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Mamata Banerjee May Visit Delhi In February To Protest Against SIR: Sources

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to visit Delhi in February to register a major protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll.

NDTV 27 Jan 2026 7:19 am

Is there a Nipah virus outbreak in India? What we know about the disease with no cure

Asian airports, including Thailand, Nepal, and Taiwan, have implemented Covid-like screening for Nipah virus following reports of cases in West Bengal. While two confirmed cases are reported, experts emphasize ongoing monitoring due to the virus's long incubation period and high fatality rate, stressing the importance of contact tracing and supportive care.

The Economic Times 26 Jan 2026 7:50 pm

Mohan Babu honoured with West Bengal Governor's Award of Excellence

Telugu actor Mohan Babu is being honoured with the prestigious West Bengal Governor's Award of Excellence on Republic Day 2026.

IBTimes 26 Jan 2026 3:34 pm

Vande Matarams Forgotten Cricket Connection

Recently the 'Vande Mataram' was in the news, on the 150th anniversary of its composition, with political colours. We shall not discuss politics here. In 1875, Bengali author Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, known as one of India's most influential 19th century thinkers, wrote a poem, which inspired the freedom fighters in the battle against British colonial rule over India. This poem was first published in his 1882 novel 'Anandmath' under the title 'Vande Mataram'. In 1937 it was accorded the status of the country's National Song. You will be surprised to note that it has a strange cricket connection and many historians attribute the birth of this poem to an incident, which took place in a cricket match. .embed-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; } More than 150 years ago, a tiff was witnessed at the Barrack Square (now Square Field) in Berhampore (a city in West Bengal, located about 186 km from Kolkata) playground.The incident dates back to December 15, 1873 and Col. Duffin, was then Commanding Officer at Berhampore Cantonment. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, was the Deputy Collector of Murshidabad District, posted at Berhampore at that time. On that day, some British soldiers were playing a cricket match at the Square Field. Incidentally Bankim Babu was returning back from work on a palanquin (a big covered box-like vehicle usually with a seat for one person, attached to poles and is carried on shoulders by four or six men), around the same time. The palanquin bearers on their own, decided to take a short cut and to go across the Square Field instead of taking the road route. Bankim Babu was not aware of this change. The passing of the palanquin, obstructed the cricket match and this annoyed the British soldiers and became the cause of confrontation. Col. Duffin, lost his temper and in a fit of rage, stopped the palanquin, pulled Bankim Babu down from it and volleyed four-five punches at him. Bankim Babu was of a gentle nature and did not retaliate but he felt very insulted. The spectators to the incident included some reputed persons like Principal Robert Hand, Reverend Barlow, Judge Benbridge, Raja Jogindra Narayan Roy of Lalgola, Durgacharan Bhattacharya, some British officers and a few other natives and they all were witness to the brawl. This incident shook Bankim Babu as he was the serving Deputy Collector and felt humiliated. He did not stay silent and on the next day, filed a lawsuit against Col. Duffin at Mr Winters court, the District Magistrate of Murshidabad. This became very big news. The local support was with Bankim Babu to such an extent that Col. Duffin couldnt find a lawyer from Murshidabad to represent him and had to hire a lawyer from Krishnanagore, Nadia to defend him. As expected, all the British origin eyewitnesses, except one, denied the incident or having seen the beating of Bankim Babu during the match. Only Principal Robert Hand admitted the confrontation but the defendant counsel tried to prove that his poor eyesight barred his view and as such he is not a reliable witness. On January 12, 1874, the day of final verdict, the scene at the District Magistrate court was stupefying since morning. Before the start of the proceedings, the Judge requested the Magistrate to see him in the chamber. A few minutes later, Col. Duffin and Bankim Chandra were also summoned to the chamber. Bankim Babu was advised to withdraw the case and after prolonged persuasion, he agreed but on the condition that Col. Duffin shall apologise in the open court. Col. Duffin agreed to it but this didnt end his agony. The local crowd was very hostile towards him. Whenever Col. Duffin folded his hands for an apology and tried to speak, the youths present in the courtroom started clapping, laughing and shouting ho-ho. Col. Duffin felt humiliated and the seeds of revenge were ploughed. The elimination of Bankim Babu was planned but on a tip-off Bankim Babu was shifted to Lalgola, in a bid to save him. Here, incidentally he stayed in a Guest House near some temples and this inclined him towards spirituality. Even then, he couldnt forget the beating by a Gora and this kept on troubling his psyche. His frustrations refused to die. Now he had a different mission and from here, the story of his fight against the British Raj started. Bankim Chandra coined the Vande Mataram and this poem inspired the natives for the years to come. The first edition of his novel Anandamath was published in April 1882. Since he was a Govt. servant, he was pressurized to revise the contents of his novel. He instead took voluntary retirement from the job in 1885-86. The National Song continues to stir our souls, for the love of our Motherland, a powerful testament to patriotism and unity across India. Also Read: Live Cricket Score By the way, the Vande Mataram now sung (or played) at Indias cricket matches,especially after wins, is not the iconic patriotic song from Bankim Chandra's novel Anandamath, but a powerful rendition by A.R. Rahman in the film Independence Day. This has become a powerful massive crowd-unison, signifying national pride, unity, and post-victory celebrations, famously seen in the 2011World Cup and T20 World Cup wins.

CNMSports 26 Jan 2026 8:47 am

77th Republic Day Parade: Best Tableaus From 2014 to 2025, Full Winners' List

Republic Day Parade tableau winners from 2014 to 2025: Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tripura and more. Discover themes and highlights.

News18 26 Jan 2026 8:00 am

Hinterland's 'unsung heroes' on Padma rolls

The government recognized 84 districts, including ten new ones, for Padma awards, highlighting hinterland talents. Notable recipients include folk musician Taga Ram Bheel and environmentalist Hally War. Maharashtra leads with 15 awardees, followed by Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. The selection process involved over 39,000 nominations, emphasizing diverse representation.

The Times of India 26 Jan 2026 7:10 am

'Unmapped' voter lists being made public: West Bengal CEO Manoj Kumar Agarwal

West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Kumar Agarwal said the Election Commission is in the process of making public the list of unmapped and logical discrepancy voters after it was uploaded on the ECI website.

The Economic Times 25 Jan 2026 11:36 pm

After BJP Leader Complains, Bengal Poll Official Suspended Over SIR Lapse

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has suspended an Assistant Electoral Registration Officer (AERO) in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district after serious irregularities were found in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR).

NDTV 25 Jan 2026 11:05 pm

ECI orders suspension of Basirhat Officer over serious lapses in electoral hearings

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has flagged serious lapses in the electoral hearing process at Basirhat, West Bengal, and directed the Chief Secretary to suspend Sumitra Pratim Pradhan, AERO and BDO of Basirhat-II, and initiate disciplinary proceedings against him.

The Economic Times 25 Jan 2026 10:39 pm

BJP sets up committee to draft manifesto for 2026 West Bengal Assembly polls

Union Home Minister leader Amit Shah and newly elected BJP president Nitin Nabin will visit the State in the next few days

The Hindu 25 Jan 2026 9:42 pm

BJP leader allegedly dubs Mamata Banerjee a witch, calls for her beheading; TMC slams PM Modi

A political storm has erupted in West Bengal after a BJP leader allegedly called Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee a witch and advocated for her eheading. The TMC condemned the remarks, sharing a video and accusing the BJP of encouraging violence and misogyny, citing Prime Minister Modi's past comments.

The Economic Times 25 Jan 2026 9:03 pm

'Outright criminality': BJP leader calls for Mamata's beheading at Bengal rally; TMC hits back

The Trinamool Congress has strongly condemned BJP leader Sanjay Das for his derogatory remarks against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, including calling her a witch and advocating for her beheading. The TMC accused the BJP of normalizing misogyny, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's past remarks and the act of handing a sword to another BJP leader during the event.

The Times of India 25 Jan 2026 7:17 pm

Mamata accuses ECI of bulldozing Opposition, destroying foundation of India's democracy on BJP's behalf

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has been accusing the ECI of holding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal in undue haste

The Hindu 25 Jan 2026 5:46 pm

Tragic farce: Amid Bengal SIR, Mamata targets EC over national voters day celebrations

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee fiercely criticized the Election Commission on National Voters' Day, calling it a ragic farce and accusing it of destroying democracy on BJP's behalf. She alleged the EC is harassing citizens, particularly vulnerable groups, by demanding physical appearances for verification, leading to distress and deaths.

The Times of India 25 Jan 2026 5:15 pm

Mamata Banerjee accuses EC of bulldozing opposition, destroying foundation of India's democracy on 'BJP's behalf'

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticised the Election Commissions celebration of National Voters Day, calling it a tragic farce. She accused the poll panel of acting on behalf of the BJP, bulldozing the opposition and weakening Indian democracy.

The Economic Times 25 Jan 2026 4:42 pm

Bengal minister Shashi Panja receives SIR notice

Kolkata: West Bengal minister Shashi Panja on Sunday said she has received a hearing notice under the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state and alleged that the exercise was being carried out in haste and without adequate preparation. Panja, the minister for women and child development, also claimed that her 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 Siasat Daily 25 Jan 2026 3:18 pm

WBSEDCL Admit Card 2026 released for JE and Assistant Manager CBT at wbsedcl.in; download here

West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited has released the WBSEDCL Admit Card 2026 on its official website, wbsedcl.in, for Junior Engineer and Assistant Manager recruitment. The hall ticket is mandatory for appearing in the computer-based test scheduled on January 27, 2026, across three shifts. Candidates can download the admit card using their User ID and password and must carry it along with a valid photo ID to the examination centre.

The Times of India 25 Jan 2026 12:31 pm

West Bengal Assembly elections: BJP announces manifesto committee for upcoming polls

The State Sankalpa Patra Committee comprises 11 members, with party leader Tapas Roy serving as the Chairman. Dr Ashok Lahiri, MLA, serves as the Convener and Agnimitra Paul, MLA, is the Co-Convener. The members are Dr Chittaranjan Mandal, Manoj Tigga, MP, Dr Swapan Dasgupta, Shishir Bajoria, Dr Amalkanti Ray, Vaishali Dalmia, Dr Anirban Ganguly, and advocate Debjit Sarkar.

The Economic Times 25 Jan 2026 12:26 pm

Bengal SIR: EROs need clearances from SROs before uploading final voters list

Kolkata: The electoral registration officers (EROs) engaged in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal will need to obtain final clearance from the special roll observers (SROs) before uploading the voters names into the final electoral list. However, this restriction will only apply in cases of those voters who have appeared for hearings 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 Siasat Daily 25 Jan 2026 11:40 am

Passengers Must Be Free To Choose: TMC, BJP Clash Over Veg-Only Menu On Vande Bharat Sleeper

BJP's West Bengal president Samik Bhattacharya said food choices were a personal issue and not linked to the party.

News18 25 Jan 2026 10:52 am

Election Commission uploads on website names of people on logical discrepancies list following Supreme Court order

District electoral officers will now download the list and display it at panchayat bhavans and block offices in West Bengal

The Hindu 25 Jan 2026 1:01 am

Migrant worker from Beldanga died by suicide in Jharkhand, says West Bengal Police

Violence erupted atBeldangain Murshidabad on January 16 over the death of 30-year-old migrant worker Alauddin Sheikh; a large number of people took to the streets by blocking railway tracks and national highway for several hours

The Hindu 24 Jan 2026 11:04 pm

Nipah scare: RT-PCR tests conducted on bats at Kolkata zoo

Samples have recently been collected from bat populations in Madhyamgram, Barasat and Basirhat in West Bengal; Alipore Zoo remains the only facility in Kolkata that houses a bat enclosure, prompting health authorities to include it in the surveillance drive

The Hindu 24 Jan 2026 9:34 pm

3.5 lakh unmapped voters do not turn up for SIR hearing in West Bengal

While the lastdate forhearings for unmapped voters ended thisweek, the Election Commission has extended the date tillFebruary 7.

The Hindu 24 Jan 2026 9:18 pm

ICG seizes Indian fishing boat for smuggling betel nuts from Bangladesh

New Delhi: Indian Coast Guard (ICG) authorities stationed in West Bengal have confiscated an Indian fishing boat for smuggling betel nuts from Bangladesh, officials said on Saturday, January 24. Based on intelligence inputs, an ICG boarding team was immediately deployed to the reported spot, where the abandoned fishing boat Laxminarayan was located and confiscated, they 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 Siasat Daily 24 Jan 2026 8:02 pm

West Bengal reins in revenue spending growth in FY'26 so far; capex contracts: Report

West Bengal shows strong control over revenue spending in the current fiscal year. This is a positive sign compared to other states. However, the state's capital expenditure has declined significantly. This trend has continued from the previous fiscal year. The report highlights this mixed fiscal performance.

The Economic Times 24 Jan 2026 5:54 pm

What Is Happening In Bengal...: Amartya Sen Flags Haste In SIR Process

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen has voiced deep unease over the SIR process in West Bengal, warning that the exercise is being conducted with undue haste and may jeopardise democratic participation, particularly with the assembly elections approaching.

NDTV 24 Jan 2026 4:49 pm

'Unjust to voters, unfair to democracy': Amartya Sen says 'SIR in Bengal done in hurry'

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen voiced concerns over West Bengal's Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, saying the exercise is eing done in a hurry, further calling it an unjust to voters and a threat to democratic participation. He highlighted personal challenges with documentation and warned that the underprivileged and minority communities are most at risk of exclusion.

The Times of India 24 Jan 2026 4:18 pm

Hasty SIR in Bengal could undermine democracy: Amartya Sen

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen voices concern over West Bengal's voter list revision. He states the process is rushed and may hinder democratic participation before upcoming assembly elections. Sen highlights difficulties in submitting documents, particularly for rural citizens and the underprivileged. He urges the Election Commission and Supreme Court to ensure all adult citizens can qualify to vote.

The Economic Times 24 Jan 2026 4:10 pm

SIR in Bengal done in hurry, says Nobel laureate Amartya Sen

Kolkata: Nobel laureate Amartya Sen has voiced deep unease over the SIR process in West Bengal, warning that the exercise is being conducted with undue haste and may jeopardise democratic participation, particularly with the assembly elections approaching in a few months. The 92-year-old economist, speaking to PTI during an interview from Boston, reflected on 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 Siasat Daily 24 Jan 2026 3:21 pm

SIR in West Bengal done in hurry, may jeopardise democratic participation: Amartya Sen

The Nobel Laureate stressed that such an exercise must be conducted with care and adequate time, conditions he believes are missing in West Bengals case

The Hindu 24 Jan 2026 2:39 pm

SIR in Bengal done in hurry, may jeopardise democratic participation: Amartya Sen

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen expressed deep concern over West Bengal's electoral roll revision process, citing undue haste and inadequate time for voters. He warned this could jeopardize democratic participation, particularly with upcoming assembly elections. Sen highlighted the challenges faced by rural citizens in providing documentation, fearing exclusion for the underprivileged and poor.

The Economic Times 24 Jan 2026 2:28 pm

Cyber-fraud gang duping bank customers on pretext of KYC updates busted, 4 held: Delhi Police

NEW DELHI, Jan 24: The Delhi Police has busted a major multi-state cyber-fraud syndicate allegedly involved in duping bank customers on the pretext of updating their KYC details and arrested four men from Jharkhand and West Bengal, an official said on Saturday. The accused have been identified as Shiv Kumar Ravidas (22), Sanjay Ravidas (33), Dinesh Ravidas (29) and Shubham Kumar Barnwal (25), he said. The syndicate members posed as bank officials and created a sense of urgency among the [] The post Cyber-fraud gang duping bank customers on pretext of KYC updates busted, 4 held: Delhi Police appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 24 Jan 2026 1:44 pm

Adjourn West Bengal SIR hearing, file FIR if attacked: CEO

West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer has directed district officials to immediately file FIRs against any destruction of public property or attacks on staff during SIR-related hearings. Hearings will be adjourned if violence persists, requiring CEO approval to resume. This directive follows an incident in Murshidabad where an MLA was not named in an FIR despite alleged vandalism and hate speech.

The Times of India 24 Jan 2026 3:27 am

Three minor girls rescued in West Champaran, two held

West Champaran police successfully rescued three minor girls and apprehended two individuals from West Bengal suspected of child trafficking. Acting on a tip, a joint team intercepted Niyoti Devi and Nagesh Bhuinya, who were reportedly luring the girls to West Bengal. Both have been jailed on human trafficking charges.

The Times of India 23 Jan 2026 11:59 pm

Had Netaji been alive, ECI would have called him for SIR hearing: Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday alleged a conspiracy behind the ongoing special intensive revision of electoral rolls, claiming that nearly two crore names could be deleted from the states voter list. Speaking at a programme marking Netaji Subhash Chandra Boses birth anniversary in Kolkata, she said 58 lakh names had already been removed and 1.38 crore flagged under logical discrepancies out of a total 7.66 crore voters.

The Economic Times 23 Jan 2026 11:37 pm

Tamil Nadu achieved historical growth by overcoming obstacles created by BJP-led centre: MK Stalin

Taking strong exception to the comments by the PM at a rally of NDA in Maduranthakam, Stalin asked Modi to ponder how states such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana, Karnataka and West Bengal, where the double engine has not entered, were registering growth.

The Economic Times 23 Jan 2026 11:37 pm

Bengal SIR: EC orders FIRs against negligent BLOs, warns DEOs on law and order

The Election Commission of India has mandated FIRs and legal action against negligent Booth Level Officers during the SIR process. District Election Officers are instructed to suspend and initiate departmental proceedings for insubordination or dereliction of duty. West Bengal's CEO cautioned DEOs against delays in filing FIRs for law and order issues during Bengal SIR.

The Economic Times 23 Jan 2026 10:32 pm

Thousands in Bengal receive SIR notices over unusually high number of children linked to electors

West Bengal Congress president Subhankar Sarkar flags arbitrary threshold setting by the Election Commission and points out that the number of electors with six or more electors linked to them as children stood at 2,06,056, whereas, if the threshold is raised to 10, the number was only 8,682

The Hindu 23 Jan 2026 8:55 pm

3 to 4 people dying by suicide in Bengal everyday due to SIR: Mamata

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday, January 23, claimed that three to four people are dying by suicide everyday in the state, due to anxiety over the ongoing SIR exercise. Banerjee, addressing a programme at Red Road here on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose, asserted that 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 Siasat Daily 23 Jan 2026 4:37 pm

BJP Insulting Icons, Distorting History: Mamata Banerjee's Big Attack

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP and the central government of insulting the national icons like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, and BR Ambedkar.

NDTV 23 Jan 2026 2:59 pm

Nipah virus outbreak: 100 people quarantined in West Bengal to contain deadly zoonotic virus with high fatality. Check how it spreads, signs, symptoms and treatment

Nipah virus outbreak: As many as 100 people have sent to quarantine in West Bengal to contain the spread of the deadly Nipah virus in the state. Five people have been infected, and the two nurses remain in critical condition. The Nipah virus is zoonotic, spreading between animals and people, and there is no treatment and vaccine for the infection.

The Economic Times 23 Jan 2026 1:51 pm

Three to four people dying in West Bengal every day due to SIR anxiety: Mamata

More than 110 people have already died; every day, three to four people are taking their own lives out of SIR anxiety, says West Bengal CM

The Hindu 23 Jan 2026 1:47 pm

SIR anxiety led to over 110 deaths in Bengal, Election Commission must answer: Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that three to four people are dying by suicide daily in the state. This is attributed to anxiety surrounding the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. Banerjee asserted that the Election Commission and the central government must take responsibility for these deaths.

The Economic Times 23 Jan 2026 1:45 pm

Three to four people dying by suicide in West Bengal everyday due to SIR anxiety: Mamata

Kolkata, Jan 23: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday claimed that three to four people are dying by suicide everyday in the state due to anxiety over the ongoing SIR exercise. Banerjee, addressing a programme at Red Road here on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose, asserted that the Election Commission and the central government must take responsibility for the deaths. More than 110 people have already died; everyday three to four people are [] The post Three to four people dying by suicide in West Bengal everyday due to SIR anxiety: Mamata appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 23 Jan 2026 1:29 pm

From football to literature: Bonds that bind Argentina & West Bengal

Argentina and West Bengal share a deep connection through football and Rabindranath Tagore. The Argentine Ambassador noted this at the Kolkata International Book Fair. He emphasized strong bilateral ties and increasing economic cooperation. India is now Argentina's sixth largest partner. Argentine exports to India have reached new records. Both nations are experiencing significant growth and cooperation.

The Economic Times 23 Jan 2026 12:13 pm

WebQoof Recap: Around PM Modi, General Upendra Dwivedi, West Bengal & More

Read Team WebQoof's recap to find out the most viral pieces of misinformation from this week.

The Quint 23 Jan 2026 12:05 pm

Bengal SIR: ECI asks micro-observers, SROs, to report cases of deviations

Amid reports of unlisted identity documents being accepted as authentic ones during the hearing sessions on the claims and objections to the draft voters list in West Bengal, the Election Commission of India has directed the special roll observers (SROs) and the micro-observers to report such cases to the ECI daily. Insiders from the office 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 Siasat Daily 23 Jan 2026 11:13 am

Mamata pays homage to Bose on birth anniversary, urges Centre to declassify all files related to him

Kolkata, Jan 23 (PTI) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday paid tribute to Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary, and urged the central government to declassify all remaining documents related to the legendary freedom fighter. Banerjee, in a post on X, also said that even after decades, the mystery surrounding his disappearance remains unsolved. On the birth anniversary of Deshnayak Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, I offer my heartfelt respect and salutations to him, she said. It is our collective misfortune that the mystery of Netajis disappearance has not been solved even today. We do not know what

The Sen Times 23 Jan 2026 10:27 am

Bengal SIR: ECI directs micro-observers, SROs on document authentication

Kolkata: Amid reports of unlisted identity documents being accepted as authentic ones during the hearing sessions on the claims and objections to the draft voters list in West Bengal, the Election Commission of India has directed the special roll observers (SROs) and the micro-observers to report such cases to the ECI daily. Insiders from 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 Siasat Daily 23 Jan 2026 10:03 am

Bank holiday today: Are banks open or closed in your state for Basanta Panchami, birthday of Netaji Subhas Chandra? Check state-wise list

Banks in Tripura, Odisha, and West Bengal are closed on Friday, January 23, 2026, due to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's birthday, Saraswati Puja, Vir Surendrasai Jayanti, and Basanta Panchami. These state-specific holidays are among several observed in January, varying by local festivals and celebrations.

The Economic Times 23 Jan 2026 7:01 am

Your Agency Vs My Police Kiski Laathi Aur Kiski Bhains?

Poonam I Kaushish What is it about yesterdays Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and todays Enforcement Directorate (ED) that it is always in the eye of the storm? Wherein, its fatal attraction for political cover-ups, clean chits, hit-ins and fool proof surety for law enforcers to become law breakers has earned it an ignominious nickname: Election Dhakosla. With the devil taking the hindmost! Last weeks drama in West Bengal bears this out when ED raided several locations in Kolkata [] The post Your Agency Vs My Police Kiski Laathi Aur Kiski Bhains? appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 23 Jan 2026 4:10 am

Amrit Bharat from Bengaluru to West Bengal starts Jan 24

The Times of India 23 Jan 2026 12:13 am

WB HS exam 2026: WBCHSE releases important notice related to admit card and paper, check details here

The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) announced the 2026 12th board exams schedule. Semester 4 and Semester 3 supplementary exams will run from February 12 to 27. Students will get 10 extra minutes for reading papers. Admit cards will be available January 28, and Sanskrit Part 2 questions can be answered in Sanskrit, Bangla, or English. Textbooks release begins January 22.

The Times of India 22 Jan 2026 8:17 pm

12 sailors rescued from sinking Bangladeshi vessel in West Bengal river

Officials said they are examining whether poor visibility due to fog or a mechanical fault led to the mishap

The Hindu 22 Jan 2026 5:07 pm

EC directs FIR against TMC MLA Monirul Islam over Farakka vandalism

The Election Commission has ordered an FIR against Farakka MLA Monirul Islam following vandalism at a BDO office. Separately, the ECI has sought an explanation from the West Bengal Chief Secretary. This is regarding disciplinary action taken against four officials. The Commission stated the proceedings were procedurally irregular and lacked mandatory consultation. Complete case records have been requested for review.

The Economic Times 22 Jan 2026 5:00 pm

Amrit Bharat Express train launch: PM Modi to inaugurate three new train services for Kerala this week, check routes, stoppages

Three new train services and a passenger train service will be launched in Kerala to connect Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and other key routes. The services will commence from Thiruvananthapuram, Thambaram and Thrissur stations by PM Modi.

DNA India 22 Jan 2026 4:38 pm

NIA court sentences man to 10 years of imprisonment in Bengal's LeT recruitment module case

The National Investigation Agency took over the case from the West Bengal Police in April 2020 and arrested Sayyad M. Idris, along with another person

The Hindu 22 Jan 2026 3:23 pm

Supreme Court hearing on SIR LIVE updates: ECI to conclude arguments against West Bengal petitions

Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi on Wednesday submitted that the SIR 2025 was sustainable under Article 324 read with Section 21(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950

The Hindu 22 Jan 2026 1:47 pm

NIA court sentences man to 10 years of imprisonment in Bengals LeT recruitment module case

Kolkata, Jan 22: An NIA court here has sentenced a man to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment in a case linked to a Pakistan-sponsored conspiracy to recruit and radicalise Muslim youths in West Bengal for the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit, officials said on Thursday. The Special NIA Court, Kolkata, on Wednesday pronounced the sentence for Sayyad M Idris of Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka after he was convicted in the LeT recruitment module case under various sections of the Indian [] The post NIA court sentences man to 10 years of imprisonment in Bengals LeT recruitment module case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 22 Jan 2026 1:00 pm

NIA Court Awards 10-Year RI to Key Accused in LeT Recruitment Case

New Delhi, Jan 22: A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court on Wednesday sentenced a key accused to ten years of rigorous imprisonment (RI) in a Pakistan-linked case relating to recruitment and radicalisation of Muslim youth for the banned Laskar-e-Taiba terror organisation in West Bengal. Sayyad M. Idris of the Uttara Kannada district of [] The post NIA Court Awards 10-Year RI to Key Accused in LeT Recruitment Case appeared first on Northlines .

The Northlines 22 Jan 2026 12:22 pm

Nitin Nabin Rolls Out Bengal Strategy, Targets 15 Years Of Trinamool Rule

Newly appointed Bharatiya Janata Party national president Nitin Nabin has wasted little time in signalling his priorities, convening his first major organisational meeting with West Bengal leaders

NDTV 22 Jan 2026 11:15 am

Display West Bengal discrepancies, unmapped list by Jan 24: EC

Following a Supreme Court directive, the Election Commission has instructed the Bengal CEO to display names of electors with 'logical discrepancies' and 'unmapped' status by January 24. People in these categories can submit documents via authorized representatives, with authorities ensuring smooth proceedings and no law and order issues.

The Times of India 22 Jan 2026 4:25 am

West Bengal run riot

Agencies Assam Defending champions West Bengal began their campaign in the 79th National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy with a 40 win over Nagaland in a Group A match at the Dhakuakhana Stadium. The 33-time champions struck early through Robi Hansda, who headed home from close range in the second minute after meeting Juweel Ahmed []

The Navhind Times 22 Jan 2026 1:52 am

CAT directs West Bengal to resubmit DGP panel names to UPSC

The Central Administrative Tribunal has directed the West Bengal government to resubmit names for the Director General of Police selection by January 23. The UPSC will convene a meeting by January 28 to prepare the panel. This comes as the current acting DGP, Rajeev Kumar, retires on January 31.

The Economic Times 22 Jan 2026 12:13 am

CEC Warns Against Disruptions; Mandates Hearings at Public Offices in Bengal

Nobel Laureate Economist Amartya Sen is among those persons who have been issued notice to appear personally during ongoing SIR in West Bengal.

Deccan Chronicle 21 Jan 2026 11:14 pm

Bengal SIR: ECI warns strict action, orders smooth hearings after SC directive

Meanwhile, the ECI simultaneously released a detailed guideline and directed the West Bengal CEOs office to display the names of persons with Logical Discrepancies and unmapped by January 24, as per the SC order.

The Economic Times 21 Jan 2026 10:27 pm

Confident of winning Bengal, Tamil Nadu: BJP President Nitin Nabin

New Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday, January 21, asserted that it will form its government in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu for the first time by defeating the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), respectively in the upcoming assembly polls. In a statement, the saffron party said, based 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 Siasat Daily 21 Jan 2026 9:05 pm

SIR deadline likely be extended in Bengal as EC reviews top court directives: Official

Kolkata, Jan 21 (PTI) The EC is considering extending the deadline for the SIR exercise in West Bengal, with the publication of the final voters list likely to be deferred beyond the scheduled date of February 14, an official of the poll panel said on Wednesday. Compliance with multiple directions issued by the Supreme Court may make it difficult to adhere to the existing timeline, he said, adding that no final decision has been taken so far. Implementing all the Supreme Courts instructions within the existing timeline is challenging. Additional time may be required, he added. The Election Commission (EC)

The Sen Times 21 Jan 2026 7:11 pm

Ayushman Bharat will deny 90% people from availing scheme benefits in West Bengal: TMC's Abhishek

Had Bengal implemented Ayushman Bharat, only 90 lakh out of its 10 crore people would have qualified to receive the scheme's benefits, leaving the remaining 9.1 crore citizens high and dry, says TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee

The Hindu 21 Jan 2026 6:10 pm

1.9 haemoglobin, broken ribs, starvation: 10-year-old house help on ventilator after alleged torture by CRPF couple in Noida

A 10-year-old girl from West Bengal fights for life in a Greater Noida hospital. Police allege a CRPF constable and his wife brutally beat and starved her. Doctors found severe injuries and malnutrition. The couple has been arrested. The constable is suspended pending investigation. The child welfare committee is overseeing her care.

The Economic Times 21 Jan 2026 4:52 pm

Does This Clip Show a Vandalised Statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Bangladesh? No!

Viral video of Gandhi statue vandalism is from West Bengal, not Bangladesh.

The Quint 21 Jan 2026 2:48 pm

Supreme Court hearing on SIR LIVE updates: 'Logical discrepancies' in West Bengal electoral rolls 'defy science', EC tells Court

The top court will separately hear on the constitutionality of the electoral roll revision exercise in several States

The Hindu 21 Jan 2026 1:36 pm

West Bengal SIR shows logical discrepancies that defy scientific possibilities: EC to Supreme Court

Two electors were found with more than 200 children, seven with more than a 100 children, 10 with more than 50 children while another 10 with more than 40

The Hindu 21 Jan 2026 1:28 pm

No hassle over logical discrepancies: CM Mamata backs new SC directives on SIR; urges officials to ease voter hearings

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has directed district magistrates to prevent voter inconvenience during electoral roll revisions, emphasizing adherence to Supreme Court orders. She stressed accepting all valid documents and making alternative arrangements for hearings. The Chief Minister also highlighted that state development programs must not be disrupted during this process.

The Times of India 21 Jan 2026 9:56 am

Noida house horror: 10-year-old domestic help on life support; abandoned by father, mother mentally ill, kin dont want her

A 10-year-old girl, employed as a domestic helper, is fighting for her life in a Greater Noida hospital after being severely beaten and starved by a CRPF constable and his wife. The child, brought from West Bengal 40 days ago, suffered fractured ribs, head wounds, and extreme malnutrition. The couple has been arrested, and the constable suspended pending investigation.

The Times of India 21 Jan 2026 8:48 am

Indias First Vande Bharat Sleeper Fully Booked Within Hours Of Ticket SaleCheck Launch Date, Route & Timings

Indias first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train connects Howrah Junction in West Bengal with Kamakhya Junction (Guwahati) in Assam.

News18 21 Jan 2026 8:27 am

Bengal SIR: ECI appoints 12 more roll observers

Kolkata: The Election Commission of India (ECI), on Tuesday, appointed 12 more special electoral roll observers for West Bengal to review the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) in the state. These 12 special electoral roll observers are Harsh Mangla, Nand Kumarum, P Bala Kiran, Prasanna R, Raghav Langer, Ravi Shanakar, Shashank Mishra, V. Kiran Gopal, 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 Siasat Daily 21 Jan 2026 7:40 am

Illegal Migration Challenge

Illegal migration into Indias eastern border states, particularly West Bengal, is not a recent phenomenon. It has unfolded steadily over decades, largely unchecked, creating deep demographic, social, and administrative consequences. The most visible impact of sustained illegal migration is the alteration of demographic balance in several border districts. In parts of West Bengal, locals have increasingly found themselves numerically outpaced by illegal migrants, leading to cultural, linguistic, and social shifts. What was once gradual has now become stark, feeding anxieties [] The post Illegal Migration Challenge appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Daily Excelsior 21 Jan 2026 4:10 am

DC Edit | ECI Has To Revisit Its Logic Behind West Bengal SIR

The ECIs response, however, was not in a way that can inspire confidence in the minds of the people

Deccan Chronicle 21 Jan 2026 12:22 am

Mobs vandalise BDO offices as violent protests against SIR continue in West Bengal

Protests erupt a day after SC observation that SIR should be transparent, not cause inconvenience; BJP, TMC supporters clash over Form 7 submissions

The Hindu 20 Jan 2026 10:43 pm

Mob Fury at 2 BDO Offices over SIR in West Bengal

Hearing of the voters of booth no 53 and 57 of Hathachhi Panchayat was underway then.

Deccan Chronicle 20 Jan 2026 8:57 pm

CalcuttaHigh Court expresses concern over recurring violence at Murshidabad

The Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal AssemblySuvenduAdhikari welcomes theorderby aDivision Bench presidedoverby Chief Justice of the Calcutta HC Sujoy Paul

The Hindu 20 Jan 2026 8:49 pm

SIR chaos: West Bengal districts erupt in protest; demonstrators allege 'harassment,' forces deployed

Protests erupted in West Bengal districts over alleged harassment during electoral roll revision, with roads blocked and tyres set ablaze. The Supreme Court stressed transparency in the process, while demonstrators claim genuine voters are being unfairly targeted with logical discrepancies notices. Authorities have increased force deployment in affected areas.

The Times of India 20 Jan 2026 5:51 pm

Trinamool Congress says West Bengal will resist moves that make voting burdensome

SIR is Software Intensive Rigging, alleges Trinamool Congress, as the party seeks more transparency in the process

The Hindu 20 Jan 2026 4:59 pm

Migrant Worker's Death: Calcutta High Court Orders Central Forces In Violence-Hit Beldanga

The Calcutta High Court directed the West Bengal government to ensure effective use of the central forces already deployed in Murshidabad district

News18 20 Jan 2026 4:42 pm

West Bengal: TMC alleges software intensive rigging in SIR process

The Trinamool Congress has labeled West Bengal's electoral roll revision as 'Software Intensive Rigging'. Party leaders are demanding greater transparency from the Election Commission. They want the commission to release transcripts of recent meetings. The Supreme Court has also directed the EC to ensure the process is transparent and does not inconvenience voters.

The Economic Times 20 Jan 2026 4:08 pm