Bharat Bandh 12th February: India is observing a Bharat Bandh on Thursday, February 12 and several services will be impacted today except for essential services like hospitals and ambulance operations. Assam, Odisha, Kerala and West Bengal are likely to see the maximum impact of the nationwide strike. Emergency services such as hospitals, pharmacies may not be affected.
West Bengal BJP welcomes MHA directive of singing all stanzas of Vande Mataram
State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said that it is most unfortunate if someone smells communalism in Goddess Durga
SC: On what basis did NIA invoke UAPA in Beldanga violence?
The Supreme Court questioned the National Investigation Agency's use of the UAPA law in a West Bengal violence case. The court noted the NIA had not reviewed case documents before claiming the violence threatened India's economic security. The bench suggested the Calcutta High Court should resolve the matter. The NIA will submit a report to the High Court.
Budget envisages total expenditure of Rs 53.47 lakh crore for 2026-27: FM
India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled a Rs 53.47 lakh crore budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The government plans the highest-ever capital expenditure at Rs 12.2 lakh crore. Fiscal deficit is projected at 4.3 percent of GDP. The minister also addressed fertiliser availability and refuted claims regarding trade agreements. She criticized opposition parties and the West Bengal government.
Bengal Run By Bomb Culture, Not Law And Order: Nirmala Sitharaman Hits Out At TMC In Lok Sabha
The finance minister further criticised the West Bengal government over the RG Kar rape case and other incidents of sexual violence.
EC orders transfer of long serving Bengal government officials ahead of polls
The Election Commission directs the transfer of senior West Bengal government officials serving in the similar post for more than three years. However, officials posted at the state headquarters will be exempt from the transfer.
Congs solo move sharpens TMC-BJP binary ahead of Bengal polls
Kolkata: The Congress decision to go solo in the West Bengal assembly polls has narrowed the opposition space, reinforced the states entrenched TMC-BJP binary and shifted the focus from alliance arithmetic to vote consolidation in an increasingly two-cornered battle. Senior leaders across party lines agreed that the breakdown of the Left-Congress understanding has effectively collapsed 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 .
Congress' solo move sharpens TMC-BJP binary ahead of West Bengal polls
The Congress will contest West Bengal assembly polls alone. This decision strengthens the Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party contest. The opposition space has narrowed. The focus shifts to consolidating votes in a two-way battle. This move ends the Left-Congress electoral partnership. The upcoming polls will likely see a direct fight between the TMC and BJP.
Women, youth in focus as Bengal govt expands cash aid ahead of Assembly polls
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced the immediate disbursal of increased financial aid under the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme. The state government is also launching the Yuba Sathi scheme. This initiative will provide Rs 1,500 monthly to unemployed youth for five years. Landless farm laborers will receive Rs 2,000 twice annually.
Bengal Poll Dates Expected In First Week Of March As ECI Meets State CEO | Exclusive
The ECI led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar engaged in a detailed discussion with West Bengals Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Manoj Kumar Agarwal
Police recover Rs32 lakh during vehicle checking in Patna City
Patna City police intercepted two individuals attempting to evade a checkpost, discovering Rs32 lakh in cash on their motorcycle. Preliminary inquiries suggest the money was collected from a company and was en route to Bardhaman, West Bengal. Authorities have alerted the income tax department and are investigating the money's origin and the suspects' claims.
No mention of West Bengal in Finance Minister's budget speech: Trinamool MP Abhishek Banerjee
Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee has accused the central government of discriminating against states ruled by the opposition. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the budget debate, Banerjee alleged that the budget favors a select few while taking from many. He criticized the budget for focusing on headlines rather than solutions.
ECI extends deadline for Bengal SIR hearings to Feb. 14; final rolls to be published on Feb. 28
Extension follows a Supreme Court order and a request from the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal which cited pending hearings, scrutiny, anddigitisationwork
Election Commission extends SIR deadline for West Bengal by two weeks
ECI extends SIR in poll-bound Bengal by 2 weeks; final rolls on Feb 28
In a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal, the Election Commission said the decision was taken in compliance with the Supreme Courts February 9 order. Earlier, the final voters list was scheduled to be published on February 14, with elections to follow after completion of the exercise.
SIR hearings in West Bengal to conclude by February 21; final electoral rolls on February 28
West Bengal's electoral roll revision is on track. Hearings for claims and objections will finish by February 21. The final updated voter list will be published on February 28, 2026. This schedule adheres to Supreme Court orders. The Election Commission of India has issued a revised timeline for the Special Intensive Revision exercise in the state.
Altogether 14 properties, including land, houses and commercial establishments in areas such as Naldahari in Murshidabad district's Lalgola, 15 bank accounts and vehicles are being attached as part of the legal process, Superintendent of Police Dhritiman Sarkar told reporters.
Supreme Court adjourns the hearing after advocate Preetika Dwivedi made an oral mentioning that Kapil Sibal, counsel for West Bengal, was unwell
Bengal CEO to meet ECI to finalise new date for final voters list publication
Kolkata: The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), West Bengal, Manoj Kumar Agarwal will hold a crucial meeting with the full bench of the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday to finalise the new date for publication of the final voters list in the state that will bring an end to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision 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 .
EC allegations on SIR: SC asks Bengal DGP to file affidavit
The Supreme Court has ordered the West Bengal police chief to personally respond to serious allegations from the Election Commission. The EC claims ruling party TMC members are deliberately obstructing the revision of electoral rolls. The court emphasized the importance of constitutional laws and the EC's authority during elections.
West Bengal SIR rolls unlikely before Feb 28
The Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal has announced a potential hold-up in the final release of the electoral rolls, originally set for February 14. CEO Manoj Kumar Agarwal is diligently finalizing the preparations and seeking endorsement from the Election Commission of India.
Won't allow any impediment: Supreme Court on SIR exercise in West Bengal
The Supreme Court has issued a stern warning against any obstruction to the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. The court emphasised that the process must proceed without hindrance in all states. West Bengal officials have been directed to report for duty immediately.
Actor R Madhavan shared a touching video showing a bicycle mechanic father in West Bengal overwhelmed with pride as his son, Manoj Mondal, receives his CISF joining letter. The fathers emotional reaction, with tears of joy and a heartfelt hug, captures years of hard work and sacrifice. Madhavans post highlights the power of everyday human stories and has resonated widely on social media.
EC using very restrictive software tools unable to fathom natural differences, says Supreme Court
Top court asks poll body to extend claims-objections phase deadline by a week from February 14, directs West Bengal DGP to file a personal affidavit on allegations of violence, burning of documents
Supreme Court extends West Bengal SIR deadline by one week
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday, February 9, extended the deadline for completing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls in West Bengal by one week from its original deadline on February 14. Amid Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees apprehension of mass exclusion of voters in the SIR, the top court said it 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 .
Top Court Questions Bengal Government Over Delay In Sharing Officers' Names For SIR Exercise
The Supreme Court on Monday, while issuing additional directions to streamline the ongoing SIR in West Bengal, questioned the Mamata Banerjee government over the delay in providing a list of Group-B officers to the Election Commission.
AIIMS Doctor Removes 19.9 kg Tumour From Colon Cancer Patient
Ms Munmun, a 43-year-old female from Durgapur, West Bengal, presented with abdominal distension. She had a history of unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy 25 years prior. She was diagnosed with carcinoma colon featuring pelvic predominance and widespread abdominal dissemination
ED summons West Bengal police official for questioning in coal smuggling case
Manoranjan Mondal, the in-charge of Budbud police station in the district, was summoned days after the Central probe agency conducted searches at his residence, during which several documents were seized
No Impediment Allowed: SC on SIR Exercise in West Bengal
The bench took note of the affidavit filed by the Election Commission (EC) which alleged burning of its notices by some miscreants
Will not allow any impediment to voter roll revision: Supreme Court on SIR
The bench took note of an affidavit filed by the Election Commission (EC), which alleged that some miscreants had burnt notices issued as part of the SIR process. It directed the West Bengal Director General of Police to file an affidavit in this regard, noting that no FIR had been filed so far
The major news headlines of the day and more
West Bengal SIR: The Supreme Court has stepped in to ensure West Bengal's voter list revision proceeds without hindrance. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had challenged the Election Commission's decision. The court has made it clear that no one will be permitted to obstruct this crucial electoral process. The special intensive revision of electoral rolls in the poll-bound state must continue smoothly.
Supreme Court Grants More Time For Bengal SIR Scrutiny, Defers Final Electoral List
SC extended the deadline for West Bengal's final electoral roll under SIR by one week, issued a show-cause notice to the Director General, and directed more time for hearings.
BJP believes in nation first, Opposition in self-interest first, feels party chief Nitin Nabin
In his first visit to his home State of Bihar since becoming BJP chief, Mr. Nabin says he got the opportunity to visit States like Kerala and West Bengal, where party workers are making sacrifices, without worrying about what they are going to get in return
Supreme Court continues hearing pleas on SIR: LIVE
The Supreme Court had earlier issued notices and sought replies by February 9 from the Election Commission and the chief electoral officer of West Bengal on the petition filed by Mamata Banerjee
Opinion: Opinion | West Bengal Budget: Substance Over Hype
Here are some stories worth telling about the West Bengal budget.
Union Minister pledges budget-backed tech boost for Bengal handlooms
Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh held discussions with weavers and officials in West Bengal, focusing on strengthening the handloom sector through policy support, technology integration, and improved market access.
SC to hear Mamata Banerjees plea against Bengal SIR today
New Delhi: The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear on Monday, February 9, the plea filed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee challenging the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the poll-bound state scheduled to be held this year. As per the cause list published on the website of the apex 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 .
Union textiles minister focuses on handloom protection and tech-led growth
KOLKATA, Feb 8 : Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh on Sunday held discussions with weavers and officials in West Bengal, focusing on strengthening the handloom sector through policy support, technology integration and improved market access. Beginning his visit at Shantipur in Nadia district, the minister interacted with weavers and handloom workers and said the sector would be protected from unfair competition by power looms, a statement said. He also announced that school uniforms would be sourced exclusively from handwoven fabric. [] The post Union textiles minister focuses on handloom protection and tech-led growth appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Plea Questions Mamata Banerjee's Personal Appearance in Supreme Court
An application has been filed in the Supreme Court alleging that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's personal appearance in the top court in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) matter was constitutionally improper and legally untenable.
Plea in SC claims Mamata Banerjee's personal appearance in SIR matter 'legally untenable'
An application has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's personal appearance in a Special Intensive Revision matter. The applicant argues her appearance was constitutionally improper and legally untenable. Banerjee had previously urged the court to intervene in the electoral roll revision process.
TMC MLA: No Lakshmir Bhandar Aid To ISF Workers If They Don't Elect Us
Days after West Bengal chief minister and Trinamul Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee hiked monthly aids in public welfare schemes including Lakshmir Bhandar in the interim budget with an eye on upcoming Assembly Election, her party MLA from Canning Purba in South 24 Parganas, Saokat Molla, has threatened to stop the benefits to the Indian Secular Front (ISF) workers if they would not vote for them this time: Reports
Bengal SIR: Application against CM Mamatas personal appearance in SC
An application has been filed against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees personal appearance in the Supreme Court in relation to last weeks Special Intensive Revision (SIR) hearing against the Election Commission of India. Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha (ABHS) Vice President Satish Kumar Aggarwal filed the application seeking intervention in the matter. According to his 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 .
I Convinced Arijit To Sing 5 Songs for My Son
Aamir Khan revealed what transpired during his recent visit to West Bengal to meet the singer
BJP will form next govt in Bengal after polls in April: Suvendu Adhikari
Senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari predicts a decisive victory for his party in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. He stated the BJP will secure a two-thirds majority and form the government by April, ending the Trinamool Congress's 15-year tenure. Adhikari asserted that voters have made up their minds, and the TMC will face a significant defeat across the state.
Destination Santiniketan for Assam initiative to celebrate poets
Monkobita will showcase the creations of Bhupen Hazarika and Navakanta Barua at West Bengals Visva-Bharati University, established by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore
Ready to make available 8,505 Group B officers for SIR exercise: West Bengal to Election Commission
CM Mamata may come to the Supreme Court on Monday (February 9, 2026) again, sources said
For SIR exercise, Bengal offers 8,505 Group B officers to EC
West Bengal has informed the Election Commission of its readiness to provide 8,505 Group B officers for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls. This comes after the poll panel argued in the Supreme Court that the state had provided fewer officers. The Supreme Court is hearing pleas related to the revision process.
Bengal SIR: ECI clarifies validity of permanent resident certificates
Kolkata: The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday clarified that permanent resident certificates issued by elected public representatives or Block Development Officers (BDOs) will not be considered valid identity documents in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal. The Commission said that in districts, permanent resident certificates issued by District Magistrates, Additional 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 .
Here is a select list of stories to start the day
West Begnal Minister Faces Mob Fury Over Convoy Hit-And-Run
Sources said that the west Bengal state minister Siddikullah Chowdhury, s convoy was passing through the Kashipur village on Rejinagar - Sarbangapur state highway suddenly one speeding convoy car hit and runaway one waiting baby on the road, locals tried hard to stop the convoy but they failed as convoy not rescued the badly injured baby.
West Bengal CEO urges ECI to extend SIR hearing by 7 days
The last date of hearing of Bengal SIR was February 7(today) and the due date for final roll publication was February 14. However, the final roll publication is likely to get delayed at least by seven days. The approximate date for final roll publication is likely to be February 21.
Election-bound states ramp up welfare cash for women
States are boosting cash handouts for women voters as elections approach. West Bengal's Lakshmir Bhandar scheme sees a 500 monthly hike. Kerala earmarks 3,720 crore for its Sthree Suraksha Scheme. Bihar adds 3,000 annually to PM-Kisan for women entrepreneurs. Punjab plans 1,000 monthly for women. These moves signal a trend of pre-poll financial promises.
SIR woes continue on the last day of hearing in West Bengal
The Trinamool Congress highlights the plight of people, including incidents such as death of two people on the way to the hearing centre. The BJP alleges hooliganism by the ruling party at the hearing centres.
Permanent resident certificate admissible under SIR 2026: Election Commission
The Election Commission of India has confirmed that a Permanent Resident Certificate is a valid document for the ongoing special intensive revision of electoral rolls in West Bengal. This clarification follows earlier communications regarding the Special Intensive Revision guidelines.
WB SET result 2026 expected to be released soon: Check details here
The WB SET Result 2026 is expected to be announced soon on the West Bengal College Service Commissions official portal. Conducted in December 2025 across 33 subjects, the state-level exam determines eligibility for Assistant Professor posts in West Bengal colleges. Qualified candidates can access scorecards, cut-offs, and further recruitment updates online.
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], February 7: Cultural activist, philanthropist, and Managing Trustee of the Prabha Khaitan Foundation, Mr Sundeep Bhutoria, has been honoured with a Certificate of Recognition by the City of Artesia, California (CA), during his recent visit to the United States to attend the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.
West Bengal Assembly Speaker allows TMC proposal condemning comments made by BJP MLA
Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay alleged in a letter signed by several other senior members that Ms. Agnimitra Paul's comments were against the secular spirit of our country and this august House. I had already made it clear yesterday that such comments will not be allowed, says Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay
WHO confirms one Nipah virus death in Bangladesh, weeks after two cases in West Bengal
The WHO said that the risk of international disease spread is considered low and that it does not recommend any travel or trade restrictions based on current information
Congress decision to go solo wont impact Left Fronts prospect in WB Assembly polls: Md Salim
The Congress party on February 5, 2026, announced that it will contest independently in all the 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal, ending speculation of any electoral understanding with the Left Front in the polls due in next few months
Another BLO Dies as SIR Exercise Continues in West Bengal
Maya Mukherjee's son disclosed that she had a heart attack due to panic over fears of voter anger from electoral discrepancies.
Differently abled voters need to queue up for SIR hearings in West Bengal despite ECI directives
Despite Election Commission exemptions, differently abled persons report long waits, inadequatefacilitiesand distress during SIRhearing
Disabled voters need to queue up for SIR hearings in West Bengal despite ECI directives
Despite Election Commission exemptions, persons with disabilities report long waits, inadequatefacilitiesand distress during SIRhearing
ECI Extends UP Electoral Roll Update by One Month; Final List On April 10
This is the fourth time the state has been given extension even as a highly-populated state like West Bengal complained not getting sufficient time to complete SIR exercise with ease: Reports
West Bengal Budget shows State sinking into abyss of appeasement politics under Mamata: BJP
An ugly and terrifying glimpse of the Mamata Banerjee government's dastardly appeasement policies was clearly visible in the Budget presented in the State Assembly, says BJP national spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi
Darjeeling Toy Train Service Hits Record Revenue Of Rs 24.6 Crore In 2025
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) toy train service is one of the most popular tourist attractions in West Bengal.
ECI completes observer briefing for Assam, TN, Kerala, WB polls
The Election Commission of India on Thursday, February 5, concluded its briefing programme for 1,444 Central Observers who will be deployed for the forthcoming Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. According to the Commission, the briefing sessions were held in three batches over two days on February 5 and 6 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 .
Supreme Showdown: Unpacking Mamata Banerjees Relentless Opposition to ECs SIR
Mamata Banerjees strategy may not halt the SIR but could cement her as the indomitable Didi In the lead-up to West Bengals 2026 assembly elections, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees fierce opposition to the Election Commissions Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has escalated into a high-stakes confrontation, culminating in... The post Supreme Showdown: Unpacking Mamata Banerjees Relentless Opposition to ECs SIR appeared first on HW News English .
Congress To Contest All 294 Seats Solo In West Bengal Assembly Polls
The Congress announced that it will contest independently in all the 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal in the forthcoming Assembly elections in the state scheduled this year, without going for any kind of seat-sharing arrangement
Ensure compliance with all poll laws: EC to observers
Addressing central observers at India International Institute of Democracy and Electoral Management (IIIDEM) here, chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said they had been picked by EC to act as its beacons for the assembly polls in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. Polls in the four states and Puducherry are likely to be held in April-May. A total of 1,444 observers are to be briefed in three batches on Thursday and Friday.
Unlike in 3 other opposition states, West Bengal sees governor-govt cordiality
West Bengal governor CV Ananda Bose read out portions of the address highlighting law and order, including references to Kolkata being among the safest cities in the country. In a rare display of cordiality, he was even seen briefly holding hands and speaking with CM Mamata Banerjee after his address, prompting BJP legislators to sarcastically comment well done, as he exited the House.
Bengal SIR throws up bizarre parentage entries, shows one voter with over 300 children
West Bengal's electoral roll revision has uncovered shocking anomalies. One individual in Birbhum's Nanoor is listed as the father of 389 children. In Howrah's Sankrail, 310 voters share a single parent. The Election Commission of India has written to the Chief Secretary regarding these and other discrepancies, demanding action by February 9.
Mamata Banerjee advances enhanced payouts to women ahead of state election
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will boost Lakshmir Bhandar benefits from February 2026. This move aims to strengthen the financial standing of approximately 2.42 crore women. SC/ST women will receive an additional 500, bringing their total to 1,700. General category women will also get an extra 500, increasing their payout to 1,500.
TMCgovt. hikes monthly aid for women, unveils scheme for unemployed
4.06-lakh-croreinterim budget tabled ahead of West Bengal Assembly election; under BanglarYubaSathi, monthly allowance of 1,500 will be given to jobless youth;BJPterms it a deception
West Bengal economy projected to grow at 7.6% in FY26: Economic Review
West Bengal's economy is set for robust growth. Projections indicate a 7.62 percent expansion in the 2025-26 financial year. The state's Gross State Domestic Product is expected to reach approximately Rs 19.91 lakh crore. This growth outpaces India's projected GDP expansion. The review highlights significant improvements in fiscal and social indicators since 2010-11.
Election Commission holds briefing for observers in poll-bound States
Assembly elections are to be held in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal
Mamata Banerjee Says Bengal Interim Budget 'Pro-People' Unlike Union Budget
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said that the interim budget tabled by her government in the assembly is pro-people and shows fiscal discipline, unlike the directionless and rudderless Union Budget.
West Bengal hikes Lakshmir Bhandar allowance, raises pay for ASHA, anganwadi workers ahead of polls
West Bengal's government has boosted allowances for women and incomes for civic volunteers, asha, and anganwadi workers. These hikes come before the upcoming assembly elections. The Lakshmir Bhandar scheme sees a Rs 500 monthly increase for women. Other workers will receive a Rs 1000 raise.
West Bengal polls: Congress to fight alone, eye all 294 seats
The Congress party will contest all 294 seats in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections on its own. This decision was finalized after a meeting of top party leaders and West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee representatives. The party aims to strengthen its position by contesting independently. Past alliances have reportedly demotivated grassroots workers. The elections are expected in April-May.
West Bengal CM criticises Union Budget, calls state Budget welfare-focused
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee called the states Rs 4.06 lakh crore interim budget pro-people and fiscally disciplined, prioritising welfare for women, youth, and workers, while criticising the Union Budget as directionless and rudderless
Congress To Go Solo In West Bengal Polls, Contest All 294 Seats
Forming an alliance in the state in the past had demoralised Congress workers at the grassroots level, says West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unveiled a pro-people interim budget. She stated the budget prioritizes citizens' welfare and demonstrates fiscal discipline. Banerjee contrasted it with the Union Budget, calling it directionless. The state government allocated funds focusing on women, youth, workers, and vulnerable sections. This budget aims to balance welfare spending with financial prudence.
Supreme Court directs West Bengal govt to pay dearness allowance to its employees from 2008-2019
The Supreme Court has ordered the West Bengal government to pay dearness allowance to its employees. This payment covers the period from 2008 to 2019. The court has directed the state to pay 25 percent of the outstanding DA by March 6. A committee will determine the total amount and payment schedule.
West Bengal has presented an interim budget of Rs 4.06 lakh crore for fiscal year 2026-27. A key proposal includes an additional Rs 500 monthly increase for women under the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme, effective February 2026. Additionally, gig workers will now be covered by state social security programs like Swasthyasathi.
West Bengal Govt. moves resolution in Assembly over 'hardships' due to SIR; Speaker rejects
Speaker Biman Banerjee contended that since the matter was pending before the Supreme Court, the Assembly could not deliberate on it
Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi met with West Bengal Congress leaders. This comes as the state prepares for assembly elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party also held a meeting with its West Bengal MPs. BJP National President Nitin Nabin offered guidance. The Trinamool Congress has not initiated alliance talks. Political parties are strategizing for the upcoming high-voltage contest.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated her government will provide land for border fencing. However, she insisted the central government must first withdraw its decision to expand the Border Security Force's jurisdiction.
SC Directs West Bengal Govt To Recalculate DA, Pay Pending Arrears, 1st Installment By March 31
Supreme Court formed a panel led by Justice Indu Malhotra to determine calculation and phased payment of pending dearness allowance to Bengal employees.
SC directs WB government to pay DA to employees by March; BJP hails verdict
The Supreme Court has ordered West Bengal to pay dearness allowance to its employees as per the 2008 pay rules, stating financial constraints are no excuse. While upholding the entitlement to DA under state rules, the court clarified it's not a fundamental right, unlike a previous High Court ruling.
