Fraudsters using AI voice dupe actor of 2 lakh
West Bengal to Provide Land and Housing to Matua Refugees, Says Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari pledges land and housing for Matua refugees from Bangladesh, promising their release from detention. West Bengal to Provide Land and Housing to Matua Refugees, Says Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari
Govt approves 9.4 crore funding for Uttam Mancha renovation
Two students drownwhile bathing in Hooghly
Bike-borne goons snatch bag from car near Allen Park
West Bengal announces government jobs for families of political violence victims dating back to 2001
The West Bengal government has introduced a scheme offering Group D government jobs to one eligible family member of people killed in political violence in the state since January 1, 2001. The initiative covers spouses, children and, in cases involving unmarried victims, siblings, subject to eligibility conditions.
Music teacher dies after SUV jumps signal, hits bike
Cancer drug price slash to help cut down on treatment dropout
Wait stretches for traders of Free School St fire building
City markets abuzz with festive shoppers on last Sunday before Diwali-Kali Puja
House fire sparks panic in Chorbagan near stampede site, no casualty reported
Sharing Sarsuna strip video may invite IT Act cases, accused sent to police custody till Nov 6
More floods, water shortage in Kol as atmospheric moisture rises 25% by 2100: IIT-Kgp study
Amar Para Gariahat & Hindustan Park
NFR opens Rangapani-Bagdogra siding line in North Bengal for regular freight operations
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Nov 1 (IANS) The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has commissioned the existing 6.8-km Rangapani-Bagdogra siding line under its Katihar Division for regular freight operations, paving the way for smoother goods movement and strengthening freight connectivity in the region, officials said on Sunday. Katihar Division headquarters in Katihar city in Bihar. The Rangapani-Bagdogra corridor is a vital strategic and logistical railway link located in the Siliguri region (Chicken's Neck) of Darjeeling district in North Bengal. NFRs Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said that the long-disused line has been brought into use with minimal expenditure, making productive use of existing railway infrastructure to meet growing freight transportation requirements. With this development, trains coming from East Central Railway (ECR) and entering NFR at Forbesganj will no longer require reversal at Siliguri Junction (SGUJ), he said. Eliminating this reversal will result in substantial energy savings, avoid unnecessary detention of rolling stock and reduce the deployment of crew and shunting staff for reversal operations. Sharma said that the new operational arrangement will enable NFR to receive at least 10 trains per day from ECR at Forbesganj for onward movement to destinations beyond Barsoi. This will significantly enhance freight handling capacity and operational efficiency, while facilitating faster movement and better utilisation of rolling stock, he added. The additional freight route offers greater operational flexibility and more efficient utilisation of railway resources. According to the NFR CPRO, for traders, businesses and consumers in the region, it is expected to support more reliable transportation of goods and strengthen local supply chains. The initiative also creates scope for NFR to handle additional freight traffic and generate revenue through better utilisation of an existing asset. The conversion was carried out under the guidance of NFR General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava, with coordinated efforts by Katihar Division and the other concerned departments. It reflects NFRs continued focus on improving services through teamwork and optimal utilisation of existing assets, Sharma said. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), headquartered at Maligaon near Guwahati, operates across the Northeastern states as well as in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of north Bihar.
Concern for pets dogs humans a week before festival of lights
Tollygunge guild elections conclude, one post has a tie
Chandernagore river cruise plan for Jagaddhatri Puja
Cyclone Murasu forms over Bay of Bengal, no major impact on state
KIFF gets new logo, Victoria Memorial to host inaugural ceremony on Dec 16
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 1 (IANS) The Matua refugees coming to West Bengal from neighbouring Bangladesh who had been jailed during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government, will be released in the coming days and will also be provided with land and accommodation in the state, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said on Sunday. He also promised that such Matua refugees will first be granted citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and thereafter their names will be enrolled in the voters' list. Matuas are a Backward Class Hindu community from erstwhile East Pakistan or present day Bangladesh, who settled in different parts of West Bengal over time since Independence. CM Adhikari made these promises while addressing the second International Matua Gosai Conference at Thakurbari, the ancestral home of the Matua leadership in Thakurnagar at Bangaon in North 24 Parganas district. After the recent regime change in Bangladesh, many Matuas among Hindu brothers who settled there faced massive atrocities. Then, in West Bengal, the previous Trinamool Congress-ruled administration selectively arrested many Hindu refugees, including those from the Matua community. On September 1, 2025, our Union Home Minister Amit Shah promised that no police would touch those who had left Bangladesh and entered India to save their lives till December 31, 2024, the Chief Minister said. Thereafter, Chief Minister Adhikari announced that if any Matua refugees are still in jail without trial in any correctional home in the border adjacent Bangaon and Barasat in North 24 Parganas and Ranaghat in Nadia district, they will be released from jail with dignity and will be given land and houses. The Chief Minister in his speech also promised to give CAA certificates to the people from the Matua community by December 31 this year. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Adhikari also launched a scathing attack over the opposition parties and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) over the latter's movement on the twin issues of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Those who are trying to destabilise the country and state will not be spared. We will fight against them. The Hindus will not become refugees again in their own land, the Chief Minister said. Speaking on the occasion, he also recalled how his own mother, who hailed from Barisal in erstwhile East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, was driven out overnight from there just on religious grounds. My mother came here as a refugee from Barisal. She was thrown out of Bangladesh just because she was a Hindu. I will be vigilant against those who want to destabilise our country and state like Bangladesh, Chief Minister Adhikari added.
West Bengal Police Busts Major Drug Trafficking Racket in Malda
West Bengal CM praises police for dismantling a drug trafficking ring, seizing nearly 2.7 kg of morphine in Malda. West Bengal Police Busts Major Drug Trafficking Racket in Malda
West Bengal GST revenue rises 17% to 6,055 crore in October
The State also received 7,866 crore from the Centre as part of an advance instalment of tax devolution to States.
RG Kar victims mother flags unchanged corruption in Bengal medical colleges, questions CBI probe
CM Adhikari congratulates Bengal Police on busting organised narcotics racket
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 1 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday congratulated the Special Task Force (STF) of the state police over the busting of an organised narcotics racket in Malda district of the state. In a social media statement, CM Adhikari had claimed that in a breakthrough in our ongoing crackdown against narcotics syndicates, a vigilant team from the STF of the state police intercepted a vehicle on the National Highway-12 near Madhughat at Kaliachak in Malda district and recovered around 2.688 kg of contraband morphine. As per the Chief Minister's statement, four key persons, all involved in an inter-state narcotics smuggling racket, were arrested in this connection. The Chief Minister also claimed that a specific case has been initiated to thoroughly dismantle the entire racket from its roots. I appreciate the officers and personnel of West Bengal Police and the STF for their swift, coordinated action and unwavering dedication to duty. Let me remind the drug smugglers, racketeers and syndicate operators, they will be dealt with an iron fist, as our Government maintains an uncompromising zero tolerance policy against drug peddling to safeguard the future of our Youth and strengthen our collective resolve under the #NashaMuktBHaratAbhiyan, CM Adhikari said in a statement. Since taking charge as the ninth West Bengal Chief Minister after the Assembly polls earlier this year, Suvendu Adhikari had been very vocal against organised narcotics smuggling rackets and illegal liquor dens operating in different parts of the state. According to CM Adhikari, constant drives against such organised narcotics smuggling rackets and illegal liquor dens were extremely necessary to prevent other social evils, especially crime against women. Since then, the state police have been quite active on this count, with several narcotics smuggling rackets being busted and several illegal liquor dens being demolished in different parts of the state during the last few months. Every success of the state police in busting such rackets had been acknowledged by the Chief Minister through his social media statement, boosting the morale of the state police in the matter.
Nitin Nabin to lead BJPs Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao padyatras in Bihar, Bengal
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president Nitin Nabin will lead two major Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao Padyatras in Bihar and West Bengal on Monday as part of the partys nationwide campaign against what it describes as the Oppositions misinformation, disinformation and organised anarchy. The first padyatra (foot march) will commence at 11:00 a.m. from Lajpat Park in Bhagalpur, Bihar, and conclude at Seva Jyoti Chowk at 12:30 pm. Thereafter, Nabin will travel to Kolkata, where the second padyatra will begin at 3:00 p.m. from College Street and conclude at Dharmatala at 5:30 pm, a BJP press note said. According to the party, the campaign is a movement against the lies, deception, conspiracies and anarchy being spread by a desperate and disillusioned Opposition. With the resolve of Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao, every BJP karyakarta is reaching out to villages and households to expose the Oppositions false and fabricated narrative and apprise the people of the truth, the press note said. Senior party leaders, state BJP presidents, thousands of dedicated karyakartas and members of the public will participate in the padyatras being organised in Bhagalpur and Kolkata. The BJP has framed the initiative as a response to what it calls systematic attempts by the Opposition to mislead the public and create disorder. Party leaders maintain that the padyatras will help counter false narratives and reinforce the message of democratic values and disciplined public life. Nabins dual programmes in the two states on the same day underline the partys focus on taking its campaign directly to the people in key regions. The BJP has indicated that similar programmes will continue across the country as part of the larger nationwide drive. The party expects large participation from workers and supporters in both Bhagalpur and Kolkata. Officials said detailed arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of the padyatras.
West Bengal government notifies jobs for kin of those killed in political violence
The notification provides a cut off date from 2001 onwards; families of victims of political violence in the past 25 years can apply for government jobs
Kolkata Durga Puja stampede aftermath: Bengal govt issues pandal guidelines for Kali and Jagadhatri Puja Kolkata: In the wake of the stampede tragedy at the community Durga Puja pandal of Chorbagan Sarbojanin in north Kolkata, which left 19 people dead, the West Bengal administration has issued a new set of pandal guidelines for the forthcoming [] The post Kolkata Durga Puja stampede aftermath: Bengal govt issues pandal guidelines for Kali and Jagadhatri Puja appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Former Chief Minister of West Bengal and leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Mamata Banerjee, hit out hard at the BJP-led government as well as the Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, in a speech she gave at the INDIA block's massive
PM Modi Approves North Corridor Of Bullet Train Project: Delhi-Guwahati Trip In Eight Hours
Proposed extension will connect Guwahati with Delhi through major cities across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal, cutting travel time to around eight hours.
BJP appoints Priti Nonia as partys spokesperson in West Bengal
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 1 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday announced the appointment of Priti Nonia as the spokesperson for its West Bengal unit. The key organisational appointment was cleared by the BJP's West Bengal President Samik Bhattacharya, and the announcement was made through the party's X handle. The Bengal BJPs General Secretary and state office-in-charge, Shashi Agnihotri, issued an organisational order stating, State President Samik Bhattacharya has appointed Priti Nonia as a State Spokesperson of the BJP, West Bengal. Samik Bhattacharya also extended warm congratulations on her appointment and best wishes for the new responsibility. Notably, Priti Chauhan is a resident of Asansol district and a journalist by profession. She currently resides in Delhi. The appointment comes into effect with immediate effect, said the official release. Following her appointment, Priti Nonia also took to her social media handle on Facebook to express gratitude to the party leadership as well as special thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bestowing upon her the responsibility. I express my sincere gratitude and thanks to the top leadership and the organisation of Bharatiya Janata Party for entrusting me with the responsibility of serving as a spokesperson for the BJP in West Bengal, she said in a post on Facebook. Nonia, making special mention of PM Modi, party national president Nitin Nabin, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and others, added that it was a matter of great fortune and pride for her to have the opportunity to work under the guidance and leadership of the esteemed leaders. I shall work with complete loyalty, dedication, and commitment to ensure that the organisations ideals, spirit of service, and commitment to public welfare reach every individual, she said further in the FB post.
FairPoint: Rahul Gandhi and the desperation of a dethroned prince
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) Rahul Gandhi sitting in the front seat of an open bus, with other Opposition leaders behind him, and a man wearing saffron headgear running barefoot with a fluttering Tricolour; the scene could not have been more dramatic. The Ramlila Maidan provided even more eye-catching moments, with thousands of people, mainly from Congress-ruled states, turning up to show solidarity on an issue that Rahul Gandhi wants to turn into a movement for regime change. In an age when spectacles have become favourites on social media and the number of views and clicks matters so much, Rahul Gandhi's event could certainly be termed interesting. But success in the virtual world is quite different from the ground reality. The ground situation is not as rosy as the viral reels and social media posts might suggest. The recent MLC elections in 28 seats across four states offer a reality check. These were not elections fought in the illusory world of social media. The truth is that the Congress won just one seat, and that too largely because of the candidate's own standing rather than any political appeal that Rahul Gandhi might have generated. Earlier, during the Bihar elections, Rahul Gandhi tried his best to make the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) an issue but failed to get the response he was looking for. The people voted in large numbers and handed victory to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led NDA. Then why is he sticking to this issue and trying to create a wave, believing that ordinary voters, who have been casting their votes, will buy his claims? The answer perhaps lies with Rahul Gandhi himself and those who were sitting in that open bus and attending his rally at the Ramlila Maidan. Consider the leaders who have rallied behind him. Mamata Banerjee, who lost the West Bengal Assembly elections; the Left, which lost its hold in Kerala; Akhilesh Yadav, who is trying to regain his political foothold in Uttar Pradesh; Mehbooba Mufti, whose party suffered electoral setbacks in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls; and Farooq Abdullah, whose party is grappling with internal discord. Then there are Sanjay Raut and Supriya Sule, whose respective parties lost power in Maharashtra. Rahul Gandhi's mission, and that of those supporting him, seems to be focused on one objective: discrediting a legitimately elected government. With each passing day, this impression is becoming more apparent. Rahul Gandhi seems to be in a hurry to reclaim something that he believes belongs to him. Whether it is questioning the Election Commission, challenging electoral mandates, or organising a mock Parliament to target constitutional authorities, his recent political activities suggest an Opposition leader who is unwilling to accept the limitations of his present position. His stated political objective seems to be to dislodge the government at the Centre, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He has identified his targets and made them known publicly: Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Modi. There is nothing wrong with criticising the government or the ruling party. It is the Opposition's job to question the government, raise its voice and hold the ruling dispensation accountable. It is also perfectly legitimate to seek a change in government. But in India, a change of government can only come through the electoral process or a change in the political equations that sustain a coalition government. What Rahul Gandhi has been doing of late reflects what can only be described as the desperation of a prince who has been dethroned. Instead of focusing on getting his own and his party's act together, he seems more inclined towards discrediting others than proving his own worth. Perhaps he believes that this kind of politics can help him create the wave among the masses that he has so far failed to generate. Former Supreme Court judge (Retd.) Markandey Katju described Rahul Gandhi's paradox as that of he mad wannabe King of India. It is worth recalling that, despite the Gandhi family not having a Prime Minister in office between May 2004 and May 2014, it was widely seen as exercising considerable influence in the UPA government. And no one can forget the moment when Rahul Gandhi, at a press conference on September 27, 2013, denounced and dismissed a controversial ordinance proposed by his own party's UPA government, then led by the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He described it as complete nonsense that should be torn up and thrown away. He even tore up a copy of the ordinance while the then Prime Minister was on an official visit to the United States. More than 13 years later, similar political theatrics seem to be playing out again. Rahul Gandhi's repeated attacks on constitutional institutions, even as he makes a show of carrying a pocket-sized copy of the Constitution, are quite paradoxical. The Election Commission of India, the Supreme Court and the office of the Prime Minister are all important pillars of our constitutional framework. They are certainly not above scrutiny or criticism. But attempting to create mass hysteria through allegations that have yet to be substantiated is hardly the way to demonstrate respect for the Constitution. Interestingly, Prime Minister Modi made some striking remarks during his speech in Gujarat on 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas'. He mentioned that certain forces were continuously engaged in conspiracies to divide the nation. He said that attempts were being made to divide and pit against one another the children of Mother India. He also added that, after more than a decade of frustration and disappointment, these people had now come out in the open. We must identify who is secretly meeting whom abroad, which anti-India forces are supporting whom, and who is speaking the language of India's enemies. We must recognise these patterns. We must unite and confront them. Especially the way social media is being used as a weapon, the way rumours are being spread, and the efforts being made to damage India's image, all citizens must come together to deal with these challenges, he said. These are serious statements and point to concerns that have been expressed repeatedly by many. If foreign elements are indeed involved in pushing agendas and creating instability in India, it is high time the government exposed them and placed the evidence in the public domain. Without naming anyone, PM Modi's remarks offered enough hints to invite questions. Why have constitutional institutions, including the Election Commission, the Supreme Court and even the Armed Forces, repeatedly come under attack? Are these attacks merely part of domestic political sparring, or is there a larger story that needs to be examined? The government must investigate and bring the facts into the public domain. After all, a dethroned prince may continue to dream of reclaiming his throne, but in India's democracy, it is the people who decide who gets to occupy it. (Deepika Bhan can be contacted at deepika.b@ians.in)
'Vanish, Vanish, Yes Papa': Mamata Banerjee's Poetic Swipe At CEC Gyanesh Kumar
At the INDIA bloc's Ramlila Maidan rally, West Bengal Former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a blistering attack on the BJP and Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging voter disenfranchisement and electoral manipulation. Using a parody of the popular 'Johny Johny Yes Papa' rhyme, Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP of 'loot and plunder', claimed voters in Bengal had been removed from electoral rolls, and vowed to continue the fight through democratic means.
Bengal researcher bags PharmInnova honour; Shah calls for stronger pharma R&D push
Suvendu Adhikari accuses Mamata Banerjee of dividing Matuas and opposing CAA
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari accuses Mamata of fracturing Matua ties and opposing CAA, as he pledges targeted support for Thakurnagar and the communitys inclusion in State policy
Will provide citizenship to 2.5 lakh under CAA by Dec 31: Bengal CM
Thakurnagar: West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday, November 1, asserted that the government would expedite hearing and provide citizenship under the CAA to 2.5 lakh petitioners in the state by December 31. Addressing the International Matua Gosai Convention 2026 at Thakurnagar, the traditional stronghold of the Matuas, in North 24 Parganas district, Adhikari 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 .
Are you Bangladeshi?: Truck driver Khan asked at toll plaza
West Bengal: An Indian Muslim truck driver was asked if he was a Bangladeshi when he requested the toll plaza employee to speak in Bengali. The incident occurred on October 26 at the Shibpur toll plaza on National Highway 12. Rafikul Khan from Narayanpur was transporting bananas from Karimpur towards Siliguri. His truck reached the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Cockroach Janta Party Backs Vote Chori Fight, But Skips INDIA Blocs Ramlila Maidan Rally
The Cockroach Janta Party has backed the INDIA blocs protest against alleged vote chori and electoral irregularitiesbut it will not join the rally at Delhis Ramlila Maidan. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke said the organisation supports demands for accountability from the Election Commission, including calls for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumars resignation. However, Dipke said the CJP wants to remain politically neutral and independent. His announcement came after he met former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Delhi.
Four held from Malda as West Bengal STF busts interstate drug network
Four held from Malda as West Bengal STF busts interstate drug network
BJP Appoints Preeti Nonia as State Spokesperson for West Bengal
The BJP has appointed Preeti Nonia as the new state spokesperson for West Bengal, effective immediately. BJP Appoints Preeti Nonia as State Spokesperson for West Bengal
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has welcomed the extension of the Northern bullet train corridor from Siliguri to Guwahati, saying Delhi-Guwahati travel could take under eight hours. PM Narendra Modi has approved the Northern corridor, which will connect major cities across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal before reaching Assam.
Students will now have until 3 pm on November 2, 2026, to submit their challenges through the council's official portal.
BJP releases 'Thago Ka Mela' poster ahead of INDIA bloc's Ramlila Maidan rally
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) Ahead of the INDIA bloc's rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on Sunday, the BJP's Delhi unit released a controversial poster titled 'Thago Ka Mela' (Fair of Thugs), targeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and several other opposition leaders. Designed in the style of a film poster, the graphic features Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Shiv Sena(UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, and other INDIA bloc leaders. The poster describes the objective of the purported 'mela' as spreading rumours and creating anarchy in the country at the behest of anti-national forces to protect their political ground. Directed by Rahul Gandhi and produced by Akhilesh Yadav, reads another line on the poster, taking a swipe at the opposition leaders. Sharing the poster on X, the BJP's Delhi unit said: Today, at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan, it's going to be held again - 'The Fair of Thugs'. It further alleged that the objective was o spread rumours and anarchy in the country at the behest of anti-national forces in order to save their political ground. The poster comes as the INDIA bloc prepares to hold a major protest gathering at Ramlila Maidan against alleged electoral irregularities and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The opposition alliance is set to organise a large-scale 'Chalo Dilli' march, culminating at Ramlila Maidan on Sunday. The protest is aimed at highlighting alleged irregularities in the voter list revision process undertaken by the Election Commission of India (ECI), opposing the SIR exercise and demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The INDIA bloc expects a major show of strength, with opposition leaders, party workers and student groups likely to participate in the rally. Meanwhile, Delhi Police have stepped up security arrangements across the national capital ahead of the march. Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) is in force across Delhi districts, and gatherings have been prohibited at key locations, including Jantar Mantar and the Election Commission office. According to the security arrangements, leaders will be allowed to reach designated venues in their personal vehicles. Police and paramilitary personnel are also set to be deployed at Ramlila Maidan, with security tightened ahead of the opposition gathering.
Census round 2 from Jan 10, house visits from Jan 25
Kali Puja still a week away but crackers start to make their presence felt in city pockets
WBSSC to publish result for Group C & Group D before Kali Puja
1 more cyclone in Bay but Kolkata safe: Met
Biddhannagar cops focus on lasers, drones, sky lanterns
Dont let illegal crackers be sold in the first place, urge citizens
BJPs first official labour union takes off at Kolkata airport
All 300 pending high-rise projects get KMC construction go-ahead
3 JEE top-50 rank-holders opt for JU engg courses
Change of guard at Coast Guard Region North East; Jyotindra Singh takes over as Commandant
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 31 (IANS) Jyotindra Singh, IG, Indian Coast Guard (ICG), took over as Commandant, Coast Guard Region North East from Iqbal Singh Chauhan, in Kolkata, on Saturday. An alumnus of the Naval Academy and a recipient of the coveted Sword of Honour, Singh has commanded all classes of ICG ships and held key appointments ashore. He is also a recipient of the Tatrakshak Medal and DGICG Commendations. The change of command was marked by a ceremonial parade held at the headquarters of the region in Kolkata. He takes charge at a time when the ICG is upgrading its assets and inducting modern surface and aerial platforms. The Region North East is extremely crucial for managing the coastal defences along the eastern seaboard. It is in charge of the states of West Bengal and Odisha. In West Bengal, it has an operational base at Haldia that houses both Coast Guard ships and hovercrafts. It also has a hoverport at Fraserganj to monitor activity close to the Sundarbans. The regional headquarters also has an air enclave at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, from where it operates Dornier aircraft. These aircraft carry out regular surveillance of the coastal waters off West Bengal and Odisha, right up to the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) with Bangladesh. In Odisha, it operates surface assets from Paradip and helicopters from Bhubaneswar. While West Bengal has a coastline measuring nearly 721 km, Odisha's portion is about 575 km. Both states have several vital assets along the coast, including major ports, private ones, oil refineries and port-based industry. Odisha also has several defence assets, including test centres, along its coasts. All of these require constant surveillance. The headquarters in Kolkata gets real-time feed about all ships moving in Indian coastal waters off West Bengal and Odisha, from radar stations along the coast. This data is monitored 24x7. Several of the ICG's older assets are being phased out and being replaced by new ones. We are getting advanced hovercrafts and fast patrol vessels. The Chetak helicopters are being replaced by Dhruv MkIIIs. Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels are also being built and will start joining the force soon. The Dornier fleet is also getting upgraded, an official said. The Coast Guard is also engaged in a variety of activities, including anti-smuggling, anti-poaching, and anti-piracy operations. It also ensures the safety of the thousands of fisherfolk by issuing timely warnings ahead of depressions and cyclones. The Coast Guard North East Region is also entrusted with protecting the highly endangered Olive Ridley turtles when they arrive to roost and lay eggs along the Odisha coast every year. The force is also the nodal agency mandated to check and control pollution at sea. The new IG's experience, illustrious service record and proven leadership will further strengthen the operational excellence of the Coast Guard North East region, the official said.
Former TMC Leader Arrested in West Bengal on Murder and Extortion Charges
Deboraj Pal, a former TMC leader, has been arrested in Mogra, West Bengal, on multiple charges including murder and extortion. Former TMC Leader Arrested in West Bengal on Murder and Extortion Charges
CM orders arrest of CPM neta from BJP dais, reopens 2007 Nandigram Suryadaya case
2 youths molest college student in Barrackpore, held
JU VC seeks EC meet nod, writes to govt
Kid, parents safe after SUV jumps Maa divider, rams car; traffic hit for an hour
Ministers meet for single-ticket travel plans
Assault on 4-yr-old, Pocso cuffs on man
SRFTI row: Students, alumni demand independent inquiry
Mamata Banerjee Praises CJP, Invites Activists to Bengal
New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Saturday praised the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and invited its founder, Abhijeet Dipke, and other activists to organise programmes in Bengal after meeting him in Delhi. Dipke said he met Banerjee to thank her for supporting the outfits first protest at []
Samik demands fresh SIR in Bengal, claims voter roll revision incomplete
West Bengal BJP Calls for Another Round of Voter List Review
BJP leader Samik Bhattacharya urges a new round of voter list scrutiny in West Bengal to eliminate remaining fraudulent entries. West Bengal BJP Calls for Another Round of Voter List Review
Mamata Banerjee Meets Abhijeet Dipke Ahead Of Nov 1 Opposition Rally., Says ''I Am So Proud Of Them\
Trinamool Congress (TMC) president and former Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, held a meeting with the founder of Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), Abhijeet Dipke, in Delhi on Saturday before the opposition party's planned protest march against the Chief Election
Mysterious Death of Police Officer in West Bengal Raises Questions
The mysterious death of police officer Jayanta Pal in Bankura raises concerns and questions about the circumstances surrounding his demise. Mysterious Death of Police Officer in West Bengal Raises Questions
Ambuja Grp to invest Rs 3,000 cr in Bengals hospitality sector
Oppositions in West Bengal question ECI over 16.10 lakh appeals against inclusion of voters
Poll body says appeals were filed by State officials under Supreme Court orders, while Opposition parties question who authorised the move and raise concerns over accountability
Man Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault of Three-Year-Old in West Bengal
A 40-year-old man has been arrested in West Bengal for allegedly sexually assaulting a three-year-old girl, sparking local outrage. Man Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault of Three-Year-Old in West Bengal
Police seize morphine, cough syrup; five arrested
Bengal BJP chief seeks fresh SIR, says earlier exercise incomplete
BJP MP and West Bengal unit president Samik Bhattacharya on Saturday sought a fresh SIR of electoral rolls in the state, claiming that the exercise conducted ahead of the Assembly elections was incomplete. He alleged that more names could have been deleted from the voter list had the officials involved in the exercise, from block development officers to anganwadi workers, and BJP workers not been intimidated. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) held in West Bengal is incomplete, Bhattacharya said. Speaking on behalf of the BJP, I want to say that there is a need for a fresh SIR in the state, he said at the inaugural meeting of a trade union of contractual workers at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport here. He pointed out that the Assembly elections in Bihar were held after the SIR of electoral rolls in the state, while no such exercise was conducted before the polls in Haryana and Delhi, where the BJP emerged victorious. Around 91 lakh names were deleted from th
No sight, no sweat: Cricketers, musician, teacher show path out of darkness
Digital Desk | Ekta Nagar, Oct 31 (IANS) Anti-Naxal units from across the country showcased their role in operations against Left-wing extremism at the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas parade in Ekta Nagar on Saturday, while a subsequent National School of Drama production brought tribal artists from several formerly Maoist-affected states to the national stage. The parade, held to mark the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, featured specialised forces from Bihar, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Telangana and West Bengal, along with units of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Chhattisgarh Police. The contingents marched past the gathering as officials outlined their deployment areas, operations and personnel who had died in the line of duty. Among the units was Bihar Polices Special Task Force. The announcer said the force operated in 22 districts, including Gaya, Jamui and Lakhisarai, and had killed 167 Naxalites, arrested 7,191 and secured the surrender of 371. PM Modi and officials also paid tribute to 191 personnel who had died. The Sashastra Seema Bal contingent, led by Assistant Commandant Vipin Sharma, was credited with killing 16 Naxalites, arresting 1,382 and recovering 536 kg of explosives. Other contingents included Jharkhands Jaguar, Karnatakas Anti-Naxal Force, Kerala Polices Special Operations Group, Madhya Pradeshs Hawk Force and Odishas Special Operations Group. Maharashtras C-60 commandos, whose strength was described as having grown from seven personnel to 1,100, were credited with killing 372 Naxalites, securing 861 surrenders and making 559 arrests. Telanganas Greyhounds, described as a specialised force of 1,250 commandos, were also part of the parade. The announcer highlighted their operations in the Karegutta hills. The parade also featured West Bengal Polices Counter Insurgency Force, the National Cadet Corps and a CRPF-led dog squad. The latter comprised sniffer dogs trained to detect explosives and assist in identifying ambush-related threats. The event concluded this segment with a National School of Drama production titled Naxal-free India. Conceived, written and directed by NSD director Chittaranjan Tripathi, the presentation traced the movements beginnings in Naxalbari in West Bengal in 1967 and the subsequent efforts to restore peace in areas affected by Left-wing extremism. Its performers included NSD repertory artists and tribal artists from Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. The announcer said several had travelled from their villages carrying their languages, songs and folk traditions to perform on a national platform. The presentation sought to place the experiences and cultural identities of communities from conflict-affected regions alongside the security forces account of the campaign against Naxalism.
Mahua Moitra flags Muslim, women voter deletions in Bengal | INDIA bloc impeachment
Speaking at the INDIA blocs symbolic public impeachment proceedings against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar in New Delhi, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra alleged that 71% of voters deleted in West Bengal were Muslims and 51% were women.
IHCL and Ambuja Neotia Group announce new hotels in Kolkata and Siliguri
Ambuja Neotia Group plans to invest Rs 2,700 crore in West Bengal's hospitality sector, which includes new hotel launches. The newly opened AltAir House hotels in Kolkata and Siliguri are part of this initiative. A significant expansion of Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa in Darjeeling also forms part of the investment. The collaboration aims to enhance tourism and create unique travel experiences in the region.
BJP worker injured in clash between two factions in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas
The incident took place near Mamata Medical Hall, close to Titagarh police station, following a Bijoya Sammilani get-together organised by the local BJP mandal, an official said
Man arrested under POCSO for assaulting 3-year-old girl in Bengal's Dattapukur
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 31 (IANS) A man in his forties was arrested in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district for allegedly sexually assaulting a three-and-a-half-year-old girl, police said on Saturday. The accused, identified as Arjun Sardar, had reportedly visited a relative's house in Dattapukur when he allegedly took the child to the roof of a neighbouring house and assaulted her sexually. The incident is said to have taken place on Thursday and came to light the following day, on Friday, triggering tension in the area. According to the police, the victim's family has been living in Subhashnagar in a rented house under Nilganj outpost in Dattapukur police station area for the last three months. Local residents said they went to file a complaint at Nilganj outpost of Dattapukur police station, but police refused to do so. Later, a case was registered against the accused under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, and an investigation was launched. The police arrested the accused on Friday night. Police said the accused has confessed to the crime during interrogation. He was produced before the Barasat court on Saturday. The police sought his custody for further investigation. The child was taken to Barasat Medical College and Hospital for a physical examination. Her family and local residents alleged they had to wait for a long time at Barasat Medical College and Hospital as there was only one female doctor available at that time, and that too was busy. Locals alleged that the girl's medical examination was delayed for several hours due to the unavailability of female doctors, sparking protests at the hospital. The situation was later brought under control. The victim's family has demanded stringent punishment for the accused.
Clash In North 24 Parganas Leaves BJP Worker Injured
A BJP worker, Karan Sheth, was seriously injured in a clash between two factions of the party in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district on Saturday. The incident occurred late Friday night after a Bijoya Sammilani event, leading to police intervention to restore order.
Buxa tigress crosses into Assam, West Bengal government prepares return
Guwahati: A tigress released in Buxa Tiger Reserve earlier this month has crossed into Assam, prompting the West Bengal government to prepare for its return. Forest Minister Manoj Oraon is scheduled to visit Raimona National Park in Assams Kokrajhar district on October 31, Saturday, to assess the animals condition and decide how it can be [] The post Buxa tigress crosses into Assam, West Bengal government prepares return appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Five Former TMC Ministers Arrested in West Bengal Amid Corruption Allegations
In West Bengal, five former ministers of the TMC have been arrested on corruption charges, with only one currently granted bail. Five Former TMC Ministers Arrested in West Bengal Amid Corruption Allegations
