Bengal govt to set up magic school and museum on history of magic
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 30 (IANS) A full-fledged magic school is going to be set up in the state to bring the magic art of West Bengal to the new generation, government officials said on Friday. In addition, a magic museum on the history of magic in Bengal will also be set up to preserve the long history of Bengali magic practice, rare equipment and the contributions of artists. Preparations for the implementation of this plan have begun under the initiative of the State Information and Cultural Affairs (I and CA) Department. The state government has formed an advisory committee to prepare the outline of this project. The country's eminent magician P.C. Sorcar (Junior) is the chief advisor of the committee. He has been joined by several other eminent people who have been associated with the magic art for a long time. Initial discussions have already started on how the school and museum plans will be implemented. The first formal meeting of the advisory committee was held at Nandan Auditorium in Kolkata on Friday. State Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs Department (Independent Charge), Purnima Chakraborty, and Secretary of the Department Soumitra Mohan were present there. P.C. Sorcar (Junior), his wife Jayashree Sarkar and daughter magician Maneka Sarkar also joined the meeting. The meeting discussed the curriculum of the proposed magic school, the type of training, the infrastructure of the museum and the possible outline of the project implementation. The issue of establishing magic not only as stage entertainment, but also as an independent art and science-based practice also gained importance in the discussion. After the meeting, P.C. Sorcar (Junior) said that the history of Bengali magic is very rich and ancient and that tradition needs to be preserved in a scientific way. According to him, there is science, practice and special skills behind magic. If this initiative of the state government is implemented, the new generation will get the opportunity to choose magic as a profession. The school can also play an important role in creating interest in this art among the youth, he said. One of the goals of the proposed magic museum is to preserve the history of magic practice in Bengal. According to the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, there are plans to preserve the lives and work of prominent magicians of Bengal, the history of different stages of magic, rare equipment used, old clothes and ancient books. Through this, visitors and researchers will get the opportunity to learn about the evolution of the art of magic and the techniques used at different times. On the other hand, there is a plan to provide training to experienced magicians in the magic school. A specific curriculum may also be created for that training. In addition to teaching magic techniques, there are plans to provide lessons on stage presentation, sleight of hand, holding the audience's attention and the science behind magic. Purnima Chakraborty, Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs Department, said that the aim of this initiative is to institutionalise the ancient arts of Bengal. According to Chakraborty, the state has always given importance to the practice of art and culture. If a magic school and museum are established, it will be possible to present this tradition to future generations in a more comprehensive manner, she said.
Niti Aayog's Lahiri flags growth risks in case of further monetary policy tightening
In India, it's essential for policymakers to harmonize growth output with inflation expectations. Niti Aayogs Ashok Lahiri pointed out the importance of addressing inflation alongside job creation. He urged banks to play a pivotal role in linking enterprises with financial support and investment options. To capitalize on its natural resources, West Bengal must focus on industry attraction, while effective land acquisition and good infrastructure remain key for business development.
Bengal coordinates with Assam to bring back tigress that strayed into Raimona National Park
Manoj Oraon, West Bengal's Forest Minister, has revealed that the state is joining forces with Assam to recapture a tigress, which was initially released in Buxa Tiger Reserve to help bolster the local tiger numbers. After navigating across the Sankosh river, the tigress found its way into Raimona National Park.
The News Mill
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari sends Rs 50 lakh relief for Bihar father-son killed in Chorbagan
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has sent two compensation cheques of Rs 25 lakh each to the family of a father and son from Muzaffarpur who lost their lives in the Chorbagan stampede tragedy. Following the heart-wrenching incident in Chorbagan, Kolkata, which claimed 19 lives, the Chief Minister Adhikari personally met with the grieving families of the 17 victims from West Bengal to provide financial assistance, according to a press release issued by the Chief Minister
Bengal govt approves employment scheme for families of poll violence victims
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 30 (IANS) The West Bengal government has initiated administrative processes to provide state government jobs to family members of individuals who lost their lives in political and election-related violence in the state over the last 25 years, a government official confirmed on Friday. The policy decision, approved by the state cabinet, covers families of victims killed during Panchayat, Municipal, Assembly, and Lok Sabha election clashes across the past two and a half decades. Officials stated that the recruitment initiative will be executed without considering political affiliations, making family members of deceased supporters or workers from any political party eligible, provided they fulfil specified administrative criteria. To navigate legal complexities arising from historic incidents dating back up to 25 years, the state government conducted prior consultations with legal experts and secured formal concurrence from the Law Department before finalising the policy framework. Preparations for implementation are being led directly by district administrations. During a virtual conference held on Thursday, primarily convened to discuss census readiness, Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Agarwal briefed District Magistrates across the state on the policy and instructed them to begin identifying eligible families and preparing preliminary documentation. Given the operational challenge of tracing beneficiaries and establishing cause-of-death links to past electoral violence, the administration will rely heavily on official police records, historical case files, and official death documentation to verify claims. The state government plans to issue a formal notification detailing specific eligibility criteria, including age limits, required educational qualifications, and designated job roles, alongside public media advertisements inviting formal applications. Submitted applications will undergo multi-tier verification by local police stations, district administrative authorities, and legal scrutinizers. Upon successful verification of claims, government employment will be formally extended to one designated member of the victim's family.
West Bengal Chief Minister Hits Back at Abhishek Banerjee Over Police Warning
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari responds sharply to TMCs Abhishek Banerjees threats against police, suggesting he needs medical help. West Bengal Chief Minister Hits Back at Abhishek Banerjee Over Police Warning
For ex-SC judge Desai, roster remains full after retirement
Former Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai has been appointed by the apex court as the sole mediator in the high-stakes Krishna-Godavari basin gas migration dispute involving Reliance Industries. This appointment comes as Justice Desai has also been a prominent figure in leading committees for drafting Uniform Civil Code (UCC) legislation across several Indian states, including Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and West Bengal.
Bengal shifts 12,000 people to safety, Assam monitors situation as GLOF hits adjoining Bhutan
West Bengal has taken precautionary measures by evacuating 12,000 residents from areas near the Sankosh River. This action follows a significant rise in water levels caused by a glacial lake outburst flood in Bhutan. Authorities in Assam are closely monitoring vulnerable regions for potential impacts from the flood. National and State Disaster Response Force teams are prepared for rescue operations if necessary.
Nearly 12,000 evacuated in West Bengal after glacial lake outburst flood in Bhutan
Guwahati: Nearly 12,000 people residing along the Sankosh River in West Bengals Alipurduar district, downstream of Bhutan, were evacuated to safer places on Friday following a rise in the rivers water level caused by a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in the neighbouring Himalayan country, a senior official said. The emergency measure came a day [] The post Nearly 12,000 evacuated in West Bengal after glacial lake outburst flood in Bhutan appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Bengal: Two arrested for killing man over extramarital affair in Asansol
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 30 (IANS) West Bengal Police on Friday arrested two accused for beating a man to death over an alleged extramarital affair. The deceased was identified as Ashok Kumar Singh alias Vicky. According to his family members, Vickys family lives in Delhi. The young man is married and has two minor children. Occasionally, he used to live in a quarter in the Hindustan Cables area in the Rupnarayanpur outpost area of Salanpur in Asansol. According to locals, there was unrest over Vicky's 'intimacy' with a married woman in the area. On Thursday evening, Vicky went to the house of a man named Montu Yadav. Some people claimed that Vicky was having an extramarital affair with Montu's wife. Montu left work and went home after getting the news that Vicky had gone to their house. After reaching home, there was an argument and a fight between the two. Allegedly, Montu locked Vicky in his house with some acquaintances and beat him severely. The victim's father claimed that his son was beaten up on a false charge and in a planned manner. That is why he lost his life, claimed the father. According to the police, Vicky was rescued by locals in a bloody state. He was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries. As Vicky's physical condition started deteriorating, the doctors advised him to be shifted to Asansol District Hospital. However, the young man died on the way to the hospital. Based on the complaint lodged by Vicky's family, the police arrested two people on charges of murder. The names of the arrested are Surendra Yadav and Deepak Yadav. They are known to Montu. The police of Rupnarayanpur outpost have started searching for the remaining accused. The police produced the two arrested people in the Asansol court today and took them into custody. The woman with whom Vicky allegedly had a romantic relationship has also been detained by the police for the sake of investigation.
Thousands evacuated in Bengal after GLOF in Bhutan
A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in Bhutan's Gasa region caused the Sankosh River in West Bengal's Alipurduar district to swell, leading to the evacuation of approximately 12,000 people to safer locations on Friday. Authorities are monitoring the situation, with NDRF and SDRF teams deployed, though no major damage or casualties have been reported so far. Rivers in Jalpaiguri district remained unaffected.
No firecrackers beyond stipulated hours during Kali Puja-Diwali in West Bengal: Environment Minister
The state government will deploy round-the-clock mobile teams to monitor violations and take measures to ensure public safety and protect the environment, Environment Minister Manoj Oraon said
West Bengal govt plans jobs for families of political violence victims over 25 years
The West Bengal government is planning to provide government jobs to one member of families who lost relatives to political violence over the past 25 years, according to sources in the state administration. The proposed move is aimed at extending support to families affected by political retaliation in the state.
Sundarbans childcare workers honoured at National Awards
TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee has cautioned police officers against allegedly framing party workers in fabricated cases. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari responded by claiming Banerjee is incoherent due to a sodium-potassium imbalance. Adhikari also alleged that an aide of Banerjee has provided information against him. Banerjee demanded the arrest of members of a Durga Puja committee following a tragic stampede.
West Bengal, Assam on flood alert after glacial lake outburst in Bhutan (VIDEO)
Several districts in West Bengal, along with parts of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, were placed on flood alert on Friday, media reports said. The flood, triggered by a glacial lake burst at Sintaphu Lake in neighboring Bhutan, swept away ...
Over 10,000 Evacuated in West Bengal as Bhutan Glacial Lake Outburst Triggers Flood Alert
SRINAGAR: Parts of West Bengal and Assam have been placed on high alert following a glacial lake outburst in Bhutan that triggered flash flooding and raised concerns over a possible sudden rise in water levels in the Sankosh river, according to media reports. More than 10,000 people have been shifted to relief shelters and safer []
Assam on high flood alert after glacial lake bursts in Bhutan
Guwahati : A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in Bhutan has triggered a high flood alert in Assam and West Bengal on Friday. Residents were asked to evacuate from vulnerable areas along the Sankosh river and its tributaries following which people were seen leaving their homes along with their cattle in Alipurduar district of West [] The post Assam on high flood alert after glacial lake bursts in Bhutan appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Kolkata Police Constable Exam Date 2026: Final Written Examination Scheduled for November 29
The West Bengal Police Recruitment Board (WBPRB) has released the schedule for the final written examination for Kolkata Police Constable and Lady Constable recruitment 2026. As per the board's notification, the examination will take place on November 29, 2026 (Sunday), between
ED Conducts Raids in West Bengal Over
The Enforcement Directorate has launched raids in Kolkata and surrounding areas linked to a 280 crore bank fraud involving a power project. ED Conducts Raids in West Bengal Over 280 Crore Bank Fraud Case
Misuse of insolvency proceedings: ED conducts raids in West Bengal
A total of eight premises have been raided in the State in the case involving Kohinoor Power, lender banks and some others, says officials
State authorities across Northern West Bengal and Assam were placed on high alert on Friday, October 30, 2026, following a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) at the Shintaphu glacial lake in northwestern Bhutans Gasa district. The burst occurred below Wakila Mountain, sending a rapid surge of water into the upper reaches of the Punatsangchhu river [] The post Bhutan Glacial Lake Outburst Triggers High Alert in West Bengal and Assam; Jal Shakti Ministry Issues Sankosh River Warning appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Glacial Lake Outburst in Bhutan Triggers Flood Alert in Northern West Bengal
A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in Bhutan has triggered a high flood alert in parts of northern West Bengal, prompting evacuations in areas along the Sankosh river and its tributaries amid fears of a sudden rise in water levels, officials
ED raids four places in Bengal in Rs 280 crore bank fraud case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 30 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate on Friday was conducting search operations at multiple locations in West Bengal, in a bank fraud case worth Rs 280 crore. It is alleged that money from a power plant in Jharkhand was laundered to Kolkata. ED had taken note of a chartered accountant in the Lake Town area in north Kolkata for allegedly opening shell companies and committing corruption worth crores of rupees. Besides Kolkata, the raid is also underway in Uttarpara in Hooghly district, Asansol in West Burdwan district and in Howrah. ED officials entered the house of Sudipto Ghosh, a resident of Shibtala Street in Uttarpara, this morning. The ED investigation team was accompanied by central forces personnel. Sudipto Ghosh is a chartered accountant by profession. The family is being questioned, and their house is being searched. Ghosh, however, has said that he has no connection with the corruption case. The investigators have taken permission for the probe, and he is cooperating with the central investigation agency. ED officials have also raided the house of Chartered Accountant (CA) Ashok Sarathi in the elite Avni Oxford (Phase 1) housing complex in Lake Town. A vigorous search operation and interrogation were being conducted there since morning under the strict guard of the central forces. According to sources in the investigating agency, the search is being conducted on charges of embezzlement and money laundering of money taken from the bank in the name of building a power project or power plant in Jharkhand. The name of the main private company under investigation is Kohinoor Power Private Limited (KPPL). The CA is accused of taking a loan from the bank on the pretext of setting up a 66 MW power plant in Jharkhand. The amount of this loan taken from the bank consortium was about Rs 280 crore. It has been alleged that the money taken in the name of building a power plant was not used for the project but was embezzled through a web of shell companies. The officials believe that chartered accountant Ashok Sarathi has a major role in this financial scam. Currently, in addition to questioning the chartered accountant inside the residence, the ED officials are searching for digital documents, bank accounts and various suspicious papers. It remains to be seen what other information comes to light at the end of the investigation. According to the ED, the investigation was initiated on the basis of the complaint filed by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) before the Ld. 2nd Special Court, Kolkata, in respect of the affairs of Kohinoor Power Private Limited (KPPL) and others. An investigation into the affairs of the company was ordered by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) pursuant to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) forwarding a list of companies in respect of which the Resolution Professional (RP) had filed applications before the NCLT concerning avoidance transactions.
CWC issues flood advisory for West Bengal and Assam after Bhutan GLOF
The News Mill
Bhutan glacial flood triggers evacuations along Indias Sankosh River
State authorities in West Bengal have issued high-alert and evacuation warnings for residents living along the Sankosh River following a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in neighboring Bhutan
Kolkata Police Constable Final Exam Date 2026 Out: Check Examination Scheme
The West Bengal Police Recruitment Board has announced the Kolkata Police Constable 2026 final written tentative exam date, the exam is set to be conducted on November 29, 2026 from 12 noon to 1 pm
Enjoy the flavours of West Bengal through this pop-up in Mumbai next week
A collaboration between Bandra eatery Kari Apla and Bengal-based Earth Story Farms, brings family recipes and lesser-known ingredients from the eastern state to the table
Bhutan glacial lake outburst triggers flash flood alerts in Bengal, Assam
Digital Desk | Thimphu, Oct 30 (IANS) A glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) at Shintaphu Lake in northwestern Bhutan has triggered flash flood warnings for parts of West Bengal and Assam, with authorities monitoring vulnerable areas along rivers flowing towards the two states. The incident occurred on Thursday evening in Bhutan's Gasa district, washing away infrastructure at Gasa Tshachu, a popular natural hot spring situated near the Mo Chhu River. No casualties have been reported, as the area had been evacuated before the floodwaters arrived. Shintaphu Lake, located at the source of the Mo Chhu River, is among Bhutan's 17 glacial lakes identified as potentially dangerous. Gasa Tshachu had previously suffered extensive damage from a flash flood on August 26, 2021, when the swollen Mo Chhu changed its course towards the hot spring. According to reports, the floodwaters have crossed Srigang in Kabesa Gewog, around eight kilometres from Punakha Dzong, raising concerns about downstream areas. Bhutan has alerted the administrations of West Bengal and Assam about the potential threat to districts bordering the Himalayan kingdom. Assam's Dhubri district and West Bengal's Darjeeling hills, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri have been identified as vulnerable areas. In West Bengal, the Cooch Behar administration has also alerted residents living along the banks of the Sankosh River. The river originates in northern Bhutan and forms part of the interconnected river system that carries water from the Himalayan region towards the Brahmaputra in Assam. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious while assuring them that precautionary measures are being taken. Appealing for calm, Amit Kumar Shaw, Superintendent of Police of the Alipurduar Police District, said there was no reason for people to panic. Speaking to IANS, SP Shaw on Thursday said, People are slightly in panic, and my appeal to everyone is that there is no need to panic in any way. We are in alert mode, the administration is fully prompt, and all agencies are actively working, so there is no issue. We hope that within two to three hours, we will reach a resolution and address whatever trouble the public is facing. The flash flood has also damaged infrastructure in Bhutan. An official press release said a solar-powered irrigation lifting system installed earlier this year in the Dochhukha-Dzomlingthang-Ritsa Chiwog area under Guma Gewog in Punakha had been partially damaged by the surge in the Mo Chhu River. A local leader said the irrigation system had stopped functioning, although officials have yet to determine the full extent of the damage. Meanwhile, flood-borne debris has covered a section of the Punakha-Gasa Highway in the Dzomlingthang area, potentially affecting road connectivity. A glacial lake outburst flood occurs when water accumulated in a lake formed by glacial retreat is suddenly released, often after the failure of a natural dam. Such events can be triggered by heavy rainfall, landslides, avalanches, earthquakes or rapid melting of a glacier. Rising temperatures associated with human-induced climate change are accelerating glacier retreat and increasing concerns over the stability of glacial lakes. Sudden releases of water can generate powerful flood surges, threatening downstream communities, infrastructure and agricultural land.
Glacial Lake Outburst In Bhutan, Assam And West Bengal On High Alert For Flash Floods
The outburst at Sintaphu Lake in Bhutan's Mochu sub-basin reportedly released approximately 7.4 million cubic metres of water.
A major glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) in Bhutan's high-altitude region has triggered flood warning in several districts of Assam, West Bengal. The outburst was reported from the Sintaphu Lake on Thursday night, prompting a...
IMD Weather Forecast: Very Heavy Rain Alert for Sikkim, West Bengal and Bihar on October 30
New Delhi, October 30 : IMD Weather Forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of eastern and northeastern India on Friday, October 30, with Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim among the regions expected to experience intense rainfall. The weather department has also forecast [] The post IMD Weather Forecast: Very Heavy Rain Alert for Sikkim, West Bengal and Bihar on October 30 appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Bhutan Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Triggers High Alerts in Assam and West Bengal
Siliguri, October 30 : Bhutan Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) concerns have prompted heightened vigilance in low-lying areas of Assam and West Bengal following reports of a major glacial flood event in the high-altitude Himalayan region of Bhutan. Authorities are monitoring transboundary rivers amid fears that sudden increases in water levels could threaten downstream settlements, [] The post Bhutan Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Triggers High Alerts in Assam and West Bengal appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Former West Bengal minister Indranil Sen sent to 13 days police custody
Indranil Sen served as thetourism and culture minister during the Mamata Banerjee era
No sky lanterns allowed without formal permission from the fire department, says DGP West Bengal
After Arnab rain, Met tracks another bay system
QR scan snags slow DigiYatra entry, leave flyers waiting at Airport gates
Fire dept nod mandatory for Phanush release on Diwali, Kali Puja & Chhath
Man chases, hits estranged wifes bike with car in New Town
Youth forces women into porn shoots, arrested
Cops given free hand to act in crimes against women, says Suvendu
Man threatens woman with acid attack in Gariahat parking row
El Nino, sea surface temp rise hint at cyclone reruns
Businessman killed in bike accident in Dum Dum, rider flees
Sarsuna victims ashamed, scared to step out of home
Young footballers shine at inter-school tourney
Pandals miss dismantling deadline in Kolkata as well
Rights Body Seeks Report In Two Weeks
HC: Oldest surviving bldgs are citys pride, all must ensure their protection
Centre approves Rs 430cr for dredging at Kolkata, Haldia ports
Over 30L Swasthya Sathi beneficiaries untraceable
Shocked to hear about attack on JU, freedom from violence is a right that we all share: Amartya Sen
Stabilty cert must for Kali Puja pandals
MBBS exam change: CCTV, frisking of students back
SRFTI students union writes to VC on cop presence, intimidation
Alert sounded in Alipurduar after Bhutan lake outburst
West Bengal bars new teachers from contesting elections
The move, aimed to improve quality of education in State-run and aided schools, has sparked criticism from several teachers associations
Bengal: Revenue Inspector arrested in Aushgram bribery case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) Investigators from the West Bengal Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) arrested a state government revenue inspector on Wednesday evening for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 4,000 to issue an Economically Weaker Section (EWS) certificate in East Burdwan district, an official confirmed on Thursday. The accused official, posted at the Land and Land Reforms Office in Aushgram, was apprehended during a trap operation following persistent complaints from residents regarding illicit extortion and bribery at the office. According to ACB officials, the agency launched an investigation after receiving a specific complaint detailing that the revenue inspector had demanded Rs 4,000 as a bribe to process an official EWS certificate. Acting on the complaint, a special team of the Anti-Corruption Bureau laid a trap at the Aushgram Land and Land Reforms Office on Wednesday evening. ACB officers executed a sudden raid on the premises and caught the official red-handed at the exact moment he accepted the bribe money from the complainant. The surprise raid caused brief commotion across the government facility. The ACB has initiated formal legal proceedings under specific sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act against the arrested employee. Investigators are currently probing whether other officials or network links within the department are involved in similar corrupt practices. Underlining its zero-tolerance stance against public sector extortion, the ACB issued a statement affirming that strict enforcement measures will be intensified across state departments to ensure transparent, bribe-free government service delivery for citizens.
West Bengal Considers One Class, One Teacher Policy for Primary Schools
West Bengal plans to implement a One Class, One Teacher policy to enhance education quality in primary schools starting next academic year. West Bengal Considers One Class, One Teacher Policy for Primary Schools
Invariz partners with IEM Kolkata to launch AI centre of excellence
Slain BJP councillors father alleges death threats
West Bengal UDMA Signs MOUs for Kolkata urban renewal, Rs 3,000 cr waste project
'Silence is not an option': Mamata Banerjee backs INDIA bloc's November 1 rally against 'vote chori'
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday (October 29)extended her support to the INDIA bloc's 'Chalo Dilli' marchagainst alleged vote theft, scheduled to be held at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi on November 1.
West Bengal Introduces New Guidelines for Fireworks During Kali Puja and Chhath Festival
West Bengal government imposes new restrictions on fireworks for Kali Puja and Chhath to balance celebration, safety, and environmental concerns. West Bengal Introduces New Guidelines for Fireworks During Kali Puja and Chhath Festival
Former West Bengal Minister Indranil Sen Arrested in Alleged Durga Puja Pass Scam
Indranil Sen, ex-West Bengal minister, faces multiple charges in a scam involving fake Durga Puja passes linked to UNESCO. Former West Bengal Minister Indranil Sen Arrested in Alleged Durga Puja Pass Scam
Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil reviews Ganga basin flood control initiatives
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil reviewed the planning and implementation of measures to address flood, erosion and drainage problems in the Ganga basin during the 19th meeting of the Ganga Flood Control Board (GFCB), an official said on Thursday. Patil led discussions on preparation of risk-based basin Master Plans, assessment of the adequacy of waterways and ventways under bridges, improving the quality of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), timely implementation of flood management projects and application of modern technologies in flood management, the official said in a statement. During the review meeting held on Tuesday, the Union Minister emphasised coordination among Union Ministries, state governments and other stakeholders, particularly in addressing issues relating to river morphology, drainage congestion, infrastructure development and flood resilience, the statement said. The meeting reaffirmed the importance of an integrated, risk-informed and technology-enabled approach to flood management, supported by effective Centrestate cooperation, improved technical standards and coordinated implementation of flood management measures across the Ganga basin, it added. The Union Minister also highlighted importance of modern survey techniques, sound technical investigations, appropriate statutory clearances and timely resolution of project implementation bottlenecks. The meeting was attended by Suvendu Adhikari, Chief Minister of West Bengal; Ram Nath Thakur, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; K. V. Raju, NITI Aayog member; Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and Water Resources Minister; Swatantra Dev Singh, Uttar Pradesh Jal Shakti Minister; representatives of the Ganga basin states; senior officials of the Central and state governments; and representatives of the concerned agencies, the statement said. The Board, chaired by the Union Jal Shakti Minister, provides a high-level institutional platform for strengthening Centrestate cooperation and coordinated flood management across the Ganga basin. The meeting chaired by C.R. Patil on Tuesday provided an opportunity to review ongoing initiatives, strengthen interstate coordination and deliberate upon emerging approaches for effective flood management. The Board, constituted by the Union government on April 18, 1972, comprises representatives of the concerned Central Ministries and Chief Ministers of the Ganga Basin states or their representatives, with the Ganga Flood Control Commission (GFCC) Chairman Er. Sher Singh, serving as its Member Secretary, the statement said.
Tripura inaugurates first Tea Auction Centre to boost marketing, ensure better prices for growers
Digital Desk | Agartala, Oct 29 (IANS) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday inaugurated the states first tea auction centre in Agartala, making it the second state in the Northeast after Assam, and the fifth in the country, to have such a facility. The Tripura Tea Development Corporation Limited (TTDCL) Chairman, Samir Ranjan Ghosh, said the tea auction centre aims to strengthen the marketing network for Tripura tea, reduce transportation costs and the time required to sell tea consignments, and help growers secure competitive prices for their produce. State Industries and Commerce Minister Santan Chakma attended the inauguration ceremony, held at the Pandit Nehru Complex in Gurkhabasti, on the outskirts of Agartala city. The foundation stone for the tea auction centre was laid in March 2024 as part of efforts to strengthen the states tea industry and improve marketing facilities for local producers. According to Ghosh, Tripura currently has 54 large tea gardens and around 2,800 small tea growers, collectively producing approximately 9 million to 10 million kg of tea annually. He said the state had so far depended on auction centres outside Tripura to market a substantial portion of its tea production, with nearly 60 per cent of the produce being sold through external auction facilities. The establishment of the new centre is expected to provide tea producers with more direct access to buyers, improve marketing opportunities for small tea growers and reduce the time required to sell tea consignments, he said. The TTDCL chairman said that selling a tea consignment currently takes around 44 days, but the corporation expects the new auction facility to reduce the time by approximately 40 per cent. To ensure the successful operation of the centre, the corporation has held several rounds of discussions with buyers and brokerage firms in Kolkata and Guwahati to encourage their participation in the Agartala tea auctions, Ghosh said. Several reputed brokerage firms and buyers from different parts of the country have already expressed interest in participating in the auctions, he added. The participation of buyers and brokers will be crucial to ensuring competitive bidding, strengthening market linkages and expanding the reach of Tripura tea, which has traditionally depended on external trading centres for a significant share of its sales. The new facility is also expected to improve coordination between tea producers, traders and buyers, while providing a more accessible platform for marketing locally produced tea. However, the long-term effectiveness of the auction centre will depend on sustained buyer participation, competitive bidding and the extent to which reductions in marketing time and transportation costs translate into better returns for tea growers. TTDCL Managing Director Rajesh Kumar Das, who was also present at the inauguration ceremony, described the occasion as a defining moment for the state's tea industry and its stakeholders, including growers, manufacturers, bought-leaf factory operators, tea estate owners, workers and traders. The Agartala Tea Auction Centre has been established with one clear purpose, to place the tea stakeholders of the state at the centre of a transparent, efficient and rewarding marketing system, Das said. At present, a major portion of Tripura's tea is transported to auction markets in Guwahati and West Bengal for sale, resulting in additional transportation expenses and higher marketing costs for producers. The establishment of an auction centre within the state is expected to facilitate better coordination between sellers and buyers, reduce transportation expenses and improve price realisation for tea producers and others associated with the sector. Tripura's 54 tea gardens include estates operated by the state-owned Tripura Tea Development Corporation Limited, the Tripura Cooperative Society and private owners. Alongside these large tea estates, around 2,800 small tea growers play a significant role in the state's tea industry, contributing nearly 30 per cent of its total tea production, which stands at approximately 90 lakh kg annually. More than 60 per cent of the state's tea production is currently marketed through auction centres outside Tripura, highlighting the importance of developing an effective local auction system. With the inauguration of the Agartala Tea Auction Centre, the state is seeking to strengthen its tea marketing infrastructure, reduce dependence on external auction markets and create better opportunities for growers to obtain competitive prices for their produce. The initiative is expected to provide a major boost to Tripura's tea industry by bringing key marketing activities closer to producers and creating a more efficient trading environment within the state.
I-PAC raid row: SC reserves order on ED plea for CBI probe against Mamata Banerjee
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its order on a plea filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe and registration of an FIR against former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and senior police officials over alleged interference in search operations at the office of political consultancy firm Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) in Kolkata. A Bench of Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and N.V. Anjaria reserved its order on the limited question of whether the matter should be referred to the CBI or left to the newly elected West Bengal government to decide on the investigation. During the hearing, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Banerjee, argued that with a change in the government in West Bengal, there was no longer any impediment to a state-level decision on transferring the investigation to the CBI. He questioned the need for a judicial direction, submitting that the state government was competent to refer the matter to the Central agency on its own. The Justice Mishra-led Bench also questioned why the West Bengal government could not refer the matter to the CBI in the changed circumstances, observing that the situation prevailing at the time the ED approached the top court might no longer exist. However, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju, appearing for the ED, opposed leaving the matter to the state government, arguing that such a course could invite allegations of mala fide action. ASG Raju submitted that the matter involved allegations against not only the former Chief Minister but also senior police officers, making it necessary to ensure an independent and fair investigation. He further argued that since cross-cases were involved, the investigation should be entrusted to a single agency to ensure that both sides of the dispute were examined together. The Centres law officer maintained that an independent investigation was necessary to address concerns about the fairness of the probe and prevent allegations of collusion between the ED and the state government. The Justice Mishra-led Bench observed that Sibal's argument was that the state government could itself transfer the case to the CBI, without requiring an order from the Supreme Court. Responding to the submissions, Raju said the ED had approached the apex court seeking an independent investigation and that leaving the decision to the state government could give rise to further controversy over the manner in which the case was handled. The arguments concluded with the Supreme Court reserving its order on the limited issue. The matter arises from search operations conducted by the ED on January 8 at the I-PAC office and the residence of its co-founder, Pratik Jain, in connection with a money laundering probe linked to an alleged coal smuggling scam. The federal anti-money laundering agency has claimed that Banerjee, accompanied by police personnel and senior officials, entered the premises while the searches were underway and interfered with the investigation. The ED has sought registration of FIRs against Banerjee, the then West Bengal Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar and the then Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma, among others, besides seeking transfer of the probe to the CBI. Banerjee has denied the allegations, maintaining that she visited the premises to retrieve confidential and proprietary data belonging to the Trinamool Congress, which she claimed was linked to the party's electoral strategy. On January 15, the Supreme Court stayed FIRs registered by the West Bengal Police against ED officials in connection with the searches and directed the preservation of CCTV footage and other digital records relating to the premises. Earlier, the apex court had orally observed that alleged interference by a sitting Chief Minister in an ongoing investigation could put democracy in peril.
Maharashtra, New Delhi among top 10 states contributing the most to average AUM in September
Maharashtra remained the largest contributor to mutual fund assets under management (AAUM) in September 2026, with Rs 33.10 lakh crore, followed by Delhi at Rs 7.78 lakh crore. Karnataka, Gujarat and West Bengal were among the other leading contributors.
Former Bengal minister Indranil Sen booked under seven BNS sections in Durga Puja pass scam
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) The Kolkata Police have registered a case under seven sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, against former West Bengal minister and singer-turned-politician Indranil Sen, who was arrested on Wednesday in connection with an alleged fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours. A senior city police official said the charges include 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, police sources said. 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. Our sleuths are currently examining other angles in this massive financial forgery, including the floating and use of shell companies to divert funds, a city police official said. After his arrest on Wednesday evening, Sen was taken to the Kolkata Police headquarters at Lalbazar in central Kolkata, where investigators questioned him on the basis of documents seized during the probe. The interrogation continued until late at night. Police sources claimed that Sen repeatedly attempted to evade uncomfortable questions or gave inconsistent answers during questioning. The allegations are part of the ongoing investigation, and their veracity is yet to be established. 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 city police arrested Sen after he emerged from the ED's Salt Lake office on the northern outskirts of Kolkata on Wednesday afternoon. He had undergone prolonged questioning by officials of the central agency in connection with the case. Investigators are examining the alleged financial transactions, the role of organisations involved and the possible use of shell companies to route funds. The probe is also seeking to establish how the alleged irregularities were carried out and whether other individuals or entities were involved.
Magnitude 5.1 earthquake reported in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Union Minister of Jal Shakti C R Patil chairs 19th meeting of Ganga Flood Control Board in New Delhi
The 19th Meeting of the Ganga Flood Control Board (GFCB) was held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, on Thursday under the chairmanship of Union Minister of Jal Shakti, C R Patil. The meeting was also attended by West Bengal Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari. According to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, the meeting reviewed ongoing initiatives, strengthened interstate coordination and deliberated on emerging approaches for effective flood management. During the meeting, the Jal Shakti Minister launched the Punah Bharan Mobile App, developed by the Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics in collaboration with the National Water Mission. The application aims to facilitate scientific identification of suitable locations for artificial groundwater recharge interventions. The Board deliberated on the revised mandate and restructuring of the Ganga Flood Control Commission (GFCC), which includes strengthening basin-level flood management planning, appraisal o...
'Encouraging anarchic ideas': NDA attacks Naseeruddin Shah over 'Dimagi Naxal' remark
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Thursday came down heavily on Bollywood actor Naseeruddin Shah over his 'Dimagi Naxal' remark, accusing him of encouraging ideas that seek to create anarchy in the country. This comes after the actor launched a scathing attack on the government, sharing a video of himself talking to the camera as he flaunted his badge of 'Dimagi Naxal' and called himself 'proud Dimagi Naxal', a term coined by Prime Minister Modi in his Independence Day address in August. Speaking to IANS, BJP National Spokesperson RP Singh said: The kind of language Naseeruddin Shah has used recently, along with his past statements that have been anti-national and supportive of Pakistan, and the way he has spoken about West Bengal this time, shows how his thinking is encouraging ideas that seek to create anarchy in the country. While acknowledging Shah's craft, BJP MLA Ram Kadam said: We fully respect his art. However, we cannot forget how he praised Pakistan during the release of a book in 2015. How can we forget that Naseeruddin Shah supports Mughal invaders who came to this country, persecuted people, and destroyed temples? You live in India, earn your livelihood and respect here, yet praise Pakistan. He is not 'Dimagi Naxal', rather, he is 'Dimagi Pakistani', Kadam remarked while speaking to IANS. Union Minister and RPI-A chief Ramdas Athawale also acknowledged that Naseeruddin Shah is a good film actor who possesses a social conscience, while adding: He should not have a Naxalite mindset. He has the right to suggest measures to the government for the welfare of society, but he has no right to criticise the BJP. Naxalism has been eliminated from the country, so making such remarks is not right, he told reporters. Meanwhile, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju strongly rebuked the veteran actor, calling him extremely harmful to India's democracy. Reacting to Rijiju's criticism, Congress MP Jebi Mather said: Anybody who says anything the BJP doesn't like, they come up with many terms, like Tukde-Tukde, Urban Naxal... that is their way of functioning. So, nothing is surprising about this. Trinamool Congress-Mamata MP Saugata Roy also backed Naseerudin Shah, saying that the actor has just expressed his views. This (expressing views) is not liked by the BJP; that is why Kiren Rijiju criticised it, he told IANS.
Bengal warns of strict action for firecracker norms violations, urges people to exercise restraint
The West Bengal government is initiating strict measures against firecracker violations during Kali Puja and Diwali. Authorities emphasize the importance of self-awareness and adherence to pollution-control guidelines this festive season. Residents are urged to respect silence zones near sensitive locations like hospitals and old-age homes. Vigilance will be heightened for illegal firecracker sales and safety inspections at firecracker markets.
Indranil Sens financial links with private event management entities also under scanner
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) Besides the alleged involvement of former West Bengal Minister, Indranil Sen, in an alleged fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours, Kolkata Police is also probing the financial links of a corporate entity owned by Sens wife Madhucchanda Sen, with a couple of event management entities when the singer-turned-politician was serving as the Minister of State for Information & Cultural Affairs. Insiders from the city police said that during Sens tenure as minister, an event management tender on behalf of the department worth Rs 53.46 crore was granted to an event management entity GIDI Creation. The administration, according to city police, then overlooked complaints that the tender was granted to that event management entity just because the firm, which did not have sufficient experience in the related field, was owned by a childhood friend of Sen. Later, as per information gathered by the Investigating Officers in the matter, GIDI Creation outsourced the work, for which the tender was granted to another event management entity Third Line Creation, which is completely inoperative now. At that point in time, GIDI Creations had transferred an amount of Rs 50.31 crore to the accounts of Third Line Creation. Subsequently, substantial funds were transferred to the Madhucchanda Sen-owned entity Mass Art Society, through which the UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja passes were sold. At the same time, city police insiders said, the accounts of two other entities namely ISCAPE and Myra, both owned by close relatives of Sen, are also under the scanner of the Investigating Officers. Both the Kolkata Police and Enforcement Directorate (ED) had been conducting parallel investigations in the alleged UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja passes scam. In fact, the cops of Kolkata Police arrested Sen after he came out of EDs Salt Lake office on the northern outskirts of Kolkata on Wednesday afternoon after facing a marathon interrogation by the central agency officials in the matter. Sen will be presented at a lower court in Kolkata later on Thursday and the Public Prosecutor will seek his police custody for further interrogation. The police are trying to track other beneficiaries in the alleged scam.
West Bengal State Health & Family Welfare Samiti (WBSH&FW Samiti) has published the Recruitment 2026 notification for the post of Legal Assistant. The online application process will be conducted from 29 October 2026 to 07 November 2026. Eligible candidates can apply through the official website, wbhealth.gov.in.
Former Minister Indraneel Sen Arrested in Kolkata Over Durga Puja Pass Scam
Indraneel Sen, former West Bengal minister, arrested in connection with a Durga Puja pass scam; further inquiries expected in court. Former Minister Indraneel Sen Arrested in Kolkata Over Durga Puja Pass Scam
Rain lashes Bengal as Cyclone Arnab turns into depression
Kolkata: Rain and squally winds lashed parts of West Bengal on Thursday, October 29, as the very severe cyclonic storm Arnab weakened into a depression and lay centred over south Chhattisgarh and adjoining south Odisha. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the depression is likely to weaken to a well-marked low pressure by Thursday 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 .
Restore previous elected govt in West Bengal, says TMCs Abhishek Banerjee after SCs SIR observations
The Supreme Court said it has not yet adjudicated the legality of the ECIs use of the logical discrepancy category to scrutinise voters' details durins SIR
West Bengal police encounters: the events and the questions they raise | Explained
Since the BJP government came to power in Bengal in May, five people three of them accused of murder and two charged with sexual assault of minors have been killed in police encounters
Oregon city declares October Bengali Heritage and Cultural Month during first Durga Puja celebration
CPI(M) to legally challenge govt's move to bar would-be teachers in Bengal from contesting polls
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) The CPI(M) leadership has decided to challenge any move by the West Bengal government to bar teachers recruited henceforth in the state-run schools from contesting any election for panchayats, municipal bodies, Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies. The challenge by the CPI(M) leadership comes amid an announcement by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Wednesday, saying that a new clause will be introduced in the recruitment rules of the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) barring would-be teachers from contesting polls. A proposal on this count was cleared at a meeting of the state cabinet on Wednesday. However, the Chief Minister, at the same time, made it clear that the clause will not be applicable to those serving teachers who are already elected public representatives. Reacting to the Chief Ministers announcement on this count, former CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member and senior advocate, Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya, said once this proposal is formally implemented in the recruitment rules of the WBSSC, he will take up the matter legally. It will not be easy to suppress the democratic rights of the common people. Any attempt to do this will be opposed legally, said Bhattacharya, also the former Mayor of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). He also said that the decision to bar teachers from contesting the polls is unconstitutional. So let the decision be officially implemented. I will take up the matter at the Calcutta High Court, said Bhattacharya. Even a section of the service teachers has opposed the idea and claimed that they do not subscribe to the Chief Ministers argument that the move to bar would-be teachers from contesting polls is aimed at depoliticising the education sector. Had the Chief Minister been serious about depoliticising the sector, he would have removed political persons from different education-related committees. But that did not happen. The laws and regulations related to education in West Bengal do not prevent schoolteachers from engaging in active politics. If this decision is implemented without changing that law, there will be obstacles from the legal angle, said a headmaster of a state-run higher secondary school, who refused to be named.
Delhi Police bust bank account impersonation syndicate, arrest two; assets worth Rs 2.5 crore seized
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) Delhi Police's Central District has busted a syndicate involved in impersonation of bank account holders and arrested two accused for defrauding bank officials of Rs 22.56 lakh through fraudulent Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) instructions, officials said on Thursday. Assets worth approximately Rs 2.50 crore, including gold jewellery, 101 gold coins, cash and a SUV, have been seized in the present and connected cases. One of the arrested accused was also found to be a proclaimed offender who had been absconding for more than seven years in a forged currency case, police said. The case originated from a complaint filed by the Branch Manager of Bank of India, Rajendra Place, New Delhi. On August 5, a person impersonating Deepak Malhotra, a director associated with multiple corporate entities maintaining accounts at the branch, contacted bank officials. According to the police, the caller initially discussed creating a Fixed Deposit Receipt (FDR) worth Rs 1 crore to gain the officials' confidence. He later contacted them, claiming that the company needed to make a payment but had exhausted its cheque book. He requested that the transaction be processed through email. The accused sent a forged payment request using an email ID closely resembling the company's registered address. The email, bearing a forged company letterhead, instructed the bank to transfer Rs 22,56,922 to another account. When bank officials sought mandatory indemnity documents, the caller pressured them by claiming that similar transactions had been processed earlier and stressing the urgency of the payment. The bank subsequently processed the fraudulent RTGS transfer. An e-FIR was registered at the Cyber Police Station of Central District under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). During the investigation, police traced the defrauded amount to a mule bank account maintained with Bandhan Bank in West Bengal. Technical analysis of telecom records, digital evidence and communication details helped investigators identify the suspects. A police team led by Sub-Inspector Kamlesh Kumar arrested the accused, identified as Vinay Kumar Yadav, 36, a resident of Loni in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, and Anil Kumar Sehgal, 65, a resident of Noida. The investigation revealed that the accused used forged company letterheads, deceptive email IDs, social engineering and mule accounts to target corporate bank transactions. The money was subsequently diverted into other assets, including gold purchased from a jeweller in West Bengal. Police said both accused had previous criminal involvement in financial fraud cases across several locations, including Ghaziabad, Saharanpur, Ayodhya and Faridabad. They allegedly became acquainted while in jail and had previously been associated with cheque-related frauds involving so-called magic pens. The arrests have also helped police work out six similar cases registered in Gurugram, Palwal and Delhi, involving fraud amounts ranging from Rs 16.65 lakh to Rs 2.98 crore, along with an attempted fraud of Rs 88 lakh.
TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee raised concerns about the electoral legitimacy of the current BJP government in West Bengal. He urged the Supreme Court to restore the previous government and conduct fresh elections within six months. The Supreme Court is evaluating the Election Commission's handling of electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision exercise. Banerjee emphasized the need to reinstate all eligible voters excluded from the rolls.
Arrested ex-Bengal Minister Indranil Sen to be produced in court today
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 29 (IANS) Former West Bengal Minister Indranil Sen, who has been arrested by Kolkata Police in connection with an alleged fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours, will be presented at a lower court on Thursday, and the public prosecutor will seek his police custody for further interrogation. He was arrested on Wednesday evening. An insider from the city police said that first he will be taken for medical examination from the Kolkata Police headquarters, and thereafter he will be presented at the city court. A detailed interrogation of the former state minister is necessary to know about other beneficiaries not just in the fake Durga Puja pass scam, but also in other cases of financial irregularities where he got involved during his tenure as a member of the state cabinet during the previous regime. Hence, the public prosecutor will seek his custody, said an insider of the city police associated with the investigation against Sen. In fact, immediately after his arrest, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari gave a subtle hint when he said that other influential persons who were beneficiaries in the alleged scams in which Sen had been accused would not be spared. The CM also indirectly targeted his predecessor and the former West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, without directly naming the latter. Sen made his fortune taking advantage of his ministerial position and using his proximity to the former West Bengal Chief Minister. Sen and the former Chief Minister used to sing duets in government programmes. Surely, Sen is not the only one in the previous cabinet who had made his fortune using the ministerial position. The share surely had reached the higher levels. They will not be spared either. Just wait and watch, CM Adhikari said, reacting to Sens arrest. Kolkata Police and Enforcement Directorate (ED) were conducting parallel probes into the alleged fake Durga Puja pass scam. Sen was arrested on Wednesday evening as he came out of the EDs Salt Lake office in the northern outskirts of Kolkata after facing a marathon interrogation in the matter. Earlier this month, the ED issued a statement naming former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in connection with a transaction involving Sen-owned Octave Records. According to the agency, nearly Rs 30 lakh was allegedly transferred from the companys accounts to Banerjee through banking channels. Sen, however, maintained that the payment was made as royalty. Separately, a judicial inquiry commission constituted by the state government to investigate alleged institutional corruption during the previous Trinamool Congress regime has initiated an inquiry involving Sen. The commission is examining alleged multi-crore irregularities in the tendering process of the states Information and Cultural Affairs Department, where Sen had served as Minister of State. The inquiry is separate from the money laundering investigation being conducted by the ED
West Bengal cabinet approves new industry policy to attract investments
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to announce details on November 5 along with farmer assistance transfers under state scheme
