'Pass or fail' test for minorities? Suvendu Adhikari's big pitch ahead of Bengal bypolls
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has turned the upcoming Assembly by-elections in Nandigram and Rejinagar into a direct political message to minority voters, describing the October 6 contest as a est and asking them...
TheHindu Legal Fund, a right-wing outfit, had filed a complaint with West Bengal Home Secretary regarding IPS officer Bushra Banosvideo statement
On PM Modis birthday, West Bengal will light Blessing Lamps from 6 PM to 7 PM to honor his service and pray for his health. West Bengal to Light Blessing Lamp on PM Modis Birthday, Chief Minister Appeals to Citizens
Bengal Govt Transfers IPS Officer Bushra Bano After Assalam Aleikum Video Row
IPS officer Bushra Bano has been transferred by the West Bengal government days after a video she posted on X drew criticism from some right-wing organisations. Bano, who was serving as Additional SP of Kharagpur, has been posted as Deputy Commandant of the West Bengal Armed Police. In the September 13 video, she spoke about her UPSC journey and credited Aligarh Muslim Universitys Residential Coaching Academy for helping her prepare for the exam. Her use of Islamic expressions including Assalamualaikum, Inshallah and Jazakallah drew criticism from some social media accounts and organisations. Opposition leaders, including TMC MP Mahua Moitra, criticised the governments decision.
HC quashes Bengal Fire Services' eviction notice to Abhishek Banerjees Kolkata office
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 16 (IANS) A single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court on Wednesday quashed the notice of eviction served by the West Bengal Fire Services Department to the office of the Trinamool Congress general secretary and the partys Diamond Harbour MP, Abhishek Banerjee, on Camac Street in Central Kolkata. Previously, the Calcutta High Court had given an interim stay on the notice by the fire services department. The matter came up for hearing again on Wednesday, and at the end of the hearing, the single-judge bench of Justice Krishna Rao quashed the same notice. The single-judge bench directed the state fire services department to first serve a notice in advance to Trinamool Congress, intimating the date of inspection of the Camac Street office. Justice Rao ruled that the fire services department should inform the Trinamool Congress about the fire safety measures that were required to be adopted at the same office. Thereafter, according to the single-judge bench, Trinamool Congress will have to take the necessary steps for security and safety in accordance with those guidelines. If the Trinamool would not follow those guidelines even then, the fire services department would take appropriate action as per the legal provisions, ruled Justice Rao. The office of Abhishek Banerjee has been in the midst of controversy since last month after Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) staff and police removed an illegal billboard from the roof of the building. Trinamool workers led by Abhishek Banerjee, the partys Rajya Sabha member, Derek OBrien, and leaders like Humayun Kabir and Baishwanar Chatterjee got involved in scuffles with KMC staff and police personnel. Thereafter, three FIRs were registered at the local Shakespeare Sarani Police Station, naming Abhishek Banerjee, OBrien, Kabir and Chatterjee. At the same time, the officials from the state fire services department conducted a fire safety audit at the office and thereafter served an eviction notice.
Tripartite MoU to be signed next week for developing 4 more regional airports in Bengal
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 16 (IANS) A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) involving the Union Government, West Bengal Government and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for developing four more regional airports in West Bengal, will be signed next week. The tripartite MoU will be signed at the main auditorium at the state secretariat, Nabanna on September 23, said a West Bengal government official. The proposed sites of the four regional airports are Chharra in Purulia district, Balurghat in South Dinajpur district, Hasimara in Alipurduar district and Kalaikunda in West Midnapore district. Hasimara and Kalaikunda are also important bases of the Indian Air Force. The state government will be responsible for providing the land, electricity, water and other services for the projects. The Union government will look after the development of airport infrastructure, and the Airports Authority of India will look after the air traffic. The MoU will be signed in the presence of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu, West Bengal Transport Minister Arjun Singh, Chief Secretary, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, Secretary of the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, Chairman of the Airports Authority of India and MPs and MLAs from the respective districts are expected to be present on the occasion, said a senior state government official. According to him, the signing of this MoU will pave the way for further strengthening of air connectivity infrastructure and regional air services in Purulia, South Dinajpur, Alipurduar and West Midnapore. As per the Regional Connectivity Scheme of the Union Government, the state government will take responsibility for the necessary land, connecting roads, power supply, water supply and basic security as per the agreement. On the other hand, the Union government will build the basic infrastructure of the airport, the state government official said. It is learnt that the initial work for the project at Chharra in Purulia district has already progressed a lot. The airport was built in 1942 for military needs during World War-II. It was actively used until 1945. However, since then it has been completely abandoned. Although initiatives had been taken to start this airport again in the Left Front regime of West Bengal, the work did not progress much then.
Their mindset needs a change: Dilip Ghosh hits back at Cong over BRICS dinner menu
Digital Desk | Newtown, Sep 16 (IANS) West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Wednesday hit back at Congress over its criticism of the vegetarian menu served at the BRICS Summit dinner, saying that those who actually attended the dinner had no complaints and praised the Indian cuisine. The menu served at the high-profile dinner at the BRICS Summit drew criticism from Congress leaders, who accused the BJP-led government of attempting to promote vegetarianism. The dinner featured more than 10 dishes, including starters such as Khumb Galauti, while the dessert section included Shahdoot Firni and fruit cream with jalebi. The main course comprised entirely vegetarian dishes, including paneer, mushrooms, millet pulao and beetroot raita, prepared with contemporary variations. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, in a post on social media platform X, said, For the record: 80 per cent of Indians are non-vegetarian. Indian non-vegetarian food is delicious. As are my sister's chole bhature. Reacting to the criticism, Ghosh said Congress leaders should focus on issues concerning the people rather than questioning the food served to foreign delegates. Congress has given nothing to the people; it has only looted them. If the public feels it is too much, they will protest. They jump into everything, even expressing concern over what foreign guests will be served at BRICS, asking why beef or chicken wasn't served. Everyone from Rahul Gandhi to Chidambaram had an issue with it. But those who actually ate had no problem; they went home praising the Indian food. So, their mindset needs a change, Ghosh told reporters. Ghosh also commented on the proposed 0.4 per cent charge on certain UPI merchant transactions exceeding Rs 2,000, saying that a nominal fee could help maintain the digital payments system and generate revenue. Any company providing services charges a fee. The governments UPI service has provided great convenience, so a minimal fee should be charged to maintain system discipline and generate revenue, he said. According to the new UPI Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) framework, a 0.4 per cent charge will apply to eligible merchant transactions above Rs 2,000, while person-to-person transactions will remain outside the charge. The new framework is scheduled to come into effect from October 15. The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has outlined the provisions in its updated rules for Unified Payments Interface (UPI). The charge has been capped at Rs 300 per transaction. The Finance Ministry has also advised banks to ensure that merchants do not pass the additional cost on to consumers. Ghosh further claimed that efforts to curb the illegal exploitation of natural resources in West Bengal had contributed to higher state revenue. Natural resources like coal, sand, and timber in Bengal were being looted for years without yielding revenue for the state. Curbing this theft has led to a 33 per cent increase in government revenue, and this positive trend will continue, he said.
ED raids six locations in Kolkata in chit fund scam case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 16 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) was conducting simultaneous raids and search operations at six locations in Kolkata on Wednesday in connection with a multi-crore chit fund case. Sources aware of the development said a team of ED officials, accompanied by the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), reached the house of a businessman in the Narkeldanga area in North Kolkata at around 7 a.m. It is learnt that the said businessman collected public deposits promising lucrative returns and invested them in various sectors. Later, five other teams of ED, the investigation arm of the Union Finance Minister, conducted raids at five other locations in North and South Kolkata in connection with the same chit fund case. Sources said the public deposits were collected in the name of a Ponzi entity, APM Group, which collected money and invested in various sectors, but through another corporate entity that mainly acted as a shell company. It is learnt that raids and search operations were conducted on charges of embezzlement of money deposited in that chit fund scheme. According to sources, in addition to the residence of the Ponzi entity's owner, similar raids are also being conducted at the houses of the owners linkmen. Sources said that the modus operandi of the forgery by the said entity was the same -- where first huge public deposits were collected through different multi-level marketing schemes promising investors of lucrative returns, and then the collected money was invested in different sectors through a shell entity. These public deposits, sources said, were collected without proper authorisation from the concerned regulatory authorities. At the time the report was filed, the raid and search operations at the six locations were continuing, and ED officials were also questioning different persons linked to the Ponzi entity. Since 2012, West Bengal has been a hotbed of Ponzi entities, including Sudipto Sen-owned Saradha Group and Gautam Kundu-owned Rose Valley Group, among others. The ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have been conducting separate probes into the activities of many such entities for a long time, and have also arrested several top leaders of Trinamool Congress for links to them.
Delhi-NCR braces for another rainy day as IMD forecasts thunderstorms, lightning
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 16 (IANS) Delhi-NCR is likely to remain partly cloudy on Wednesday, with rain and thunderstorms expected in several areas as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast continued wet weather across the region and adjoining parts of northwest India. The national capital and neighbouring regions are likely to experience another spell of unsettled weather on Wednesday, with thunderstorms and lightning possible at isolated places. The IMD has forecast isolated heavy rainfall over Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and Punjab. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also likely at isolated locations in Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Punjab and Uttarakhand. The weather system could result in short spells of rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds in some areas, rather than continuous rainfall throughout the day. The wet conditions are expected to continue into Thursday, with the IMD forecasting fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and Punjab on Wednesday and Thursday. Isolated areas could also receive heavy rain during this period. Bihar is also likely to witness rain and thunderstorm activity on Wednesday. Several parts of the state may receive showers, while thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are possible in some areas. Odisha is expected to experience partly cloudy conditions with rain and thunderstorms in several districts. The IMD has warned of lightning and thunderstorm activity, along with the possibility of gusty winds in some parts of the state. In Rajasthan, weather conditions are likely to shift from partly sunny skies to increased cloud cover, followed by rain and thunderstorms in some areas. The IMD has issued thunderstorm and lightning warnings for both East and West Rajasthan, with gusty winds likely at isolated places. Himachal Pradesh is likely to remain partly cloudy, with scattered showers mainly expected during the afternoon. Temperatures are likely to remain relatively moderate, although weather conditions could stay unsettled in some parts of the state. Haryana is expected to witness rain, with thunderstorms possible during the morning and thundery showers likely in the afternoon. Uttar Pradesh may experience cloudy periods, with light rain in the morning followed by brief showers in the afternoon. Thunderstorms could occur at isolated places, prompting residents to exercise caution during lightning and sudden downpours. Uttarakhand is likely to receive light to moderate rain and thundershowers at a few places. The IMD has warned of thunderstorms with lightning and intense to very intense spells of rainfall at isolated locations, particularly in the hill districts. The rainfall activity is expected to extend beyond northwest India. Heavy rain is likely at isolated places over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya, Kerala, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal on September 16.
CBI Arrests Four in Bribery Case Involving Government Officials in Howrah Hotel
The CBI has arrested four individuals, including two government officials, in a bribery case linked to a hotel in Howrah, West Bengal. CBI Arrests Four in Bribery Case Involving Government Officials in Howrah Hotel
Reverse flow: Now, India set to export 700 tonnes of prized hilsa to Bangladesh
Bhaipo gang funded my aides murder: Suvendu
Clean-up drive at airport smoking rooms after plaint
70-year-old accused of being Bangladeshi gets bail
The Election Commission of India has not yet decided on the Trinamool Congress symbol row. Nominations for the West Bengal bypolls close today, September 16. The Election Commission will meet on September 17 to discuss the symbol dispute. Both Mamata Banerjee and Ritabrata factions are contesting the October 6 bypolls. The bypolls are now set to turn into a five-cornered fight.
Sugar price may drop to 50/kg before festive season: Min
Addiction free campaign at CISCE schools
Slain CM aide's mother Hasirani Rath is BJP's Nandigram face for West Bengal bypoll
Hasirani Rath, mother of a slain former aide, is the BJP candidate for Nandigram. She aims for a victory margin exceeding one lakh votes in the upcoming bypoll. Her son was allegedly murdered by supari killers for assisting Suvendu Adhikari. The CBI is investigating the murder and has filed a chargesheet. Adhikari stated that Hasirani Rath is a long-time party worker.
Remove encroachments from pavements: Minister Agnimitra in Salt Lake
HS Council reschedules Sept 22 exams to Oct 13
Operators want official stamp on hiked bus fare
CU extends exam form deadline for Surendranath Law College, vice-president returns to campus
Man held for snatching gold chain at S Kolkata market
Man files plaint after robbery at gunpoint
Teens bodies found 2 days after drowning in the Mahananda
Kolkata STF arrests woman, seizes heroin worth Rs 81L
100-kg gold ensemble to dazzle crowds at Siliguri puja
Met predicts more rain from today
10 restaurants get reopen nod, green signal likely for 12 others
CBI submits 13th probe status report in RG Kar case
HC upholds Bagbazar Puja committee vote process
Saffron makeover for 20K police volunteers
Parallel Durga Puja body springs up, Rudranil named chief adviser
Dum Dum factory reopens after extortion row, 2 held
Bangla film shot during lockdown wins top prize at Kolkata festival
Cops to use sliding barriers to control puja crowd
3 sergeants grilled in truck bribery probe
Forest entry fee returns, treasury deposit sparks confusion
Azharuddin reacts to IPS officer
Hyderabad: Telangana Minority Welfare Minister Mohammed Azharuddin on Tuesday, September 15, questioned the transfer of Bushra Bano, an Indian Police Service Officer in West Bengal, over her greetings in a video. In a post on X, Azharuddin said the transfer was concerning. An IPS officer is reportedly transferred after a complaint over saying Assalamualaikum and 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 .
Science Congress picks 215 research papers, abstracts in English & Bengali
Two 'ragpickers' arrested for stealing expensive cameras from Kolkata studio
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 15 (IANS) Two persons were arrested in West Bengal's South 24 Parganas district for stealing expensive DSLR cameras and other equipment from a photography studio in Kolkata's Jadavpur area while disguised as ragpickers, police said on Tuesday. The two criminals, identified as Qayum Sheikh and Lutfar Sheikh, were arrested in Ghutiari Sharif after they tried to sell the stolen goods. According to the police, the arrested duo frequently came to Kolkata by early morning train with a sling on their shoulders, got down at any station they wanted between Garia and Ballygunge in south Kolkata, and roamed the streets dressed as ragpickers, while keeping an eye on houses and shops they could target. The studio in Jadavpur had caught their attention. During the day, they looked at the cameras and other equipment kept there from the outside under the pretext of collecting papers. After this, late at night, they returned, broke the lock of the back door of the studio to enter and take away all the expensive cameras, flashlights, stands, tripods, and other accessories. Lutfar and Qayum reached their camp in Ghutiari Sharif from Jadavpur station with the stolen goods. On the very next day, they tried to sell the stolen cameras and things. Meanwhile, the studio owner filed a complaint with Jadavpur police station about the theft of these expensive items. A detective team from Lalbazar started its investigation and initially identified the two persons after scanning the CCTV footage of the area. As the news of the duo trying to sell off the stolen goods reached the detectives, they set a trap for the thieves. Qayum and Lutfar were caught while trying to sell expensive cameras cheaply. A search was conducted at their tent, and the entire haul of the stolen goods was recovered. It is their job to steal expensive items while pretending to be ragpickers. Both the arrested persons are being interrogated to find out whether anyone else besides the two is involved in this and whether there is a big gang behind it, a senior Kolkata Police officer said.
HC Seeks Report On Baruipur Encounter
The Calcutta High Court has directed the West Bengal government to submit an affidavit within two weeks regarding the investigation into the encounter killing of an accused in the rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl in Baruipur. The court also ordered the preservation of all related documents and CCTV footage.
Complaint filed against WB Medical Council officials over rise in fake doctors
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 15 (IANS) The secretary of the Association of Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes (APHN), Rajeev Pandey, has lodged a complaint with the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate seeking an investigation into senior officials of the West Bengal Medical Council (WBMC) over the alleged increase in registrations of fake doctors in the state. The complaint names the council's president Sudipta Roy, secretary Sushanta Roy, registrar Manas Chakraborty, council member and former Trinamool Congress MLA Nirmal Maji, among others. It is learnt that Kaushik Chaki, president of the West Bengal Doctors Forum (WBDF), has also approached the police, while several other medical bodies are reportedly considering similar action. According to APHN, the Medical Council plays a crucial role in verifying credentials and preventing unqualified individuals from entering medical practice. The organisation alleged that due to the council's failure to discharge this responsibility, registrations of fake doctors increased steadily between 2017 and 2025. It further claimed that repeated alerts from district health authorities regarding such cases did not elicit any effective action from the council. The association alleged that several individuals posing as doctors managed not only to practise medicine but also secured registration under the state's Swasthya Sathi health scheme. It contended that many of the accused claimed to have graduated from medical colleges outside West Bengal and subsequently obtained permission to practise in the state, raising questions about the scrutiny exercised by the council. In his complaint, Rajeev Pandey requested the police to investigate whether the alleged irregular registrations could have occurred without the knowledge or patronage of the council's officials. APHN also alleged that attempts were made to remove or destroy relevant documents from the council office, a charge that has been strongly denied by the council leadership. Responding to the allegations, Sudipta Roy said the present council took charge only in November 2022 and questioned why it was being linked to events that allegedly occurred earlier. He denied any attempt to remove documents, asserting that electronic copies of all records are maintained and suggested that the allegations were politically motivated. Countering the claim, Rajeev Pandey maintained that several of the registrations under scrutiny were issued in 2023, 2024 and 2025, during Sudipta Roy's tenure as president, and said the council must answer the questions being raised over the alleged irregularities.
West Bengal withdraws approval for Akshaya Patra to provide mid-day meals in four districts
The BJP govt. has not given any reason for the withdrawal; the move comes after a major controversy over the mid-day meal programme under Akshaya Patra dropping eggs from the menu
West Bengal withdraws approval for Akshaya Patra to provide mid-day meals in four districts
The BJP govt. has not given any reason for the withdrawal; the move comes after a major controversy over the mid-day meal programme under Akshaya Patra dropping eggs from the menu
Annamrita Foundation Expands Midday Meal Services Across West Bengal
Annamrita Foundation, supported by ISKCON, is expanding its midday meal services in West Bengal, enhancing nutrition for local schools. Annamrita Foundation Expands Midday Meal Services Across West Bengal
Fake Doctor Arrested in Sonarpur, West Bengal Amid Police Investigation
A fake doctor was arrested in Sonarpur, West Bengal, after police uncovered discrepancies in his medical qualifications. Fake Doctor Arrested in Sonarpur, West Bengal Amid Police Investigation
Fake Doctor Arrested in Sonarpur, West Bengal
A fake doctor was arrested in Sonarpur, West Bengal, after police discovered discrepancies in his medical degrees during a raid. Fake Doctor Arrested in Sonarpur, West Bengal
How fish has BJP's plate full in West Bengal
Amidst the ongoing conversation regarding dietary customs within Hinduism during Durga Puja, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari engaged in prayer and enjoyed traditional bhog. He asserted that faith-based dietary choices should remain personal, asserting his own commitment to sattvik eating on designated days while also accepting fish and goat meat as temple prasad, demonstrating a multicultural approach.
West Bengal: Meat trader Mushtaq has not earned a single penny in over three months since the Suvendu Adhikari-led West Bengal government issued a notice on cattle slaughter. It was halted because of the elections, but there is no news about when it would be renewed, he told Al Jazeera, looking back when times were 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 .
Baruipur encounter: Calcutta HC directs preservation of CCTV footage
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 15 (IANS) The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday directed the West Bengal Police to preserve the CCTV footage related to the encounter killing of Pravas Mondal, a prime accused in the rage and murder of a minor girl at Baruipur in South 24 Parganas district in July this year. A division bench of Justices Arijit Banerjee and Reetobroto Kumar Mitra also directed the quick completion of the ongoing investigation process in the matter. The next hearing in the matter will be after three weeks, and as per the bench's ruling, the investigation process in the matter should be completed before then. In July this year, a minor girl went missing in the Suryapur area under Baruipur Police Station in South 24 Parganas. Later, her body was recovered from a pond in a bag. After that, Baruipur went into a state of siege for quite some time, following violent protests by a group of local people, in which an innocent youth was also lynched. The police arrested four persons, namely Pravas Mondal, Dibakar Sardar, Anand Sardar, and Kabir Mollah. On the night of July 7, the police went out to the scene of the crime along with Mondal to reconstruct the scene. It was claimed that at that time, the accused tried to escape after snatching the firearm of a police officer and even fired at the police team. He was killed as police retaliated. Officials of Baruipur Police District, where the scene of the crime falls, claimed that the investigating officer, Arghya Mandal, was forced to fire from his service weapon to save himself and his colleagues from Mondal. However, after several questions were raised about the encounter, the investigation of the incident was handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Meanwhile, a petition had also been filed at the Calcutta High Court demanding a central agency probe in the matter.
Weather Tomorrow: The Meteorological Department has released a new weather warning for various areas, forecasting heavy rain and thunderstorms nationwide. On Wednesday, thunderstorms and rain are expected in both Delhi-NCR and Bihar. Additionally, Rajasthan and Odisha are bracing for rain and strong winds, while Uttarakhand and West Bengal face alerts for rain and lightning activity.
BJP Confident of Winning Both Assembly By-elections in West Bengal: Sukanta Majumdar
Sukanta Majumdar expresses confidence in BJPs victory in upcoming by-elections in Nandigram and Rejinagar, set for October 6. BJP Confident of Winning Both Assembly By-elections in West Bengal: Sukanta Majumdar
Chief Minister Claims Nephew Gang Behind Aides Murder in West Bengal
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari alleges a nephew gang orchestrated the murder of his aide, Chandranath Rath, as political tensions rise. Chief Minister Claims Nephew Gang Behind Aides Murder in West Bengal
Adhikari Points Finger At 'Bhaipo Gang' In Rath Murder
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has accused the haipo gang, allegedly linked to TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee, of involvement in the murder of his personal assistant, Chandranath Rath. The allegations come as Rath's mother, Hasirani Rath, was nominated by the BJP for the Nandigram by-election. Adhikari claimed Rs 2 crore was spent on the murder and that the CBI investigation is progressing, with phone records and a money courier identified.
17 Trinamool rebel MPs to join BJP? Defection claim runs into legal, political hurdles
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) A recent comment by Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia, a first-time Lok Sabha member from Cooch Behar, that 17 rebel Trinamool Congress Parliamentarians are poised to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) before next months Durga Puja has set off a political storm in West Bengal. Despite drawing no support, being refuted, or being met with silence by colleagues, as well as BJP state leaders, his statement has reignited the debate on the Aya Ram, Gaya Ram (he comes; he goes) expression that is said to have originated in 1967 from Haryana, when then state Legislative Assembly member Gaya Lal shifted his party allegiances three times in two weeks. Though not as dramatic as Haryanas Gaya Lal, Basunia and 19 other Trinamool MPs broke away from the party following its defeat in the state assembly elections early this year. With the victorious BJP refusing to induct them, the rebels aligned themselves with the little-known Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), a party registered only in 2023 and virtually invisible in West Bengal politics. This move was widely interpreted as a tactical manoeuvre designed to avoid immediate disqualification under the anti-defection law. Months later, the Lok Sabha Speaker has not recognised NCPI as a separate Parliamentary group. At the time of writing, the official Lok Sabha website continues to list 28 Trinamool MPs, all elected under the partys symbol in the 2024 general election. Basunias dramatic claim has thus raised questions about its feasibility under Parliamentary rules and constitutional provisions. Experts point out that the rebels position is far more precarious than Basunias confident announcement suggests. The BJP itself has been quick to distance itself from the speculation. Under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, a group of legislators may avoid disqualification if at least two-thirds of them merge with another party. But such a merger must be formally recognised by the Speaker. Here, without that recognition, the rebels claim to immunity is legally fragile. The Trinamool Congress has already petitioned the Supreme Court seeking the removal of the 20 MPs, and the matter is under judicial consideration. In this context, Basunias now implying a second exodus appears premature. The BJPs own response underscores this caution. BJPs West Bengal unit president Samik Bhattacharya swiftly rejected Basunias claim, insisting that the BJP was not in talks to induct the rebels en masse. He stressed that the party would not admit leaders simply because they wished to join, hinting at both political and organisational concerns. Other BJP leaders have also expressed resentment at the idea of welcoming defectors from the Trinamool. Besides, the Trinamool rebels themselves appear far from united. Several MPs, including Satabdi Roy and Abu Taher Khan, have publicly contradicted Basunia, saying he was speaking in a personal capacity. Others have remained conspicuously silent, suggesting contradictions. Three of them, all MPs from Murshidabad district, Abu Taher Khan, Khalilur Rahman, and Yusuf Pathan, have been consistently refusing to consider joining the BJP, citing the religious and political composition of their constituencies. Though they have chosen to support the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), directly aligning with the BJP risks alienating their voter base in a district where Muslims comprise almost 70 per cent of the population. Incidentally, political observers believe the NCPI was used as a vehicle to park the MPs until the Speakers decision, allowing the BJP to avoid direct confrontation with the anti-defection law. Now, the longer the Speaker delays recognition, the more tenuous becomes the rebels position, where they are trapped in a limbo, with neither being fully part of the Trinamool nor officially acknowledged as members of the NCPI. This complicates Basunias claim of a grand migration to the BJP. Even if all 17 MPs were willing, the constitutional and procedural hurdles remain formidable. The Speakers discretion is paramount, and until he rules, the rebels cannot claim the protection of the two-thirds merger clause. The Supreme Courts pending judgment adds another layer of uncertainty. In effect, the rebels are caught between ambition and legality, their future hinging on decisions beyond their control. Basunias announcement, therefore, seems more like a claim than imminent reality. It may serve to keep the rebels in the headlines and pressure the Speaker to act, but it does not change Constitutional facts. A second exodus into the BJP thus appears uncertain until these hurdles are cleared, and for now, the path looks effectively blocked.
Suvendu Adhikari backs Hasirani Rath for record Nandigram bypoll win, puts minority voters to test
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari predicted a record victory for BJP candidate Hasirani Rath in Nandigram. He urged minority voters to support the BJP government in upcoming by-elections. Adhikari assured the people of Nandigram that all promises made would be fulfilled. The Chief Minister also pledged to withdraw false cases against BJP workers. He stated the government would work for the welfare and progress of West Bengal.
Calcutta HC grants interim protection from arrest to TMC MP Kirti Azad in extortion case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 15 (IANS) The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday granted interim protection from coercive police action, including arrest, to Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member Kirti Azad in an extortion case registered against the cricketer-turned-politician. While granting the relief, a single-judge bench of Justice Kaushik Chanda directed Azad to fully cooperate with the investigation being conducted by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the West Bengal Police. The court also said that, if necessary, the CID could summon Azad for interrogation by serving him a notice at least seven days in advance. The CID counsel told the court that Azad had been summoned for questioning at the agency's headquarters at Bhabani Bhaban in South Kolkata on September 22. According to the allegations, a businessman was called to Azad's bungalow in Durgapur on May 21 last year. An associate of Azad allegedly demanded Rs 15 lakh from the businessman. The businessman alleged that he was threatened with closure of his cooking gas business if he failed to pay the amount. He also claimed that the incident was recorded on audio. An FIR was subsequently registered against Azad and some of his associates. Azad has denied the allegations and described them as part of a conspiracy to malign him. The TMC MP from Bardhaman Durgapur Lok Sabha constituency claimed that he was not present in Durgapur on the day of the alleged incident. To support his claim, he submitted his flight details before the court. During the hearing of his anticipatory bail plea, Azad's counsel questioned the delay in registering the FIR, pointing out that it was lodged around 15 months after the alleged incident. The counsel also argued that there was no evidence to establish that Azad had received the alleged extortion amount. He submitted that Azad was willing to cooperate with the investigation and that his custody was not required for questioning. Azad has also approached the High Court seeking quashing of the FIR. The court's interim protection will continue subject to Azad's cooperation with the CID investigation. The agency's planned questioning on September 22 is part of the ongoing probe into the extortion allegations already in the case. Azad is among eight Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha members who continue to remain aligned with the party's former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and its national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.
Bengal govt withdraws Akshaya Patra Foundation's approval to serve Mid-Day Meals in 4 districts
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 15 (IANS) The Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari-led West Bengal government, has withdrawn approval given to Akshaya Patra Foundation, an arm of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), to serve Mid-Day Meals at state-run schools in four districts. The four districts where the approvals have been withdrawn by the West Bengal government are North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Purulia and East Midnapore, the last being the native district of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. An insider from the state secretariat Nabanna said that following the withdrawal of this approval, the old system of cooking and serving the Mid-Day Meals within the school campuses will be followed again. However, Annamrita Foundation, another arm of ISKCON, will continue to prepare and serve Mid-Day Meals at state-run schools within the jurisdiction of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). After the BJP came to power in West Bengal, ISKCON was given the responsibility of providing Mid-Day Meals to school students. Initially, this organisation started providing Mid-Day Meals to schools within the KMC's jurisdiction. The state government then announced that if the project proves to be successful in Kolkata, it would be extended to other districts of West Bengal. After that, the responsibility of providing Mid-Day Meals to schools in the four districts of Howrah, Purulia, North 24 Parganas and East Medinipur was given to ISKCONs Akshay Patra Foundation. However, before it was even started, the state government decided to withdraw the approval and no clarification has been given by the Adhikari government on the sudden decision to withdraw the approval. Initially, the decision of the state government to approve ISKCON-served food for Mid-Day Meals at government schools in West Bengal received massive criticism from the Opposition parties as well as from civil society, who argued that ISKCON-provided vegetarian meals would deprive the students of non-vegetarian protein-rich diets like eggs. However, the criticisms stopped after the Chief Minister announced that eggs would also be served with the Mid-Day Meals separately, in addition to the ISKCON-provided vegetarian meals. Accordingly, the budgetary allocation for the Mid-Day Meal Scheme was also increased.
Suvendu Adhikari Names Mother Of His Ex-Aide For Nandigram Bypoll
The BJP on Tuesday named Hasirani Rath, the mother of former aide to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari who died in May, as its candidate for Nandigrambypoll.
West Bengal Clears DRDO Junput Missile Project After Two-Year Delay
West Bengal has cleared a long-pending defence proposal that could significantly expand Indias missile-testing infrastructure, bringing the DRDO Junput Missile project in Purba Medinipur back into focus after more than two years of administrative delay. The proposed facility, to be established along the states Bay of Bengal coast, is expected to provide an additional testing [] The post West Bengal Clears DRDO Junput Missile Project After Two-Year Delay appeared first on Tfipost.com .
Over 50,000 treated under Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY in West Bengal: CM
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West Bengasl bus fare hike gets ministerial backing, revision likely after Durga Puja
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 15 (IANS) Demand for a fare hike by passenger bus owners' associations in West Bengal received support from state Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Dilip Ghosh on Tuesday, a day after the Transport Department indicated that it would initiate the process for revising fares after Durga Puja. Speaking to media persons during his morning walk at Eco Park in New Town, Ghosh said fare revision was necessary to generate revenue and improve passenger services. There has been a trend of weakening government institutions in West Bengal. This cannot continue in any civilised country. We will not increase people's income, we will not increase rents. We cannot keep people poor and think we are doing them a favour. People's income must also be increased so that they can also be given good benefits, he said. Ghosh said passengers were willing to pay higher fares for better services, pointing to the demand for AC buses and trains. Good buses have been released. People can travel by paying the fare. AC bus bookings and seat bookings are done earlier. AC train bookings are done earlier as well because people are willing to spend extra money for better service. They have to be given facilities. The fares have to be increased with the facilities. If the fares are not revised, then where will the revenue come from? he said. The minister's remarks came a day after the Transport Department took the initiative to increase fares of private buses and minibuses after Durga Puja. State Transport Minister Arjun Singh gave the assurance after hearing the demands of private bus owners at a meeting on Monday. Their long-standing financial problems, toll charges, alleged police harassment, vehicle requisition and several demands concerning old commercial vehicles were also discussed. Bus owners have argued that a fare revision is necessary to keep passenger services financially viable amid rising operating costs. The last fare hike for buses and minibuses in West Bengal took place in 2018, when the current Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, was the Transport Minister. Since then, fares have remained unchanged despite increases in fuel prices and other operating expenses. Bus owners have, therefore, sought a revision to ensure that services can continue without further financial strain. They said that the Transport Minister assured them that steps would be taken after the Puja. Tapan Banerjee, General Secretary of the Joint Council of Bus Syndicates, said the association had placed several demands before the minister. We have conveyed several demands to the minister regarding the increase in bus fares. We are confident in the way he has listened to our demands. He has assured us that he will take action regarding the fare hike after the Puja. We have full faith in the minister, Banerjee said.
West Bengal Government to Crack Down on Tollabazi and Syndicate Culture, Says Minister Dilip Ghosh
West Bengal prepares to combat tollabazi and syndicate culture, with Minister Dilip Ghosh emphasizing the need for law enforcement reforms. West Bengal Government to Crack Down on Tollabazi and Syndicate Culture, Says Minister Dilip Ghosh
Your Local Scene: We sipped our way through a six-cup tea trail
West Bengal: BJP fields slain Suvendu Adhikari aide's mother for Nandigram bypoll
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday (September 15) announced its candidates for the bypolls to two Assembly seats in West Bengal. The party has fielded Hasirani Rath from Nandigram, the mother of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's aide, Chandranath Rath, who was shot dead just two days after the West Bengal Assembly Election results.
Japan minister visits Kolkata; discusses investment, defence ties with Bengal govt
Digital Desk | Tokyo/New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) Japans State Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Kunimitsu Ayano visited Kolkata and other parts of West Bengal from September 10 to 13, holding discussions with senior state government officials on strengthening Japan-India ties, promoting Japanese investment in the state and expanding people-to-people exchanges, according to a press release issued on Tuesday by Japans Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During her visit, Kunimitsu congratulated the West Bengal government on the formation of the new government in May this year. The two sides exchanged views on the various potential of Japan-India relations and agreed to work together to further strengthen bilateral ties ahead of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and India. The Japanese minister also highlighted the situation of Japanese companies operating in West Bengal and sought the state governments cooperation in further promoting investment by Japanese companies in the state. State Minister KUNIMITSU explained the current situation of Japanese companies in West Bengal and requested the Minister to cooperate for further promoting the investment by Japanese companies, the Japanese foreign ministry said in its statement. Both sides also agreed to deepen cooperation to promote people-to-people exchanges, including in the areas of business and tourism, according to the release. As part of her four-day visit, Kunimitsu visited Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE), a shipyard under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. She held discussions with the companys executive management on ways to further advance defence cooperation between Japan and India. The visit to GRSE assumes significance amid efforts by India and Japan to expand cooperation in the defence and maritime sectors. The Japanese side said the discussions focused on further promoting defence cooperation between the two countries. Kunimitsu also visited Netaji Bhawan, the museum dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the Indian independence leader who had longstanding ties with Japan. During the visit, a relative of Netaji explained the Indian independence movement and Boses association with Japan. The Japanese foreign ministry said the State Minister also visited various other sites in West Bengal during her stay. The visit comes as India and Japan prepare to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, providing an opportunity for both sides to explore greater cooperation across economic, defence, tourism and cultural sectors. The discussions in Kolkata also underline Japans interest in strengthening its economic engagement with West Bengal, particularly by encouraging greater participation and investment by Japanese companies and expanding exchanges between people and businesses of the two sides.
Crime culture must be stopped at all costs in Bengal: Dilip Ghosh
Digital Desk | Newtown, Sep 15 (IANS) West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Tuesday said that antisocial elements had enjoyed complete dominance in Bengal for a long time and asserted that the government would enact whatever laws were required to eradicate such activities. Speaking to reporters, Ghosh said, In Bengal, antisocial elements had complete dominance for a long time. All these people, in collusion with political forces, have severely troubled the general public here. Terms like 'Tolabaji', 'Syndicate' and 'Cut-money' are heard exclusively in Bengal. Because of this, industries and businesses here have suffered, and the public is distressed. To completely eradicate this, the government will enact whatever laws are required. The administration needs to tighten law and order, and that process has begun. Even police personnel will not be spared; they are also being held accountable. This crime culture must be stopped at all costs, and the government is making all necessary preparations for it. On the New Education Policy, Ghosh said that there had been a debate since Independence over the direction Indian education should take and how people could be educated in a truly Indian context. Many discussions took place, but no one implemented it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi brought the New Education Policy into effect after extensive discussions, seminars and gathering opinions from people before presenting it. It is now being implemented step-by-step across states. Once fully implemented, society will reap its benefits, though it will take some time, he said. On the internal differences within the Trinamool Congress, Ghosh said his party did not want to interfere in the affairs of the ruling party. Whether old, new, good or bad, we don't want to get into the internal matters of the Trinamool Congress. They should take their issues to the Election Commission and resolve them. The Commission is looking into it, he said. Meanwhile, the rebel Trinamool Congress faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee on Monday named candidates for the bypolls to two Assembly seats in West Bengal, taking its electoral battle with the Mamata Banerjee-led camp to the next level, while asserting that it will contest under the official party name and symbol. The EC is yet to decide on the claims of rival groups.
Delhi-NCR likely to receive light rain; IMD issues thunderstorm alert in 20 states
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) Residents of Delhi-NCR may experience light rainfall on Tuesday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast generally cloudy conditions, with isolated spells of very light to light rain likely from the forenoon to the afternoon. IMD also issued thunderstorm and rain alerts in 20 states. The maximum temperature in the national capital is expected to remain between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is likely to settle between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius. According to the weather department, Delhi-NCR and several other parts of the country are likely to witness fluctuating weather conditions this week, with rain expected on some days, while relatively dry conditions may prevail on others. Although monsoon activity has weakened compared with previous weeks, the IMD has warned of thunderstorms, lightning and rainfall in 20 states. Gusty winds could reach speeds of up to 60 kmph in some areas, prompting authorities to advise residents to exercise caution during periods of adverse weather. The weather warning covers a wide geographical area, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Karnataka, Telangana, Gujarat and Maharashtra, among other regions. The IMD on Monday said the southwest monsoon is likely to begin withdrawing from the country around September 19, with the retreat expected to commence from west Rajasthan. The normal withdrawal date for the region is September 17, while last year the process began on September 14. The department said the country's cumulative rainfall deficit currently stands at 15 per cent. Several districts, particularly in western, southern and northeastern regions, continue to record deficient rainfall. Despite the expected retreat of the monsoon, several parts of the country are likely to receive additional rainfall during the week. The west and northwest regions, along with parts of the southern peninsula, are expected to witness increased rainfall activity.
West Bengal BJP president defends action against illegal madrasas, criticises Trinamool Congress
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Mithun Chakraborty Supports Closure of Unrecognized Madrasas in West Bengal
Mithun Chakraborty backs action against unrecognized madrasas in West Bengal, emphasizing the need for funding scrutiny for national security. Mithun Chakraborty Supports Closure of Unrecognized Madrasas in West Bengal
Police Sub-Inspector Found Dead in Barrack in North 24 Parganas, West Bengal
A police sub-inspector was found dead under mysterious circumstances in North 24 Parganas, raising questions about his sudden demise. Police Sub-Inspector Found Dead in Barrack in North 24 Parganas, West Bengal
Cong turns down TMC feelers for quid pro quo bypoll pact
After roads, states renaming panel sets sights on metro stations; Netaji Bhavan on list
BJP arranged for rebel TMC MPs to join NCPI, claims Cooch Behar MP
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari offers prayers at Maharashtra Mandal in Kolkata on Ganesh Chaturthi
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Jadavpur University outsider PIL hearing likely tomorrow
Eight injured in ISF-ABVP clash at Bhangar College
Recruitment, infrastructure boost can bring students back to state universities, say professors
From 350 to 800: Ganesh Puja goes big in Kolkata, themes turn diverse
5K more Pujas this yr, power demand to spike
Puja closure for Camac St-Allen Park stretch
From ministers to MLAs, BJP seniors in demand at Ganpati pandals
Cops take guard against manja accidents on Maa
KMC engineers continue strike, impact fear on civic services
Kol 2nd last in clean air survey, Haldia makes it to Indias top 5
Trespasser tag for students on Jadavpur University campus after 8 pm
Mamata Banerjees Political Future Hangs in the Balance Ahead of Bengal By-elections
Mamata Banerjee opts out of upcoming by-elections, raising questions about her political future amid a shifting landscape in West Bengal. Mamata Banerjees Political Future Hangs in the Balance Ahead of Bengal By-elections
