Drink at home, not on streets: Bengal minister Umesh Rai warns drunk troublemakers
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) A video purportedly showing West Bengal Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Umesh Rai warning anti-social elements against creating disturbances under the influence of alcohol has gone viral on social media. However, IANS India could not independently verify the authenticity of the video and cannot vouch for its contents. According to the video, Rai, who represents the Howrah Uttar Assembly constituency, has warned that anyone found disturbing public order after consuming alcohol or engaging in activities that threaten women's safety would face stringent action. He reportedly went a step further, saying that anyone accused of molesting a woman, if the allegation is established through an investigation, would be driven out of the area. The minister's remarks, which came to light on Saturday, were reportedly made during a public meeting on Friday, where he addressed concerns over public safety and disturbances caused by intoxicated people in different parts of Howrah. Drawing a distinction between personal freedom and public nuisance, Rai said he had no objection to people consuming alcohol at their homes, clubs, rooftops or designated places, provided they did not create trouble for others. Who is drinking and where he is drinking alcohol is completely his personal matter. I have no objection if someone drinks alcohol at his own expense in a club, at home, on a rooftop or at a specific place. The good or bad of one's health is a personal responsibility of a person. But if a person drinks alcohol and goes out on the streets and creates ruckus and hooliganism, it will not be tolerated in any way, the minister said, according to the video. Women's safety featured prominently in his address, with the minister urging residents, particularly women, to report incidents of harassment and molestation directly to him. Issuing a stern warning to potential offenders, Rai reportedly said that if a woman complained of molestation and an investigation established the allegation, the accused would face such stringent action that he would be forced to leave the locality. The minister's remarks come amid complaints from residents about disturbances allegedly caused by people consuming alcohol in public places, particularly during the evening hours, in several neighbourhoods of the industrial town. His statement has received support from several residents of North Howrah, with many welcoming his warning against public nuisance and offences targeting women. Political observers believe the minister's intervention is aimed at addressing public concerns over law and order and strengthening confidence among residents. However, the impact of the warning on street-level disturbances and women's safety remains to be seen.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) The West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided to conduct an Assembly constituency-wise assessment of the impact of the nationwide movement launched by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and Opposition parties against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The party's state leadership has drawn up a plan to deploy special review teams in all 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal. Each team will interact with at least 200 people representing different financial, professional, social, ethnic and religious backgrounds to gauge public opinion on the anti-SIR campaign. Apart from assessing the public response to the nationwide protests, the teams will also undertake a counter-campaign to present the BJP's position on the electoral roll revision and counter the arguments being raised by the CJP and opposition parties. The CJP-Opposition ploy to create chaos and anarchy in the country will be exposed before the general public through leaflets and arguments. This exercise will be an extension of the recent 'Save Democracy, Eliminate Anarchy' rallies organised in different parts of the state against the anti-SIR movement, a member of the BJP's state committee said. According to the party leader, the exercise will be conducted in several stages. In the first phase, the teams will identify at least 200 individuals in each Assembly constituency, ensuring representation from different economic, professional, social, ethnic and religious groups. In the next phase, members of the teams will visit the identified individuals at their homes and interact with them. Initially, they will focus on listening to their views on the nationwide anti-SIR campaign without attempting to influence their opinions. Only after listening to their concerns and understanding their perceptions will the team members initiate the counter-campaign by explaining the party's position on the issue, the BJP leader said. The outreach programme will cover people from different walks of life, including workers, farmers, lawyers, teachers, doctors and other professionals. The party also intends to engage representatives of various communities and local opinion makers to obtain a wider understanding of public sentiment. The BJP leadership plans to compile the feedback gathered from all 294 Assembly constituencies into a comprehensive report and forward it to the party's central leadership. The exercise is expected to help the party assess the extent to which the opposition's campaign against the SIR has influenced public opinion in West Bengal and formulate its political response accordingly.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) Trinamool Congress-Mamta General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee has been summoned by Kolkata Police on Saturday for questioning over his social media post targeting the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Gyanesh Kumar. Abhishek, the nephew of the former West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, had been asked to be present at Bhabanipur Police Station in south Kolkata on Saturday. After his social media post on May 2, in which he allegedly made derogatory criticisms about the CEC, an FIR was filed against him on May 27. Now, the police want to question him in the matter, and that is why he had been summoned for interrogation on Saturday afternoon, said an insider from Kolkata Police. The FIR was registered based on a police complaint lodged by Arnabkanti Das, a resident of Bhabanipur, objecting to the social media post, where the Trinamool leader allegedly described the CEC as a puppet of an anti-Bengali Gujarati gang and thus spreading hatred against a particular community. Based on this complaint, the police have filed a case against Abhishek Banerjee under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 relating to spreading hatred, inciting violence, attempting to create chaos, inciting crime against the state, and spreading rumours. The complainant claimed that Abhishek Banerjee made some comments which are harmful to communal harmony and national integrity. He contended that despite taking an oath as an MP to protect the sovereignty of the Indian Constitution and the territorial integrity of the country, Abhishek had referred to the entire Gujarati community as a 'gang' or criminal group. This, according to the complainant, apart from insulting the community, could also destroy the pluralistic culture and social harmony of the country. Therefore, he demanded immediate action against the Diamond Harbour MP. On Friday, another FIR was registered against Abhishek Banerjee at the Girish Park Police Station in north Kolkata, where he had been accused of making derogatory statements and threatening a serving Indian Police Service (IPS) officer in the state. A notice for interrogation in the matter was served at Abhishek Banerjees residence at Kalighat in south Kolkata on Friday night,, where he was asked to appear at the Girish Park Police Station by 12 noon on November 20.
5,000 hospitals on common cashless platform for all insurers: GIC
Siliguri, November 14: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang attended the MP Deusi-Bhailo Mahotsav at Milan More, Champasari, in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, emphasising the importance of preserving traditional languages, customs and cultural heritage while strengthening unity and brotherhood among communities. The cultural celebration was organised through the initiative of Darjeeling Member of [] The post Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Attends MP Deusi-Bhailo Mahotsav at Milan More, Calls for Preservation of Cultural Heritage appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
File FIR against those who tarnish partys image says Bengal BJP chief
BJP has reached here (came to power) by keeping them out. BJP has no need to touch them, West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said, adding that doors of the party are closed for outsiders.
Why Indians behave better at sacred sites
The tranquil and indescribably beautiful environs of Kamarpukur and Joyrambati, the birthplaces of Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa and Maa Sarada Devi in the verdant plains of West Bengal, are truly balms for the soul. Green-gold vistas of ripening rice fields criss-crossed by a myriad of small rivers and dotted with distant sleepy hamlets greeted the eye as a friend and I headed there from Kolkata. And the early morning autumn sun cast a golden, almost divine glow.It was a world away from the pollution-spewing trucks and buses, factories and warehouses that crowd the suburbs of Kolkata beyond the graceful Vidyasagar Setu arching over the Hooghly. Once the cacophony of the Durgapur Expressway was left behind, there was a perceptible change in mood. Anyone who lives in a frenetic big city these days would vouch that stress is endemic and heading out, away from the madding crowds, leads to an instant lowering of tension.And peace is the overwhelming feeling upon entering the impeccably maintained compounds in both villages that contain not only the quaintly thatched huts where the two elevated souls came into this world, but also prayer halls, offices, bhog areas, dispensaries, guesthouses and flower-filled gardens. Given that thousands - exceeding 20,000 on important days - visit Kamarpukur and Joyrambati daily and stay on for bhog prasad, the compounds' serenity is hard to believe.And their cleanliness stuns. Forget jhalmuri packets, tissue papers or plastic water bottles, not even fallen leaves or dust mar the pathways and gardens. It is not as if there are armies of sweepers on hand to pick up detritus either; visitors are simply more mindful while on the premises. How come? After all Indians these days are notorious for being loud, littering gits, on par with British lager louts. It seems that it all depends on whether places inspire respect and restraint.In the expansive hallowed campuses of Kamarpukur and Joyrambati, these same people - Indians - did not talk loudly; they did not try to scratch their initials on pillars; they did not drape themselves on walls or amid the flowers to take selfies; they did not throw trash into the ponds; and they did not let their children turn into screeching, high-speed, wrecking balls. Polite attendants firmly told the few infringers to abide by the rules. And they all willingly complied.I have seen a similar all-pervasive calm at the Belur Math of the Ramakrishna Mission near Kolkata, the Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry and the Golden Temple in Amritsar, thousands of miles apart. There are more such places around India where desi visitors are anything but the kind of Ugly Indian Tourist that locals complain about from Goa to Gangtok, Kashmir to Kanyakumari. That just begs the question why Indians are so badly behaved in many other places.An overwhelming majority of those who come to Kamarpukur and Joyrambati are devotees. They, therefore, know the sanctity of those places and behave accordingly. The same is true of the sacred precincts at Belur, Pondicherry and Amritsar. But why is the same courtesy not extended to all places they visit? Do only the divine merit courtesy, cleanliness and calm? The public's behaviour at these places show that Indians can be model visitors when we want to be.At Kamarpukur and Joyrambati it is hard to be anything but ideal visitors, though. There's something about the cumulative effect of their soothing tranquillity broken only by birdsong and trees rustling in the autumn breeze, the fresh flowers artfully arranged around the statues of Sri Ramkrishna and Maa Sarada Devi, and the smiling sanyasis telling stories of the divine couple's limitless humanity and humbleness... On the journey back to Kolkata, our hearts were full.
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West Bengal: 9-year-old girl strangled to death over jewellery in Murshidabad; teenager detained
A nine-year-old girl was allegedly strangled to death in West Bengal's Murshidabad district over her gold earrings and silver jewellery. Police have detained a 15-year-old girl in connection with the murder, which reportedly took place...
Fresh FIR registered against Abhishek Banerjee; summons served for questioning on Nov 20
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) A fresh First Information Report (FIR) was registered on Friday against Trinamool Congress (TMC) National General Secretary and Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha MP Abhishek Banerjee at the Girish Park Police Station in North Kolkata, accusing him of making derogatory remarks and threatening a serving Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. A notice summoning Banerjee for questioning was served at his residence late Friday evening, directing him to appear at the Girish Park Police Station by 12 noon on November 20. According to police sources, the case was registered based on a complaint lodged by a local woman who alleged that Banerjee, nephew of former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, had obstructed police functioning by issuing threats and making derogatory comments against a serving IPS officer and other police personnel in the state. The controversy stems from remarks made by the Diamond Harbour MP last month regarding state police officials, including West Midnapore Superintendent of Police Papia Sultana, without explicitly naming them. During a public interaction caught on camera last month, Banerjee had warned that the names of allegedly biased police officers were being noted and that necessary action would be taken against them in the future. He had also made personal remarks directed at the West Midnapore SP without naming her, alleging that she was framing TMC leaders and workers in false cases to appease Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. There was no immediate reaction from Banerjee or the Trinamool Congress leadership regarding the fresh FIR and summons at the time of filing this report.
Kolkata Durga Puja pass scam: Court extends police custody of mass art executive till Nov 17
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) A lower court in Kolkata on Friday extended till November 17 the police custody of Dhrubojyoti Basu, alias Subho, a top executive of Mass Art, the corporate entity through which fake UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja passes were allegedly sold. Basu was arrested on November 4 and remanded to police custody until Friday by the same court on November 5. Following a hearing on Friday afternoon, the court extended his remand for four more days. During the proceedings, Basu's counsel did not move a bail petition, informing the court instead that his client was willing to cooperate with the ongoing police investigation. Seeking an extension of custody until November 18, the public prosecutor submitted that investigators had conducted searches at multiple locations, including Basu's office, during his initial remand. A total of 21 documents were seized. The investigating officers have received sufficient evidence. After questioning Dhrubojyoti, the names of some organisations have surfaced, which need to be investigated, the prosecutor told the court. Mass Art is owned by Madhuchhanda Sen, the wife of former West Bengal Tourism and Information & Cultural Affairs Minister Indranil Sen. The singer-turned-politician was arrested by the Kolkata Police on October 28 for his alleged involvement in the fake pass racket and is currently remanded in judicial custody. Both his wife and daughter, Avery Sen, have also been questioned by city police in connection with the probe. Alongside the Kolkata Police investigation, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is conducting a parallel money laundering probe against the former minister. Sen was arrested by city police on the evening of October 28 immediately after exiting the ED's Salt Lake office following hours of interrogation by central agency officials. The police investigation was initiated based on an FIR registered at the Bowbazar Police Station following a complaint lodged by Joydeep Mukherjee, who accused Sen and his associates of orchestrating the scam. Meanwhile, Mukherjee's counsel on Friday moved a plea before the same court seeking police protection for his client, alleging that the complainant has been receiving death threats since Sen's arrest. The court has sought a report from the police on the matter.
Constable Shot In Birbhum, Accused Flees
A police constable was injured after being shot in the leg by an accused during an arrest attempt in West Bengal's Birbhum district on Friday. The accused managed to flee the scene, and an investigation is currently underway.
Once Hungry Herself, Kajuli Now Feeds Nearly 100 People Every Day Across West Bengal
After experiencing childhood hunger and personal hardships, Kajuli Biswas turned her struggles into a mission to provide daily meals to nearly 100 people in West Bengal.
Odisha CM highlights Kudumi heritage, reaffirms commitment to communitys development
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Nov 13 (IANS) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday lauded the Kudumi communitys ancient traditions, hard work and love for nature, and assured it of the state governments firm commitment to its economic, social and cultural development. CM Majhi made the remarks while addressing a mega cultural programme of the Kudumi community, National Bandana Parab-2026, organised in Mayurbhanj district on Friday. On the auspicious occasion, the Chief Minister extended his warm greetings and congratulations to all members of the Kudumi community. He reaffirmed the government's firm commitment to the social, economic, educational and cultural development of the Kudumi community as part of the State's inclusive development model. Speaking on the occasion, Majhi said, Bandana is not merely a festival but a living poem of the deep bond between nature, the soil, cattle wealth and human relationships. This symbol of nature worship, reverence for agrarian culture and devotion to the soil is the very soul of our culture. He further said the Kudumi community are son of the soil, and their dedication and hard work in making the land fertile and productive offered valuable lessons for society. The unique way in which this community worships nature as a mother and lives in harmony with trees and plants, hills, rivers and streams, and the animal kingdom offers a guiding example for the entire human society, Majhi noted. Praising the bond between the Santhal and Kudumi communities in the Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj regions, the Chief Minister said brotherhood has always occupied a place of prominence in tribal culture. Recalling his childhood days growing up alongside Kudumi families in his village, he shared fond memories of visiting Dhenguan, a traditional community procession or ritual associated with the Bandana festival and enjoying traditional pithas (rice cakes). He also acknowledged the significant role played by members of the Kudumi community as his associates in the political sphere. The Chief Minister highlighted the Kudumi communitys history and social contributions, noting that it is spread across Odisha, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat and Maharashtra. He said Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar emerged as the principal settlements of the community after the formation of the separate Odisha province, while Baripada came to be known as the unofficial capital of Odisha's Kudumi community. Describing the Kudumis as self-respecting, loyal and patriotic, he said the community believes in overcoming challenges through hard work and has made its mark in agriculture, trade and other professions. He also referred to the community's long-standing demands for ST status and inclusion of Kudumali in the Constitutions Eighth Schedule.
Bengal special summary revision draft roll to be out on Nov 23
Kolkata: The Election Commission will publish the draft electoral rolls for West Bengal on November 23, with the final voters list scheduled to be released on January 16, 2027, as part of a Special Summary Revision (SSR), a statement said on Friday, November 13. The revision will be conducted with January 1, 2027, as 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 .
The Election Commission of India (ECI) will publish the draft electoral rolls for West Bengal on November 23, 2026, with the final voters list scheduled for release on January 16, 2027, as part of its Special Summary Revision (SSR) exercise. According to an official statement issued by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) [] The post West Bengal Draft Voter List to Be Published on November 23, Final Electoral Rolls on 16 January 2027 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Bengal draft voter list on Nov 23, final electoral rolls on Jan 16
The Election Commission will publish the draft electoral rolls for West Bengal on November 23, with the final voters' list scheduled to be released on January 16, 2027, as part of a Special Summary Revision (SSR), a statement said on Friday. The revision will be conducted with January 1, 2027, as the qualifying date, allowing those who turn 18 by then to enrol as voters, it said. According to the schedule announced by the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office, electors can submit claims and objections between November 23 and December 22. The disposal of applications will be completed by January 8. Special campaign days will be held at designated polling stations across the state on November 28 and 29, and December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20 to facilitate public participation, the statement said. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will be available at polling stations on these days to assist voters with fresh enrolment, correction of particulars and submission of claims and objections. Boot
Amit Shah to chair 28th meeting of Eastern Zonal Council in Odisha on November 29
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to chair the 28th meeting of the Eastern Zonal Council in Odisha on November 29, covering a wide range of issues of national importance such as implementation of Fast Track Special Courts for speedy trial and speedy disposal of rape cases against women and children, among others. Issues like brick-and-mortar banking facilities within the designated radius of each village, implementation of Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112) and various issues of common interest at the regional level, including nutrition, education, health, power, urban planning and strengthening of cooperative systems, are also learnt to be discussed in the day-long meeting. The Eastern Zonal Council comprises the states of Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. The meeting is learnt to be attended by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari...
CID to probe fake beneficiaries, recommenders in ex-Trinamool govt housing scheme: CM Adhikari
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the state police will investigate the fake beneficiaries and their recommenders in the 'West Bengal Awas Yojana', the state governments own housing scheme during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress regime, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Friday. The scheme was named Banglar Bari during the previous Trinamool Congress regime, which was renamed 'West Bengal Awas Yojana' after the new BJP-ruled state government led by Adhikari took over. The SIT announcement was made by CM Adhikari in the afternoon at the state secretariat of Nabanna in a programme on the distribution of financial assistance provided to over seven lakh genuine beneficiaries of West Bengal Awas Yojana. Already, 57,000 fake beneficiaries have been identified, and all of them will be punished. So far, 1,000 fake beneficiaries have returned the money they received. I am asking those who are not the rightful and genuine recipients to return the money. We will form an SIT of the CID to investigate the matter. If anyone at the official level is involved in recommending the fake beneficiaries, departmental action will be taken against them, the Chief Minister said. He also said that an instalment of Rs 60,000 under the West Bengal Awas Yojana will be deposited in the accounts of seven lakh beneficiaries on Friday. Earlier, 10 lakh beneficiaries received the second instalment of housing, CM Adhikari said. He also launched a scathing attack against the previous ruling dispensation for carrying out false propaganda before the Assembly election earlier this year, that all welfare schemes in the state would be stopped if the BJP came to power. The previous ruling party claimed that if the government changed, all welfare schemes in the state would be stopped. We have proved that it is false. We do not give money based on caste, religion, or community. We want those who left their housework half-done to be able to complete it. The previous government claimed that we will not form a new pay commission or give dearness allowances to state government employees. We have proved that wrong, the Chief Minister said. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister also claimed that the District Magistrates have been directed to ensure that those who build houses with West Bengal Awas Yojana funds do not have to spend more than Rs 1,200 to purchase sand.
Forming fact-finding panel by agitating students unauthorised, aimed at fomenting tension: SRFTI
The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, since September 27, has been investigated by a special investigation team constituted by the West Bengal government
West Bengal Pilgrim Bus Collides with Truck in Jajpur, Several Hurt
Nine passengers sustained injuriestwo of them criticallyafter a tourist bus carrying approximately 55 pilgrims from West Bengal collided with a stationary truck in Odishas Jajpur district early Friday morning. The mishap occurred on the Badachana Bridge along National Highway-16 (NH-16), under the jurisdiction of the Badachana police station. According to preliminary reports, the ill-fated bus, [] The post West Bengal Pilgrim Bus Collides with Truck in Jajpur, Several Hurt appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
EBITDA rises 59.79% to 26.69 Cr, powered by robust demand for lightweight 22K and 18K gold jewellery and an expanding B2B partner network Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], November 13: Pushpa
Following the bulldozer action at Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee's residence, West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Friday asserted that any form of illegal encroachment was being removed, adding that Banerjee was ot intentionally targeted. The West Bengal minister also flagged the shortage of roads and footpaths in Kolkata, and said that illegal constructions are being demolished in many places. Speaking to ANI, he said, Any form of illegal encroachment is being removed. There is a shortage of roads and footpaths in Kolkata; if someone constructs a building in such areas, it causes inconvenience to the general public. This is happening everywhere
The Calcutta High Court on Thursday took strong exception to remarks made by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee allegedly suggesting that a section of the judiciary was acting under the influence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Justice Krishna Rao, while hearing Banerjees petition challenging the West Bengal governments decision to downgrade his security [] The post Name the judges who are with BJP: Calcutta High Court questions Abhishek Banerjee over remarks against Judiciary appeared first on India Legal .
Bulldozer Action Outside Abhishek Banerjees Home Sparks Controversy in Kolkata
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh defends bulldozer action against illegal constructions, stating its a broader issue beyond Abhishek Banerjee. Bulldozer Action Outside Abhishek Banerjees Home Sparks Controversy in Kolkata
Kolkata Police file chargesheet in hotel fire case, name three
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) Kolkata Police informed on Friday that their investigating team probing the devastating fire at Hotel Shikha Inn on Mirza Ghalib Street, which killed nine people, including a child, on the intervening night of August 18 and 19, had submitted the chargesheet in the case. In the chargesheet filed at a lower court in Kolkata on Thursday, three persons have been named. The first name in the chargesheet is Bireshwar Moitra, the original owner of the hotel Shikha Inn, where the fire tragedy happened. The second person named in the chargesheet is Abu Zafar, who took the hotel on lease from Moitra. The third person named in the chargesheet is Abus wife, Saba Zafar, who was the last to be arrested by the city police last month after she had been absconding since the tragedy took place. The chargesheet contains recorded statements of 90 witnesses, said a city police official. The accused have been charged under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, relating to involuntary murder, attempted involuntary murder, endangering life and conspiracy. A forensic report has also been submitted along with it. The 350-page chargesheet also highlights the horror of the incident. The chargesheet mentions how the originally bigger hotel rooms were demolished and converted into multiple smaller rooms. Almost every room had AC. Installing so many ACs without following any rules resulted in an overload of electricity. The fire spread from the board and started consuming the rooms, the city police officer said. The chargesheet also stated that the building, which housed several hotels, including Shikha Inn, was actually a residential complex that was illegally converted into a hotel later, without the permission of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and the West Bengal Fire Services Department authorities. The fire broke out on the third floor of the building housing Hotel Shikha Inn and several other lodges. The hotel rooms quickly filled with thick smoke, causing most of the nine victims to die of suffocation. The majority of those who lost their lives were Bangladeshi nationals visiting Kolkata for medical treatment. The original hotel owner, Bireshwar Moitra, initially fled after the incident but was arrested shortly after at his residence in Behala, on Kolkata's southern outskirts. During interrogation, he disclosed that he had leased the hotel to Abu Zafar and his wife, Saba Zafar, for a monthly rent of Rs 40,000. While police arrested Abu shortly after, Saba managed to evade capture until her arrest on October 28.
Bengal man arrested in Delhi in Anjali Sau death case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) West Bengal Police have arrested the boyfriend of 26-year-old Anjali Sau from Baranagar in North 24 Parganas, outside a railway station in Delhi, in connection with the murder of Sau, state police informed on Friday morning. Police sources said the arrested youth is named Dharambir. He was reportedly arrested outside Delhi's Anand Vihar railway station. He has been identified as the main accused in the incident. The operation to arrest Dharambir was led by a sub-inspector of Baranagar police station. Barrackpore Police Commissariats Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Kuntal Banerjee said the accused is being brought from Delhi on Friday, and more details will be revealed after getting information from the arrested accused. Saus body was recovered on the night of November 10, from the residential flat of a five-storey housing cooperative on the night of November 10. The body was recovered in a lying position. There were also injury marks. The cause of death was a mystery. It is learnt that the deceased's sister and brother-in-law had been living in that flat for the last four years. The brother-in-law is now a resident of Sreerampore in Hooghly district, and Sau used to live in that flat in Baranagar from time to time. Her own house is in the nearby Dunlop area. Her brother-in-law also used to visit the flat from time to time. On Monday, the flat owner, i.e., Sau's brother-in-law, left the flat key with a neighbour. On November 10, in the afternoon, Sau entered the flat after taking the key from the neighbour. A couple of relatives of the deceased woman told police about their suspicion that her boyfriend might be involved in the mysterious death. He had been absconding since the body was recovered. Based on the location of the mobile tower and information from confidential sources, the investigators came to know that Dharambir had fled from Kolkata to Delhi. A special team of the police reached Delhi. Finally, the police were able to arrest Dharambir on the premises of Anand Vihar station in Delhi. The police suspect that Dharambir was visiting the young woman's flat because of his previous acquaintance. Investigators are investigating the exact reason for this brutal murder. They are trying to find out whether it was a personal grudge or some other mystery hidden behind it.
SBI General Insurance steps up road safety initiatives in Ladakh
Leh, Nov 12:SBI General Insurance has launched a road safety and emergency healthcare initiative in Ladakh in collaboration with humanitarian organisation Doers, the Ladakh Police and the Health Department to strengthen emergency medical response and promote safer roads in the region. As part of the initiative, the company handed over a fully equipped Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance to the Health Department on October 28 to ensure timely medical assistance to road accident victims during the critical golden hour. The ambulance was flagged off at Sonam Norboo Memorial (SNM) Hospital in Leh under the project titled Road Safety: Ambulances in the Indian Himalayan Region. Recognising the challenges posed by Ladakhs high-altitude terrain, long distances between settlements and extreme weather conditions, the initiative also focuses on accident prevention and improving road safety infrastructure. Under the programme, 40 retro-reflective road safety warning signboards have been installed at accident-prone locations identified in coordination with the Ladakh Police. The signboards are aimed at alerting motorists to potential hazards and encouraging safer driving practices, particularly on vulnerable stretches used by residents, tourists and other travellers. The flag-off ceremony was attended by Dr Laltinkhuma Franklin, IAS, Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department, Union Territory of Ladakh. Dr Rinchen Chosdol, Chief Medical Officer, Leh; Shatrughna Singh, Head of Compliance, SBI General Insurance; and Anuradha Bhardwaj, Head of Programmes, Doers, were also present, along with representatives of the concerned departments and organisations. Speaking on the initiative, Rathin Lahiri, Head-Marketing and CSR, SBI General Insurance, said timely emergency support could save lives in a region like Ladakh, where difficult terrain and long distances often delay access to medical care. He said the companys responsibility extended beyond providing insurance to supporting communities through interventions addressing critical needs on the ground. Through the initiative, SBI General Insurance aims to strengthen emergency response mechanisms and promote safer roads in Ladakh, while working in partnership with Doers, the Ladakh Police and the Health Department. The programme will also be extended to six other Himalayan statesHimachal Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Sikkim, Meghalaya and Uttarakhandto strengthen road safety measures and emergency medical response across the Himalayan region.
NIA team visits Kulgam attack site
Srinagar, Nov 12:The National Investigation Agency (NIA) team visited the site of Wednesdays attack on a CRPF checkpoint near Mir Bazar in Kulgam district on Thursday even as preliminary investigations indicated that at least three terrorists, two of them believed to be foreign nationals, were involved in the strike. A National Investigation Agency (NIA) team on Thursday visited the site of the terror attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) checkpoint in south Kashmirs Kulgam district, a senior police officer said. The team inspected the spot to gather forensic evidence and examine the circumstances surrounding the attack, in which three CRPF personnel were injured. The samples collected from the scene are expected to assist investigators in establishing the sequence of events and identifying those involved in the attack. Security forces have continued search operations in the area to trace the attackers. The preliminary investigation reveals that at least three terrorists were involved in the attack. Two of them seem to be foreign nationals, said senior police officer. We are reviewing the CCTV footage from the area to get a clear picture. There is a marshy patch in the area and the terrorists escaped using the cover of the trees and bushes. Officials said the attackers approached the checkpoint on foot from the marshy area about 50 metres away. After opening fire with AK-47 rifles, they fled on foot through the same tree line. The attack took place barely 2 km from the heavily guarded Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. The CRPF had earlier stated that the incident occurred around 2:15 pm when the assailants fired at its personnel of the 46th Battalion, deployed as a bridge guard, before fleeing the spot. The three injured CRPF personnel Head Constable Somveer Singh (Madhya Pradesh), Constable RakeshDass (Assam) and Constable Santosh Chandru (West Bengal) - were first rushed to Government Medical College, Anantnag, and later shifted to the Armys 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar. One sustained bullet wounds to the abdomen and spine and underwent surgery; the other two received injuries to the arm and leg. Two of the injured have since been discharged after treatment, while the critically injured jawan continues to receive advanced care. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the hospital to enquire about his condition. GOC 15 Corps, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, visited the spot to review the ongoing operations. Senior officers of the Army, CRPF and J&K Police are supervising the expanded search, guided by human and technical intelligence. A Motorola phone and SIM card were recovered from the site. Sources said investigators are examining the possibility that the attackers belong to a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) module operating in south Kashmir. At least three suspected overground workers (OGWs) of the LeT are being questioned, with agencies suspecting that at least one provided logistical assistance, including reconnaissance and shelter. Police sources also suspect the involvement of local terrorist Lateef Ahmad Bhat of Kulgam, earlier blamed for two attacks in July and described at the time as the only local militant active in the Valley. Cartridges recovered from the site matched those found in the earlier Killam incident. There are concerns within the security establishment that, even as local recruitment has declined, small groups of foreign terrorists assisted by local support networks retain the capacity for targeted attacks. The period preceding winter is considered particularly vulnerable as terrorists hiding in the higher reaches of the PirPanjal typically move to lower elevations before snowfall. Such movements are sometimes accompanied by attacks before they shift to winter hideouts. A senior security officer said the strike appeared part of an attempt by Pakistan-based groups to reactivate networks in Kashmir despite sustained counter-terrorism operations.
Baramulla, Nov 12:The season's first snowfall at the famous tourist resort of Gulmarg has brought cheer to visitors, offering them a glimpse of winter's magic as snow-covered mountain peaks transformed the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland. Snowfall in the upper reaches of Kashmir overnight on Wednesday and continuing into Thursday brought a noticeable chill to the Valley, while Gulmarg's snow-draped slopes offered visitors a spectacular glimpse of the winter season. At Gulmarg, tourists were seen soaking in the beauty of the snow-covered mountains, with many stepping outdoors to experience the snowfall and capture the moment on their phones. The cold breeze, white mountain slopes and occasional snowflakes made the experience particularly memorable for visitors. Kongdori, a popular tourist destination accessible through the Gulmarg Gondola, received a good amount of snowfall, adding to the excitement among tourists. Visitors were seen enjoying the falling snowflakes, clicking photographs and capturing videos against the backdrop of the snow-clad mountains. For several tourists, witnessing snowfall was an experience they had been eagerly waiting for. Many described themselves as fortunate to have visited Gulmarg at a time when the first flakes of the season were falling, saying the unexpected winter spectacle had made their trip even more special. Seeing snowfall for the first time is a great experience. We feel lucky to be among those who got the opportunity to witness it, said Yogesh, a tourist from West Bengal. A hotlier while talking to Greater Kashmir said that from the last two days, the tourist flow has abruptly increased. He said scores of vehicles full of tourists had thronged the Gulmarg and the fresh snowfall has drawn huge enthusiasm among the tourists. The tourist flux has increased suddenly. The snowfall experience is always tourists first choice, he said. The fresh snowfall has also added to Gulmarg's winter appeal, with the resort expected to attract more visitors as temperatures continue to fall. With the onset of winter and fresh snowfall, Gulmarg traditionally witnesses an increase in tourist arrivals, particularly among visitors keen to experience snow and enjoy the resort's scenic surroundings. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast fairly widespread to widespread rainfall and snowfall across Jammu and Kashmir on November 12 and 13 under the influence of a western disturbance. The weather department has also warned of isolated heavy rainfall on Thursday, while thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph, with gusts up to 60 kmph, are likely at isolated places. The IMD has forecast a significant fall in daytime temperatures, with the mercury expected to drop by 6-8 degrees Celsius during the two days. The precipitation is likely to continue over higher reaches, bringing further snowfall to the mountains.
West Bengal has witnessed a sudden, rapid spike in attacks on Christian home fellowships and churches since the summer of 2026, when the BJP government came to power in the State. Senjuti Sengupta and Shiv Sahay Singh report on the fear of the community that is less than 1% of the population in West Bengal
West Bengal has witnessed a sudden, rapid spike in attacks on Christian home fellowships and churches since the summer of 2026, when the BJP government came to power in the State. Senjuti Sengupta and Shiv Sahay Singh report on the fear of the community that is less than 1% of the population in West Bengal
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Bulldozer action outside Abhisheks home, MP writes to EC over docu theft plot
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday said it has attached immovable properties worth Rs 2.78 crore of ex-DCP Kolkata, Santanu Sinha Biswas, and his family members and associates in the case of history-sheeter Biswajit Poddar alias Sona Pappu and others. The attached properties include three flats located in Kolkata and land at Kandi in West Bengal's Murshidabad as Proceeds of Crime under PMLA 2002. The properties were attached under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. ED's Kolkata Zonal Office-II provisionally attached immovable properties of Santanu, his family members and associates in the case. ED investigation was initiated based on multiple FIRs registered by West Bengal Police against Sona Pappu and others involving complaints of murder, extortion and land-grabbing. Earlier, ED had conducted searches at multiple premises on April 1, April 19, April 26 and May 22 in Kolkata and nearby places, including the residential premises of Santanu, Jay S...
Bengal Police launch probe into Gaighata encounter incident
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) The West Bengal Police's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) will investigate the encounter of rape and murder accused Prahlad Das in Gaighata of North 24 Parganas district, a government official said on Thursday. A CID delegation led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)-rank officer inspected the crime scene earlier in the day. According to the government official, the investigators are trying to understand where the shooting took place and how the accused tried to escape. On October 25, the body of a 17-year-old girl was recovered in Gaighata. On October 24, the victim had gone to a jalsa near her home where her friends and family members were also present. The jalsa went on until late at night. Her family claimed that the girl received a call at around 11:30 p.m. on October 24. After receiving the call, she left the event following which she went missing. The girl's naked and injured body was recovered the next morning. The victim's family claimed that she was raped and murdered. After the initial investigation, the police arrested Prahlad Das, a distant relative of the girl, on the day the body was recovered. The police suspected that the youth had offered the girl physical intimacy. When the girl did not agree, he hit her on the head with a heavy object. When the girl lost consciousness, the accused tortured her. The youth fled the area leaving the girl in a bloody state. Police sources claimed that there were scuffles, nail scratches, etc. on her body. Police reconstructed the incident with the accused in the middle of the night. Police sources claimed that the accused attacked the policemen while returning after the reconstruction phase of the incident on the night of October 27. At one point, Prahlad snatched the policeman's revolver and ran away. Police claimed that he fired three rounds in which a policeman was injured. However, it is not known whether the policeman was shot or not. However, the police vehicle in which the accused was taken has a bullet mark. The source claimed that the police also fired four rounds in self-defence. Prahlad died in retaliatory fire by the police. This time, the CID has launched an investigation into the incident.
ED attaches assets worth Rs 2.78 cr belonging to ex-Kolkata Police DCP in Sona Pappu case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Kolkata Zonal Office has provisionally attached immovable properties worth Rs 2.78 crore belonging to former Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Santanu Sinha Biswas, his family members, and his associates in connection with the Sona Pappu money laundering case. In a statement issued on Thursday, the central agency confirmed that the assets, comprising three flats in Kolkata and parcels of land at Kandi in Murshidabad district, were attached as proceeds of crime under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The ED initiated its investigation based on multiple FIRs registered by the West Bengal Police against alleged criminal Biswajit Podder, alias Sona Pappu, and his associates involving charges of murder, extortion, and land-grabbing. Earlier in the probe, ED sleuths conducted coordinated raids across Kolkata and adjoining areas, searching the residences of Biswas, Jay S. Kamdar, and Podder. Those searches resulted in the seizure of Rs 1.64 crore in cash, gold jewellery, a Toyota Fortuner car, an unlicensed revolver, and various incriminating documents and digital devices. Following the raids, the agency arrested all three accused, who are currently remanded in judicial custody. According to the agency's findings, the proceeds of crime were generated through extortion, illegal real estate grabbing, and unauthorised construction carried out via entities controlled by Podder, Kamdar, and their associates. Investigators revealed that Biswas, who previously served as the Officer-in-Charge of Kalighat Police Station before his elevation as DCP, developed a close nexus with Kamdar during his stint at Kalighat and actively facilitated his illicit operations. Through this association, Kamdar allegedly wielded significant clout within the police establishment. The ED statement further noted that Biswas directly and indirectly acquired, concealed, and possessed proceeds of crime amounting to at least Rs 2.89 crore.
Calcutta HC expresses anguish over Abhishek Banerjee's derogatory remarks against judiciary
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) A single-judge vacation bench of the Calcutta High Court on Thursday expressed anguish over some reported derogatory comments made by the Trinamool Congress General Secretary and the party's Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee accusing a section of the Judiciary as iased. The occasion was the final hearing on a petition by Abhishek Banerjee, also the nephew of the former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, seeking restoration of his -Plus security. The final hearing was taking place at the single-judge vacation bench of Justice Krishna Rao. During the hearing in the matter, the state government Counsel and the state's Additional Advocate General, Billawdal Bhattacharya, drew the attention of the court to a recent social media message made by the Diamond Harbour MP accusing the Kolkata Police of maintaining constant surveillance around his residence and snooping on him. Bhattacharya claimed that in the social media message, Abhishek Banerjee made some remarks that directly challenged the country's judicial system and the dignity of the courts, and therefore he should be booked under contempt of court charges. I am submitting an interview of the plaintiff to the court. That interview amounts to contempt of court. He has insulted the judges, even mentioned their names. The court cannot be fooled like this. This is contempt of court. Criminal action should be taken against him (Abhishek Banerjee), the Additional Advocate General said. Thereafter, Abhishek Banerjee's Counsel said that his clients' comments were in the context of certain developments where petitions filed by him were pending before the the court for several months. Thereafter, Justice Rao expressed his displeasure after this comment. In very strict language, Justice Rao ordered Abhishek Banerjee's lawyer to submit a complete list of which judges are with the Bharatiya Janata Party and which are with the Trinamool Congress. Ask your client (Abhishek Banerjee) which judges are with the BJP and which are not! He thinks he is very intelligent. Ask him to give a list; I will look into it, Justice Rao said.
Calcutta HC reserves order on Abhishek Banerjee's plea for restoration of 'Z Plus' security
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) The hearing on the petition from Trinamool Congress General Secretary and the party's Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member, Abhishek Banerjee, seeking restoration of his -Plus security was completed at a single-judge vacation bench of the Calcutta High Court on Thursday. However, the single-judge vacation bench of Justice Krishna Rao had kept the judgement on reserve. Abhishek, also the nephew of the former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, had been enjoying the Plus security granted to him by the previous Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal led by his aunt since he became the Lok Sabha MP from Diamond Harbour for the first time in 2014. However, after the new Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government came to power in the state, Abhishek Banerjee's -Plus security was withdrawn and he was granted the security entitled to him as a Lok Sabha member as per protocol. Recently, the Diamond Harbour MP approached the Calcutta High Court with the plea for restoration of his -Plus security apprehended lie threats considering that already some assassination attempts had been made on him in the recent past. The hearing in the matter was completed on Thursday, and Justice Krishna Rao had reserved his judgment in the matter. During the hearing on Thursday, Justice Rao raised questions about the state administration's role in the state's security review process and the subsequent allegations of multiple attacks. The state government told the court that the decision on the category of security to be granted to anyone was their prerogative and it was not binding on the administration to explain its decisions in the matter. Thereafter, Justice Rao said that while the court will not direct which category of security should be granted to whom, since the plaintiff claimed that there was an attack on him and his security requirements were not reviewed, the court could seek explanations in the matter. Abhishek Banerjee's Counsel then said that till the time the security requirements of his client were not reviewed, till that time -Plus security should be granted to him.
West Bengal Chief Minister Accuses Opposition of Undermining Hindu Culture
CM Suvendu Adhikari criticizes previous governments for damaging Hindu traditions and vows to isolate political opponents. West Bengal Chief Minister Accuses Opposition of Undermining Hindu Culture
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the appointment of coordinators within municipal wards starting December 1. He criticised opposition parties for obstructing the electoral process due to fear of defeat and highlighted long-standing civic service deprivations. Adhikari pledged to approach the Supreme Court regarding delays in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation elections. Municipal officials are unable to fully substitute elected representatives, according to the Chief Minister.
Piyush Goyal to inaugurate 45th India International Trade Fair
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal is set to inaugurate the 45th India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2026, organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), on Friday at Bharat Mandapam here, an official statement said on Thursday. The event from November 14-27 will bring together more than 3,500 exhibitors from India and abroad across 17 halls, covering over 1,00,000 square metres of exhibition space. The first five days, from November 14-18, will be Business Days reserved for B2B visitors, and the Fair will open to the general public from November 19-27. It will witness participation from 32 states and Union Territories and 51 Central Ministries, Government Departments, PSUs and Public Sector Banks. Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh are the Partner States, while Assam, Delhi, Jharkhand and West Bengal are the Focus States. The participating States and UTs will showcase their regional products, local industries, traditional crafts, culture, tourism potential and development initiatives. International participation will include 11 countries, with pavilions featuring exhibitors from Thailand, Iran, Ghana, Nepal, Afghanistan, the UAE, Turkey, China, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, providing opportunities for international business engagement and trade linkages, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Jawed Ashraf, Chairman, India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), said that IITF 2026 will celebrate India's progress, diversity and heritage, with a special focus on youth through around 600 startups at the Hall of Inspiration and district-level crafts, cuisine and culture at the ODOP Pavilion. IITF 2026 will introduce new experiences for businesses and visitors alike. The Hall of Inspiration in Hall 14 will showcase around 600 Indian start-ups across deep-tech, agri-tech, drones, space, healthcare and edtech, providing young enterprises with visibility and opportunities to connect with wider markets. The One District One Product (ODOP) Pavilion will feature participation from 21 States and showcase signature crafts, cuisine, culture and products from districts across the country, highlighting local enterprise, traditional skills and the artisans behind them, the statement said. Beyond its role as a major trade exhibition, IITF continues to strengthen market access for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), startups and small traders by providing opportunities to showcase products, connect with potential buyers and explore new markets.
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'Chilling Reminder': Mamata Attacks BJP After TMC Leader Ujjal Biswas' Death
Former West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of pursuing a politics of vengeance, intimidation and persecution in Bengal following the death of senior TMC leader and former minister Ujjal Biswas, aged 72.In a post on X, Banerjee recalled Biswas' alleged ordeal, claiming he was brutally attacked, implicated in false cases and kept in custody for 49 days. She described his death as a deeply personal loss and criticised what she called the BJP's politics of political retribution.Biswas, a three-time MLA from Krishnanagar South, died at a Kolkata hospital on November 11 following multiple health complications.
Calcutta High Court reserves order on Abhishek Banerjee
The Calcutta High Court on Thursday reserved its order on a petition filed by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee challenging the West Bengal governments decision to downgrade his security cover from Z+ to X category following the change of government in the State. Justice Krishna Rao, while hearing the plea, questioned the State government [] The post Calcutta High Court reserves order on Abhishek Banerjees plea challenging downgrade of Z+ security cover appeared first on India Legal .
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) Following the terrorist attack in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress on Thursday termed the incident serious and expressed concern over the targeting of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, saying the Centre must take additional precautions to ensure the safety of lives and property in the region. Speaking to reporters, Punjab Congress in-charge Sachin Pilot said, This is serious, and I believe that regardless of who claims responsibility for law and order in Jammu and Kashmir, the Government of India has a responsibility to live up to those claims. Jammu and Kashmir is a very important and sensitive region. A terrorist attack of this nature, particularly the attack on the CRPF, is extremely dangerous. I believe the Government of India will have to take additional precautions to ensure the safety of lives and property in the region. Meanwhile, Congress leader Surendra Rajput termed the attack extremely tragic and wished a speedy recovery to the injured security personnel. He also held the BJP-led government responsible for the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir and questioned its handling of counter-terrorism operations. It is extremely tragic news. We wish a speedy recovery to all the soldiers who are injured. And the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is in power there. The BJP governs internal security there. The BJP is responsible for the protection of that area. What are they doing? Before demonetisation, they said terrorism had ended. Then incidents happened after Pulwama. After that, the Pathankot incidents happened. Then the Uri incidents happened. After that, incidents in Baisaran in Pahalgam, 26 people were killed. Kashmiri Hindus are being targeted. What is happening during the BJP's rule? Is the government during the BJP's rule so weak, so cowardly, and so incompetent that we are not even able to protect our own soldiers? If the Bharatiya Janata Party has any shame, if the Home Minister has any shame, he should resign after this incident, Rajput said. On the other hand, BJP MP Gulam Ali Khatana blamed Pakistan for continuing its alleged anti-India activities and said such attacks were aimed at diverting attention from its internal situation. ...Pakistan has still not stopped its despicable activities. It carries out such heinous acts to divert attention from its internal situation. It has already learned a lesson from Operation Sindoor. When the time comes, it will receive a response, he said. West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh said terrorism in Kashmir had almost come to an end, but acknowledged that some terrorists could still be hiding in the vast and difficult terrain. Terrorism in Kashmir has almost come to an end, but it is still a vast and difficult terrain, where some terrorists may be hiding. An investigation is underway. During a checking operation, terrorists attacked the Army personnel, who responded effectively. Any terrorists still hiding in the area will be tracked down, Ghosh said.
Forget chocolates and bicycles! Bengal father gifts son a Rs 2.3 crore BMW for good marks
A businessman from West Bengal's East Burdwan district has made headlines after gifting his Class 9 son a luxury BMW M4 Competition worth around Rs 2.30 crore. The father decided to fulfil his son's long-standing...
West Bengal: Passenger apprehended after threat alert on Kolkata-Mumbai Air India flight
One passenger was apprehended and handed over to the airport police following a threat alert involving an Air India flight scheduled to operate from Kolkata to Mumbai, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) said in a press note on Thursday. The incident involved Air India flight AI 2772 (Kolkata-Mumbai) on Wednesday (November 11). Following the threat alert shortly before its scheduled departure, the aircraft was moved to the isolation bay at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport in Kolkata as a precautionary measure. Security agencies immediately reached the spot and initiated necessary security checks in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOPs). According to sources, the aircraft had received a threat alert, following which airport authorities shifted it to the isolation bay to ensure the safety of passengers, crew members and airport personnel. The situation was subsequently assessed by the concerned security agencies. In an update issued on...
Suvendu-Abhishek feud keeps political temperatures high in West Bengal
The exchanges have drawn a direct challenge from Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, who has dared Mr. Abhishek to contest from Diamond Harbour in 2029, saying he would defeat him by a margin greater than the one by which he was elected in 2024
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Thursday expressed gratitude to the Centre and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving the state an opportunity to host the 19th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Kolkata from January 7 to 9, 2027, describing the event as a major opportunity to showcase a new Bengal before the world. Speaking to reporters in Kolkata, Ghosh said that following the political changes in West Bengal, the state had attracted global attention and that hosting the prestigious convention would provide an opportunity to strengthen its image. This is a great opportunity for Bengal. Following the changes that have taken place in Bengal, the entire world has its eyes fixed here. I thank the central government and Prime Minister Modi for giving Bengal the opportunity to host this event... The cooperation of all is needed to build a new Bengal. This is a major opportunity for us, he said. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that Prime Minister Nar...
West Bengal Weather Update: Light Rain Likely in Several Districts, Temperatures to Drop by 2
Kolkata, November 12, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): Most districts of West Bengal are expected to experience dry weather on Thursday. However, isolated areas of South Bengal may receive light West Bengal Weather Update: Light Rain Likely in Several Districts, Temperatures to Drop by 23C
