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BJP Minority Morcha National President Jamal Siddiqui condemned the lynching of a Hindu youth in Bangladesh, blaming rising radicalisation and alleging growing attacks on minorities. He criticised the Bangladeshi governments response, and said India was closely monitoring the situation. Siddiqui also accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of encouraging radicalisation for political gain, claiming the state risked following a similar path.
2-0 in 2025 elections, can opposition bounce back in 2026?
Following BJP's 2025 victories in Delhi and Bihar, 2026 presents a crucial comeback opportunity for the opposition. Key contests in West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Puducherry will test incumbent governments and emerging political forces, with updated electoral rolls adding another layer of intrigue to these significant state elections.
Congress settled illegal Bangladeshi migrants to strengthen vote-bank, claims PM Modi in Assam
GUWAHATI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday attacked the Congress on the issue of illegal Bangladeshi migrants, accusing the party of settling and protecting them, while asserting that the BJP-led double-engine government was correcting decades of neglect and policy failures in Assam. Addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone for a Rs 10,601 crore brownfield ammonia-urea plant in Assams Dibrugarh, Modi further accused the Congress of promoting what he termed an anti-India agenda and remaining indifferent to the identity and aspirations of the Assamese people. The Congress has no concern for the identity of Assam and its people. They are interested only in power and doing things they did before, Modi said. Thats why, they like illegal Bangladeshi migrants more. The Congress had settled them and are saving them. This is the reason why the Congress is opposing the ongoing exercise to correct voters list, the Prime Minister added. Even now the Congress wants to settle Bangladeshis on Assams lands and forests to consolidate its vote bank. You get destroyed (in the process) but they are not bothered. They have to strengthen their vote-bank, Modi told the crowd. Stating that Assam has to be protected from the poison of appeasement and vote-bank politics, the Prime Minister assured the people that the BJP was standing firmly with them to protect the states identity and honour. The BJP prioritises every work that enhances Assams prestige. But when it does that, the Congress gets troubled the most. When our government conferred Bharat Ratna on Bhupen da (legendary singer-songwriter Bhupen Hazarika), the Congress had openly opposed it, Modi said, continuing his attack on the opposition party. He further stated that the Congress had once again opposed development when the BJP-led government established a semiconductor unit in Assam. Despite being in power for many decades, the Congress had denied land right to Assams tea garden community. The BJP government has given them land right as well as a dignified life. I am a chaiwalla; if I dont do it, who will? the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister also accused the Congress of neglecting industrial infrastructure in the state, particularly fertiliser units, leading to repeated shutdowns and hardship for farmers and workers. Just think, why is work for the welfare of farmers only happening after the BJP government came to power? The technology in the old factories became outdated, and the Congress governments paid no attention to it. Many units of Namrup kept shutting down because of this, Modi said. He added that previous governments never attempted to resolve these long-standing issues. Congress never found a solution to this problem. They were nonchalant. Our double-engine government is solving those problems too that were created by the Congress, he said. Highlighting reforms in the fertiliser sector, Modi said urea production in the country had increased significantly over the last decade. They did such a terrible job that even after 11 years of hard work, I still have a lot of work left to do. In 2014, only 225 lakh metric tonne of urea was produced nationwide. After the hard work of the last 10-11 years, this production has risen to around 306 lakh metric tonne, he said. Calling the fertiliser project a major milestone, Modi described the day as historic for Assam and the Northeast. Today is a big day for Assam and the entire North-East. The dream that Namrup and Dibrugarh had been waiting for a long time is being fulfilled today. A new chapter of industrial progress is about to begin in this whole area. Before coming to Dibrugarh, a new terminal of the airport was inaugurated in Guwahati. Everyone is saying that Assam has caught on to a new pace of development. What you are experiencing right now is just the beginning, he said. The brownfield Ammonia-Urea Fertiliser Project at Namrup, within the premises of Brahmaputra Valley Fertiliser Corporation Limited (BVFCL), is expected to meet fertiliser requirements of Assam and neighbouring states, reduce import dependence, generate substantial employment and spur regional economic development. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said BVFCL, the oldest fertiliser unit in Northeast India, would undergo major expansion. To further increase its capacity, a fourth plant is set to be established at the Namrup site. Supported by the Government of India, the new plant is expected to be completed in the next five years, with a production capacity of 12.5 lakh metric tonnes per annum, Sonowal said. He added that the expansion would transform the facility into a major production hub for the Northeast and enable exports to neighbouring countries such as Bhutan and Myanmar, besides supplying West Bengal and Bihar. Meanwhile, the Assam Valley Fertiliser and Chemical Company Ltd will have an annual urea production capacity of 12.7 lakh metric tonnes, with the project scheduled for commissioning in 2030. Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister visited the Swahid Smarak Kshetra in Paschim Boragaon, Guwahati, and paid homage to the martyrs of the Assam Movement. (WIth inputs from PTI, ANI)
Bengal SIR: ECI to seek explanations from BLOs on doubtful cases in draft voters list
Kolkata: The Election Commission of India (ECI) will take written explanations from the booth-level officers (BLOs) engaged in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal on the doubtful cases in the draft voters list, which was published on December 16. Insiders from the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, said 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 .
As PM Modi's chopper fails to land, TMC says BJP's push hits turbulence in West Bengal
Trinamool Congress mocked Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aborted visit to Nadia, claiming the BJP's 2026 election campaign in West Bengal was halted by bad weather. TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh stated Modi's speech disappointed the Matua community, who are living in fear and uncertainty following electoral roll revisions, and offered no roadmap or solutions.
Mamata wants to incite communal riots: BJP
New Delhi: The BJP on Saturday alleged that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee wanted to incite riots between the Hindu and Muslim communities and accused her of indulging in communal politics, sensing defeat of the ruling TMC in the state assembly polls next year. Questioning Banerjees silence over the alleged remarks made by her Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
PM Modi slams maha jungle raj in West Bengal, seeks BJP vote
Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lashed out at the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, calling the states prevailing situation maha jungle raj and alleging that corruption, nepotism and appeasement of the ruling dispensation have prevented development in the state. Addressing a massive gathering at Taherpur in Nadia district over the phone from Kolkata, 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 .
Two from West Bengal held with 37 kg of suspected ganja
They had allegedly trafficked the suspected narcotic item from Odisha to Aluva by train
Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Festival was a melange of cultures and artistes
Hyderabad: Picture actors from Norway and Malaysia mingling with performers from Assam, Maharashtra and Kerala. Add playwrights from France and Telangana, musicians from West Bengal and Karnataka, all converging on a single platform in Hyderabad. That was the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Festival. Now in its 20th year, Telanganas annual theatre festival continues to captivate 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 .
PM Modi's Bengal Address Decoded: Energising Cadre, Countering Mamata Banerjee
For the upcoming election in West Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains the strongest brand equity for the state BJP in countering Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her party, Trinamool Congress.
PM Modi's silence on voter deletions during West Bengal rally irks Matuas
KOLKATA: As the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal puts thousands of Matua community members at a risk of losing Indian citizenship, Prime Minister Modi's silence during his rally in West Bengal has sparked sharp criticism from the ruling Trinamool Congress. While addressing the crowd at the Taherpur rally, a Matua-dominated region of the state, the PM started his audio message from Kolkata airport saying Jai Netai, and remembered the roles of social reformers such as Harichand Thakur, Guruchand Thakur and Baroma. However, the PM did not address a major issue plaguing the Matua community as thousands of names were deleted from the voters lists following the 2025 SIR process. Jai Netai is a devotional slogan used to venerate Nityananda Prabhu, a primary figure in Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition, which is closely associated with the Matua Mahasangha, a significant social and religious reform movement in Bengal. Matuas attending the rally were expecting the PM to address the mass name deletions. Many were excluded from the 2025 draft rolls due to their absence from the 2002 electoral rolls. A majority of the Matuas who had migrated from Bangladesh are Hindus. Aggrieved Matuas staged demonstrations on Saturday in different parts of Ranaghat parliamentary area, a politically significant belt for BJP, demanding that their citizenship be secured. The agitators shouted slogans such as Go Back Modi. The PM could not attend reach the rally site as dense fog had prevented his helicopter from landing at the makeshift helipad in Taherpur this morning. BJP sources said, We had a phenomenal rise in since 2019 Lok Sabha elections in North 24 Parganas, Nadia and parts of Jalpaiguri because Matuas voted for us. But a large section of Matuas anxious about the SIR outcome that deleted thousands of voters belonging to the community. Modiji didnt say anything about their crisis during the rally, and it is upsetting for Matuas, the sources added. TMC Rajya Sabha MP Mamatabala Thakur, belonging to the Matua community, said, BJP has been giving false promises to the community for a long time, but our Prime Minister has nothing more to give them. Instead, he has taken away their voting rights what they used to enjoy in elections. BJP has got Matua votes by giving them false promises. Out of 17 Matua-dominated assembly constituencies in Nadia and North 24 Parganas district, BJP had won all the seats in 2021 assembly polls. The saffron party had also won Ranaghat and Bongaon Lok Sabha seats in Matua belts in 2024 elections. Interestingly, around 85,000 Matua voters names in Bongaon sub-division have been deleted from the electoral rolls following the SIR. Since the SIR kick-started in Bengal, the BJP has asked Matuas not to worry and has launched a massive drive to facilitate citizenship for eligible members of the community.
West Bengal Was Shamed Courtesy TMC: PM Modi Targets Mamata Banerjee Govt Over Messi Event
The controversy surrounding Lionel Messis visit to Kolkata escalated after high-profile event at Salt Lake Stadium ended in chaos, triggering public anger and political fallout.
Messi left Kolkata stadium as he was 'unhappy with being touched, hugged': Chief organiser tells SIT
Satadru Dutta, the arrested main organiser of the Kolkata event featuring football giant Lionel Messi, has told a Special Investigation Team (SIT) that the Argentine legend left the Salt Lake Stadium within minutes of his appearance on December 13 --resulting in chaos-- as he was unhappy with being touched or hugged, reported PTI. According to the report citing sources from the SIT, Dutta also disclosed that the much-awaited event ended in chaos and violence after a very influential person reached the stadium and increased the number of ground passes issued by three times. The organiser also claimed that after the influential person entered the stadium, the entire flowchart of the event got disturbed and he was unable to control it. During his interrogation on Friday, Dutta told the investigators that Messi did not like being touched on the back or being hugged and that the concern had been conveyed in advance by the foreign security officials responsible for the footballer's protection. Despite repeated public announcements to restrain the crowd, there was no impact. The manner in which Messi was surrounded and embraced was completely unacceptable to the World Cup-winning footballer, Dutta told investigators, according to sources. Dutta claimed that initially only 150 ground passes were issued, which, however, was tripled when a very influential person reached the stadium and overpowered him. The arrested accused also claimed that once that particular influential person reached the stadium, all the flow-chart for the Messi programme got disturbed and he could not control it, an official was quoted as saying by PTI. Police are examining whether the expanded access directly contributed to the breakdown of crowd control. They are also probing how such a large number of people gained access to the ground area. West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas was seen in close proximity to Messi throughout the programme, with visuals showing him holding the footballer around the waist while posing for photographs. Biswas has been accused of using his influence to allow relatives and personal acquaintances access to Messi. Amid mounting criticism , he resigned from his post as sports minister pending completion of the investigation. Dutta also disclosed financial details related to Messi's India visit. Lionel Messi was paid Rs 89 crore for the tour, while Rs 11 crore was paid as tax to the Indian government, he told investigators, placing the total expenditure at Rs 100 crore. Of this amount, 30 per cent was sourced from sponsors, while another 30 per cent was generated through ticket sales, sources said. Meanwhile, an amount of over Rs 20 crore was found in the frozen bank accounts of Dutta by the officers of the SIT, the officer said. On Friday, following the raids at Dutta's house, sleuths of the SIT seized several documents, he added. Dutta claimed that the amount in his bank account was the money which he got from selling the tickets for the Messi event in Kolkata and Hyderabad and also from the sponsors. We are verifying his claims, the officer said. Thousands of spectators had purchased high-priced tickets to attend the event at Salt Lake Stadium, but the programme descended into chaos as a large number of people crowded around Messi on the field, making him barely visible from the galleries and triggering anger among fans, some of whom later vandalised parts of the stadium. The West Bengal government had set up the Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising senior IPS officers Piyush Pandey, Javed Shamim, Supratim Sarkar and Muralidhar to investigate the vandalism at Argentine football star Lionel Messi's event at the Salt Lake stadium. The SIT is also investigating security lapses, access violations, and the role of organisers and officials in the incident, the officer added. (With inputs from PTI) 'We travelled all the way...': Heartbreak for fans as organisers mess up Messi event in Kolkata
PM Modi attacks 'Maha Jungle Raj' in Bengal, pitches for BJP ahead of 2026 polls
KOLKATA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday criticised what he called the 'Maha Jungle Raj' under Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and appealed to the voters to support the BJP in next year's assembly elections to bring a 'double engine' government to the state. Modi addressed a rally virtually in Taherpur, Nadia district, after dense fog caused by low visibility prevented his helicopter from landing there. The Prime Minister was scheduled to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of two National Highway projects worth around Rs 3,200 crores and inaugurate 66.7 km long 4-Laning of Barajaguli Krishnanagar Section of NH-34 in the Nadia District of West Bengal. Modi pointed to the NDA's success in the recent Bihar elections, suggesting that the momentum could spill over into neighbouring West Bengal. People voted for NDA. I had said the Ganga flows from Bihar to Bengal, and Bihar has shown the path to victory in Bengal and a way out of jungle Raj, he said. Modi further said Bengal is currently reeling under corruption, nepotism and appeasement politics. Modi also said that the ruling party in Bengal is opposed to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. You (Trinamool Congress) shout 'go back' slogans against the infiltrators not against me, he said as a section of Matuas shouted slogans like go back Modi at Taherpur. The Matuas were agitating because names of thousands of voters belonging to community have been deleted from the electoral rolls during the SIR process. Claiming that the popular sentiment of Bengals grassroots people was to gain freedom from TMCs misrule, the Prime Minister said, the lanes and alleys of the state are resonating with cries of the slogan Banchte chai, BJP tai (Need BJP to live). Three run over by train Three persons died and three others were injured when they were hit by a train amid dense fog on Saturday. They were travelling to attend Modi's rally at Taherpur, a senior official said. The incident occurred between Taherpur and Badkulla railway stations under the Sealdah-Krishnanagar section of Eastern Railway, he said. Earlier in the day, the PM reached Kolkata at around 10.40 am and took a chopper onward to Taherpur in Nadia district, where he was scheduled to hold an administrative programme to launch highway projects in West Bengal, followed by a political rally of the BJP, titled Parivartan Sankalpa Sabha, which he was supposed to address. The PMs speech today was frustrating to Matua people because he could not give any positive message for the community who are spending days with tension and panic because of the SIR, Trinamool Congress spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said. He could not even say anything about releasing funds allotted for different schemes in Bengal, Kunal added.
On way to PM's rally, 3 mowed down by train in West Bengal amid dense fog
The incident occurred between Taherpur and Badkulla railway stations under the Sealdah-Krishnanagar section of Eastern Railway
PM Modi's speech at Bengal rally lacks concerns about Matuas' citizenship, alleges TMC
Trinamool Congress criticizes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's rally speech. They allege he showed no concern for the Matua community's electoral roll issues. The party also claims Modi ignored harassment of Bengali speakers in BJP-ruled states. Modi, speaking by phone, called West Bengal a 'maha jungle raj' and urged support for BJP in 2026.
Will end 'maha jungle raj' in Bengal; TMC making people suffer to oppose BJP: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticized the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, labeling the state's situation as maha jungle raj. He alleged that corruption, nepotism, and appeasement have stalled development. Addressing a rally via phone, Modi urged voters to elect the BJP for a double engine government, promising to end the ruling party's alleged misrule and protect citizens.
Will End Maha Jungle Raj In Bengal; TMC Making People Suffer To Oppose BJP: PM
KOLKATA, Dec 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lashed out at the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, calling the states prevailing situation maha jungle raj and alleging that corruption, nepotism and appeasement of the ruling dispensation have prevented development in the state. Addressing a massive gathering at Taherpur in Nadia district over the phone from Kolkata, Modi urged the people to provide a chance to the BJP in the upcoming assembly polls to form a double engine government in [] The post Will End Maha Jungle Raj In Bengal; TMC Making People Suffer To Oppose BJP: PM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Four killed, 2 injured after being hit by train on way to attend PM Modi`s rally
Four people were killed and two others injured after being hit by a train near Taherpur station in West Bengals Nadia district while travelling to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modis rally
PM Modi unveils key connectivity initiatives, takes a hit at opposition in poll-bound West Bengal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two national highway projects worth Rs. 3,200 crore in West Bengal's Nadia district, enhancing connectivity between Kolkata and Siliguri and reducing travel time. His visit also served as a prelude to the upcoming assembly polls, where he criticized the TMC's governance and urged voters to support the BJP.
Modi targets TMC over infiltration, says Bihar results 'opened doors' for BJP victory in Bengal
Results from the recently-concluded Bihar assembly elections have opened up doors for the BJPs victory in West Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, addressing a rally in Taherpur virtually after dense fog prevented his helicopter from landing at the venue. Owing to low visibility, the prime ministers helicopter made a U-turn after hovering briefly over the makeshift helipad in Taherpur and returned to Kolkata airport, officials said. This was Modis first visit to the state since the draft SIR rolls were published and his third in the past five months. The trip comes amid heightened political tensions over the ongoing SIR exercise, during which he was scheduled to inaugurate national highway projects and address a public rally. Today the country wants rapid development. Bihar once again gave the NDA government a massive mandate for development...Bihar has also paved the way for the BJP's victory in Bengal, Modi said. Drawing parallels with his jungle raj claims against the RJD in Bihar, PM Modi took aim at the Trinamool Congress (TMC), saying the BJP would end its Maha jungle raj in West Bengal. Bihar has rejected the rule of the 'jungle raj' with one resounding voice. Even after 20 years, they have given the BJP-NDA more seats than before.... We will end TMC's 'Maha jungle raj' in Bengal, where corruption, nepotism, appeasement politics are ruling the roost, he said. Let TMC oppose me and BJP as much as it wants, but Bengals progress should not be stopped, the priminister added. Modi also alleged that infiltrators enjoyed the TMCs patronage in the state and claimed the party was opposing the SIR exercise to prevent them from being identified.
PM Modi arrived in Kolkata at 10:40 am and departed for Nadia. However, due to dense fog, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter was unable to land at the Taherpur helipad in West Bengal.
PM Modis Chopper Turns Back To Kolkata After Fog Prevents Landing In Bengal's Taherpur
PM Modi was set to lay the foundation stone and inaugurate national highway projects at Ranaghat in West Bengal's Nadia district.
PM Modi's Chopper Fails To Land In Bengal Town Due To Fog, Returns To Kolkata
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to West Bengal's Nadia has been delayed due to dense fog. His helicopter returned to Kolkata airport after failing to land at the Taherpur helipad due to low visibility this afternoon.
Low Visibility Prevents PMs Helicopter From Landing In Taherpur, Modi Returns To Kolkata Airport
KOLKATA, Dec 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modis helicopter failed to land at the Taherpur helipad in West Bengal owing to low visibility on account of dense fog in the area on Saturday, an official said. The PMs chopper made a U-turn after hovering over the helipad ground for a while and returned to the Kolkata airport, he said. Till reports last received, the Prime Minister was waiting at the airport for further updates on the weather situation. It wasnt immediately [] The post Low Visibility Prevents PMs Helicopter From Landing In Taherpur, Modi Returns To Kolkata Airport appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
PM Modi returns to Kolkata airport after low visibility prevents helicopter landing in Taherpur
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's helicopter could not land at Taherpur in West Bengal on Saturday. Dense fog caused low visibility. The helicopter returned to Kolkata airport. The Prime Minister was waiting for weather updates. It is unclear if he will travel by road or attempt an aerial route later. He was scheduled for an administrative program and a BJP rally.
PM Modi's helicopter fails to land in West Bengal's Taherpur; returns safely to Kolkata
SIR document verification hearings spark anxiety among Matuas in Bengal
The Matua community in West Bengal is anxious over verification hearings under the SIR, fearing loss of voting rights and uncertainty over their future. Concerns are strongest in Matua-dominated areas of Nadia and North 24 Parganas districts, where lakhs of voters have been listed as unmapped in the draft electoral rolls and will be called for hearings by the Election Commission.
PM Modi to address first rally in West Bengal since draft roll release amid SIR concerns of Matuas
KOLKATA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit West Bengal's Nadia district on Saturday, where he will inaugurate national highway projects and address a public rally, amid heightened political tensions over the ongoing SIR exercise in the state. This would be Modi's first visit to the state since the draft SIR rolls were published, and the third in the past five months. The Prime Minister, political observers said, is scheduled to address the growing unease amongst the Matua community members post the publication of the draft rolls from his strategically located BJP rally venue in Taherpur area of Ranaghat, not far from the heartland of the Namasudra Hindu community in adjacent Bongaon. In the process, Modi is likely to sound the BJP's bugle for the assembly polls, which are due in the state early next year and finalise the roadmap for the party's big push for the crucial elections. The people of West Bengal are benefiting from numerous pro-people initiatives of the central government. At the same time, they are suffering due to the TMC's misgovernance in every sector, PM posted on X on Friday evening while announcing his visit. The loot and intimidation of the TMC have crossed all limits. That is why, BJP is the people's hope, he added. The PM's visit comes at a time when the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress has mounted sustained opposition to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging that the exercise is being carried out in haste and that a large number of genuine voters, particularly refugee Hindus, risk disenfranchisement on its account. In the draft electoral rolls published after the enumeration phase, 58,20,899 names have been excluded, reducing the electorate to 7.08 crore. Around 1.36 crore entries have also been flagged for logical discrepancies, while 30 lakh voters have been categorised as unmapped a significant percentage of whom are likely to be called for verification hearings over the next 45 days. For Matuas, a Dalit Hindu community that migrated from Bangladesh over decades due to religious persecution, this exercise has revived anxieties over identity and documentation. Political observers widely believe that the community members hold sway in as many as 80 of the 294 assembly seats in the state. Speculations are rife that significant numbers of Matuas have already been excluded from draft rolls. Many more are likely to follow suit in the final rolls on account of the unavailability of the EC-specified indicative documents they need to produce in the eventuality of receiving hearing notices during the verification phase. Over the past years, poll results have indicated that the BJP gained significant inroads within the community, promising them formal Indian citizenship. BJP MP Jagannath Sarkar, who represents the Ranaghat Lok Sabha seat, where Taherpur is located, claimed that fear was being spread deliberately among the Matuas about SIR. We are hopeful that the PM's message would dispel those fears and canards, he said. Chief Minister Banerjee has already led anti-SIR rallies in Nadia and North 24 Parganas, the two adjoining districts that share a border with Bangladesh and have a significant Matua presence. During his visit, the PM will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for two national highway projects worth around Rs 3,200 crore. He will inaugurate the 66.7-km-long four-laning of the Barajaguli-Krishnanagar section of NH-34 in Nadia district and lay the foundation stone for the four-laning of the 17.6-km-long Barasat Barajaguli section in North 24 Parganas district. The projects are expected to serve as a vital connecting link between Kolkata and Siliguri, boosting trade, tourism and economic activity across southern and northern parts of the state, officials said.
PM to address 1st rally in Bengal on Saturday after draft roll release
Kolkata: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit West Bengals Nadia district on Saturday, where he will inaugurate national highway projects and address a public rally, amid heightened political tensions over the ongoing SIR exercise in the state. This would be Modis first visit to the state since the draft SIR rolls were published, 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 .
Even before the crack of dawn, Chennaiites wake up to the musical notes of birds, the winter wind so chilly that it demands a woolen armour to brave the streets that stir to life as the day progresses. Men, women, and children gather to sweep their respective thresholds and sprinkle water as a ritual and then create pattern of curves, grids, dots, lines, and loops. This art form kolam holds a special significance during the Tamil month of Margazhi , which falls in December. Traditionally, kolam is believed to symbolise prosperity, good luck, and welcome goddess Lakshmi into homes. It is also said that kolam wards off evil energies and spirits. Kolams are practised differently in different parts of the country: Pookalam in Kerala, Muggulu in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Alpana in West Bengal, Rangoli in Karnataka, and Sathiya in Gujarat. Mention of this practice in Tamil lit can be traced back to Sangam literature, dating from the third century BCE to third century CE. In this literature, the description of drawing kolam s exactly matches the visuals seen on the streets of Chennai today. This shows how age-old the practice of kolam is, shares historian Meenakshi Devaraj. The 15th verse of the second chapter, 518th verse overall, in revered poet and saint Andals Nachiyar Thirumozhi reads, Vellai nunmanal kondu sittril visiththirapada , which roughly translates to: using fine white sand, we carefully draw beautiful kolams on the streets. There are also literary sources that show men indulging in this exercise. A 12th century poem mentions a ghost, presumably male, making decorative patterns from pearl dust. According to Meenakshi, The practice of drawing kolam has evolved over centuries. This shows the dynamic nature of this custom. The other characteristics include constantly changing in terms of its designs and colours. Adding to the list, Meenakshi notes, It is therapeutic. It brought some healing in me. Sacred patterns on streets This ever-evolving art form finds its expression during Margazhi as this Tamil month brings with it positivity and happiness. Vardhani KL, a software analyst (@kolamveri on Instagram), shares, I always look forward to Margazhi . It is one of my favourite months because it is winter. When you wake up, you see how beautiful the climate is. It is also the season of bhajans and keerthans . And when you do the kolam , you hear them. She describes kolams as a habit of decorating our homes. It is an extension to the decoration we do inside. Vardhani urges that everyone should come forward and take up this habit and it shouldnt be restricted to a particular religion or region. Meenakshi echoes the same thoughts. Schools should recognise this practice and encourage kids to take it up. Kolam shouldnt be shrunk to a particular religion, and to women, she says. Usually there is a gender restriction that it should be done only by ladies in the family but the case is not like that for us because its just an art form. The main point here is that tradition should not be lost, says Jayashankar Sreenivasan (@mrsandmrkolam on Instagram). Jayashankar learnt this skill from his chithi (aunt) and his mother. He shares, Every morning, they put kolam on the threshold. Sitting there and watching them raised an interest in me. I thought this form should not be restricted only to the female community. Why should girls have all the fun? His family was supportive and encouraged him in building this talent and excelling. With respect to my wife, she has the leverage of doing it. Nobody is going to stop her, he remarked. His wife keeps the dots and he continues the kolam , he says, adding, We discuss what kind of designs to draw the next day. It brought a uniqueness in our collaborative creativity. Visual grammar In any pattern, keeping a symmetric dot is pivotal. If the dots are haywire, your design goes haywire, points out Jayashankar. The dots are then followed by designs and patterns. I bring geometry into my designs. Celtic designs are popular in foreign countries especially in Europe and the UK. Its looked upon as a symbol of oneness. Our temple carvings have celtic designs. We brought such kinds into our kolam designs, he shares. Once the intricate designs are outlined, it is then filled with colours, not every but a select few, each carrying a symbolic meaning. The popular kaavi (red) colour represents auspiciousness. When added with white, it brings in the value of Shiva and Shakti. The white is Shiva and the red is the Shakti, explains Jayashankar. Additionally, manjal (yellow) adds a devotional aspect to the kolam . To please the eyes, green and blue colours are included. Green is pasumai . Blue is water, neer . It is also associated with agayam, he says. Nowadays using grey and black has become a common practice. The 2025 Margazhi This Margazhi season, while Meenakshi will follow her tradition of showing the verses of Thiruppavai in her kolams , Varadhini is excited about her chikku kolams , Jayashankar and his wife are are working on a series of new designs, something on aspects of Andal Pasurams . We want to depict it in the chikku kolam and padi kolam . Ensuring we keep it traditional rather than trying something with the latest trend, he concludes.
Around 4,000 micro-observers to scrutinise SIR hearing process in West Bengal
Sources in the CEOs office said that micro-observers will check for any discrepancies during hearings, and would report any red flags to EROs, AEROs and District Electoral Officers.
EC to Deploy Central Govt Officers As Micro Observers for SIR in West Bengal
Officials to verify forms, documents and hearings during Special Intensive Revision
SIR document verification hearings spark anxiety among Matuas in West Bengal
In West Bengal, the Matua community is bracing for a tense period as document verification hearings approach, pivotal in safeguarding their voting rights. The anticipation surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's forthcoming trip to Nadia district is tangible, as community members hope for clearer insights regarding the Citizenship Amendment Act and their prospects.
West Bengal BJP flags violence in Bangladesh, Trinamool hits back
Since August 2024, when former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had to flee the country, the West Bengal unit of the BJP has been highlighting the alleged violence and attacks against Hindus in Bangladesh
Ph.D crisis in West Bengal, rest of India: How most UGC-NET scholars have no fellowship support
Explore the Ph.D. crisis in West Bengal and India, highlighting funding shortages and their impact on aspiring scholars.
This Isn't Ayodhya. Nobody Can Touch Babri Here: Humayun Kabir To NDTV
Suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir has said that a mosque named the Babri Masjid will be constructed in West Bengal's Murshidabad district within three years, and that no authority or political force will be able to prevent it.
UP youtuber's Lamborghini Urus, Mercedes, Thar among luxury vehicles seized in online betting probe
Uttar Pradesh based YouTuber's multiple luxury vehicles, including a Lamborghini Urus, Mercedes and Mahindra Thar has been seized by the Enforcement Directorate. ED seized them during searches linked to a money laundering probe suspected illegal online betting networks involving a The investigation stems from a West Bengal Police FIR and is ongoing.
West Bengal battling defamation for political reasons, says CM Mamata Banerjee
Trying to hard-sell the State as an investment destination, the Chief Minister said that about 2,800 companies and 2 lakh professionals are working in the IT sector in West Bengal, and Bengals Silicon Valley is attracting an investment of 35,000 crore, which will create over 1 lakh jobs.
IMD Weather update: Delhi has been put on a yellow alert by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) today. The IMD has predicted partly cloudy sky with moderate to shallow fog in the national capital. Very dense fog is likely to prevail in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Odisha, the IMD said.
Mamata Banerjee to rename Karmashree scheme after Gandhi
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shame over Mahatma Gandhi's name being removed from MGNREGA. She announced the state's Karmashree scheme will now be named after the Father of the Nation. This move aims to honor Gandhi and provide over 75 days of work annually. Banerjee highlighted Bengal's potential as a business gateway and its IT sector growth.
Goenka Group commits Rs 15,800 cr investment in Bengal
Kolkata: Sanjiv Goenka, Chairman of the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, on Thursday announced a capital expenditure plan totalling Rs 15,800 crore aimed at bolstering infrastructure across energy, education, and healthcare sectors in West Bengal. Addressing the Business and Industry Conclave 2025 here, he praised the decisive leadership of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, which facilitates [] The post Goenka Group commits Rs 15,800 cr investment in Bengal appeared first on The Navhind Times .
Sourav Ganguly Files Complaint Over Objectionable Remarks By Football Fan Club Head
Argentina Football Fan Club: Former Indian cricket team captain Sourav Ganguly on Thursday lodged a complaint with the Kolkata Police's cyber cell against the head of an Argentinian football team fan club, alleging that the individual made offensive and defamatory remarks against him, police sources said. Ganguly filed the complaint at Lalbazar, the city police headquarters, through email, stating that the comments were harming his reputation and causing mental distress. According to police sources, Ganguly named one Uttam Saha in his complaint, alleging that he had publicly made false statements against him. Saha is reportedly the president of the 'Argentina Football Fan Club' in Kolkata. In the complaint, Ganguly stated that the individual knowingly made false, malicious, offensive and defamatory remarks, and publicly levelled serious allegations that have no basis in reality. In his letter, Ganguly further said that over his decades-long professional career as an athlete and sports administrator, he has earned a strong reputation both nationally and internationally. He alleged that attempts were being made to tarnish his image through baseless accusations. The complaint comes in the backdrop of chaos at the Salt Lake Stadium on December 13 during an event linked to Argentine football star Lionel Messi. The stadium was filled much before the event began, with spectators eager to catch a glimpse of the footballer. As soon as Messi arrived, many in the crowd attempted to surround him and take photographs, despite the presence of security personnel. A chaotic situation ensued, with spectators later complaining that they were unable to even see Messi. Messi reportedly left the field within just 22 minutes, following which vandalism broke out. Chairs and bottles were hurled onto the field from the stands, gates were broken, and spectators entered the field. Acts of vandalism were also reported in the galleries and restrooms of the Yuva Bharati Krirangan. Following the incident, the West Bengal government constituted an investigation committee. Event organiser Satadru Dutta was arrested, while on Tuesday, state Sports Minister Aroop Biswas resigned from his post and top IPS officers, including DGP Rajeev Kumar, were issued show-cause notices. Messi reportedly left the field within just 22 minutes, following which vandalism broke out. Chairs and bottles were hurled onto the field from the stands, gates were broken, and spectators entered the field. Acts of vandalism were also reported in the galleries and restrooms of the Yuva Bharati Krirangan. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The cyber cell is expected to examine the complaint and take further action as per law. Article Source: IANS
Mamata Banerjee To Rename Karmashree Scheme After Mahatma Gandhi Amid 'G Ram G' Row
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced to rename its rural job guarantee scheme 'Karmashree' after Mahatma Gandhi.
Central forces will secure the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer's office from Friday following protests by BLOs concerned about work pressure and safety. The Election Commission is increasing scrutiny of the electoral roll revision process after several BLOs died. Meanwhile, a voter received a show-cause notice for being registered in two constituencies.
West Bengal SIR: ECI begins to send notices for hearing over claims, objections to draft voters list
NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has commenced the second phase of SIR from Thursday in West Bengal by sending notices for hearing on the claims and objections to the draft voters list. Sources said the ECI has started sending notices to the unmapped voters -- those voters who have no connection with the voters list for 2002 -- either through self-mapping or through progeny mapping. Self-mapping voters are those who have their names in both the current voters list of October 2025 and the list of 2002, the last time the Intensive Summary Revision (ISR) was conducted in West Bengal. On the other hand, the progeny mapping voters include those whose parents names appear on the list for 2002. The number of unmapped voters in West Bengal currently stands at 30,59,273, according to the draft electoral rolls. Those who will be served with notices for hearing will be given seven days to be present for the hearing. The dates, times, and venues for the hearing will be mentioned in the notices, an ECI official said. These 30,59,273 voters are in addition to the 58,20,899 excluded voters from the earlier list of October 2025, which includes deceased voters, shifted voters, untraceable voters, duplicate voters, and voters suitable for exclusion due to other reasons, the officials said. Meanwhile, the ECI has also identified over 1.60 crore voters, in whose cases weird family-tree data has been detected. It added that many of these voters with doubtful family-tree data would also be summoned for a hearing and be asked to explain the weirdness on this count. The voters with weird family data include those who have fathers and mothers names as the same in the last voters list, voters who became fathers at the age of 15 or even below, and voters who became grandfathers at the age of 40 or even below, they added. An instance has surfaced where the voter has been identified, who supposedly became a father of two sons at the age of five, they said. The final voters list for West Bengal will be published on February 14 next year, and following this, the ECI plans to announce the polling dates for the Assembly elections in the State.
JSW Energy to double Salboni thermal power project to 3,200 MW; investment rising to Rs 40,000 cr
JSW Energy is set to significantly expand its Salboni thermal power project in West Bengal, doubling its capacity to 3,200 MW. This ambitious plan, involving an estimated Rs 40,000 crore investment, aims to meet the state's escalating power needs. The company's initial 1,600 MW phase is already underway, solidifying its commitment to the region's energy infrastructure.
Mustard coverage touches 77.06 lakh hectares, up 6% y-o-y
Notable expansion in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and West Bengal, says SEA
CM Mamata slams Centre over G RAM G bill, says Bengals job scheme will be renamed after Gandhi
West Bengal CM said if some political parties failed to show respect to our national icons, we will do it, without directly naming the BJP
Tenfold increase in Minority Affairs dept budget since TMC came to power in Bengal: Mamata
KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said that the state Minority Affairs department's plan budget has seen a tenfold increase since the TMC came to power in the state. In a post on X on the occasion of Minority Rights Day, Banerjee extended greetings to the people and stated that the department's plan budget had increased from Rs 472 crore in 201011 to over Rs 5,602 crore in 202526. It is my pride that our government has done unprecedented work and continues to do so for minority development. The plan budget has been increased more than tenfold, Banerjee said in a post on X, reaffirming her government's commitment to protecting minority rights and ensuring equitable development in the state. The chief minister claimed that West Bengal ranks first in the country in the distribution of minority scholarships, with 4.85 crore students having benefited from the state-funded 'Aikyashree' scheme at a cost exceeding Rs 10,200 crore since 2011. She added that minority students are being provided education loans of up to Rs 30 lakh for higher studies in India and abroad, while minority and OBC students are covered under the 'Medhashree' scheme. Over the last nearly 15 years, around 16.31 lakh beneficiaries have received self-employment loans amounting to about Rs 3,926 crore, Banerjee wrote. She also highlighted the state's top ranking in the implementation of the Multi-Sectoral Development Programme (MSDP), under which more than Rs 4,500 crore has been spent on infrastructure creation in minority-dominated areas. Additional investments have been made through the state-funded IMDP scheme and other infrastructure projects, Banerjee said. Referring to education and social infrastructure, the CM said English-medium model madrasas and integrated schools are being established, Aliah University campuses have been developed in New Town and Park Circus, and maintenance allowances for students in minority hostels have been enhanced. She further said Urdu has been granted official language status in areas with over 10 per cent Urdu-speaking population, a new Haj House has been built at Rajarhat New Town, and outreach on welfare schemes is being strengthened through imams, muezzins and dedicated minority development bodies. Urdu has been given the status of an official language wherever more than 10 per cent of the population is Urdu-speaking, she said, adding that regional centres of the Urdu Academy have been opened in Islampur and Asansol.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat begins four-day West Bengal visit amid run-up to assembly polls
KOLKATA: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat arrived at Bagdogra airport on Thursday to begin a four-day visit to West Bengal, during which he is scheduled to take part in several organisational programmes of the Sangh across the state. During his stay, on Thursday, Bhagwat will attend a youth programme in Siliguri in Darjeeling district . On Friday, he is slated to address a meeting of RSS functionaries in Siliguri, where he is expected to issue guidelines to Sangh activists. He will then travel to Kolkata, where he will hold a series of organisational meetings on Saturday and Sunday. Security has been tightened for the RSS chief throughout his visit. Political observers view Bhagwats Bengal tour as significant, coming at a time when the state is gearing up for assembly elections scheduled next year. They said the visit assumes importance amid an intensifying political climate in the state. Observers also pointed out that, setting aside issues such as corruption cases including the teachers recruitment scam involving the invalidation of appointments of 26,000 teachers, the Saradha and Narada scams, alleged coal and cattle smuggling, the rape and murder of a woman doctor at R G Kar Medical College Hospital, and the recent Salt Lake Stadium vandalism the forthcoming polls could, for the first time, see a sharper focus on religious polarisation between Hindus and Muslims under the Trinamool Congress regime, which has been in power since 2011. According to RSS insiders, Bhagwat has planned visits to several major states as part of celebrations marking the organisations ongoing centenary year, holding meetings with swayamsevaks across the country. His Bengal visit, they said, also comes against the backdrop of the BJP stepping up efforts to consolidate Hindu votes in the state, while countering Trinamool Congress chief and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees alleged Muslim appeasement ahead of the Assembly elections. Sources said Bhagwat, during his engagements in Siliguri and Kolkata, is keen to gauge the mood of minority voters in both north and south Bengal districts. Political observers noted that the BJPs Bengal unit has recently softened its stance towards the Muslim community, with leaders such as Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly, attempting to reach out to Indian Muslims who respect the countrys traditional cultural heritage. The RSS-backed organisation Muslim Rashtriya Manch has also been active in this outreach, and Bhagwat has previously attended programmes organised by the platform. At 75, Bhagwat who may retire from his organisational post is said to be exploring broader support, including from sections of the Muslim community, for the BJP in the upcoming Assembly elections. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in a post on X amid Bhagwats visit, claimed that her government has undertaken unprecedented initiatives for minority development in the state. She said around 30% of the Muslim population votes for the Trinamool Congress and highlighted increased budgetary support for minority welfare. The plan budget allocation for the minorities have gone up Rs 5,602 crore in financial year 2025-26 from Rs 472 crore in 2010-11, she said on X, while extending her best wishes on Minority Rights Day.
ITC planning 3 more hotels in West Bengal: Chairman Sanjiv Puri
ITC Chairman Sanjiv Puri announced plans for three new hotels in West Bengal. This expansion taps into the state's growing tourism potential. The company is acquiring land for projects in Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Sundarbans. These additions will strengthen ITC's hospitality presence in Bengal.
Consensus reached on appointment of VCs in Kerala varsities, Governor tells SC
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court was informed on Thursday that the Kerala Governor and the state government have agreed on names for the appointment of vice chancellors of the A P J Abdul Kalam Technological University and Kerala University of Digital Sciences. The Attorney General, appearing for the Governor, informed the apex court that the matter had been resolved and that the development duly communicated to Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia. The Supreme Court bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K V Viswanathan on Thursday hailed the development as a very happy ending, clarifying that all the questions of law arising from the dispute have been kept open for future adjudication. The apex court said a university cannot run without the vice chancellor as he has an important role to play. Lets put an end to this. We have to make sure that (the candidates) are meritorious, Justice Pardiwala remarked. Senior Advocate Jaideep Gupta, appearing for Kerala government, submitted that an appointment order should not have been issued while the matter was still pending before the Court. Hearing these submissions, Justice Pardiwala, however, observed that the Courts primary concern had always been to ensure that appointments were made. The court also in its order noted that Justice Dhulia was entrusted with the task of recommending at least three names for the Vice-Chancellor posts. Today, we are happy that the Chancellor and the Government, in one voice, have reported that the appointment of the Vice-Chancellors has been made, he said. After our last order referred to above, there has been some positive developments. This case illustrates how timely and decisive intervention can go a long way in protecting rights of citizens. Two prominent universities were ruler less. They had no permanent VC heading them. The only reason was, that a consensus was eluding the governor and state government. Doors of this court was knocked, we were deeply concerned, the bench said. We appointed Justice Dhulia and entrusted him with the task of recommending at least three names for VC in two universities. Today, we are happy that the chancellor and government in one voice have reported that the appointment of the VC has been made. We place our appreciation to the good office of Justice Dhulia, it added. The top court in its order said its endeavour was that the interest of all stakeholders is safeguarded. We place our appreciation to the authorities who have acted in aid of the court in appointment. Curtains have been gracefully brought down by the authorities and we also appreciate the attorney general and senior advocate Jaideep Gupta and to the entire team assisting for bringing around a very happy ending to this saga, the bench said. The top court had earlier said it would intervene to resolve the ongoing deadlock over the selection of vice chancellors for two technical universities in Kerala if the chief minister and the governor do not reach a consensus. On November 28, the top court took serious exception to the Kerala governor and chancellor ot looking at the Dhulia Committee report on the appointment of the vice chancellors of the two universities and remarked that it is not just an ordinary piece of paper. On September 2, the Kerala governor moved the apex court for the exclusion of Vijayan from the selection process of the vice chancellors. The governor said neither of the universities envisioned any role for the chief minister in the selection process. On August 18, to end the impasse between the Kerala governor and the state government over the appointment of vice-chancellors, the apex court appointed former apex court judge Dhulia as head of a panel meant for shortlisting names. Justice Dhulia demitted office as Supreme Court judge on August 9. On July 30, the top court asked both the Kerala government and the attorney general, appearing for the governor, to work out some mechanism in harmony to resolve the dispute. The Governor in the petition filed in the top court, said neither of the universities envisioned any role for the chief minister in the selection process of Vice-Chancellors. The plea of Arlekar said that the role of chief minister in the entire selection process for appointment of VCs for the two universities and referred to State of West Bengal versus Dr Sanat Kumar Ghosh and Others, the directions of which had been applied in the present case. He added in his plea that since the minister is a part of the selection process in the appointment of Vice Chancellors in the State of West Bengal, this court made the Chief Minister a part of the said process. Karlekar pointed out in his petition that the university enactments -- the A P J Abdul Kalam Technological University Act and the Kerala Digital University Act -- had no provision for having the minister for higher education or the state government as a part of the selection process for recommendation for appointment of VCs. Therefore, in the humble submission of the application the role of CM for selection of VCs as mentioned in the order dated August 18, may be modified by this court, the plea of Karlelar said, adding that the chief ministers involvement would violate the principle against a person judging his own cause, a norm embedded in the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations. The Chief Minister being the Executive Head of the State is connected with the number of government colleges, managed by the government and affiliated to the university. Therefore, as per UGC Regulations he cannot have any role whatsoever in the appointment of Vice Chancellors, the application said.
RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group commits Rs 15,800 crore capex in Bengal
RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group Chairman Sanjiv Goenka announced a Rs 15,800 crore capital expenditure plan for West Bengal, focusing on energy, education, and healthcare. A key project is a 5,000 MWh storage facility costing Rs 12,000 crore, aiming to power Kolkata with 50% renewable energy. The group will also invest Rs 1,000 crore in expanding education and healthcare facilities.
No Power For 12 Hours On Dec 19: Check Affected Areas In West Bengaluru
Once the transformer capacity enhancement work is completed, BESCOM expects improved load handling in the Byadarahalli zone.
Messi fiasco in Kolkata: Abhishek Banerjee defendsWest Bengal CM Mamata, government
LoPSuvenduAdhikari barred from entering Salt Lake Stadium; four-person Special Investigation Team visits stadium and probes intolast weeks vandalism
Bengal BJP makes public a report blaming Trinamool regime for States industrial decline
The BJP released the document a day before West Bengal government is likely to hold a high-level business conclave in Kolkata on December 18 to highlight the states industrial progress and new investment prospects
Suspended Trinamool MLA Floats Own Party, Will Contest In 135 Seats In Polls
Humayun Kabir, who was recently suspended by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) after repeated clashes with the party's leadership, has decided to float his own political party ahead of the high-stakes assembly elections in West Bengal next year.
EC to start issuing SIR hearing notices in West Bengal on Thursday
West Bengals Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) will begin issuing hearing notices from December 18 as part of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). Around 32 lakh unmapped voterswhose details werent linked to the 2002 SIR data but appear in the 2026 draft rollsmay receive notices.
Follow Calcutta HC norms on child access, custody: Karnataka High Court
BENGALURU: The Karnataka High Court directed all the courts in the state to follow the guidelines approved by the Calcutta High Court for child access and child custody, along with the parental plan, till the Rule Committee frames the guidelines in the state. A division bench of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice CM Poonacha passed the order while hearing the suo moto public interest litigation registered by it on the matter in 2023. The court noted that the counsels for the parties stated that the Child Access and Custody Guidelines, along with Parenting Plan 2025, were formulated with the participation of several stakeholders and the said guidelines were placed before the Calcutta High Court. The same have been directed to be circulated in terms of the order dated September 23, 2025. The counsels told the court that those guidelines may be directed to be adopted till the same are considered by the Rule Committee and appropriate changes are made, which may be necessary. Taking on record the guidelines placed before it, the court noted that the High Court of Calcutta, while considering a Public Interest Litigation for a direction to frame appropriate guidelines for child access, child custody, along with a parental plan, had referred the matter to the Rule Committee of the said Court. The Rule Committee invited suggestions from the District Judges, Directors of the Judicial Academy, State of West Bengal, Child Psychologists and other relevant stakeholders, who had held various deliberations with regard to the suggestions made. A Sub-Committee was also appointed for the said purpose, and guidelines have been framed. Pursuant to which, the High Court of Calcutta, by order dated September 23, accepted the same and ordered that till the Rules are framed and approved, the guidelines be followed. In view of this, we direct that the said guidelines be placed before the Rule Committee for considering the necessary changes. In the meanwhile, the Registrar General should circulate these guidelines to all the District Judges, Family Courts and Magistrates in the state exercising jurisdiction in matters relating to the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. We clarify that the said guidelines should be applied till the Rules are made by the Rule Making Committee and are approved in accordance with law, the court observed.
2,081 govt schools in Telangana have no students, highest in country: Centre
Hyderabad: The Union Education Ministry has revealed that 5,149 government schools across India had zero students enrolled during the 202425 academic year, with nearly 70 percent of these located in Telangana and West Bengal. The ministry presented this data in a recent report submitted to Parliament. Nalgonda district tops list in Telangana According to 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 .
Opposition mounts attack on govt over G-Ram-G bill, says rights will be diluted
NEW DELHI: Mounting a sharp attack on the proposed legislation to replace MGNREGA, the Opposition parties on Wednesday accused the government of weakening the rights-based welfare scheme and for attempting to erase Mahatma Gandhis legacy. Initiating the debate on Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill (VB-G RAM G), Congress MP from Haryana, Jai Prakash, said the proposed law will create fresh financial liabilities for the states and deprive grassroots-level bodies such as the gram sabhas of their rights to decide on the work to be undertaken under the draft law. Opposing the bill, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh said that the provisions of the new bill are a blow to states like Kerala, which is already under financial strain due to Centres anti- state policies. Suresh also lamented the deletion of Mahatma Gandhis name from the title of the proposed Bill. However, the treasury benches mounted a strong defence with many citing the increase of working days from 100 to 125 days. Mahua Moitra of the Trinamool Congress said the provision of 60:40 basis of Centre-State expenditure-sharing would prove to be the death knell of the scheme. In an expenditure of `10,000 crore, the distribution of 60:40 Centre-State spending would be `6,000 crore and `4,000 crore. So, the state share has gone up by 430%, said Moitra. Quoting Gandhi, she said, By Ram Rajya I do not mean Hindu Raj, I mean divine Raj, the kingdom of God. Ram Rajya ensures equal rights for all, prince and pauper alike. It is the sovereignty of the people based on moral authority. The MP added, By changing the name and repealing the act you have destroyed Gandhi jis idea of Ram Rajya both in letter and in spirit. She pointed out that before the suspension of fund releases in 2022, Bengal was among the top performers of MGNREGA nationwide. Approximately 2.6 crore job card holders across 1.4 crore rural households were in Bengal. Since March 2022, the government has not released one single paisa to West Bengal. As of today the Centre has outstanding MGNREGA dues of `52,000 crore, Moitra said. When we went to meet the minister we were dragged out by the police, the Trinamool MP said.
Caught in a Limbo: Delays plague R.R. Nagar flyover and underpass projects, commuters bear the brunt
Much like last year, two crucial projects aimed at decongesting West Bengalurus R.R. Nagar have not moved an inch, while one long-neglected project has finally been revived
SIR in Bengal: 45K voters deleted from Mamatas assembly seat
Kolkata: The TMC leadership has decided to instruct its booth-level agents to carry out fresh, door-to-door scrutiny of deleted voters names in Bhabanipur, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees assembly constituency, after nearly 45,000 electors were struck off from the draft rolls under the SIR exercise, party sources said. According to Election Commission data, Bhabanipur 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 .
Bengal SIR: ECI to subject hearings on claims, objections to daily audits
NEW DELHI: After completing the first phase of the three-stage Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal with the publication of the draft electoral rolls on Tuesday, the Election Commission of India (ECI) will now focus on strict monitoring of the hearings on claims and objections, scheduled to begin next week. Sources in the ECI said that, in view of large-scale irregular voters data detected during progeny mapping, where, in several cases, the age difference between father and child was found to be less than 15 years, it has been decided to subject the proceedings of the hearings on claims and objections to daily audits. A source said, The idea is to detect the doubtful cases during the hearing sessions and refer such individuals back to the electoral registration officers (EROs) concerned for rechecking. At the same time, sources said the ECI has also decided to video-record the entire hearing sessions and, if necessary, conduct webcasting of the proceedings. The recorded videos will be preserved and examined to identify doubtful cases, they added. The sources also said the ECI has decided to adopt a two-pronged monitoring mechanism for the hearing sessions, one by the special roll observers appointed by the Commission to review the SIR exercise, and the other by senior ECI officials monitoring the process online directly from the Commissions headquarters in New Delhi. The Commission has also decided to appoint micro-observers for the second stage of the three-stage revision exercise, which will involve the filing of claims and objections and the notice phase, the sources said. They added that the issuance, hearing, verification and decision on enumeration forms, and their disposal, will be carried out concurrently by the EROs. Thereafter, the third stage of the SIR will commence, during which the ECI will publish the final voters list on February 14 next year. Soon after the publication of the final voters list, the ECI will announce the dates for the crucial Assembly elections scheduled to be held next year, the sources said.
The SIR of West Bengal's voter list exposes a twist-unmapped voters are concentrated in Matua-dominated seats, not Muslim areas, denting BJP's migrant narrative.
Over 5,000 govt schools sit empty with zero students; 70% in Telangana and West Bengal
Thousands of government schools in India are empty of students. Telangana and West Bengal lead with the most zero-enrolment schools. This situation persists despite a large number of teachers being posted to these institutions. The number of schools with very few or no students has increased. This data comes from government figures shared in Parliament.
Telangana, WB Top List of Govt Schools With Zero Enrolment
While Telangana has approximately 2,081 zero enrolment schools, West Bengal has 1,571 such institutions
7.6% Voters Removed From West Bengal Draft Roll, 1.6 Crore Under Scanner
About 58 lakh voters, amounting to 7.6 per cent, were removed from the voter list because they have died, moved away, were absent or were registered more than once.
'Md Salim Awasthi': CPM Leader, A Muslim, Becomes Brahmin In SIR Draft Roll
In an epic error during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in West Bengal, CPM's state general secretary and former MP, Mohammed Salim, and his son, Atish Aziz, have been given a Brahmin last name -- Awasthi -- in the draft roll
Pan India SIR: Over 1 crore voters missing from draft rolls, West Bengal tops list
New Delhi: As many as 12.32 crore electors have found their names in the draft electoral rolls of three states and two Union territories published on Tuesday as part of the ongoing special intensive revision as compared to the 13.36 crore people who were part of the voters list on October 27. Election Commission officials 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 .
SC defers hearing in West Bengal VC appointment matter to Jan
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday deferred to January next year a plea related to the appointment of regular vice-chancellors in the state-aided universities in West Bengal. A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi took note of the submissions of Attorney General R Venkataramani, appearing for the office of Governor 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 .
After Pahalgam attack, Kashmir tourism stakeholders look to winter snowfall for revival
SRINAGAR: After the onset of winter in Kashmir, the stakeholders are eagerly waiting for the seasons first major snowfall, hoping it will revive tourist footfall to the Valley and help offset the severe blow dealt to the tourism sector following the April 22 Pahgalam terror attack . From hoteliers to houseboat owners to ski instructors and tour operators and shikara wallas, everybody is eagerly waiting for the snowfall that could breathe life back into the struggling tourism sector. There is hope that a good spell of snow will once again attract tourists from the country and abroad to the picturesque, snow-clad Valley. People will come to Kashmir as there is no better place than it. We are getting good response from tourists for Christmas and New Year, said tour operator Farooq Ahmad Kuthoo. He said a sizable number of tourists from Gujarat, Maharashtra, South India and West Bengal are visiting Kashmir. Asserting that snowfall remains the key factor, Kuthoo said, If there is good snowfall, the tourist inflow to the Valley will increase manifold and it will help in the revival of tourism. Tour operator and Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) Secretary General Sajad Kralyari said the tourist arrivals has picked up this month only and compared to previous months, the bookings have increased for Christmas and New Year. It may significantly increase if there is snowfall. Many intending tourists have kept their Kashmir visit on hold and are awaiting snowfall. The bookings will spur any time if it snows, he said. According to Kralyari, some hotels are sold out in Gulmarg for Christmas and New Year. The world's highest revolving restaurant, recently opened on Apharwat Peak in Gulmarg, offering 360-degree panoramic views, has emerged as an added attraction for tourists this winter. Kralyari noted that, unlike previous years when Gulmarg used to be fully booked during the Christmas and New Year, the April 22 attack in Pahalgam severely dented tourist confidence and the sector is still in the process of recovery. On April 22, militants attacked tourists at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam killing 25 tourists and a local ponywala. The attack dealt a severe blow to the tourism sector in the Valley and it is yet to revive. Tourist footfall and arrivals will increase significantly if there is snowfall and mountains and plains are covered with snow blankets, Kralyari said. The winter tourist destination of Sonamarg in central Kashmir, once abuzz with visitors during winter, is waiting for tourists. President Hotel Association Sonamarg Farooq Hafiz said there is negligible tourist footfall at the tourist destination. We expect the tourists will return to the place if and when there is snowfall. After snowfall, the Sonmarg turns into a winter wonderland and attracts tourists in large numbers, he said. Kashmir is presently in the grip of intense cold with the night temperature staying below freezing point due to prolonged dry spell. However, in good news, MeT has predicted light snow over upper reaches of Kashmir and light rain over scattered plain areas of J&K from December 20 night to 21st afternoon. Manzoor Pakhtoon, chairman All Kashmir Houseboat Owners Association (AKHBOA) said at present all houseboats in Dal Lake and Nageen lake are lying vacant. It all depends on snowfall. If there is snowfall, the tourist footfall will definitely increase and occupancy of houseboats and hotels will improve, he said.
Supreme Court transfers RG Kar Medical College trainee doctor rape-murder case to Calcutta HC
NEW DELHI : The Supreme Court on Wednesday transferred the RG Kar Medical College trainee doctor rape and murder case to the Calcutta High Court. The top court had taken suo motu cognisance of the case in 2024. A bench of justices MM Sundresh and Satish Chandra Sharma directed that the case papers be sent to the high court. The top court also directed that a copy of the status report be given to the parents of the victim. The body of the postgraduate trainee doctor was found in the hospital's seminar room on August 9 last year. The Kolkata Police arrested Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer, the next day. On January 20, a Kolkata trial court awarded convict Roy life term imprisonment till death in the case. The crime triggered nationwide outrage and prolonged protests in West Bengal. The apex court, even after the primary conviction, is monitoring multiple ancillary issues, including regularising the unauthorised absence of doctors. While taking suo motu notice of the case, the bench constituted a National Task Force (NTF) on August 20 last year to formulate a protocol to ensure the safety and security of medical professionals in the wake of the crime.
The West Bengal government has released its official holiday calendar for 2026. State government offices and banks will observe these closures. Dates for certain religious festivals may change based on moon sightings, with separate orders to follow. Some days are designated as sectional holidays for employees of specific communities.
Around 1.36 crore voters will be called for SIR hearings in West Bengal: CEO
KOLKATA : Around 1.36 crore voters will be called for hearings as part of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, a senior Election Commission official said. He said the state has completed the SIR exercise within the stipulated timeframe. Among the big states, we finished in time. Others have asked for more time, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Kumar Agarwal said on Tuesday. Around 1 crore 36 lakh voters will be called for hearings, though this number may reduce. If someone cannot attend a hearing due to a genuine reason, it will certainly be considered, he said. Agarwal said the names of these voters were flagged during the exercise. The Commission on Tuesday published West Bengal's draft electoral rolls following SIR, deleting the names of more than 58 lakh voters on various grounds, including death and migration, and redrawing voter profiles across districts and border belts ahead of the 2026 assembly polls. He said some names have been removed from the draft rolls due to mismatches and procedural reasons. They will also be called, and there will be no difficulty, he said, adding that voters whose names do not appear in the draft rolls should submit Form 6 along with Annexure 4. Booth-level officers (BLOs) have already started making door-to-door visits to notify those who would be called for hearing, he said. The CEO also called for greater delegation of powers. In Bihar, the EROs were given the responsibility for disposals. We are asking that AEROs be given more powers, he said. Agarwal also acknowledged the role of political parties in the process. Agents of political parties have helped us, and we are thanking them for their cooperation, he said. He said complaints or information related to the draft rolls could be shared with the observers. Special camps have been opened, and BLA-BLO meetings have been held, he said.
Around 1.36 Crore Voters To Be Called For SIR Hearings in West Bengal
The Election Commission published West Bengal's draft electoral rolls following SIR, deleting the names of more than 58 lakh voters on various ground
TMC for door-to-door scrutiny after 45,000 voters deleted from Mamata Banerjee's assembly seat
The TMC has instructed its booth-level agents to physically verify all deleted voter names in Mamata Banerjees Bhabanipur constituency after nearly 45,000 voters (about 22% of the electorate) were removed from the draft rolls during West Bengals Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
Bengal Government Took Action After Messi Incident: Abhishek Banerjee
Trinamool Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Tuesday said the West Bengal government has taken action following the chaos during an event involving Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi.
Over 1.36 crore voters flagged in progeny mapping in West Bengal SIR
ECI says anomaliesemergedduring progeny mapping; claims and objections window now open till January 15
West Bengal Govt Took Action Following Messi Incident: Abhishek Banerjee
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday accepted the sports minister's resignation, while the state government show-caused the DGP and other senior officers, and suspended a deputy commissioner.
Phase 2 SIR: Over one crore names left out in three states, two UTs
Electoral rolls in five states and Union Territories have seen over one crore names removed. This is part of a special revision process. West Bengal and Rajasthan reported the largest exclusions. Genuine voters can still be added during a claims and objections period. Final rolls will be published in February 2026.
West Bengal SIR: Matuas fear hearings after many found unmapped
According to the Election Commission data, a total of 31,39,815 voters across the state have been categorised as unmapped and will be required to appear for hearings. These voters could not establish linkage with themselves or their progeny in the 2002 SIR.
200 BLOs demo against voter deletion in West Bengal
Kolkata: Around 200 members of a forum of booth-level officers (BLOs) held a demonstration outside the West Bengal CEOs office here on Tuesday, protesting against the alleged deletion of thousands of genuine voters in the draft electoral roll under the SIR. Members of the BLO Oikyo Manch (BLO Unity Platform) raised slogans against the Election 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 .
WB CM Mamata meets BLAs in Bhawanipore hours after ECI released draft electoral rolls for the State
KOLKATA: Hours after the Election Commission of India (ECI) released the draft electoral rolls on Tuesday, the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee held a meeting with Booth Level Agents (BLAs) in Bhawanipore assembly constituency this evening. Senior leaders and Kolkata civic body councillors of the party and ministers like Firhad Hakim attended the meeting. Bhawanipore constituency recorded around 44,000 dead and bogus voters as per the draft electoral rolls after completion of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls for West Bengal. The release of the draft rolls has prompted the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition to go for political equations in terms of electoral advantage ahead of the assembly polls scheduled next year in the State. EC releases draft electoral rolls in West Bengal post completion of SIR exercise phase one, 58 lakh voters deleted This afternoon, Mamata asked the party leaders and BLAs to verify the alleged reports of alive voters whose names have been deleted as dead in the draft electoral rolls. The Trinamool Congress supremo, who has been strongly opposing the SIR exercise since the ECI announced dates of voters list revision in the State in October, instructed the party BLA to check the draft rolls so that no genuine voter is deleted. She asked them to conduct door-to-door visits to help voters in every booth. Significantly, the names of 127 voters that have been deleted in the draft roll of Mitra Institution of polling booth (no. 260), is where Mamata casts her votes. Thirteen out of these deleted voters are dead, while the rest have been shifted permanently. The draft rolls seem to be a setback for the BJP camp as well with the deletion of 86,000 voters in the Matua-dominated Bongaon subdivision in North 24 Parganas district. There had been a phenomenal rise for BJP in Matua vote bank in Nadia, North 24 Parganas and parts of Jalpaiguri districts since 2019.
EC Delists 58.20 Lakh Invalid Voters In WB SIR Draft
The exact figure of the deleted voters names is 58,20,898, according to the SIR draft roll published by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal on Tuesday.
ECI publishes draft electoral rolls for five States and UTs
Over 58 lakh names have been removed from the existing voter lists in West Bengal,nearly 42lakhin Rajasthan, 10lakhin Goa, a little more than a lakh in Puducherry andnearly 1500inLakshwadweep.
GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said India would not stay silent on Bangladeshs repeated threats of merging the Northeast with Bangladesh. He called it a reflection of a bad mindset. Statements have been emanating from Bangladesh for the past year with calls to merge the Northeast with that country. But how will Bangladesh do it? Its wrong to even imagine this, Sarma told the media. He mentioned that India is a large and sovereign nation with the worlds fourth-largest economy. If such behaviour continues, we should teach them a lesson that we will not remain silent, he further stated. The remarks came a day after Hasnat Abdullah, a youth leader of Bangladeshs newly formed political outfit National Citizen Party, had threatened to breach Indias territorial integrity. I want to tell Bharat in clear terms that if you keep sheltering those who do not believe in the sovereignty, voting and human rights of our country, we will shelter the separatists of India and separate the Northeast, Hasnat had warned. He accused India of making the patrons of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina rise against Bangladesh by giving them money and arms. The provocation from Bangladesh started earlier this year when Chief Adviser of the countrys interim government Prof Mohammed Yunus stated, Seven states of India in its eastern part are a land-locked region. They have no way to reach the ocean. We are the only guardians of the ocean. Later, the threat shifted to the chicken neck, a 22 km-35 km wide corridor in Siliguri connecting the Northeast with the rest of India.CM Sarma had then stated that those who habitually threaten India on the Siliguri corridor must note that Bangladesh has two chicken necks and both are vulnerable. He mentioned that the first chickens neck (80 km) runs from Dakhin Dinajpur in West Bengal to South West Garo Hills in Meghalaya, while the other, Chittagong Corridor (28 km), runs from South Tripura till the Bay of Bengal.
The draft electoral rolls published on Tuesday show the state's electorate shrinking from around 7.66 crore voters to over 7.08 crore, after names were deleted on grounds ranging from death and permanent migration to duplication and non-submission of enumeration forms.
