BJP leaders criticise Mamata-Congress bonhomie
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari accused Mamata Banerjee of allying with anarchists in Delhi
Buxa tigress captured in Assam after crossing into Raimona reserve for habitat exploration
BuxaRani, a tigress relocated from Buxa Tiger Reserve, was tranquilized and captured in Assam's Kokrajhar. After crossing the Sankosh river, the tigress entered Raimona National Park in search of suitable territory. West Bengal Forest Minister Manoj Oraon confirmed coordination efforts with Assam's officials to ensure her return.
Womens self-help groups shine at SARAS Mela
Srinagar, Nov 03: The 10-day SARAS Mela 2025 concluded on Tuesday here at Poloview Park celebrating Indias unity in diversity and promoting women entrepreneurship nationwide. The Mela which began here at the poloview park Srinagar on 25th October continued till today, offering the visitors a myriad collection of hand made products and cuisines from across the country. More than 200 women artisans from different parts of rural India participated and showcased their products on 80 stalls provided by the JKRLM for exhibition and sale. Women from self-help groups from 17 states /UTs displayed handicraft, handloom and natural food items from different rural areas in the vibrant stalls handled and managed by Women SHG members. Some of the prominent items displayed at the stalls were the handmade cloth from Jammu-Kashmir with sozni and ariwork, Kutchi handloom from Gujurat ,Phulkari suits from Punjab ,Pickles from Lakshwadeep, Pochampalli Ikkat from Telengana, Sambhalpuri from odisha, Kantha from West Bengal and many more . Addressing the gathering at the closing ceremony, Mission Director JKRLM, Dr Shubhra Sharma, expressed satisfaction over the successful culmination of the Mela, highlighting the encouraging sales, participation of women entrepreneurs from different States/UTs and the overall coordination of the event. She remarked, This year's SARAS Mela has recorded encouraging sales, while the participation of different States and UTs has made it a truly enriching experience. She added,the very purpose of organising the SARAS Mela has been fulfilled. Beyond business and the showcasing of products, the Mela has provided a shared platform where SHG members from across the country have come together, built bonds of friendship, shared experiences and explored opportunities for mutual learning and economic gains. Dr Shubhra Sharma also expressed her gratitude to the line departments for their active participation and support throughout the Mela. She particularly acknowledged the media for its coverage and for helping bring the stories, products and entrepreneurial efforts of rural women to a wider audience. The Mela concluded with a felicitation ceremony, where SHG members were awarded certificates for their outstanding contributions. In the awards category, Rajashtan secured first position for best sales, while Srinagar district bagged the top honour in the best food category. The closing ceremony was attended by Additional Mission Director JKRLM Syed Naseer Ahmad, State project Managers JKRLM besides other staff members of the Mission
Sharadwat seeks independent agency probe into Swasthya Sathi scam
Old Kol phanush flyers run between govt depts for nod
BJP netas union rift brings cargo ops to a halt at Petrapole
Garia burglars audacity captured in CCTV footage sends shockwaves among locals
After pushback, CISCE asks schools, students to get ready for SHINE, PISA
Cannes winner Anuparna Roy seeks resignation of SRFTI VC and revocation of students rustication
Calcutta High Court on Free School Street fire
50 offices stay shut in fire-hit building behind Writers, officers suspect short circuit
Dip in gold, silver prices adds glitz to jewellery mkt in festive season
Kolkata advocate attacked after refusing puja subscription demand
In a first, KMC engineers join cops to inspect stability of Kali Puja pandals
Hanuman Ansh director urges dialogue
West Bengal tigress safely captured in Assam after travelling over 100 km from Buxa Tiger Reserve
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 3 (IANS) A tigress from West Bengal's Buxa Tiger Reserve, which travelled more than 100 km across state boundaries before reaching human settlements in Assam's Kokrajhar district, has been safely captured following a coordinated operation involving forest officials from the two states, Assam Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah said on Tuesday. Sharing details of the operation in a post on social media platform X, Mallabaruah described it as a commendable example of inter-state coordination and collective commitment to wildlife conservation. He congratulated the forest departments of Assam and West Bengal, district administration, police personnel and local communities for ensuring the safe capture of the animal. The tigress, identified as BT1, was released into the wild at Buxa Tiger Reserve on October 2. However, she subsequently travelled more than 100 km and entered Assam, eventually reaching Raimona National Park in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). According to the Minister, the tigress continued moving through forested landscapes from October 23 onwards before approaching human settlements in Kokrajhar district, prompting concerns over the safety of both the animal and local residents. Considering the potential risks, forest officials from West Bengal and Assam initiated a coordinated operation to track the tigress, monitor her movements and assess the situation. The operation also involved the support of the district administration, police and local communities. The coordinated intervention eventually resulted in the safe capture of BT1, preventing a potentially dangerous situation as the animal had moved closer to inhabited areas. Mallabaruah emphasised that wildlife movement does not remain confined to administrative boundaries and that such incidents underline the importance of cooperation between neighbouring states in protecting wildlife. He said inter-state coordination was particularly crucial in landscapes where animal movement frequently extends beyond protected forest areas and into human settlements. Congratulating all the teams involved, the Minister said the successful operation demonstrated how collective efforts by forest departments, law enforcement agencies, local administration and communities could deliver meaningful outcomes for wildlife conservation. BT1 is safe, and that is what matters most, Mallabaruah said, describing the operation as an important example of cooperation between states for wildlife protection. The incident also highlights the importance of coordinated wildlife monitoring and timely intervention in the transboundary forest corridors of Northeast India, where the movement of large mammals often extends across protected areas and state boundaries.
Calcutta University fills all 187 vacant BTech seats in single campus round
Thane mans organs saves 3 lives after brain death in Kolkata
42 rare golden coin turtles seized in Howrah
Ghum Winter Festival to mark 27 years of DHRs Unesco heritage status
State signs MoU with NBCC for city and riverfront revamp: Minister
Kolkata Police inducts 4 horses, eyes Republic Day parade
West Bengal's first relocated tigress captured on sojourn in Assam, returned to Buxa
TMC Leader Criticizes Bageshwar Babas Political Influence in West Bengal
TMCs Madan Mitra questions Bageshwar Babas influence in West Bengal and criticizes BJPs political stance. TMC Leader Criticizes Bageshwar Babas Political Influence in West Bengal
Kolkata: Rahul Gandhi's 'sleeping posters' surface in Salt Lake
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) Parts of Salt Lake in the northern outskirts of Kolkata, on Tuesday, were flooded with posters featuring pictures of Congress leader and the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi taking a nap when the House was in session. The posters also carried a slogan -- Desh Ki Neta Aisa Ho? (Should the country have a leader like this). However, it is still not clear who put up such posters, and no individual or group has claimed responsibility for it. The said posters depicted two separate pictures of the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. In one picture, Rahul Gandhi is seen sitting with his hands on his cheeks, and his eyes closed during a session of the Parliament. In another picture, he is seen sitting in a reclining position with his hands on the seat within the House. The message conveyed through the poster is that Rahul Gandhi was sleeping inside the Parliament when the House was in session. The development surfaces at a time when Rahul Gandhi is spearheading a movement at New Delhi, uniting all the opposition forces against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voters' lists in the country as well as demanding the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on the other hand, had started a counter campaign throughout the country under the aegis of Save Democracy, Eliminate Anarchy. On Monday, a mega rally on this count was organised in Kolkata, which was led by the BJP President Nitin Nabin. At the end of the rally, Nabin addressed a gathering and said that just as West Bengal had been freed from the misrule of Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress in the Assembly polls earlier this year, now Delhi too needs to be freed from Rahul Gandhi quickly. On Tuesday, a similar rally was organised at Siliguri in Darjeeling district, which was led by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. On Tuesday, the Chief Minister said that the Election Commission of India (ECI) is trying to eliminate illegal infiltrators from the voters' list while Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi were trying to protect them.
ABVP announces 'Kolkata Chalo' rally on November 20
At a press conference at the ABVP's West Bengal state office, the organisation's leaders called for protecting democratic institutions and constitutional values.
West Bengal Official Arrested for Bribery in North 24 Parganas
A West Bengal official was caught accepting a bribe of 20,000 for a new electricity connection in North 24 Parganas. West Bengal Official Arrested for Bribery in North 24 Parganas
West Bengal Chief Minister Unveils Plans for Health and Tourism Development
West Bengals CM announces major health and tourism initiatives in Siliguri, enhancing infrastructure and services in North Bengal. West Bengal Chief Minister Unveils Plans for Health and Tourism Development
West Bengal CM Accuses Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee of Protecting Illegal Immigrants
West Bengals CM criticizes Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee for allegedly shielding illegal immigrants during a press conference. West Bengal CM Accuses Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee of Protecting Illegal Immigrants
Bengal CM announces Rs 5,000 aid for 19,524 tea garden workers ahead of Diwali
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced financial assistance of Rs 5,000 for tea garden workers. The government is considering increasing rice allocation from 35 kg to 50 kg for these workers. Adhikari emphasized the commitment to reopen closed tea gardens for better employment opportunities. He also mentioned upcoming employment benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Chaa Shramik Yojana for eligible workers.
Bengal govt official held while accepting bribe in North 24 Parganas
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) of the West Bengal Police on Tuesday arrested an official of the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) after catching him red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000 in New Barrackpore of North 24 Parganas district, officials said. According to the ACB, the official was accused of accepting bribes for installing a new electricity connection and transformer. According to ACB officials, the arrest followed a written complaint lodged by a local resident, who alleged that the official had demanded Rs 20,000 to facilitate the installation of a new electricity connection and a 315 KVA transformer in the area. Acting on the complaint, ACB officers conducted a verification exercise and laid a trap. As part of the operation, the complainant met the accused official at a pre-arranged location on Tuesday and handed over the money. The ACB team immediately intervened and apprehended the official while allegedly receiving the bribe. The entire amount was recovered from his possession. Following preliminary investigations, a case has been registered against the accused under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Investigators are now examining whether other individuals were involved in the alleged bribery network or if the accused was acting on behalf of a larger group. The arrest was made based on a case registered under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended by the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, an official said. The latest action comes a day after the ACB arrested a suspended sub-assistant engineer of Raghunathpur Municipality in Purulia district in connection with multiple corruption allegations. The probe involves alleged corruption, misappropriation of government funds, irregularities in municipal works and suspected irregularities related to government land.
Bengal CM announces healthcare and tourism sectors development
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The West Bengal Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, on Tuesday, chaired an administrative review meeting at Siliguri in Darjeeling district in the northern sector of West Bengal and made a host of announcements for the overall development of the healthcare and tourism sectors in the hill regions in North Bengal. The Chief Minister announced that the foundation stone of Kalimpong Medical College & Hospital will be laid on December 9, 2027. In addition to that, we have decided to carry out extensive repairs, modernisation and infrastructural improvements to the sub-division and district hospitals of Darjeeling, Kurseong, Kalimpong, Mirik and Siliguri, the Chief Minister said. According to the Chief Minister, strengthening the health infrastructure in North Bengal will ensure access to improved medical services for thousands of people staying in the region, and they will not have to move elsewhere to get proper treatment facilities. He also announced the approval for a 21-kilometre ropeway project connecting Darjeeling and Kurseong. According to him, once this ropeway project is operational in mountainous areas, it will not only relieve the problem of severe traffic congestion but will also make travel much easier and more enjoyable both for the residents and the tourists from home and abroad. The Chief Minister, at the administrative review meeting, also gave directions to complete the repair and renovation work of all government tourist lodges in the region at the earliest. He also gave a green signal to the proposal to upgrade the Lebong Ground into a modern stadium of international standards to develop the talent of the sports-loving youth of the hills. The Chief Minister also announced an allocation of Rs 19 crore for the beautification, infrastructural transformation and regular maintenance of the sacred and historical Mahakal Temple premises in Darjeeling. Thanking the Chief Minister for these announcements, the BJPs Lok Sabha member from Darjeeling, Raju Bista, said that the expansion of communication systems, health services, sports and spiritual tourism will create employment opportunities for the local youth and completely transform the economic landscape of North Bengal.
Tigress sighting: Kokrajhar admin declares 5-km zone around Assam village restricted
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 3 (IANS) The Kokrajhar district administration in Assam has imposed prohibitory restrictions within a five-kilometre radius of Gelaguri village following the sighting of a female Royal Bengal tigress reportedly straying into the area from neighbouring West Bengal, officials said on Tuesday. The restrictions were imposed through an order issued by District Magistrate Pankaj Chakravarty under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, citing potential threats to human life and livestock and the need to ensure an uninterrupted operation to capture the animal. According to the administration, the tigress was first spotted on November 2 in the forest-fringe areas of Gelaguri village under the Dotma Revenue Circle. The Divisional Forest Officer of the Kachugaon Forest Division had reported the animal's presence. The restricted zone includes Gelaguri, East Bongshigaon, West Dangarkhuti, North Bhalukmari, Dangarkhuti and Ghoramari villages. Under the order, gatherings of five or more people for watching or chasing the animal have been prohibited. Entry into forest and jungle patches within the designated area will require prior permission from the Divisional Forest Officer concerned. The administration has also banned carrying firearms, traditional weapons such as daos and spears, traps, poison and snares within the restricted zone. Activities that could disturb the animal or hamper the rescue operation, including bursting firecrackers, beating drums, using loudspeakers, lighting fires and deploying flashlights to locate the tigress, have also been prohibited. Private drone operations and photography or videography of the capture operation will require prior authorisation. The order further cautions against spreading rumours or unverified information on social media, particularly claims describing the tigress as a man-eater or alleging that it has been shot. Authorised forest personnel, wildlife experts from the Wildlife Trust of India and National Tiger Conservation Authority, police and other government teams deployed for the operation have been exempted. The restrictions will remain effective until the Divisional Forest Officer formally declares the capture operation concluded. Violations will attract prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
Birbhum District Health and Family Welfare Samity Recruitment 2026
Birbhum District Health and Family Welfare Samity (Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health & Secretary, District Health and Family Welfare Samity, AYUSH Branch, Birbhum), Government of West Bengal has released Notification No. 453 /DMO/AYUSH/ Birbhum for 7 vacancies, including Ayush Doctor, Multi-Purpose Worker, and DATA Entry Operator NAM posts. Eligible candidates can apply online at wbhealth.gov.in from 03 November 2026 to 17 November 2026.
West Bengal Madhyamik 2027: WBBSE proposes postponement of Class 10 exams to March over Census duty
Young Santoor Prodigy From Bengal Sets Record With 60 Gats Across 59 Ragas In Under 30 Minutes
Young musician Angshuman Sarkar from Nadia, West Bengal, earns an India Book of Records recognition by performing 60 gat compositions across 59 ragas in 29 minutes and 32 seconds.
West Bengal Board of Secondary Education has submitted a proposal seeking approval of revised dates, citing deployment of teachers for Census exercise
West Bengal Police Busts Major Betel Nut Smuggling Ring, Chief Minister Praises Action
West Bengal police seized over 117,000 kg of suspected betel nut in a major bust, earning commendation from the Chief Minister. West Bengal Police Busts Major Betel Nut Smuggling Ring, Chief Minister Praises Action
Eight Trekkers Missing in Uttarakhand Avalanche, Rescue Efforts Underway
Eight trekkers, including five from West Bengal, are missing in Uttarakhand following an avalanche. Rescue operations are ongoing. Eight Trekkers Missing in Uttarakhand Avalanche, Rescue Efforts Underway
Major Betel Nut Syndicate Busted In West Bengal
West Bengal police, led by Falakata Police in Alipurduar district, have busted a large illegal betel nut syndicate, seizing over 117,000 kg of produce, much of which is believed to be of foreign origin. Two individuals were apprehended, and further raids are ongoing as the state government reaffirms its commitment to combating illicit trade.
West Bengal Board Sends Proposal To Education Department To Hold Class 10 Exam In March
The board has sent a revised examination schedule to the state education department for consideration, proposing to conduct the exams from March 2 to 16.
Cyclone Murasu Delays Winter Onset in West Bengal, Relief Expected Before Kali Puja
Cyclone Murasu is causing a delay in winter temperatures in West Bengal, with a forecast for improvement before Kali Puja on November 8. Cyclone Murasu Delays Winter Onset in West Bengal, Relief Expected Before Kali Puja
West Bengal Board sends proposal to postpone Madhyamik exams to March amid upcoming census exercise
The West Bengal Board of Secondary Education (WBBSE) has proposed to shift the Madhyamik, Class 10 exam 2027 from February to March amid teachers' deployment for the upcoming Census exercise, a top board official said...
Bengal CM calls emergency meeting with BDOs over 125-day rural job scheme after complaints
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has convened an emergency review meeting with block development officers (BDOs) from across the state to assess the progress of the 125-day rural employment scheme, amid complaints of sluggish implementation at the district and panchayat levels. According to state secretariat sources, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) had been receiving several complaints about administrative laxity in implementing the scheme, prompting Adhikari to seek a detailed assessment directly from the officials responsible for its execution at the grassroots level. The meeting will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday at the headquarters of the West Bengal Panchayat Affairs and Rural Development Department in Salt Lake, on the northern outskirts of Kolkata. Besides the Chief Minister, state Panchayat Affairs and Rural Development Minister Dilip Ghosh and Minister of State Santanu Pramanik will also attend the meeting, the sources said. During the meeting, Adhikari is expected to seek block-wise and district-wise details of projects undertaken under the rural employment scheme. He will also seek explanations from BDOs over the slow pace of implementation in certain blocks and the reasons behind the reported administrative shortcomings. The review follows a meeting convened by the Chief Minister last week with departmental secretaries, principal secretaries and additional chief secretaries to assess the implementation of the scheme. The issue of delays and inadequate progress in several blocks had figured prominently during that discussion. Following that meeting, the Chief Minister decided to interact directly with the BDOs to obtain first-hand information about the ground situation. He has also made it clear to the senior bureaucrats heading various departments that any laxity in implementing the rural employment scheme will not be tolerated, a state secretariat insider said. Following the change of government in West Bengal after the Assembly elections earlier this year, the state was brought under the Centre's Viksit BharatGuarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin), or VG-RAM-G scheme. The new arrangement provides for 125 days of guaranteed rural employment annually, compared with the earlier provision of 100 days. The scheme came into effect in the state on July 1, 2026. However, complaints of delays and inadequate implementation have continued to reach the CMO. Despite the new arrangement coming into effect, there have been reports of shortcomings in its execution. The Chief Minister has, therefore, decided to intervene personally and review the progress, the sources added.
Cyclone Murasu delays winter in Bengal, relief expected before Kali Puja
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The indirect impact of Cyclone Murasu has delayed the onset of winter in West Bengal, with temperatures remaining above normal across the state, the meteorological department said on Tuesday. However, weather conditions are expected to improve from Thursday (November 5), with temperatures likely to dip ahead of Kali Puja on November 8, bringing the much-awaited winter chill to the state. According to the weather department, scattered rainfall is likely in several parts of Bengal on Tuesday under the influence of Cyclone Murasu, which made landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast. The cyclone has triggered forecasts of heavy rainfall, with a red alert issued for coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Tamil Nadu. Although Bengal is unlikely to experience any direct impact of the cyclone, its indirect effects are expected to influence weather conditions. The sky will remain partly cloudy across all districts on Tuesday, with isolated spells of light rain. In north Bengal, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Kalimpong, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar may receive light rainfall at one or two places. The remaining three districts of north Bengal are expected to remain dry. In south Bengal, isolated light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is likely in North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Jhargram, Bankura and Purulia. Other districts are likely to experience predominantly dry weather. The meteorological department has forecast mainly dry conditions across the state from Wednesday to Saturday, with the possibility of rainfall gradually diminishing. As cloud cover clears, night temperatures are expected to fall progressively, creating favourable conditions for the arrival of winter around Kali Puja. Meanwhile, Kolkata recorded a maximum temperature of 31.04 degrees Celsius on Monday, marginally above the normal level of 31 degrees. The minimum temperature stood at 25.02 degrees Celsius, which was 2.03 degrees above normal. The relative humidity in the city ranged between 67 and 95 per cent, indicating continued moisture in the atmosphere.
West Bengal board proposes shifting 2027 Madhyamik exams from February to March
The West Bengal Board of Secondary Education has proposed a change in the 2027 Madhyamik examination schedule. They suggest rescheduling the exams from February 15 to 25 to March 2 to 16. This change is due to the deployment of teachers for the upcoming Census exercise. The Census will take place from January 25 to February 28 next year.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 3 (IANS) The Kolkata Police, probing an alleged multi-crore fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to festival tours organised around the UNESCO-tagged celebration, may summon the wife and daughter of arrested former West Bengal Minister Indranil Sen for a second round of questioning. Sens wife, Madhuchhanda Sen, and daughter, Averi Sen, have already been questioned once each at the city police headquarters in Lalbazar, Central Kolkata. However, police sources said their initial statements failed to answer several questions satisfactorily, prompting investigators to consider questioning both again. A police source said, however, the reasons for seeking further clarification from Madhuchhanda and Averi were different. The statements made by the former minister and his wife regarding their respective roles in Mass Art, the entity through which the fake passes were allegedly sold, have been completely contradictory. While the former minister claimed that he had no role in the day-to-day operations of Mass Art, his wife maintained that although the entity was officially registered in her name, she had no decision-making authority and that all major decisions were taken by her husband, the police source said. However, according to the police source, both Sen and his wife have consistently named one individual, Dhurbojyoti Basu, as the person responsible for handling the operational activities of Mass Art. Investigators are now seeking greater clarity on the respective roles played by the former minister, his wife and Basu in the functioning of the entity. This has prompted them to consider another round of questioning of Madhuchhanda Sen to reconcile the contradictory statements and establish who exercised actual control over its operations. The proposed second round of interrogation of Averi Sen, meanwhile, is linked to financial transactions involving two other entities, 'iScape' and 'Mayra', which were reportedly controlled by her. Another city police source said the investigation had revealed frequent transfers of funds to the bank accounts of these two entities. However, during her first round of questioning at Lalbazar on November 2, Averi allegedly failed to provide satisfactory explanations for the transactions or establish the reasons behind the repeated transfer of funds. Investigators are, therefore, seeking further clarification from her regarding the financial transactions and the nature of the two entities' involvement, the source added. A singer-turned-politician, Indranil Sen, had served as West Bengal Tourism Minister and Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs. He is currently in police custody and is scheduled to be produced before a city court again on November 10. Both the Kolkata Police and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are conducting parallel investigations into the alleged multi-crore fake Durga Puja pass scam involving festival tours organised around the UNESCO-tagged celebration. The financial transactions and the alleged roles of individuals associated with Mass Art are among the aspects under scrutiny.
West Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh criticises Mamata Banerjee
The News Mill
Your party formed, headed by foreigner: BJP T'gana chief to Rahul over 'foreign help' remark
Digital Desk | Hyderabad, Nov 3 (IANS) BJP Telangana President Ramchandar Rao on Tuesday hit back at Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, over his social media post alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives foreign financial support and backing. Rao questioned Gandhi's own alleged links with foreign entities and accused him of making baseless allegations against the BJP. Speaking to IANS, Rao said Gandhi should remember that his party was founded by a foreigner and alleged that it is now almost being led by a foreigner. Rahul Gandhi has tweeted on X that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is receiving foreign financial support and backing. He must first remember that his party was formed by a foreigner and is now almost headed by a foreigner, Rao said. He further accused Gandhi of supporting foreign countries, including Bangladesh and Nepal, and alleged that he receives backing from US-based investor George Soros. You take examples from countries like Bangladesh and Nepal and receive support from a foreigner like George Soros. You speak against India during your visits to Europe and America, he said. Rao also accused the Congress leader of questioning India's position on Pakistan following surgical strikes and signing agreements with China. He questioned why Gandhi was accusing the BJP of receiving foreign support while allegedly having foreign backing himself. You speak against India and support foreign countries like Pakistan when surgical strikes take place. You signed a pact with a country like China. You yourself are half foreign. Then why are you alleging that the BJP is receiving foreign support? In fact, you are the one receiving foreign support. Such statements reflect intellectual hollowness, Rao told IANS. Meanwhile, West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh also criticised Gandhi over his remarks, alleging that the Congress leader was attempting to create unrest in the country with the support of foreign money and forces. Creating unrest in the country with foreign money, foreign forces and foreign inspiration, opposing the government and government institutions, and tarnishing the country's image has become Rahul Gandhi's tradition. He is moving in the same direction, Ghosh said. Earlier on Monday, Gandhi had accused Prime Minister Modi of receiving foreign help to become and remain in power. He also alleged that India's financial system was controlled and supported by foreign entities and claimed that foreign social media platforms acked the Prime Minister.
West Bengal CM concerned over five Bankura trekkers missing in Uttarakhand
The News Mill
Health dept deploys emergency teams for Kali Puja
HC: Not for us to dictate how KMC wards will be altered
Crowd-control steps at pujas in Barasat
Kolkatas Pavement Doctor dies at Norfolk home
Judges hearing appeals related to electoral rolls in West Bengal are expected to utilize digital signatures shortly. This change aims to resolve a prolonged standoff that prevented the processing of appeals. Retired Calcutta High Court judge Indrajit Chatterjee has resumed his work on appeals in Murshidabad. The Election Commission of India is considering relocating some tribunals closer to Kolkata.
Arnab-Murasu first double cyclone to hit Bengal-Andhra stretch in less than 7 days
SRFTI students union slams 14 show-cause, 6 rustication notices
Jadavpur University Debars Staffer Amid Sexual Harassment Probe
Senior mechanical engineer Vivek Khare takes charge as new GM of Northeast Frontier Railway
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 2 (IANS) Senior Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineering (IRSME) officer Vivek Khare, a 1989-batch officer, has assumed charge as the new General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), succeeding Chetan Kumar Shrivastava, officials said on Monday. As the General Manager, Khare will serve as the overall executive head of Northeast Frontier Railway, one of the largest and most challenging of the 18 geographical zones of Indian Railways across the country. The NFR spreads over 10 states and 36 Lok Sabha constituencies, including Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Sikkim and seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of North Bihar. NFRs Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said that with over three decades of experience in railway operations, maintenance, efficiency improvement and modernisation spreading over different states and zones of the country, Khares expertise is expected to be immensely beneficial for Northeast Frontier Railway. He handled major infrastructure projects in India and Bangladesh during his deputation to RITES between 2000 and 2005 as Deputy General Manager and Additional General Manager. Before joining as the General Manager of NFR, Khare was posted as the Principal Chief Mechanical Engineer of the Modern Coach Factory, Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh. Earlier, Khare also briefly served in the additional charge as General Manager of the Modern Coach Factory (MCF), Rae Bareli, during March 2026. The new General Manager of NFR is well known for his technical expertise and managerial excellence across multiple domains of Indian Railways. He joined the Indian Railways service on March 3, 1991, in South Central Railway and worked at Secunderabad and Vijayawada. Khare also worked at the Lallaguda Workshop, South Central Railway and Tughlakabad Diesel Shed of Northern Railway. According to NFR CPRO, Khare also played a crucial role in many research initiatives, design standardisation, and technological improvements of important railway systems as the Director at the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) in Lucknow till 2013. His vast experience, technical expertise in quality enhancement and adoption of cutting-edge technologies and visionary leadership are expected to further accelerate the ongoing progress of Northeast Frontier Railway towards fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of railway passengers, freight customers and all stakeholders in the region, CPRO Sharma said.
KMC show-causes LBS for remarks against min, comm, Kartik Maharaj
Green body calls for stricter curbs
Chorbagan fallout: Cops to bar pandal entry if it rains on Kali Puja
Airfares to Kolkata soar on Nov festive demand
Bazi Bazaar tightens safety checks, bars 3 fireworks stalls
Secondary board proposes to defer Madhyamik exam
Assembly canteen worker found dead in washroom
App-cabby gets pals to thrash, rob 2 passengers in Entally
Fire rages overnight, guts offices behind Writers
West Bengal Mandates E-Tendering for 25 Government Departments Starting November 3
West Bengal government announces mandatory e-tendering for 25 departments to enhance transparency and efficiency in project execution. West Bengal Mandates E-Tendering for 25 Government Departments Starting November 3
Nadia District Leads in TB-Free Initiative Under Prime Ministers Campaign
Nadia district in West Bengal achieves top status in TB elimination, with 98 gram panchayats declared TB-free. Nadia District Leads in TB-Free Initiative Under Prime Ministers Campaign
Bengal: Sub-Assistant Engineer arrested on multiple corruption charges
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) West Bengal Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB), on Monday, arrested a Sub-Assistant Engineer (under suspension) of Raghunathpur Municipality in Purulia district, in connection with multiple corruption allegations against him. The arrest was made based on a case registered under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended by the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018 and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. According to an ACB official, the investigation pertains to allegations of corruption, misappropriation of government funds, irregularities in municipal works and suspected irregularities involving government land. During the investigation, substantial documentary evidence, including tender records, an enquiry report submitted by the Sub-Divisional Officer and land and property-related records concerning the accused and his family members, has been collected and is under scrutiny, said the official. The accused had been served notices under Section 35(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, on two occasions to appear before the Investigating Officer but failed to appear. Further investigation and necessary legal formalities are in progress in accordance with law, the official added. Last month, a revenue inspector was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Branch while taking a bribe. He is an employee of the Land and Land Reforms Office in Aushgram of East Burdwan district. He was accused of taking a bribe of Rs 4,000 in the name of issuing an Economically Weaker Section (EWS) certificate. The West Bengal Anti-Corruption Branch conducted the operation and caught him red-handed. The state administration has informed that the number of such operations will increase in the coming days to keep government services transparent and corruption-free for the common man. The West Bengal Anti-Corruption Bureau has given a clear message that any attempt to harass the common man or take bribes in the name of providing government services will not be tolerated. The ACB said such strict steps will increase in the future to maintain transparency.
Bengal: E-tendering mandatory in govt Depts for better transparency
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) The West Bengal government, on Monday, announced mandatory e-tendering in 25 state government departments in an attempt to complete project works on time and in a more transparent manner. Accordingly, in a notification issued by the State Finance Department on Monday, it said that new e-tender portals have been opened for these 25 state government departments where e-tendering will be mandatory henceforth. The new system will be in effect from November 3. As per the notification signed by the Additional Chief Secretary to the State Finance Department, P.K. Mishra, the initiative had been mooted to ensure timely and effective implementation of various schemes and ensure transparency in the tendering system. The state government has launched this new portal so that the work of various government projects can be implemented in a timely and effective manner, the notification read. The notification further stated that henceforth, the departments concerned and all their subordinate branch offices would have to invite all new tenders only through this new portal. The new web portal was launched on a trial basis in December 2025 through a special memorandum of the State Finance Department. Subsequently, on August 12 of this year, the scope of this system was extended step by step based on the application of some specific departments, including the Public Works Department. This time, it has been decided to launch this service in full swing in 25 departments at once. All the necessary information from the old portal is also being quickly transferred to the new system, a state finance department official said. The departments where the e-tendering system had been made mandatory henceforth include the Agriculture & Agricultural Marketing Department, Animal Husbandry Development Department, Cooperatives Department, Backwards Classes Welfare Department, Consumer Protection Department, Disaster Management Department, School Education Department, Higher Education Department, Food & Supplies Department, Information & Cultural Affairs Department, Information Technology Department, Tourism Department, Fire Service Department, Home & Hill Affairs Department, Industries & Commerce Department, Labour Department, Fisheries Department, Food Processing Department, Horticulture Department, Housing Department, Prison Administration Department, Justice Department and Women & Child Welfare Department. The main objective of this step is to speed up the tender process and create a common digital infrastructure across all departments. The new portal will increase transparency in government work and reduce delays to a great extent as it becomes operational. The departments concerned have been instructed to strictly follow the new rules from Tuesday, said the state finance department official.
West Bengal Christians hurt by mob violence narrate their ordeals before peoples tribunal
Christian women say mobs vandalised prayers meetings in their homes and physically assaulted them, accusing them of religious conversion; most perpetrators not arrested, police attitude has changed under BJP rule, survivors say
Bengal: Nadia tops among districts in tuberculosis eradication campaign program
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) Nadia has topped among the districts in West Bengal in the tuberculosis eradication campaign programme under the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. According to the statistics provided by the Nadia district administration, out of the total 185 village panchayats in the district, not a single case of tuberculosis has been reported in 15 village panchayats in the last three years, which is considered as Gold Standard as per the national programme on tuberculosis eradication. Similarly, in 33 village panchayats in Nadia district, not a single case of tuberculosis has been reported in the last two years, which is considered as Silver Standard as per the same national programme. At the same time, in 50 village panchayats in Nadia district, not a single case of tuberculosis has been reported in the last year, which is considered Bronze Standard as per the national programme. This means that currently a total of 98 of 185 village panchayats in Nadia district are tuberculosis-free. According to Nadias district magistrate, Dr Srikanth Palli, this success has come as a result of continuous initiatives in tuberculosis detection, regular treatment, surveillance and awareness raising. About 20 years ago, the number of tuberculosis patients in Nadia district was around 30 times higher than the current number. The situation has totally changed now for the better, he added. According to him, tuberculosis needs long-term treatment and, depending on the severity of the disease, the treatment period can be as long as six and 18 months. However, it was noticed earlier that after the beginning of the medication process, often people stopped taking medicines midway after getting the initial relief from the cough and decline in infection level. This tendency used to increase the risk of drug-resistant tuberculosis, where treatment became even more difficult, he added. Therefore, he added, in the last few years the emphasis was especially given to ensuring that the patients go through the entire medication process, continuing the medicine for the full period as per the doctors advice. Currently, around 350 volunteers are involved in Nadia district alone as 'Nikshay Mitra'. They are responsible for helping the affected people with treatment and nutrition, Palli added.
Malda Land Clash: One Dead, SSB Jawan Hurt
A land dispute in Malda, West Bengal, resulted in one death and injuries to three others, including a Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) jawan. The clash occurred on Sunday afternoon when SSB personnel attempted to cultivate a disputed plot. Police have detained 13 people and are investigating the incident.
After Mamata-free Bengal, time now for Rahul-free Delhi: Nitin Nabin
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 2 (IANS) BJP national president Nitin Nabin on Monday led the party's 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' march in Kolkata and simultaneously targeted former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. The procession, which started from College Street with Nitin Nabin, state Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and state BJP president Samik Bhattacharya, concluded in the Esplanade area in central Kolkata. While addressing the public at the end of the march, Nitin Nabin said, West Bengal is already completely free from Mamata. Unable to cope with the shock of defeat in his own state, the former Chief Minister is now crying in Delhi. Now Delhi too needs to be freed from Rahul quickly. The BJP launched a counter-offensive against the Opposition's protests over the Election Commissions Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. On Sunday, the INDIA Bloc held a 'Save the Vote, Save the Country' programme at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Slamming the Opposition for organising the protest, Nitin Nabin said, People of the INDIA Bloc, who were defeated in their respective states, had gathered in Delhi to cry. The manner in which TMC was wiped out in Bengal, Congress and AAP were wiped out in Delhi. In Bihar too, RJD was completely wiped out. Now, it is Uttar Pradesh's turn; we had defeated Akhilesh Yadav earlier too, and we will defeat him in 2027 too. Such people with anarchist mindsets are led by Rahul Gandhi. Attacking the Congress further, the BJP national president said the grand old party never learns from its mistakes. Instead of learning from his mistakes, Rahul Gandhi is acting as the tool kit of foreign forces. When I say this word, I say this because when there was unrest in Bangladesh, he was sympathetic towards the elements who were causing the unrest. When elements try to cause unrest in Nepal, he expresses sympathy to them. Rahul Gandhi and Congress are sympathetic towards all such elements. The BJP Rajya Sabha leader further said, ''Even today, I tell Rahul Gandhi Ji: learn from your shortcomings, or else in the coming days, there will be no one left in the country even to take Congress's name; this is the situation that will arise for you. You talk about democracy? I ask the workers of Congress: is there any democracy left in your own party? You invoke the Constitution, which Constitution? The Constitution that runs according to the Nehru-Gandhi family? Nabin also hailed the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking the country forward on several fronts. When it comes to national security, he stands as a Chowkidar (watchman); during a crisis like COVID-19, he stands as the Pradhan Sevak (Chief Servant) of the nation; this is Narendra Modi's leadership. Today, you are trying to spread anarchy across the country and harm constitutional institutions. When the public rejected you, had you fought for the people's causes, they wouldn't have turned their backs on you. The BJP leader added, And we can say that today, if more than 25 crore poor families have risen above the poverty line, it is a victory of trust in Narendra Modi's development. It is a victory of Narendra Modi's welfare schemes. Now they ask how this transformed into results. Instead of removing poverty, you removed the poor. But Narendra Modi Ji removed poverty and brought people out of the poverty line. That is why we won the election in 2019, and that is why we won in 2024, and we will win again in 2029. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari compared the Trinamool Congress and the Opposition by presenting his own political interpretation of the SIR process. He said, Whatever SIR means to the opposition, for us the real meaning of SIR is - remove the infiltrators, save India. Strongly attacking the opposition camp, the Chief Minister further said, Let me remind those who have come together today to save themselves from corruption and jail terms, to maintain the dynasty and to bring back the politics of appeasement - in the 2026 elections, the people of West Bengal elected the Bharatiya Janata Party by giving 2 crore 92 lakh votes. That is why they want to create anarchy in Bengal today.''
J&K: Indian Army kickstarts eight-week free coaching program for Sainik School exams in Doda
Digital Desk | Jammu, Nov 2 (IANS) The Indian Army has launched an eight-week free coaching programme to help underprivileged students prepare for the Sainik School entrance Exam in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. The free programme, kick-starting on Monday, was inaugurated by Commander 9 Sector RR, Brigadier Vikrant Shinde, in the presence of students and their parents, at the Battalion headquarters of Assam Rifles in Thaleela village of Doda. The students were selected and shortlisted after qualifying an examination at their respective schools. They also expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for supporting them in achieving their dreams. The Commander, 9-Sector RR Brigadier Vikrant Shinde, said that 60 meritorious students drawn from different schools of Doda district who qualified for the program will get the specialised coaching from teachers who have been especially called from West Bengal. The much-needed coaching programme is aimed at bridging educational gaps and offering equal opportunities for students in far-flung and remote regions to crack the All India Sainik School Entrance Exam, Said Brig Vikrant Shinde. Brigadier Vikrant Shinde also distributed free study material among all the students who have qualified for the coaching programme. Speaking about the initiative, Brigadier Vikrant Shinde told IANS, I strongly believe that the difference between us as human beings is not in our abilities, but in the opportunities we receive. The kind of opportunities a person gets in life is very important. He further thanked the students and their guardians for deciding to participate in this initiative. The students also expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for providing them with this platform and opportunity, stating that every child dreams of studying at a Sainik School.
When Union Ministers from Bengal step from politics to the theatre stage
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar taking time off to step under the arc lights on stage has generated interest because while politicians are known to have dabbled in acting in West Bengal a state recognised for cultural activities there have not been many who could follow their hearts while being in a similar position that demands absolute involvement. Yet, for Bengal, the achievement is not without precedent. More than two decades ago, another Bengali minister at the Centre, Ajit Panja (1936-2008), became famous for the portrayal of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa in productions of Nati Binodini. Majumdar took to the stage on Sunday, donning the role of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in a theatrical production, 'Keshari Hatya', depicting the life and death of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS). He also appeared in the same play as the narrator. The Minister told the media that he was offered the role, and as every Bengali has a latent desire to act, he accepted it. Though I cant recollect any other Union Minister from West Bengal having acted in a play apart from Ajitda and Sukantababu, I do remember Subrata Mukherjee and lately, Bratya Basu, having enacted roles on stage as well as in cinema, said Saumya Bandopadhya, a senior journalist who has covered the state for almost a half-century. Subrata Mukherjee (1946-2021) was a veteran West Bengal politician who was a senior leader of the Congress party and later, the Trinamool. He served as a cabinet minister in the West Bengal government and was widely regarded as an influential organiser and administrator, with a political career spanning more than five decades. He also served as the Mayor of Kolkata and played an important role in Bengal politics for many years. The 57-year-old Bratya Basu has served as a Minister in the Mamata Banerjee-led cabinet in West Bengal. However, neither Mukherjee nor Basu were Union Ministers, and their acting skills were well known earlier. Echoing Bandopadhya, another senior journalist from West Bengal, Gautam Hor, added that it is the passion for the stage that draws people from other professions onto amateur acting. Anybody who loves theatre can participate on stage, but it is the time constraint for someone who holds a ministers job that makes such an attempt stand out. Such a foray requires time, especially for rehearsals, he said. According to Majumdar, rehearsals were conducted even as he attended to his official engagements, participating whenever he could afford the time. That, indeed, is a tough task. It is perhaps Bengali has a latent desire to act that the Minister stated that made the task possible for him. Panja, a senior Congress leader who later joined the Trinamool Congress and served in several Union ministries, was also a passionate theatre actor. He earned widespread recognition with his enactment of Sri Ramakrishna, and has even held a show at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Contemporary accounts describe how then-Prime Minister Vajpayee was among those who watched the production during one of its stagings, and former Chief Minister of West Bengal, Jyoti Basu, had attended a performance and praised Panja's acting. The tradition resurfaced with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sukanta Majumdar performing at Kolkata's Rabindra Sadan. Hopefully, the curtain will never fall as Bengal continues to follow the passion.
Mamata's name at Nandan painted over ahead Of film fest
A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after a plaque bearing former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's name at Kolkata's Nandan cultural hub was painted over, while one for Jyoti Basu remained untouched. This incident, occurring just before the Kolkata International Film Festival, has led to a war of words between the BJP and the Trinamool Congress, with actor Mithun Chakraborty questioning the relevance of Banerjee's name.
No one will be able to destroy democracy: BJP's Rahul Sinha targets Mamata Banerjee
Hitting out at former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Rahul Sinha on Monday asserted that party workers would thwart every attempt to weaken democratic institutions in the state, declaring that 'no one would be able to destroy democracy' as long as BJP workers continued to stand united. Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of the party's 'Save Democracy' march in Kolkata, Sinha responded to allegations raised by Banerjee regarding electoral outcomes and claimed that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo had lost touch with the ground reality. The message is that as long as even a single Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) worker remains, no one will be able to destroy democracy. Every BJP worker will work to thwart the conspiracy that these people are hatching to destroy democracy, Sinha said. Taking a direct swipe at Banerjee over her remarks blaming electoral losses on vote manipulation, Sinha said that the people of West Bengal had rejected the Trin...
BJP MP Rahul Sinha vows to protect democracy in West Bengal tensions
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Retired Revenue Officer Arrested in Connection with Fugitive Stone Quarry Owner in West Bengal
A retired revenue officer has been arrested in West Bengal for alleged ties to fugitive stone quarry owner Tulu Mandal amid ongoing investigations. Retired Revenue Officer Arrested in Connection with Fugitive Stone Quarry Owner in West Bengal
Daughter Of Former Minister Questioned In Puja Scam
Kolkata Police have summoned Avery Sen, daughter of former West Bengal minister Indranil Sen, for questioning in connection with the Durga Puja preview pass scam and the alleged unauthorised use of the UNESCO name and logo. This follows the arrest of Indranil Sen and the questioning of his wife, Madhuchhanda Sen, as investigators trace financial transactions linked to the case.
Mamata Banerjee's nameplate was removed from the main hall of Kolkata's cultural centre Nandan and painted over. This action occurred before the annual Kolkata International Film Festival, while Jyoti Basu's plaque remains intact. Banerjee participated in a mega rally in Delhi addressing alleged electoral irregularities and the Special Intensive Revision exercise. She accused the BJP of looting West Bengal and emphasized the need to protect democracy.
Body of Cantine Worker Found in West Bengal Assembly Toilet, Investigation Underway
A cantine workers body was discovered in a West Bengal Assembly toilet, prompting an investigation into the circumstances of his death. Body of Cantine Worker Found in West Bengal Assembly Toilet, Investigation Underway
Cyclone Murasu to bring light to moderate rain to parts of West Bengal
Cyclone Murasu is expected to bring scattered light to moderate rain to Kolkata, Midnapore and South 24 Parganas over the next two days. The storm is forecast to make landfall in south Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday, while temperatures in West Bengal may dip from November 5
Why Sikkim is the only Indian state without a railway station, and when it will finally get one
