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Politics, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee Calls for Unity Amidst Leadership Disputes in Ghatal District

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 2, 2025, Kolkata :  Abhishek Banerjee, the All India General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), delivered a stern message of unity and cooperation to the leadership of the Ghatal organizational district of West Midnapore during a meeting in Kolkata on Monday. The meeting, held at Camac Street, came in the wake of internal disputes within the district leadership, particularly over the changes at the block level.

Present at the meeting were senior state ministers, including Manas Bhuiyan, Shiuli Saha, former minister Humayun Kabir, and Ajit Maiti, among other prominent leaders of the Ghatal district’s branch organizations. Abhishek Banerjee emphasized the importance of working cohesively to strengthen the party, particularly as leadership adjustments and changes at the block level are inevitable.

The main point of contention in the district is the ongoing dispute between key leaders, specifically Radhakant Maiti, the current chairperson of Ghatal, and Humayun Kabir, the current MLA of Debra. The tension between the two stems from their differing approaches to leadership at the block level. Radhakant, who was previously the MLA of Debra, has clashed with Humayun, and their relationship has been described as strained. The leaders’ disagreements have become particularly evident in the ongoing changes to the leadership in the blocks of Debra, Pingla, and Keshpur.

Moreover, Shiuli Saha, another influential leader from the district, has faced opposition from a section of the district over leadership changes in Keshpur. These internal conflicts have created a rift within the Ghatal organizational district, hindering the party’s unity and progress in the region.

According to several leaders present at the meeting, Abhishek Banerjee addressed these concerns directly. He acknowledged the differing proposals from the district’s leadership, including suggestions from Radhakant, Shiuli, Humayun, and Ajit. However, he made it clear that while these proposals would be considered, the final decision regarding leadership changes and organizational matters would rest with party leader Mamata Banerjee.

Abhishek’s call for unity was not just a directive but a firm reminder that the TMC must move forward together. “In the coming days, everyone, including Mamata Banerjee, will have to accept the necessary changes made at the block level. The party’s future depends on collective efforts and working together,” Abhishek asserted during the meeting.

The tensions within the Ghatal district are part of broader discussions around party unity and leadership restructuring within the TMC. With the party facing challenges in maintaining cohesion, Abhishek’s message was seen as a clear indication that internal conflicts must be resolved swiftly and with the party’s broader goals in mind.

As the party moves forward, the hope is that these internal disputes will be resolved and the leadership can unite to focus on the larger objective of strengthening the Trinamool Congress in West Bengal. 

Politics, West Bengal

Suvendu Adhikari Suspended Amid Heated Assembly Clash Over Army Incident on Mayor Road

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Political Turmoil Erupts in West Bengal Assembly Over Army Incident on Mayor Road

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 2, 2025, Kolkata :  The West Bengal Assembly witnessed intense chaos and heated exchanges on Tuesday, following a controversial incident on Mayor Road involving the Indian Army. The political fallout from this incident sparked protests, suspensions, and fiery debates, leading to an escalating confrontation between the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

On Monday, the Indian Army reportedly dismantled a stage erected by the TMC for a Bengali language movement on Mayor Road, triggering widespread protests from the ruling party. The TMC strongly condemned the Army’s actions, accusing the BJP of orchestrating the event. TMC Supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee immediately visited the site, claiming that the BJP had used the Army to dismantle the stage and suppress the movement. She later described the incident as a form of ‘assault on the Bengali language.’

In the aftermath, the TMC organized protest meetings in various districts across the state on Tuesday, and the issue was brought to the floor of the Assembly. Tensions escalated when Suvendu Adhikari, the leader of the opposition, raised slogans in support of the Indian Army, further aggravating the situation. The Assembly witnessed an uproar as members of the ruling party and opposition clashed over the incident, with TMC lawmakers expressing anger at the BJP’s stance.

Suvendu’s action in favor of the Indian Army led to his suspension from the Assembly. The Speaker of the House, Biman Banerjee, was forced to call for marshals to remove him from the session after he continued chanting slogans despite repeated warnings to cease. The suspension of the opposition leader resulted in a walkout by BJP legislators, who left the Assembly in protest.

Speaking to the media outside the Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari strongly criticized his suspension, asserting, “I have been suspended again. I was suspended for speaking in favor of the Army. I feel proud of the Indian Army.” He further claimed that his suspension was unlawful and that he was unjustly removed from the Assembly for raising his voice in support of the nation’s armed forces.

As the Assembly debate continued, tensions reached new heights with inflammatory comments from both sides. State Minister Bratya Basu described the Army’s actions on Mayor Road as reminiscent of the violence on March 25, 1971, during the Bangladesh Liberation War, comparing the incident to the Pakistani Army’s atrocities. This remark, in particular, sparked further outrage among opposition members, who accused the TMC of politicizing the issue for electoral gain.

In response, Minister Firhad Hakim called the BJP an “anti-Bengali” party, fueling the ongoing war of words between the two parties. BJP lawmakers, in turn, vociferously defended the actions of the Army, and Suvendu continued to raise slogans like “Indian Army Zindabad” (Long Live the Indian Army), solidifying his position as a staunch supporter of the military.

After the session, BJP leaders expressed outrage at what they described as an “undemocratic” suspension, accusing the ruling party of attempting to stifle their voices. Suvendu, in particular, remained defiant, reiterating his pride in the Army and his firm belief that the incident on Mayor Road needed to be thoroughly investigated.

The political controversy shows no signs of abating, with both sides dug in and accusations flying in all directions. With Assembly sessions in turmoil and protests breaking out across the state, the political standoff between the TMC and BJP is set to dominate West Bengal’s political landscape for the foreseeable future.

Politics, West Bengal

The Political Future of Dilip Ghosh in West Bengal BJP: A Comeback in the Works?

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Aug 31, 2025, Kolkata : Once a towering figure in West Bengal’s BJP leadership, Dilip Ghosh now finds himself grappling with factional conflicts that have diminished his relevance in the state’s political landscape. Having held multiple significant posts within the party, his current position seems uncertain, leaving many to wonder whether he will make a return to the state committee or be given a new responsibility within the BJP’s organizational structure.

Although the state BJP leadership, including figures like State President Shamik Bhattacharya, share a consensus on Ghosh’s value, it is ultimately the central leadership in Delhi that will determine his future role. The ongoing question in political circles is whether Delhi will re-appoint the former state president to the state committee or assign him to another crucial post.

In a recent meeting at the state BJP office in Salt Lake, Ghosh, in his signature candid style, declared that despite lacking an official party position and facing the impending end of his tenure as MP in 2024, he still maintains his relevance in Bengal’s political arena. “I still have a price in the market,” Ghosh remarked, signaling that he has not been sidelined completely, despite his diminishing visibility. His consistent assertion that he has not lost his relevance in the state speaks volumes about his self-assuredness and potential political maneuvering.

However, the critical question remains: Is Dilip Ghosh about to receive a new political responsibility? Will the party grant him a place back in the central or state committee? Responding to this uncertainty in the past, Ghosh stated, “Let’s see how the party wants. I have previously contested in the assembly and Lok Sabha, and I will do whatever is needed for the party’s needs.” His willingness to adapt to the party’s demands suggests that Ghosh is keeping his options open, awaiting a potential political reshuffle.

The political dynamics within the state BJP have certainly shifted since Shamik Bhattacharya assumed the role of state president. Bhattacharya’s leadership has elevated the importance of veteran party members, and one of his clear objectives is to integrate long-serving workers back into the party’s fold. Given this context, it is highly possible that Ghosh, as a prominent leader with years of experience, could be reintroduced into the political fold.

As one of the party’s strongest and most influential leaders in Bengal, Dilip Ghosh’s political trajectory is far from over. With the next assembly elections on the horizon, many are watching closely to see whether Ghosh will once again be at the forefront of West Bengal BJP’s political strategy. The coming months will likely reveal whether Ghosh’s political influence will be revived or if he will continue to play a more diminished role in state politics.

Politics, West Bengal

BJP’s Rakesh Singh Faces Isolation After Attack on Congress Office; Shuvendu and Shamik Bhattacharya Distance Themselves

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Aug 31, 2025, Kolkata :  A fresh political rift has emerged within the West Bengal BJP as North Kolkata leader Rakesh Singh finds himself at odds with key party figures, including Opposition Leader Shuvendu Adhikari, following his controversial actions at the Pradesh Congress office. Once closely aligned with Adhikari, Singh’s relationship with the prominent BJP leader began to sour over the weekend, leading many to speculate on the underlying reasons behind the sudden distance.

The controversy erupted on Friday when Rakesh Singh and his supporters were seen engaging in a violent attack on the Pradesh Congress office, setting fire to photographs of Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, and burning the party’s flags. The event has sparked widespread backlash, with critics accusing Singh of crossing a line that could damage the BJP’s public image. However, the most significant fallout appears to be within the party itself.

As the incident gained attention, the state BJP, under pressure from various quarters, distanced itself from Singh. State President Shamik Bhattacharya, who had been under political pressure, condemned the actions, making it clear that the BJP does not support the burning of any political party’s flag. “This was not an approved program of the party,” Bhattacharya asserted, signaling his firm stance against the attack.

Meanwhile, Shuvendu Adhikari, who has often been seen as a guiding force for Rakesh Singh within the BJP, also distanced himself from the controversy. In his response, Adhikari confirmed that Singh is a BJP member but made it clear that the party does not condone his actions. “I support what our state president Shamik Bhattacharya has said about this incident. This was not an approved program of the party,” Adhikari stated, further signaling his discomfort with Singh’s actions.

The growing tension between Rakesh Singh and key BJP leaders has underscored the factional struggles within the state unit of the party. Singh’s close ties to Shuvendu Adhikari have long been noted in political circles, and his sudden isolation raises questions about internal power dynamics within the Bengal BJP. The lack of support from both Adhikari and Bhattacharya highlights the deepening divide among party leaders, especially as the state prepares for the upcoming elections.

Rakesh Singh, who was once seen as an influential figure in the party, now faces a precarious position. His political future seems uncertain as he finds himself increasingly isolated, with his recent actions seemingly out of step with the party’s official stance. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Singh will be able to mend his relationship with the party leadership or if this marks the beginning of his political decline within the BJP.

West Bengal

Modern Madan Kumar Mehta Memorial Library Inaugurated at Shree Jain Vidyalaya, Kolkata

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Aug 31, 2025, Kolkata :   In a significant move to promote educational excellence and modern learning resources, the Madan Kumar Mehta Memorial Library was inaugurated at Shree Jain Vidyalaya in Kolkata. The library aims to serve as an intellectual hub for students and future generations, enhancing their academic journey in the digital age.

The modernized library, a reflection of cutting-edge infrastructure and educational innovation, was established under the guidance of Sudhir Kumar Mehta, a prominent alumnus of the school and a senior advocate at the Calcutta High Court. This initiative was undertaken in honor of his late father, Madan Kumar Mehta, a founding member of Shree Jain Vidyalaya, whose legacy continues to inspire the institution.

The official inauguration ceremony took place on Sunday, with Justice (Retd.) Ashok Kumar Ganguly, former Judge of the Supreme Court and former Chairman of the West Bengal Human Rights Commission, as the chief guest. Also present at the event were Shanta Kumari Mehta, wife of the late Madan Kumar Mehta, distinguished physician Dr. Amit Kumar Roy, and prominent school leaders including Vinod Kankaria and Sardar Mal Kankaria, as well as Principal Sanjay Kumar Pandey and Secretary Manoj Kumar Bothra.

In his inaugural address, Justice Ganguly underscored the crucial role of education in societal progress, stating, “Without education, the advancement of society is not possible. This initiative will guide the next generation on the right path.”

Sudhir Kumar Mehta shared his vision for the new library, emphasizing its role as a center for innovation and research. Equipped with state-of-the-art digital learning facilities, the library offers students access to online resources, e-journals, and academic databases. This transformation will significantly aid students in preparing for higher education, competitive exams, and research, providing them with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

The establishment of this library represents more than just the development of physical infrastructure—it is a lasting contribution to knowledge and intellectual growth. By offering access to a wide range of educational tools and fostering a culture of innovation, the Madan Kumar Mehta Memorial Library is poised to open new avenues of learning, creativity, and research for the students of Shree Jain Vidyalaya.

Regional

Strained Ties at Phulbari Border: A Glimpse into the Evolving India-Bangladesh Relations

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Aug 30 2025, Kolkata :  Every Saturday, the Phulbari border between India and Bangladesh witnesses a poignant display of friendship and cooperation between the Border Security Force (BSF) of India and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). At the Zero Point of the border, the two countries’ national flags are hoisted in a ceremony that symbolizes the once-strong bond between the two nations. This border, once bustling with trade and commercial exchanges, now stands as a reminder of the shifts in geopolitical and economic ties.

Historically, goods from India were exported to Bangladesh in large quantities, driving commerce and benefiting both nations. However, the trade dynamics have undergone a significant transformation. With the halting of exports, long rows of trucks laden with goods stand abandoned, slowly corroding under the monsoon rains, unable to complete their journey across the border. This stagnation in trade has led to rising prices of Bangladeshi goods, further straining the economic situation. Ordinary workers, particularly those in lower-income groups, are feeling the brunt of these escalating costs, which seem to drain the lifeblood of their hard work.

In the past, Bangladesh enjoyed considerable advantages from its robust relationship with India, but that scenario has changed. The once warm and friendly ties between the two nations are now turning into a period of deprivation and uncertainty. The warmth that once characterized the India-Bangladesh relationship appears to be waning, with experts noting that the diplomatic temperature is slowly sinking.

Yet, despite the cooling of political ties, the joint activities of the BSF and BGB remain a symbol of the enduring cooperation between the two forces. Even amid tense periods and sporadic conflicts, these forces continue to meet regularly, engage in friendly gestures like exchanging sweets, and participate in shared ceremonial events.

Looking forward, a section of experts questions where this relationship will stand in the future. The once-flourishing trade and goodwill between India and Bangladesh seem to be under threat, leaving many to ponder the long-term impact on both nations’ economies and their diplomatic relations.

The Phulbari Integrated Check Post (ICP), a significant crossing point for trade and various activities, is now a focal point for understanding this evolving relationship. While the BSF and BGB work diligently to maintain security, the changing dynamics of India-Bangladesh relations remain an area of concern for many, who wonder what the future holds for this once vibrant partnership.

As the landscape continues to shift, it remains to be seen whether the flags raised at the Phulbari border will once again symbolize the strength and solidarity they once did or if they will stand as a testament to what has been lost.

Politics, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee Challenges BJP, Declares Unmatched Student Support at TMCP Foundation Day Rally

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Aug 29 2025, Kolkata :  Trinamool Congress MP and senior leader Abhishek Banerjee delivered a bold and confrontational speech at the TMCP Foundation Day rally held at Mayo Road, Kolkata, today, calling out the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and questioning central policy decisions, while affirming Trinamool’s rising youth support.

Amid a record-breaking turnout, Abhishek described the crowd as “historic,” asserting that the TMCP had shattered all previous attendance records. “The kind of passion and unity we saw today proves that the BJP doesn’t stand a chance—not even against TMCP, let alone against our senior leaders or block presidents,” he said.

Taking a direct dig at a BJP rally held earlier this month at the same venue, he remarked, “Whether it was a rally or a circus on August 11, it was hard to differentiate.” His comments drew loud cheers from students gathered at the site.

Reinforcing Trinamool’s criticism of the Centre, Abhishek revisited the pending RG case and asked why the Aparajita Bill still hasn’t been passed. “Why is this delay happening? Who is blocking justice? These questions must be answered,” he demanded from the stage, suggesting systemic delays and discrimination.

Abhishek also lauded the Trinamool government for settling pending dues of 69 lakh job card holders in the state, calling it a significant milestone that reflects the state’s commitment to the underprivileged and working class. “If we can fight and win for these 69 lakh, we can fight for the 10 crore Bengalis being insulted every day,” he asserted.

In a strong cultural and political rebuttal to recurring narratives targeting Bengalis, he criticized those who label people from the state as “Bangladeshis” or question the legitimacy of the Bengali language. “We will answer those who dare to say that Bengali is not a language,” he thundered, rallying students to rise against such divisive propaganda.

The TMCP rally became a launching pad for Abhishek Banerjee to energize the party’s youth base while issuing strong warnings to political rivals. With growing prominence in the party’s leadership structure, his speech reflected a fusion of assertive politics, generational change, and continuity in the party’s core message.

Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Slams BJP, Alleges Electoral Bias, Reaffirms Bengal’s Progress at TMCP Rally

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Aug 29 2025, Kolkata : At the massive Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) Foundation Day rally held today at Mayo Road, West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress Chairperson Mamata Banerjee delivered a fiery and emotional speech, touching upon her personal political struggles, institutional challenges, and Bengal’s development milestones.

Addressing a sea of supporters, Mamata Banerjee launched a direct attack on the Election Commission, accusing it of partisan behaviour. She alleged that forces she called “high-voltage viruses” were “violently withholding funds” and working in collaboration with what she termed “SIR” to strip citizens of their voting rights. “It is unfortunate that the Election Commission is playing someone’s lollipop,” she said, criticising what she sees as politically motivated targeting of migrant workers and voters.

Mamata Banerjee drew a sharp contrast between her government’s treatment of migrant labourers and that of others. “They call 22 lakh migrant workers names and torture them. But here in Bengal, we support 1.5 crore migrant workers and provide them with dignity and jobs,” she asserted, adding that under her leadership, the state had created employment for 2 crore individuals.

Revisiting her early political activism, Banerjee shared a chilling account of a near-death experience during a college election in Kolkata. She recalled how Communist Party goons allegedly abducted two boys during her speech at Ashutosh College. “I went to drink water and saw them taking the boys away. I grabbed one by the collar, but they chased me with a pipe gun,” she recounted. She described how local shopkeepers from a nearby restaurant, Srihari Mishtanna Bhandar, sheltered her. “Had they not hidden me, I wouldn’t have survived that day,” she said, visibly emotional.

Amid the political commentary, Banerjee also underscored the strides made by her administration in education. “We have spent ₹69,000 crore on building Bengal’s educational infrastructure. Kanyashree has won the highest international awards,” she stated, proudly claiming that her government’s initiatives under the leadership of Subrata Bakshi have transformed the state’s educational landscape.

She concluded by reaffirming her deep-rooted connection with the people of Bengal, saying, “My Bengali land is the best of all states. I have travelled the world, but no one knows this country better than I do.”

The rally, marking TMCP’s foundation day, served as more than just a student gathering — it became a platform for Mamata Banerjee to reassert her leadership, defend the values of her government, and issue a sharp critique of her political opponents and federal institutions.

Crime

27-Year-Old Youth Loses Life in Bike-Tractor Collision on Burdwan-Arambagh Highway

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Aug 28 2025, Kolkata :  A tragic road accident claimed the life of a 27-year-old man on Thursday morning near Radha Bazar, along the Burdwan–Arambagh State Highway (No. 7), under Khandaghosh Police Station in East Burdwan district.

The deceased has been identified as Tapan Mondal, a resident of Joynagar in South 24 Parganas, who worked as a lorry driver. According to eyewitness accounts, the accident occurred at approximately 9 a.m.

Sources revealed that a lorry carrying paddy was traveling from Medinipur to Badulia. At a junction in East Burdwan, driver Tapan Mondal alighted from the vehicle and proceeded toward Badulia on a motorbike belonging to the lorry driver. While on his way near Badulia, his motorcycle collided with the large front wheel of a brick-laden tractor that was en route to Sehara Bazar from Radha Bazar.

The impact was severe, and Tapan Mondal sustained fatal head injuries, resulting in his death at the scene. Eyewitnesses suggested that the collision occurred due to negligence on the part of the tractor driver.

Following the incident, personnel from the Seharabazar police outpost, Khandaghosh Police Station, and the traffic department rushed to the location. Authorities confirmed that the tractor involved in the crash has been seized. However, the driver fled the scene and remains untraceable.

Police have launched an investigation into the accident and efforts are underway to locate the absconding tractor driver.

Politics, West Bengal

TMC Aims for a Clean Sweep in South Dinajpur: Abhishek Banerjee’s Push to Reclaim BJP Stronghold in North Bengal

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | Kolkata | August 27, 2025  : As the 2026 elections loom, North Bengal has emerged as a major battleground between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In what is shaping up to be a high-stakes contest, TMC has intensified its focus on South Dinajpur — a district seen as both symbolically and strategically crucial due to its association with BJP leader and Union Minister of State, Sukanta Majumdar.

Sources indicate that Abhishek Banerjee, TMC’s All India General Secretary, has issued a clear and uncompromising directive to the district leadership: win all six assembly seats in South Dinajpur in the upcoming elections. The message, delivered during a recent organisational review, is being interpreted as both a challenge to BJP dominance in North Bengal and a matter of prestige for the ruling party.

Trinamool’s strategy appears to involve a detailed analysis of past electoral setbacks. Abhishek has reportedly ordered a constituency-wise review to identify the reasons behind previous losses, assess the impact of internal factionalism, and evaluate the performance of district leaders. The instruction is to pinpoint not just where the party fell short, but also why and who contributed to those outcomes.

Despite South Dinajpur being considered a relatively small district, its political significance is far greater. Known as Sukanta Majumdar’s home turf, the area holds symbolic weight for the BJP. The TMC’s decision to go all in on the district underscores its desire to reclaim ground and demonstrate strength in what has historically been a BJP-leaning region within North Bengal.

West Bengal

Vice-Chancellor of Gour Banga University Removed Over Corruption Allegations and Dereliction of Duty

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | August 27, 2025 | Kolkata : West Bengal Governor Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose, in his capacity as Chancellor of state-run universities, removed Professor Pabitra Chattopadhyay from the post of Vice-Chancellor of the University of Gour Banga with immediate effect on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. The removal followed serious allegations of corruption and dereliction of duty, confirmed officials from Raj Bhavan.

This decisive action was triggered days after the university’s Inspector of Colleges accused Professor Chattopadhyay of demanding ₹3 lakh allegedly to cover legal expenses — a claim that has since become the subject of proceedings at the Calcutta High Court. Despite denying the allegations, Chattopadhyay’s authority to exercise the powers and responsibilities of Vice-Chancellor was revoked immediately by the Governor, according to a statement released by Raj Bhavan.

The matter escalated when the University’s convocation, scheduled for August 25, 2025, was cancelled following instructions from the State Education Department. However, Governor Bose insisted that the event proceed as planned, reiterating the autonomy of the university and the limitations of the government’s authority in academic affairs. Professor Chattopadhyay’s failure to carry out the convocation, in defiance of this directive, was deemed a serious act of negligence and is believed to have hastened his removal.

Chattopadhyay, a professor of chemistry, had been serving as the interim Vice-Chancellor since April 2024, after being selected from a list of state nominees. His short tenure, however, was mired in controversy, with the latest charges reinforcing a long-standing pattern of allegations directed at the Gour Banga University administration.

Over the years, the university has faced repeated claims of financial misconduct, including reports of illegal expenditure during its first convocation in 2016, when crores of rupees were allegedly spent without proper accounting. Since then, further irregularities have come to light involving untracked development funds under the higher education campaign. Complaints have also included the theft of documents and answer sheets, as well as broader institutional mismanagement.

Several university officials and professors have been suspended in the past due to their involvement in these scandals, contributing to the mounting frustration of the Chancellor. Wednesday’s statement from the Governor’s office conveyed his dissatisfaction with the deteriorating standards and confirmed that the removal of Chattopadhyay was a necessary step to restore integrity within the state’s academic system.

Political responses were swift. The BJP has strongly criticised the Vice-Chancellor and the alleged culture of corruption at Gour Banga University. Amid mounting pressure, the State Higher Education Department had previously dispatched four separate delegations to investigate the institution. Ironically, Professor Chattopadhyay had also been part of one such delegation — despite facing allegations himself.

Gour Banga University, located in Malda and established approximately 15 years ago, serves as the academic hub for 25 colleges in Malda and two in Dinajpur, catering to thousands of undergraduate and postgraduate students. The prolonged suspension of its convocation ceremonies since 2017 is widely attributed to unresolved tensions between the Governor’s office and the State government — tensions that have resurfaced sharply in this latest development.

With Professor Chattopadhyay’s dismissal, the Raj Bhavan has emphasized the need to uphold transparency and accountability within West Bengal’s higher education system. The move underscores the Governor’s determination to insulate academic institutions from administrative irregularities and political interference.

The future of Gour Banga University now hangs in the balance, as both administrative clarity and public trust will need to be restored through the appointment of a new Vice-Chancellor committed to institutional reform and academic integrity.

West Bengal

Kolkata Resumes Contract-Tenant Certificate Distribution After 11-Year Gap

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, August 26, 2025 : After a hiatus of more than a decade, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has resumed the process of distributing contract-tenant certificates, a move that promises relief to thousands of residents who had been waiting for official recognition of their tenancy rights and a much-needed boost to the civic body’s revenue.

The issuance of these certificates had been halted in November 2014, leaving thousands of applicants in limbo despite repeated submissions over the years. Municipal officials confirmed that the long-pending process has been revived only after the state cabinet granted approval for preparing a fresh list of beneficiaries. Acting on the special instructions of Mayor Firhad Hakim, the distribution of application forms began on June 2, 2025, covering residents across wards 1 to 100 of the city.

According to officials, the certificates are being handed over to eligible applicants following the verification of prescribed forms and necessary documents. Mayor Hakim has directed that the entire exercise be completed within six months. A senior official explained that in administrative terminology the issuance of this certificate is referred to as a “return.” Until now, residents living on contract land had no official recognition of their rights. With the issuance of these certificates, applicants will be able to pay land rent directly to the government, facilitating smoother property mutation and assessment. They will also gain the legal authority to demolish old structures and construct new ones if required.

This long-awaited initiative is expected to benefit citizens while simultaneously strengthening municipal revenue. Authorities anticipate a substantial rise in income through land rent, mutation charges, and property assessment fees once the process is completed. For residents, the move provides long-sought clarity and legal protection. One applicant expressed relief, saying, “I was facing problems in getting various services for so long. Now I have got legal recognition. This will not cause any more problems in the future.”

Civic officials emphasized that the resumption of this process after an 11-year pause is not just a bureaucratic development but also a step toward improving the city’s financial structure. They believe that the contract-tenant certificate will protect citizens’ rights, regularize property-related transactions, and bring greater order to Kolkata’s municipal governance system.

The return of this long-stalled mechanism has therefore brought both administrative relief and a renewed sense of security to many residents, marking a significant step in addressing urban tenancy challenges in the city.

West Bengal

Technical Glitch on KMC Website Sparks Laughter and Confusion Over Trade License Application

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | Kolkata | August 25, 2025: A curious error on the official website of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has triggered widespread amusement and debate in the city’s business community. While applying online for a trade license, several applicants were startled to find an unusual document requirement listed in the portal: “Vaccination Certificate (For Dog Reg).”

The unexpected appearance of a dog’s vaccination certificate in a process meant for business licensing raised immediate questions. Citizens humorously wondered if companies could now be registered in the name of pets. “Earlier, I heard of politicians buying flats in the name of dogs. Now it seems even businesses can be started by them!” remarked one social media user.

Sarcasm and jokes spread rapidly online. “This time my pet Doggy-Ty will be the MD (Managing Director)!” quipped another user, while someone else asked, “If a dog’s name is on the license, who will pay the business tax—the owner or the dog?”

Though the KMC has not issued an official clarification yet, administrative sources suggested that the appearance of the option was likely a technical glitch, possibly linked to the pet registration module. Officials hinted that the wrong column may have been displayed under the trade license section due to a system error.

The incident, however, has highlighted how even a minor digital misstep can spark widespread humor, public criticism, and questions about the efficiency of online governance. Until an official explanation is issued, the debate—half critical, half comical—continues to trend across social and business circles in Kolkata.

Politics, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee Files Counter Affidavit at Calcutta High Court Over Diamond Harbour Election Petition

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews |  Kolkata | August 25, 2025 : Trinamool Congress All India General Secretary and Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee appeared at the Calcutta High Court on Monday morning, drawing attention and speculation over his unannounced visit. Banerjee arrived around 11 a.m., stayed for about 15 minutes, and left after completing formalities related to an election petition filed against him.

Court officials confirmed that Banerjee’s appearance was to sign and submit a counter affidavit in response to a petition filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Abhijit Das, who had contested against him in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Diamond Harbour. Several Trinamool lawyers greeted Banerjee at the court premises, with some even taking photographs with him before he departed.

Das had moved the Calcutta High Court last year, challenging the results of the Diamond Harbour constituency and alleging irregularities during the election. In the 2024 polls, Banerjee secured his third consecutive victory with 10,48,230 votes, while Das polled 3,37,300. The margin of 7,10,930 votes not only gave Banerjee a landslide win but also set a record in West Bengal for the highest margin of victory in that election.

The case gained renewed attention in April this year when the High Court directed the preservation of all election-related materials, including data, CCTV footage, and digital records from the constituency. The Election Commission and the district electoral officer were specifically instructed to maintain these records.

On August 19, the Calcutta High Court warned that an ex parte order could be passed against Banerjee if he failed to respond to the petition. While his legal team requested additional time, the court set August 28 as the final deadline for filing his reply. Monday’s court appearance was therefore crucial, as Banerjee formally filed his counter affidavit ahead of the deadline. The court has now scheduled the next hearing for September 4.

The issue has also taken on a political dimension in recent weeks. Senior BJP leader and Union Minister Anurag Thakur alleged at a press conference that a large number of ineligible voters were included in Diamond Harbour’s rolls. Trinamool Congress countered this claim, stating that Banerjee’s representatives had visited Thakur’s residence with a pen drive reportedly containing video evidence and documents refuting the allegations. Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari later echoed similar concerns, adding further weight to the opposition’s challenge.

With the matter once again active before the High Court and the assembly elections approaching, the political spotlight has returned sharply to Diamond Harbour. Banerjee’s massive 2024 victory margin remains both a point of pride for the Trinamool Congress and a source of dispute for his rivals, making the outcome of the legal proceedings significant for Bengal’s evolving political narrative.

West Bengal

Calcutta High Court Women Judges Hold Key Juvenile Justice Meeting in Durgapur

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Focus on Collaborative Justice, Crime Reduction, and Child Welfare Across Four Districts

Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | Kolkata | August 23, 2025 : 

In a rare but significant move, a team of women judges from the Calcutta High Court traveled from Kolkata to Durgapur on Saturday morning to participate in a high-level regional meeting focused on juvenile justice and child welfare. These are not just any judges—they are the same legal minds behind some of the state’s most impactful verdicts, and they continue to oversee sensitive cases that shape West Bengal’s judicial landscape.

The gathering, organized under the supervision of the Juvenile Justice Committee of the Calcutta High Court, was hosted at the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s conference hall in Durgapur, in West Burdwan district. The event was held in collaboration with the Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Department of the West Bengal Government, and brought together officials from four key districts: West Burdwan, East Burdwan, Birbhum, and Hooghly.

Security was tight around the SDM office from early morning, reflecting the significance of the occasion and the stature of the visiting dignitaries. Among those present were Justice Shampa Sarkar, Chairperson of the Calcutta High Court’s Juvenile Justice Committee, along with committee members Justice Amrita Sinha and Justice Smita Das De. The Juvenile Justice Secretariat was represented by Secretary Mau Chattopadhyay and Additional Secretary Payal Banerjee.

Judicial officers including District Judges, Additional District Judges, and Sub-divisional Court Judges from all four participating districts also joined the discussions, marking a robust inter-district judicial collaboration.

Speaking to the media, Additional District Magistrate of West Burdwan, Sanjay Pal, said, “This meeting brought together key judicial figures to discuss how the police, administration, and courts can work in coordination. The goal is not just effective justice delivery but also reducing crime and raising social awareness.”

The discussions focused on streamlining the juvenile justice process, ensuring proper rehabilitation measures, and promoting inter-agency cooperation. Judges emphasized the importance of sensitizing law enforcement and local authorities toward child protection, prevention of juvenile offenses, and rehabilitative justice rather than punitive approaches alone.

Beyond legal procedures, the meeting also highlighted the need for community involvement and awareness campaigns to address the root causes of juvenile crime and neglect. The cross-district coordination is expected to pave the way for more consistent and child-friendly practices across the region.

This initiative underscores the growing importance of integrated, grassroots-level judicial engagement, especially in matters concerning children and vulnerable populations. As the judiciary steps beyond the courtroom to interact directly with administrative and enforcement agencies, the move signals a progressive shift in how justice is delivered and perceived in West Bengal.

West Bengal

SSC Teacher Recruitment Exam to Be Held as Scheduled Amid Court Remarks and Administrative Preparations

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, August 23, 2025 : Despite widespread speculation and legal ambiguity, the School Service Commission (SSC) has officially confirmed that the upcoming teacher recruitment examinations will proceed as originally scheduled. The decision comes amid growing anticipation and concern among candidates and educators, following verbal observations made by the Supreme Court suggesting the possibility of a postponement.

The two-phase SSC teacher recruitment examination—one of the largest recruitment drives in the state’s education sector—will involve approximately 5.8 lakh candidates across West Bengal. According to SSC sources, the recruitment exam for classes 9 and 10 will take place on September 7, while the exam for classes 11 and 12 is scheduled for September 14.

This announcement arrives shortly after the Supreme Court verbally remarked on Thursday that the examination could be postponed “if the commission so wishes.” However, the state administration, along with the Commission, has asserted that postponement is not viable under the current circumstances. The key reason cited is the Supreme Court’s previous directive that all teachers and education staff—except those specifically declared ineligible—are permitted to continue in their respective roles until December 31, 2025.

Educational administrators and policymakers argue that deferring the examination would complicate recruitment timelines severely, especially with Durga Puja festivities approaching at the end of September. The accompanying holidays would further delay the publication of results and the initiation of the recruitment process. If recruitment is not completed within the stipulated time, the state may face a severe shortfall of teachers and educational personnel starting January 2026.

Given this time-sensitive scenario, the Commission has determined to stay the course, emphasizing the importance of completing the recruitment process within the court-mandated service continuation window. Administrative machinery has been mobilized at the highest level to ensure the smooth conduct of the examination.

In a high-level meeting convened at Nabanna on Friday, Chief Secretary Manoj Pant reviewed examination preparedness and directed district authorities to implement strict measures for a fair and secure examination process. District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police were instructed to enforce robust arrangements, with an Additional District Magistrate (ADM)-rank officer assigned in every district to supervise operations and logistics.

With the government’s focus now firmly set on ensuring transparency and security in the recruitment process, the upcoming SSC exams are poised to take place on the scheduled dates, marking a crucial milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its educational infrastructure.

Health, West Bengal

Kolkata’s Shambhunath Pandit Hospital to Launch Eastern India’s First Government-Run Bone Bank

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Pioneering Move to Revolutionize Orthopedic Care and Trauma Recovery in the Region

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews | Kolkata | August 23, 2025 : In a historic leap for medical infrastructure in Eastern India, Kolkata’s Shambhunath Pandit Hospital is all set to establish the region’s first government-run bone bank—a significant advancement that promises to transform trauma care, orthopedic surgery, and medical rehabilitation across the state and beyond. The West Bengal Health Department has granted in-principle approval for this pioneering initiative, which will operate as an annex of the IPGME&R SSKM Hospital, specifically under the administrative scope of its Bapi Ji annex.

This landmark decision is viewed as a major milestone not just for Kolkata, but for all of Eastern and Northeastern India. Once operational, the bone bank will serve as a life-saving facility for thousands of patients suffering from bone-related complications, especially in cases of trauma, cancer, severe infections, or medical amputations. The facility will enable the transplantation of preserved bones, offering critical medical support in situations where natural bone regeneration is not possible or the patient’s own bone cannot be used for grafting.

Medical experts underscore the urgency and importance of such a facility, particularly in a populous region where accidents and non-communicable diseases continue to rise. Whether it’s a road accident resulting in multiple fractures or cancer requiring surgical bone removal, stored bones from the bank can be used to accelerate recovery, reduce complications, and significantly enhance the success of surgical interventions.

According to the proposal submitted by the director of Shambhunath Pandit Hospital, the bone bank will be developed using the hospital’s existing infrastructure, skilled orthopedic team, and current medical staff. This strategic use of resources ensures that the project will be implemented without exerting undue pressure on the state health budget, while still delivering world-class orthopedic care to the public sector.

The planned facility will perform two primary functions:

  1. Trauma Bone Replacement – Offering quick transplantation of bones in cases of fractures due to accidents or injury, enhancing recovery time and reducing the risk of long-term disability.

  2. Medical Rehabilitation – Enabling bone grafts for patients whose bones were removed due to cancer or severe infections, thus improving their quality of life and medical prognosis.

Notably, the bone bank will also help reduce the dependency on private institutions or medical travel to other states or countries, offering advanced care locally at significantly reduced costs. In previous years, many patients had no option but to seek bone grafts from private or out-of-state facilities, causing delays and financial burdens. With the establishment of this facility, Kolkata will become a hub of advanced orthopedic care for the entire region.

Orthopedic surgeons and trauma care experts across the city have welcomed the move, stating that access to a bone bank will revolutionize emergency response and post-operative recovery. In situations where harvesting bone from a patient’s own body is not possible—either due to poor health or multiple injuries—a bone bank can offer a life-saving alternative, potentially bridging the gap between injury and recovery.

The government notice specifies that the bone bank will be set up at Annex 2 of Shambhunath Pandit Hospital, under the direct operational control of the IPGME&R SSKM Hospital, marking the first such facility in any government hospital in Eastern India. The process involves the scientific collection, processing, and preservation of bones, primarily from consented organ donors, especially in cases of brain death, where the family has agreed to donate the deceased’s organs and tissues for medical use.

Once collected, the bones will be stored under controlled, sterile conditions and can be used in treating a range of conditions—from osteomyelitis and osteoarthritis to complex orthopedic surgeries. This technology is already a global standard in many developed countries, and its arrival in the government healthcare system of West Bengal is seen as a game-changing moment for public health delivery.

The project also holds promising potential in the field of medical research and innovation. Experts believe that the availability of preserved bone tissue will contribute to the development of new surgical methods, the improvement of existing treatment protocols, and further collaboration between research institutions and trauma care units.

In conclusion, the launch of Eastern India’s first government-operated bone bank at Shambhunath Pandit Hospital is a monumental step forward in public healthcare, offering renewed hope to patients and positioning Kolkata as a future-ready city in orthopedic and trauma medicine. As implementation begins, the state health authorities remain committed to ensuring timely execution, ethical compliance, and the highest standards of medical care for all beneficiaries.