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Threats to BLOs during SIR unacceptable: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has mandated all states to provide robust security for booth-level officers during voter enumeration, warning of severe action against any threats or obstructions. The court emphasized that non-cooperation with the Election Commission's work is a serious matter, extending beyond West Bengal to all states, and stressed the need for BLOs' safety to prevent anarchy.
SIR fuels social anxieties in Bengal
The eastern state shares a border and millennia of history with Bangladesh; political mudslinging about undocumented Bangladeshis and Rohingyas reaching a crescendo West Bengal recently recorded over 30 deaths, allegedly due to anxiety related to the special intensive revision (SIR) of the electoral roll that is being carried out by the Election Commission of India [] The post SIR fuels social anxieties in Bengal appeared first on The Navhind Times .
Mamata seeks PM's apology over 'Bankim Da' reference
In a passionate address, West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee lambasted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for what she deemed a significant slight to the revered Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the mind behind 'Vande Mataram.' Banerjee expressed deep concern, asserting that the Prime Minister's informal reference to Chattopadhyay as 'Bankim da' trivialized his monumental contributions.
Land for integrated check-posts in West Bengal in different stagesof acquisition: MHA
The West Bengal Government accorded approval for land acquisition only on November 21, 2023, and the Central Government has made the requisite payment to the State, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai said in a written reply to the Lok Sabha
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has opposed new Union government conditions for the 100-day job scheme. She stated the state will not beg for funds and will continue its own Karmashree program. Banerjee also warned against the BJP, claiming they aim to destroy Bengal's identity and language.
Pledging to provide employment through West Bengals Karmashree scheme
West Bengal Joint Entrance Examinations Board Announces WB JECA Online Counselling Schedule
Round 1 WB JECA results will be declared on December 17, with reporting to allotted institutes by December 21. Round 2 results follow on December 23.
Bow Your Head: Mamata Banerjee Seeks PM Modi's Apology Over 'Bankim Da'
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday demanded an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allegedly insulting legendary novelist Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay by referring to him as Bankim da in Parliament.
In between heated debates: Amit Shah takes lunch break with BJP MPs at Parliament canteen - video
Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserted in Rajya Sabha that the division of 'Vande Mataram' for appeasement politics fueled India's partition. He emphasised the song's enduring relevance in fostering cultural nationalism and driving the nation towards a developed future. Shah criticised the opposition for linking the debate to West Bengal elections, highlighting the song's historical significance during the freedom struggle.
West Bengal LoP accuses TMC of 'issuing SC/ST certificates to infiltrators'
KOLKATA: Suvendu Adhikari, BJP legislator and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on Tuesday alleged that the ruling Trinamool Congress is holding camps to issue SC, ST and OBC certificates for undocumented infiltrators and fake claimants. Suvendu shared a memo issued by the block development officer (BDO) of Kandi in Murshidabad district to substantiate his allegations against the Trinamool Congress. He showed instances of three such beneficiaries who were issued such certificates allegedly by the BDO after 24 June when the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls started in Bihar. He urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to look into the issue seriously. The Opposition leader requested the national poll body to conduct exhaustive probes into each certificate and cross-verify whether the community is genuinely enlisted as an SC, ST or OBC community by the Centre. Why the sudden panic? Because the Election Commission of India's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise is about to expose their voter fraud racket! The desperation is obvious because a large chunk of Mamata Banerjee's 'vote bank' is unable to link their names to the authentic 2002 Voter List, are staring down exclusion from the draft electoral rolls, he claimed in a post on X. It's a blatant bid to arm ineligible voters with 'certificates' that slyly match the ECI's list of 13 documents for hearings after the publication of draft electoral rolls. An attempt to make a mockery of democracy, by flooding the system with bogus SC/ST/OBC creds, he alleged. Adhikari alleged that efforts were being made to rob the true marginalised communities of their rightful share. Real SCs, STs, and OBCs will watch their benefits evaporate as ineligible people will swarm in, staking unethical claims, he claimed. The WB Govt has the habit of issuing OBC Certificates (mostly religion based) to ineligible people which have been struck down by the Honble Courts. Let the SIR purge the electoral rolls clean, and let Democracy prevail, he added. On the other hand, the Trinamool Congress continued its crusade against the Commission since it announced dates of the SIR process in Bengal. The Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee while addressing in a rally in Cooch Behar district on Tuesday alleged, The Election Commission of India may announce the dates of the assembly polls, scheduled next year, soon after the final voters list is released so that no one can move the court challenging the electoral rolls. Names of many genuine voters are being deleted during the roll revision exercise. People who are still alive being shown as deceased in the voters list by the Commission, she alleged. The Chief Minister during her two-day visit to Cooch Behar on Monday afternoon questioned in the administrative review meeting at Rabindra Bhavan in the district about timing and urgency of the SIR.
Supreme Court warns EC of anarchy if threats to BLOs during SIR go unchecked
The Supreme Court expressed serious concern over threats to BLOs and officials involved in electoral roll revision in West Bengal and other states. The bench urged the Election Commission to address the situation to prevent anarchy, emphasizing the need for state cooperation in the Special Intensive Revision process.
Let women protest against BSF atrocities: West Bengal CM
KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday urged women to protest against the Border Security Force (BSF) atrocities against people residing along the borders in the state. Let the women protest against BSF atrocities on people living in border areas. Let them come to the front to protest against the force, the Chief Minister said today while addressing in a rally organised by her party Trinamool Congress at Rashleela ground in Cooch Behar district. She urged the people to unite against the Central force. I want to see whether our mothers and sisters are more courageous and mightier than that of the BJP, she said. On Monday, while delivering speeches in an administrative meeting in the district she had alerted police administration to take prompt steps if the BSF tortures anybody along the border. Dont get panicked. I can assure you that no detention camp is allowed in Bengal as long Trinamool Congress is there in the state. No one will be pushed back and the BSF or not. We wont be cowed down by the BJP, the ruling party supremo said. We are trying to bring back the four other Bengali-speaking Indian citizens from Bangladesh. We have already brought back the pregnant Sunali Khatun and her eight-year-old son from to their motherland in Birbhum. The BSF had pushed them back to Bangladesh though they have necessary documents related to Indian citizenship, she added. BSF had pushed six Bengalis hailed from Paikar village in Murarai of Birbhum back to the neighbouring country on suspicion of them being Bangladeshi nationals in June. Raising the issue of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in the state she also said, The Election Commission of India may announce the dates of the assembly polls, scheduled next year, soon after the final voters list is released so that no one can move the court challenging the electoral rolls. Names of many genuine voters are being deleted during the roll revision exercise. People who are still alive being shown as deceased in the voters list by the Commission, she alleged while addressing in the rally. The Chief Minister during her two-day visit to Cooch Behar on Monday afternoon questioned in the administrative review meeting at Rabindra Bhavan in the district about timing and urgency of the SIR. Why must everything be done in such a hurry? Last time in 2002, the process took two years. I dont understand how an impartial poll panel can act so biasedly? she said. She also attacked the Centre, accusing it of not releasing funds due to the state for MGNREGA, the 100-day job guarantee scheme, despite an order of the Supreme Court. The CM charged the BJP-led central government with attempting to starve Bengal financially. All funds allotted for the 100-day job guarantee scheme and awas yojana have been stopped. The Centre has been imposing conditions on job guarantee scheme, she alleged by tear and tore a letter sent by it to her.
Division Of Vande Mataram Song Led To Partition Of India: Home Minister Amit Shah
NEW DELHI, Dec 9: The division of Vande Mataram song for politics of appeasement led to partition of India, Home Minister Amit Shah said in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, as he slammed Opposition for linking the debate on 150 years of the national song with the upcoming West Bengal elections. Initiating the debate in the House, Shah said Vande Mataram was the mantra that awakened Indias cultural nationalism, and remains as relevant today as it was during the freedom [] The post Division Of Vande Mataram Song Led To Partition Of India: Home Minister Amit Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
'No link to Bengal polls': Amit Shah dismisses oppn charge on Vande Mataram debate top quotes
Union Home Minister Amit Shah rejected claims that the Vande Mataram debate was politically motivated for the West Bengal elections. He stated the discussion was to highlight the national song's importance, especially as it marked its 150th anniversary. Opposition leaders, however, linked the timing to the upcoming polls, accusing the government of distraction.
Amit Shah Rebuts Priyanka Gandhi On Vande Mataram, Slams Nehru, Indira Gandhi
Countering Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's charge that the NDA government proposed a parliamentary discussion on Vande Mataram with an eye on West Bengal polls, Union Home Minister Amit Shah today said the song is not restricted to Bengal
Supreme Court rules CAA applicants cannot join electoral rolls before citizenship approval
The Supreme Court has made it clear that individuals seeking citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) cannot be treated as voters until their applications are officially approved. Hearing a petition that sought to include CAA applicants in West Bengals electoral rolls during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision, a bench headed by Chief Justice Surya [] The post Supreme Court rules CAA applicants cannot join electoral rolls before citizenship approval appeared first on India Legal .
West Bengal SIR: Nearly 50 Lakh Names Flagged for Deletion
Wave of anxiety among voters, state links 39 deaths to 'SIR panic'; TMC government announces compensation, block-level help camps from Dec 12.
Don't link Vande Mataram debate to West Bengal elections: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has defended the ongoing discussion on Vande Mataram. He stated the debate is always necessary and the slogan is not confined to West Bengal.
Supreme Court issues notice on demand for CAPF deployment in West Bengal
The Supreme Court has asked the Election Commission of India to file its response to a petition demanding that Central Armed Police Forces be deployed in West Bengal during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. The matter was taken up by a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, which noted that if [] The post Supreme Court issues notice on demand for CAPF deployment in West Bengal appeared first on India Legal .
SC raps states for non-cooperation in SIR exercise; asks ECI to flag instances of threats to BLOs
The Supreme Court on Tuesday took serious note of reports that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are being threatened and that the Election Commission of Indias (ECI) Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is being obstructed in West Bengal and several other states. Expressing concern over the lack of cooperation from some state administrations, the Court directed the ECI to immediately bring to its notice any instance where BLOs face intimidation or where officials encounter hurdles in carrying out the SIR exercise. If such matters are brought before us, we will pass appropriate orders, the Bench observed. The Court cautioned that failure to address the situation could cause anarchy, and urged the ECI to take firm steps to ensure the smooth conduct of the revision process. During the hearing, the ECI informed the Court that continued obstruction could compel it to take police personnel on deputation to ensure the safety of officials and the smooth conduct of the revision process. The Commission stressed that it possesses all constitutional powers necessary to address threats to BLOs and other staff engaged in the SIR exercise.
New feature toidentifyduplicate voters launched on BLO apps in West Bengal
At least 56lakh voters have been identified as dead, duplicate, untraceable and shifted in the State till now
Vande Mataram debate done with eye on Bengal poll, says TMC
In a fiery session in Parliament, Trinamool Congress slammed the government for allegedly using the 'Vande Mataram' discourse as a political distraction ahead of the West Bengal elections, branding it as a 'poorly executed farce.' MPs voiced their concerns over the BJP's 'polarizing' tactics, while Akhilesh Yadav from SP labelled their moves as 'nationally contentious.
BJP does not value contributions of Bengal icons: CM Mamata Banerjee
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of disrespecting national icons from Bengal. She criticized the party for opposing figures like Rabindranath Tagore and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Banerjee also raised concerns about flight cancellations and the hurried implementation of the SIR process.
'Four people, apart from Sunali, are still in Bangladesh'
In a determined move, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of West Bengal has urged the local police to be attentive and proactive. She issued a strong reminder against stigmatizing individuals who speak Bengali as Bangladeshis.
Muslims have right to build Babri Masjid, says JD(U) MP
In a spirited defense of West Bengal MLA Humayun Kabir's mosque foundation stone laying, JD(U) MP Kaushalendra Kumar asserted the importance of constitutional religious freedom. He clearly separated his party's stance from the BJP's condemnation of honoring historical figures like Babur, reiterating a commitment to constitutional values.
Man who threatened Siwan MP and Barharia MLA held in Bengal
On Monday, a construction worker was apprehended in West Bengal for allegedly issuing death threats to Siwan JD(U) MP Vijaylakshmi Kushwaha and MLA Inderdeo Patel over a demanded sum of Rs 10 lakh. The threats, made from Chennai on December 3, appear to be a misguided attempt at garnering attention.
'People Don't Want Me To Resign': Suspended Trinamool MLA Refuses To Quit
Suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir on Monday made a U-turn on his earlier stand, saying he would not resign from the West Bengal Assembly, days after laying the foundation stone of a Babri Masjid-style mosque in Murshidabad district.
Vande Mataram debate aimed at diverting attention: Opposition leaders
Some of them also claimed that the debate was started keeping in mind next year's West Bengal Assembly polls.
Priyanka Gandhi slams govt over Vande Mataram debate timing
New Delhi: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday said the government pushed for a debate on Vande Mataram as the West Bengal assembly polls were approaching and that it wanted to divert attention from the problems people were facing. Participating in a discussion in the Lok Sabha on 150 years of national song Vande 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 .
KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday accused the BJP-led Central Government of the ongoing flight disruptions across the country. She also said that the passengers could even go to court over the crisis. The Chief Minister made a scathing attack on the Centre this afternoon while speaking to the reporters at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport before leaving for an official visit to the north Bengal district Cooch Behar. She said the situation had escalated due to the Centres lack of proper planning. Passengers are facing immense difficulties because of the non-availability of flights every day, she said. I believe this situation has arisen due to a complete lack of planning. This is a disaster. The Centre is responsible for the entire crisis triggered by flight disruptions, Mamata alleged. The Central Government should have arranged alternatives earlier. I even feel passengers may go to court over this, she added. She said that after flight cancellations by IndiGo, passengers are being told to travel by other means of transport. How is that possible? A journey that takes two hours by air takes 24 to 36 hours by train. And then you need advance tickets and reservations. Overall, this has caused extreme hardship for travellers, she pointed out. According to her, the Central Government remains preoccupied with elections, instead of focusing on public welfare. The Centre always thinks of elections; we think about people. That is why we are deeply concerned about the suffering of passengers, she claimed. Passengers have been facing a gruelling experience at airports across the country over the last few days. IndiGo, which operates around 2,300 flights daily, is cancelling flights in hundreds as it struggles to secure adequate crew, with the second phase of the pilots' flight duty and rest period norms kicking in.
Tide Now Supports Over 1 Million Small Businesses in India
Gen Zs and millennials make up over 85% of Tide’s MSME community — a powerful reminder that young India is steering the country's entrepreneurial momentum Tier 2, 3, 4 and beyond cities driving growth with over 96% members (MSMEs) on the platform, from towns like Bareilly, Bhopal, Murshidabad, Lucknow and North 24 Parganas Tide , the UK’s leading business management platform, today announced that it has surpassed 1 million members (MSMEs) in India. This rapid growth reflects the deep trust that Indian small businesses — from nano to micro and emerging SMEs — have placed in Tide to simplify how they register, run and grow their businesses. The platform has doubled adoption since its launch in December 2022. India has emerged as Tide’s largest and fastest-growing market globally in member acquisition, showcasing the success of its India-first strategy and strong product-market fit. Gurjodhpal Singh, CEO, Tide in India, said, “ This milestone is more than a number — it’s a story of trust. In just under three years, one million Indian entrepreneurs have chosen Tide to be their partner in growth. This reflects our commitment to helping small businesses – who have been gravely underserved – save time and money by giving them business critical tools across finance, admin and related commercial services that they need, to grow. India is where some of Tide's most innovative products are being developed, creating strong use-cases to be implemented globally .” A trusted business partner for India’s entrepreneurs Tide’s success has always been rooted in scaling responsibly and delivering real-world impact. The company is doing so by building a unified, highly-connected digital platform that reduces the burden of business finance and admin. Over the past year, Tide has delivered product innovation at pace across India with products including: Bill Payments: SMEs in India can pay their utility bills with no extra costs and earn rewards. The product is backed by enhanced security. Udyam Registration: Enabling MSME registration and access to priority government benefits including low-interest loans, subsidies on electricity certifications, protection against delayed payments, etc. GST Registration: help obtain a Goods & Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN), enabling compliance, marketplace selling, input tax credit claims, and vendor trust. Scheme Discovery: Smart matching of government benefits and subsidies to business eligibility. Fixed Deposits Intermediation: Helping SMEs to earn competitive returns on their balances in a seamless and paperless experience. NCMC Card Integration: A single smart Tide card that doubles up as a national mobility card, accepted across multiple transport modes. Structured partners: Provides disbursement of funds to freelancers and vendors via a secure partner portal. Analytics on spending deliver real-time data so SMEs can make faster decisions about cashflow, a key pain point for SMEs. Tide’s member make-up Tide’s growth in India is being driven by a new generation of business owners, with over 85% (865,000) of its members under the age of 40, including 58% Gen Z and 42% millennials—reflecting the strong entrepreneurial momentum among India’s youth. And, with our oldest member at 95, simply proves that it’s never too late to do what you love. The platform is scaling rapidly across emerging business hubs, with 63% of its members from states such as Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Maharashtra, and a majority comprising small and micro entrepreneurs like local retailers, freelancers and service-led solopreneurs. With strong adoption in Tier 2, 3, 4 and beyond towns namely Bareilly, Bhopal, Murshidabad, Lucknow, North 24 Paraganas, Jaipur, Firozabad, Ghaziabad, Shahjahanpur and Kota — with not a single Tier 1 city in the top 10 — Tide is playing a significant role in enabling the digital transformation of India’s most underserved business communities. Championing entrepreneurs beyond business tools Tide believes progress happens when entrepreneurs are supported not only with products — but with recognition, access and ecosystem change. Women in Business mission: On track to bring 500,000 women entrepreneurs onto the platform by 2027. Tide’s Bharat Women Aspiration Index brings forth voices from beyond metros to shape better policies for women entrepreneurs across Tier 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 towns in India. Udaan Chronicles: Tide’s flagship mentoring roadshow, created to help small business owners in semi-urban and rural India, brings expert-led mentoring directly to entrepreneurs who lack access to formal networks and financial resources. UK-India collaboration: Enabling SME expansion across borders through industry delegation. Contributing to critical dialogue shaping future trade for small businesses under the provisions of the UK-India FTA. Tide’s progress in India is rooted in accountability and global investor backing. The company recently secured a $120 million strategic investment, in a funding round led by TPG. Tide is also deepening its long-term commitment to India — with a £500 million investment over the next five years, starting 2026. This investment underscores India’s role as a cornerstone of Tide’s global growth strategy, which will be used to fuel product innovation tailored for Indian SMEs, technology and AI-led development and expansion of Tide’s financial ecosystem — including payments, credit, and investment solutions. Tide’s strategy in India emphasises digital inclusion — to bring formal financial and business services to underserved entrepreneurs outside major metros, in smaller towns and rural clusters. This approach aligns with the Government of India’s efforts to formalise and digitise MSMEs and increase their access to credit, markets and exports. Among some of the exciting new features to be launched next year, include investments, acquiring, insurance, easy access to formal credit, banking services and advanced payment acceptance solutions. Tide is here to make managing business smoother and more successful. About Tide Launched in 2017, Tide is the leading business management platform in the UK. Tide helps SMEs save time (and money) in the running of their businesses by not only offering business accounts and related admin services, but also a comprehensive set of highly usable and connected administrative solutions from invoicing to accounting. Tide has nearly 800,000 SME members in the UK (14% market share) and 1,000,000 SMEs in India. Tide launched in Germany in May 2024 and in France in September 2025. Tide has also been recognised with the Great Place to Work certification three years in a row. Tide has been funded by Anthemis, Apax Digital Funds, Augmentum Fintech, Creandum, Salica Investments, Latitude, LocalGlobe, SBI Group, Speedinvest and TPG, amongst others. It employs more than 2,500 Tideans worldwide. Tide’s long-term ambition is to be the leading business management platform globally. www.linkedin.com/company/tide-banking twitter.com/TideBusinessIND www.instagram.com/tidebusinessindia/ www.facebook.com/TideBusinessIndia
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stated the government pushed for a Vande Mataram debate due to upcoming West Bengal polls. She accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of diverting attention from price rise and unemployment. Gandhi highlighted the song's history and Nehru's role.
Muslims have right to build Babri Masjid: JD(U) MP
Nalanda: JD(U) MP Kaushalendra Kumar on Monday defended Humayun Kabir, the West Bengal MLA who was suspended from his party, the Trinamool Congress, for laying foundation stone of Babri Masjid in Murshidabad district of the neighbouring state. The JD(U) leader shared his views while talking to journalists in his parliamentary constituency of Nalanda, which, incidentally, 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 .
ECI appoints five senior IAS officers as Special Roll Observers for SIR in West Bengal
An official at the CEOs office said the appointment of Special Roll Observers (SRO) would ensure enhanced scrutiny and transparency in the process
ECI appoints five more special roll observers in West Bengal
KOLKATA: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday appointed five more IAS officers as Special Roll Observers (SROs) to oversee the second phase of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in West Bengal. The second phase of the three-tier SIR process begins after the draft roll is published on 16 December. The five bureaucrats--Neeraj kumar Bansor (Home Affairs), Kumar Ravikant Singh (Defence), Alok Tiwari (Finance), Pankaj Yadav (Rural Development) and Krishna kumar Nirala (Information and Broadcasting)--in the rank of joint secretaries will look after SIR drive in five divisions like Midnapore, Presidency, Malda, Jalpaiguri and Bardhaman separately in the state. They will work as micro-observers. About 10 days ago, the national poll body had engaged Dr Subrata Gupta, retired IAS and former secretary of the Union Food Processing Ministry, as the SRO and 12 others serving IAS officers of Bengal cadre for the SIR in the state. All the SROs and 12 other IAS officers will work in coordination with the West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Agarwal in Kolkata. According to the ECI sources, the additional team of five new SROs have been engaged for the process in a bid to strengthen the second stage of the electoral roll revision process so that no genuine voter is deleted from the list and at the same time no dead, duplicate, absent and permanently shifted voter is included to the SIR list. This time, the national poll body wants the final voters list to be decisive and error-free. This stage involves the filing of claims and objections, along with the notice period for issuing, hearing, verifying and disposing of applications, all of which will be carried out simultaneously by the Electoral Registration Officers (EROs). Dr Gupta, along with 12 other IAS officers assigned earlier by the Commission, met the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar at ECI office in Delhi today and updated him about the progress of the SIR in the state. Almost all opposition parties have asked for micro observers to ensure there is no manipulation at this stage, sources in the CEOs office said, adding that the Commission had found merit in these concerns. Once the second stage is completed, the final version of the electoral roll will be published on 14 February. The announcement of dates for the West Bengal Assembly elections is expected shortly afterwards. Sources in the ECI said that around 55 lakh dead, duplicate, permanently shifted and absent voters have been deleted so far till Saturday. The Commission has identified around 24 lakh dead out the 55 lakh deleted voters. The national poll panel has also instructed electoral officers to intensify progeny mapping, after irregularities were found in parental details in the current voter rolls as of 27 October. The exercise compares parental information on the latest list with records from 2002, when the last SIR was conducted in the state.
West Bengal: Humayun Kabir Makes U-turn, Says Won't Quit As MLA
There is no question of my resignation now. I am not stepping down as MLA, Kabir told reporters
BJP MPs welcome PM Modi with Bengal next slogans in Lok Sabha after Bihar victory
BJP MPs in Lok Sabha greeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Bihar ki jeet hamari hai, ab Bengal ki baari hai as he entered to discuss 150 years of Vande Mataram. This slogan signifies the NDA's victory in Bihar assembly polls and their focus on upcoming West Bengal elections.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday blamed the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation for the recent IndiGo flight disruptions, alleging poor planning led to severe passenger inconvenience and suggesting affected travellers have the right to move court.
Mamata Banerjee welcomes Modi's Vande Mataram discussion in Lok Sabha
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative to discuss 'Vande Mataram' in the Lok Sabha. Her party has no objections to the discussion. Banerjee also raised concerns about some BJP leaders' perceived dislike for national figures like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi. She questioned their understanding of history and Bengal's contributions.
'This is a disaster': Mamata Banerjee targets BJP over IndiGo fiasco; cites passenger agony
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has slammed the Centre over IndiGo's ongoing flight crisis, calling it a disaster that has left thousands of passengers stranded. With hundreds of flights cancelled daily, the airline faces scrutiny from regulators and the judiciary. The Delhi High Court is set to hear a plea regarding the inhumane airport situation.
Over 5 lakh Waqf properties uploaded on UMEED portal, 2.16 lakh approved by deadline
NEW DELHI: A total of 5.17 lakh Waqf properties were initiated on the UMEED portal while 2,16,905 properties were approved by the designated approvers during the six-month window provided, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Minority Affairs. The UMEED Central Portal for management of Waqf Properties in India, launched by Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on June 6, 2025, officially closed for uploads on December 6, 2025, completing its six-month window, as per the UMEED Act, 1995 and the clear directions of the Supreme Court. In the final count, the momentum significantly accelerated as the deadline approached, the ministry said in a statement. Many review meetings, training workshops, and high-level interventions even at the secretary-level injected renewed pace into the process, making the upload surge in the last hours, it said. According to the data provided by the ministry, 5,17,040 Waqf properties were initiated on the portal with 2,16,905 properties approved by the designated approvers. A total of 2,13,941 properties have been submitted by makers and remain in the pipeline as of the deadline, the ministry said, adding that 10,869 properties stood rejected during verification To support this massive national exercise, the Ministry of Minority Affairs conducted continuous workshops and training sessions with State/UT Waqf Boards and Minority Departments, the statement said. A two-day master trainer workshop was also conducted in Delhi to equip Waqf Boards and State/UT officials with hands-on training for the uploading process, the ministry said. Senior technical and administrative teams were deputed across states, and seven zonal meetings were held nationwide. A dedicated helpline was also set up at the Ministry office for technical support and quick resolution of issues arising during the uploads. Since the launch of the portal, secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Chandra Shekhar Kumar took 20 plus review meetings, consistently guiding, motivating, and monitoring States/UTs to ensure timely and accurate uploading of existing Waqf property details, the statement said. The conclusion of this phase marks a significant milestone in bringing transparency, efficiency, and unified digital management to Waqf properties across India under the UMEED framework, it said. The highest number of Waqf properties initiated on the portal were from Uttar Pradesh (92,830 - 86,345 Sunni and 6,485 Shia), followed by Maharashtra (62,939) and Karnataka (58,328), while 23,086 properties were initiated from West Bengal. Rijiju on Friday had ruled out extending the deadline for registering Waqf properties on the UMEED portal but said his ministry, recognising the concerns of 'mutawallis' or caretakers, will not impose any penalty or take strict action for the next three months as a humanitarian and facilitative measure. The Centre launched The Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Act central portal on June 6 to create a digital inventory. According to the provisions of the portal, details of all registered Waqf properties across the country must be uploaded within six months. The six-month deadline for registration ended at 11:59:59 pm on December 6. The six-month deadline mandated under the Waqf Amendment Act cannot be extended due to the provisions of the Act, and clear directions of the Supreme Court, the minister had said. The government, through the Ministry of Minority Affairs, has said it is committed to modernising Waqf administration and unlocking the full developmental potential of Waqf properties for the benefit of minority communities.
Veteran Bengali actor Kalyan Chatterjee dies at 81
KOLKATA: Veteran Bengali actor Kalyan Chatterjee died at a government hospital here, West Bengal Motion Picture Artists Forum said in a statement on Monday. He was 81. Chatterjee, who had been suffering from typhoid along with age-related ailments, was under treatment at MR Bangur Super Speciality Hospital, where he breathed his last late Sunday night. The actor, who had acted in more than 400 films, mostly in supporting roles, debuted in Aponjon, which was released in 1968. Some of his notable films include Dhanyee Meye, Dui Prithibi, Sabuj Dwiper Raja and Baishe Srabon. He had worked in Satyajit Ray's Pratidwandi. Apart from Bengali films, he also worked in Hindi cinema, including Sujoy Ghosh's film Kahaani. The Artists Forum statement said, One of our most valued members, Kalyan Chattopadhyay, has left us. We are deeply shocked. May his soul rest in peace. Chattopadhyay had studied at Pune Film Institute. His contemporaries include Soumitra Chatterjee, Sabitri Chattopadhyay and Dipankar De.
WBSSC Group C and D recruitment 2025: The West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) closes the online application process today for 8,478 Group C and Group D posts under the 1st SLST-2025. Candidates must submit the form by 5:59 pm, while fee payment remains open until December 12, 2025. The recruitment includes vacancies for Clerks, Librarians and Group D staff across multiple regions and mediums. Eligibility, salary details and exam dates have been issued, and applications can be submitted through the official website.
West Bengal Govts assurances, work on testing Labs for Tea industry not progressing
Producers facing quality issues quality issues as competition from Sri Lanka gets stiffer By Ashis Biswas KOLKATA: Despite official assurances to set up at least three tea testing laboratories in North Bengal to improve quality control methods, preliminary work undertaken by the West Bengal Government has made little progress. North Bengal tea producers recently [] The post West Bengal Govts assurances, work on testing Labs for Tea industry not progressing appeared first on Northlines .
Insider track | Russian folk tune and Indian link
At the Rashtrapati Bhavan state dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu for Vladimir Putin, the Rashtrapati Bhavan Naval Band brought an unexpectedly cheerful moment by playing Kalinka. This famous Russian folk tune, composed by Ivan Larionov in 1860, often appears at diplomatic events as its lively rhythm travels easily across borders. For Indian audiences, the melody also carries a familiar warmth due to its Hindi adaptation, Darling, in 7 Khoon Maaf, sung by Usha Uthup. That connection may explain why it is instantly popular here. Kalinka has appeared at many multilateral gatherings, from BRICS to the SCO summit in Tianjin, where cameras caught it playing as Putin met Xi Jinping. It is not an official anthem, but it is clearly a tune with global stamina. TMCCongress tussle Inside the Trinamool Congress, there is near-total clarity: an alliance with the Congress for next years West Bengal Assembly polls looks unlikely. Despite polite public gestures, the relationship is visibly strained. TMC insiders cite a recent example to show their frustration. While the Congress criticised the electoral roll revision, it failed to provide even one Booth Level Agent when the TMC asked for help with BLOs and objecting to deletions or suspected manipulation. For TMC leaders, this confirms their belief that Congress has virtually no organisational presence in Bengal. As one insider put it, if Congress cannot provide BLAs, why consider them for a pact? For now, the TMC is confident it can win on its own. Polls are month away, but for now the TMC is firm that it doesnt need the Congress in Bengal. Naddas personal touch for TB end It is routine for a health minister to brief parliamentarians on major health concerns. JP Nadda, however, has added an unusual personal layer. He is determined to foster a united political push for a TB-Mukt Bharat and is meeting MPs state by state to build support. The latest WHO report notes a decline in TB cases and deaths, but India still ranks among the eight countries contributing 67% of global cases in 2024. India aims to eliminate TB by 2025. Nadda has already spoken with MPs from large states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar. He is now reaching out to MPs from smaller states. Naddas personal touch may well spur MPs to turn the TB-free India mission into a true jan andolan. For Congress, after RJD, its SP After the Bihar election setback strained its ties with the RJD, the Congress now seems to be drifting apart from another ally, the Samajwadi Party (SP) in Uttar Pradesh. In Parliaments Winter Session, the SP stayed away from the Special Intensive Revision of voter rolls on the second day of the session. Behind the scenes, MPs from both parties blame each other for widening the gap. One SP functionary was overheard saying the party is not interested in an alliance with Congress for the upcoming panchayat elections. Leaders on both sides quietly admit the gap is growing and is now harder to ignore. Navneet Sehgals exit raises eyebrows Navneet Kumar Sehgal arrived at Prasar Bharati in the morning as chairman and, by afternoon, had resigned in a cloud of mystery. He spent the early hours having coffee, attending meetings and smiling through routine interactions, but by late afternoon, his resignation letter lay on the table. The suddenness left bureaucrats stunned. Sehgal, a retired UP-cadre IAS officer known for maintaining good equations with every governmentSP, BSP, BJPseemingly hit an unexpected eject button. Some insiders whisper that a few old friends triggered an online storm that made his position uncomfortable, while others speculate he may be headed toward something bigger and less tied to Doordarshan. For now, only CEO Gaurav Dwivedi knows what unfolded, and he isnt saying a word.
Humayun Kabir eyes tie-up with AIMIM for West Bengal polls
In a bold political maneuver, suspended Trinamool MLA Humayun Kabir is teaming up with AIMIM as West Bengal gears up for its assembly elections. Kabir has initiated talks with AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, with hopes of jointly contesting 135 seats. This collaboration could significantly sway the Muslim vote in the region.
Bengal to add 9,000 booths; digitisation nears finish
West Bengal is embarking on an ambitious plan to add around 9,000 new polling booths, a significant move prompted by the Election Commission of India's recent directive for booth rationalisation. This initiative specifically targets urban areas where large housing complexes exist, ensuring easier access for voters. Additionally, the digitisation of enumeration forms is rapidly approaching completion.
Bangladesh delegation to visit India for Vijay Diwas celebrations on Dec 1516
India prepares for Vijay Diwas celebrations honoring the 1971 War victory. A 20-member delegation from Bangladesh, including army officers and Mukti Yoddhas, will attend events in West Bengal. The Eastern Command's Vijay Rally concluded, marking the start of these commemorations. Celebrations include a Military Tattoo and wreath-laying ceremonies.
Rajnath Singh inaugurates record 125 BRO projects in Ladakh
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday described Operation Sindoor as a historic success, crediting the missions scale and efficiency to Indias rapidly strengthened border connectivity. Singh, who was in Ladakh to inaugurate 125 strategically significant infrastructure projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) the highest number ever launched simultaneously, said the forces exercised restraint despite having the capability to go further. Speaking about the counter-operation launched after the Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said, Our Armed Forces launched the operation in response to the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Everybody knows what befell those terrorists. We could have done much more, but our forces, demonstrating both courage and patience, did only what was necessary. The success of the operation was made possible by seamless logistics and uninterrupted connectivity to forward areas. The projects inaugurated on Sunday span two Union Territories Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir and seven states: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Mizoram. They include 28 roads, 93 bridges and four miscellaneous facilities, collectively built at an estimated cost of Rs 5,000 crore, marking the highest-value set of inaugurations in BROs history. As first reported by The New Indian Express , the assets represent a major boost to Indias border infrastructure push. These upgraded roads and bridges are expected to significantly enhance last-mile connectivity to remote villages and forward military posts, helping integrate these areas more closely into the national mainstream. The main event was held on the DarbukShyokDaulat Beg Oldie road at the newly completed Shyok Tunnel, one of the marquee projects unveiled by the minister. Calling the tunnel an engineering feat built in one of the worlds toughest terrains, Singh said the 920-metre cut-and-cover structure will ensure all-weather access to a strategically vital region frequently cut off by heavy snowfall, avalanches and extreme temperatures. The tunnel, he said, will boost mobility, security and rapid deployment capability, especially during harsh winters. Singh also virtually inaugurated the Galwan War Memorial in Ladakh, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. Reaffirming the governments commitment to developing border regions, the Defence Minister said robust connectivity acts as a lifeline for security, economic growth and disaster management. There are numerous benefits of strong border infrastructure. It enables military mobility, smooth transport of logistics, increased tourism and employment opportunities, and most importantly greater public faith in development, democracy and the government, he said. He noted that the BRO spent a record Rs 16,690 crore in 202425 and has been set a target of Rs 18,700 crore for 202526. In the past two years alone, 356 BRO projects have been dedicated to the nation, underscoring the agencys capability to operate in high-altitude, snowbound, desert, flood-prone and forested terrain. The Union Budget 202526 has raised the BROs allocation from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 7,146 crore, reflecting its expanding role in national security and development.
Locals Pool In Money, Build A Bridge Called 'Gorkhaland' Near Darjeeling
Without government funding, residents contributed whatever amount they could to a common poll and built a bridge over Tungsung Khola, connecting Tungsung tea estate with Dhotrey valley near West Bengal's Darjeeling.
Severe cold grips north India; IMD warns of cold wave, fog across multiple states
NEW DELHI: Cold conditions prevailed across north India on Sunday, with the Amarnath yatra base camp being the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir at minus 4.3 degrees Celsius and parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan reporting minimum temperatures between three and seven degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said cold wave conditions were very likely to prevail in isolated pockets over Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha on Monday and Tuesday. In Delhi, the minimum temperature was recorded at eight degrees, up from 6.8 degrees a day ago and yet 1.6 notches below normal. The maximum temperature was 24.7 degrees Celsius, 0.1 notch below normal, while the relative humidity was 92 per cent in the morning. For Monday, the weather department forecast a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius, with mist expected. Pollution levels in Delhi remained in the very poor category on Sunday, prolonging the spell of toxic air that has hung over its residents for several weeks now. The city logged a 24-hour average AQI of 308. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 0 and 50 is classified good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor and 401 and 500 severe. Further in the north, the night temperatures in Kashmir rose by several degrees but stayed below the freezing point, officials said. The Pahalgam resort in south Kashmir, which serves as the base camp for the annual Amarnath yatra, was the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir as the minimum settled at a low of minus 4.3 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature in Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- settled at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius, a rise of 3.2 degrees compared to the previous night. The gateway town to the valley, Qazigund, recorded a low of minus one degree Celsius, while the minimum settled at minus 0.8 degree Celsius in north Kashmir's Kupwara, and 1.1 degrees Celsius in south Kashmir's Kokernag, according to officials. The meteorological department said the weather would remain generally cloudy but dry on Sunday, and a brief spell of light snowfall at isolated places in the higher reaches of north and central Kashmir is likely on December 8. In Himachal Pradesh, The IMD predicted dense fog in parts of the state until Wednesday. A yellow alert for dense fog was also issued in parts of the reservoir area of the Bhakra dam in Bilaspur district and over some parts of the Balh valley in Mandi district during early morning till Monday. In Punjab, Faridkot remained the coldest place, with the minimum temperature settling at 4.4 degrees Celsius, while in Haryana, Narnaul saw the lowest temperature at 4.6 degrees Celsius, according to the local meteorological department. Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, recorded a minimum temperature of 8.2 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, Bathinda and Gurdaspur recorded a minimum temperature of 4.6 degrees Celsius, while Ferozepur recorded 6 degrees, Amritsar 6.1 degrees, Ludhiana 6.8 degrees, and Patiala 8.9 degrees. In Haryana, Bhiwani recorded a low of six degrees, Hisar 6.2 degrees, Sirsa 6.6 degrees, Karnal seven degrees, Rohtak 7.8 degrees, and Ambala 9.8 degrees. Rajasthan, similarly, reeled under intense cold, the Meteorological Centre here said. Fatehpur in the Sikar district continued to record the lowest minimum temperature, albeit at 3.5 degrees Celsius, slightly up from 2.3 degrees a day ago. According to the weather department, Lunkaransar (Bikaner) recorded a low of 5 degrees Celsius, followed by Dausa at 6 degrees, Churu at 6.3 degrees, Vanasthali (Tonk) at 6.4 degrees and Jhunjhunu at 7.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning. The department said a fresh but weak western disturbance is likely to cause partly cloudy skies in some parts of the state over the next few days. Under its influence, the minimum temperature is expected to rise by two to three degrees Celsius, providing relief from the cold wave, it said. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, eight districts recorded minimum temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, noting a cold wave in parts of the state. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 3.5 degrees Celsius up from three degrees Celsius while Khunti logged five degrees Celsius, the IMD weather bulletin stated. The minimum temperature in Jharkhand's capital, Ranchi, was 7.5 degrees Celsius, while Daltonganj recorded 6.5 degrees and Jamshedpur recorded 9.6 degrees Celsius. Deputy Director of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, Abhishek Anand, said, North-westerly winds prevailing in the lower tropospheric levels over Jharkhand have caused the drop in mercury. Dry weather conditions are likely to prevail across the state over the next five days.The minimum temperature may rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius during the next 72 hours, he added. In West Bengal, the mercury dipped below the 10-degree mark for the first time this winter in the state's plains with Sriniketan in Birbhum districts recording a minimum temperature of 9.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, the IMD said. Its forecast for West Bengal suggested dry weather across all districts of West Bengal for the next week, with shallow to moderate fog likely in the northern districts. Darjeeling was the coldest in the hills at 6.2 degrees Celsius, while the other Himalayan tourist town of Kalimpong was warmer at 10.5 degrees Celsius. The other places which recorded low night temperatures are Alipurduar (11 degrees), Kalyani (11.4 degrees), Purulia (11.4 degrees) and Panagarh (11.9 degrees). Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 15.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, forecasting mist in the morning on Monday. IMD further predicted dense fog conditions in isolated pockets of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura between December 8 and 12. It was also very likely in parts of west Madhya Pradesh on Monday and in Odisha until Tuesday. In west India, a gradual fall by two to three degrees over the next three-four days is expected, and no significant change is anticipated thereafter, the IMD said.
'Babri Masjid' foundation, Gita recital in WB trigger political uproar over 'religious polarisation'
KOLKATA: Despite charges of large scale corruptions levelled against the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal, politics of religious polarisation is likely to feature prominently in the upcoming Assembly polls in the state. The suspended rebel Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir on Friday laid the foundation stone of a Babri Masjid in Beldanga of Murshidabad district and threatened to float a new political platform for Muslims to contest 90 out of total 294 assembly seats in the forthcoming assembly polls. Political observers felt that Kabir attempted to engineer a new political narrative among Muslims, who form over 30 per cent of Bengal voters and traditionally vote for Trinamool Congress since the party to power in 2011. Fearing a possible erosion in the majority Hindu vote bank in favour of the Trinamool Congress, the party supremo as well as the chief minister Mamata Banerjee suspended Kabir for his anti-party activities mainly communal statements ahead of the elections. Suspended Trinamool MLA Humayun Kabir to float new party in alliance with AIMIM On Sunday, Bengal witnessed a massive Bhagavad Gita recital at Brigade Parade ground where the Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose was present triggering controversy. While addressing the programme, Bose asserted that the state was eady to end religious arrogance, referring to something witnessed in Murshidabad a day before. Addressing a Gita recital at Brigade Parade Ground here, he said that the state is also ready to end corruption. Senior BJP leaders such as former state chiefs Sukanta Majumdar, Dilip Ghosh, Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, ex-MP Locket Chatterjee and MLA Agnimitra Paul, along with religious figures including Swami Pradiptananda Maharaj, popularly known as Kartik Maharaj, Sadhvi Ritambhara and Dhirendra Shastri, joined the programme. Christened Panch Lakkho Konthe Gita Path (Gita chanting by five lakh voices), the event has been put together by the Sanatan Sanskriti Sansad, a collective of monks and spiritual leaders representing multiple monasteries and Hindu institutions. The organisers say the effort aims to highlight Bengals spiritual heritage and build social harmony through shared recitation. Paul said, The Gita is not for Hindus alone, it is for all 140 crore people of India. In his address, Kartik Maharaj noted the current social mood. In a climate of division, spiritual practice can restore calm and direction, he said, adding that thousands from across the state had pledged participation. To manage the turnout, organisers have arranged extensive crowd regulation, stepped-up security, and emergency medical services. Three large stages have been built across the expanse of Brigade, and security presence has increased across central Kolkata. Swami Gyananandaji Maharaj of the Geeta Manishi Mahamandal is leading the spiritual component of the gathering, while yoga guru Baba Ramdev and several noted monks have been invited. Exactly two years ago, a one lakh voices Gita chanting event ahead of the Lok Sabha elections sparked a political confrontation, with the ruling TMC accusing the BJP of using religion as a tool for polarisation.
Suspended Trinamool MLA Humayun Kabir to float new party in alliance with AIMIM
KOLKATA: Suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir, on Sunday said that his proposed new political platform would make an electoral alliance with the Hyderabad-based All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) of Asaduddin Owaisi. Kabir has also invited the CPI-M, Congress and West Bengal-based Indian Secular Front (ISF) of Nawsad Siddiqui to join the alliance to fight against both BJP at the Centre and ruling Trinamool Congress in the state. A day after laying the foundation stone of a mosque modelled after the Babri Masjid of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh at Beldanga in Murshidabad on Saturday, Kabir told media, I wont resign as a legislator now. I will announce the name of my new party 22 December and a state conference of the new platform will also be held in Behrampore, Murshidabad. My party will ally with the Asaduddin Owaisis All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) and I have already discussed the issue with Owaisi saheb. He has asked me to come to Hyderabad for further talks. Alliance with the AIMIM is confirmed. I also welcome ISF and CPI-M and Congress also so that we can rout the BJP at the Centre and Bengal chief minister who is influenced by RSS together. Rubbishing Kabirs proposal for an electoral understanding with the Left, the CPI-M leadership said there is no question of making any alliance with those whose agenda is only mandir and masjid, not development issues. TMC suspends Humayun Kabir for plan to build 'Babri Masjid' in Murshidabad; MLA to form new party Traditionally, minorities in Bengal have aligned themselves with mainstream parties, unlike states such as Telangana and Assam, where minority-based parties AIMIM and Badruddin Ajmals All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) have emerged. Though such attempts were made by Mamata Banerjee's current cabinet colleague Siddiqullah Chowdhury, through his outfit Jamait Ulama E-Hind, these weren't not successful. Very recently, Nawsad Siddique's ISF tried to craft its space among minorities, but had to join hands with the Congress and the CPM for the lone seat it won in 2021. Suspended from Trinamool Congress on Friday on charge of making communal statements violating the party rules Kabir a Congress and BJP turncoat immediately made the announcement of floating a new political party catering to Muslims. People of Murshidabad had voted Kabir to win assembly polls in 2021 because they trust Mamata Banerjee for her good governance not him. Our party has suspended him and now its his lookout to take decision on what he will do in coming days, said Sashi Panja, Bengal industry minister. To counter the massive Bhagavad Geetha recital at Brigade Parade ground he also announce to organise a Koran recital programme during February next year where one lakh people will gather.
Defence Minister dedicates 125 BRO projects to nation
These projects built at a cost of 5,000 crore and spread across the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, and seven States including Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Mizoram consisted of 28 roads, 93 bridges and four miscellaneous works
Ahead of West Bengal elections, scheduled for 2026, Ex-Trinamool MLA Humayun Kabir has issued a warning of to the party claiming that their 'Muslim Vote' bank is finished. He also vowed that CM Mamata Banerjee will not return to power for the fourth time. Humayun Kabir was suspended from the party a
After Bihar win, BJP next in line for power in Tamil Nadu & West Bengal: Amit Shah
Rahul Baba is still finding faults with EVMs or electoral rolls. Rahul Baba, neither are the EVMs faulty nor is there anything wrong with the electoral rolls:, Shah said
Mamata trying to split votes on religious lines: Union min Sukanta Majumdar
Kolkata: Union minister Sukanta Majumdar on Sunday accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of fostering communal polarisation in the state to split votes on religious lines. The former BJP state chief alleged that the TMC government has encouraged fanatic and communal forces ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. Speaking on the sidelines of a 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 .
Trinamool's Muslim Vote Bank Will Be Finished: Suspended MLA Humayun Kabir's Warning
Suspended by Trinamool after his proposal to build a replica of the Babri Masjid in West Bengal's Murshidabad, MLA Humayun Kabir has vowed not to let Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee return to power for a fourth time next year.
Bengal SIR: ECI stresses on minute progeny mapping
Kolkata: With the digitisation of enumeration forms in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal almost nearing conclusion, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed the electoral officers in the state to focus on minute progeny mapping amid serious flaws being detected with regards to the parents identities in the current voters 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 .
Rajnath Singh to unveil 125 BRO infrastructure projects in key areas
NEW DELHI: In a major push to strengthen Indias border infrastructure, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will inaugurate and dedicate 125 strategically important projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) on Sunday from the Shyok Tunnel in Ladakh. Sources said these vital projects that the minister will unveil cover 28 roads, 93 bridges, and four miscellaneous strategic facilities across seven states and two Union Territories, including Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Mizoram. Showcasing Indias engineering and technological advancements, the event will highlight the 920-metre Cut and Cover Shyok Tunnel, which ensures uninterrupted movement of troops and civilians through landslide- and avalanche-prone terrain. The 3D-printed Himank Air Dispatch (HAD) Unit Complex in Chandigarh also highlights the countrys innovation in modern defence infrastructure. These projects mark a major milestone in enhancing operational preparedness, troop mobility, and socio-economic development in some of the most remote and challenging regions of the country, officials said. BROs achievements demonstrate its capability to operate across high-altitude, snowbound, desert, flood-prone, and dense forest terrains, while improving last-mile connectivity to remote villages, forward military posts, and strategic locations. Notable road projects include the Sela-Chabrela-BJG and Shungester-Sulula Roads in Arunachal Pradesh, the KalepGaigong Road in Sikkim, and connectivity works in Mizoram along the LawngtlaiDiltlangParva axis. Bridges such as Lumla I & II, Shungetsar I & II, Rabam Chu, and Tuichanglui enhance logistics and access across critical border stretches. Officials pointed out these projects are some of the toughest terrains and it is uphill task. Raised in 1960, BRO has an authorized strength of 41,600 personnel, including 2,426 officers and 39,174 subordinates, and continues to be the preferred agency for MHA, MEA, and MoRTH for projects in challenging terrains. Over the past two years, BRO has dedicated 356 infrastructure projects, with its budget increased from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 7,146 crore in recognition of its strategic contribution. Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of BRO, lauded the dedication and professionalism of officers, supervisors, and labourers. Upholding its motto, Shramena Sarvam Sadhyam Everything is achievable through hard work, BRO continues to play a pivotal role in national security, strategic connectivity, and socio-economic development, linking Indias remotest and most strategically vital regions to mainstream.
Maharashtra Minister Refers To Mamata Banerjee As Terrorist
Alleging large-scale irregularities, Mr. Lodha claimed that over 10 centres had been set up in each district bordering Bangladesh in West Bengal to issue bogus birth certificates to illegal immigrants.
Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev declared those who glorify Mughal ruler Babar as traitors to India. This statement follows suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir laying the foundation stone for a Babri Masjid in Murshidabad, West Bengal. Kabir asserted his constitutional right to build the mosque, citing provisions for places of worship.
Chowringhee assembly seat in Kolkata records highest number of 'uncollectable' enumeration forms
KOLKATA: Chowringhee Assembly constituency in Kolkata has recorded the highest number of uncollectable enumeration forms (EFs) in West Bengal at 71,505, while Jorashanko comes next with 67,578 till Friday night. The abnormally high number of such forms in assembly areas such as Chowringhee, Jorashanko, Kolkata Port, Ballygunj and Bhawanipore, where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had contested in a bypoll in 2021 and won, has raised the eyebrows of Election Commission of India (ECI) officials. The prime reasons for enumeration forms being deemed uncollectable are categorized as ASDD (absent, shifted, dead and duplicate), indicating individuals who are dead, permanently shifted to different location or constituency, untraceable or absent and duplicates who are found to be enrolled in multiple polling stations or have fake entries. The forms are thus not collected by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during the ongoing door-to-door exercise of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjees assembly constituency records 41,495 'uncollectable' SIR forms: ECI EC data indicated that a total of more than 55 lakh voters belonging to the ASDD category have been identified across the state till Friday night. The figure may shoot up further. Sources said that according to figures available so far, the number of dead voters in the state was about 24 lakh till Friday. The data of dead persons would be available from Janmo Mrityu Tathya/ Registrar General on Births and Deaths and cancellation of ration cards on deaths. Election Registration Officers (EROs) should verify the entries, if any, made by BLOs, for all such cases. Sources also said that the identification of so many dead, shifted, absent and duplicate voters in the existing electoral rolls indicated that annual revision of rolls had not been carried out thoroughly in the state over the years.
Around 7.62 crore enumeration forms digitised in West Bengal since SIR launch: EC
West Bengal has digitized over 7.62 crore enumeration forms for its electoral roll revision. This significant progress was achieved over a month after the special intensive revision process began. The state now ranks eighth among other states and Union Territories in this digitization effort. The process is crucial for the upcoming 2026 assembly polls.
West Bengal CM assures to fight against political forces fanning 'flames of communal hatred'
KOLKATA: The West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, while observing Samhati Diwas on Saturday, appealed to people to maintain peace and integrity. She vowed to continue her fight against those political forces who are fanning the flames of communal hatred and playing a destructive game against the nation. Mamatas appeal for communal harmony come at a time when the State braced for a tense situation after the suspended rebel and Trinamool Congress MLA Hymayun Kabir laid the foundation stone of a Babri Masjid-style mosque at Mirzapur in the Beldanga area of Murshidabad district. The locality is one among the communally vulnerable districts in the state. Ex-TMC MLA lays foundation stone for mosque modelled on Babri Masjid in Murshidabad amid tight security TMC suspends Humayun Kabir for plan to build 'Babri Masjid' in Murshidabad; MLA to form new party She said that her government is committed to protecting the ideals and principles of the Constitution of India. The soil of Bengal is the soil of unity. Its the land of Rabindranath, the land of Nazrul (Islam) and the land of Ramakrishna and Vivekananda, and this land has never been cowed down by any divisive force and nor will it ever do so in the days to come, the Bengal chief minister said on X post. We know how to walk shoulder to shoulder in Bengal-the land of Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Jains and Buddhists, she said. In Beldanga, massive security arrangements were made in order to avoid any untoward incident prompted by communal tension. A huge contingent of RAF companies, state police units and central forces has been deployed along both sides of National Highway 12 after the Calcutta High Court on Friday declined to stall the event and placed full responsibility for public order on the state government. Governor C. V. Ananda Bose urged citizens not to be influenced by provocative statements and rumours and asked the State to ensure no disturbance anywhere. The ruling TMC suspended Kabir, who was once with Congress and then BJP, and later in TMC, on Thursday, on charges of his 'communal politics' that go against the party's stance. His suspension for what the party termed communal politics has given the event an added political edge. Two clerics from Saudi Arabia and others, mainly belonging to minority communities across the state and even outside, attended the event. Seven catering agencies from Murshidabad were engaged to prepare shahi biryani, with an estimated 40,000 packets for attendees and another 20,000 for residents. A close aide estimated food expenses at over Rs 30 lakh, with the total cost of the venue approaching Rs 70 lakh. Across the State, the ruling party observed Samhati Diwas (Unity Day) with rallies promoting communal harmony. The government has declared a holiday, presenting a message of restraint. The CPI-M-led Left Front also observed the day as Black Day, marking the demolitions anniversary and underscoring its continued political weight. Left Front brought out a communal harmony march in the city this afternoon.
The Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) has criticized suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir's plan to name a new mosque in West Bengal after Babur, calling it a politically motivated act that undermines the sacred purpose of worship.
Suspended Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislator Humayun Kabir on Saturday laid the foundation stone for a mosque modelled on the Babri Masjid in West Bengal's Murshidabad district, on the anniversary of the 16th-century religious structure's violent demolition by a Hindutva mob in 1992. Kabir, who had announced the foundation-laying ceremony earlier this month, cut a ceremonial ribbon alongside visiting clerics while slogans of Nara-e-Takbeer, Allahu Akbar were raised at the venue in Beldanga, where thousands had gathered since morning, reported PTI. The site of the ceremony was sealed into a high-security grid, with deployment of the RAF, district police, and central forces on both sides of the National Highway 12, after the Calcutta High Court declined to halt the event. Refusing to intervene in the event or the construction of the mosque, Calcutta HC on Friday directed that the responsibility of maintenance of law and order during the ceremony would rest with the state government. Kabir, who has hogged the limelight in the past with controversial statements on matters, including the party's internal affairs, was suspended by the TMC on Thursday for indulging in what it termed communal politics. The suspended leader subsequently announced his decision to resign as MLA and launch his own party later this month. (With inputs from PTI)
Special SIR camp for sex workers in Kolkatas red-light area on Dec 9
Kolkata: The West Bengal CEOs office is set to launch a camp on December 9 at Sonagachi, Asias largest red-light district, to aid sex workers in filling up enumeration forms as part of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, an official said on Saturday. This initiative comes as a response to concerns 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 .
Suspended TMC MLA lays foundation stone for Babri Masjid-style mosque in Bengal
Baharampur: Suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir on Saturday laid the foundation stone for a mosque modelled on Ayodhyas Babri Masjid at Rejinagar in West Bengals Murshidabad district, amid tight security arrangements. Kabir cut a ceremonial ribbon alongside visiting clerics on the dais as slogans of Nara-e-Takbeer, Allahu Akbar were raised at the venue, 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 .
BJPTMC clash intensifies over Humayun Kabirs Babri Masjid-style mosque project in Murshidabad
West Bengal faces political turmoil as MLA Humayun Kabir plans to lay the foundation for a 'Babri Masjid-style' mosque in Murshidabad. The BJP accuses the TMC of polarizing voters, while the ruling party dismisses the charge, alleging Kabir is acting with the BJP. Security has been heightened across the district for the event.
Cold wave grips north, east India; Kolkata records seasons lowest, Kashmir below freezing point
Residents across parts of north and eastern India woke up to biting cold on Saturday, with temperatures dipping well below normal, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). In Kolkata, the mercury plunged to 14.5 degrees Celsius, the coldest morning this season and 2.1 degrees below normal. The maximum temperature in the city is expected to hover around 26 degrees Celsius, with misty and foggy conditions likely in the evening. Other parts of Gangetic West Bengal are also experiencing a gradual temperature drop, which IMD forecasts will continue over the next 24 hours. Cold wave conditions gripped Jharkhand, with Gumla recording the states lowest temperature at 3 degrees Celsius. A yellow alert for cold wave has been issued for 11 districts including Garhwa, Palamu, Chatra, Lohardaga, Simdega, Ranchi, Ramgarh, Bokaro, Khunti, Latehar, and Gumla till 8.30 am on Sunday. Minimum temperatures ranged from 3 degrees in Gumla to 10.1 degrees in Ranchi, with north-westerly winds contributing to the fall in mercury. Officials expect temperatures to drop by up to 2 degrees more over the next 48 hours before rising slightly. Meanwhile, in Kashmir, night temperatures plunged well below the freezing point, with Srinagar recording a low of minus 4.1 degrees Celsius. Shopian was the coldest place at minus 6.4 degrees, followed by Pahalgam at minus 4.4 degrees. Other towns such as Qazigund, Kupwara, Kokernag, Gulmarg, and Konibal recorded minimums ranging from minus 0.2 to minus 5.2 degrees. A thick layer of fog engulfed parts of the valley, and the meteorological department has forecast generally cloudy but dry weather on December 6-7, with light snowfall at isolated higher reaches possible on December 8. No respite from toxic air in Delhi The air quality in the national capital remained in the 'very poor' category on Saturday morning, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 9 am settled at 335. According to the Central Pollution Control Board Sameer App, 36 monitoring stations across the capital also reported very poor air, with Mundka recording the worst levels at 387. According to the CPCB, an AQI between 0 and 50 is classified good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, and 401 and 500 severe. Delhi's air quality has swung sharply through the week, the city recorded an AQI of 279 on Sunday, 304 on Monday, rose sharply to 372 on Tuesday, and stood at 342 on Wednesday. The city's AQI remained in the very poor category on Thursday with a reading of 304, and 327 on Friday. Meanwhile, the minimum temperature settled at 6.8 degree Celsius, 2.7 degree Celsius below normal, with morning humidity at 95 per cent. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum temperature may reach 24 degree Celsius under a partly cloudy sky. (With inputs from PTI)
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar's name included in World Book of Records for taking oath for 10th time
PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is set to get global recognition as World Book of Records (WBR), London has listed his name for being the only individual to be sworn-in as chief minister of any state in independent India for 10th time. WBR congratulated Nitish for taking the oath of office as chief minister of Bihar for a record 10th time. In its congratulatory letter, WBR said that from 1947 to 2025, Nitish is the only individual to take the oath ten times. The milestone has set a benchmark in the countrys democratic system, reflecting rare continuity of leadership. It signifies his commitment, visionary leadership and unwavering trust of people of Bihar. Leading a state for ten times is not a remarkable personal achievement but also a moment of honour for entire country, WBR letter said. The letter pointed out that Nitishs consistent efforts in governance, development, social welfare and maintaining administrative stability has inspired millions of people across the country and will continue to motivate both present and future generations. As a mark of rare achievement, Nitishs name has been included in the list of WBR. The organisation will provide an official certificate acknowledging his record-setting milestone. On December 20, Nitish took the oath of office as CM along with 26 ministers. Reacting to WBRs initiative to list Nitishs name in its global list, Janata Dal (United) MLC and spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said that it was a moment of pride not only for Bihar but for the entire nation. This is recognition to Nitishs relentless efforts and vision for Bihars development. It will inspire workers of JD(U) who have been the backbone of the partys achievements, Neeraj said, adding that Nitish became the longest serving CM of Bihar as well. The list of other longest serving chief ministers includes Pawan Kumar Chamling (Sikkim), who served over 24 years, 5 months, and 14 days, followed by Naveen Patnaik (Odisha) with over 24 years and Gegong Apang (Arunachal Pradesh) for 22 years. Jyoti Basu (West Bengal) severed for 23 years. M Karunanidhi (Tamil Nadu) had the most terms and longest days across several stints. Lal Thanhawla (Mizoram) and Virbhandra Singh (Himachal Pradesh) served for nearly 22 and 21 years, respectively. WBR, London is a leading international institution dedicated to identifying, certifying and documenting extraordinary world records and outstanding achievements. The organisation honours eminent personalities, institutions, and historically significant sites worldwide for their contributions, impact and cultural heritage value.
BAHARAMPUR: West Bengal braces for a politically fraught Saturday as suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir pushes ahead with the foundation-laying ceremony for a 'Babri Masjid-style' mosque in Murshidabad, triggering high alert and sharpened political messaging on a date laden with communal sensitivities. The Beldanga site, where Kabir claimed hree lakh people would assemble, has been sealed into a high-security grid, with deployment of RAF, district police, and central forces on both sides of the National Highway 12, after the Calcutta High Court declined to halt the event but placed full responsibility for public order on the state government. The proposed mosque, which Kabir has repeatedly described as being modelled on the Babri Masjid, has stirred political unease in a district where symbolism and mobilisation often feed off each other. For the TMC- which has distanced itself after suspending Kabir- the optics of the foundation-laying ceremony for the mosque on December 6, the anniversary of Ayodhya's Babri Masjid demolition, carry risks it has sought to pre-empt. The run-up to the proposed event has forced the administration to arrange for expansive security cover. RAF teams arrived in Rejinagar on Friday and were stationed at a local school ahead of deployment, while the district police - acting on a Calcutta High Court directive to ensure law and order - have drawn up a security grid covering Beldanga, Raninagar and all approach roads to NH-12, the states only north-south arterial highway. A senior officer said nearly 3,000 personnel would be deployed throughout the day, with multiple diversion plans ready if turnout threatens to choke the highway. On Friday, the high court, hearing a petition seeking to halt the event, declined to intervene and placed the onus of maintaining public order on the state government, a cue that prompted the police to talk with Kabirs team via backchannel on Friday night. Governor C V Ananda Bose, meanwhile, urged citizens not to be swayed by provocative statements and rumours and asked the state to ensure there was no disturbance anywhere. For Kabir, a Congress-BJP-turned-TMC rebel whose political career has oscillated as sharply as the reactions to his announcements, Saturdays event is both a test of his mobilisation prowess and a declaration of defiance after his suspension from the TMC on Thursday for what the party called communal politics. The MLA, who has often embarrassed the party with remarks that triggered showcause notices, said he would resign as legislator and launch his own outfit later this month. On Friday, he was seen personally supervising the stage and food arrangements, appearing unfazed by either the political backlash or the administrative glare. The scale of preparations has lent the venue the ambience of a massive public fair. A 150-ft-long, 80-ft-wide dais towers over paddy fields off NH-12, with seating arranged for 400 guests. Two clerics from Saudi Arabia, organisers claim, will arrive in a special convoy from Kolkata airport. Nearly 3,000 volunteers - 2,000 of whom began work early Friday- have been tasked with regulating access roads, preventing bottlenecks and keeping the national highway running. Seven Murshidabad-based catering agencies have been contracted to prepare shahi biryani, with an estimated 40,000 packets for guests and another 20,000 for residents. A close aide of Kabir estimated food expenses alone at over Rs 30 lakh, with the total venue budget likely to touch Rs 70 lakh. The days programme, circulated by organisers, lists Quran recitation at 10 am, the foundation ceremony at noon, a community meal at 2 pm, and dispersal by 4 pm as per police instructions. On Saturday, the ruling party will observe 'Samhati Diwas' (Unity Day) statewide with rallies to spread the message of communal harmony. The state government has declared a holiday on the day, projecting a message of peace and restraint. The Left Front, meanwhile, will mark the day as Black Day in memory of the demolition, underscoring how December 6 continues to be a political faultline. As Bengal steps into a Saturday thick with symbolism, security and competing political narratives, Beldanga becomes the stage upon which defiance, faith, politics and electoral calculations converge. Whether the event passes off as a controlled show of strength or becomes a fresh flashpoint will test not just the districts policing bandwidth, but the political temperature of the state.
West Bengal is on high alert as suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir proceeds with a mosque foundation ceremony in Murshidabad, styled after the Babri Masjid, on December 6. The Calcutta High Court placed public order responsibility on the state, deploying extensive security. The event, coinciding with the Babri Masjid demolition anniversary, carries significant political and communal sensitivities.
West Bengal Police has released the provisional answer key for the 2025 Constable and Lady-Constable exam. Candidates can now download the key from the official website to calculate their tentative scores and identify any discrepancies. This allows aspirants to gauge their performance before the upcoming physical tests and final results.
Pregnant Sunali brought back to India with son
A pregnant woman and her son, detained as illegal immigrants and deported to Bangladesh, have finally returned to India after a six-month ordeal. The mother, nine months pregnant, and her eight-year-old son crossed the border into West Bengal. Her husband and another woman with her two sons remain in Bangladesh, awaiting repatriation.
West Bengal Mother-Son Duo, Pushed Over Border, Back In India After 5 Months
The Supreme Court recently ordered the Centre to bring back the mother-son duo on humanitarian grounds after their Indian citizenship was found valid during a verification in a legal battle contested by the Trinamul Congress government.
NEW DELHI: Agitated passengers thronged IndiGo counters across the three terminals of Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) on Friday after the airline announced the cancellation of all its 235 domestic flights from the city. The airline, with a 64.1 percent market share, cancelled over 1,000 flights across the country on Friday leading to chaos at airports nationwide. By afternoon, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which takes care of airport security, denied entry inside the terminals to any passenger holding an IndiGo flight ticket. The CISF has brought in its entire platoon of reserve personnel to manage the situation. Leaves of all CISF cops have also been cancelled, said a source. Many were spotted near the staff to offer them security. The airline has been asked to open more counters and deploy more manpower across the airports to tend to passenger queries, he added. Additional police staff from the IGIA police station were also brought to the terminals to keep everything under control, said a police source. While Terminal 1 operates roughly 150 flights, T2 operates 50 and T3 the rest. The cancellation was abruptly announced for a 24-hour period from 12 midnight until 11.59 pm on Friday despite IndiGo announcing a day earlier that it would curtail flight operations from December 8. The worst affected were transit passengers who had reached Delhi on their way to other cities but were stuck inside the terminal. Airfares surge tenfold on certain routes as IndiGo cancels 1,000 flights on Friday Jahangir Sheikh and 14 others, natives of West Bengal who are employed in Jeddah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, reached here on Thursday afternoon and were still at the airport until late Friday evening pleading for a flight with IndiGo staff. We get a long leave to visit our families once every two years. Two days have been spent at the airport now and IndiGo says they will be able to help us only on December 8, Sheikh told this reporter. Imagine sitting in an airport building instead of being with your family. No one in IndiGo is helping us here, he charged. A 22-strong group comprising a few parents, teachers and 12 boys who were on the way from Punjab to Vishakapatnam to take part in a national tournament were stuck at the airport for nearly 12 hours on Friday. Teacher Nidhi Nandwana said, We had to be at Vishakapatnam for the five-day hockey tournament starting today. We reached Delhi at 7 am and learnt all flights have been cancelled today. The boys are very upset as they are the best in Punjab and selected across schools. We have pleaded with the organizers to give us time till tomorrow to reach. But staff are saying no alternative flights can be arranged today or tomorrow. Passengers are upset and angry. They are raising slogans against the airline in frustration, an airport official said. A large number of passengers were also desperately crowding counters of Air India, Air India Express and SpiceJet to see if they could get tickets there. Passengers from arriving flights were stuck too as they could not get their baggage. The baggage of hundreds is stuck and they want to collect them before leaving, the official said. Even the baggage from cancelled flights checked in already needs to be retrieved, he added. Centre orders high-level probe into IndiGo flight chaos, expects restoration of all services in three days
Pregnant Sunali Khatun and son returns from Bangladesh; four family members still stranded
KOLKATA: Pregnant Sunali Khatun and her eight-year-old son Sabir finally returned to India on Friday evening after spending more than six months in Bangladesh. However, four others from the group of six Bengali-speaking Indians, who were pushed back to Bangladesh by the Delhi Police on suspicion of being Bangladeshi nationals, continue to remain in the neighbouring country. All six are members of the same family and hail from Birbhum district in West Bengal. Sunali and her son crossed the India-Bangladesh border in Malda district amid tight security arrangements by the Border Security Force (BSF). They were taken to a local BSF camp for official formalities in the presence of senior administrative officials and later shifted to Malda Medical College and Hospital for comprehensive health check-ups. Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Samirul Islam told TNIE , Sunali and her son have been taken to Malda Medical College and Hospital for their health check-ups. They will return to their village Paikar in Murarai, Birbhum, on Saturday. We demand that the Bangladesh government immediately repatriate the remaining four individuals. Calling it a historic moment in an X post, Islam said the episode exposed the torture and atrocities inflicted on poor Bengalis. He added, Sunali, who was pregnant at the time, was forcibly deported in June this year. After enduring six months of unimaginable suffering, she and her child have at last returned to their homeland. He further alleged that despite the Supreme Courts clear order, the Centre failed to take any action over the past two days to ensure their immediate return, forcing their advocates to raise the issue once again before the court. Only then was the return finally made possible, he said. Finally, after a long battle against the Bangla-Birodhi Zamindars, Sunali Khatun and her minor son have returned to India. This day will be remembered as a historic moment that exposes the torture and atrocities inflicted on poor Bengalis. Sunali, who was pregnant at the time, pic.twitter.com/ktfMkeOJIQ Samirul Islam (@SamirulAITC) December 5, 2025 The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the West Bengal government to provide free medical care to Sunali, who is in an advanced stage of pregnancy, after the Centre informed the bench that it would bring her and Sabir back to India purely on humanitarian grounds. The court also said that the well-being of eight-year-old Sabir would be the responsibility of the Bengal government. On a request from Sanjay Hegde, counsel for Sunalis father Bhodu Sekh of Birbhum, the court agreed that she should receive medical treatment in West Bengal rather than Delhi. The hearing pertained to the Centres appeal challenging a September 26 Calcutta High Court order directing the government to bring back Sunali, her husband Danish Sekh, their son Sabir, and three others who were deported to Bangladesh in June on allegations of being infiltrators. The high court had observed that they were deported without a proper inquiry or an opportunity to be heard, violating their fundamental rights. The bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi also orally suggested that Sunalis citizenship could be verified based on her father Bhodus citizenship documents. In its order, the Supreme Court noted, Pursuant to the observations made on the previous date of hearing, Tushar Mehta, learned Solicitor General of India, on instructions, informs that purely on humanitarian grounds, the Government of India has agreed to bring back Sunali Khatun , D/o Bhodu Sekh, along with her eight-year-old son, Sabir. The verdict, which came two days after the deportees were granted bail by a Bangladesh court brought relief and joy to the family in Birbhum. Bhodu Sekh said he was elated after hearing the Supreme Court order and that his worries would finally end with his daughters return home. 'Can't deport Bangla-speaking people to Bangladesh': TMC, BJP spar in Lok Sabha
Assam black tea, Kashmiri saffron, Bhagavad Gita among PM Modi's gifts to Putin
NEW DELHI: Flavourful Assam black tea, Kashmiri saffron, a handcrafted silver horse, an ornate tea set and a Russian edition of the Bhagavad Gita are among the gifts Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave to Russian President Vladimir Putin. A copy of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita presents Lord Krishna's guidance to Arjuna on duty, the eternal soul and spiritual liberation during the battle of the Mahabharata. Its timeless wisdom inspires ethical living, mind control and inner peace, with translations making it accessible to modern readers worldwide, officials said. Grown in the fertile Brahmaputra plains, Assam black tea is prized for its robust malty flavour, bright liquor and traditional processing using the 'Assamica' variety. Recognised with a GI tag in 2007, it represents a rich heritage shaped by land, climate and craft. Beyond its cultural legacy, it is also valued for potential health benefits, making each cup both comforting and wholesome. The ornate Murshidabad silver tea set, crafted with intricate engravings, reflects the rich artistry of West Bengal and the deep cultural importance of tea in both India and Russia. Gifted with affection, the set celebrates the enduring India-Russia friendship and the timeless ritual of tea, the officials said. The handcrafted silver horse from Maharashtra, adorned with intricate detailing, showcases the finesse of India's metal craft traditions. Symbolising dignity and valour celebrated in both Indian and Russian cultures, it reflects shared heritage and mutual respect, the officials said. The poised and forward-moving stance of the handcrafted horse serves as a metaphor for the enduring and ever-advancing India-Russia partnership. The handcrafted marble chess set from Agra blends fine craftsmanship with functional elegance, highlighting the region's stone inlay heritage under the 'One District One Product' (ODOP) initiative. Kashmiri saffron, locally known as Kong or Zaffran, cultivated in the highlands of Kashmir, is prized for its rich colour, aroma and flavour, and holds deep cultural and culinary significance.
Centre reworking and refining procedures to resume MGNREGA scheme in West Bengal
Centre froze MGNREGA funds to the State in March 2022, citing continued non-compliance with Central directives; in June 2025, the Calcutta HC ordered resumption of the scheme, which the SC upheld in October
No intervention in foundation stone-laying of Babri-style mosque in Murshidabad, says Calcutta HC
KOLKATA: The Calcutta High Court on Friday refused to intervene in the construction of a mosque modelled on Ayodhya's Babri Masjid at Beldanga in West Bengal's Murshidabad, proposed by suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir. The court's observation comes ahead of the scheduled foundation-laying ceremony for the proposed 'Babri Masjid' on December 6, which also marks the anniversary of the demolition of the original sanctum. The division bench of Acting Chief Justice Sujoy Paul, after hearing a PIL seeking a stay on the foundation stone laying ceremony for the proposed mosque, directed that the responsibility of maintenance of law and order would rest with the West Bengal government. The PIL, which was filed on Thursday, sought the stay on grounds that the ceremony could disrupt communal harmony in the region. The petitioner prayed that the court should take immediate action against Kabir's provocative remarks that have allegedly disrupted communal harmony. The writ petition pertains to stop the foundation stone laying of Babri Masjid in Beldanga Block 1, Murshidabad to maintain Law and order. The MLA has been using filthy and derogatory statements and hate speech against a community, which causes breach of public tranquility. Such kind of statements and hate speech over social media and You Tube news portal, being a Member of Legislative Assembly, may break the communal harmony of our state as well as our country, the petition stated. Kabir, who has hogged the limelight in the past with controversial statements on matters, including the party's internal affairs, was suspended by the Trinamool Congress on Thursday for indulging in what it termed communal politics. The suspended leader subsequently announced his decision to resign as MLA and launch his own party later this month.
West Bengal CEO directs BLOs to re-verify voter lists, remove ineligible names by December 11
KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal has directed booth-level officers (BLOs) involved in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls to re-check enumeration forms and ensure that the names of all deceased, absent, or duplicate voters are removed before the first phase concludes on December 11. The deadline for the first phase of the SIR has been extended from December 4 to December 11. In a message to BLOs, Agarwal emphasised the need for utmost care while uploading data. You must ensure every single dead, absent, or duplicate voters name is deleted from the voter list, as the Election Commission aims to include every eligible voter and remove every ineligible one. There should not be any mistake, inadvertent or otherwise, Agarwal said on Thursday. 'They are forcing me to end my life': Why many BLOs in Bengal found the SIR drive 'inhuman' He warned that the commission will take legal action if any intentional mistake is detected. A senior official in the CEOs office stated that only seven polling booths reported having no deceased or shifted voters in the past year, a decline from 2,208 initially and 480 two days ago. The revised figures came after the CEOs office instructed districts to thoroughly re-check numbers before submission, the official added. In his note, the CEO reminded BLOs that they are on deputation to the Election Commission for the SIR exercise and are responsible for critical verification work. He also expressed gratitude to those BLOs who have done a commendable job, saying no word is enough to praise them. The CEOs message, however, did not mention the BLO Oikyo Manchs claim that four BLOs had died due to stress and deadline pressure during the SIR process over the past month, nor did it address compensation for their families. A deputy CEO earlier stated that district election officers have been asked to submit reports on the alleged incidents and the actual causes of the deaths. ECI directs states, UTs to expedite preparations for Special Intensive Revision
CEO tells West Bengal BLOs to re-verify forms, delete dead or absent voters by December 11
In his note, the CEO reminded BLOs that they are on deputation to the ECI for the SIR exercise and are responsible for crucial verification work
CEO tells Bengal BLOs to re-verify forms, delete dead or absent voters by Dec 11
KOLKATA: West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal directed booth-level officers (BLOs) engaged in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls to re-check enumeration forms and ensure that names of all deceased, absent or duplicate voters are deleted before the first phase ends on December 11. The last date for the first phase []
Bengal SIR: CEO tells BLOs to re-verify forms by Dec 11
Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal directed booth-level officers (BLOs) engaged in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls to re-check enumeration forms and ensure that names of all deceased, absent or duplicate voters are deleted before the first phase ends on December 11. The last date for the first phase of 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 BLOs asked to re-verify forms, delete dead or absent voters by Dec 11
West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Agarwal has instructed booth-level officers to meticulously re-examine voter enumeration forms. The directive emphasizes the urgent deletion of names of deceased, absent, or duplicate voters. This crucial task must be completed before the first phase of the Special Intensive Revision concludes on December 11.
Rajya Sabha green light to excise policy to curb tobacco consumption
NEW DELHI: Parliament on Thursday passed the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after the Rajya Sabha approved it and returned it to the Lok Sabha. The Bill amends the Central Excise Act, 1944, with the key objective of increasing excise duties and cess on multiple tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, hookah tobacco, chewing tobacco, zarda and scented tobacco. Replying to the discussion on the Bill, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman accused the West Bengal government of obstructing the states development despite receiving full assistance from the Centre. She insisted that the Centre had never neglected West Bengal. In fact, it is the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government that is hurting the growth of the people of West Bengal, she said while responding to points raised by TMC members. Referring to health coverage, she reminded the House that West Bengal withdrew from the Ayushman Bharat scheme in January 2019, adding, Is that good for the people of Bengal? Sitharaman said industries were steadily leaving West Bengal and listed several indicators of the Centres contributions. She noted that AIIMS Kalyani had been established and 11 medical colleges were approved under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme. She added that West Bengal received a record railway budget allocation of Rs 13,955 crore for 202526, more than three times the 200914 average outlay of Rs 4,380 crore. In addition, 101 Amrit Stations are being developed in the state at a cost of Rs 3,847.5 crore. The minister said that 1,650 km of railway lines had been electrified, bringing total electrification in Bengal to over 98%. She informed the House that more than 2,300 km of National Highways had been built since 2014. Responding to concerns raised by TMC MP Sagarika Ghose about the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF), Sitharaman said that transfers had not been halted.
Deploy extra staff: SC to states on concerns related to BLOs in SIR exercise
The Supreme Court plans to finish hearing challenges to electoral roll revisions before the winter break. States like Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal are involved. Concerns were raised about the Election Commission determining citizenship and the pressure on booth-level officers. The court directed states to provide support to these officers.
