Mamata Banerjee Calls TMC Dispute Developments A Black Day For Democracy
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called the developments surrounding the Trinamool Congress internal factional dispute a black day in Indias democratic history after her camps Nandigram bypoll candidate withdrew her nomination. Banerjee also described the developments as unconstitutional, illegal and undemocratic.
Bangladeshi national held at Ezhimala Naval Academy with forged documents
Digital Desk | Kannur, Sep 19 (IANS) A Bangladeshi national who had been working for nearly a year in the Naval laundry section of the highly secure Indian Naval Academy (INA) at Ezhimala using alleged forged documents, was arrested by the police and Intelligence agencies, raising serious questions over security verification at the strategic military establishment. The accused, 32-year-old Soren, was taken into custody from the academy following confidential inputs received by the Intelligence Bureau (IB). Police and Intelligence officials are now questioning him to establish how a foreign national managed to secure employment and remain at the naval establishment for nearly a year without being detected. Soren had allegedly used a fake Aadhaar card showing him as an Indian citizen and a fake Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) purportedly issued by the police in West Bengal to obtain the job. Preliminary investigation has indicated that Soren is a Bangladeshi national who entered India through West Bengal after allegedly obtaining forged documents. The circumstances under which he secured employment at the Naval Academy are also under investigation. Police are looking into the role of the contractor or agency through which he was engaged and whether proper background and identity verification was carried out before he was allowed to work inside the sensitive establishment. The arrest comes amid a wider police crackdown in Kannur following the detection of Bangladeshi nationals allegedly staying in the district using forged Indian documents. Four Bangladeshi women were arrested in Kannur in the past few days after police raided a rented house at Odenparambu. They were allegedly working at a spa in Kannur city. Police recovered Bangladeshi identity cards as well as suspected fake Indian identity documents from the women. During interrogation, they allegedly told investigators that they had obtained the forged documents from Assam before travelling to Kerala in search of employment. With the arrest at Ezhimala, police are investigating whether there is an organised network involved in bringing Bangladeshi nationals into Kerala and arranging forged identity documents and employment for them. The investigation will also focus on whether there were lapses in the verification process followed by contractors and agencies recruiting temporary workers for the Naval Academy.
Body of Missing Teen Found in Abandoned House in Purulia, Family Suspects Murder
The body of a 16-year-old girl was discovered in Purulia, West Bengal, with her family alleging murder linked to a local boy. Body of Missing Teen Found in Abandoned House in Purulia, Family Suspects Murder
India shifts counter-terror strategy, moves to bust terror plots before attacks
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 19 (IANS) India's counter-terrorism operations have undergone a strategic shift, transitioning from a reactive security apparatus to a pre-emptive, intelligence-driven doctrine aimed at dismantling terror modules before execution, according to senior security officials. Since coming to power, the Narendra Modi government at the Centre has maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. A significant shift has been the move by the security establishment handling terror-related cases towards a more pre-emptive approach, aimed at identifying and neutralising threats before they can materialise. An official said that recent events relating to terror clearly indicate that the national counter-terrorism strategy policy for Response against Hostile Activities and Radicalism, or PRAHAAR, that was introduced in February this year has already started to take effect. The official said that the clear directive to the agencies is not to wait for an incident to take place and then react to the same. The focus is on preventing terror attacks and ensuring that terror modules do not grow to such an extent that bringing them under control becomes a Herculean task, the official added. An Intelligence Bureau official said that this is the same pattern that is being applied across the country, especially in Jammu and Kashmir. The Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) has been in overdrive mode and plotting big strikes in the Valley. In the last several months, it has tried to work on its overground worker (OWG) network, while also trying its best to get the infiltrations moving. However, the success has been very low thanks to the new doctrine that focuses on busting these plans rather than reacting after something has taken place, the IB official said. In the past couple of months, security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir have neutralised terrorists, busted multiple modules and ensured that the overground worker network remains grounded. These have been among the major challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir, and the agencies have ensured that plotting and carrying out terror attacks is now harder than what the ISI may have anticipated, the official added. Another official said that while terror attacks remain one part of the problem, the bigger challenge confronting the country is radicalisation. He said the issue is not confined to any particular region but has spread across the country. Although unconnected, these radicalisation modules have thrived in states such as Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Delhi, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Kerala, the official said. The Islamic State, in particular, has focused only on radicalisation and has been largely successful in infiltrating the minds of the youth in a big way. As the security agencies realised the scale at which the problem was taking place, immediate action was taken, and these modules were busted. The busting of the pan-India radicalisation module in Andhra Pradesh is an example of how the agencies have been handling such cases. The module was threatening to become a massive problem but was nipped in the bud in the nick of time. Officials said security agencies no longer wait for terror modules to grow before taking action. If intelligence is actionable, the agencies move immediately to disrupt the module and prevent it from developing further, the officials added. Similar action was reported in Gujarat when a Jaish-e-Mohammad-linked module was busted. This was a self-styled module that subscribed to the views of the Jaish-e-Mohammad. The security agencies, after busting this module, found extremist material in large numbers. This module was becoming a ticking time bomb, but was busted just in time. The approach has been the same when it comes to tackling terror and radicalisation from the Bangladesh side. Multiple attempts made by the Harkat-ul-Jihadi Islami (HuJI) and the Jamaat-ul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) have been thwarted. These groups were looking to target West Bengal and the northeastern states. An official said that this was an important shift in Indias counter-terrorism and anti-radicalisation strategy. While PRAHAAR has ensured a pre-emptive, rather than reactive, strategy, it has also ensured seamless integration between the Intelligence agencies, the state police and the central agencies, an official said.
BJP MP Claims TMC is Dwindling in West Bengal Amid Political Turmoil
BJPs Khagen Murmu asserts TMC is nearing its end, citing corruption and violence as key factors in West Bengals political landscape. BJP MP Claims TMC is Dwindling in West Bengal Amid Political Turmoil
West Bengal B.Ed Admission 2026 - Check Registration Schedule Online @ bsaeu.in
WB B.Ed Admission 2026 registration is open till September 21 at bed.bsaeu.net.in. Check WB B.Ed eligibility, application fee, merit list date, scoring method, documents and counselling process here.
1965 War Hero Alfred Tyrone Cooke Passes Away; IAF Pays Tribute
Flight Lieutenant Alfred Tyrone Cooke, a Vir Chakra awardee and decorated veteran of the 1965 Indo-Pak War, passed away on Friday at Base Hospital in New Delhi. The Indian Air Force paid tribute to Cooke, recalling his courage during the 1965 war and his legendary dogfight over Kalaikunda in West Bengal. IAF Recalls Legendary Dogfight [] The post 1965 War Hero Alfred Tyrone Cooke Passes Away; IAF Pays Tribute appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Milan Pradhan was arrested at a hotel in Chandipur in West Bengals Purba Medinipur district along with another party leader, Subhasish Bhattacharya
West Bengal: Mamata's Rejinagar bypoll candidate announces withdrawal from contest, retracts later
Rabiul Alam Chowdhury withdrew and then retracted his Rejinagar by-election candidacy. He cited harassment and symbol familiarity issues for his initial decision. Chowdhury later stated he would contest after police assured security and Mamata Banerjee intervened. Meanwhile, Nandigram candidate Sanchita Pradhan Dey withdrew her nomination after meeting Suvendu Adhikari. Banerjee then supported Congress's Nandigram nominee, who was later arrested.
BJP Bengal chief seeks RRTS network linking Kolkata with South Bengal towns
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 19 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) West Bengal president and Rajya Sabha member Samik Bhattacharya has urged Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar to consider developing a Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) network connecting Kolkata with important townships across South Bengal. In a letter to Khattar, Bhattacharya said a well-researched preliminary feasibility proposal for a West Bengal Regional Rapid Transit System (VVB-RRTS) had been prepared. He said the proposal merited detailed examination by the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry, given that connectivity between Kolkata and several industrial and tourism hubs was largely dependent on conventional railway routes and highways. Bhattacharya said these conventional transport routes were often congested and, therefore, ill-suited for high-frequency commuter travel. An RRTS network on the lines of NCRTC's Namo Bharat corridors can address this gap through metro-like, high-speed regional connectivity, Bhattacharya pointed out in his letter. The VVB-RRTS proposal, according to him, envisages connecting Kolkata with important townships including Kalyani, Krishnanagar and Mayapur in Nadia district, Bardhaman in East Burdwan district, Durgapur and Asansol in West Burdwan district, Falta and Diamond Harbour in South 24 Parganas district, and Haldia in East Midnapore district, among others. The proposal is designed to minimise land acquisition by aligning corridors along existing highways and railway corridors. It also recommends a special purpose vehicle, the West Bengal Rapid Transit Corporation (WBRTC), on the lines of NCRTC, with joint ownership between the Government of India and the Government of West Bengal, Bhattacharya pointed out in his letter. The proposed network is intended to improve mobility, strengthen links with industrial centres and tourism destinations, and ease pressure on transport infrastructure. He requested Khattar to examine the proposal and, if found suitable, direct a detailed feasibility study covering engineering, demand forecasting and financial analysis in coordination with the West Bengal government. I would be glad to facilitate an interaction with the report's authors, should that be of assistance, and trust this proposal will receive your kind and favourable consideration, Bhattacharya said.
Rejinagar bypoll drama continues as Mamata faction candidate revokes withdrawal decision (Ld)
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 19 (IANS) High drama continued ahead of the upcoming bypoll of the Rejinagar Assembly constituency in West Bengal's minority-dominated Murshidabad district, with Rabiul Alam Chowdhury, the candidate of the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress, withdrawing his earlier decision to pull out of the contest. Earlier in the day, Chowdhury had told reporters that he intended to withdraw his nomination, citing reluctance among party workers to campaign under the new symbol allotted to the faction by the Election Commission of India (ECI) and what he described as administrative pressure. He had also claimed that the decision was taken after discussions with Mamata Banerjee. However, within hours, the political situation took a dramatic turn when Chowdhury announced that he would remain in the fray following appeals from the party leadership, including Mamata Banerjee. Reacting to the development, Abu Taher Khan, Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha MP from Murshidabad, criticised the decision to field a candidate in Rejinagar. She had always been misled by some people. She had been misled this time as well, Khan said, referring to Mamata Banerjee. Polling for the Rejinagar bypoll, along with the Nandigram Assembly constituency in East Midnapore district, is scheduled for October 6, with counting of votes on October 9. The developments come a day after Sanchita Dey Pradhan, the candidate of the Mamata-led faction in the Nandigram bypoll, withdrew her nomination following a meeting with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Subsequently, Mamata Banerjee announced support for the Congress candidate in Nandigram. The Rejinagar bypoll became necessary after AJUP leader Humayun Kabir, who won both the Rejinagar and Naoda Assembly seats in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, chose to retain the latter. His son, Golam Nabi Azad, is contesting the bypoll as the AJUP candidate. Earlier on Friday, the Election Commission of India allotted the name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the symbol Football Player to the Mamata Banerjee-led faction. The rival faction headed by Ritabrata Banerjee was allotted the name Democratic Trinamool Congress and the symbol Envelope. Earlier, the poll panel had frozen the original party name All India Trinamool Congress and its traditional symbol Flowers & Grass.
Mamata moves SC against EC order on party name, symbol
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has filed a plea in the Supreme Court challenging the Election Commission's interim decision to freeze the Trinamool Congress' name and party symbol. The EC had allotted separate names and symbols to two rival TMC factions ahead of upcoming bypolls, a move Banerjee has strongly criticised as a lack day for democracy.
16-year-old girl found dead in West Bengal's Purulia, family suspects murder
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 19 (IANS) The body of a 16-year-old girl was recovered from an empty house in West Bengals Purulia district on Saturday morning, with her family alleging that she was murdered by a minor boy with whom she was reportedly in a relationship and his family members. The police have launched an investigation following a complaint lodged by the girl's family. The body was recovered from an empty house in the jurisdiction of Purulia Mufassil Police Station in Purulia town. The girl's brother-in-law told local media persons that she had gone missing on Friday night. The girl had been missing since last night. We searched throughout the night but could not find her. This morning, she was found dead, he said. We came to know that the girl was in a relationship with a local teenager. She used to go to their house for tuition. But later, she refused to go there for tuition. We suspect that the girl was murdered. We have appealed to the government to ensure that she gets proper justice, he alleged. According to the family, the girl had been missing since around midnight. Her body was found on Saturday morning inside an empty house belonging to the family. Her headscarf was allegedly tied around her neck. The incident triggered mourning in the area, with local residents gathering near the spot. Officers from Purulia Mufassil Police Station reached the location, recovered the body, and sent it to Purulia Medical College and Hospital for an autopsy. The police said the exact cause of death would be established only after the autopsy report is received. A case of unnatural death has been registered, and an investigation is underway. The police are also examining the allegations made by the girl's family. The body has been recovered and has been sent for autopsy. A complaint has been lodged by the girl's family. The allegations made by the family are being looked into. No one has been arrested as of yet. Investigation is on, a senior officer of Purulia district police said. The incident comes days after a young man was arrested in Purulia for allegedly killing his girlfriend and carrying her body in a bag on a motorcycle. According to police, the accused rode around with the woman's body for nearly three to four hours before he was caught by personnel from Balarampur Police Station on September 12.
The Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress suffered another setback ahead of the West Bengal Assembly bypolls after its Rejinagar candidate, Rabiul Alam Chowdhury, withdrew his nomination on Saturday. The development came a day after the factions Nandigram candidate, Sanchita Pradhan Dey, also withdrew from the contest. Chowdhury cited the difficulty of contesting the [] The post After Nandigram, Mamatas Rejinagar Candidate Rabiul Alam Chowdhury Withdraws appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Arrest of Nandigram Congress candidate lawful step: West Bengal Police
BothRahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee have condemned the arrest and criticised the move days ahead of the bypoll
Lightning Strike During Football Match in West Bengal Claims One Life, Injures 22
A tragic lightning strike during a football tournament in Jhargram, West Bengal, resulted in one death and 22 injuries on Friday evening. Lightning Strike During Football Match in West Bengal Claims One Life, Injures 22
Another setback for Mamata Banerjee as her Rejinagar bypolls pick withdraws
Rabiul Alam Chowdhury's announcement came a day after Sanchita Pradhan Dey, the faction's candidate in Nandigram, withdrew her nomination. She had met West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari with her husband on Thursday, but did not publicly explain her decision to quit. After Dey's withdrawal, Mamata's faction backed Congress candidate Milan Pradhan in Nandigram.
Motorcyclist killed, pillion rider injured in road accident at Botingoo Sopore
Sopore, Sep 19: A motorcyclist was killed while another sustained injuries after their motorcycle collided with a Tata Matador Video Coach at Botingoo area of Sopore in north Kashmir's Baramulla district on Saturday. Officials said the deceased has been identified as Mohinoor Mir Ali, a resident of West Bengal, who was reportedly working as a goldsmith in Srinagar. The injured motorcyclist has been identified as Minhaj Mir Ali. According to officials, the motorcycle bearing registration number JK01BC-6080 collided with a Tata Bus Video Coach number (JK05N-9576), which was reportedly travelling towards Sopore from Bandipora. Following the accident, a team from Police Station Warpora rushed to the spot and shifted both persons to Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Sopore for medical treatment. However, doctors declared Mohinoor Mir Ali brought dead upon arrival, while the injured rider was admitted for treatment. Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident and initiated an investigation to ascertain the exact circumstances leading to the accident.
Mamata Moves SC Challenging EC's Decision to Freeze Party Name, Symbol
In her plea filed in the apex court, Banerjee has made the Election Commission and Ritabrata Banerjee, Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, as party respondents
Ministry of Rural Development to begin DDUGKY 2.0 training batches in Oct
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 19 (IANS) The Ministry of Rural Development will roll out Deen Dayal UpadhyayaGrameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDUGKY) 2.0 training batches across most states and union territories (UTs) from October 2026, an official statement said on Saturday. As many as 1,164 batches enrolling 34,920 rural youth will start training in October, against a sanctioned target of 3,57,112 rural youth to be trained by December 31, 2027, in these 14 jurisdictions. The statement from the Ministry of Rural Development said preparedness for the commencement of training batches was reviewed with 14 States and UTs in the first phase. Preparedness was evaluated at Odisha, Mizoram, Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Puducherry, Karnataka, Telangana and Bihar. As per the DDU-GKY 2.0 portal, allocation of 5.6 lakh targets towards more than 1,200 projects has been done by 24 states or UTs. Other states are in the advanced stages of target allocation. Review meetings in phases will expedite the processes of batch commencement. The Ministry emphasised that that scheme is in a crucial phase and called upon implementing States/UTs to accelerate the allocation of targets to Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs) and to commence batches as per envisaged timelines. DDU-GKY is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for poor rural youth providing placement-linked skill training. The duration of the training varies from 3 months to 12 months. The meeting reviewed the preparedness of states/UTs for implementation of DDU-GKY 2.0. The targets have been allocated to all the 31 participating states or UTs for a 2-year period 2026-28. States or UTs are supposed to ensure allocation of targets to PIAs for commencement of training latest by October 31, 2026. Over 5 lakh targets have already been allocated to PIAs for mobilisation of eligible rural youths, the statement noted.
One killed, 22 injured as lightning strikes football match in Bengal's Jhargram
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 19 (IANS) At least one person was killed, and 22 others were injured after lightning struck a group of football players and spectators who had taken shelter under a tree during a rainstorm at a football tournament in West Bengal's Jhargram district, police said on Saturday. The incident occurred on Friday evening in Kumarbandh village under the Lalgarh police station area, where a two-day football tournament had been organised for Vishwakarma Puja. According to local residents, play was halted after sudden rain accompanied by lightning. Players and spectators gathered under a tarpaulin erected beneath a tree when a lightning bolt struck the shelter. Officers of Lalgarh police station reached the spot after receiving the information. The injured were rescued and first taken to the Lalgarh Primary Health Centre, where doctors declared one person dead. The condition of four others was critical. They were quickly shifted to the Midnapore Medical College and Hospital. Later, on the instructions of the district administration, the remaining 17 injured were also taken to the same hospital. One person is undergoing treatment at the Lalgarh Rural Hospital. The deceased was identified as Deepen Murmu (19), a Class 11 student and a resident of Kumarbandh village. According to police, a two-day football tournament for 16 football teams was organised at Kumarbandh on the occasion of Vishwakarma Puja. This was the first day of the football tournament when the tragedy struck. Recalling the incident, eyewitness Sagen Hansda said a powerful lightning strike plunged the area into darkness. When he regained his senses, he found most of those gathered lying on the ground and helped move them from a waterlogged area of the playground to safer ground. Manav Singla, Superintendent of Police, Jhargram, said police acted swiftly to rescue the victims and ensure their transfer to hospitals for treatment. Local MLA Lakshmi Kanta Sau visited the hospital and met the injured. He said the state government had directed officials to ensure proper medical treatment and extend all necessary support to the affected families.
Wanted to turn Bengal into Bangladesh: Giriraj Singh attacks Mamata Banerjee ahead of bypolls
Union Minister Giriraj Singh attacked Mamata Banerjee's administration for crime and extortion in West Bengal. He claimed the ruling regime wanted to turn Bengal into Bangladesh, which is a serious allegation. Singh also called Rahul Gandhi a robot with a polluted mind for his election manipulation claims. He reminded the Congress of its own history of splits and the origin of the TMC party.
West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh criticized Mamata Banerjee's Supreme Court challenge. He suggested elections will pass before her faction can contest the polls. Banerjee moved the Supreme Court over the Election Commission's interim order. The poll panel froze her party's original name and symbol amid a dispute. This development escalates political tensions ahead of upcoming by-elections.
Demand for Regional Rapid Transit System Grows in West Bengal
Samik Bhattacharya urges the central government to consider an RRTS network in South Bengal to enhance connectivity and urban development. Demand for Regional Rapid Transit System Grows in West Bengal
Mamatas Nandigram nominee deserts, Congress pick arrested
New symbols: Football player for Mamata unit, envelope for rebel bloc
HC raps Bengal govt for detaining Murshidabad man without citing reason
Pillow, scissors, chappals, AC, computer mouse on Election Commissions list of 184 free symbols
IIT Kharagpur gets dean of career development for students holistic advancement
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute director named to JU EC
IIT Kgp, TCG Crest to develop cancer research centre
KP introduces 183 e-bikes for green patrols
Fight over money, not symbol: BJP's Samik Bhattacharya
BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya claimed factions fight over money. He stated the Trinamool party symbol will cease to exist soon. West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari said the ECI made a decision as per rules. He attributed the current situation to pride and divine wrath. Adhikari mentioned Mamata Banerjee's remarks on religious events and processions.
KP to get high-tech drones, GPS-enabled radio handsets
ECI freezes AITC name & symbol, allots new ones to rival factions
The Election Commission has assigned new names and symbols to two factions of the All India Trinamool Congress. Mamata Banerjee's group will now be known as Mamata All India Trinamool Congress with a football player symbol. The Ritabrata Banerjee-led faction received the name Democratic Trinamool Congress and an envelope symbol. Both groups will use these new identities for upcoming by-elections in West Bengal.
Cops arrest Bangla youth for stealing mobiles on Kol streets
Bengal govt identifies 9 mouzas for Kalyani greenfield airport land
Maidan Kite Flying Event Takes A Break After 78 Years
TMC Faces Internal Strife as Election Commission Allocates New Names and Symbols
TMC leaders express concerns over new election symbols and internal conflicts as political tensions rise in West Bengal. TMC Faces Internal Strife as Election Commission Allocates New Names and Symbols
Celebrating culture: Kol kite show paves way for palash, tea festivals
E-fraud syndicate uses fake bank docus to steal Rs 32L, busted
Rs 155 for 2.7km in cab: App travel cost soars as drivers go scarce
Vishwakarma Puja Debut For ABVP, PVKS On JU Campuses
Nandan Gets Back Vishwakarma Puja Festival After Hiatus Of 9 years
Howrah Christian family claims threats, harassment during prayer meet
Roads bad in Baguiati, Chinar Park; pre-puja repairs underway: CM
From red to blue-white to saffron: Salt Lake stadium reflects pol changes
Low-pressure system likely in Andaman Sea today, cyclone fate to be known soon
Aid delayed, claims family of newlywed who suffered burns
Chandrakona OC closed after 20-year-olds death in police custody
Edu dept plans alternative use of zero-enrolment schools
Theme Pandals Debut At Garages, Auto Stands For Vishwakarma Puja In Kolkata
IPL star Abishek Porel gets bail in rape case after arrest over medical students complaint
Cops didnt show arrest: Congress fumes over Milan Pradhans detention as Nandigram race takes twist
Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and West Bengal's former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday sharply criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over Congress' Nandigram candidate's arrest, describing it as a political vendetta and a murder of democracy.
'Farce election': Oppn attacks BJP after Congress Nandigram candidate's arrest
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) The Congress and the Trinamool Congress on Friday hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) while referring to the upcoming bypoll in West Bengal's Nandigram Assembly constituency as farce, after the grand old party's candidate was arrested in an old murder case. Earlier in the day, former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had extended support to Congress' Milan Pradhan after, Sanchita Dey Pradhan, the candidate of the Trinamool Congress faction led by Banerjee, withdrew her nomination from the Nandigram bypoll. In a self-made video, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said: When other opposition parties started extending support to Milan Pradhan, BJP got scared and out of desperation it has arrested Pradhan, in order to thwart our bright prospects in the bypoll and turn the election into a farce one. Targeting the BJP, Chowdhury remarked: It is really a stain on our democracy that election is being conducted by the same (BJP) government who are ruling the state (West Bengal) and who are controlling all the existing institutions in our country. They themselves are trying to make the election as a laughing stock, as a farce. While condemning the arrest, the Congress leader said that he wants to draw the attention of Election Commission into the matter. Congress leader Udit Raj added: If the Congress candidate had also agreed to sit out or refused to contest, he wouldn't have been arrested. Therefore, the Trinamool Congress candidate must have been threatened, or bribed (due to which she withdrew). This is completely undemocratic. Echoing similar view, Trinamool Congress MLA Kunal Ghosh termed Padhan's arrest as panic reaction of the BJP. He (Milan Pradhan) was arrested right after Mamata Banerjee announced that she and her party are going to support the Congress candidate contesting the Nandigram bye-election. This is a panic reaction...This is a fascist government, he told reporters. He also alleged: 'Police Raj' is going on here. The BJP is scared as it does not trust the public. Ghosh demanded that the Congress candidate should be immediately released. Nandigram, along with Rejinagar Assembly constituency in Murshidabad district, is going to bypolls on October 6 and the results will be declared on November 9.
Fast-paced developments mark dramatic times in Bengal politics
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) Amidst fast-paced developments on Friday, West Bengals electoral politics stand poised for a major shift, with Trinamool Congress founder and former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee facing the prospect of going unrepresented in the high-profile Nandigram Assembly seat when the by-election is held on October 6. Sanchita Dey Pradhan, the candidate nominated from the Mamata-led Trinamool faction for Nandigram, withdrew her nomination after meeting Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. With the last date for nomination over, Mamata had no option but to announce support for Congress candidate Milan Pradhan. Soon after, reports emerged of his arrest in an old case. The Congress blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for the development, which the ruling party promptly denied. With the model code of conduct in place, the state election commission acquires administrative control. BJP leaders pointed out that it can direct police to execute all non-bailable warrants issued earlier. Subsequent developments, following the Election Commission of India (ECI) decision earlier in the day to allot new names and symbols to two rival factions in the Trinamool Congress, one led by Mamata and the other by expelled party legislator Ritabrata Banerjee, escalated the war of attrition. The two factions of the Trinamool Congress, which ruled West Bengal for 15 uninterrupted years under Mamata Banerjee, were set to contest the upcoming by-elections at Nandigram in East Midnapore district and also Rejinagar in Murshidabad. The Mamata All India Trinamool Congress with Football Player as its symbol, and the Democratic Trinamool Congress with Envelope as its symbol, were in the fray alongside other political parties. The importance of the original name and symbol of the twin florets was reflected in the words of a leader owing allegiance to Mamata Banerjee, who said she had expressed intent to join her candidates on the campaign trail if the Election Commission officially granted them. If not, Didi said she will think about it, he said, referring to Mamatas remarks ahead of the poll bodys interim decision late on Thursday. For rebel Ritabrata Banerjee, the decision came as he rose from yet another political leader to being the principal disruptive face against Mamata Banerjee, long regarded as West Bengals greatest political disruptor. His camp was reportedly content that the original name and symbol were not awarded to Mamata, which would have given her additional strength in the upcoming by-election. Meanwhile, rebel Trinamool Lok Sabha MPs who chose to join the little-known Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI) but have yet to be granted official recognition by the Speaker face a longer wait to navigate their path ahead. The BJP has ruled out admitting any more Trinamool leaders into its fold. However, the rebel MPs have chosen to support the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Now, all rebels, about 60 MLAs, 20 MPs, other leaders, workers, and supporters, await the final decision of the Election Commission. For recognition of political parties in an election, the poll body stipulates that a reserved symbol is for a recognised political party for exclusive allotment to contesting candidates set up by that party, while a free symbol is any other than a reserved symbol. With the two factions battling over ownership, allotment of the twin florets will be announced once the real Trinamool is established, deciding who gains access to party funds and other assets. In the meantime, neither faction can use the name All India Trinamool Congress or the twin florets symbol, both of which depict grassroots. Since the Trinamool Congress came into being on New Years Day in 1998, its meteoric rise, spearheaded by Mamata Banerjee, culminated in the fall of the states red bastion and turned her into a political cult figure. Most leaders and workers, who swore by the Trinamool, however, had trouble with the r. Thus, in rallies and processions, slogans often went: Who goes there Tinamool, Tinamool? or Wholl win Tinamool, Tinamool. Despite the distorting but harmless renaming, this slightly warped version echoed in debates and discussions at tea stalls and street corners. Yet the name and symbol stood for Mamatas achievements, with followers revering her as benefactor and final authority. Over time, however, that reverence was tested amid allegations of misconduct and misappropriation within the ranks, leading to the regime's fall and subsequent erosion and division.
West Bengals rival Trinamool factions receive new names and symbols, alongside controversies over bureaucratic discrimination, a massive welfare scam in Odisha, and diplomatic talks with Bangladesh. More about all this in todays above the fold episode.
West Bengals rival Trinamool factions receive new names and symbols, alongside controversies over bureaucratic discrimination, a massive welfare scam in Odisha, and diplomatic talks with Bangladesh. More about all this in todays above the fold episode.
12,000 CISF personnel deployed against coal mafia in Jharkhand, West Bengal
Force says 10 units involved in operations against pilferage of coal; more than 10,000 tonnes of coal recovered since July
Nandigram bypoll: Congress candidate Milan Pradhan arrested in 2007 case
Congress candidate Milan Pradhan was arrested ahead of the October 6 Nandigram bypoll in West Bengal. The action came hours after Mamata Banerjee announced support for Pradhan following her factions candidate's withdrawal from the contest
TMC name and symbol frozen: Mamata, Ritabrata factions get new identities
The Election Commission has assigned new names and symbols to the rival Trinamool Congress factions for the October 6 West Bengal bypolls.
Milan Pradhan Arrested Hours After Mamata Backs Congress Candidate In Nandigram Bypoll: Reports
Congress candidate Milan Pradhan was arrested in West Bengal on Friday in connection with an old alleged murder case, hours after former chief minister Mamata Banerjee announced that her faction would support his candidature in the October 6 Nandigram Assembly bypoll. The arrest triggered a fresh political controversy in West Bengal, with Congress leaders questioning [] The post Milan Pradhan Arrested Hours After Mamata Backs Congress Candidate In Nandigram Bypoll: Reports appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
After Mamata vows support, Congress Nandigram candidate held
Kolkata: Milan Pradhan, the Congress candidate for the forthcoming bypoll for the Nandigram Assembly constituency in the East Midnapore district of West Bengal, was arrested on Friday, September 18, in an old case, confirmed an official of the East Midnapore district police. The arrests took place hours after Sanchita Dey Pradhan, the candidate 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 .
TMC Mine Until...: Mamata Supports Congress In Nandigram Bypoll; Ritabratas Cult Jibe At Didi
Former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday called the developments surrounding the Trinamool Congress internal factional dispute a black day in Indias democratic history after her camps Nandigram bypoll candidate Sanchita Dey Pradhan withdrew her nomination. Mamata alleged that the developments were unconstitutional, illegal, undemocratic and a biased vendetta. The withdrawal came after Pradhan met West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, with a photograph of the meeting circulating on social media, though its authenticity could not be confirmed. Mamata announced support for the Congress candidate in Nandigram and Assam. The Election Commission assigned Mamatas faction the name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the football player symbol, while the Arup Roy-led rebel camp was given Democratic Trinamool Congress with the envelope symbol.
Bengal: Congress candidate for Nandigram bypoll arrested in an old case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 18 (IANS) Milan Pradhan, the Congress candidate for the forthcoming bypoll for Nandigram Assembly constituency in East Midnapore district of West Bengal, was arrested on Friday in an old case, confirmed an official of the East Midnapore district police. The arrests took place hours after Sanchita Dey Pradhan, the candidate from the Mamata Banerjee-led faction in the Trinamool Congress for the bypoll in Nandigram, withdrew her nomination and the former West Bengal Chief Minister announced her support towards Congress in Nandigram. An insider from the district police said that the Congress candidate from Nandigram was accused in an old murder case. A warrant was already also issued in his name, and he was arrested in connection with it on Friday, said the district police officer. The Congress candidates arrest before the bypoll created a stir in the political circles in West Bengal. The Congress alleged that the BJP did not want to have anything called opposition before the elections. West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee (WBPCC) president Subhankar Sarkar told media persons that suddenly a case was filed against Milan, and he was arrested thereafter. In this way, the BJP is trying to create a one-party rule in West Bengal. Will there be no opposition politics in this state as well as in the country? questioned Sarkar and said the current ruling party in the state hatched a political conspiracy in the arrest of his party's candidate. However, the BJPs East Midnapore district rubbished the allegation and claimed that the party had no connection with the arrest of the Congress candidate. Nandigram, along with Rejinagar Assembly Constituency in Murshidabad district, is going to bypolls on October 6 and the results will be declared on November 9. In the Assembly elections held earlier this year, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari won from both Nandigram and Bhabanipur. He defeated former CM and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur and chose to retain that seat, leaving Nandigram vacant and necessitating the bypoll. BJP has fielded Hasirani Rath, mother of Adhikaris personal assistant Chandranath Rath, who was shot dead in North 24 Parganas on May 6, soon after the Assembly election results were announced. Her candidature has added an emotional element to the campaign.
Bengal: Mahua Moitra files complaint against BJP workers over egg attack
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 18 (IANS) Trinamool Congress (TMC) Lok Sabha member from Krishnanagar constituency in Nadia district of West Bengal, Mahua Moitra, on Friday lodged a complaint at Tehatta Police Station in the same district against eight Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) activists over the alleged egg attack on her while she went to attend a party meeting at Tehatta on September 16. Among the eight BJP activists named in the complaint are the panchayat samiti chief and deputy chief of Tehatta-I block. Confirming the development, a district police officer said that based on the complaint filed by the Lok Sabha member, the police had started an investigation. CCTV and video footage of the entire incident is being examined, the officer said. Meanwhile, the BJPs Nadia district leadership denied the allegations. BJP legislator from Tehatta Assembly Constituency, Subrata Kobiraj, said no BJP worker or supporter was involved in the incident. He added that the protest against the MPs controversial comments about Hindu gods and goddesses had aroused strong anger among the people, and Wednesdays development was a manifestation of that spontaneous public anger. On Wednesday, Moitra shared videos of the incident on social media and claimed that BJP office-bearers surrounded the venue of her party meeting and targeted her convoy as she departed. Referring to a recent observation by Supreme Court judge Justice Dipankar Datta that politicians should not be overly concerned about egg attacks when freedom fighters had faced bullets, she said she had confronted the situation in the same spirit. Moitra remarked that on Wednesday she was both an MP in independent India and also a freedom fighter. BJP office-bearers, not the public, surrounded my meeting and pelted eggs as I left. Thank you, MiLord, for upholding our Constitutional protections, she said. She also criticised the officer-in-charge of Tehatta Police Station for allegedly claiming that she attended the meeting without informing him. The Tehatta IC, Supriya Ranjan Maji, said on camera that nobody informed him about my visit. Whereas, the district police superintendent of Nadia issued a letter, cc to him, about my Tehatta visit. Does Mr Maji also have the BJP disease of short-term memory loss? Disgraceful, Moitra added.
Rahul Gandhi Speaks To Mamata Banerjee After ECI Freezes TMC Name, Symbol
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi spoke with former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday after the Election Commission of India (ECI) froze the All India Trinamool Congress name and its traditional Flowers and Grass symbol ahead of the upcoming state bypolls. Banerjee later said that she and Gandhi discussed working together against the BJP. [] The post Rahul Gandhi Speaks To Mamata Banerjee After ECI Freezes TMC Name, Symbol appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Bengal: Maoist leader remanded to police custody till Sep 29
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 18 (IANS) A lower court remanded senior CPI (Maoist) leader Asim Mandal, alias Akash, Timir and Manoj to police custody until September 29 on Friday. He was arrested on Thursday by the Special Task Force (STF) of Kolkata from Patashpur in East Midnapore district After being presented in court, counsel for the Kolkata Police STF told the court that there were 55 cases against Akash in West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha. The Jharkhand and Odisha governments had announced a reward of Rs 2.2 crore. Akash is an active member of a banned organisation. His activities harmed the sovereignty and integrity of the state. He was also responsible for creating a cycle of illegal activities and sabotage involving the three states. He used to hide himself by frequently changing names, the STF counsel told the court. No bail application was moved on behalf of Akash. His counsel, Yasin Rahman, told the court that accusations of sabotage had been made against Akash for decades. However, many people involved in this force before 2011 have since become heroes in society and mainstream political figures. Akashs arrest is being viewed as a significant success for security agencies and a major setback to Maoist activities in the tribal and forested regions spread across the three eastern states. A native of Fulchak village under Chandrakona Police Station in West Midnapore district, Mandal is said to have become involved in Left-Wing extremist activities during his student years in the 1980s. He later joined the Peoples War Group and worked extensively in the Sarenga and Goaltor regions of West Bengal as well as the Gurabanda area of Jharkhands East Singhbhum district. Security agencies records show that nearly 55 serious criminal cases are registered against him across Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal. Several of these cases relate to attacks on security forces and armed encounters in Jharkhand. Following the formation of CPI (Maoist) in September 2004, he returned to the Jangalmahal region spanning parts of Bankura, Purulia and West Midnapore districts. He became actively involved in the outfits activities. He also played a key role during the Lalgarh movement, after which he was entrusted with the responsibility of Secretary of the West Bengal State Committee in 2010. He later held important positions in the Bengal-Jharkhand-Odisha Regional Committee. According to police sources, the Maoist network in West Bengal suffered a major setback after the November 2011 encounter killing of senior Maoist leader Kishanji. Thereafter, Mandal is said to have gone completely underground and remained elusive for years until his arrest on Thursday.
Candidate from Mamata Banerjee-led faction withdraws nomination in Nandigram
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 18 (IANS) Sanchita Dey Pradhan, the candidate from the Mamata Banerjee-led faction in the Trinamool Congress for the bypoll in Nandigram Assembly Constituency in East Midnapore district of West Bengal, withdrew her nomination on Friday afternoon after a meeting with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. Soon after, at a press conference at her residence in Kalighat, South Kolkata, Mamata Banerjee, the former West Bengal Chief Minister, announced that she would extend her support to Congress candidate Milan Pradhan in Nandigram. Both developments followed the Election Commission of India (ECI) decision earlier in the day to allot new names and symbols to two rival factions in the Trinamool Congress: one led by Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, and the other by expelled party legislator Ritabrata Banerjee. After Sanchita Dey Pradhan withdrew her nomination following the meeting with the Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee told media persons at her residence that she had decided to support the Congress candidate in Nandigram. We will not contest in Nandigram. We will support our sister party, Congress. This will strengthen the INDIA bloc, the former West Bengal Chief Minister said. She added that the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, had called her on Thursday night, after which she decided to support the Congress. We are all together; we will fight together. We will support all normal alliances. We will support our sister parties, she said. Regarding the Rejinagar Assembly Constituency in Murshidabad district, which is also going for bypolls next month, Mamata Banerjee said that a decision would be taken later. After seizing power in the state with the Congress in 2011, ending the 34-year Left Front rule, this is the first time Mamata Banerjee has publicly expressed support for a Congress candidate in Nandigram. Political observers believe this move is possibly a face-saving exercise for the former Chief Minister amid the current situation within her party. Tension over the symbol began Thursday night when the ECI announced its decision to freeze the name All India Trinamool Congress temporarily and the symbol Flowers & Grass. On Friday, the Commission allotted the Mamata Banerjee-led faction the new name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the symbol Football Players. The rival Ritabrata-led faction was allotted the name Democratic Trinamool Congress and the symbol Envelope. The dramatic turn in the Nandigram by-election came after Sanchita Dey Pradhan met Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari at the state secretariat Nabanna and subsequently withdrew her nomination at the office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Haldia.
Major Reshuffle in West Bengal BJP as Samik Bhattacharya Approves New Appointments
The BJP in West Bengal announces key appointments to strengthen its organizational structure under Samik Bhattacharyas leadership. Major Reshuffle in West Bengal BJP as Samik Bhattacharya Approves New Appointments
The new symbol for Mamata's party is...
The Election Commission has allotted the 'Football Player' symbol to the Mamata Banerjee-led faction of the Trinamool Congress for the upcoming West Bengal bypolls, while the rival Arup Roy-led group will contest with the 'Envelope' symbol.
TMC Split: Mamata Banerjee Faction Gets Football Player Symbol, Arup Roy Camp Gets Envelope
The Election Commission on Friday has allotted new names and election symbols to the two rival factions of Trinamool Congress ahead of West Bengal bypolls. The move comes after the poll panel stopped both the factions using the original TMC name
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Congress MP slams EC over freezing of TMC name, symbol
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 18 (IANS) Congress MP Imran Masood, reacting to the Election Commissions decision to freeze the Trinamool Congress (TMC)s name and election symbol on Friday, said that the EC has become a oy. Speaking to IANS Masood said, This is very dangerous for democracy. The Election Commission has become a toy and is being used like one. First Shiv Sena, then NCP, and now TMC. This means you will neither spare the parties nor the votes, you will steal the votes as well as the parties. It takes years to make an election symbol reach the people, and you will simply freeze the election symbol. A party is built through its organisation, not just through MPs and MLAs Meanwhile, on the ECIs interim order, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said, This party was founded by Mamata Banerjee through her own strength, hard work and struggle, and she built the party. The Trinamool Congress has made a significant contribution to the politics of the state and the country. Just as the Shiv Sena belongs to Balasaheb Thackeray, the Trinamool Congress belongs to Mamata Banerjee, and the Nationalist Congress Party belongs to Sharad Pawar The remarks came after the Election Commission ordered an interim freeze on the name and election symbol of the All India Trinamool Congress and directed the rival factions to choose new names and symbols until the dispute is settled. The Commissions decision has significant implications for the upcoming Assembly by-polls in West Bengal. The EC has announced by-polls in two constituencies, Nandigram and Rejinagar, to be held on October 6. In its order, the EC said it had considered the material available before it and concluded that there were two rival groups within the All India Trinamool Congress, each claiming to represent the party. On due consideration of the totality of information available on record, the Commission is of the opinion that there are two rival groups in the All India Trinamool Congress, one led by Mamata Banerjee and the other led by Shri Arup Roy, and each group is now claiming to be the party and therefore the matter requires a substantive determination by the Commission under Para 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation & Allotment) Order 1968, the EC order said.
TMC split: Mamata Banerjee faction gets football player symbol
The faction led by Banerjee has been allotted the name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the Football Player symbol. It will be treated as a recognised political party in West Bengal, Meghalaya, and Tripura
Mahua Moitra alleges discrimination against Muslim bureaucrats
Trinamool MP writes to National Commission of Minorities alleging Muslim IAS, IPS officers were excluded from events involving Amit Shah in West Bengal
TMC Split: Didis Faction Gets Footballer Symbol, Rebels Get Envelope
The group led by Mamata Banerjee has been allotted the name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the Football Player symbol and will be treated as a recognised political party in West Bengal, Meghalaya and Tripura
ECI allots new names, symbols to rival Trinamool factions
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 18 (IANS) The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Friday allotted new names and election symbols to the two rival factions of the erstwhile All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), pending a final decision on the ownership of the party's original name and its iconic Flowers & Grass symbol. According to an ECI notification issued on Friday, the faction led by former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee, described by the Commission as the original but minority group, has been allotted the name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the election symbol Football Player. The faction has been recognised as a political party in West Bengal, Meghalaya and Tripura. The rival faction led by expelled Trinamool Congress legislator Ritabrata Banerjee, which the Commission termed the rebel but majority group, has been allotted the name Democratic Trinamool Congress and the symbol Envelope. It has also been recognised as a political party in West Bengal, Meghalaya and Tripura. The ECI clarified that the newly allotted names and symbols will remain in force until it delivers a final verdict on the claim to the original party name, All India Trinamool Congress, and its longstanding Flowers & Grass symbol. Until then, both factions will contest elections under their newly assigned identities. The order will apply to the upcoming Assembly bypolls in Nandigram in East Midnapore district and Rejinagar in Murshidabad district, scheduled for October 6, with counting of votes on October 9. Similarly, the Mamata Banerjee-led faction's candidate in the Nagaon Lok Sabha bypoll in Assam will contest under the banner of Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the Football Player symbol. Founded in 1998 after Mamata Banerjee's split from the Congress, the Trinamool Congress has fought all elections since its inception under the name All India Trinamool Congress and the Flowers & Grass symbol. The party came to power in West Bengal in 2011 and has remained the state's ruling force since then. With the latest ECI order, West Bengal is set to witness its first election since 1998 without the original Trinamool name and symbol on the ballot.
Allocation of Shiv Sena symbol to rebel faction a multi-crore scam, says Sanjay Raut
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 18 (IANS) In a sharp attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Centre, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Friday alleged that allocating the original 'Bow and Arrow' symbol to the rival faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, was a multi-hundred crore scam. Speaking to reporters, the Rajya Sabha MP accused the Election Commission of operating under political pressure and acting as a tool for the ruling NDA regime at the Centre. Raut claimed the Election Commission has functioned like a domestic servant of Union Home Minister Amit Shah for the past 1012 years, compromising its constitutional independence. He alleged that under political pressure, the Election Commission failed to deliver justice to the original Shiv Sena founded by Balasaheb Thackeray. Raut emphasised that the soul of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution is to preserve the identity of the original political partya spirit he claimed was completely ignored in this decision. Raut made scathing remarks against both serving and former Election Commissioners, accusing them of surrendering their autonomy to Home Minister Shah. Drawing parallels outside Maharashtra, Raut pointed out that similar tactics to trigger splits and undermine regional parties are being attempted elsewhere, such as in West Bengal's Trinamool Congress. The statement adds fresh momentum to the ongoing political war of words in Maharashtra between the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and the ruling coalition. Raut's move to target the poll panel comes a day after the Election Commission issued an interim order on Thursday freezing the official name 'Trinamool Congress' and its iconic 'Joda Ghash Phool (Twin Flowers in Grass)' election symbol. This decision follows claims staked by two rival factions within the party ahead of the forthcoming Assembly bypolls in Nandigram and Rejinagar. According to the Election Commission, neither group can use the 'Trinamool Congress' party name or its official symbol for the upcoming October 6 bypolls until a final decision is made. Both factions were directed to submit their newly-chosen temporary party names and preferred free symbols to the Election Commission. The Mamata Banerjee-led faction criticised the order as unconstitutional but indicated it would comply with procedural steps while pursuing further legal remedies, while representatives from the Ritabrata Banerjee-led faction welcomed the poll panel's decision.
Democracy in danger if Election Commission acts under pressure: Raut over TMC order
Mumbai, Sep 18 (PTI) Democracy is in danger in India if the Election Commission is issuing decisions under duress, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut alleged on Friday after the poll body ordered freezing of the Trinamool Congresss name and symbol. Speaking to reporters, Raut asserted that the TMC belongs to former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, and accused the BJP of engineering a split in the party. In its interim order issued on Thursday night, the Election Commission, after hearing leaders of the two factions led by Mamata Banerjee and Arup Roy, said the matter requires substantive determination
The Election Commission has named Mamata Banerjee's group and allotted a football symbol. A rebel faction received the Democratic Trinamool Congress name and envelope symbol. Both groups are recognized political parties in West Bengal, Meghalaya, and Tripura. The Commission had previously frozen the original party name and symbol. This decision impacts upcoming by-elections in West Bengal and Assam.
Over 37 lakh electoral roll appeals pending in West Bengal
The Election Commission has informed the Supreme Court that over 37 lakh appeals concerning deletions or inclusions in West Bengal's electoral rolls remain pending under the Special Intensive Revision. The apex court-appointed tribunals have disposed of only a fraction of the 38.20 lakh appeals filed, prompting the Supreme Court to seek data and a plan for streamlining the adjudication process.
West Bengal nurse attacked by husband in Bengaluru had complained to police earlier; remains in ICU
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 18 (IANS) Madhumita, a young nurse who was attacked by her husband Venkateshan near the hospital where she worked in Bengaluru, continues to receive treatment in the ICU of a private hospital in the city and her condition still remains critical, police said on Friday. It has emerged that she had complained to the police earlier about his behaviour and the cops had contacted Venkateshan and directed him to appear for questioning. According to the police, Venkateshan allegedly chased Madhumita near the hospital on Thursday, threw an acid-like liquid at her and subsequently attacked her with deadly weapons more than 10 times in full public view. Police said Madhumita and Venkateshan had met through a dating app and got married in 2024 before settling in Bengaluru. However, Madhumita had reportedly been maintaining a distance from her husband for the past six months. According to the investigation, Venkateshan secured a job with an oil company in Chennai and moved there. He had repeatedly insisted that Madhumita accompany him, but she refused to move to Chennai. Madhumita had allegedly told Venkateshan not to touch her and said that she had started disliking him. She also reportedly avoided his calls, leading to frequent arguments between the couple. About six months ago, Venkateshan allegedly came near the clinic where Madhumita worked and created a ruckus following an argument with her. The clinic staff intervened, reprimanded him and sent him away. Following the incident, Madhumita lodged a complaint with a police station in Bengaluru. Police subsequently contacted Venkateshan and directed him to appear for questioning. However, Venkateshan allegedly failed to appear before the police and instead continued to threaten Madhumita over the phone, according to the police. On Thursday, he allegedly came near the hospital carrying an acid-like liquid and deadly weapons and waited for Madhumita. When she arrived, he allegedly chased and attacked her. The incident took place in public view and left Madhumita seriously injured. She was shifted to a private hospital, where she continues to undergo treatment in the ICU. Venkateshan has been arrested and remanded to judicial custody. Police are continuing their investigation into the attack and the circumstances leading up to it. DCP South, Dr. Vamshi Krishna, who visited the spot, had said the accused Venkateshan, allegedly attacked Madhumita with a machete and a long knife after throwing a liquid suspected to be acid, on her. The incident took place around 9.15 a.m. near Narayana Hospital, where Madhumita works as a nurse. According to the DCP, the accused wore a helmet during the assault and used two deadly weapons in the attack. The accused has used a liquid similar to acid and assaulted the woman with a machete and a long knife. The couple are husband and wife, and the incident is suspected to have taken place against the backdrop of a family dispute, Dr. Vamshi Krishna said. Police said Venkateshan has been arrested and is being questioned.
Vote Chori, Government Chori, Now Party Chori: Rahul Gandhi Hits Out at EC Over TMC Symbol Freeze
Congress leader and leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi criticised the Election Commission over its decision to bar Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress factions from using party name and their party symbol 'flowers and grass' in the West Bengal bypolls. He
Mamata Faction Submits New Choices To EC After TMC Name-Symbol Freeze For Bengal Bypoll
The Election Commission has temporarily barred both rival Trinamool Congress factions from using the partys name and its reserved Flowers and Grass symbol in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly bypolls. The interim order applies to the October 6 elections in Nandigram and Rejinagar, where both factions have fielded candidates. The Mamata Banerjee-led camp has rejected the order as contrary to law, while the rival faction has welcomed the move. The poll panel has directed both groups to choose separate names and symbols for the bypolls. They must submit three preferred options each. The arrangement will remain in force until the Commission takes a final decision on the dispute under Paragraph 15 of the Election Symbols Order, 1968.
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ECI freezes Trinamool Congress
NEW DELHI, Sept 18: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has barred both rival factions of the Trinamool Congress from using the partys name and reserved Flowers and Grass symbol in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly bypolls in Nandigram and Rejinagar. In an interim order issued on Thursday, the Commission said neither the faction led [] The post ECI freezes Trinamool Congress name and symbol appeared first on Northlines .
