No armed security in West Bengal Assembly except for chief minister: Calcutta HC rules
Following Calcutta High Court directives, the West Bengal Assembly has banned armed security, including private and CISF personnel, inside the premises, with an exception for the Chief Minister's security detail. A resolution addressing atrocities against Bengali-speaking migrants in BJP-ruled states will be introduced and debated over two days.
WBJEE counselling 2025: WBJEE counselling 2025 registration and choice-filling ends today on wbjeeb.nic.in. Eligible candidates must complete registration using their WBJEE 2025 application or roll number, submit personal and academic details, pay the application fee, and select at least 20 course and college options. The first round of seat allotment results will be announced on September 3. Over 51,000 BTech seats are available across government engineering colleges, universities, and pharmacy institutes in West Bengal.
West Bengal JEE Counselling 2025: Round 1 Registration Ends Tomorrow, Apply Here
WBJEE Round 1 Registration 2025: WBJEEB will close the round 1 registration process for WBJEE tomorrow, September 1, 2025.
Metro connectivity changes Kolkatas commute
Three new stretches of the Kolkata Metro Railway, which became operational in the last week of August 2025, have brought relief to passengers of the bustling metropolis. Moyurie Som takes stock of what the new network brings to West Bengals capital, and whether the authorities are prepared to meet the challenges that come with it
FIR Filed Against TMC MP for Her Objectionable Remarks Against Union Home Minister
The TMC had purportedly made the objectionable statement against Mr. Shah while speaking to reporters in Nadia district in West Bengal on August 28.
FIR against TMC MP Moitra for 'objectionable' remarks against Shah
RAIPUR: A first information report (FIR) has been registered against Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra in Chhattisgarh's Raipur for her alleged objectionable remarks against Union Home Minister Amit Shah, police said on Sunday. Based on a complaint lodged by a local resident, a case was registered against Moitra at the Mana police station on Saturday under sections 196 (promoting enmity between different groups on the grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc) and 197 (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), an official said. Moitra sparked a controversy after allegedly saying that if Amit Shah fails to stop infiltration from Bangladesh, he first thing you should do is cut Amit Shah's head and put it on your table. She allegedly made the statement while speaking to reporters in West Bengal's Nadia district on the sidelines of an event on Thursday. PTI, however, couldn't independently verify the authenticity of the video. The TMC MP alleged that the Union government was shirking its responsibilities on border security. The police official said that the complainant, Gopal Samanto, alleged that Moitra's remarks were objectionable and unconstitutional. The complaint also stated that a large number of Bangladeshi refugees were settled in the Mana Camp area in Raipur in 1971, and Moitra's statement has created fear among them, as such remarks may provoke anger from other communities against them, the official said.
Dhankhar seeks Rajasthan MLA pension after VP resignation
JAIPUR : Barely a month after resigning as Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar has applied for a pension as a former member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. Dhankhar, who represented the Kishangarh constituency in Ajmer district from 1993 to 1998 as a Congress MLA, has submitted his request to the Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat in Jaipur. If approved, he will receive a monthly pension of `42,000, along with other benefits available to former legislators in the state At 74, he joined the BJP in 2003 and had been receiving the MLA pension until 2019 when he was appointed Governor of West Bengal. After stepping down as Vice President in July citing health reasons, Dhankhar has largely stayed out of the public eye. Opposition questioned his resignation, but home minister Amit Shah said it was due to health reasons. Dhankhars political journey spans decades, and his pension application is under review.
West Bengal PUBDET Counselling Schedule 2025 Released, Registration Starts September 2
WBJEEB PUBDET 2025: WBJEEB has released the counselling schedule on its website. Registration will start on September 2.
Incessant rain triggers landslides in northern West Bengal; National Highway 10 closed
The closure of NH10 has affected the main route connecting Sikkim and West Bengal; restoration work is underway
Jagdeep Dhankhar applies for pension, claims MLA benefits in Rajasthan - why it was stopped in 2019
Jagdeep Dhankhar, after resigning as Vice President citing health issues, has applied to resume his pension as a former legislator in Rajasthan. He previously received this pension until becoming the governor of West Bengal in 2019. Now 74, Dhankhar is entitled to a monthly pension of Rs 42,000, with the Rajasthan Assembly secretariat processing his application following his resignation.
Jagdeep Dhankhar applies for pension as former MLA after resigning as Vice President
JAIPUR: Barely a month after resigning as Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar has submitted an application to claim pension as a former member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. Dhankhar had represented the Kishangarh constituency in Ajmer district as a Congress MLA from 1993 to 1998. Sources have confirmed that the Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat in Jaipur has begun reviewing his request. If approved, Dhankhar will start receiving a monthly pension of 42,000 along with other benefits available to all former legislators in the state. 74-year-old Dhankhar, who joined the BJP in 2003, was receiving an MLAs pension until 2019 when he was appointed Governor of West Bengal, eventually becoming Vice President. Citing health reasons, Dhankhar had quit as Vice President on July 21. According to officials, the Rajasthan Assembly Secretariat has begun processing his pension request. Since resigning as Vice President, Dhankhar has largely stayed away from public life, prompting speculation in political circles ahead of the monsoon session of Parliament. Opposition parties have repeatedly raised questions about his sudden resignation and absence, while former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has sought clarity, citing Dhankhars connection to the state. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, however, clarified that Dhankhar stepped down due to health reasons and dismissed opposition allegations as baseless. Dhankhars political career spans several decades and diverse roles. He served as a Janata Dal MP from Jhunjhunu from 1989 to 1991 and was Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs in the Chandrashekhar government. In 1993, he was elected as a Congress MLA from Kishangarh. Later, he served as Governor of West Bengal from 2019 to 2022 before becoming Vice President of India, a position he held from 2022 until his resignation in 2025. The Assembly Secretariat is examining Dhankhars pension application according to state rules. Former legislators are entitled to pensions and other facilities based on their tenure. In Dhankhars case, his five-year service makes him eligible for a monthly pension of 42,000, along with medical coverage, travel allowances, and other entitlements. An official from the Vidhan Sabha, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, This is a routine process. Former MLAs and MPs are entitled to pensions, but it is suspended while they hold a position of profit. After vacating such posts, formalities must be completed to resume the pension. In addition to the pension, former MLAs in Rajasthan receive free medical treatment for themselves and their families, allowances for official or assembly-related travel, and participation in Assembly-organised programmes. Dhankhars application has reignited discussion in political circles, with observers viewing it as another chapter in his long political journey. The Assembly Secretariat is expected to announce a decision on the matter soon.
Jagdeep Dhankhar applies for pension as former Rajasthan legislator
Dhankhar, who served as a Congress MLA from Kishangarh between 1993 and 1998, had been receiving pension benefits until July 2019, when he was appointed Governor of West Bengal.
Jagdeep Dhankhar applies for pension as former MLA in Rajasthan
Dhankhar, who represented the Kishangarh Assembly constituency as a Congress MLA from 1993 to 1998, received pension as a former legislator until July 2019. It was discontinued after he was appointed the governor of West Bengal. With his tenure as the vice-president ending following his resignation citing health issues on July 21, Dhankhar has applied afresh to the Rajasthan Assembly secretariat seeking resumption of his pension as a former MLA, the officials said.
WBSSC recruitment 2025: The West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) has announced recruitment for 8,477 non-teaching posts across Group C and Group D categories. Applications will be accepted online from September 16 to October 31, 2025, via the official website westbengalssc.com. The selection process includes a written exam, skill test (if applicable), and document verification. Eligible candidates aged 1840 can apply. Detailed notification, including eligibility, fees, and salary structure, is available on the official portal.
Eight opposition-ruled states extend support to cut in number of GST rate slabs: Congress
Eight opposition-ruled states, including Karnataka and West Bengal, back a reduction in GST rates. They want lower rates for essential goods. These states are requesting compensation for five years, starting in 2024-25. They also propose that revenue from levies on luxury items be fully transferred to the states.
Non-NDA states: Current GST rationalisation plan will lead to revenue loss
Seven non-NDA states have rejected the proposed GST rate rationalization, fearing significant revenue losses ranging from Rs 85,000 crore to Rs 2 lakh crore. These states, including Karnataka and West Bengal, anticipate up to a 20% GST revenue decline if the four-slab structure is replaced with a two-tier system.
SC seeks Centres response on plea against detention of Bengali-speaking migrants
The Supreme Court has requested a comprehensive affidavit from the central government within a week regarding the alleged detention of Bengali-speaking migrant workers across various states, prompted by a PIL filed by the West Bengal Migrant Welfare Board. The court also instructed the Calcutta High Court to expedite hearings and citizenship decisions for cases like Sunali Khatun's.
Want border wall to check illegal immigrants?
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday in an observation asked the Centre whether it wanted to build a border wall like in the US to prevent illegal immigrants from entering the country. The top court asked the Centre to apprise it about the standard operating procedures (SOP) adopted by the governments in deporting illegal migrants, especially to Bangladesh. A three-judge bench of the apex court headed by Justice Surya Kant, and also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi, was hearing a petition filed by the West Bengal Migrant Welfare Board (WBMWB) alleging detention of Bengali-speaking migrant workers on suspicion of being Bangladeshi nationals. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, objected to the petition of WBMWB and questioned that why no aggrieved parties were present before the court. This court should not entertain such kind of petitions filed by these organisations and associations, which may be supported by some state governments. There are no aggrieved parties before the court. We know how some state governments thrive on illegal immigrants. Demographic changes have become a serious issue, he said. The bench, however, told Mehta that it might be the reason that those who aggrieved were perhaps unable to reach the apex court for want of resources. But, Mehta said such public spirited persons (without referring to Bhushan) must help them in approaching the court besides helping people in the US where the issue over illegal immigration was big. Bhushan alleged Bengali speaking persons were being picked up and forcefully pushed into Bangladesh. This has very drastic consequences... sometimes BSF people say you run to the other side or we will shoot you. Similarly, the Border Guard of Bangladesh, also threatens and says if you dont run to the other side, they will shoot, Bhushan said.
Moitra slams Shah on Bangladeshi influx, BJP files police complaint
KOLKATA: TMC MP Mahua Moitra has triggered a fresh political controversy with her remarks against Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing him of failing to check infiltration from Bangladesh and allegedly stating his head should be cut off and put on the table. The BJP, which was quick to hit back, slammed Moitra for her distasteful and hate remarks and wondered whether it was TMCs official stand. Speaking to reporters in West Bengals Nadia district on the sidelines of an event on Thursday, Moitra alleged that the Union government was shirking its responsibilities on border security. The the authenticity of the video, however, couldnt be identified. They are repeatedly talking about infiltrators; but the border of India is protected by five forces, and those are the Home Ministrys responsibility, she said. Referring to PM Narendra Modis Independence Day address, she remarked, Standing at Red Fort, the PM himself said infiltrators are causing demographic changes. But even as he was saying this, his Home Minister was standing in the front row, smiling and clapping.
West Bengal to add 14,000 polling booths next years Assembly polls
The number of polling booths in the state is about 80,661; if 13,816 booths are added to this, the total number of booths will be 94,497.
BJP supporters vandalise West Bengal Congress headquarters in Kolkata
West Bengal Congress president Subhankar Sarkar has demanded arrest of BJP leader Rakesh Singh who led the attack
West Bengal CM hails Supreme Courts intervention on detention of migrant workers
PIL on detention of migrant workers was filed before the Supreme Court by the West Bengal Migrant Welfare Board
Bengal poll chief to accept objections from parties till September 8
West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer will consider objections to booth reorganization until September 8, following discontent from major political parties regarding the proposed changes for the 2026 assembly polls. The state anticipates nearly 13,816 additional polling booths. Parties like Trinamool Congress and Congress protested the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. BJP raised concerns about booth level officer recruitment.
Supreme Court seeks clarity from government if Bengali speakers are presumed as foreigners
The petition filed by an NGO alleged that labourers from West Bengal were detained without due verification, procedural safeguards or compliance with established inter-State coordination protocols
Bihar SIR: Eight border districts account for most notices being issued for unsatisfactory documents
Districts sharing borders with Nepal and West Bengal have highest number of voters who did not submit needed documents or whose eligibility and citizenship are under doubt; hearings to begin next week
BJP Men Attack West Bengal Congress Head Office in Kolkata
Six arrested after vandalism at Bidhan Bhavan; Congress, TMC, CPM condemn violence
West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer is accepting objections regarding booth bifurcation until September 8, following political parties' discontent over the proposed polling station reorganization for the 2026 assembly polls. Parties like Trinamool and Congress protested against SIR in Bengal, emphasizing impartiality and preventing voter deprivation.
West Bengal assembly is set to convene a special session from September 1-4, addressing critical issues. The state government is expected to bring a censure motion condemning the alleged mistreatment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in BJP-governed states. Furthermore, a resolution will be tabled to protest the Election Commission's special intensive revision of electoral rolls.
Green Mobility: Odisha Ranks Fifth In India, Plans To Enhance E-Bus Fleet To Over 1,000
Odisha has outpaced the neighbouring states in this field West Bengal (391), Andhra Pradesh (238), Chhattisgarh (215) and Jharkhand (46), it claimed.
Mamata hails SC directive to Calcutta HC on expediting hearing migrant workers plea
KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday hailed a development in the Supreme Court where a directionhas been issued to hear the plea of the migrant workers on priority in the Calcutta High Court, which she termed as a huge relief to the detained workers. During hearing of a petition filed by the West Bengal Migrant Welfare Board alleging detention of Bengali-speaking migrant workers on suspicion of being Bangladeshi nationals, a bench of the Supreme Court on Friday directed the Calcutta High Court to take up the matter expeditiously and clarified that pendency of these proceedings would not come in the way of the high court adjudicating the habeas corpus petition. Welcoming the development in a post on X, Banerjee said, Today (29 Aug 2025), the Hon'ble Supreme Court heard a PIL on the detention of migrant workers from Bengal. The Apex Court acknowledged Bengal's historic role as a border State - a land that has given refuge, strength, and culture through generations. A direction has been issued to hear the plea of the migrant workers on priority in the High Court - this comes as a huge relief to the detained workers. The West Bengal Government and the Trinamool Congress have alleged that Bengali speaking workers from West Bengal are being harassed and tortured on suspicion of being Bangladeshis in different BJP-ruled states. Banerjee herself has repeatedly attacked the BJP over the issue. A bench of Justices Surya Kant, Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi of the Supreme Court on Friday outlined the same legacy of cultural and linguistic heritage shared by Bengali and Punjabi speaking Indians with the neighbouring countries speaking the same language but divided by borders. Welcoming the observation of the apex court, Banerjee said, The recognition of Bengal's unique context gives hope to countless Bengali-speaking workers across our motherland, whose labour and sacrifice strengthen families across India. I stand firmly by them. We repose full faith in the judiciary to ensure dignity, fairness, and constitutional justice for every worker from Bengal. According to political observers, todays development at the top court has come as a shot in the arm of the Trinamool Congress, which has intensified its attacks on the BJP over the Bengali identity issue before the Assembly elections in West Bengal due April-May, next year. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court today also asked the Centre whether it wanted to build a border wall like in the US to prevent illegal immigrants from entering India. Earlier,On August 14, the Supreme Court refused to pass any interim order on the PIL with regard to the detention of alleged Bangladeshi nationals. The PIL said, Instant petition challenges the legality of such detentions of migrant workers, particularly in light of the Ministry of Home Affairs' Letter dated May 2, 2025, which authorises inter-state verification and detention of suspected illegal immigrants. The plea said migrant workers from West Bengal, predominantly employed in low-income and informal sectors in various states, are facing systemic social exclusion based on linguistic basis, economic insecurity, and precarious living conditions in detainer states.
Supreme Court examines detentions of Bengali-speaking migrant workers
The Supreme Court has turned its gaze upon a contentious petition filed by the West Bengal Migrant Workers Welfare Board, which alleges arbitrary detention and deportation of Bengali-speaking individuals under the pretext of identifying them as Bangladeshi nationals. The plea underscores the plight of migrant workers, many of whom, it contends, have been deprived of [] The post Supreme Court examines detentions of Bengali-speaking migrant workers appeared first on India Legal .
Opposition states demand compensation for revenue loss due to Centres GST reform proposal
NEW DELHI, Aug 29: Opposition-ruled states on Friday said the Centres proposal for GST rate rejig could result in a revenue loss of about Rs 1.5 crore to Rs 2 lakh crore and demanded compensation for the losses incurred by them. Finance ministers from eight states Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and West Bengal decided to present their proposal to the GST Council at the next meeting on September 3 and 4. Their [] The post Opposition states demand compensation for revenue loss due to Centres GST reform proposal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
ASI to promote Indian crafts through souvenir shops at selected monuments
NEW DELHI: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has drawn up plans to set up dedicated souvenir shops at selected centrally protected monuments, museums and sites to boost awareness of Indian cultural crafts and strengthen livelihood opportunities for artisans. As per the plan, existing publication counters at ASI sites will be converted into refurbished souvenir shops, where only made-in-India craft will be sold. The souvenirs will range from region-specific handicrafts to replicas and models of antiquities such as sculptures, coins, deities, and significant elements of monuments. Agencies selected through a bidding process will also be tasked with managing operations, developing cross-promotional strategies to increase footfalls, and ensuring conservation of traditional crafts. The idea is not only to promote handicrafts, but also generate livelihood, employment and entrepreneurship, while encouraging technology start-ups, said officials. A variety of ASI publications; booklets about history of the monuments will also be available as usual. Officials further said that the initiative is aimed at creating a strong identity for heritage souvenirs by integrating Indias diverse crafts and skills with the cultural wealth of its monuments. The ASI intends to enhance interest and recognition of Indian cultural crafts and heritage leading to their conservation, development and sustaining livelihood of the associated artisans and their communities. It is expected that the initiative will leverage generating interest and promotion of heritage monuments. Handicrafts and souvenirs reflecting the tangible and intangible heritage of the region will be promoted, said officials. The ASI has identified clusters of monuments for the rollout, with bidders required to run shops across all sites within an allotted cluster. Officials added that the move would help create a self-sustaining ecosystem that links artisans, heritage, and tourism, while offering visitors meaningful keepsakes of their cultural journeys. There are 3,697 monuments including forts, palaces and tombs under ASI jurisdiction and over 140 of them are ticketed sites. At least 55 heritage sites are selected for the setting up of souvenir shops. The list include Red Fort (Delhi), Qutab Minar (Delhi), Hazarduari Palace & Museum (West Bengal), Gwalior Fort, Gol-Gumbaz (Karnataka), Ellora Caves (Maharashtra) ,Bekal Fort (Kerala), Akbars tomb (Uttar Pradesh) and Rudranath temple (Uttrakhand).
Delhi Police Busts Mobile Smuggling Racket, 8 Arrested, 294 Phones Seized
Delhi Police has arrested eight members of an interstate racket involved in smuggling stolen and snatched mobile phones to Bangladesh via West Bengal, officials said on Thursday.
Mamata Banerjee sees NRC conspiracy ahead of 2026 Bengal elections
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of deploying 500 teams from across India to conduct voter surveys in Bengal, alleging a conspiracy related to the National Register of Citizens (NRC) ahead of the 2026 elections.
Jharkhand forms high-level panel to probe land acquisition for Adani power project in Godda
RANCHI: In a significant development, the Jharkhand government has constituted a high-level committee to investigate the land acquisition process for the Adani Power Limited project in Godda. The committee will be chaired by the Chief Secretary and comprise nine other members. This panel will examine issues related to land acquisition, rehabilitation, environmental impact, and compensation provided to affected residents. It has been tasked with submitting a comprehensive report to the state government. The move follows the government's acknowledgment that, under the provisions of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (RFCTLARR), a detailed inquiry is necessary into environmental clearances, local employment generation, and the provision of public amenities. The committee will specifically review whether those displaced by the project received appropriate compensation, rehabilitation, and employment, as well as assess the broader socio-economic impacts of the power plant. MLA Pradeep Yadav welcomed the decision, stating that it signals hope and justice for the people of Godda. I was confident this government would take action. Chief Minister Hemant Soren deserves congratulations. This step has strengthened the peoples faith that they will now receive justice and proper compensation for the wrongs done to them, Yadav said. Local farmers and villagers have long protested the project, demanding fair compensation, proper rehabilitation, and employment opportunities. On the final day of the Monsoon Session of the Jharkhand Assembly, Pradeep Yadav raised the issue, questioning the legitimacy of the acquisition process and the current status of rehabilitation efforts. Previously, Yadav had written to the Chief Secretary, alleging serious violations of environmental norms by the Adani Power project. He also questioned the power tariff model, claiming that while the plants pricing is based on coal imported from Australia, it is allegedly using domestic coal from the Jharia range in West Bengal instead. The 1,600 MW Adani Power plant in Godda is notable for being the countrys first stand-alone power plant designated as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Coal for the project is officially expected to be imported from Australia via Odisha and transported by rail and road to the plant site. Although the coal will be processed in Jharkhand, the electricity generated is meant for export to Bangladesh. Over 1,000 acres of land spanning 10 villages in two blocks were acquired for the establishment of the plant. Meanwhile, opposition parties continued to mount pressure on the government over other land issues, including the Surya Hansda and Nagdi RIMS-II land disputes. On the final day of the session, BJP MLAs staged protests inside and outside the Assembly. BJP leader Babulal Marandi also demanded the withdrawal of cases filed against 85 individuals involved in the ongoing RIMS-II agitation at Nagri.
Delhi police busts racket smuggling stolen phones to Bangladesh; 8 arrested, 294 phones seized
NEW DELHI: Eight members of an inter-state racket have been arrested for allegedly smuggling stolen and snatched mobile phones to Bangladesh via West Bengal, police said on Thursday. The gang reportedly sourced stolen phones from pickpockets, robbers, and snatchers operating on buses across Delhi. These phones were then transported through Kolkata and smuggled into Bangladesh via the Indo-Bangladesh border. The operation was facilitated by an accused residing in the border area, who had strong local contacts and relatives in Bangladesh. Police recovered a total of 294 mobile phones worth approximately Rs 50 lakh. Of these, 45 phones were found linked to FIRs, and 30 phones to lost property reports. On 27 July, police received a tip-off regarding a gang involved in thefts on DTC buses along the MGMB Road. A trap was laid, and four individuals identified as Dinesh, Rizwan, Ravi, and Ajay were apprehended. Upon their arrest, 38 mobile phones were recovered. During interrogation, the suspects revealed they were supplying the phones to a man named Vichitra Puri, who was later apprehended on 7 August with five stolen phones. He disclosed that the stolen devices were being collected by Mojahir, who transported them to Kolkata. Further investigation revealed that Mojahir was in regular contact with Mohammad Khalid, a resident of Kolkata. A police team travelled to Kolkata and arrested Khalid on 21 August, recovering 30 mobile phones from his residence. He admitted these had been received from Mojahir during a visit on 12 August. Khalids mobile phone also contained contact details of several Bangladeshi nationals. According to his statement, Bangladeshi handlers would send their associates to collect the stolen phones. Khalid also admitted to having relatives in Bangladesh. Mojahir and his associate, Shivam Kumar Jha, frequently travelled to Kolkata, reportedly at least four times a month, as confirmed by their travel history. Both were detained late on 23 August, with 75 mobile phones recovered from them. So far, the investigation has established that Khalid, Mojahir, and Jha were operating in close coordination, using mobile phones for communication and conducting financial transactions via UPI platforms. Police said Khalid is believed to have received around 1,000 mobile phones from Mojahir over time. Digital analysis of Khalids mobile phone revealed three active Bangladeshi WhatsApp numbers, suspected to be used by foreign handlers to coordinate the smuggling. Efforts are ongoing to trace these individuals and determine their roles. To date, police have recovered 194 mobile phones from the gang, and an additional 100 phones through the CEIR Portal the Central Equipment Identity Register launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The portal allows users to block the IMEI numbers of stolen or snatched mobile phones by lodging complaints via the Delhi Police website, officials added.
The West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination Board (WBJEEB) has opened WBJEE counselling 2025, allowing eligible candidates to register online at wbjeeb.nic.in for seat allotment in undergraduate engineering courses. Registration began on August 28, with the first round results on September 3. Candidates must pay the seat acceptance fee by September 7, following mandatory registration and choice submission to secure admission.
Won't let anyone's voting rights be taken away: Mamata Banerjee
KOLKATA: Trinamool Congress Chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said that she wont let anyones voting rights be taken away. Addressing a rally of the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP), the students wing of the Trinamool Congress, Mamata reiterated that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is working at the behest of the BJP. You must yourself check whether your names are still there or have been struck off from the voters' list...You must ensure you have Aadhar cards, she told the rally. I will not let anyone take away people's voting rights till I am alive, she added. Mamata claimed that the BJP has deployed over 500 teams in West Bengal to conduct surveys aimed at deleting names of voters from the electoral rolls. They are doing door to door survey so as to find out whose names can be deleted. If someone comes to your door seeking information, don't give information. They will take details from you and delete your name. Go to your polling station and verify if your name is there or not. Keep your Aadhaar card with you. Aadhaar card has been made compulsory, she said. The EC is threatening our officers. Its jurisdiction is only for the three months during elections, not throughout the year, she claimed. Banerjee alleged that the BJP was trying to make people forget the role played by Bengalis during the freedom movement. If there is no Bengali language, then how does Jana Gana Mana become the national anthem? What is the language in which our national song Vande Mataram is written? They want people to forget the historical role played by Bengalis in the freedom movement. We will not tolerate this linguistic terror, she said, while alleging that the predecessors of the saffron party were agents of the British who gave undertakings to get out of jails. Continuing attacks on BJP, she further said, You take away people's rights. You oppress poor people by calling them Bangladeshis. I think poor people are my heart, my greatest talent. I don't accept caste. I accept humanity. Banerjee also alleged that the Central Agencies become hyper-active during election time. Earlier, no Central Agency worked at the behest of the BJP. The Agencies did not follow the instruction of any political party, she added. The Trinamool Congress Chairperson also hit out at the CPI(M)-led Left, accusing it of joining hands with the BJP to take on her. Earlier, addressing the TMCP foundation day rally at Mayo Road in Kolkata, Trinamool Congress National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee said, I would request you to keep protesting against SIR. If even one person is denied their right, then 10 lakh Bengalis will march to Delhi, gherao Rajpath, and prove their might. Exuding confidence that the BJP would not cross 50 seats in the 2026 Assembly elections in West Bengal, he stated, Everyone is against Trinamool: the judiciary, BJP, central agencies, ED, press, CBI, EC. But 10 crore Bengalis are for Trinamool. Come fight us: 10 crore Bengalis on one side and the Centres ED, CBI on the other. However, many seats we got last time, I can promise you we will win more this time.
Won't let anyone take away people's voting right till I am alive: CM Mamata
You torture poor people by calling them Bangladeshis. But to me, poor people are my biggest strength. I don't believe in caste or creed, I believe in humanity, says West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee
Bengal govt pushes to fill over 600 vacant poll posts after EC directive to fast-track appointments
KOLKATA: Acting on a directive from the Election Commission to fast-track appointments to crucial election-related posts that have remained vacant for months due to legal complications, the West Bengal government has set a Friday deadline for the purpose, an official said. According to the official, the district magistrates (DMs) have been directed by Chief Secretary Manoj Pant to assess the current status of appointments to the posts of electoral registration officers (EROs) and assistant electoral registration officers (AEROs) and complete the recruitment process by August 29. A meeting in this connection was held at the secretariat on Wednesday. Each assembly constituency requires one ERO, and a large number of these posts remain vacant due to delays caused by ongoing court cases, including those related to OBC reservations. A directive has been given to fast-track the appointments, the official said. Only Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) should be appointed as EROs, and where SDOs are unavailable, senior WBCS officers are to be assigned, he said. In addition, 610 AERO posts were currently vacant, secretariat sources said, adding that AEROs are typically selected from among extension officers in the blocks and the block-level officers of various departments. It has been decided that officers of equivalent rank from other departments may be entrusted with the role, subject to Election Commission approval, he said. The number of polling booths in the state has surged to nearly 95,000, necessitating an expansion in the number of booth-level officers (BLOs), a poll body official said. The state government has already begun this process with the approval of the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office, the official said.
Won't Let Anyone Take Away People's Voting Rights: Mamata Banerjee
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said she would not let anyone take away people's voting rights, alleging that the BJP was unleashing linguistic terror on Bengalis.
One victim clicked a link from Facebook believing it to be a genuine trading app and invested over 1.6 crore; another complainant was lured via WhatsApp in an online investment app promising high returns and had invested 50 lakh
At 58%, migrant workers dominate Kerala's fisheries sector as natives keep away
KOCHI: The marine fisheries work force of Kerala is dominated by migrant labourers and the representation of Kerala fishermen is recording a steady decline as youngsters are sailing away from the traditional sector, says a study by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). The new generation of traditional fishermen are not interested in pursuing livelihood in the sector due to low income, depleting resources and uncertainty caused by climate-related issues. According to the study, around 58% of the workforce in the fisheries sector are migrant workers. About 55 to 60% of the workers in the mechanised fishing boats are migrant labourers. In the post harvest processing sector around 50% are migrants while the marketing sector also has 40% workers from other states. The study found that Munambam harbour in Ernakulam district has the highest concentration of migrant labourers in Keralas mechanised fishing sector, accounting for 78%. While workers from Colachel in Tamil Nadu dominated the work force of mechanised fishing boats till 2020, they prefer to operate from harbours in their native place now. An increasing number of workers from West Bengal, Odisha and Assam started entering the field in the post Covid period. Presently, around 43% of the migrant workers are from Tamil Nadu while 31% are from West Bengal, 13% from Odisha and 10% from Assam. Budget 2024: Benefits only for shrimp farmers; marine fisheries sector in Kerala feels disappointed A native fisherman earns an average income of Rs 30,000 per month, but the livelihood is often affected by suspension of fishing operation due to bad weather. Native workers in the marketing sector earn an average income of Rs 28,000 while that of post harvest workers is around Rs 20,000. While a migrant fishermen earns a monthly wage of Rs 25,000, migrants in marketing and post harvest sector earn an average income of Rs 14,000 and Rs 11,000 respectively. There is uncertainty about the future of the sector as youngster are migrating to other sectors in search of better earnings and job security, said CMFRI principal scientist Shyam S Salim who piloted the study. There are around 600 mechanised boats operating from Munambam harbour of which 400 are deep-sea fishing vessels. These vessels undertake long fishing trips which extend to more than 10 days. The boats have 16 crew members of which 10 or more are migrant labourers. Children of native fishermen prefer jobs in other sectors. The families are ready to spent more on education of their wards, said Gireesh a boat owner at Munambam. Despite their dominance, migrant workers remain highly vulnerable, facing exploitation, health risks and lack of social security, the study found. Meanwhile, a workshop organised by the CMFRI proposed urgent policy interventions for fisher labour welfare, including better housing, health coverage, education support, and livelihood diversification measures. 78% Highest concentration of migrant labourers in Keralas mechanised fishing sector at Munambam harbour in Ernakulam district Migrant workforce Mechanised fishing boats : 55 to 60% Post harvest processing sector: 50% Marketing sector: 40%
IMD forecasts heavy rain in north Bengal till August 29
Get ready for heavy rainfall in northern West Bengal. The India Meteorological Department predicts it for the next two days. Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Jalpaiguri are likely to be affected. Light to moderate showers are expected in Gangetic West Bengal. Kolkata may experience thundershowers. Fishermen are advised to avoid deep sea ventures.
US Tariffs To Hit West Bengals Leather, Marine And Engineering Exports
Trump's additional 25% tariff on India will impact at least Rs 45,000 crore worth of Indian exports, with Bengal among the 'hardest-hit' states.
Dowry deaths remain a grim reality
NEW DELHI: A harrowing case in Greater Noida has again brought the reality of dowry deaths into the spotlight . Nikki Bhati (28) was allegedly set ablaze by her husband over dowry demands. The incident is not an aberration but part of a chilling trend that continues to claim thousands of lives every year. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data paints a grim picture: in 2022 alone, 6,516 dowry deaths were reported. Though this represents a slight decline from 7,045 in 2020, the numbers remain stubbornly high. Uttar Pradesh tops the list with 2,142 dowry deaths in 2022, followed by Bihar with 1,057, Madhya Pradesh with 520, Rajasthan with 451, and West Bengal with 427. States like Haryana, with 234 such deaths, and Odisha, with 263, add to the disturbing tally. Adjusted for population, UP reports 1.9 dowry deaths per lakh women, Bihar 1.8, Haryana 1.7, and MP 1.2. The tragedy, however, is only the tip of an iceberg of gender violence. What is less visible, but no less disturbing, is the cruelty that women face in their marriages. In 2022, NCRB recorded a staggering 1,44,593 cases under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Codecruelty by husband or his relatives. To put it in perspective, while dowry deaths claimed over 6,500 lives that year, cruelty cases were more than 20 times higher. Compare this again with the 250 cases of murder-rape or gang-rape in 2022. In 2020, police recorded 1,12,292 cruelty cases, a figure that increased to 1,44,593 by 2022. Over the same period, dowry deaths remained steady between 6,500 and 7,000 annually, while murder-rapes stayed under 300. The consistency of dowry deaths combined with the steep rise in cruelty cases shows that the problem is worsening. Despite legal reformsranging from the Dowry Prohibition Act to provisions under Section 304B IPCthe enforcement remains weak. State-wise breakups reveal both scale and concentration. Beyond UP and Bihar, states like Jharkhand (214 deaths), MP (520), and Odisha (263) contribute heavily to the national burden. Smaller but populous states such as Assam (195 deaths) and Haryana (234) also reflect alarming rates, highlighting that the issue spans regions. By contrast, states like Kerala, with 12 reported cases, and Tamil Nadu, with 29, show that lower prevalence is possible but still far from eradication. The Nikki Bhati case reminds us that the fight is against a system of everyday cruelty that makes such deaths possible.
West Bengal CEO plans new EPIC, booth system
West Bengal's Chief Electoral Officer plans to improve the election process. A new system will ensure quick delivery of voter ID cards. Applicants can track their cards live. All polling booths will have uniform, technology-enabled systems. Macintosh Burn will handle the infrastructure. A company will review the system to find and fix problems.
Will not tolerate insult to Bengali language or motherland: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee
Mamata Banerjee asserted her commitment to protecting West Bengal from perceived attacks on its language and culture, particularly concerning the treatment of migrant workers and accusations of infiltration. She criticized the central government's alleged economic blockade and divisive tactics, while highlighting Bengal's historical contributions and cultural significance.
Calcutta University, West Bengal government set for confrontation over exam date
The university has refused to postpone an examination scheduled on August 28, the foundation day of the Trinamool Congress students wing
Bengal IPS Officer Awarded 3 Years After Daredevil Op Against Armed Robbers
Three years after he led a daredevil operation against a gang of robbers armed with sophisticated weapons and high-tech equipment, an IPS officer of West Bengal cadre received a gallantry award this Independence Day.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks labeling her party, TMC, as hieves. Banerjee defended her government's performance, asserting that the state has properly utilized central funds and responded to all queries.
GST waiver on health insurance to cost Bengal Rs 900 cr annually: Mamata Banerjee
Mamata Banerjee stated that waiving GST on health insurance premiums would cost West Bengal around Rs 900 crore annually. She advocated for this reform to make health cover more affordable. The GST Council is expected to discuss the proposal next month. Banerjee cautioned insurers against raising tariffs after the GST cut. The move aims to boost health insurance penetration.
The West Bengal CM called Mr. Modis comments as insult to the people of West Bengal and lashed out for holding back central funds
Never expected PM to call us 'thieves', he should respect my chair as I do his: Mamata Banerjee
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of insulting the state by calling its people thieves. At a Bardhaman event, she alleged that the Centre withheld funds despite the state answering queries, and criticised Modi for ignoring corruption in BJP-ruled states while targeting West Bengal.
West Bengal: Suvendu Adhikari raises questions on need for SIR
Suvendu Adhikari raised concerns about discrepancies between birth and voter registrations in West Bengal. He alleged widespread corruption within the Trinamool Congress, accusing the Chief Minister and other leaders of involvement. Adhikari claimed vote rigging occurred during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Suvendu Adhikari Slams Mamata Govt for Neglecting Adivasis
Addressing a press conference, the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly alleged that Adivasis in the state were being deprived of their constitutionally mandated reservations in education and jobs.
2022 Clip of BJP Workers Thrashing West Bengal Police Viral as Recent
The video is from September 2022 and shows a police officer who was thrashed amid the BJPs Nabanno Chalo protest.
Suvendu Adhikari accused corrupt dynasts of evading the JPC reviewing the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, which proposes removing jailed leaders. Amit Shah criticized opposition protests against the bill, questioning whether a leader could govern from jail and rejecting the notion that the country cannot function without a jailed individual. He emphasized that governance should continue with other party members.
West Bengal colleges face admission crisis as student numbers plummet
Delayed centralised portal and legal disputes over OBC list leave many undergraduate seats vacant, with students increasingly choosing other States
Golden Tips Tea looks to tie up with VC firms for equity participation for exponential growth in biz
The company inaugurated its flagship tea boutique in Kolkatas Southern Avenue. It has 20 outlets -- 15 managed and five franchise stores -- in West Bengal and Sikkim
Monsoon shifts: Standing crops in danger as IMD predicts heavy rainfall
NEW DELHI : The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast extremely heavy rainfall nationwide for the next five days, following the monsoon troughs shift to its normal position. Northwest India is expected to experience a reduction in heavy rainfall after two days. The IMD indicated that extremely heavy rainfall is likely over isolated areas of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and West Rajasthan on August 25-26. East Rajasthan and Gujarat will experience rainfall over the next three days, while Uttarakhand is expected to see rain on August 29-30. Odisha is to receive rainfall on August 26-27, and coastal Andhra Pradesh on August 26. Heavy rainfall is expected over the Konkan and Goa, as well as Madhya Maharashtra, in the coming 7 days. In East and central India, there is a potential for heavy rainfall in isolated areas of Chhattisgarh and Odisha as well as in Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim. Bihar, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh will also experience rainfall. The IMD has also warned Northeast India about continued heavy rainfall in Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh over the next 6-7 days. In Southern India, heavy rainfall is predicted for Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and coastal Andhra Pradesh. The IMD advised fishermen along the Gujarat and Odisha coasts not to venture out to sea. There is a moderate flash flood risk likely over several areas south of J&K, as well as in northern and central Himachal Pradesh, eastern Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana in the next 24 hours.
Sunali's family stares at uncertainty as she languishes in a Bangladeshi jail
Sunali Khatun, an eight-month pregnant Indian woman, along with her husband, son, and three neighbors, are imprisoned in Bangladesh for alleged illegal immigration. West Bengal Migrant Welfare Board is working to secure their release and repatriation. Khatun's father asserts their Indian citizenship, highlighting their long-term residency in Birbhum and possession of an Aadhaar card.
Class Xii Girl Shot Dead By Lover In West Bengal
Two bullet injuries were found on the victim's body which was later sent for post mortem: Superintendent of Police (Krishnanagar Police District) K Amarnath
ED arrests TMC MLA Jiban Krishna Saha in SSC recruitment scam
Trinamool Congress legislator Jiban Krishna Saha was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday concerning alleged irregularities in the School Service Commission (SSC) recruitment process in West Bengal. Saha, previously arrested by the CBI in 2023 for the same scam, attempted to evade arrest during the ED raid but was apprehended after a brief chase.
West Bengal-Chief Electoral Officer to submit report on Arun Gorain case to High Court by Sept 10
The West Bengal-Chief Electoral Officer will submit a report to Calcutta High Court on September 10 regarding the Arun Gorain case, where Gorain, an Assistant System Manager, is accused of electoral roll manipulation, including the alleged inclusion of foreign nationals. An FIR was lodged against him, leading to his suspension.
The Battle Over Illegal Immigration: Demographics, Politics & The Future Of Bharat | The Right Stand
The Modi government's crackdown on illegal immigration stirs political tensions in border states like West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand. With rising voter rolls and demographic shifts, the debate intensifies over security, civil rights, and the impact of foreign nationals on local populations. n18oc_indiaNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
Calcutta HC seeks account details of clubs that received Durga Puja grants
KOLKATA: The Calcutta High Court on Monday directed the West Bengal Government to furnish details of accounts submitted by the clubs that had received Durga Puja grants from the state in previous years, through an affidavit within 48 hours. A division bench of Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Smita Das De also asked the state to file an affidavit on what steps it had taken against the clubs that did not submit the utilisation certificate of the grant. The Calcutta High Court had several times directed recipients of Durga Puja grants to submit accounts of the utilised grants. The bench passed the direction on hearing a writ petition, which stated that many of the 20,000-odd clubs did not submit the utilisation certificate of the government grant. Why would grants be given even if they have not submitted expenditure accounts, the court questioned. The bench observed that earlier, puja committees were asked to submit utilisation certificates on where and how much money was being spent on government grants. How many puja committees have not submitted that certificate? Are grants being given despite not doing so? The High Court asked the state on Monday. In his submission, Advocate General Kishore Datta said that the high court had never turned down the state's decision to give Durga Puja grants to clubs. Datta pleaded to fix the matter for next hearing after the Durga Puja, when the state would submit the affidavit. Mamata Banerjee and the debate around the almost Rs 500-crore Durga Puja dole in West Bengal What importance will this petition have if it is heard after the pujas? It has been stated in the petition that many clubs were not submitting accounts despite recurrent orders from the high court to submit utilisation accounts. Therefore, if the court intends to take steps in this regard, it has to be before the pujas, the bench observed. The division bench will hear the matter on Wednesday. A person named Sourav Dutta filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Calcutta High Court regarding the grant to the Durga Puja committees. He alleged that government money is being misused. His lawyers, Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya and Shamim Ahmed, argued that the government is giving away public money to the puja committees without spending it in the right place. However, the state's argument was that the money was given to be used for the benefit of the people, and the police were spending the money to raise awareness about the 'Safe Drive Save Life' campaign. The money was also spent to ensure several restrictions during COVID-19. At that time, the high court had ordered that the puja committees would have to give details of accounts of where the government grant was being spent. The plaintiff's lawyer alleged that many puja committees had not submitted the accounts. Soon after, the high court sought the state's statement on the matter. The high court also raised the question of why a grant would be given to a puja committee even though it had not submitted the utilization certificate.
TMC alleges vendetta after ED arrests MLA Jiban Saha in SSC scam; BJP slams Trinamool over graft
Jiban Krishna Saha, a TMC legislator, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate. This arrest relates to the school jobs scam in West Bengal. Saha allegedly tried to escape during the raid. He threw his mobile phones into a pond. The ED arrested him under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
ED arrests TMC MLA in West Bengal school jobs scam
Kolkata: The Enforcement Directorate arrested ruling Trinamool Congress MLA Jiban Krishna Saha on Monday following raids as part of its probe into alleged irregularities in the hiring of teachers and staffers in schools in West Bengal, official sources said. He was taken into the central probe agencys custody following searches conducted at his residence in 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 .
TMC MLA caught while 'fleeing' as ED raids house over Bengal school job 'irregularities'
Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials apprehended a TMC MLA, Jiban Krishna Saha, in West Bengal's Murshidabad district as he allegedly attempted to escape his residence during a search related to a school recruitment scam. Saha was caught in a field after scaling a wall, and his mobile phones, which he allegedly threw into a pond, have been recovered for forensic analysis.
ED searches TMC MLA, linked persons in West Bengal school recruitment 'scam'
The Enforcement Directorate on Monday raided Trinamool Congress MLA Jiban Krishna Saha and his relatives in a money laundering probe linked to the West Bengal school jobs scam. The searches, under PMLA, follow a CBI FIR on irregularities in hiring teachers and staff. Saha was earlier arrested in 2023. The ED has filed four charge sheets in the case.
Bengal school jobs scam: ED raids TMC MLA's residence; he allegedly tried to flee
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided TMC MLA Jiban Krishna Saha and his relatives concerning alleged irregularities in West Bengal school hiring. Saha, previously arrested and released by the CBI in 2023 for his alleged involvement in the scam, is now under investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Bengal school jobs scam: ED raids residence of TMC MLA
KOLKATA: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is conducting a raid at the residence of TMC MLA Jiban Krishna Saha in West Bengal's Murshidabad district on Monday in connection with its probe into the alleged irregularities in the recruitment of school teachers, a senior officer said. As the legislator came to know about the raid, he allegedly tried to flee his house by scaling the boundary wall of the premises, he said. The MLA was chased and caught by our officers in a nearby area. Now, our officers are interrogating him, the ED officer told PTI. Based on information about a monetary transaction by a man from Birbhum district in connection with the alleged school teachers' recruitment scam, the raid was conducted, he said. The individual from Birbhum district accompanied the ED team to Saha's house this morning, the officer said. The central probe agency had earlier questioned Saha's wife in connection with the scam. The CBI had arrested Saha in April 2023 in connection with the alleged school recruitment scam. He was released on bail in May this year. The Enforcement Directorate has been investigating the money laundering aspect of the alleged scam, while the CBI is probing the criminal links to it.
BSF nabs Bangladesh ex-cop crossing into West Bengal
Heavy Rain Forecast for Next 2 Days in AP
The existing low-pressure area over Gangetic West Bengal and the neighborhood persisted over the same region
Centre says land not given by West Bengal Govt for Indo-Bangladesh border fencing
KOLKATA: Fencing at Indo-Bangladesh border in West Bengal has been stalled due to non-getting of land from the state government, the Centre informed the Parliament. The Indo-Bangladesh border in West Bengal is 2216.7 km long, and 569 km is still unfenced.Out of this, the Central Government has already released payment for 181.635 km of land, but not handed over by the West Bengal Government, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai told the Rajya Sabha last week. This data shared by the Union Government in the Parliament assumes significance as the BJP has intensified its attacks on the Trinamool Congress over infiltration issue before the Assembly elections in the state due April-May, next year. In a public meeting in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Friday accused the Trinamool Congress of promoting infiltration for the sake of political power and securing votes. He had asserted that the BJP-led Union Government launched a massive campaign against infiltrators, who are changing the demography of West Bengal. The Trinamool Congress has however, put the ball in the Centre's court, arguing that the Union Government's agency Border Security Force (BSF) is responsible for guarding and security of the Indo-Bangladesh border. Replying to a question in the Upper House of the Parliament, Rai said, The total length of the IndoBangladesh border in West Bengal is 2216.7 km, out of which 1647.696 km has been covered by fence. Out of balance stretch of 569.004 km, which is yet to be covered by fence and other border infrastructure works, 112.780 km is non-feasible and 456.224 km is feasible. He informed that out of 456.224 km, land for 77.935 km has been handed over to the executing agency. For the balance stretch of 378.289 km, land acquisition is yet to be initiated for 148.971 km by the State Government. The remaining land for 229.318 km is in various stages of land acquisition, the Minister said, while adding that despite making payment, the West Bengal Government is yet to hand over 181.635 km of land to the Union Government.
Bill to remove PM, CMs: Won't nominate members to JPC, says TMC; SP also unlikely to send its MPs
NEW DELHI: The TMC on Saturday said forming a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to look into three bills that lay down the framework for the removal of the prime minister and chief ministers is a farce. The party led by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also said that it will not send any member to the committee. The Samajwadi Party (SP) is also unlikely to nominate any member to the panel, a source in the party said. In a blogpost published on Saturday, TMC's Rajya Sabha leader Derek O'Brien said his party as well as the SP have decided not to nominate any members to the JPC. He claimed that the committees are skewed towards the ruling party because of its numbers in both houses of Parliament. The Government of Union Territories (Amendment) Bill-2025, the Constitution (One Hundred And Thirtieth Amendment) Bill-2025 and the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill-2025 were introduced in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. The bills provide a legal framework for the removal of the prime minister, chief ministers and ministers on being arrested for 30 consecutive days on serious charges. The bills have been referred to a JPC. We oppose the 130th constitution amendment Bill at the stage of introduction, and in our view, the JPC is a farce. Therefore, we are not nominating anyone from AITC, the Trinamool Congress said in a statement. In the blogpost, O'Brien said the TMC and the SP, the two largest opposition parties in Parliament after the Congress, have decided not to nominate members to the JPC and listed reasons for boycotting the panel. One, the chairperson of the JPC is decided by the speaker of Lok Sabha and the chairperson of Rajya Sabha, in consultation with each other as may be necessary, and its members are subsequently nominated by each party according to the party's strength. This makes these committees skewed towards the ruling majority because of their numbers in the Houses. The chairperson of the JPC would have been a BJP MP, he said. NDA allies JD(U), TDP cagey on bills to remove arrested ministers O'Brien claimed that in almost every JPC, there is no consensus on the final report. Whenever important amendments are proposed by an opposition MP, the amendments are defeated in the committee by a show of hands. The ruling party uses its brute majority to do this, he alleged. The TMC leader added that instead of coming to the committee meetings with an open mind, MPs representing the treasury benches rubber-stamp the views of the ruling party. He said the opposition members with an alternative view are outvoted. The only recourse left is to table a dissenting note -- for the record, he noted. Citing past examples, O'Brien mentioned the JPC report on the Bofors case of 1987, which was boycotted by the opposition as the committee was packed with members of the ruling party. Joint Parliamentary Committees (JPCs) were originally conceived as democratic and well-intentioned mechanisms, established through motions passed by both Houses of Parliament and endowed with exceptional powers, such as summoning witnesses, demanding documents, and examining experts, he said. However, this purpose has eroded significantly post-2014, with JPCs increasingly being manipulated by the government in power. Now, in the same committee which represents public accountability, procedures are bypassed, opposition amendments rejected, and meaningful debate replaced by partisan fluff, the TMC leader said. The Modi coalition pushing to form this JPC to examine an 'unconstitutional bill' is a stunt performed to create a distraction from Special Intensive Revision (SIR -- vote chori). Someone needed to call a stunt a stunt. I am glad we did, he added. The bills introduced just before the conclusion of the Monsoon session of Parliament sent the opposition up in arms. Tempers flared in the Lok Sabha, copies of the bills were torn and flung, and members of the ruling and opposition alliances came face to face when Union Home Minister Amit Shah moved to introduce the bills. TMC MPs charged towards Shah when he introduced the three draft laws. Both houses have passed a resolution to refer the bills to a JPC comprising 21 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha. The committee has been mandated to submit its report to the House in the Winter session, which is likely to be convened in the third week of November. Going back to medieval times: Rahul Gandhi slams Centre over Bills to remove PM, CMs
BSF Nabs Bangladesh Police Officer Trying To Cross Border In North 24 Parganas
BSF apprehended a senior Bangladesh Police officer near Hakimpur Border Outpost in North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, while he tried to infiltrate India.
VaranasiKolkata Expressway construction in West Bengal delayed due to alignment revision
KOLKATA: While construction of the VaranasiKolkata Expressway has already commenced in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand, the project in West Bengal is still lagging behind, the Parliament was informed recently. Replying to a question from BJP MP Samik Bhattacharya, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said that the Centre has completed land acquisition notifications in Purulia, Bankura, and Hooghly districts of West Bengal, but work cannot progress because the State Government has revised the alignment of the Expressway. The work of construction of Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway has been awarded in the State of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand, except at certain locations. Further, the work of preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) for stretch in West Bengal has been awarded, he stated in the Rajya Sabha. Gadkari also informed that the subject alignment from VaranasiRanchiKolkata was approved by the Centre and consent of the West Bengal Government received on 3 January 2023. The revised alignment considering the request of State Government was approved in October 2024, he added. Mentioning that land acquisition notifications in three districts have been completed out of six districts of West Bengal falling in the alignment, the Minister said, The award of work and start of construction shall be based on the outcome of DPR, requirement of connectivity, inter-se priority and synergy with PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. According to experts, this Expressway is a game-changer for connectivity and economic growth, linking West Bengal directly with Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, and boosting trade, tourism, and job opportunities. However, due to delays by the West Bengal Government, the state lags behind compared to the three other states in constructing the Expressway. The 610-kilometre, six-lane VaranasiKolkata Expressway is being constructed to ease commuting and the movement of goods vehicles between Varanasi and Kolkata, which will reduce travel time from 1214 hours to just six hours. The greenfield project is estimated at Rs 35,000 crore. The foundation stone for this greenfield project was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 23 February 2024. This new route will complement the historic Grand Trunk Road connecting Varanasi with Kolkata. The VaranasiKolkata Expressway will also link Ranchi. The entire Expressway is targeted to be operational by March 2028.
14,000 new polling booths likely in Bengal; all-party meet on Aug 29
West Bengal is set to increase its polling booths by approximately 14,000 before the 2026 assembly elections. The Election Commission has scheduled an all-party meeting on August 29 to discuss this proposed reorganization, aiming to ease voting by splitting stations with over 1,200 electors. This expansion, potentially reaching 92,000 booths, presents organizational challenges, especially for opposition parties.
Suvendu trains guns on Mamata's Bhabanipur, TMC zooms in on Nandigram
West Bengal's political arena is heating up as Suvendu Adhikari targets Mamata Banerjee's Bhabanipur constituency, commissioning surveys to identify weaknesses. Simultaneously, TMC is intensifying efforts in Adhikari's Nandigram stronghold, with Abhishek Banerjee leading strategic meetings.
How an eight-month pregnant 'nowhere woman' ended up 'illegal' in India and jailed in Bangladesh
Sunali Khatun from West Bengal is currently in a Bangladesh jail. She is eight months pregnant and faces deportation issues. Indian police and Bangladeshi authorities have branded her an illegal immigrant. She possesses an Aadhaar card and voter ID. She was arrested with her family and others. They were daily wage earners in Delhi. Families are fighting for their return.
WB NEET UG 2025: Round 1 revised schedule released, seat allotment today at wbmcc.nic.in
The West Bengal Medical Counselling Committee (WBMCC) has released a revised schedule for NEET UG 2025 Round 1 counselling after facing delays due to administrative and technical issues. The seat allotment results for MBBS and BDS courses in state colleges were published on August 23. Candidates can check the results and revised schedule on the official website, wbmcc.nic.in.
West Bengal Joint Entrance Examinations results declared after three-month delay
The results follow an unprecedented delay owing to legal complications surrounding the revisions in the list of Other Backward Classes (OBC)
Modi: No Entry For Infiltrators In India
Says they are snatching jobs in Bihar, West Bengal
In Bengal, PM Modi raises infiltration to attack state government; TMC hits back
KOLKATA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched a sharp attack on the Trinamool Congress, accusing West Bengals ruling party of promoting infiltration for the sake of political power and securing votes. Speaking at a BJP rally at Dum Dum Central Jail Maidan in Kolkata, he said the BJP-led Union government had launched a campaign against infiltrators who are changing the demography of West Bengal. Calling infiltration a serious concern, Modi said the country would not tolerate the problem any longer. Who will chase away the infiltrators? Who can free Bengal from infiltrators? Your one vote can solve this problem. Vote once, they will all run away, he said, urging people to back the BJP. Intensifying his criticism of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), he said, Trinamool and some political parties are supporting them (infiltrators) for power and votes. In some places, they are also taking their help. West Bengal is a border state. The way infiltration is increasing, it is becoming a social problem. They are snatching the land of farmers. They are snatching the land of tribals. This cannot be tolerated. That is why a special mission has been announced against the infiltrators. Those who have been staying for so long by making fake papers must go. The Trinamool government must also go so that this work can be done properly, Modi added. The TMC countered Modis charge by blaming the Centre for infiltration. In a post on X, the party said: And whose colossal failure allowed infiltration to happen in the first place? Under Home Minister @AmitShah, who controls the BSF, borders remain porous while terrorists slip through and attack innocent citizens. @BJP4Indias idea of protecting the nation is blame-shifting, incompetence, and hypocrisy. Before pointing fingers at Bengal, they must answer for their own disastrous border security! it added. PM Modi used I-Day speech to target 'new enemy' in form of infiltrators: TMC Meanwhile, the prime minister accused the opposition INDIA bloc, including the TMC, of shielding corruption and resisting legislation aimed at ensuring integrity in public life. Without naming anyone, Modi referred to the Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025, introduced in Parliament earlier this week. The Bill seeks to bar prime ministers, chief ministers and ministers from holding office if they remain in jail for 30 days or more. An anti-corruption bill has been brought in the Lok Sabha this time. In our country, if even a small government employee has to be taken into police custody, if bail is not granted within 50 hours, his job will be lost. Even if a small worker goes to jail for two days, his life is over. But there is no such law for the Chief Minister or Prime Minister if they go to jail, Modi said. In a veiled reference to former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, he added: Many Chief Ministers even after going to jail, have been running the government from there. This is an insult to the constitution. We will not allow this. But the Trinamool people are opposing this. The Trinamool people wanted to tear up this bill in Parliament. This means that the Trinamool politics is based on corruption, he alleged. Modi went on to say: Two TMC ministers, even after going to jail on corruption charges, were not willing to give up their posts. He was referring to former education minister Partha Chatterjee, arrested in the teachers recruitment scam, and Jyoti Priya Mallick, arrested in the ration distribution scam. Going back to medieval times: Rahul Gandhi slams Centre over Bills to remove PM, CMs Responding to Trinamools allegation that the BJP had attacked the Bengali language, Modi said: The BJP government is proudly working to strengthen the Bengali language and Bengali culture. We are the ones who have given the Bengali language the status of a classical language. Calling on voters to oust the TMC government, he said: First, Bengal has seen the rule of Congress, then the Left. Fifteen years ago, you decided to change by believing in the Maa Mati Manush. But that made the situation worse than before. Crime and corruption are the hallmarks of the TMC government. It is certain that as long as there is a Trinamool government in Bengal, development in Bengal will remain stagnant. Only when Trinamool goes, real change will come. Form a BJP government in Bengal. We will make the Bengal of Shama Prasad Mookerjees dream. Developed Bengal, Modis guarantee. BJP has a roadmap for the development of Bengal. But Trinamool does not. Trinamool is the enemy of development We need to bring back the past glory of Bengal. So, we have to say together, remove Trinamool. Save Bengal, he said. Earlier in the day, Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated projects worth over Rs 5,200 crore at a programme in Dum Dum. These included the SealdahEsplanade Metro Section, BeleghataHemanta Mukhopadhyay Section and NoaparaJai Hind (Biman Bandar) Section, and the foundation stone for the six-lane elevated Kona Expressway. Sharing his experience of a Kolkata Metro journey from Noapara to Jai Hind Airport, he said colleagues expressed happiness over the modernisation of Kolkatas transport system. Cities like Kolkata are a rich embodiment of both Indias history and its future. As India moves towards becoming the worlds third-largest economy, cities such as Dum Dum and Kolkata will play a pivotal role, he said. He noted that India now has the worlds third-largest metro network, growing from 250 km in 2014 to more than 1,000 km today, with Kolkata seeing steady expansion. He said about 14 km of new lines and seven stations are being added to the citys network, which would improve ease of living and travel. The SealdahEsplanade Metro Section is part of the East-West Metro Corridor, built with a 64,833 million yen loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). PM Modi claims 'conspiracy to change' India's demography, pitches mission to curb infiltration
Vote for BJP to free West Bengal of infiltrators, says PM Modi in Kolkata
PM says infiltrators are changing States demography, putting pressure on resources and posing a threat to womens safety, but Trinamool and Congress are supporting them for appeasement politics
Jharkhand braces for heavy rainfall over next three days
RANCHI: In yet another weather alert issued by the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, heavy to very heavy rainfall has been predicted in several parts of Jharkhand over the next three days, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds. According to the Head of the Meteorological Centre in Ranchi, Abhishek Anand, It will continue to rain in Jharkhand till 23, 24 and 25 August; some districts will receive heavy to very heavy rain, while some districts will receive heavy rain. During this time, an alert has also been issued for thunderstorms and lightning along with rain. According to the forecast, north-western parts of the state are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall on 23 August. Isolated heavy showers are also expected over south-western, north-eastern and adjoining central regions, along with thunderstorms and gusty winds. On 24 August, heavy rainfall may occur at isolated places over southern, central and north-eastern parts of the state. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are likely in several areas. Similarly, on 25 August, western and adjoining central parts of Jharkhand may experience heavy rainfall at isolated places, while thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are expected across the state. According to the Meteorological Department, the monsoon trough is currently passing through Jaisalmer, Kota, Datia, Sidhi, Ranchi, Bankura, Digha and extending southeastwards into the east-central Bay of Bengal, up to 1.5 km above mean sea level. An upper air cyclonic circulation persists over northwest Madhya Pradesh and adjoining regions, extending up to 7.6 km above mean sea level, it said. Another circulation lies over north Odisha and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal at around 5.8 km above mean sea level. The Met office has advised citizens to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy downpours and take precautions against lightning strikes and gusty winds. There is a possibility of heavy rainfall at some places in Palamu, Garhwa, Chatra, Latehar, Ranchi, Bokaro, Gumla, Hazaribagh, Khunti, Ramgarh, Lohardaga, Koderma, Dhanbad, Giridih and Simdega districts on 24 August. IMD has issued a yellow alert for these districts. Meanwhile, in a tragic incident on Thursday, three innocent girls were killed in a lightning strike while returning from school near Ranchi. According to locals, Pari Oraon of Class 1 in Primary School Hondpidi and Anjalika Kujur of Class 3, along with Basmati Oraon of Class 6, were going home during which a lightning strike took place killing all the three on the spot. Jharkhand has so far received 25% excess rain than normal.
Labourer mowed down by lorry near Byadarahalli in west Bengaluru
