Assam Seeks West Bengals Help to Preserve Bhupen Hazarikas Historic Home
Assams Chief Minister requests West Bengals support to acquire and preserve Bhupen Hazarikas iconic residence in Kolkata. Assam Seeks West Bengals Help to Preserve Bhupen Hazarikas Historic Home
Dhirendra Shastri on Bengal politicians' radar for 'Pakhandi', 'Ganda Khana' comment
Controversy erupted in West Bengal over remarks by Bageshwar Dham priest Dhirendra Shastri, who allegedly called Bengalis pakhandis over non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja. Congress leaders filed police complaints seeking action, while BJP leaders defended Bengals tradition of eating fish and meat, particularly goat meat, during the festival.
Assam Government Seeks Support to Preserve Bhupen Hazarikas Historic Home in Kolkata
Assams Chief Minister requests West Bengals help to preserve Bhupen Hazarikas home, a site of significant cultural heritage. Assam Government Seeks Support to Preserve Bhupen Hazarikas Historic Home in Kolkata
Calcutta HC warns of lifting interim stay on demolition of Abhishek Banerjee's Amtala party office
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 8 (IANS) A single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court on Tuesday cautioned that the interim stay on the demolition of the party office of Trinamool Congress General Secretary and the party's Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member, Abhishek Banerjee, at Amtala in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. The single-judge bench of Justice Suvra Ghosh gave this caution after being displeased by repeated seeking for further dates by Abhishek Banerjee's counsel for presenting arguments in the matter. Justice Ghosh also cautioned the Trinamool Congress General Secretary's counsel on the matter. The hearing of the case related to the demolition of the office in Amtala was held on Tuesday. In this court hearing, the counsel of Abhishek Banerjee, who is also the nephew of the former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banewrjee, asked for time. Justice Ghosh expressed her dissatisfaction with Abhishek Banerjee seeking time in the matter. Thereafter, Justice Ghosh said the next hearing in the matter will be held on September 22 and if on that date Abhishek Banerjee's counsel would not come prepared for argument, the period of the interim stay will not be extended. A person named Sushant Mondal had filed a complaint on May 17 alleging that Abhishek Banerjee's office in Amtala was illegally constructed. The state administration took action in response to that complaint. A part of the Amtala office was demolished on July 18. The demolition work began again on July 19. The Calcutta High Court, which observed a holiday on Sunday, issued a stay order. The office was registered in the name of a corporate entity Leaps & Bounds Private Limited, which is linked to the Banerjee family. The notice sent by the administration was also in the name of that organisation. The Trinamool Congress faction led by Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee had accused the administration of beginning the demolition work without serving prior notice in the matter. It also accused the administration of not providing any information about the basis of which the action was being taken. The faction also alleged that the demolition of the office began without giving any opportunity to speak. The court, considering the arguments of both parties, ordered an interim stay on the demolition of the office.
Train diversions, cancellations to end before puja
Youth arrested after underage wife gives birth
Bolpur man regains mobility after rare ankle replacement operation
No contradiction between respect to Ma Durga and our creative freedom: Theme artists
31 stretches repaired, 45 more to go before pujas
Clean up vacant plots or get ready to pay fine: Minister Agnimitra Paul
Assam govt plans museum where Bhupen Hazarikas timeless songs came alive
Intense spell pounds north, east Kolkata; south escapes with light rain
Kol to get a sanatani mayor soon, says Sukanta
Following strong reactions to the advice of Bageshwar Baba to not sell non-vegetarian food near the idols during Durga Puja, Ministers of the West Bengal government and veteran party leaders support Samik Bhattacharya in rejecting the self-styled godmans advice
Jalpaiguri school headmaster assaulted after students allege beating
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Controversial Remarks on Bengali Cuisine Spark Police Complaint in West Bengal
The West Bengal Congress filed a police complaint against a religious leader for comments on Bengali food during Durga Puja. Controversial Remarks on Bengali Cuisine Spark Police Complaint in West Bengal
Jadavpur road to turn single-lane, varsity to close 4 out of 5 gates
Camac St ruckus: Derek OBrien questioned by cops again, this time for 6 hours
Kolkata food safety drive: The Kolkata Municipal Corporation suspended the food licences of 40 establishments after inspections revealed several hygiene violations. Rotten food, cockroaches and rats were found at several establishments during the drive. Officials also destroyed more than 1,200 kg of non-conforming food items. The licence suspensions are temporary and will initially remain in place for two weeks. Similar food safety drives were also conducted across West Bengal.
Bageshwar Babas Durga Puja Meat Remark Sparks Congress Complaint, BJP Also Rejects His Appeal
A political and cultural controversy has erupted in West Bengal after Bageshwar Dham head priest Dhirendra Shastri appealed to Bengalis to avoid non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja and called those eating meat on religious occasions hypocrites. The Congress has filed a police complaint, alleging his remarks could create disharmony and seeking an FIR and action. Interestingly, BJP West Bengal chief Samik Bhattacharya has also rejected Shastris appeal, defending Bengali food traditions. With Durga Puja approaching from October 16-20, the controversy has sparked a wider debate over food, faith and cultural identity.
Politics over Baba address refuses to die down, Cong lodges plaint
GTA placed under administrator, CM warns of action against corruption in Hills body
TMC regime corruption: GoM constituted to place white paper holds 3rd meet
Man arrested from West Bengal for Attappady double murder
Provath Das has reportedly confessed to killing the woman and child. He says they were not his wife and child and he had known them for only two months
Dhirendra Shastri vs Bengal Traditions: Congress Demands Action Over Durga Puja Remarks
A war of words erupted in West Bengal ahead of Durga Puja after Bageshwar Dham priest Dhirendra Shastri faced severe backlash from Congress and sharp criticism from political rivals for discouraging people from eating fish and meat on the occasion. Speaking
BJP, VHP welcome Bengal's Ashtami 'dry day' decision, Cong says attempt to divert attention
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Tuesday welcomed the West Bengal government's announcement of a complete ban on liquor sales across the state on 'Maha Ashtami' during the Durga Puja festival, while the Congress called it an attempt by the ruling government to divert attention from issues like lawlessness. Earlier, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that since the festival is the state's religious tradition, liquor will not be available even in the pubs and bars on October 19, Maha Ashtami. Speaking to IANS, Union Minister of State Sukanta Majumdar said: During the puja period, we need to exercise a bit of restraint because it is, after all, a sacred ritual. Therefore, the government has made a rule declaring a one-day 'dry day', especially on Ashtami as everyone offers floral tributes to the Goddess on that day. The Vishva Hindu Parishad National Spokesperson Shriraj Nair also welcomed the move, saying: This was the demand of the Hindu community. The previous Trinamool Congress and Left governments had crushed the Hindu sentiments. Moreover, he accused the previous Bengal governments of turning the Hindu festival of Durga Puja into a means of entertainment. Accusing former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of attempting to forcefully make Durga Puja a secular festival, he said: Crushing the Hindu sentiments and insulting traditions and seers were normal during the earlier regime. Last year, Banerjee drew criticism after a Trinamool Congress leader sang a song referencing the Kaaba and Medina inside a Kolkata Durga Puja pandal while she clapped along. Nair added: Now a government which respects religious sentiments and traditions has come to power...nobody should have a problem with closing of liquor shops for one day. Backing the decision, Bihar BJP President Sanjay Saraogi said: Durga Puja is the soul of Bengal. People from across the country visit Bengal for Durga Puja. The dignity of the festival is not enhanced by alcohol and noise. West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh said: Just as the food should be pure, the environment should also be free from intoxicants. If people consume or use intoxicants, or drink alcohol during the time of worship, it could disrupt the arrangements. How will the police be able to manage such a large crowd? Therefore, some kind of restriction or regulation is necessary. However, Congress MP Imran Masood said that if such decisions are taken to target Muslims, he community comprises of only 14 per cent of the country's population while 82 per cent of the population are non-vegetarians. Congress leader Rakesh Sinha questioned, whether the move is only symbolic? Further, he accused BJP of diverting attention from real issues under the garb of religion. In Bengal, the Opposition MPs as well as their party offices are not safe. Despite this the administration is silent. This means there is prevalence of 'Jungle Raj' in Bengal...so in order to divert attention from such issues, these topics are being brought in, he told IANS.
19 child labourers rescued from Bengalurus Yeshwanthpur APMC market after CM Shivakumar's visit
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 8 (IANS) As many as 19 child labourers, including children from Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Karnataka, were rescued from shops at the APMC Market in Yeshwanthpur following directions from Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday. The operation was launched after the Chief Minister visited the APMC Market within the limits of RMC Yard Police Station this morning and interacted with farmers, labourers and traders. During his visit, members of the public brought to his notice that children were allegedly being employed at some shops. Following the Chief Ministers directions, five special teams comprising Assistant Commissioners of Police, Police Inspectors of the North Division and Labour Inspectors were formed under the guidance of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, North Division, to conduct an operation at the market. The teams subsequently rescued 19 child labourers from the APMC Market. Of them, 13 were from Bihar, including 12 boys and one girl; two were from West Bengal; two from Uttar Pradesh; and one each from Rajasthan and Karnataka. Police said four cases have been registered at RMC Yard Police Station against shop owners who allegedly employed child labourers. The cases have been filed under provisions of the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act and the Juvenile Justice Act. Further investigation is underway. In addition, five cases have been registered against shop owners under the Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, and investigations have been taken up. Separately, 10 children found working on the roadside were also rescued and produced before the Child Welfare Committee, Bengaluru, for further necessary action. The operation was conducted under the guidance of Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh, IPS, and Joint Commissioner of Police (West) C. Vamshi Krishna, IPS. It was led by DCP, North Division, B.S. Nemagouda, IPS, with the assistance of Yeshwanthpur Sub-Division ACP Renuka Prasad B.Y., eight police inspectors, seven labour inspectors and other police personnel. The police said the operation was aimed at preventing the employment of children and ensuring their safety and rehabilitation. CM D.K. Shivakumar had earlier directed the police to arrest, by the evening, those who employed children and those who sent them to work. He warned that if immediate action was not taken, the concerned Circle Inspector, Dy SP, ACP and DCP, along with other police officials, would be suspended.
West Bengal BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya defended Bengali food habits, saying people cannot be told to give up fish and meat, and cited Swami Vivekananda's reference to mutton being offered to Goddess Kali.
Rajasthan: Army soldier abducted on returning home from coaching; wife gets Rs 10 lakh ransom call
Digital Desk | Jaipur, Sep 8 (IANS) An Army soldier was allegedly kidnapped by a group of armed men while he was returning home from coaching in Rajasthan's Sikar district a day before, police said on Tuesday. The kidnappers later allegedly used his phone to call his wife and demand a Rs 10 lakh ransom. The soldier, identified as Shriram Sihag (32), was on leave and had been preparing for the Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment examination. The incident took place at around 8 p.m. on Monday near Kerpura bus stand, when five to six unidentified men allegedly intercepted him and forcibly took him away in a vehicle. Shriram's motorcycle and helmet were found abandoned at the spot, raising an immediate alarm among his family and local residents. According to the family, Shriram's wife received a call from his phone at around 11:46 p.m. on Monday. The caller allegedly told her that Shriram was safe and demanded Rs 10 lakh. The caller reportedly said, Shriram is safe with us. We will send the bank details. Transfer Rs 10 lakh to that account. The call was disconnected shortly afterwards. The family then approached the police, following which a search operation was launched. Police said the family has raised suspicion against another Army soldier over a previous financial dispute. Khandela Station House Officer Surendra Singh said Shriram's brother, Sher Singh, lodged a report and told police that Shriram had earlier been involved in a financial transaction-related dispute with another soldier from Karauli district during his posting in West Bengal. The family suspects that the dispute could be linked to the alleged kidnapping. Based on the information provided by the family, police have sent a team to Karauli to investigate the suspected connection. Roadblocks have also been placed in surrounding areas, while teams are searching for the missing soldier. According to his family, Shriram had been on leave for the past three to four months to prepare for the SI recruitment examination. He joined the Army in 2013 and was currently posted in Punjab. Police said they are investigating the case from multiple angles and are working to establish the identity of the suspects, trace the soldier and verify the alleged financial dispute. The discovery of Shriram's motorcycle and helmet at the spot, coupled with the alleged ransom call from his phone, has intensified the investigation.
Assam Govt to preserve Bhupen Hazarikas Kolkata residence: Himanta Sarma
Digital Desk | Guwahati, Sep 8 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that the state government is taking steps to preserve the Kolkata residence of legendary musician and cultural icon Bhupen Hazarika in Tollygunge as part of efforts to safeguard his creative legacy. Sarma said a significant chapter of Hazarikas life was shaped in Kolkata and stressed the importance of preserving the residence as the country observes the centenary of the iconic artists birth. A part of Bhupen Das life was shaped in Kolkata, and we cannot let that chapter fade away, Sarma said in a post on X. He added that as Assam celebrates Hazarikas birth centenary, the state government is taking steps to preserve his residence in Tollygunge and protect what he described as a precious part of the musicians creative legacy. Hazarika, popularly known as Bhupen Da, remains one of Assams most celebrated cultural figures and is widely recognised for his contribution to Indian music, cinema and literature. His songs and compositions reflected themes of humanity, social justice, harmony and the lives of ordinary people. The musician spent significant periods of his life in Kolkata, where he worked in the Bengali film and music industry and developed close associations with several leading cultural personalities. His connection with Kolkata has been an important part of his artistic journey, making the preservation of his former residence significant for admirers of his work in Assam, West Bengal and beyond. The Assam governments move comes as preparations and commemorative activities gain significance around Hazarikas birth centenary. The initiative is aimed at ensuring that locations associated with the legendary musicians life and work are preserved for future generations. Hazarika was born on September 8, 1926, in Sadiya, Assam. Over a career spanning several decades, he emerged as one of the most influential voices from the Northeast and played a major role in taking Assamese music and culture to a wider national and international audience. He was conferred the Bharat Ratna, Indias highest civilian award, posthumously in 2019. Sarmas announcement highlights the Assam governments broader efforts to honour Hazarikas enduring contribution to the cultural identity of Assam and India. The preservation of the Tollygunge residence is expected to provide admirers and future generations an opportunity to connect with an important chapter of the musicians life and artistic journey.
West Bengal Law University Changes Reservation Categories For 2027 Admissions
West Bengal Law University has changed the seat matrix and reservation categories for CLAT 2027 Undergraduate and Postgraduate admissions.
World War II Mortar Shell Discovered Along Damodar River in Bankura, West Bengal
A World War II mortar shell was found along the Damodar River in Bankura, prompting police and army intervention. World War II Mortar Shell Discovered Along Damodar River in Bankura, West Bengal
Dilip Ghosh Defends Non-Veg Food During Durga Puja, Says
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh said eating non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja has always been a part of Bengal's traditional culture and should not be treated as controversy. Ghosh responded to ongoing debate over non-vegetarian food on Tuesday by saying that
New Durga Puja Rules 2026: West Bengal bans liquor on Maha Ashtami and more
Eating meat here is...: WB Min on Bageshwar Baba's diktat
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh asserted that eating non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja is not controversial, countering Bageshwar Dham head priest Dhirendra Shastri's call for vegetarianism. Ghosh highlighted Bengal's traditions, including goat sacrifice as prasad, and criticised attempts to dictate food choices or government involvement in community pujas. He also touched upon a controversy regarding an 11-handed Durga idol.
Bengal: Resort security guard assaults tourist family with lathi
Kolkata: A Muslim family in West Bengals East Midnapore district was allegedly assaulted at a resort on Saturday, September 5, after a dispute over parking escalated. The family said the assault occurred after they parked their car to inspect a room at Swarnamoyee Beach Resort in the coastal resort village of Mandarmani, when an argument 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 .
Poor visibility, bad weather force Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikaris helicopter to return to Siliguri
Bengal BJP minister backs non-veg during Durga Puja, pushes back against Bageshwar Baba
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh stated non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja is not controversial. He referenced Bageshwar Baba's appeal for vegetarianism, noting saints advocate for health. Ghosh defended Bengal's tradition of consuming goat meat as prasad. He criticized past governments for dictating people's food choices. The minister also questioned government funding for community pujas.
BJP promotes fish in West Bengal, tries to distance from vegetarianism
The BJP candidate from Bidhannagar, Sharadwat Mukherjee on Sunday canvassed with a fish, trying to tell people that the saffron camp would never put any restrictions on non-vegetarian food if they are voted to power in West Bengal.
Bengal: Durga Puja committees welcome CM Adhikaris call to voluntarily decline state govts grant
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 8 (IANS): A number of mega-budget community Durga Puja committees in Kolkata have responded positively to an appeal from the Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for voluntarily declining the state government-provided grant to such committees in the state. On Monday, while announcing a state government grant of Rs 1,00,000 for each of the community Durga Puja Committees for this year, the Chief Minister also issued an appeal requesting the big-budget puja committees, who are capable of running their shows successfully without the state government aid, to voluntarily decline accepting the state government grant. A number of mega-budget Puja Committees have reacted positively to that plea from the Chief Minister. The first Puja Committee to react positively in the matter is that of Santosh Mitra Square Committee in Central Kolkata, whose principal patron is the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-legislator, Sajal Ghosh. We have consistently refused government dole and have opposed such measures on principle. But this time, if the benefit is genuinely reaching the people who are truly needy and deserving, it is certainly a welcome step. Most importantly, it feels good that we dont have to oppose a genuinely helpful initiative simply because of ideological differences. When the right people benefit, we should appreciate the good workirrespective of politics BJPs state spokesperson in West Bengal, Keya Ghosh, who is associated with Rajdanga Naba Uday Sangha Puja at Kasba in South Kolkata as the committees chairpersons, said that the Chief Ministers argument is absolutely genuine that the state governments Puja grant should be for small-budget Pujas, for whom the donation means a lot. I sincerely thank the Chief Minister for standing by the small and big pujas. A 100 per cent discount on the electricity bill of Puja Committees is undoubtedly a welcome move. We at Rajdanga Naba Uday Sangha have thought differently this time. We will donate the money to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund, said Ghosh, a journalist-turned-politician. Some other mega-budget Puja committees who have voluntarily declined the state government grant replying to the Chief Ministers plea included Tala Pratyay Club and Phulbagan Sarbojanin in North Kolkata and Santoshpur Lake Pally Club in South Kolkata.
Durga Puja under BJP rule in West Bengal: A push for vegetarianism and tradition
I want to appeal to Hindus of Bengal that during Navratri, even if you dont keep the idols of the Goddess, do not sell non-veg near the idols, the self-styled godman Dhirendra Krishna Shastri said while addressing his devotees.
Bageshwar Dham chief Dhirendra Krishna Shastris appeal to people in West Bengal to avoid non-vegetarian food during Durga Puja has triggered a political debate, with state BJP chief Samik Bhattacharya pushing back against the suggestion. Bhattacharya said no religious leader or politician should dictate what people in Bengal should eat or wear, stressing that food [] The post No one can dictate what Bengalis eat: Bengal BJP chief rejects Dhirendra Shastris Durga Puja non-veg ban appeal appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
West Bengal Bans Liquor on Maha Ashtami, DJs and Scraps Red Road Durga Puja Carnival
Suvendu Adhikari introduces stricter Puja rules, reshaping Bengals festival with tradition, discipline and new celebrations.
Durga Puja guidelines 2026: Suvendu Adhikari announces liquor ban, no DJs and more; check full list
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced significant changes to upcoming Durga Puja celebrations. Liquor sales will be banned on Maha Ashtami, and DJ music is now prohibited throughout the festival. Puja committees must ensure themes respect religious sentiments and Sanatan traditions. Roadshows will replace the immersion carnival, and national highways cannot be blocked for pujas. Cultural programs and special arrangements for visitors will be organized across six major cities.
West Bengals finances are in poor shape; recovery will take at least a year: CM Suvendu Adhikari
The CM blamed formerStategovernments for the poor financial condition of the State
Delhi-NCR to see partly cloudy skies, light rain; humidity to remain high
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast generally cloudy weather with light rain or drizzle in Delhi on Tuesday. The national capital is likely to witness partly cloudy skies on September 9 and 10, while another spell of light rain may occur from September 11. Humidity is expected to remain relatively high during the period. The weather department has not issued any warning for Delhi for the coming days. In Noida, partly cloudy conditions are likely to prevail from September 8 to 13. Maximum temperatures are expected to remain between 34 and 35 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is likely to stay around 26 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels could rise as high as 90 per cent. No weather warning has been issued for the city. Gurugram is also likely to experience partly cloudy weather from September 8 to 12, with maximum temperatures ranging from 31 to 33 degrees Celsius. On September 13, the maximum temperature is expected to be around 32 degrees Celsius, with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers possible. Humidity may reach 90 per cent, though no weather warning has been issued. Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon remains active over several parts of the country. The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and other regions on Tuesday. The IMD has warned of heavy rain and thunderstorms across 17 states and Union Territories, including Bihar, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. Wind speeds could reach 65-70 kmph in some areas. The weather department has forecast heavy rainfall in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh until September 13. Uttar Pradesh may receive rain between September 9 and 13, while Rajasthan could witness rainfall on September 12 and 13. Uttarakhand is likely to continue experiencing monsoon activity, while Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh may receive rain during September 8-13.
Stick to tradition, Bengal CM tells Durga Puja organisers
CM: Underage couples, parents to face charges under BNS, Pocso
West Bengal Government Takes Strong Stance Against Child Marriage and Early Motherhood
West Bengals CM announces strict actions against child marriage and early motherhood, including legal action under POCSO. West Bengal Government Takes Strong Stance Against Child Marriage and Early Motherhood
Bengal hikes doles for widows, seniors, disabled to Rs 1,500
Jadavpur Police Seek Records of 18 Students From University in Probe
BJP, cops gear up for Saffron March rally
Bengal UCC panel set to start public hearings: Consultations to be held in five segments
West Bengal's Uniform Civil Code commission will start public hearings soon. Retired Supreme Court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai leads this independent commission. The state government will take the report to the assembly after completion. West Bengal aims to be the fourth state to adopt UCC after other states. This move will replace religion-based personal laws with unified civil laws.
Daughters Suicide: Estranged Wife Files Plaint Against Man
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ISI Accepts State Offer To Be Lead Knowledge Institute
ED searches multiple locations in Bengal in over Rs 280 crore bank fraud
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 7 (IANS) Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Kolkata Zonal Office recently conducted search operations at 12 premises across West Bengal under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, in connection with the investigation into the Kohinoor Power Pvt. Ltd. (KPPL) bank fraud involving default of more than Rs 280 crore, the central probe agency said in a statement on Monday. According to the ED, the investigation was initiated on the basis of the complaint filed by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) before the 2nd Special Court at Kolkata in respect of the affairs of Kohinoor Power Private Limited (KPPL) and others. Investigation into the affairs of the company was ordered by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) pursuant to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) forwarding a list of companies in respect of which the Resolution Professional (RP) had fled applications before the NCLT concerning avoidance transactions. The ED investigation has revealed that KPPL, along with its directors indulged in fraudulent activities, including submission of false information, concealment of material facts, falsification/manipulation of books of accounts and diversion of loan funds, thereby dishonestly inducing the consortium banks to sanction and disburse financial facilities. The ED investigation has further revealed that the company eventually went into liquidation under the IBC and only around Rs 7 crore could be recovered, leading to 97.5 per cent haircut to the banks. Further investigation has revealed possession of dozens of immovable properties in and around Kolkata acquired from the proceeds of crime, from which the promoters were allegedly enjoying rental income of around Rs 26 lakh per month. Search operations have revealed that the promoters of the company Vijay Bothra and Prashant Bothra, are controlling more than 100 shell entities which were allegedly being used for siphoning and laundering the proceeds of crime generated from the bank fraud. Further, large sums have also been invested abroad in the name of relatives and dummy directors. Search operations resulted in freezing of bank accounts of more than 150 shell entities/individuals along with securities and other financial investments, including shares, mutual funds and debt securities. The total value of the bank balances and financial assets frozen during the operations is around Rs 64 crore. Search operations also resulted in seizure of incriminating digital evidences, company records, financial documents, property deeds, etc, have been seized during the search operations, which are being analysed for tracing the proceeds of crime and identifying further assets acquired from them.
Vande Mataram set to be primary theme of International Kolkata Book Fair 2027
Restos to label food, reduce meat, veggie storage time
Uncertainty dogs Bangla artistes travel plans for World Film Fest
Pay hike for 1 lakh contractual staff in Bengal: CM Suvendu Adhikari
KMC-cop drive against illegal hawkers promises relief ahead of festive season
Howrah reels under dengue attack, cases touch 115
Bengal Beckons: West Bengal FM Swapan Dasgupta's 'look east' policy
West Bengal finance minister calls for respecting relative differences of eastern states but acknowledging their commonality
Health dept intensifies dengue surveillance
Bonjour Chandernagore: Paris street on The Strand this weekend
Plan for UG power network in tourist zones of 16 towns
CNMCH frisking under officials watch after students plaint
Power tariffs and building norms top reforms agenda: West Bengal FM
Power sector reform, he reckoned, was a low-hanging fruit, with an Open Access policy under consideration to help lower electricity prices in the state
West Bengal CM urges Durga Puja committees to give up State support, announces restrictions
No Durga Puja inauguration will be allowed before Mahalaya, marking the beginning of the auspicious Devi Paksha, and the governmentwill not organise a carnival this year, Suvendu Adhikari says
Bengal govt announces Rs 1 lakh donation for community Durga Puja committees
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 7 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday announced Rs 1,00,000 as donations for all community Durga Puja Committees for this year. The Chief Minister made this announcement after a meeting with the members of the community Durga Puja committees in the state on Monday. At the same time, he also requested the big-budget puja committees, who are capable of running their shows successfully with the state government aid, to voluntarily decline accepting that state government donation. Earlier, I said in a programme that I will give grants to those community Durga Puja committees with small budgets. However, I do not want to abuse the power of the Chief Minister. So, this grant will be open for all community Pujas. However, I will request those Puja Committees who are capable of organising their respective Pujas without the state government aid, not to take financial assistance from the state government. We want to give this grant of Rs 1,00,000 to those committees who cannot perform puja without this money, the Chief Minister told media persons after the meeting with the representatives of different Puja Committees. The Chief Minister, at the same time, assured that Puja committees across the state will not have to pay any price for electricity. However, the Chief Minister warned that DJs will not be allowed to play anywhere in the state during the Puja days. Liquor shops will be closed on the occasion of Maha Ashtami this year on October 19. Even liquor will not be available in the pubs and bars on that day. Maha Ashtami is an auspicious occasion. On that day, we offer flowers to Devi Durga. So, this year, we have decided to declare a dry day on that day. Puja is our religious tradition. Our cultural tradition is intertwined with the occasion. You should not do anything that hurts it, the Chief Minister said. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister also ridiculed his predecessor and former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on this Puja grant issue. In the previous regime, this grant almost took the shape of an auction to gain political mileage. But that strategy did not work in the last elections. Rather, many Puja Committees got dependent on grants, the Chief Minister said.
Husbands to face POCSO charges if wife becomes mother before 18: Bengal CM
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 7 (IANS) In a major crackdown on child marriage and teenage pregnancies, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced that husbands of girls who become mothers before attaining the age of 18 will be prosecuted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, with the state government initiating suo motu cases against offenders. Speaking to the media persons here on Monday, the Chief Minister said, Now West Bengal is notorious in terms of child marriage and childbirth before the age of 18. The previous Trinamool Congress government is responsible for this. So, henceforth, strong legal action will be taken under the POCSO Act against the husbands of girls who conceive before the age of 18. The government will file suo motu cases in such matters. The culprit can be imprisoned for a maximum of 20 years. They will also be deprived of all government opportunities and social welfare allowances. He also said that the priests or Kazis performing rituals of marriage between underage brides and grooms will also not be spared. The administration will also take action against the guardians concerned. From January 1, 2016, to June 30 this year, about 60,000 girls under the age of 18 became mothers. Murshidabad tops the list. During that period, 12,847 girls from the district became mothers before attaining the age of 18. Next on the list is South 24 Parganas, where 4,178 girls under the age of 18 became mothers, the Chief Minister added. He informed that the State Health Department provided him with this information. The law under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 specifies the prevention of child marriages. The number of child marriages is so high that there are not even enough jails in the state to house all those who are guilty on this count. But still, we will not allow this to continue. We will make arrests. We have to stop all these social evils. We will launch a bigger campaign on this issue in the coming days, CM Adhikari said.
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West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari apologized for an advertisement error. The government's advertisement showed Goddess Durga with eleven arms. He announced that liquor shops will remain closed on Maha Ashtami. This measure aims to ensure peaceful and orderly Durga Puja celebrations. The state government will be more careful with future advertisements.
CM apologises after West Bengal government advertisement depicts Durga with 11 hands instead of 10
As the CM of West Bengal, I apologise for the error. The people responsible have received a stern warning. In the future, the Government will be careful, says Mr. Adhikari
EC announces October 6 by-polls for West Bengal's Nandigram, Rejinagar
EC announces October bypolls for West Bengals Nandigram Rejinagar
Nandigram, Rejinagar to vote on October 6 in West Bengal bypolls
The Election Commission announced bye-polls for Nandigram and Rejinagar seats on October sixth. These elections are necessitated by the resignations of Suvendu Adhikari and Humayun Kabir. The poll process begins with a gazette notification on September ninth. Candidates can file and withdraw nominations until September nineteenth. The entire election process will be completed by October eleventh.
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EC announces Nandigram, Rejinagar bypolls on Oct 6, results on Oct 9
Bypolls for Nandigram and Rejinagar seats in Bengal before Durga Puja on Oct 6
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 7 (IANS) The bypolls for Nandigram Assembly constituency in East Midnapore district and Rejinagar Assembly constituency in Murshidabad district of West Bengal will be conducted on October 6 that is just before the forthcoming Durga Puja festival in the state. The date of issue of gazette notification in the matter will be on September 9 and the last date of nomination will be on September 16, according to an announcement made by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday evening. The date of scrutiny of nominations will be on September 17, while the last date for withdrawal of candidatures will be on September 19. While the polling will be conducted on October 6, the counting of votes and poll results will be declared on October 9. The date before which the elections will have to be concluded is October 11. In the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly Elections earlier this year, the current Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari got elected both from Nandigram as well as from Bhabanipur Assembly Constituency in South Kolkata. At Bhabanipur, Adhikari got elected by defeating his predecessor and the former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee by a margin of more than 15,000 votes. Thereafter, CM Adhikari retained the Bhabanipur constituency, thus necessitating bypolls for Nandigram. On the other hand, former Trinamool Congress legislator Humayun Kabir, contested and got elected as an Aam Janata Unnayan Party (AJUP) candidate from both Naoda and Rejinagar Assembly constituencies, both in Murshidabad district. However, later Humayun Kabir decided to retain Naoda, thus necessitating bypolls for Rejinagar seat. Since 2021, Nandigram, because of Suvendu Adhikari, had been a virtual fortress for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Therefore, political observers are not in two minds about the results of the bye-elections there. However, political observers say that because of the demography of Rejinagar, this particular Assembly constituency will be quite tough to win for the BJP. On the other hand, Trinamool Congress, which is now divided into three factions, also does not seem to be having much poll prospects from Rejinagar this time. Rather, CPI-M and Congress can view the opportunity for increasing their tally in the West Bengal Assembly constituency by one seat. The Rejinagar bypolls might also give some indication about where the minority votes in the state might shift to in the coming days, a Kolkata-based political observer said.
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