Biswajit Basu becomes fourth retired judge to resign from West Bengal SIR tribunal
Others who quit are former Calcutta HC Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam, former judges Ranjit Kumar Bagh and Indrajit Chatterjee; judges heading the 19 tribunals have complained about the slow pace of disposal of 38 lakh pending appeals
Fake Durga Puja pass case: UNESCO denies ties with ex-Bengal minister Indranil Sen's organisation
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 7 (IANS) The UNESCO had conformed the Kolkata Police of not having any agreement with the Mass Art, an organisation linked to former West Bengal Information and Cultural Affairs Minister Indranil Sen, for sale of UN agency-tagged Durga Puja passes, the public prosecutor told a lower court in Kolkata on Saturday. As per the information provided by the public prosecutor to the court, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Kolkata Police, which is probing the case of sale of fake UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja passes, had recently sent an email to the UN agency seeking clarification on whether the latter had any agreement on this count with Mass Art, the entity through which such passes were sold. In reply, the public prosecutor told the court that the UNESCO had confirmed to the SIT that the international organisational had no such agreement with Mass Art, owned by Madhuchhanda Sen, the wife of former West Bengal Tourism Minister and former Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs, Indranil Sen, a singer-turned-politician. Sen was arrested last month by the Kolkata Police in the matter, and earlier the same court remanded him to police custody till November 10. However, on Saturday, the police presented Sen at the same court three days before the end of the tenure of his police custody, and the public prosecutor sought his judicial custody. The accused currently has Rs 27 lakh in two of his accounts. A total of Rs 10 crore has been seized from 27 frozen bank accounts related to the case. The police have seized 13 crucial documents related to the case. They need to be verified. The documents sought from the state government in the matter might take time to reach the investigating officers because of the ongoing festival holidays. So, we are now seeking judicial custody for the accused instead of wasting time by keeping him in police custody, the Public Prosecutor said. He also added that since the investigation in the matter was currently at a critical stage, bail should not be granted to the accused. In his counterargument, Sen's counsel said that it was not clear why the state was seeking the judicial custody of his client. However, my client should be given the status of a first-class prisoner in jail. Arrangements should also be made to provide him with all the medicines he consumes, Sen's counsel added. The Public Prosecutor opposed that demand for granting the first-class prisoner category to Sen and said that first there should be a separate hearing on why that accused deserved that special category treatment in judicial custody. Thereafter, Sen's counsel said that keeping in mind their political and social status, the former West Bengal Fire Services Minister Sujit Basu had also been granted the first-class prisoner category in judicial custody. Thereafter, the judge of the lower court approved the appeal for granting first-class prisoner category to Sen and remanded him to judicial custody till November 21.
Bengal govt issues notification directing ISKCON to provide mid-day meals in state
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 7 (IANS) The West Bengal School Education Department on Saturday issued a notification authorising the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) to provide mid-day meals in all state-run and state-aided schools in the state. Till now, ISKCON had been providing mid-day meals in state-run and state-aided schools within the jurisdiction of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). However, as per the notification issued on Saturday evening, ISKCON had been, henceforth, authorised to provide mid-day meals in all state-run and state-aided schools throughout the state. As per the notification, a copy of which is available with IANS, all schools in the state are being brought under the Union government's scheme of Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman or PM Poshan scheme, and under this arrangement ISKCON had been authorised to provide mid-day meals in all state-run and state-aided schools in the state. After the new Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government came to power in the state, new rules were introduced for the provision of midday meals. ISKCON was given the responsibility of providing mid-day meals to provide nutrition to school children. It was started in government schools in Kolkata in August. However, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had announced at that time that although it was being started on an experimental basis, the responsibility of mid-day meals to ISKCON would be given to all districts of the state in a phased manner. A notification was recently issued saying that mid-day meals would be provided to government schools in Howrah and Purba Medinipur. However, it was withdrawn later. On Saturday, a fresh notification has been issued authorising ISKCON to provide mid-day meals to all government schools throughout the state. However, this system will be implemented in all districts in a phase-wise manner. As per the notification, to prepare this mid-day meal, a suitable place for the central kitchen will have to be identified. For this, the concerned district administration will cooperate with ISKCON authorities. As per the present system, while ISKCON is providing nutritious vegetarian food as mid-day meals, eggs are provided separately to the students, arranged by the women-run self-help groups. The same system will prevail throughout the state now, a source from the state school education department said.
Rajnath Singh reviews preparedness of Trishakti Corps at Sukna
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 7 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday reviewed the operational preparedness of Trishakti Corps at Sukna in West Bengal on Saturday. He was briefed on infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the deployment of advanced military equipment and emerging technologies to enhance operational capabilities and combat effectiveness during his visit, according to a statement issued by the Defence Ministry. The minister expressed satisfaction with the operational preparedness of the Corps and appreciated its contribution to nation-building through infrastructure development and community welfare initiatives in border areas, aimed at strengthening ties with local communities. Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth; General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, Lt Gen VMB Krishnan; and General Officer Commanding, 33 Corps, Lt Gen Man Raj Singh Mann were present on the occasion, along with other senior army officers. Later, addressing the soldiers during Barakhana on the eve of Diwali, the Defence Minister commended their courage, professionalism and unwavering dedication towards safeguarding the nation's frontiers under challenging operational conditions. Underlining the importance of logistics in national security, he described Sukna and its surrounding region as a critical hub for the movement of supplies, weaponry, food, medical provisions and personnel to forward locations. He stated that Sukna serves as a vital link in the security architecture of Eastern India and its geographical sensitivity necessitates round-the-clock operational readiness. He added that the Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is continuously working to strengthen supply chains and ensure that soldiers deployed at forward locations have access to all essential requirements. Rajnath Singh highlighted that budgetary allocations for roads, tunnels, border infrastructure and modern equipment have been increased, with the nation steadily progressing towards 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. Highlighting the changing nature of modern warfare, the Defence Minister emphasised that security challenges are no longer confined to conventional exchanges of gunfire or artillery along the borders, but encompass hybrid warfare, proxy wars, cyber-attacks, drone incursions and information warfare. He said that adversaries increasingly resort to spreading rumours through social media, monitoring sensitive locations using drones and attempting to compromise military systems through cyber-attacks. He exhorted the personnel to remain vigilant and prepared to safeguard national security across all domains. The minister reaffirmed the Government's commitment to taking every possible step to boost troop morale and urged officers to spend quality time with soldiers whenever possible. Such interactions, he said, would foster a strong sense of belonging among personnel and reinforce their confidence that the Government and the entire nation stand firmly with them. Describing the North-Eastern region as the 'first edge' rather than the 'last edge' of India, Rajnath Singh said that the region represents the beginning of the nation's geographical and cultural landscape, as it receives the first rays of the morning sun.
Fourth Judge Quits West Bengal SIR Tribunal
His resignation comes amid a backlog of more than 37 lakh appeals from voters seeking restoration of their names to the electoral rolls.
Agniveers can seek permanent enrolment after 2-yr extension: Rajnath
New Delhi: After completing an additional two-year tenure, all Agniveers will be eligible for enrollment as regular soldiers, subject to their willingness and meeting the selection criteria, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday. Singhs remarks during an interaction with air warriors at West Bengals Bagdogra Air Force station came three days after the government 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 .
Mamata Banerjee Objects To Puja Pandal Blocking Road Access
Former West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee alleges that a puja pandal was illegally set up on the main road near her residence, blocking access to her own puja. She accuses authorities of high-handedness and strongly opposes the move.
New Delhi, Nov 7: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called upon the Defence Forces to maintain the highest level of operational readiness, with special focus on strengthening domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity to effectively counter emerging security threats. Interacting with the personnel of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on the eve of Diwali at Air Force Station, Bagdogra, West Bengal, on Singh emphasised that the security landscape has become increasingly complex, with warfare extending beyond conventional engagements along the borders to encompass asymmetric warfare, proxy wars, cyber-attacks, drone swarms, information operations and narrative management. Often, the adversary avoids direct confrontation and instead seeks to exploit our vulnerabilities. Through social media, the adversary may attempt to sow doubt in the minds of the local population and our soldiers by spreading misleading information. In such a scenario, your role extends beyond that of an ordinary soldier, said Defence Minister. Describing Bagdogra as a strategically important region and a crucial link in India's security framework, particularly for the North-Eastern region, Rajnath Singh commended the courage and dedication of the defence forces personnel towards safeguarding national interests. He stated that the Air Warriors deployed in the region serve as a robust shield for the security of the eastern sector, and their preparedness is fundamental to maintaining stability in the region. Defence Minister underscored that discipline and courage remain indispensable, irrespective of technological advancements, stating that the conduct, bearing, language and restraint of the Defence Forces personnel shape the image of the military among local communities. Lauding the soldiers for discharging their duties with these qualities, he urged them to strengthen their engagement with the local population, particularly in and around Bagdogra, and nurture the deep bond of trust and affection between the people and the Defence Forces. The more you engage with the local community, the weaker the adversarys conspiracies will become, he said. Reaffirming the Government's resolve to achieve Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Rajnath Singh highlighted the growing contribution of Indian start-ups and industries in developing drones, anti-drone systems and advanced military equipment. He appreciated the defence forces for embracing indigenous technologies and acquiring new skills in drone operations and cyber security. He underlined the importance of making the military increasingly technology-driven to effectively address future security challenges. Referring to the Cabinets approval of the 'Second Tour of Duty' for Agniveers, Defence Minister stated that the decision would provide Agniveers with another opportunity to serve the nation. He added that upon completion of the two-year engagement period, all Agniveers will get an opportunity to be enrolled as regular soldiers subject to their willingness and their meeting selection criteria. He termed the decision as a significant Diwali gift for Agniveers, reiterating the Government's commitment to the welfare of the Defence Forces personnel and their families. Rajnath Singh extended his Diwali greetings and wished the Air Warriors and their families good health, happiness and prosperity. He said that the personnel, despite missing their families during the festival, remain steadfast in ensuring the security of their fellow citizens. He expressed gratitude to their families for their sacrifices and contributions. He emphasised that while the soldiers remain committed towards safeguarding the borders, the nation will always stand by their families and ensure their well-being. Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit; Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station, Bagdogra Air Commodore Manish Sharma; and other senior officials of the IAF were present on the occasion.
Bengal to witness rain after Kali Puja, temperatures likely to dip by 4 degrees
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 7 (IANS) The winter chill is likely to make a gradual entry into West Bengal as temperatures are expected to drop by two to four degrees Celsius over the next 24 hours, bringing a slight nip in the air during Kali Puja on Sunday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Saturday. The cooling effect is likely to be more noticeable in the western districts, particularly during the early morning and night hours. However, the weather is expected to remain dry across the state till Kali Puja. Meanwhile, the Met department has forecast another spell of rain in both south and north Bengal from Monday, with a newly formed low-pressure area over north Bengal likely to create favourable conditions for precipitation across several districts. Dry weather will prevail till Kali Puja on Sunday. The weather will start changing from Monday. Rain will continue in south and north Bengal. Light to moderate rain with thundershowers is likely in Kolkata, Howrah, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, Nadia and Murshidabad districts. Gusty winds of 30 to 40 km per hour are likely in coastal areas. Rain chances will increase further on Tuesday, a Met department official said. Rain activity is expected to intensify on Tuesday and continue in several parts of south Bengal till Wednesday. Kolkata, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore and West Midnapore are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. Other districts of south Bengal, including Nadia and Murshidabad, may also experience wet weather. Gusty winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 kmph are likely at isolated places. In Kolkata, the maximum temperature on Saturday hovered around 30 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature was recorded at 21.2 degrees Celsius. The Met department has ruled out rainfall in the city on Saturday and Sunday. North Bengal, too, is likely to witness increased rainfall activity from Tuesday. Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms is forecast across the region, with gusty winds possible at one or two places. On Wednesday, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Alipurduar, Cooch Behar and Jalpaiguri are likely to receive light rainfall.
Adhikari gives police free hand to tackle crimes against women, drug smuggling in Bengal
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 7 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday said he had given the police a free hand to deal with crimes against women and narcotics smuggling in the state, warning that political interference in these matters would not be tolerated. At the same time, Adhikari, who also holds the police portfolio, issued a stern warning against attacks on police personnel and vandalism of police stations and outposts, saying those involved would face prolonged imprisonment. I have given the police a free hand in tackling two issues. The first is crime against women and the second is narcotics smuggling. I will not tolerate any kind of political interference in these two issues. At the same time, as the police minister of the state, I will not tolerate any incident of attack on a cop or ransacking of any police station or police outpost. Those attacking police personnel will have to spend years behind bars, Adhikari said. He also warned that those responsible for vandalising police establishments would have to pay for the damage, along with interest. We will recover damages, along with interest, in case of ransacking of police stations or police outposts from those responsible, the Chief Minister said while distributing appointment letters to newly recruited police sub-inspectors at Lalbazar, the Kolkata Police headquarters in central Kolkata. Adhikari advised the newly appointed officers to maintain strict discipline in their daily duties and follow the instructions and orders of their superiors. Highlighting the challenges faced by the police force, he said West Bengal's vast geographical diversity, large population and varied linguistic and cultural backgrounds made policing particularly demanding. There are 11 crore people in West Bengal. On one side are mountains, on the other side are jungles, and on the other are several isolated islands. The police's responsibility is to ensure that public life remains normal. Till now, they did not get any facilities. The police did not have financial security. Now the police will be provided with financial security, he said. The Chief Minister said the state government would focus on modernising the police force and improving the quality of its training. An MoU had been signed with a police training centre in Assam for this purpose, while steps would also be taken to strengthen coordination between the state police and the Central forces. Claiming that police recruitment had remained neglected during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government, Adhikari said the new administration had already recruited 11,000 personnel into the state police force. He acknowledged that 46,000 posts were still vacant and said the government would fill them in phases. The recruitment drive would include 6,345 women police personnel and 4,000 constables, he said, adding that further appointments would be made over the coming months. Recruitment in the police will be done again in December-January, Adhikari said, indicating that the government planned to accelerate the process to strengthen the state's policing infrastructure.
Mamata Banerjee Slams BJP Over Attack On Abhishek Banerjee
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday hit out at the BJP over an alleged attack on the residence of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee in Kolkatas Kalighat. Challenging the BJP over the alleged use of bulldozers, she said, How many bulldozers do you have? Come, I am standing right in front []
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari warns legal action against attacks on police
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They will end up behind bars: WB CM Suvendu Adhikari warns against attacks on police in West Bengal
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday warned of strict legal action against anyone attacking police personnel, asserting that those involved in such incidents would be arrested and brought to justice through legal channels. Speaking about law and order in the state, Adhikari referred to the vandalism of police outposts in Asansol and said the government had ensured that those responsible faced consequences. The law exists... In Asansol, they vandalised police outposts; we ensured they paid the price. In the future, if anyone dares to raise a hand against the police, we will ensure they are taught a lesson, strictly through legal channels. They will end up behind bars. The State Government
'Run Bulldozer Over Me': Mamata After Attack At Abhishek Banerjees House Ahead Of Kali Puja
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of disrupting traditional Kali Puja celebrations following an alleged attack on TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee's residence in Kolkata. Abhishek alleged that BJP workers attacked his residence around 2 am on Saturday and questioned the Kolkata Police's response. Reacting to the incident, Mamata claimed that traditional puja permissions were revoked while new celebrations were allowed. She also questioned why a locality known for Kali Puja processions was being disturbed ahead of Kali Puja and Diwali. Mamata further alleged political hostility, linking it to the TMC's association with the INDIA alliance.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 7 (IANS) Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday threatened to approach the Supreme Court over clashes allegedly involving Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Mamata All India Trinamool Congress (MAITC) supporters outside the residence of her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, in south Kolkata. She accused the BJP and the police of conspiring to create tension in the area. Mamata visited Abhisheks residence in Kalighat, close to her own home, and spoke to reporters. Abhishek is the Trinamool Congresss Lok Sabha member from Diamond Harbour. Mamata said she would pursue the matter at the highest judicial level if required, alleging that the police had failed to act during the incident. The two residences are located in the same south Kolkata neighbourhood. A group of lumpen elements backed by the BJP orchestrated the attack on Abhisheks house after 2 a.m. The police remained silent spectators, she alleged. She singled out Bolai Bag, officer-in-charge of Kalighat police station, which has jurisdiction over both residences. She cautioned the officer that his actions could trigger public anger. The former Chief Minister also accused the police of trying to disrupt the annual Kali Puja organised at her residence and prevent people from visiting her home for the festival. She alleged that restrictions and police deployment had created tension in the neighbourhood ahead of the celebrations. An atmosphere of unrest has been deliberately created in this area before the Kali Puja. The pujas of old clubs are being prevented. However, new pujas are starting overnight. The entrance to my house has been practically blocked, and new pujas have been organised. The police vehicles have deliberately been kept blocking the entrance to my house. The police have also issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, she said. Mamata claimed that surveillance had been stepped up to prevent people from gathering outside her residence. As a result, the police have intensified surveillance to ensure that no gathering takes place in front of my house. All this is done to prevent people from coming to my house on the occasion of the Kali Puja, she said. She accused the BJP of engineering the tension outside Abhisheks residence during the early hours of Saturday, and questioned the partys stated commitment to democracy. On one hand, they are organising Save Democracy, Eliminate Anarchy rallies in the state, and on the other hand, they are the ones who are trampling the democratic structure, she said. Mamata also criticised the state administration, referring indirectly to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. I am not blaming all from BJP. But the one who is leading the administration in West Bengal is behind all these, she alleged.
Two Indian restaurants make The 50 Best Restaurants list for the first time in 19 years
Mamata Banerjee alleged that the BJP disrupted a Kali Puja celebration in Kolkata's Kalighat area. She claimed that a gang attacked TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee's house during the early hours. Concerns were raised about the breakdown of law and order in West Bengal related to these incidents. CCTV footage reportedly captured assailants attacking the premises and damaging property.
Mamata Banerjee accuses BJP of hooliganism, says
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of hooliganism and alleged that a gang of thugs attacked a Kali Puja celebration in Kolkata's Kalighat area in the early hours of the day, following an alleged attack on the residence of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee. Police reached Abhishek Banerjee's residence after he alleged that his house was attacked around 2 am. Mamata Banerjee, reacting to the incident, questioned the alleged disruption of traditional puja celebrations in the locality ahead of Kali Puja and Diwali. Tomorrow is Kali Puja and Diwali. Last night, at 2:00 AM, an attack was carried out at Abhishek Banerjee
West Bengal elections not legally valid, says former CEC S.Y. Quraishi
Former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi questions the legal validity of the West Bengal elections, flags alleged voter deletions during the SIR process and says Election Commission decisions must be taken by majority.
Fake Durga Puja pass case: Indranil Sen's daughter echoes mother, blames father for firm operations
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 7 (IANS)Former West Bengal Tourism Minister and former Minister of State for Information & Cultural Affairs Indranil Sen appears increasingly isolated within his own family in the multi-crore fake UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja pass scam, for which he was arrested last month. First, his wife, Madhuchhanda Sen, who owns Mass Art, the entity through which the fake passes were allegedly sold, said during interrogation that the said entity was in her name only on paper and all administrative and operational decisions about the entity were taken by her husband. She also claimed that her role in Mass Art was just limited to signing on the dotted lines as instructed by her husband. Now, Sens daughter, Averi Sen, who was also questioned for several hours by investigating officers at Kolkata Police headquarters, Lalbazar in Central Kolkata, earlier this week, almost echoed her mother on this issue, confirmed a city police source. Averi was questioned about the huge sums of money transferred to two corporate entities in her name, ISCAPE and Myra. Like her mother, she also claimed that the two corporate entities were in her name just on paper and her role was limited to signing on the dotted lines as instructed by her father. The statements of Sens wife and mother corroborate the findings of the investigating officers that, in an attempt to keep himself in the fake pass case as well as other cases relating to tendering irregularities in both the state tourism and information & cultural affairs departments, Sen operated from behind in all these corporate entities, keeping his family members in the forefront. In fact, instead of using his own bank accounts, he used the accounts in the names of his family members or the corporate entities in their names for financial transactions, the city police insider said. Meanwhile, he added, Sen, who is in police custody now, had started passing the buck to Dhrubojytri Basu, a top official of Mass Art, who was arrested earlier this week. Sen will be produced before a lower court in Kolkata on November 10. On the other hand, Basu will be presented at the same court on November 13. Besides, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Kolkata Police, the fake puja pass case is also being probed by the ED.
Will recruit 27,556 personnel, ensure fair recruitment process: West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday announced that the state government would recruit 27,556 personnel, as approved by the Cabinet, and assured that the recruitment process would be conducted fairly and transparently, with further appointments planned across departments, including the Forest Department. Addressing an event for the distribution of appointment letters to newly recruited police personnel, CM Adhikari said the government would introduce fair recruitment rules and provide age relaxation in certain cases, considering that recruitment had not taken place over the past few years. A tug-of-war was going on between the two pillars of democracy. We have resolved that issue. We will recruit 27,556 personnel, as approved by the Cabinet. We will carry out more recruitments in the coming months. Recruitment will not be limited to the police; departments such as the Forest Department will also see new appointments, the Chief Minister said. Emphasising the need to...
The defence minister, Rajnath Singh, on Saturday called on the armed forces to maintain the highest level of operational readiness, with a focus on domain awareness, cyber resilience and information integrity to counter emerging threats. Singh was speaking to Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel at Air Force Station Bagdogra in West Bengal on the eve [] The post Rajnath Singh tells forces to stay at peak readiness against cyber and information threats at Bagdogra air base appeared first on Tfipost.com .
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], November 7: What makes a destination memorable? It is often more than its landscapes or monuments. It is the food, the flavours, the traditions and the warmth of the people who welcome visitors. Recognising the importance of these experiences to tourism, the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), part of the Indismart Group, has entered into a three-year Strategic Partnership Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Andhra Pradesh, through the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority.
Pay Commission: West Bengal's 7th panel will cover non-teaching staff of state-aided universities and education boards and examine their existing pay structure and service conditions. Here's all we know
Who has time to kill Abhishek Banerjee?: Dilip Ghosh dismisses claims of attack
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Saturday mocked All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee over his claims of a late-night attack on his residence, questioning who has time to kill the TMC leader. Speaking to the reporters, Ghosh termed the allegations as an attempt to mislead people. This is the first time we
Calcutta High Court restrains KMC polls until challenge on delimitation decided
The West Bengal government, through a delimitation, has increased the number of wards of KMC from 144 to 209. The petitioner argued that the State government and its agencies have resorted to gerrymandering in order to secure partisan advantage to the ruling political party in West Bengal on the premise of previous electoral results.
West Bengal election is not legally valid:Former CEC S.Y. Quraishi
The former top poll official alsoreinstated thatthe Election Commission of Indiais supposed to makedecisions based on a majority
Participants from 11 countries attend SRFTI media training
In Salt Lake, road repairs enter lanes and bylanes inside blocks
In next 4 months, cops to spend Rs 2 crore on road markings
New Alipore locals band together to save strays
5 friends douse teen in petrol, set him on fire to create reel
Ashoke Sen delivers lecture at IACS, his 2nd in Kol after Oskar Klein Medal win
IIT Kgp director elected intl science body fellow
Green norms go up in smoke as illegal crackers flood markets
From Dial 100 calls to locked terraces and rocket ban, condos tighten cracker curbs
ER lens on cracker transportation by trains, steps up vigil at stations
Drone, helicopter, lotus, elephant and peacock fireworks add sparkle to Bazi Bazaar
Police step up neighbourhood patrolling, announcements
Catch them young: Police take message of green fireworks to students at schools, apartments
Kolkata sees 22% rise in registered Kali Pujas
Gold, silver prices down, jewellers see a 25% rise in Dhanteras sales
West Bengal may get 1 lakh crore investments in a few months: Suvendu Adhikari
Suvendu Adhikari said the BJP-led government would offer incentives starting May 9, but would be unable to clear the industrial incentives backlog of nearly Rs 50,000 crore owing to the state's debt burden of Rs 8 lakh crore. He promised to clear the backlog once West Bengal becomes a financially stronger state like Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu in the next two years.
Rare bird sightings raise hopes, birders warn Chhath could undo Sarobars ecological recovery
New Market hotel file: Charge sheet likely next wk, to focus blaze source, flammable interior decor
Eligible CAA applicants to get citizenship by December 31: West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced plans to expedite the citizenship application process under CAA by December 31. He highlighted that around 2.5 lakh applications remain pending due to previous government delays. Adhikari stated that training and administrative measures are being implemented to ensure timely application processing. Additionally, the state government will invest Rs 1,000 crore over two years to restore religious institutions.
Ex-Minister's Home Searched In Puja Pass Scam
Police conducted a search at the Kasba residence of former West Bengal minister Indranil Sen in connection with the alleged Durga Puja pass scam, days after his arrest. The investigation involves the unauthorised use of the UNESCO name and logo to sell VIP passes and preview show tickets, with Sen's wife and daughter also under scrutiny for their alleged roles and financial irregularities.
RPF seizes 6 kg of ganja worth 3 lakh at Thrissur railway station
19-year-old West Bengal native held; says he was promised 20,000 to deliver the consignment at Aluva
Dasgupta says there is enough land available at present in the State to take care of the initial demand for the next two to three years
Train enroute to Bengal catches fire in Punjab, all passengers escape unhurt
Digital Desk | Patiala, Nov 6 (IANS) A major tragedy was averted in Punjab on Friday after four coaches of the Karmabhoomi Express, which was enroute to West Bengal, caught fire near Sarai Banjara in Patiala district, officials said. All passengers of the Express train escaped unhurt. Ambala Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Vinod Kumar Bhatia told reporters that the train was travelling from Amritsar to New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal. He said: The fire incident was reported between Rajpura and Sadhu Garh railway stations. When the loco pilot and guard noticed automatic chain pulling (ACP) and dropping of pressure, they quickly brought the train under control. After getting down, they noticed fire and smoke and immediately took precautions. Bhatia added that all the passengers were evacuated and the affected coaches were isolated to prevent the fire from spreading to other coaches. As soon as the guard informed our control room, we regulated and controlled the trains on the other line as well, he said. The DRM also said that initially, one coach was affected, but as strong winds were blowing at the time of the incident, the fire spread to other coaches. A total of four coaches were affected. No one was injured and there were no casualties, he added. A similar incident was reported from Bihar in August, when a massive fire broke out on the Samastipur-Saharsa Passenger train (63344) at Simri Bakhtiyarpur railway station in the state's Saharsa district. The incident triggered panic among passengers and railway staff. According to information, the fire started near the train's middle engine and rapidly spread to three coaches. Thick smoke and towering flames created a chaotic situation at the station. A large number of passengers were travelling on the train when the fire broke out. As soon as they noticed the flames, passengers began getting off the coaches. A potentially serious tragedy was averted as all passengers reportedly managed to evacuate safely. After receiving information about the fire, multiple fire tenders and railway officials reached the station. Firefighters launched an immediate operation and eventually brought the blaze under control.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 6 (IANS) West Bengal Finance Department issued a notification announcing the state governments decision to bring all non-teaching employees in 25 state universities and all employees of three state education boards and councils under the 7th Pay Commission. The three education boards and councils whose employees will be brought under the 7th Pay Commission are West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE), West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) and the West Bengal Board of Madrasah Education (WBBME). As per the notification issued by Prabhat Kumar Mishra, the Additional Chief Secretary to the State Finance Department, while the state government had constituted the 7th Pay Commission for State Government employees as well as certain other categories of employees and decided the terms of reference, the Governor, R.N. Ravi, had decided that the Commission will also examine the existing pay structure and conditions of service of the regular non-teaching employees in the state-aided universities and all employees in the three education boards and councils. The Commission will make necessary recommendations as early as possible, read the notification. However, the notification did not provide any information on the rate at which the salaries of the concerned education workers will increase. The notification had also not given any clarification on what the new salary structure will be, when it will be effective, and how the arrears will be settled. It is believed that a decision in this regard can be taken only after the commission's recommendations. After the new government took over, there have been expectations among the state government employees regarding the Pay Commission, dearness allowances at par with those of central government employees accrued on it. The Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, had also announced that the 7th Pay Commission would be formed to restructure the pay structure of the state government employees. After that announcement, the state government started the initial process of forming the 7th Pay Commission.
Urgent: SVMCM Scholarship Deadline Tonight! Complete Your Submission Before Colleges Close Portals
Facing an SVMCM scholarship deadline? Colleges are setting internal cut-offs for November 6, 2026. Complete your application and document uploads tonight to secure your West Bengal merit-cum-means financial aid.
Akhilesh Yadav says BJP will be forever defeated in UP, alleges electoral roll manipulation
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Friday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to manipulate electoral rolls in Uttar Pradesh through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process and alleged that the ruling party was conspiring to deprive people of their right to vote. Claiming that the BJP would be defeated in Uttar Pradesh, Yadav alleged that similar practices were used in West Bengal, where voters' names were removed from electoral rolls and central security forces were deployed to influence the election. The Bharatiya Janata Party will be forever defeated in UP. People from various states, several political parties, and especially the Opposition, raised questions about the SIR process, but the Election Commission had no answers. Look at the recent election in Bengal, where the Bharatiya Janata Party manipulated the entire process in its favour by using SIR and deploying central forces, Yadav said, addressing a press conference. He further alleged that t...
Fire breaks out in train coach in Punjab, passengers escape unhurt
According to officials, the incident occurred in a general coach of a train headed from Amritsar to New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal
'For a social media reel': Kolkata teen blindfolded, doused in petrol and set on fire
Keralam Construction Sector Faces Uncertainty as Bengal Seeks Return of Migrant Workers
The uncertainty stems from an appeal by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari asking workers to stay back, citing livelihood opportunities under the VB-G RAM G scheme, which guarantees 125 days of work and enables them to earn a livelihood while living with their families
Key takeaways from the West Bengal Investment Promotion Policy, 2026
The announcement of incentives marks a policy shift for West Bengal as the previous Trinamool Congress government had passed the Revocation of West Bengal Incentive Schemes and Obligations 2025
WBPSC IDO Syllabus 2026 - Check Subject-Wise Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Marks and PDF
The West Bengal Public Service Commission (WBPSC) has released the WBPSC IDO Syllabus 2026 and examination scheme through its detailed recruitment advertisement for 247 Industrial Development Officer (IDO) vacancies. The recruitment is being conducted under Advertisement No. 15/2024 for the Directorate of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Government of West Bengal. Candidates preparing for the examination should check the prescribed seven subjects, subject-wise marks, negative marking and interview requirements before beginning their preparation.
WBPSC IDO Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 247 Industrial Development Officer Posts
Public Service Commission, West Bengal (WBPSC) has released the Recruitment 2026 notification for 247 Industrial Development Officer posts. The online application process will be conducted from 06 November 2026 to 26 November 2026. Eligible candidates can apply through the official website, psc.wb.gov.in.
Govt launches 9th round of critical mineral auctions, 20 blocks across 8 states put up for bidding
The Ministry of Mines has launched the ninth tranche of the auction of critical and strategic mineral blocks, putting 20 blocks across eight states on offer, as the government steps up efforts to strengthen domestic mineral availability and encourage private sector participation. The latest auction follows eight previous tranches in which 100 unique critical and strategic mineral blocks were offered, of which 64 were successfully auctioned, recording a success rate of 64 per cent. The Ministry of Mines, in an official statement, said, In the previous eight tranches, 100 unique critical and strategic mineral blocks were offered, of which 64 have been successfully auctioned, a success rate of 64 per cent. The 20 blocks offered in the ninth tranche are spread across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana and West Bengal. The minerals on offer include graphite, glauconite, vanadium, gallium, titanium, rare earth elements (REE), bauxite, alu...
18 arrested in Tripura over attack on BSF personnel near Bangladesh border
Digital Desk | Agartala, Nov 6 (IANS) The total number of people so far arrested in connection with the brutal attack on Border Security Force (BSF) personnel in Tripuras Sepahijala district has risen to 18, including three women, following the arrest of eight more accused, police officials said on Friday. A senior police official said the fresh eight arrests were made from different parts of Sepahijala district on Thursday night and early Friday morning in connection with the November 2 incident at Ashabari village, under Kalamchaura police station, along the India-Bangladesh international border. An intensive search operation, launched immediately after the attack on BSF personnel on November 2, was still underway to apprehend the remaining accused, the official told IANS. All the 18 accused have been booked under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984. The eight newly arrested persons would be produced before a local court in Sepahijala district at the earliest, the official said. The first 10 accused arrested in the case were earlier produced before a court. Following the courts orders, the male accused were remanded to police custody, while the women were sent to judicial custody. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Manik Saha, who had strongly condemned the attack and directed the authorities to take stringent action against those involved, chaired a high-level meeting with senior security officials on Thursday night to review the incident and the overall law and order situation. In a post on X, CM Saha said he chaired the meeting at the TIFT Conference Hall in Agartala in the presence of senior officials from the state administration, police, BSF, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Assam Rifles. He said the Ashabari incident was also reviewed, and the authorities were directed to ensure strict legal action against those involved, adopt zero tolerance towards cross-border smuggling and strengthen security measures to maintain peace and law and order. According to police, the incident occurred on November 2 when BSF personnel intercepted a group of alleged smugglers attempting to smuggle ganja (cannabis) across the India-Bangladesh border. Subsequently, the BSF personnel were reportedly surrounded and attacked by a mob of around 50 men and women, leaving three personnel, including a Company Commander, grievously injured. The attackers also allegedly snatched a pump-action gun (PAG) from one of the BSF personnel and damaged a BSF vehicle. One of the alleged attackers was also injured in the incident. There have been several instances of attacks on BSF and other security personnel by suspected cross-border smugglers in Tripura. On October 16, 2017, a vehicle allegedly driven by smugglers ran over Deepak Kumar Mandal, Deputy Commandant of the BSF's 145th Battalion, at Balerdepha in the smuggling-prone Sonamura subdivision of Sepahijala district. Mandal, a resident of West Bengal, succumbed to his injuries on October 20, 2017. In another incident, Tripura Police Sub-Inspector Durga Kumar Hrangkhawl was killed on duty on November 21, 2019, after a vehicle allegedly operated by cross-border smuggling mafias deliberately ran him over in the same district. These incidents underline the serious risks faced by security and law-enforcement personnel while tackling organised cross-border smuggling activities in the district. Tripura shares an 856-km-long international border with Bangladesh and is surrounded by the neighbouring country on three sides. The state's geographical location makes it particularly vulnerable to cross-border smuggling, illegal movement and other transnational crimes. Except for a few stretches, most parts of the international border have been fenced to prevent smuggling, illegal crossings and the movement of criminal and other inimical elements.
Calcutta HC set to pronounce its verdict today in KMC ward delimitation case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 6 (IANS) A Division Bench of the Calcutta High Court will pronounce a crucial verdict on Friday in the case challenging the recent delimitation of wards in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), which is scheduled to go to the polls this year-end. The hearing in the matter was concluded at the Calcutta High Courts Division Bench of Justice Sabyasachi Bhattacharya and Justice Arjun Roy on November 4. However, the Division Bench reserved judgment, barring the West Bengal State Election Commission (WBSEC) from announcing the schedule for the forthcoming KMC polls until the court pronounced the order. Now, on Friday, the Division Bench will pronounce judgment in the matter, and it will be clear whether polling for the formation of the new KMC board will happen by the year-end or not. Polling for seven urban civic bodies in West Bengal, including KMC and Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC), is likely to take place in the last week of December, and results are expected to be announced in the first week of January next year. Before that, the delimitation of the wards in KMC had been announced, increasing the number of wards to 209 from 144. Meanwhile, the Communist Party of India(Marxist) approached the Calcutta High Court, challenging the delimitation process. In the petition filed by CPI(M) leader and former party Councillor Dipu Das, she claimed that despite some serious objections to the new ward delimitation being raised and a proposal mooted for a 'spot visit' and a public hearing in the area to get the opinions of the citizens, no importance was given to those objections and proposals. The petitioner also claimed that several aspects, including the population and geographical location of the wards, were not properly considered in the delimitation exercise. She even claimed that this move was made to give benefits to a specific party. Initially, the matter was heard at the Calcutta High Court's single-judge bench of Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharya. However, instead of passing any specific order in the matter, Justice Bhattacharya directed all parties concerned to file affidavits in the matter. Thereafter, the petitioner approached the Division Bench of Justice Bhattacharya and Justice Roy, challenging the order of the single-judge bench. The petitioner contended that if the WBSEC were to announce the schedule of the KMC before a clear judgment in the matter, her petition would not have any relevance. The hearing on the matter in the Division Bench concluded on November 4, and at the end of the hearing, the Division Bench ruled that the WBSEC should not announce the schedule for the KMC polls till the court pronounced its verdict in the matter.
Will do something for Singur, West Bengal CM signals fresh industrial push
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that the government was in talks with Ashok Leyland for setting up a plant at Singur
The announcement of incentives marks a policy shift for West Bengal as the previous Trinamool Congress government had scrapped industrial incentive schemes and subsidies
South suburban pockets supply most of Kolkatas noise demons
Lightweight gold, silver coins set up Dhanteras mood
Rabindra Sarobar regulars fear return of pre-2019 days
Kolkata Police enforce stricter fines on illegal firecracker sellers
SRFTI classes to stay suspended till Dec 11
3 coaching centre teachers thrash traffic cop, held
Tourism dept launches portal to list verified homestays
Drunk driver crashes SUV, injures two, damages Rajiv Gandhi statue
Poush Mela to be held from Dec 23
Birth anniversary to celebrate visions of freedom fighter Bipin Chandra Pal
SEC pushes back publication of final voter roll for KMC poll
Presidency played role in Vande Matarams evolution from song to victory slogan
ED Busts Fake Tender Racket, Raids Locations In Tripura, Bengal, Maharashtra
The Enforcement Directorate conducted search and seizure operations at 13 locations across Tripura, West Bengal, and Maharashtra in connection with an alleged fake government tender racket. The probe targets a suspended IAS officer and co-conspirators involved in a money-laundering investigation, with victims defrauded of over Rs 44 crore.
Doctor shops for magnet, uses it to draw another out of 6-year-old girls airway
Bizwoman falls prey to AI voice cloning scam
Body found in abandoned luxury car at Kasba garage
West Bengal unveils new investment policy, offers up to 120% assistance
The policy offers enhanced incentives for priority-sector investments, but excludes an estimated 50,000 crore backlog of industrial incentives promised under previous regimes
Bengal govt marks 275 B.Ed colleges as ineligible after failing to meet required criteria
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 5 (IANS) Coming as a setback to B.Ed colleges that have mushroomed in the state in the last few years, the West Bengal government has marked as many as 275 such colleges as 'ineligible'. As a result, these B.Ed colleges will not be able to renew their accreditation for the academic year 2026-27. State Higher Education Minister Jagannath Chattopadhyay stated that after the new government led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari came to power, he stood at Bikash Bhaban and said that education will not be allowed to be commoditised in any way and the quality of education must be maintained. He added that the Higher Education and Technical Education Department jointly conducted a rigorous inspection drive in B.Ed, ITI, Polytechnic and Pharma colleges. He said that in the first phase, 156 B.Ed colleges were allowed to admit students, adding that about 415 B.Ed colleges that could not meet the criteria were sent 21-day show-cause notices for infrastructure development. Out of them, 9 colleges did not respond, he said. After the second round of inspection, permission has been given to admit students in 237 B.Ed colleges for the academic year 2026-27. The remaining 205 colleges could not meet the quality standards, and due to this, a decision has been taken to stop the admission of students there. The Minister also said that admissions have been suspended in 14 out of 265 ITIs, 38 out of 134 pharma colleges and 1 out of 74 polytechnics. As a result, the future of the students in those colleges is in darkness. Swapan Mandal, General Secretary of the Bengali Teachers and Education Workers Association, said that if 275 B.Ed colleges are closed at once in the state, it will be a disaster in the education sector. He added that the future of the employees and students associated with so many colleges will become uncertain. There will also be a shortage of qualified teacher candidates. The government should immediately intervene in this matter and solve this problem, he said.
In festive season, Kalimpongs marigold growers struggle to find their market
