursuance of the aforesaid directions of the Supreme Court, the competent authority has been pleased to accord sanction to the enhancement of the age of superannuation of Judicial Officers serving in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir from 60 years to 62 years, with effect from March 31, 2026, subject to stipulated conditions, the order read.
