Bengal: Online gaming money dispute behind Baranagar womans murder
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) A dispute over money linked to online gaming led to the murder of a 26-year-old woman in North 24 Parganas district's Baranagar earlier this week, police investigators revealed on Saturday after a local court remanded the prime accused to 10 days of police custody. The accused, Dharamvir Kumar, who had fled West Bengal following the murder, was arrested from another state on Friday and brought back on transit remand. He was produced before the Barrackpore court on Saturday, where investigators sought his custodial remand for further questioning and to reconstruct the crime scene. According to the police, the victim, Anjali Sau of Dunlop, and Kumar met around three years ago while playing the online game PUBG in group sessions. The two gradually grew close and would occasionally meet at a flat in Shitalamata Lane under Ward No. 17 of Baranagar Municipality, which belonged to Anjali's sister and brother-in-law, who currently reside in Serampore in Hooghly district. Preliminary interrogation of Kumar indicates that a substantial sum of money was deposited in Anjali's gaming account, and an argument over sharing those funds is suspected to have triggered the murder. Investigators stated that while the probe has made significant headway, further custodial questioning is required to determine the exact financial dispute and ascertain whether any other motive was involved. Police had recovered Anjali's body from the Baranagar flat last Tuesday. Suspicion immediately fell on Kumar after CCTV camera footage from the premises captured him entering the flat on Tuesday and leaving in the afternoon. Meanwhile, the victim's family has alleged in their complaint that gold ornaments and Anjali's mobile phone were missing from the flat following the incident. Police are verifying whether the valuables were taken by the accused after the murder.
Opposition parties, civil rights groups come together to save voters rights in West Bengal
The new platform calls for a mass convention in Kolkata on November 21, invites other parties and people whose names were unlawfully removed from electoral rolls to take part
West Bengal Minister Calls for Expulsion of CPI(M) Leader Mohammad Salim
West Bengal Minister Arjun Singh labels CPI(M) leader Mohammad Salim as anti-national, urging his removal from the country. West Bengal Minister Calls for Expulsion of CPI(M) Leader Mohammad Salim
West Bengal: Abhishek Faces Cops' Grilling For Online Post
But I respect the law of this country and cooperated with the police like earlier: Diamond Harbour Trinamul Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee
Tragic Accident Claims Life of Student During Kali Puja Immersion in West Bengal
An 18-year-old girl died after her hair got caught in a generator during Kali Puja immersion in West Bengals Taherpur. Tragic Accident Claims Life of Student During Kali Puja Immersion in West Bengal
Abhishek Banerjees Aide Claims Safety in Custody Amid Murder Allegations
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh claims TMC aide Sumit Roy is only safe in custody, fearing murder upon release due to sensitive information. Abhishek Banerjees Aide Claims Safety in Custody Amid Murder Allegations
Abhishek Banerjee Claims Police Harassment with False Cases
Abhishek Banerjee alleges West Bengal police are filing false cases against him, following a lengthy questioning related to a controversial social media post. Abhishek Banerjee Claims Police Harassment with False Cases
BJP to Assess Impact of Anti-SIR Protests Across West Bengals 294 Assembly Seats
The BJP plans to evaluate the effects of anti-SIR protests across all 294 assembly constituencies in West Bengal. BJP to Assess Impact of Anti-SIR Protests Across West Bengals 294 Assembly Seats
WBPDCL Technician Apprentice Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 60 Posts
The West Bengal Power Development Corporation Limited (WBPDCL) has invited online applications for 60 Technician Apprentice posts. Applications can be submitted at wbpdcl.co.in from 20 November 2026 to 10 December 2026.
Drink at home, not on streets: Bengal minister Umesh Rai warns drunk troublemakers
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) A video purportedly showing West Bengal Minister of State for Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Umesh Rai warning anti-social elements against creating disturbances under the influence of alcohol has gone viral on social media. However, IANS India could not independently verify the authenticity of the video and cannot vouch for its contents. According to the video, Rai, who represents the Howrah Uttar Assembly constituency, has warned that anyone found disturbing public order after consuming alcohol or engaging in activities that threaten women's safety would face stringent action. He reportedly went a step further, saying that anyone accused of molesting a woman, if the allegation is established through an investigation, would be driven out of the area. The minister's remarks, which came to light on Saturday, were reportedly made during a public meeting on Friday, where he addressed concerns over public safety and disturbances caused by intoxicated people in different parts of Howrah. Drawing a distinction between personal freedom and public nuisance, Rai said he had no objection to people consuming alcohol at their homes, clubs, rooftops or designated places, provided they did not create trouble for others. Who is drinking and where he is drinking alcohol is completely his personal matter. I have no objection if someone drinks alcohol at his own expense in a club, at home, on a rooftop or at a specific place. The good or bad of one's health is a personal responsibility of a person. But if a person drinks alcohol and goes out on the streets and creates ruckus and hooliganism, it will not be tolerated in any way, the minister said, according to the video. Women's safety featured prominently in his address, with the minister urging residents, particularly women, to report incidents of harassment and molestation directly to him. Issuing a stern warning to potential offenders, Rai reportedly said that if a woman complained of molestation and an investigation established the allegation, the accused would face such stringent action that he would be forced to leave the locality. The minister's remarks come amid complaints from residents about disturbances allegedly caused by people consuming alcohol in public places, particularly during the evening hours, in several neighbourhoods of the industrial town. His statement has received support from several residents of North Howrah, with many welcoming his warning against public nuisance and offences targeting women. Political observers believe the minister's intervention is aimed at addressing public concerns over law and order and strengthening confidence among residents. However, the impact of the warning on street-level disturbances and women's safety remains to be seen.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) The West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided to conduct an Assembly constituency-wise assessment of the impact of the nationwide movement launched by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and Opposition parties against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The party's state leadership has drawn up a plan to deploy special review teams in all 294 Assembly constituencies in West Bengal. Each team will interact with at least 200 people representing different financial, professional, social, ethnic and religious backgrounds to gauge public opinion on the anti-SIR campaign. Apart from assessing the public response to the nationwide protests, the teams will also undertake a counter-campaign to present the BJP's position on the electoral roll revision and counter the arguments being raised by the CJP and opposition parties. The CJP-Opposition ploy to create chaos and anarchy in the country will be exposed before the general public through leaflets and arguments. This exercise will be an extension of the recent 'Save Democracy, Eliminate Anarchy' rallies organised in different parts of the state against the anti-SIR movement, a member of the BJP's state committee said. According to the party leader, the exercise will be conducted in several stages. In the first phase, the teams will identify at least 200 individuals in each Assembly constituency, ensuring representation from different economic, professional, social, ethnic and religious groups. In the next phase, members of the teams will visit the identified individuals at their homes and interact with them. Initially, they will focus on listening to their views on the nationwide anti-SIR campaign without attempting to influence their opinions. Only after listening to their concerns and understanding their perceptions will the team members initiate the counter-campaign by explaining the party's position on the issue, the BJP leader said. The outreach programme will cover people from different walks of life, including workers, farmers, lawyers, teachers, doctors and other professionals. The party also intends to engage representatives of various communities and local opinion makers to obtain a wider understanding of public sentiment. The BJP leadership plans to compile the feedback gathered from all 294 Assembly constituencies into a comprehensive report and forward it to the party's central leadership. The exercise is expected to help the party assess the extent to which the opposition's campaign against the SIR has influenced public opinion in West Bengal and formulate its political response accordingly.
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 14 (IANS) Trinamool Congress-Mamta General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee has been summoned by Kolkata Police on Saturday for questioning over his social media post targeting the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), Gyanesh Kumar. Abhishek, the nephew of the former West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, had been asked to be present at Bhabanipur Police Station in south Kolkata on Saturday. After his social media post on May 2, in which he allegedly made derogatory criticisms about the CEC, an FIR was filed against him on May 27. Now, the police want to question him in the matter, and that is why he had been summoned for interrogation on Saturday afternoon, said an insider from Kolkata Police. The FIR was registered based on a police complaint lodged by Arnabkanti Das, a resident of Bhabanipur, objecting to the social media post, where the Trinamool leader allegedly described the CEC as a puppet of an anti-Bengali Gujarati gang and thus spreading hatred against a particular community. Based on this complaint, the police have filed a case against Abhishek Banerjee under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 relating to spreading hatred, inciting violence, attempting to create chaos, inciting crime against the state, and spreading rumours. The complainant claimed that Abhishek Banerjee made some comments which are harmful to communal harmony and national integrity. He contended that despite taking an oath as an MP to protect the sovereignty of the Indian Constitution and the territorial integrity of the country, Abhishek had referred to the entire Gujarati community as a 'gang' or criminal group. This, according to the complainant, apart from insulting the community, could also destroy the pluralistic culture and social harmony of the country. Therefore, he demanded immediate action against the Diamond Harbour MP. On Friday, another FIR was registered against Abhishek Banerjee at the Girish Park Police Station in north Kolkata, where he had been accused of making derogatory statements and threatening a serving Indian Police Service (IPS) officer in the state. A notice for interrogation in the matter was served at Abhishek Banerjees residence at Kalighat in south Kolkata on Friday night,, where he was asked to appear at the Girish Park Police Station by 12 noon on November 20.
Lights, camera, Ganguly: Inside a family that lives cinema
Siliguri, November 14: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang attended the MP Deusi-Bhailo Mahotsav at Milan More, Champasari, in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, emphasising the importance of preserving traditional languages, customs and cultural heritage while strengthening unity and brotherhood among communities. The cultural celebration was organised through the initiative of Darjeeling Member of [] The post Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang Attends MP Deusi-Bhailo Mahotsav at Milan More, Calls for Preservation of Cultural Heritage appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
File FIR against those who tarnish partys image says Bengal BJP chief
BJP has reached here (came to power) by keeping them out. BJP has no need to touch them, West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said, adding that doors of the party are closed for outsiders.
File FIR against those who tarnish partys image says Bengal BJP chief
BJP has reached here (came to power) by keeping them out. BJP has no need to touch them, West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said, adding that doors of the party are closed for outsiders.
Why Indians behave better at sacred sites
The tranquil and indescribably beautiful environs of Kamarpukur and Joyrambati, the birthplaces of Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa and Maa Sarada Devi in the verdant plains of West Bengal, are truly balms for the soul. Green-gold vistas of ripening rice fields criss-crossed by a myriad of small rivers and dotted with distant sleepy hamlets greeted the eye as a friend and I headed there from Kolkata. And the early morning autumn sun cast a golden, almost divine glow.It was a world away from the pollution-spewing trucks and buses, factories and warehouses that crowd the suburbs of Kolkata beyond the graceful Vidyasagar Setu arching over the Hooghly. Once the cacophony of the Durgapur Expressway was left behind, there was a perceptible change in mood. Anyone who lives in a frenetic big city these days would vouch that stress is endemic and heading out, away from the madding crowds, leads to an instant lowering of tension.And peace is the overwhelming feeling upon entering the impeccably maintained compounds in both villages that contain not only the quaintly thatched huts where the two elevated souls came into this world, but also prayer halls, offices, bhog areas, dispensaries, guesthouses and flower-filled gardens. Given that thousands - exceeding 20,000 on important days - visit Kamarpukur and Joyrambati daily and stay on for bhog prasad, the compounds' serenity is hard to believe.And their cleanliness stuns. Forget jhalmuri packets, tissue papers or plastic water bottles, not even fallen leaves or dust mar the pathways and gardens. It is not as if there are armies of sweepers on hand to pick up detritus either; visitors are simply more mindful while on the premises. How come? After all Indians these days are notorious for being loud, littering gits, on par with British lager louts. It seems that it all depends on whether places inspire respect and restraint.In the expansive hallowed campuses of Kamarpukur and Joyrambati, these same people - Indians - did not talk loudly; they did not try to scratch their initials on pillars; they did not drape themselves on walls or amid the flowers to take selfies; they did not throw trash into the ponds; and they did not let their children turn into screeching, high-speed, wrecking balls. Polite attendants firmly told the few infringers to abide by the rules. And they all willingly complied.I have seen a similar all-pervasive calm at the Belur Math of the Ramakrishna Mission near Kolkata, the Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry and the Golden Temple in Amritsar, thousands of miles apart. There are more such places around India where desi visitors are anything but the kind of Ugly Indian Tourist that locals complain about from Goa to Gangtok, Kashmir to Kanyakumari. That just begs the question why Indians are so badly behaved in many other places.An overwhelming majority of those who come to Kamarpukur and Joyrambati are devotees. They, therefore, know the sanctity of those places and behave accordingly. The same is true of the sacred precincts at Belur, Pondicherry and Amritsar. But why is the same courtesy not extended to all places they visit? Do only the divine merit courtesy, cleanliness and calm? The public's behaviour at these places show that Indians can be model visitors when we want to be.At Kamarpukur and Joyrambati it is hard to be anything but ideal visitors, though. There's something about the cumulative effect of their soothing tranquillity broken only by birdsong and trees rustling in the autumn breeze, the fresh flowers artfully arranged around the statues of Sri Ramkrishna and Maa Sarada Devi, and the smiling sanyasis telling stories of the divine couple's limitless humanity and humbleness... On the journey back to Kolkata, our hearts were full.
Indonesian woman held at Indo-Nepal border: UP cops to probe Kol links
Assault, molestation cases reported across Kol during Kali Puja immersions
Kol Yoga instructor killed over PUBG romance: Cops
NKDA guard electrocuted while operating water pump at New Town clock tower
Bank manager accused in Rs 2.7 crore fraud case
Kolkata Police files charge sheet in Free School Street hotel fire case
Bihari organisations in city urge devotees to follow firework rules
Death reignites safety outcry on industrial transit corridor
12-year-old class 6 student cycling home from tuition crushed under truck in Majerhat
Woman loses Rs 62L in matrimonial portal fraud
Minister bats for stricter wetland norms, rainwater conservation
Tala water crisis may require full-day Palta closure
Bengal 5th in studies linking air pollution to health risks
Filmmaker Ronny Sen scales SRFTI wall for counter workshop; alumni panel records testimonies
Father, son found dead at Nagerbazar flat
Class 12 boy ends life on video call, girlfriend follows suit
Rs 17,000 for one way: Airfares soar on Bihar-Jkhand sector
West Bengal: 9-year-old girl strangled to death over jewellery in Murshidabad; teenager detained
A nine-year-old girl was allegedly strangled to death in West Bengal's Murshidabad district over her gold earrings and silver jewellery. Police have detained a 15-year-old girl in connection with the murder, which reportedly took place...
Fresh FIR registered against Abhishek Banerjee; summons served for questioning on Nov 20
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) A fresh First Information Report (FIR) was registered on Friday against Trinamool Congress (TMC) National General Secretary and Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha MP Abhishek Banerjee at the Girish Park Police Station in North Kolkata, accusing him of making derogatory remarks and threatening a serving Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. A notice summoning Banerjee for questioning was served at his residence late Friday evening, directing him to appear at the Girish Park Police Station by 12 noon on November 20. According to police sources, the case was registered based on a complaint lodged by a local woman who alleged that Banerjee, nephew of former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, had obstructed police functioning by issuing threats and making derogatory comments against a serving IPS officer and other police personnel in the state. The controversy stems from remarks made by the Diamond Harbour MP last month regarding state police officials, including West Midnapore Superintendent of Police Papia Sultana, without explicitly naming them. During a public interaction caught on camera last month, Banerjee had warned that the names of allegedly biased police officers were being noted and that necessary action would be taken against them in the future. He had also made personal remarks directed at the West Midnapore SP without naming her, alleging that she was framing TMC leaders and workers in false cases to appease Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. There was no immediate reaction from Banerjee or the Trinamool Congress leadership regarding the fresh FIR and summons at the time of filing this report.
Constable Shot In Birbhum, Accused Flees
A police constable was injured after being shot in the leg by an accused during an arrest attempt in West Bengal's Birbhum district on Friday. The accused managed to flee the scene, and an investigation is currently underway.
Once Hungry Herself, Kajuli Now Feeds Nearly 100 People Every Day Across West Bengal
After experiencing childhood hunger and personal hardships, Kajuli Biswas turned her struggles into a mission to provide daily meals to nearly 100 people in West Bengal.
Tejashwi Yadav targets Samrat Choudhary govt over crime, corruption and land grabbing in Bihar
Digital Desk | Patna, Nov 13 (IANS) Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Working President and Bihar's Leader of Opposition (LoP), Tejashwi Yadav, on Friday launched a fresh attack on the Samrat Choudhary-led NDA government, accusing it of failing to control crime, corruption and land grabbing in the state. In a detailed post on social media platform X, Tejashwi alleged that ruling NDA legislators and Ministers were themselves involved in criminal activities and exploiting the public. Targeting Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, the LoP alleged that the protection extended by those in power had emboldened legislators and Ministers to indulge in criminal activities. He claimed that government land encroachment, murder of officials, corruption, extortion, robbery and dacoity were increasing rapidly in Bihar. There is effectively no government left in Bihar, Tejashwi remarked, alleging that NDA MLAs were now involved in looting the public and that corruption and crime had crossed all limits. He also questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the allegations against NDA legislators, asking them to explain their silence. Tejashwi cited several incidents to substantiate his allegations, including a controversy over the alleged encroachment of government and public land in the Tardih block of Darbhanga district. He accused BJP MLA Maithili Thakur and her father, Ramesh Thakur, of illegally occupying government land allegedly worth several hundred crore rupees, besides public roads, community funeral and ritual grounds, and private plots. The RJD leader claimed that the administration had verified complaints regarding the alleged encroachments. He also took a swipe at the BJP legislator over the issue. Referring to a major robbery in Darbhanga, Tejashwi alleged that a driver working for a bullion trader from West Bengal was shot at and around 62 kg of silver, along with cash, was looted. He claimed that Vishal Mahaseth, who has been arrested or named as an accused in the case, had links with certain Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders. He questioned why the Bihar government and NDA leaders had not responded to the incident. Tejashwi also raised the issue of alleged arms and ammunition smuggling in Bihar. He claimed that 44,000 live cartridges had been recovered from individuals associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He also alleged that the smuggling network had trafficked several tonnes of bombs and ammunition. Targeting legislators of Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas, Tejashwi accused the party's Belsand MLA of grabbing land worth crores of rupees in Muzaffarpur and Sitamarhi districts. According to him, police records indicate that a gang of around 50 people was operating in the area to carry out land grabbing and extortion. He also alleged that an LJP-Ram Vilas MLA's name had surfaced in connection with the murder of the executive officer of the Dehri-Dalmianagar Municipal Council in Rohtas district. Citing allegations made by the deceased officer's wife, Tejashwi claimed that the murder was linked to the non-payment of a commission. He further accused an LJP-Ram Vilas MLA in Bhagalpur of forcibly occupying land after firing 10 rounds. The RJD leader also raised allegations involving a Bihar government Minister. He claimed that an incident of alleged misconduct involving a young woman had taken place at a five-star hotel in Delhi and that a financial transaction was subsequently made to suppress the matter. Linking these allegations to what he described as the NDA government's actics, character and true face, Tejashwi questioned the functioning of the state administration and accused the ruling coalition of failing to ensure accountability. Through his social media post, the RJD leader sought to put the NDA government on the defensive by citing a series of alleged incidents involving BJP and LJP-Ram Vilas leaders. The allegations, however, remain claims made by Tejashwi, and responses from the leaders concerned and the state government are awaited.
Odisha CM highlights Kudumi heritage, reaffirms commitment to communitys development
Digital Desk | Bhubaneswar, Nov 13 (IANS) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday lauded the Kudumi communitys ancient traditions, hard work and love for nature, and assured it of the state governments firm commitment to its economic, social and cultural development. CM Majhi made the remarks while addressing a mega cultural programme of the Kudumi community, National Bandana Parab-2026, organised in Mayurbhanj district on Friday. On the auspicious occasion, the Chief Minister extended his warm greetings and congratulations to all members of the Kudumi community. He reaffirmed the government's firm commitment to the social, economic, educational and cultural development of the Kudumi community as part of the State's inclusive development model. Speaking on the occasion, Majhi said, Bandana is not merely a festival but a living poem of the deep bond between nature, the soil, cattle wealth and human relationships. This symbol of nature worship, reverence for agrarian culture and devotion to the soil is the very soul of our culture. He further said the Kudumi community are son of the soil, and their dedication and hard work in making the land fertile and productive offered valuable lessons for society. The unique way in which this community worships nature as a mother and lives in harmony with trees and plants, hills, rivers and streams, and the animal kingdom offers a guiding example for the entire human society, Majhi noted. Praising the bond between the Santhal and Kudumi communities in the Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj regions, the Chief Minister said brotherhood has always occupied a place of prominence in tribal culture. Recalling his childhood days growing up alongside Kudumi families in his village, he shared fond memories of visiting Dhenguan, a traditional community procession or ritual associated with the Bandana festival and enjoying traditional pithas (rice cakes). He also acknowledged the significant role played by members of the Kudumi community as his associates in the political sphere. The Chief Minister highlighted the Kudumi communitys history and social contributions, noting that it is spread across Odisha, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat and Maharashtra. He said Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar emerged as the principal settlements of the community after the formation of the separate Odisha province, while Baripada came to be known as the unofficial capital of Odisha's Kudumi community. Describing the Kudumis as self-respecting, loyal and patriotic, he said the community believes in overcoming challenges through hard work and has made its mark in agriculture, trade and other professions. He also referred to the community's long-standing demands for ST status and inclusion of Kudumali in the Constitutions Eighth Schedule.
Bengal special summary revision draft roll to be out on Nov 23
Kolkata: The Election Commission will publish the draft electoral rolls for West Bengal on November 23, with the final voters list scheduled to be released on January 16, 2027, as part of a Special Summary Revision (SSR), a statement said on Friday, November 13. The revision will be conducted with January 1, 2027, as the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
The Election Commission of India (ECI) will publish the draft electoral rolls for West Bengal on November 23, 2026, with the final voters list scheduled for release on January 16, 2027, as part of its Special Summary Revision (SSR) exercise. According to an official statement issued by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) [] The post West Bengal Draft Voter List to Be Published on November 23, Final Electoral Rolls on 16 January 2027 appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Bengal draft voter list on Nov 23, final electoral rolls on Jan 16
The Election Commission will publish the draft electoral rolls for West Bengal on November 23, with the final voters' list scheduled to be released on January 16, 2027, as part of a Special Summary Revision (SSR), a statement said on Friday. The revision will be conducted with January 1, 2027, as the qualifying date, allowing those who turn 18 by then to enrol as voters, it said. According to the schedule announced by the Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) office, electors can submit claims and objections between November 23 and December 22. The disposal of applications will be completed by January 8. Special campaign days will be held at designated polling stations across the state on November 28 and 29, and December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20 to facilitate public participation, the statement said. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will be available at polling stations on these days to assist voters with fresh enrolment, correction of particulars and submission of claims and objections. Boot
Amit Shah to chair 28th meeting of Eastern Zonal Council in Odisha on November 29
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to chair the 28th meeting of the Eastern Zonal Council in Odisha on November 29, covering a wide range of issues of national importance such as implementation of Fast Track Special Courts for speedy trial and speedy disposal of rape cases against women and children, among others. Issues like brick-and-mortar banking facilities within the designated radius of each village, implementation of Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112) and various issues of common interest at the regional level, including nutrition, education, health, power, urban planning and strengthening of cooperative systems, are also learnt to be discussed in the day-long meeting. The Eastern Zonal Council comprises the states of Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. The meeting is learnt to be attended by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari...
Forming fact-finding panel by agitating students unauthorised, aimed at fomenting tension: SRFTI
The Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, since September 27, has been investigated by a special investigation team constituted by the West Bengal government
West Bengal Pilgrim Bus Collides with Truck in Jajpur, Several Hurt
Nine passengers sustained injuriestwo of them criticallyafter a tourist bus carrying approximately 55 pilgrims from West Bengal collided with a stationary truck in Odishas Jajpur district early Friday morning. The mishap occurred on the Badachana Bridge along National Highway-16 (NH-16), under the jurisdiction of the Badachana police station. According to preliminary reports, the ill-fated bus, [] The post West Bengal Pilgrim Bus Collides with Truck in Jajpur, Several Hurt appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
EBITDA rises 59.79% to 26.69 Cr, powered by robust demand for lightweight 22K and 18K gold jewellery and an expanding B2B partner network Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], November 13: Pushpa
Following the bulldozer action at Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee's residence, West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Friday asserted that any form of illegal encroachment was being removed, adding that Banerjee was ot intentionally targeted. The West Bengal minister also flagged the shortage of roads and footpaths in Kolkata, and said that illegal constructions are being demolished in many places. Speaking to ANI, he said, Any form of illegal encroachment is being removed. There is a shortage of roads and footpaths in Kolkata; if someone constructs a building in such areas, it causes inconvenience to the general public. This is happening everywhere
The Calcutta High Court on Thursday took strong exception to remarks made by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee allegedly suggesting that a section of the judiciary was acting under the influence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Justice Krishna Rao, while hearing Banerjees petition challenging the West Bengal governments decision to downgrade his security [] The post Name the judges who are with BJP: Calcutta High Court questions Abhishek Banerjee over remarks against Judiciary appeared first on India Legal .
Bulldozer Action Outside Abhishek Banerjees Home Sparks Controversy in Kolkata
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh defends bulldozer action against illegal constructions, stating its a broader issue beyond Abhishek Banerjee. Bulldozer Action Outside Abhishek Banerjees Home Sparks Controversy in Kolkata
Kolkata Police file chargesheet in hotel fire case, name three
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) Kolkata Police informed on Friday that their investigating team probing the devastating fire at Hotel Shikha Inn on Mirza Ghalib Street, which killed nine people, including a child, on the intervening night of August 18 and 19, had submitted the chargesheet in the case. In the chargesheet filed at a lower court in Kolkata on Thursday, three persons have been named. The first name in the chargesheet is Bireshwar Moitra, the original owner of the hotel Shikha Inn, where the fire tragedy happened. The second person named in the chargesheet is Abu Zafar, who took the hotel on lease from Moitra. The third person named in the chargesheet is Abus wife, Saba Zafar, who was the last to be arrested by the city police last month after she had been absconding since the tragedy took place. The chargesheet contains recorded statements of 90 witnesses, said a city police official. The accused have been charged under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, relating to involuntary murder, attempted involuntary murder, endangering life and conspiracy. A forensic report has also been submitted along with it. The 350-page chargesheet also highlights the horror of the incident. The chargesheet mentions how the originally bigger hotel rooms were demolished and converted into multiple smaller rooms. Almost every room had AC. Installing so many ACs without following any rules resulted in an overload of electricity. The fire spread from the board and started consuming the rooms, the city police officer said. The chargesheet also stated that the building, which housed several hotels, including Shikha Inn, was actually a residential complex that was illegally converted into a hotel later, without the permission of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and the West Bengal Fire Services Department authorities. The fire broke out on the third floor of the building housing Hotel Shikha Inn and several other lodges. The hotel rooms quickly filled with thick smoke, causing most of the nine victims to die of suffocation. The majority of those who lost their lives were Bangladeshi nationals visiting Kolkata for medical treatment. The original hotel owner, Bireshwar Moitra, initially fled after the incident but was arrested shortly after at his residence in Behala, on Kolkata's southern outskirts. During interrogation, he disclosed that he had leased the hotel to Abu Zafar and his wife, Saba Zafar, for a monthly rent of Rs 40,000. While police arrested Abu shortly after, Saba managed to evade capture until her arrest on October 28.
SBI General Insurance steps up road safety initiatives in Ladakh
Leh, Nov 12:SBI General Insurance has launched a road safety and emergency healthcare initiative in Ladakh in collaboration with humanitarian organisation Doers, the Ladakh Police and the Health Department to strengthen emergency medical response and promote safer roads in the region. As part of the initiative, the company handed over a fully equipped Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulance to the Health Department on October 28 to ensure timely medical assistance to road accident victims during the critical golden hour. The ambulance was flagged off at Sonam Norboo Memorial (SNM) Hospital in Leh under the project titled Road Safety: Ambulances in the Indian Himalayan Region. Recognising the challenges posed by Ladakhs high-altitude terrain, long distances between settlements and extreme weather conditions, the initiative also focuses on accident prevention and improving road safety infrastructure. Under the programme, 40 retro-reflective road safety warning signboards have been installed at accident-prone locations identified in coordination with the Ladakh Police. The signboards are aimed at alerting motorists to potential hazards and encouraging safer driving practices, particularly on vulnerable stretches used by residents, tourists and other travellers. The flag-off ceremony was attended by Dr Laltinkhuma Franklin, IAS, Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department, Union Territory of Ladakh. Dr Rinchen Chosdol, Chief Medical Officer, Leh; Shatrughna Singh, Head of Compliance, SBI General Insurance; and Anuradha Bhardwaj, Head of Programmes, Doers, were also present, along with representatives of the concerned departments and organisations. Speaking on the initiative, Rathin Lahiri, Head-Marketing and CSR, SBI General Insurance, said timely emergency support could save lives in a region like Ladakh, where difficult terrain and long distances often delay access to medical care. He said the companys responsibility extended beyond providing insurance to supporting communities through interventions addressing critical needs on the ground. Through the initiative, SBI General Insurance aims to strengthen emergency response mechanisms and promote safer roads in Ladakh, while working in partnership with Doers, the Ladakh Police and the Health Department. The programme will also be extended to six other Himalayan statesHimachal Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Sikkim, Meghalaya and Uttarakhandto strengthen road safety measures and emergency medical response across the Himalayan region.
NIA team visits Kulgam attack site
Srinagar, Nov 12:The National Investigation Agency (NIA) team visited the site of Wednesdays attack on a CRPF checkpoint near Mir Bazar in Kulgam district on Thursday even as preliminary investigations indicated that at least three terrorists, two of them believed to be foreign nationals, were involved in the strike. A National Investigation Agency (NIA) team on Thursday visited the site of the terror attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) checkpoint in south Kashmirs Kulgam district, a senior police officer said. The team inspected the spot to gather forensic evidence and examine the circumstances surrounding the attack, in which three CRPF personnel were injured. The samples collected from the scene are expected to assist investigators in establishing the sequence of events and identifying those involved in the attack. Security forces have continued search operations in the area to trace the attackers. The preliminary investigation reveals that at least three terrorists were involved in the attack. Two of them seem to be foreign nationals, said senior police officer. We are reviewing the CCTV footage from the area to get a clear picture. There is a marshy patch in the area and the terrorists escaped using the cover of the trees and bushes. Officials said the attackers approached the checkpoint on foot from the marshy area about 50 metres away. After opening fire with AK-47 rifles, they fled on foot through the same tree line. The attack took place barely 2 km from the heavily guarded Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. The CRPF had earlier stated that the incident occurred around 2:15 pm when the assailants fired at its personnel of the 46th Battalion, deployed as a bridge guard, before fleeing the spot. The three injured CRPF personnel Head Constable Somveer Singh (Madhya Pradesh), Constable RakeshDass (Assam) and Constable Santosh Chandru (West Bengal) - were first rushed to Government Medical College, Anantnag, and later shifted to the Armys 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar. One sustained bullet wounds to the abdomen and spine and underwent surgery; the other two received injuries to the arm and leg. Two of the injured have since been discharged after treatment, while the critically injured jawan continues to receive advanced care. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the hospital to enquire about his condition. GOC 15 Corps, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, visited the spot to review the ongoing operations. Senior officers of the Army, CRPF and J&K Police are supervising the expanded search, guided by human and technical intelligence. A Motorola phone and SIM card were recovered from the site. Sources said investigators are examining the possibility that the attackers belong to a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) module operating in south Kashmir. At least three suspected overground workers (OGWs) of the LeT are being questioned, with agencies suspecting that at least one provided logistical assistance, including reconnaissance and shelter. Police sources also suspect the involvement of local terrorist Lateef Ahmad Bhat of Kulgam, earlier blamed for two attacks in July and described at the time as the only local militant active in the Valley. Cartridges recovered from the site matched those found in the earlier Killam incident. There are concerns within the security establishment that, even as local recruitment has declined, small groups of foreign terrorists assisted by local support networks retain the capacity for targeted attacks. The period preceding winter is considered particularly vulnerable as terrorists hiding in the higher reaches of the PirPanjal typically move to lower elevations before snowfall. Such movements are sometimes accompanied by attacks before they shift to winter hideouts. A senior security officer said the strike appeared part of an attempt by Pakistan-based groups to reactivate networks in Kashmir despite sustained counter-terrorism operations.
Search operations launched across south Kashmir
Srinagar, Nov 12:Security forces on Thursday launched and intensified search operations across south Kashmir in the wake of the terror attack on a CRPF checkpoint near Mir Bazar in Kulgam district, even as the joint cordon-and-search operation at the main site entered its second day with an expanded area under cordon. The primary operation, which was suspended overnight due to darkness, resumed at first light in the Nowpora Akhran area. Additional forces have been deployed, barricades strengthened and vehicle checks intensified along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway and approach roads to seal escape routes. Armoured vehicles and Quick Reaction Teams remain in position as teams comb the forested and rural belts. GOC 15 Corps, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, visited the spot to review the operations and take stock of the ground situation. Senior officers of the Army, CRPF, and J&K Police are supervising the search, which is being guided by human and technical intelligence inputs. Parallel search and area-domination efforts have been activated at multiple locations across south Kashmir as part of a coordinated response. The attack occurred around 2:15 pm on Wednesday when two heavily armed assailants emerged from a dense cluster of trees and opened fire on a CRPF naka of the 46th Battalion, deployed as a bridge guard roughly 1 to 2 km off the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway near Mir Bazar. Security personnel returned fire, but the attackers fled into the adjoining forested area. The injured personnel have been identified as Head Constable Somveer Singh (Madhya Pradesh), Constable RakeshDass (Assam) and Constable Santosh Chandru (West Bengal). Somveer Singh sustained a bullet injury to his arm and RakeshDass to his leg; both were reported stable. Chandru suffered gunshot wounds to the abdomen and spine and was initially critical. Two of the injured personnel have since been discharged from hospital after treatment. The critically injured jawan was airlifted to the 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar for advanced care. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the hospital to enquire about his condition and interacted with the treating doctors. Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Bilal Mohiuddin had earlier visited the injured at GMC Anantnag. This is the third terror-related incident reported in south Kashmir in recent months. Forces have maintained a tight vigil across the region while the expanded searches continue.
Baramulla, Nov 12:The season's first snowfall at the famous tourist resort of Gulmarg has brought cheer to visitors, offering them a glimpse of winter's magic as snow-covered mountain peaks transformed the landscape into a picturesque winter wonderland. Snowfall in the upper reaches of Kashmir overnight on Wednesday and continuing into Thursday brought a noticeable chill to the Valley, while Gulmarg's snow-draped slopes offered visitors a spectacular glimpse of the winter season. At Gulmarg, tourists were seen soaking in the beauty of the snow-covered mountains, with many stepping outdoors to experience the snowfall and capture the moment on their phones. The cold breeze, white mountain slopes and occasional snowflakes made the experience particularly memorable for visitors. Kongdori, a popular tourist destination accessible through the Gulmarg Gondola, received a good amount of snowfall, adding to the excitement among tourists. Visitors were seen enjoying the falling snowflakes, clicking photographs and capturing videos against the backdrop of the snow-clad mountains. For several tourists, witnessing snowfall was an experience they had been eagerly waiting for. Many described themselves as fortunate to have visited Gulmarg at a time when the first flakes of the season were falling, saying the unexpected winter spectacle had made their trip even more special. Seeing snowfall for the first time is a great experience. We feel lucky to be among those who got the opportunity to witness it, said Yogesh, a tourist from West Bengal. A hotlier while talking to Greater Kashmir said that from the last two days, the tourist flow has abruptly increased. He said scores of vehicles full of tourists had thronged the Gulmarg and the fresh snowfall has drawn huge enthusiasm among the tourists. The tourist flux has increased suddenly. The snowfall experience is always tourists first choice, he said. The fresh snowfall has also added to Gulmarg's winter appeal, with the resort expected to attract more visitors as temperatures continue to fall. With the onset of winter and fresh snowfall, Gulmarg traditionally witnesses an increase in tourist arrivals, particularly among visitors keen to experience snow and enjoy the resort's scenic surroundings. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast fairly widespread to widespread rainfall and snowfall across Jammu and Kashmir on November 12 and 13 under the influence of a western disturbance. The weather department has also warned of isolated heavy rainfall on Thursday, while thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph, with gusts up to 60 kmph, are likely at isolated places. The IMD has forecast a significant fall in daytime temperatures, with the mercury expected to drop by 6-8 degrees Celsius during the two days. The precipitation is likely to continue over higher reaches, bringing further snowfall to the mountains.
West Bengal has witnessed a sudden, rapid spike in attacks on Christian home fellowships and churches since the summer of 2026, when the BJP government came to power in the State. Senjuti Sengupta and Shiv Sahay Singh report on the fear of the community that is less than 1% of the population in West Bengal
West Bengal has witnessed a sudden, rapid spike in attacks on Christian home fellowships and churches since the summer of 2026, when the BJP government came to power in the State. Senjuti Sengupta and Shiv Sahay Singh report on the fear of the community that is less than 1% of the population in West Bengal
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The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday said it has attached immovable properties worth Rs 2.78 crore of ex-DCP Kolkata, Santanu Sinha Biswas, and his family members and associates in the case of history-sheeter Biswajit Poddar alias Sona Pappu and others. The attached properties include three flats located in Kolkata and land at Kandi in West Bengal's Murshidabad as Proceeds of Crime under PMLA 2002. The properties were attached under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. ED's Kolkata Zonal Office-II provisionally attached immovable properties of Santanu, his family members and associates in the case. ED investigation was initiated based on multiple FIRs registered by West Bengal Police against Sona Pappu and others involving complaints of murder, extortion and land-grabbing. Earlier, ED had conducted searches at multiple premises on April 1, April 19, April 26 and May 22 in Kolkata and nearby places, including the residential premises of Santanu, Jay S...
Bengal Police launch probe into Gaighata encounter incident
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) The West Bengal Police's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) will investigate the encounter of rape and murder accused Prahlad Das in Gaighata of North 24 Parganas district, a government official said on Thursday. A CID delegation led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)-rank officer inspected the crime scene earlier in the day. According to the government official, the investigators are trying to understand where the shooting took place and how the accused tried to escape. On October 25, the body of a 17-year-old girl was recovered in Gaighata. On October 24, the victim had gone to a jalsa near her home where her friends and family members were also present. The jalsa went on until late at night. Her family claimed that the girl received a call at around 11:30 p.m. on October 24. After receiving the call, she left the event following which she went missing. The girl's naked and injured body was recovered the next morning. The victim's family claimed that she was raped and murdered. After the initial investigation, the police arrested Prahlad Das, a distant relative of the girl, on the day the body was recovered. The police suspected that the youth had offered the girl physical intimacy. When the girl did not agree, he hit her on the head with a heavy object. When the girl lost consciousness, the accused tortured her. The youth fled the area leaving the girl in a bloody state. Police sources claimed that there were scuffles, nail scratches, etc. on her body. Police reconstructed the incident with the accused in the middle of the night. Police sources claimed that the accused attacked the policemen while returning after the reconstruction phase of the incident on the night of October 27. At one point, Prahlad snatched the policeman's revolver and ran away. Police claimed that he fired three rounds in which a policeman was injured. However, it is not known whether the policeman was shot or not. However, the police vehicle in which the accused was taken has a bullet mark. The source claimed that the police also fired four rounds in self-defence. Prahlad died in retaliatory fire by the police. This time, the CID has launched an investigation into the incident.
ED attaches assets worth Rs 2.78 cr belonging to ex-Kolkata Police DCP in Sona Pappu case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Kolkata Zonal Office has provisionally attached immovable properties worth Rs 2.78 crore belonging to former Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Santanu Sinha Biswas, his family members, and his associates in connection with the Sona Pappu money laundering case. In a statement issued on Thursday, the central agency confirmed that the assets, comprising three flats in Kolkata and parcels of land at Kandi in Murshidabad district, were attached as proceeds of crime under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The ED initiated its investigation based on multiple FIRs registered by the West Bengal Police against alleged criminal Biswajit Podder, alias Sona Pappu, and his associates involving charges of murder, extortion, and land-grabbing. Earlier in the probe, ED sleuths conducted coordinated raids across Kolkata and adjoining areas, searching the residences of Biswas, Jay S. Kamdar, and Podder. Those searches resulted in the seizure of Rs 1.64 crore in cash, gold jewellery, a Toyota Fortuner car, an unlicensed revolver, and various incriminating documents and digital devices. Following the raids, the agency arrested all three accused, who are currently remanded in judicial custody. According to the agency's findings, the proceeds of crime were generated through extortion, illegal real estate grabbing, and unauthorised construction carried out via entities controlled by Podder, Kamdar, and their associates. Investigators revealed that Biswas, who previously served as the Officer-in-Charge of Kalighat Police Station before his elevation as DCP, developed a close nexus with Kamdar during his stint at Kalighat and actively facilitated his illicit operations. Through this association, Kamdar allegedly wielded significant clout within the police establishment. The ED statement further noted that Biswas directly and indirectly acquired, concealed, and possessed proceeds of crime amounting to at least Rs 2.89 crore.
Calcutta HC expresses anguish over Abhishek Banerjee's derogatory remarks against judiciary
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) A single-judge vacation bench of the Calcutta High Court on Thursday expressed anguish over some reported derogatory comments made by the Trinamool Congress General Secretary and the party's Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee accusing a section of the Judiciary as iased. The occasion was the final hearing on a petition by Abhishek Banerjee, also the nephew of the former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, seeking restoration of his -Plus security. The final hearing was taking place at the single-judge vacation bench of Justice Krishna Rao. During the hearing in the matter, the state government Counsel and the state's Additional Advocate General, Billawdal Bhattacharya, drew the attention of the court to a recent social media message made by the Diamond Harbour MP accusing the Kolkata Police of maintaining constant surveillance around his residence and snooping on him. Bhattacharya claimed that in the social media message, Abhishek Banerjee made some remarks that directly challenged the country's judicial system and the dignity of the courts, and therefore he should be booked under contempt of court charges. I am submitting an interview of the plaintiff to the court. That interview amounts to contempt of court. He has insulted the judges, even mentioned their names. The court cannot be fooled like this. This is contempt of court. Criminal action should be taken against him (Abhishek Banerjee), the Additional Advocate General said. Thereafter, Abhishek Banerjee's Counsel said that his clients' comments were in the context of certain developments where petitions filed by him were pending before the the court for several months. Thereafter, Justice Rao expressed his displeasure after this comment. In very strict language, Justice Rao ordered Abhishek Banerjee's lawyer to submit a complete list of which judges are with the Bharatiya Janata Party and which are with the Trinamool Congress. Ask your client (Abhishek Banerjee) which judges are with the BJP and which are not! He thinks he is very intelligent. Ask him to give a list; I will look into it, Justice Rao said.
Calcutta HC reserves order on Abhishek Banerjee's plea for restoration of 'Z Plus' security
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) The hearing on the petition from Trinamool Congress General Secretary and the party's Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member, Abhishek Banerjee, seeking restoration of his -Plus security was completed at a single-judge vacation bench of the Calcutta High Court on Thursday. However, the single-judge vacation bench of Justice Krishna Rao had kept the judgement on reserve. Abhishek, also the nephew of the former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, had been enjoying the Plus security granted to him by the previous Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal led by his aunt since he became the Lok Sabha MP from Diamond Harbour for the first time in 2014. However, after the new Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government came to power in the state, Abhishek Banerjee's -Plus security was withdrawn and he was granted the security entitled to him as a Lok Sabha member as per protocol. Recently, the Diamond Harbour MP approached the Calcutta High Court with the plea for restoration of his -Plus security apprehended lie threats considering that already some assassination attempts had been made on him in the recent past. The hearing in the matter was completed on Thursday, and Justice Krishna Rao had reserved his judgment in the matter. During the hearing on Thursday, Justice Rao raised questions about the state administration's role in the state's security review process and the subsequent allegations of multiple attacks. The state government told the court that the decision on the category of security to be granted to anyone was their prerogative and it was not binding on the administration to explain its decisions in the matter. Thereafter, Justice Rao said that while the court will not direct which category of security should be granted to whom, since the plaintiff claimed that there was an attack on him and his security requirements were not reviewed, the court could seek explanations in the matter. Abhishek Banerjee's Counsel then said that till the time the security requirements of his client were not reviewed, till that time -Plus security should be granted to him.
West Bengal Chief Minister Accuses Opposition of Undermining Hindu Culture
CM Suvendu Adhikari criticizes previous governments for damaging Hindu traditions and vows to isolate political opponents. West Bengal Chief Minister Accuses Opposition of Undermining Hindu Culture
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the appointment of coordinators within municipal wards starting December 1. He criticised opposition parties for obstructing the electoral process due to fear of defeat and highlighted long-standing civic service deprivations. Adhikari pledged to approach the Supreme Court regarding delays in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation elections. Municipal officials are unable to fully substitute elected representatives, according to the Chief Minister.
Piyush Goyal to inaugurate 45th India International Trade Fair
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal is set to inaugurate the 45th India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2026, organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), on Friday at Bharat Mandapam here, an official statement said on Thursday. The event from November 14-27 will bring together more than 3,500 exhibitors from India and abroad across 17 halls, covering over 1,00,000 square metres of exhibition space. The first five days, from November 14-18, will be Business Days reserved for B2B visitors, and the Fair will open to the general public from November 19-27. It will witness participation from 32 states and Union Territories and 51 Central Ministries, Government Departments, PSUs and Public Sector Banks. Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh are the Partner States, while Assam, Delhi, Jharkhand and West Bengal are the Focus States. The participating States and UTs will showcase their regional products, local industries, traditional crafts, culture, tourism potential and development initiatives. International participation will include 11 countries, with pavilions featuring exhibitors from Thailand, Iran, Ghana, Nepal, Afghanistan, the UAE, Turkey, China, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, providing opportunities for international business engagement and trade linkages, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Jawed Ashraf, Chairman, India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), said that IITF 2026 will celebrate India's progress, diversity and heritage, with a special focus on youth through around 600 startups at the Hall of Inspiration and district-level crafts, cuisine and culture at the ODOP Pavilion. IITF 2026 will introduce new experiences for businesses and visitors alike. The Hall of Inspiration in Hall 14 will showcase around 600 Indian start-ups across deep-tech, agri-tech, drones, space, healthcare and edtech, providing young enterprises with visibility and opportunities to connect with wider markets. The One District One Product (ODOP) Pavilion will feature participation from 21 States and showcase signature crafts, cuisine, culture and products from districts across the country, highlighting local enterprise, traditional skills and the artisans behind them, the statement said. Beyond its role as a major trade exhibition, IITF continues to strengthen market access for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), startups and small traders by providing opportunities to showcase products, connect with potential buyers and explore new markets.
'Bulldozers cannot silence me': Abhishek Banerjee defiant after demolition outside residence
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) Mamata-Trinamool Congress General Secretary and Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee on Thursday vowed to continue his political fight against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led West Bengal government, declaring that no bulldozer could silence him, even as the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) demolished three structures allegedly encroaching on footpaths outside his residence in Kolkata's Kalighat. No number of bulldozers can silence my voice or break my resolve. I will continue my fight against the Bangla Birodhis. I will neither retreat nor budge an inch until my last breath, he said in a social media post, shortly after the demolition drive was completed. The operation assisted by the Kolkata Police began on Thursday morning, with a makeshift bamboo structure outside the residence being razed first. The structure had reportedly been used as a seating arrangement for security personnel when Abhishek Banerjee enjoyed Z-plus security cover provided by the state government during the previous Trinamool Congress government led by his aunt and former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. An iron gate outside the residence, which also allegedly encroached on the footpath, was subsequently demolished. A Trinamool Congress Martyrs' Memorial, constructed with concrete and iron beams, was also razed as part of the operation. All three structures were brought down using a bulldozer. The removal of the bamboo shed had initially been undertaken by Trinamool workers on Wednesday evening. However, the exercise remained incomplete until KMC personnel, accompanied by police officers and a bulldozer, arrived at the spot on Thursday morning and completed the demolition. The temporary shed had become a subject of controversy over the past few days. Tensions had flared in Kalighat during the intervening night of November 6 and 7, when a large gathering assembled outside Abhishek Banerjee's residence for his birthday celebrations. Several people were seen taking shelter under the temporary structure. The presence of the shed subsequently drew objections from local residents, who reportedly complained that the construction was obstructing pedestrian movement on the footpath. The demolition drive also came a day after Abhishek Banerjee accused the Kolkata Police of keeping his residence under constant surveillance and snooping on him. In a social media post on Wednesday, the Mamata-Trinamool Congress leader had questioned the police surveillance arrangements around his residence. Soon after this social media post, party workers began dismantling the bamboo structure. The KMC-led operation on Thursday, however, extended beyond the shed to include the iron gate and the party's memorial. Abhishek Banerjee's remarks following the demolition indicated that he viewed the action as part of the continuing political confrontation with the BJP government in the state.
