Mamata Banerjee govt favoured a single minority community: Bengal CM
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 15 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress and his predecessor Mamata Banerjee on Sunday, accusing the former administration of pampering only one specific minority community while ignoring others. Speaking at a Sikh community event ahead of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Adhikari said the previous government viewed minorities through a single lens. For the Trinamool Congress and the former Chief Minister, only one particular community represented the entire minority community. But Sikhs, Jains and Parsis are also part of the minority community, Adhikari told reporters. Praising the Sikh community for their nationalist sentiments, Adhikari asserted that his administration treats all religious minorities equally. He added that the previous regime focused exclusively on Muslims under the banner of minority welfare. The Trinamool Congress strongly rejected the allegations. A party spokesperson defended Mamata Banerjee's tenure, stating that development proposals for the Sikh community are well-documented in state records. Mamata Banerjee always believed in the unity of all religions and followed that path. She never indulged in divisive politics, as is being done by her successor, the Trinamool leader said. Political analysts note that Adhikari's remarks reflect the Bharatiya Janata Party's broader narrative accusing the opposition of appeasement politics. In the recent assembly elections, Adhikari defeated Mamata Banerjee by a margin of over 15,000 votes in the Bhabanipur constituency, an area with a substantial population of Sikh and Jain voters who strongly supported his campaign.
Bengal BJP Worker Dies After Clash With Party Colleagues
A BJP worker, Arup Saha, died in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district after allegedly being assaulted by fellow party members. The incident occurred when Saha intervened after his wife, a BJP functionary, was verbally abused for protesting an assault on a local businessman. His wife alleges former TMC members who joined BJP were responsible for the attack.
Indian Railways: 38 Trains Cancelled in West Bengal on November 15, Two Services to Face Delays
November 15, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): Train passengers in West Bengal may face travel disruptions on November 15 as Eastern Railway has cancelled 38 local and passenger trains in Indian Railways: 38 Trains Cancelled in West Bengal on November 15, Two Services to Face Delays
Row Over Order To Shut Meat Shops In West Bengal's Rampurhat For Chhath Puja
The municipal body chairman denied the decision was aimed against any community. He said it was taken keeping in mind the religious sentiments associated with Chhath Puja
Minorities have been underrepresented in Bengal Assembly
Despite its reputation as a progressive State, women and Muslims have sparsely held power in West Bengal
Minorities have been underrepresented in Bengal Assembly
Despite its reputation as a progressive State, women and Muslims have sparsely held power in West Bengal
TMC government considered only Muslims as minority: Bengal CM
Minority does not mean a particular community. Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains are also [religious] minorities. The previous TMC government considered only Muslims as a minority, says West Bengal CM
Cyclone Threat: IMD Predicts Heavy Rain In South Bengal, Thunderstorms In Kolkata
A cyclonic storm forming over the south Bay of Bengal will bring heavy rain to some districts of West Bengal from November 19 to 21, the India Meteorological Department said on Sunday. The weather system, which lay over the southeast and
Delhi Minister Criticizes Mamata Banerjees Leadership, Praises BJPs Changes in West Bengal
Manjinder Singh Sirsa criticizes Mamata Banerjees governance while praising the BJPs impact on religious freedoms in West Bengal. Delhi Minister Criticizes Mamata Banerjees Leadership, Praises BJPs Changes in West Bengal
Man Held In Delhi For Kolkata Murder Over Marriage Demand
A 26-year-old man, Dharamvir Kumar, wanted for the murder of a woman in Kolkata, was arrested in Delhi near Anand Vihar ISBT. He allegedly strangled the victim, whom he met on an online gaming platform, after she insisted on marriage. The arrest was a result of a joint operation between Delhi and West Bengal Police.
Mamata regime was more like Bangladesh govt, says Manjinder Sirsa in Bengal
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 15 (IANS) Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, who is currently on a visit to West Bengal, on Sunday took a jibe at the previous Mamata Banerjee-led government in the state, saying that it functioned more like the government of Bangladesh. Speaking to IANS, Sirsa said, The previous government under Mamata Banerjee was more like the government of Bangladesh. It was marked by appeasement, dynastic politics and looting. One family looted Bengal with both hands. That is why the people here brought about a change. According to him, the BJP government is now bringing changes into people's lives in Bengal. Those involved in extortion are being sent to jail, and no one is being spared. The biggest thing is that the dignity of the people of Bengal has been restored, he asserted. Sirsa added that there has been a major check on incidents that hurt people's religious sentiments. Today, everyone can celebrate their religious occasions freely. Currently, so many people, mothers and sisters, are celebrating the Chhath Puja here, which had become a crime under the regime of the previous Mamata government, he said. Meanwhile, Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh alleged that corruption took place across various Central government schemes during the previous Trinamool Congress regime. Around 12,500 beneficiaries who received Rs 1,20,000 each under the Awas Yojana ('Banglar Bari') scheme were found to be ineligible. We have issued letters seeking the recovery of the funds. If they fail to return the money, legal action will be taken, he warned. Ghosh also hit out at Trinamool Congress-Mamata MP Abhishek Banerjee after the latter accused the police of filing fresh FIRs against him. At that time (previous regime), the police used to work on their orders. They (party leaders) encroached upon and occupied the road. Now, as the police are taking action against it, they are accusing the force of working on the BJP's orders. If you have a complaint against anyone, go ahead and file it, he told reporters. On Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's visit to a hospital to meet police personnel who sustained gunshot injuries, the Bengal Minister said, For many years, atrocities were being committed against the police in Bengal due to which the morale of the police was low. That is why law and order was shaky. If the police do not remain safe, do not get respect, and do not have the authority to work, then how will the administration function properly? Our government has given a free hand to the police. Those still attempting to intimidate the police won't be spared, he stated.
GSI puts Lonar meteorite crater on global geological heritage map
West Bengals Minister Dilip Ghosh counters Abhishek Banerjees claims, asserting widespread complaints against the TMC leader and defending police actions. Minister Dilip Ghosh Responds to Abhishek Banerjees Allegations, Claims Complaints Against Him Are Widespread
Pakyong Police Recover 70% of Stolen Property in Nimtar Theft Case, Accused Arrested
Pakyong, November 14: Pakyongs Sikkim Police have recovered approximately 70 per cent of the stolen property in connection with the Nimtar theft case following the arrest of a 24-year-old accused and a search operation conducted in Siliguri, West Bengal. The accused, identified as Rajeev Sundas alias Tupac, a resident of Jubilee Line, Singtam, was arrested [] The post Pakyong Police Recover 70% of Stolen Property in Nimtar Theft Case, Accused Arrested appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
U-19 boys team of Kol school wins CBSE natl chess tourney
Majerhat death: Cops write to Port for repairs
Worry over state school teachers SSR duty in exam time
Selections from Tuesday but Madhyamik, Higher Secondary dates not out yet
KMC panel meets after 8 months, clears 15 realty projects
Baranagar murder: Lens on PUBG money row
Pets yet to recover from trauma: Vets
Insulin gap puts Bengals diabetics at health risks
BJP factions fight over ghat control
Maidan Market relocation complete after 3.5-yr wait
After Chorbagan stampede, cops go all out to manage Chhath crowds
Lake & Subhas Sarobar off-limits, preps enter last lap elsewhere
Tala crisis: Water pressure still low in N Kol wards
Rain relief fades, Kol AQI slips to moderate zone
Police book app cab passenger, driver for Garia door crash
85-year-old falls prey to card swap fraud at Patuli ATM
HC clears decks for reopening 1,000 liquor shops in state
Opposition parties, civil rights groups come together to save voters rights in West Bengal
The new platform calls for a mass convention in Kolkata on November 21, invites other parties and people whose names were unlawfully removed from electoral rolls to take part
TMC, CPM & Cong share stage with civil society orgs against SIR deletions
CM visits injured constable, says suspect would be arrested soon
West Bengal Minister Calls for Expulsion of CPI(M) Leader Mohammad Salim
West Bengal Minister Arjun Singh labels CPI(M) leader Mohammad Salim as anti-national, urging his removal from the country. West Bengal Minister Calls for Expulsion of CPI(M) Leader Mohammad Salim
West Bengal: Abhishek Faces Cops' Grilling For Online Post
But I respect the law of this country and cooperated with the police like earlier: Diamond Harbour Trinamul Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee
Abhishek Banerjees Aide Claims Safety in Custody Amid Murder Allegations
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh claims TMC aide Sumit Roy is only safe in custody, fearing murder upon release due to sensitive information. Abhishek Banerjees Aide Claims Safety in Custody Amid Murder Allegations
West Bengal Extends Deadline for 7th Pay Commission Recommendations
West Bengal government extends the deadline for submitting recommendations to the 7th Pay Commission to November 30, amid ongoing confusion. West Bengal Extends Deadline for 7th Pay Commission Recommendations
Abhishek Banerjee Claims Police Harassment with False Cases
Abhishek Banerjee alleges West Bengal police are filing false cases against him, following a lengthy questioning related to a controversial social media post. Abhishek Banerjee Claims Police Harassment with False Cases
BJP to Assess Impact of Anti-SIR Protests Across West Bengals 294 Assembly Seats
The BJP plans to evaluate the effects of anti-SIR protests across all 294 assembly constituencies in West Bengal. BJP to Assess Impact of Anti-SIR Protests Across West Bengals 294 Assembly Seats
WBPDCL Technician Apprentice Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 60 Posts
The West Bengal Power Development Corporation Limited (WBPDCL) has invited online applications for 60 Technician Apprentice posts. Applications can be submitted at wbpdcl.co.in from 20 November 2026 to 10 December 2026.
Drink at home, not on streets: Bengal minister Umesh Rai warns drunk troublemakers
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) A video purportedly showing West Bengal Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Umesh Rai warning anti-social elements against creating disturbances under the influence of alcohol has gone viral on social media. However, IANS India could not independently verify the authenticity of the video and cannot vouch for its contents. According to the video, Rai, who represents the Howrah Uttar Assembly constituency, has warned that anyone found disturbing public order after consuming alcohol or engaging in activities that threaten women's safety would face stringent action. He reportedly went a step further, saying that anyone accused of molesting a woman, if the allegation is established through an investigation, would be driven out of the area. The minister's remarks, which came to light on Saturday, were reportedly made during a public meeting on Friday, where he addressed concerns over public safety and disturbances caused by intoxicated people in different parts of Howrah. Drawing a distinction between personal freedom and public nuisance, Rai said he had no objection to people consuming alcohol at their homes, clubs, rooftops or designated places, provided they did not create trouble for others. Who is drinking and where he is drinking alcohol is completely his personal matter. I have no objection if someone drinks alcohol at his own expense in a club, at home, on a rooftop or at a specific place. The good or bad of one's health is a personal responsibility of a person. But if a person drinks alcohol and goes out on the streets and creates ruckus and hooliganism, it will not be tolerated in any way, the minister said, according to the video. Women's safety featured prominently in his address, with the minister urging residents, particularly women, to report incidents of harassment and molestation directly to him. Issuing a stern warning to potential offenders, Rai reportedly said that if a woman complained of molestation and an investigation established the allegation, the accused would face such stringent action that he would be forced to leave the locality. The minister's remarks come amid complaints from residents about disturbances allegedly caused by people consuming alcohol in public places, particularly during the evening hours, in several neighbourhoods of the industrial town. His statement has received support from several residents of North Howrah, with many welcoming his warning against public nuisance and offences targeting women. Political observers believe the minister's intervention is aimed at addressing public concerns over law and order and strengthening confidence among residents. However, the impact of the warning on street-level disturbances and women's safety remains to be seen.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) The West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided to conduct an Assembly constituency-wise assessment of the impact of the nationwide movement launched by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and Opposition parties against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The party's state leadership has drawn up a plan to deploy special review teams in all 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal. Each team will interact with at least 200 people representing different financial, professional, social, ethnic and religious backgrounds to gauge public opinion on the anti-SIR campaign. Apart from assessing the public response to the nationwide protests, the teams will also undertake a counter-campaign to present the BJP's position on the electoral roll revision and counter the arguments being raised by the CJP and opposition parties. The CJP-Opposition ploy to create chaos and anarchy in the country will be exposed before the general public through leaflets and arguments. This exercise will be an extension of the recent 'Save Democracy, Eliminate Anarchy' rallies organised in different parts of the state against the anti-SIR movement, a member of the BJP's state committee said. According to the party leader, the exercise will be conducted in several stages. In the first phase, the teams will identify at least 200 individuals in each Assembly constituency, ensuring representation from different economic, professional, social, ethnic and religious groups. In the next phase, members of the teams will visit the identified individuals at their homes and interact with them. Initially, they will focus on listening to their views on the nationwide anti-SIR campaign without attempting to influence their opinions. Only after listening to their concerns and understanding their perceptions will the team members initiate the counter-campaign by explaining the party's position on the issue, the BJP leader said. The outreach programme will cover people from different walks of life, including workers, farmers, lawyers, teachers, doctors and other professionals. The party also intends to engage representatives of various communities and local opinion makers to obtain a wider understanding of public sentiment. The BJP leadership plans to compile the feedback gathered from all 294 Assembly constituencies into a comprehensive report and forward it to the party's central leadership. The exercise is expected to help the party assess the extent to which the opposition's campaign against the SIR has influenced public opinion in West Bengal and formulate its political response accordingly.
Lights, camera, Ganguly: Inside a family that lives cinema
5,000 hospitals on common cashless platform for all insurers: GIC
Siliguri, November 14: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang attended the MP Deusi-Bhailo Mahotsav at Milan More, Champasari, in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, emphasising the importance of preserving traditional languages, customs and cultural heritage while strengthening unity and brotherhood among communities. The cultural celebration was organised through the initiative of Darjeeling Member of [] The post Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Attends MP Deusi-Bhailo Mahotsav at Milan More, Calls for Preservation of Cultural Heritage appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
File FIR against those who tarnish partys image says Bengal BJP chief
BJP has reached here (came to power) by keeping them out. BJP has no need to touch them, West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said, adding that doors of the party are closed for outsiders.
File FIR against those who tarnish partys image says Bengal BJP chief
BJP has reached here (came to power) by keeping them out. BJP has no need to touch them, West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said, adding that doors of the party are closed for outsiders.
Why Indians behave better at sacred sites
The tranquil and indescribably beautiful environs of Kamarpukur and Joyrambati, the birthplaces of Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa and Maa Sarada Devi in the verdant plains of West Bengal, are truly balms for the soul. Green-gold vistas of ripening rice fields criss-crossed by a myriad of small rivers and dotted with distant sleepy hamlets greeted the eye as a friend and I headed there from Kolkata. And the early morning autumn sun cast a golden, almost divine glow.It was a world away from the pollution-spewing trucks and buses, factories and warehouses that crowd the suburbs of Kolkata beyond the graceful Vidyasagar Setu arching over the Hooghly. Once the cacophony of the Durgapur Expressway was left behind, there was a perceptible change in mood. Anyone who lives in a frenetic big city these days would vouch that stress is endemic and heading out, away from the madding crowds, leads to an instant lowering of tension.And peace is the overwhelming feeling upon entering the impeccably maintained compounds in both villages that contain not only the quaintly thatched huts where the two elevated souls came into this world, but also prayer halls, offices, bhog areas, dispensaries, guesthouses and flower-filled gardens. Given that thousands - exceeding 20,000 on important days - visit Kamarpukur and Joyrambati daily and stay on for bhog prasad, the compounds' serenity is hard to believe.And their cleanliness stuns. Forget jhalmuri packets, tissue papers or plastic water bottles, not even fallen leaves or dust mar the pathways and gardens. It is not as if there are armies of sweepers on hand to pick up detritus either; visitors are simply more mindful while on the premises. How come? After all Indians these days are notorious for being loud, littering gits, on par with British lager louts. It seems that it all depends on whether places inspire respect and restraint.In the expansive hallowed campuses of Kamarpukur and Joyrambati, these same people - Indians - did not talk loudly; they did not try to scratch their initials on pillars; they did not drape themselves on walls or amid the flowers to take selfies; they did not throw trash into the ponds; and they did not let their children turn into screeching, high-speed, wrecking balls. Polite attendants firmly told the few infringers to abide by the rules. And they all willingly complied.I have seen a similar all-pervasive calm at the Belur Math of the Ramakrishna Mission near Kolkata, the Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry and the Golden Temple in Amritsar, thousands of miles apart. There are more such places around India where desi visitors are anything but the kind of Ugly Indian Tourist that locals complain about from Goa to Gangtok, Kashmir to Kanyakumari. That just begs the question why Indians are so badly behaved in many other places.An overwhelming majority of those who come to Kamarpukur and Joyrambati are devotees. They, therefore, know the sanctity of those places and behave accordingly. The same is true of the sacred precincts at Belur, Pondicherry and Amritsar. But why is the same courtesy not extended to all places they visit? Do only the divine merit courtesy, cleanliness and calm? The public's behaviour at these places show that Indians can be model visitors when we want to be.At Kamarpukur and Joyrambati it is hard to be anything but ideal visitors, though. There's something about the cumulative effect of their soothing tranquillity broken only by birdsong and trees rustling in the autumn breeze, the fresh flowers artfully arranged around the statues of Sri Ramkrishna and Maa Sarada Devi, and the smiling sanyasis telling stories of the divine couple's limitless humanity and humbleness... On the journey back to Kolkata, our hearts were full.
Indonesian woman held at Indo-Nepal border: UP cops to probe Kol links
Kol Yoga instructor killed over PUBG romance: Cops
Met: Temp likely to dip marginally this weekend
NKDA guard electrocuted while operating water pump at New Town clock tower
Bank manager accused in Rs 2.7 crore fraud case
Kolkata Police files charge sheet in Free School Street hotel fire case
Bihari organisations in city urge devotees to follow firework rules
Death reignites safety outcry on industrial transit corridor
12-year-old class 6 student cycling home from tuition crushed under truck in Majerhat
Minister bats for stricter wetland norms, rainwater conservation
After 7-month freeze, KMC panel to review 15 big realty projects
Tala water crisis may require full-day Palta closure
Bengal 5th in studies linking air pollution to health risks
Filmmaker Ronny Sen scales SRFTI wall for counter workshop; alumni panel records testimonies
Father, son found dead at Nagerbazar flat
Class 12 boy ends life on video call, girlfriend follows suit
Rs 17,000 for one way: Airfares soar on Bihar-Jkhand sector
Fresh FIR registered against Abhishek Banerjee; summons served for questioning on Nov 20
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) A fresh First Information Report (FIR) was registered on Friday against Trinamool Congress (TMC) National General Secretary and Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha MP Abhishek Banerjee at the Girish Park Police Station in North Kolkata, accusing him of making derogatory remarks and threatening a serving Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. A notice summoning Banerjee for questioning was served at his residence late Friday evening, directing him to appear at the Girish Park Police Station by 12 noon on November 20. According to police sources, the case was registered based on a complaint lodged by a local woman who alleged that Banerjee, nephew of former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, had obstructed police functioning by issuing threats and making derogatory comments against a serving IPS officer and other police personnel in the state. The controversy stems from remarks made by the Diamond Harbour MP last month regarding state police officials, including West Midnapore Superintendent of Police Papia Sultana, without explicitly naming them. During a public interaction caught on camera last month, Banerjee had warned that the names of allegedly biased police officers were being noted and that necessary action would be taken against them in the future. He had also made personal remarks directed at the West Midnapore SP without naming her, alleging that she was framing TMC leaders and workers in false cases to appease Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. There was no immediate reaction from Banerjee or the Trinamool Congress leadership regarding the fresh FIR and summons at the time of filing this report.
Kolkata Durga Puja pass scam: Court extends police custody of mass art executive till Nov 17
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) A lower court in Kolkata on Friday extended till November 17 the police custody of Dhrubojyoti Basu, alias Subho, a top executive of Mass Art, the corporate entity through which fake UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja passes were allegedly sold. Basu was arrested on November 4 and remanded to police custody until Friday by the same court on November 5. Following a hearing on Friday afternoon, the court extended his remand for four more days. During the proceedings, Basu's counsel did not move a bail petition, informing the court instead that his client was willing to cooperate with the ongoing police investigation. Seeking an extension of custody until November 18, the public prosecutor submitted that investigators had conducted searches at multiple locations, including Basu's office, during his initial remand. A total of 21 documents were seized. The investigating officers have received sufficient evidence. After questioning Dhrubojyoti, the names of some organisations have surfaced, which need to be investigated, the prosecutor told the court. Mass Art is owned by Madhuchhanda Sen, the wife of former West Bengal Tourism and Information & Cultural Affairs Minister Indranil Sen. The singer-turned-politician was arrested by the Kolkata Police on October 28 for his alleged involvement in the fake pass racket and is currently remanded in judicial custody. Both his wife and daughter, Avery Sen, have also been questioned by city police in connection with the probe. Alongside the Kolkata Police investigation, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is conducting a parallel money laundering probe against the former minister. Sen was arrested by city police on the evening of October 28 immediately after exiting the ED's Salt Lake office following hours of interrogation by central agency officials. The police investigation was initiated based on an FIR registered at the Bowbazar Police Station following a complaint lodged by Joydeep Mukherjee, who accused Sen and his associates of orchestrating the scam. Meanwhile, Mukherjee's counsel on Friday moved a plea before the same court seeking police protection for his client, alleging that the complainant has been receiving death threats since Sen's arrest. The court has sought a report from the police on the matter.
Constable Shot In Birbhum, Accused Flees
A police constable was injured after being shot in the leg by an accused during an arrest attempt in West Bengal's Birbhum district on Friday. The accused managed to flee the scene, and an investigation is currently underway.
Once Hungry Herself, Kajuli Now Feeds Nearly 100 People Every Day Across West Bengal
After experiencing childhood hunger and personal hardships, Kajuli Biswas turned her struggles into a mission to provide daily meals to nearly 100 people in West Bengal.
Tejashwi Yadav targets Samrat Choudhary govt over crime, corruption and land grabbing in Bihar
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 13 (IANS) Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Working President and Bihar's Leader of Opposition (LoP), Tejashwi Yadav, on Friday launched a fresh attack on the Samrat Choudhary-led NDA government, accusing it of failing to control crime, corruption and land grabbing in the state. In a detailed post on social media platform X, Tejashwi alleged that ruling NDA legislators and Ministers were themselves involved in criminal activities and exploiting the public. Targeting Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, the LoP alleged that the protection extended by those in power had emboldened legislators and Ministers to indulge in criminal activities. He claimed that government land encroachment, murder of officials, corruption, extortion, robbery and dacoity were increasing rapidly in Bihar. There is effectively no government left in Bihar, Tejashwi remarked, alleging that NDA MLAs were now involved in looting the public and that corruption and crime had crossed all limits. He also questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the allegations against NDA legislators, asking them to explain their silence. Tejashwi cited several incidents to substantiate his allegations, including a controversy over the alleged encroachment of government and public land in the Tardih block of Darbhanga district. He accused BJP MLA Maithili Thakur and her father, Ramesh Thakur, of illegally occupying government land allegedly worth several hundred crore rupees, besides public roads, community funeral and ritual grounds, and private plots. The RJD leader claimed that the administration had verified complaints regarding the alleged encroachments. He also took a swipe at the BJP legislator over the issue. Referring to a major robbery in Darbhanga, Tejashwi alleged that a driver working for a bullion trader from West Bengal was shot at and around 62 kg of silver, along with cash, was looted. He claimed that Vishal Mahaseth, who has been arrested or named as an accused in the case, had links with certain Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders. He questioned why the Bihar government and NDA leaders had not responded to the incident. Tejashwi also raised the issue of alleged arms and ammunition smuggling in Bihar. He claimed that 44,000 live cartridges had been recovered from individuals associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He also alleged that the smuggling network had trafficked several tonnes of bombs and ammunition. Targeting legislators of Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas, Tejashwi accused the party's Belsand MLA of grabbing land worth crores of rupees in Muzaffarpur and Sitamarhi districts. According to him, police records indicate that a gang of around 50 people was operating in the area to carry out land grabbing and extortion. He also alleged that an LJP-Ram Vilas MLA's name had surfaced in connection with the murder of the executive officer of the Dehri-Dalmianagar Municipal Council in Rohtas district. Citing allegations made by the deceased officer's wife, Tejashwi claimed that the murder was linked to the non-payment of a commission. He further accused an LJP-Ram Vilas MLA in Bhagalpur of forcibly occupying land after firing 10 rounds. The RJD leader also raised allegations involving a Bihar government Minister. He claimed that an incident of alleged misconduct involving a young woman had taken place at a five-star hotel in Delhi and that a financial transaction was subsequently made to suppress the matter. Linking these allegations to what he described as the NDA government's actics, character and true face, Tejashwi questioned the functioning of the state administration and accused the ruling coalition of failing to ensure accountability. Through his social media post, the RJD leader sought to put the NDA government on the defensive by citing a series of alleged incidents involving BJP and LJP-Ram Vilas leaders. The allegations, however, remain claims made by Tejashwi, and responses from the leaders concerned and the state government are awaited.
Odisha CM highlights Kudumi heritage, reaffirms commitment to communitys development
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Nov 13 (IANS) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday lauded the Kudumi communitys ancient traditions, hard work and love for nature, and assured it of the state governments firm commitment to its economic, social and cultural development. CM Majhi made the remarks while addressing a mega cultural programme of the Kudumi community, National Bandana Parab-2026, organised in Mayurbhanj district on Friday. On the auspicious occasion, the Chief Minister extended his warm greetings and congratulations to all members of the Kudumi community. He reaffirmed the government's firm commitment to the social, economic, educational and cultural development of the Kudumi community as part of the State's inclusive development model. Speaking on the occasion, Majhi said, Bandana is not merely a festival but a living poem of the deep bond between nature, the soil, cattle wealth and human relationships. This symbol of nature worship, reverence for agrarian culture and devotion to the soil is the very soul of our culture. He further said the Kudumi community are son of the soil, and their dedication and hard work in making the land fertile and productive offered valuable lessons for society. The unique way in which this community worships nature as a mother and lives in harmony with trees and plants, hills, rivers and streams, and the animal kingdom offers a guiding example for the entire human society, Majhi noted. Praising the bond between the Santhal and Kudumi communities in the Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj regions, the Chief Minister said brotherhood has always occupied a place of prominence in tribal culture. Recalling his childhood days growing up alongside Kudumi families in his village, he shared fond memories of visiting Dhenguan, a traditional community procession or ritual associated with the Bandana festival and enjoying traditional pithas (rice cakes). He also acknowledged the significant role played by members of the Kudumi community as his associates in the political sphere. The Chief Minister highlighted the Kudumi communitys history and social contributions, noting that it is spread across Odisha, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat and Maharashtra. He said Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar emerged as the principal settlements of the community after the formation of the separate Odisha province, while Baripada came to be known as the unofficial capital of Odisha's Kudumi community. Describing the Kudumis as self-respecting, loyal and patriotic, he said the community believes in overcoming challenges through hard work and has made its mark in agriculture, trade and other professions. He also referred to the community's long-standing demands for ST status and inclusion of Kudumali in the Constitutions Eighth Schedule.
Bengal special summary revision draft roll to be out on Nov 23
Kolkata: The Election Commission will publish the draft electoral rolls for West Bengal on November 23, with the final voters list scheduled to be released on January 16, 2027, as part of a Special Summary Revision (SSR), a statement said on Friday, November 13. The revision will be conducted with January 1, 2027, as the 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 .
The Election Commission of India (ECI) will publish the draft electoral rolls for West Bengal on November 23, 2026, with the final voters list scheduled for release on January 16, 2027, as part of its Special Summary Revision (SSR) exercise. According to an official statement issued by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) [] The post West Bengal Draft Voter List to Be Published on November 23, Final Electoral Rolls on 16 January 2027 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Amit Shah to chair 28th meeting of Eastern Zonal Council in Odisha on November 29
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to chair the 28th meeting of the Eastern Zonal Council in Odisha on November 29, covering a wide range of issues of national importance such as implementation of Fast Track Special Courts for speedy trial and speedy disposal of rape cases against women and children, among others. Issues like brick-and-mortar banking facilities within the designated radius of each village, implementation of Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112) and various issues of common interest at the regional level, including nutrition, education, health, power, urban planning and strengthening of cooperative systems, are also learnt to be discussed in the day-long meeting. The Eastern Zonal Council comprises the states of Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. The meeting is learnt to be attended by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari...
CID to probe fake beneficiaries, recommenders in ex-Trinamool govt housing scheme: CM Adhikari
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the state police will investigate the fake beneficiaries and their recommenders in the 'West Bengal Awas Yojana', the state governments own housing scheme during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress regime, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Friday. The scheme was named Banglar Bari during the previous Trinamool Congress regime, which was renamed 'West Bengal Awas Yojana' after the new BJP-ruled state government led by Adhikari took over. The SIT announcement was made by CM Adhikari in the afternoon at the state secretariat of Nabanna in a programme on the distribution of financial assistance provided to over seven lakh genuine beneficiaries of West Bengal Awas Yojana. Already, 57,000 fake beneficiaries have been identified, and all of them will be punished. So far, 1,000 fake beneficiaries have returned the money they received. I am asking those who are not the rightful and genuine recipients to return the money. We will form an SIT of the CID to investigate the matter. If anyone at the official level is involved in recommending the fake beneficiaries, departmental action will be taken against them, the Chief Minister said. He also said that an instalment of Rs 60,000 under the West Bengal Awas Yojana will be deposited in the accounts of seven lakh beneficiaries on Friday. Earlier, 10 lakh beneficiaries received the second instalment of housing, CM Adhikari said. He also launched a scathing attack against the previous ruling dispensation for carrying out false propaganda before the Assembly election earlier this year, that all welfare schemes in the state would be stopped if the BJP came to power. The previous ruling party claimed that if the government changed, all welfare schemes in the state would be stopped. We have proved that it is false. We do not give money based on caste, religion, or community. We want those who left their housework half-done to be able to complete it. The previous government claimed that we will not form a new pay commission or give dearness allowances to state government employees. We have proved that wrong, the Chief Minister said. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister also claimed that the District Magistrates have been directed to ensure that those who build houses with West Bengal Awas Yojana funds do not have to spend more than Rs 1,200 to purchase sand.
Forming fact-finding panel by agitating students unauthorised, aimed at fomenting tension: SRFTI
The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, since September 27, has been investigated by a special investigation team constituted by the West Bengal government
West Bengal Pilgrim Bus Collides with Truck in Jajpur, Several Hurt
Nine passengers sustained injuriestwo of them criticallyafter a tourist bus carrying approximately 55 pilgrims from West Bengal collided with a stationary truck in Odishas Jajpur district early Friday morning. The mishap occurred on the Badachana Bridge along National Highway-16 (NH-16), under the jurisdiction of the Badachana police station. According to preliminary reports, the ill-fated bus, [] The post West Bengal Pilgrim Bus Collides with Truck in Jajpur, Several Hurt appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
EBITDA rises 59.79% to 26.69 Cr, powered by robust demand for lightweight 22K and 18K gold jewellery and an expanding B2B partner network Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], November 13: Pushpa
Following the bulldozer action at Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee's residence, West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Friday asserted that any form of illegal encroachment was being removed, adding that Banerjee was ot intentionally targeted. The West Bengal minister also flagged the shortage of roads and footpaths in Kolkata, and said that illegal constructions are being demolished in many places. Speaking to ANI, he said, Any form of illegal encroachment is being removed. There is a shortage of roads and footpaths in Kolkata; if someone constructs a building in such areas, it causes inconvenience to the general public. This is happening everywhere
The Calcutta High Court on Thursday took strong exception to remarks made by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee allegedly suggesting that a section of the judiciary was acting under the influence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Justice Krishna Rao, while hearing Banerjees petition challenging the West Bengal governments decision to downgrade his security [] The post Name the judges who are with BJP: Calcutta High Court questions Abhishek Banerjee over remarks against Judiciary appeared first on India Legal .
Bulldozer Action Outside Abhishek Banerjees Home Sparks Controversy in Kolkata
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh defends bulldozer action against illegal constructions, stating its a broader issue beyond Abhishek Banerjee. Bulldozer Action Outside Abhishek Banerjees Home Sparks Controversy in Kolkata
Kolkata Police file chargesheet in hotel fire case, name three
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) Kolkata Police informed on Friday that their investigating team probing the devastating fire at Hotel Shikha Inn on Mirza Ghalib Street, which killed nine people, including a child, on the intervening night of August 18 and 19, had submitted the chargesheet in the case. In the chargesheet filed at a lower court in Kolkata on Thursday, three persons have been named. The first name in the chargesheet is Bireshwar Moitra, the original owner of the hotel Shikha Inn, where the fire tragedy happened. The second person named in the chargesheet is Abu Zafar, who took the hotel on lease from Moitra. The third person named in the chargesheet is Abus wife, Saba Zafar, who was the last to be arrested by the city police last month after she had been absconding since the tragedy took place. The chargesheet contains recorded statements of 90 witnesses, said a city police official. The accused have been charged under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, relating to involuntary murder, attempted involuntary murder, endangering life and conspiracy. A forensic report has also been submitted along with it. The 350-page chargesheet also highlights the horror of the incident. The chargesheet mentions how the originally bigger hotel rooms were demolished and converted into multiple smaller rooms. Almost every room had AC. Installing so many ACs without following any rules resulted in an overload of electricity. The fire spread from the board and started consuming the rooms, the city police officer said. The chargesheet also stated that the building, which housed several hotels, including Shikha Inn, was actually a residential complex that was illegally converted into a hotel later, without the permission of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and the West Bengal Fire Services Department authorities. The fire broke out on the third floor of the building housing Hotel Shikha Inn and several other lodges. The hotel rooms quickly filled with thick smoke, causing most of the nine victims to die of suffocation. The majority of those who lost their lives were Bangladeshi nationals visiting Kolkata for medical treatment. The original hotel owner, Bireshwar Moitra, initially fled after the incident but was arrested shortly after at his residence in Behala, on Kolkata's southern outskirts. During interrogation, he disclosed that he had leased the hotel to Abu Zafar and his wife, Saba Zafar, for a monthly rent of Rs 40,000. While police arrested Abu shortly after, Saba managed to evade capture until her arrest on October 28.
Bengal man arrested in Delhi in Anjali Sau death case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) West Bengal Police have arrested the boyfriend of 26-year-old Anjali Sau from Baranagar in North 24 Parganas, outside a railway station in Delhi, in connection with the murder of Sau, state police informed on Friday morning. Police sources said the arrested youth is named Dharambir. He was reportedly arrested outside Delhi's Anand Vihar railway station. He has been identified as the main accused in the incident. The operation to arrest Dharambir was led by a sub-inspector of Baranagar police station. Barrackpore Police Commissariats Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Kuntal Banerjee said the accused is being brought from Delhi on Friday, and more details will be revealed after getting information from the arrested accused. Saus body was recovered on the night of November 10, from the residential flat of a five-storey housing cooperative on the night of November 10. The body was recovered in a lying position. There were also injury marks. The cause of death was a mystery. It is learnt that the deceased's sister and brother-in-law had been living in that flat for the last four years. The brother-in-law is now a resident of Sreerampore in Hooghly district, and Sau used to live in that flat in Baranagar from time to time. Her own house is in the nearby Dunlop area. Her brother-in-law also used to visit the flat from time to time. On Monday, the flat owner, i.e., Sau's brother-in-law, left the flat key with a neighbour. On November 10, in the afternoon, Sau entered the flat after taking the key from the neighbour. A couple of relatives of the deceased woman told police about their suspicion that her boyfriend might be involved in the mysterious death. He had been absconding since the body was recovered. Based on the location of the mobile tower and information from confidential sources, the investigators came to know that Dharambir had fled from Kolkata to Delhi. A special team of the police reached Delhi. Finally, the police were able to arrest Dharambir on the premises of Anand Vihar station in Delhi. The police suspect that Dharambir was visiting the young woman's flat because of his previous acquaintance. Investigators are investigating the exact reason for this brutal murder. They are trying to find out whether it was a personal grudge or some other mystery hidden behind it.
SBI General Insurance steps up road safety initiatives in Ladakh
Leh, Nov 12:SBI General Insurance has launched a road safety and emergency healthcare initiative in Ladakh in collaboration with humanitarian organisation Doers, the Ladakh Police and the Health Department to strengthen emergency medical response and promote safer roads in the region. As part of the initiative, the company handed over a fully equipped Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance to the Health Department on October 28 to ensure timely medical assistance to road accident victims during the critical golden hour. The ambulance was flagged off at Sonam Norboo Memorial (SNM) Hospital in Leh under the project titled Road Safety: Ambulances in the Indian Himalayan Region. Recognising the challenges posed by Ladakhs high-altitude terrain, long distances between settlements and extreme weather conditions, the initiative also focuses on accident prevention and improving road safety infrastructure. Under the programme, 40 retro-reflective road safety warning signboards have been installed at accident-prone locations identified in coordination with the Ladakh Police. The signboards are aimed at alerting motorists to potential hazards and encouraging safer driving practices, particularly on vulnerable stretches used by residents, tourists and other travellers. The flag-off ceremony was attended by Dr Laltinkhuma Franklin, IAS, Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department, Union Territory of Ladakh. Dr Rinchen Chosdol, Chief Medical Officer, Leh; Shatrughna Singh, Head of Compliance, SBI General Insurance; and Anuradha Bhardwaj, Head of Programmes, Doers, were also present, along with representatives of the concerned departments and organisations. Speaking on the initiative, Rathin Lahiri, Head-Marketing and CSR, SBI General Insurance, said timely emergency support could save lives in a region like Ladakh, where difficult terrain and long distances often delay access to medical care. He said the companys responsibility extended beyond providing insurance to supporting communities through interventions addressing critical needs on the ground. Through the initiative, SBI General Insurance aims to strengthen emergency response mechanisms and promote safer roads in Ladakh, while working in partnership with Doers, the Ladakh Police and the Health Department. The programme will also be extended to six other Himalayan statesHimachal Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Sikkim, Meghalaya and Uttarakhandto strengthen road safety measures and emergency medical response across the Himalayan region.
