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Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Gains Strength as CPI(M) Councilor Joins Ahead of Assembly Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 24, 2025, North Dumdum : With the Assembly elections scheduled for March 26, the political landscape in West Bengal has witnessed significant shifts, as parties intensify their efforts to consolidate their influence. The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) is making notable strides in expanding its base ahead of the crucial polls.


In a recent development, Haldia MLA Tapsi Mandal defected from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to join the Trinamool Congress. Following this, another major political  has taken place, this time within the Left camp. Sandhya Rani Mandal, a prominent councilor from North Dumdum Municipality, has parted ways with the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] and joined the Trinamool Congress.

Sandhya Rani Mandal represented Ward No. 15 of North Dumdum Municipality and was a key opposition figure in the region. Notably, she was the only CPI(M) councilor, akin to the Shivaratri Salat case in North Dumdum. Her departure marks a significant setback for the Left, further diminishing its political hold in the area.

Her formal induction into the Trinamool Congress was officiated by State Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya, who handed over the party flag in a symbolic gesture. This shift comes in the wake of the 2022 municipal elections, where Trinamool Congress secured victory in 33 out of the 34 wards in North Dumdum Municipality. Ward No. 15 had remained the only bastion of CPI(M), with Sandhya Rani Mandal holding the position for three years as a dedicated representative of her party.

Her decision to align with the Trinamool Congress ahead of the elections underscores the growing influence of the ruling party and its strategic efforts to consolidate power before the upcoming polls. Political observers believe this move could further weaken the Left’s presence in the region, setting the stage for a more challenging electoral battle for the opposition parties. 
National, Politics, West Bengal

Amit Shah Cancels March Visit to Bengal Due to Eid Festivities

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 24, 2025, Kolkata :  Union Home Minister Amit Shah has canceled his scheduled visit to Bengal at the end of March, citing the upcoming Eid festival. The announcement was made by West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar on Saturday. Shah was originally set to visit the state on March 29 and hold a series of meetings with party leaders and workers throughout March 30. However, there were no plans for a public rally during this trip.


With the 2026 elections approaching, the BJP is intensifying its efforts to strengthen its position in Bengal. Shah’s visit was seen as a crucial step in strategizing for the upcoming electoral battle. However, in a statement, Majumdar clarified, “Amit Shah’s visit to Bengal in March has been canceled. Eid is on the 31st, and he has decided to postpone his visit in honor of the festival. We will inform everyone about his revised schedule soon. Many central leaders will visit Bengal in the coming days as part of our election preparations.”

Meanwhile, the BJP’s organizational elections in Bengal are also underway. Commenting on the party’s internal restructuring, Majumdar stated, “BJP is an organizational party. Most district presidents have already been announced. Presidential elections in 18 districts are still pending, but the remaining district presidents will be announced very soon.”

While Shah’s visit has been postponed, the BJP remains active in its efforts to strengthen its base in Bengal ahead of the crucial elections.
Politics, West Bengal

CPM’s Shift from Red to Blue Sparks Political Controversy

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 24, 2025, Kolkata : The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) has made a striking shift in its visual identity, transitioning from its traditional red to a sky-blue theme on social media. The party’s cover photo and display picture now feature a blue sky, a yellow hammer and sickle, and white clouds. This unexpected change has ignited intense political discussions, raising questions about the CPM’s motives behind the transformation.


Political circles are abuzz with speculation about whether the party is strategically adopting blue—a color often associated with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC)—to reposition itself in Bengal’s political landscape. The cover photo also highlights the upcoming Brigade rally scheduled for April 20, adding further intrigue to the timing of the change.

TMC leader Debangshu Bhattacharya was quick to take a dig at the CPM, mocking the color shift in a social media post. Sharing an image of the updated CPM logo, he provocatively asked, “What is the perfect headline for this picture?” He further suggested, “Has CPM merged with blue and white?” Borrowing a line from Rupam Islam’s song, he quipped, “Today, blue has mixed with red?”

In a more pointed critique, Debangshu wrote sarcastically, “CPM, floating in space, has released its official display picture today?” He went on to remark that while various political groups have embraced blue over time, only six percent of the CPM’s base was left to do so—implying that the party has now completed the transition. Taking the metaphor further, he compared the party’s situation to astronaut Sunita Williams’ return to Earth after spending nine months in space, remarking that the CPM has been politically adrift for four years with no certainty of returning to solid ground even in the next five years.

The sudden visual shift has given rise to widespread debate over whether this is a tactical move to appeal to a broader voter base or a mere aesthetic change. While CPM leaders have yet to respond to the speculation, the controversy has already intensified discussions ahead of the crucial Brigade rally, making it a focal point for political observers in Bengal.
International, National, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Arrives in London After Delayed Flight Due to Heathrow Power Outage

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 24, 2025, Kolkata : Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee arrived in London at 12 noon Indian time on Sunday, following an unforeseen delay due to a power outage at Heathrow Airport. The airport, which had been facing disruptions since Saturday morning local time, resumed normal operations, allowing Banerjee to reach her destination approximately 12 hours behind schedule.


She departed from Kolkata at 8:20 pm on Saturday, but due to Heathrow’s closure, her flight schedule was significantly disrupted. After a stopover in Dubai, she boarded an A380 Airbus for London, ultimately landing at 7 am local time on Sunday.

Upon arrival, London displayed its characteristic rain-soaked ambiance, with a cloudy sky and a temperature of 9 degrees Celsius. Despite the travel delay, the Chief Minister remained engaged and spirited throughout her journey. Shortly after arriving in London, Banerjee began reviewing multiple administrative files. Her meetings on Sunday were part of preparations for the back-to-back investment meetings in which she will be addressing industry leaders in the UK, sources said. However, she did not have any official engagements scheduled for the day.

During her layover at Dubai Airport on Saturday midnight, Banerjee had an unexpected yet delightful interaction at the airport’s business lounge. She was among the excited audience watching two women from Gujarat dancing. As she entered the lounge, she noticed them practicing for mehendi celebrations they were set to attend in Europe. Recognizing her presence, they hesitated, but Banerjee encouraged them to continue, mentioning that she had recently enjoyed a Bhangra gig in Kolkata. Encouraged by her words, the duo resumed their performance, filling the lounge with energy and joy. Banerjee was also flooded with selfie requests in the Dubai lounge and graciously obliged every one of them.

The Chief Minister is staying at a hotel close to Buckingham Palace and has a packed itinerary for the week. On Monday, she is scheduled to attend an event at the Indian High Commission in London. On Tuesday, she will participate in an investment meeting with British business leaders. Wednesday will see her at a government-level trade meeting, where key economic discussions are expected to take place. On Thursday, Banerjee will deliver a lecture on ‘Empowerment and Success of Women in Bengal’ at Kellogg College, Oxford University.

With a series of high-profile engagements lined up, Banerjee’s visit is aimed at strengthening business and cultural ties between Bengal and the UK while also highlighting Bengal’s achievements in various sectors.

Economy, West Bengal

Farmers Reap Profits with Raja Jute as Cultivation Successes Rise Across Bengal

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata : Farmers across West Bengal are experiencing a significant boost in earnings, with the cultivation of Raja Jute proving to be highly profitable. Raja Jute, a variety of jute known for its taller stature and superior fiber quality, is providing farmers with an additional profit of ₹10,000 per acre. This new variety has sparked so much enthusiasm that it has even inspired folk artists to compose songs in its honor.


The remarkable Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata : uccess of Raja Jute has been seen across multiple districts, with seed developer Nuziveedu Seeds praising the positive outcomes. To highlight the benefits, a series of ‘Celebrity Mega Field Day’ events have been organized in districts like Nadia, Murshidabad, Malda, and North 24 Parganas. These events have provided a platform for farmers to learn about the advantages of Raja Jute and hear success stories from their peers.

At an event held in Baliura village of Patharghata 2 No. Gram Panchayat, well-known Sa Re Ga Ma Pa artist Dipayan Banerjee performed songs that highlighted the benefits of the Raja Jute seeds (NJ 7005). Through music and discussions, Banerjee shared stories of farmers who had seen impressive results from cultivating this variety.

According to Nuziveedu Seeds, Raja Jute offers farmers at least 2 quintals more per acre compared to traditional varieties, contributing to higher yields and increased profits. This success is attributed to its longer fibers, thicker bark, and overall greater productivity. The NJ-7005 Raja Jute variety, developed in 2020 by Dr. Mohammad Mosiur Rahman, head scientist at Nuziveedu Seeds, has revolutionized jute farming with its low cultivation costs and superior-quality fiber.

The Raja Jute variety stands out for being at least two feet taller than regular jute, resulting in more fiber production. As a result, farmers are now able to sell their crops at higher prices, addressing the longstanding issue of shorter Indian jute fiber, which has been a challenge for industries.

Farmers are encouraged to look for the government-approved blue sticker on seed packets to ensure they are purchasing authentic NJ-7005 seeds. Many farmers across various villages have already adopted this variety and are seeing improvements in both their yields and their livelihoods. Motivated by these successes, many farmers plan to continue cultivating Raja Jute for future seasons.

In Malda’s Kalitala, Bhutni, and Manikchak, renowned folk singer Uttam Baul performed songs celebrating Raja Jute on March 22. His performance captivated the audience, sparking further enthusiasm among locals to embrace this new seed variety. As more farmers discover the potential of Raja Jute, this variety is poised to open new opportunities for jute farming across the region.
Politics, West Bengal

Dilip Ghosh Faces Backlash from Women Protesters in Kharagpur Over Remarks During Road Inauguration

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kharagpur, March 22, 2025 : Former Midnapore MP Dilip Ghosh found himself at the center of controversy on Friday afternoon when he was confronted by a group of women during the inauguration of a cast-iron road in Ward No. 6 of Kharagpur, also known as ‘Rail City.’ The women, expressing their frustration, questioned Ghosh’s absence during his tenure as MP and challenged his involvement in the project.


Upon Ghosh’s arrival to inaugurate the road, the women expressed their dissatisfaction, asking, “Where have you been all this time, grandfather? We didn’t see you even once when you were an MP. Now, you’ve come after our councilor, Pradeep Sarkar, has built the road?” In response, Ghosh claimed, “I gave money. Not anyone’s father’s money! Go and ask Pradeep Sarkar.” This reply only fueled further frustration among the protesters, and one woman reportedly retorted, “Why did you raise your father?”

The situation escalated quickly when Ghosh, apparently agitated, was heard using offensive language towards the women. He reportedly told the protesters, “Take 500 rupees and yell.” When the women continued their protest, Ghosh allegedly raised his voice, telling them, “I will strangle you.” One of the protesters then questioned why he had invoked such language, to which Ghosh is said to have replied, “I will raise a ‘fourteen-year-old man.’”

The exchange continued with accusations that Ghosh had made inappropriate and obscene comments toward the women, further enraging the protesters. The women of the area made it clear that such language would not be tolerated, condemning the remarks as disrespectful.

As tensions rose, the situation became a point of public concern, with locals demanding accountability for Ghosh’s conduct. The incident is likely to lead to further discussions about the treatment of women in politics and the need for respectful discourse from public figures.
International, National, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Departs for London After Flight Delay, Assures Constant Communication

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee finally left for London on Saturday night at around 8:30 PM, following a delay caused by a fire near London’s Heathrow Airport. She arrived at Dum Dum Airport precisely at 6:30 PM and, before entering, addressed reporters, delivering a message of assurance and hope to the people of the state.


“We may be away for 4-5 days, but we will always remain in touch with the people here. If anyone faces any difficulties, we will address them. Stay healthy and at peace,” she said.

Initially, Mamata Banerjee and her delegation were scheduled to depart on a morning flight via Dubai. However, on Friday morning, operations at Heathrow Airport were disrupted after a fire broke out at a power plant near the airport, leading to widespread flight cancellations. As a result, her travel plans had to be postponed. With the situation now under control, the Chief Minister opted for a night flight instead.

In her absence, a five-member task force, formed under her directive, will oversee administrative operations. However, she reiterated that she would personally stay connected and intervene if necessary.

Speaking at the airport on Saturday, Banerjee acknowledged the delay and the challenges of the long journey. “Our night flight will take us to Dubai around midnight, followed by another flight to London. Since there is no direct service, the journey will take nearly two days. It will be quite hectic, but that’s okay,” she remarked.

Despite the travel complications, the Chief Minister reassured that she remains committed to her responsibilities, ensuring that governance continues smoothly even while she is abroad.
Politics, West Bengal

Ram Navami Celebrations in Bengal: Calls for Mass Participation Spark Debate

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal has always been a state where people of all religions practice their faith freely. There is no restriction on celebrating Ram Navami either. However, historically, the festival has not been observed on a grand scale in the state. Over the past two to three years, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has actively promoted the large-scale celebration of Ram Navami, and this year is no exception. The leader of the opposition has once again called for grand celebrations, intertwining it with the discourse on Hindutva.


This call has sparked debate, particularly due to two contentious points. Firstly, the opposition leader has urged one crore Hindus to take to the streets on Ram Navami, which is being perceived as a demonstration of radical Hindutva. Secondly, he asserted that no administrative permission would be required for such gatherings. While religious celebrations are welcomed, maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the administration. If such a massive crowd takes to the streets, it could disrupt public movement and transportation. Therefore, administrative approval may be necessary to ensure that the festivities do not lead to any law-and-order issues.

The opposition leader has emphasized that the streets of Bengal will be filled with chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ on Ram Navami. There is no objection to a large turnout, be it one crore or even more, as he claims. However, the primary concern remains the peaceful and orderly conduct of the celebrations. If those participating ensure that their festivities do not cause inconvenience to others, neither the administration nor the general public should have any objections.

As Bengal prepares for Ram Navami, the focus remains on ensuring that religious observances are conducted in a harmonious manner, respecting both the celebratory spirit and public order.
National, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee’s Leadership Highlighted Through Posters as She Embarks on Foreign Tour

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata :  West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee left for a week-long foreign tour on Saturday, but before her departure, the city of Kolkata witnessed an intriguing display of political messaging. A series of posters surfaced across South Kolkata, first declaring Abhishek Banerjee as the “Captain” and later reinforcing Mamata Banerjee’s position as the supreme leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

The initial posters, seen on Friday morning, referred to Abhishek Banerjee as the “Captain,” written in blue ink on bright yellow flags, covering areas from Jadavpur to other parts of South Kolkata. However, by midnight, the posters had changed. A new set featuring the image of Mamata Banerjee appeared, bearing the slogan “Sarbadhinayaka Jai Hai” (Victory to the Supreme Leader). These posters quickly spread across the city and social media, strategically placed beside those featuring Abhishek Banerjee.

Sources suggest that this move comes as Mamata Banerjee embarks on her visit to London, entrusting Abhishek Banerjee with key responsibilities in her absence. The timing of these posters also aligns with the approaching 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, reinforcing that Mamata Banerjee remains the primary face of the party, with Abhishek Banerjee playing a significant role alongside her.

Addressing the development, Debangshu Bhattacharya, head of the TMC’s IT cell, explained that “Fam” is one of many support groups backing the Trinamool Congress on social media, and “Captain Abhishek” is a branch of their organization. He confirmed that the posters were a demonstration of their support.

As political dynamics unfold within the party, the dual messaging of these posters highlights the evolving leadership narrative within the TMC while reaffirming Mamata Banerjee’s dominant role in the upcoming electoral battle.

West Bengal

Raja Jute Cultivation Brings Additional Profit and New Opportunities to Farmers

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata :  Farmers are experiencing an additional profit of 10,000 taka per acre by cultivating Raja jute, a variety that boasts fibers at least two feet longer than ordinary jute and is known for its superior quality. Artists connected with the soil have composed songs celebrating Raja jute, highlighting its benefits and the positive impact it has had on agriculture. Nujiveedu Seeds, the company behind the invention of the NJ 7005 Raja jute seed, has expressed immense satisfaction with the success of this variety in several districts across the state. To showcase this success, a ‘Celebrity Mega Field Day’ program has been launched to promote Raja jute cultivation in Nadia, Murshidabad, Malda, and North 24 Parganas.

At a special event held in Baliura village of Patharghata 2 Gram Panchayat in Nadia, renowned artist Dipayan Banerjee performed a song about Raja jute. The song highlighted the use and success of NJ 7005 Raja jute seeds, which have been well-received by local farmers. Banerjee’s performance not only entertained but also educated the crowd about the advantages of growing this variety of jute.

Nujiveedu Seeds, the producer of Raja jute, stated that farmers are earning an additional 10,000 taka per acre thanks to the long fibers of Raja jute and its impressive yield. On average, farmers are seeing a minimum increase of 2 quintals per acre compared to other jute varieties. Developed in 2020 by Dr. Mohammad Mashiur Rahman, Chief Scientist of the Research Department at Nujiveedu Seeds, NJ 7005 Raja jute has revolutionized the jute cultivation industry. The variety not only lowers cultivation costs but also provides higher yields, better-quality fibers, and increased profit margins for farmers.

One of the key features of Raja jute is its length. Compared to other jute varieties, it is two feet longer, which results in higher yields and thicker bark. This thicker bark enhances the quality of the fibers, making them more valuable in the market. Farmers are receiving better prices for their jute due to the improved yield and quality of the fibers. Another advantage of Raja jute is its fiber, which is significantly longer and stronger than the traditional varieties cultivated in India, solving a long-standing issue in the industry.

To ensure farmers purchase authentic seeds, Nujiveedu Seeds advises them to look for the blue government sticker on the back of the seed packet to avoid counterfeiting. Many farmers across various villages have already experienced the benefits of Raja jute, with numerous families seeing improved financial stability. As a result, many are eager to continue cultivating this seed in the future.

On March 22, renowned Uttam Baul performed a song about Raja jute in the villages of Maldaher, Kalitala, Bhutni, and Manikachak. The locals were thrilled to hear his song, which not only entertained but also encouraged those who had not yet started cultivating Raja jute. After listening to the song and discussions, many farmers are now motivated to start cultivating Raja jute in the upcoming seasons. This new variety has opened up a promising new chapter in the world of jute cultivation, offering hope and prosperity to the farming community.

International, National

US returns 588 antiquities to India, 297 received in 2024, says government

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The Union minister was also asked whether the government plans to collaborate with international organisations or other nations to strengthen India’s efforts in recovering stolen antiquities

PTI, 20.03.25 :  As many as 588 antiquities have been repatriated to India from the US so far, out of which 297 were received in 2024, the government informed Parliament on Thursday.

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said this in a written response to a query in Rajya Sabha.

He was asked the number of “looted or stolen artifacts” expected to be repatriated under US-India Cultural Property Agreement to prevent illicit trade of antiquities.

“Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) has been signed with the United States of America (USA) to prevent smuggling of Indian antiquities. Agreement, being preventive in nature, has no timelines or target numbers. So far, 588 antiquities have been repatriated from USA, out of which 297 were received in 2024,” he stated.

The Union minister was also asked whether the government plans to collaborate with international organisations or other nations to strengthen India’s efforts in recovering stolen antiquities.

“India collaborates with different international organisations, including UNESCO and INTERPOL, as per requirement. The CPA has provision for fostering cooperation and mutual understanding in the matters of technical assistance, illicit trade and pillage of cultural property,” he added.

In a separate query, he was asked whether the government has observed a “resurgence of ancient sects,” particularly during events like the Kumbh Mela.

The Kumbh Mela is a significant Hindu pilgrimage festival and one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, where millions of devotees converge to bathe in sacred rivers. During this event, many ancient sects, spiritual organisations and religious leaders come together, often showcasing rituals, traditions and practices that have been passed down through centuries, Shekhawat said.

“The resurgence of ancient sects in India is driven by factors such as a growing interest in cultural and spiritual heritage coupled with the search for deeper meaning amid modern religious challenges,” he said.

Social media and religious tourism have also played a role in spreading awareness of these sects. This revival is significant in contemporary society as it helps to preserve traditional practices, offers an alternative to materialism, fosters social cohesion and strengthens national pride in India’s cultural roots, the minister said.
International, National

Elon Musk’s X files lawsuit in Karnataka High Court, accuses India of arbitrary censorship

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The lawsuit alleged the govt is using the Section 79(3)(b) of Information Technology (IT) Act to create a parallel content-blocking mechanism, bypassing the structured legal process outlined in Section 69A

PTI, 20.03.25 : Social media giant ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), owned by US billionaire Elon Musk, has filed a lawsuit in the Karnataka High Court against Government of India, challenging what it called unlawful content regulation and arbitrary censorship.

It raised concerns over the Centre’s interpretation of the Information Technology (IT) Act, particularly its use of Section 79(3)(b), which ‘X’ argues violates Supreme Court rulings and undermines free expression online.

The lawsuit alleged the government is using the said section to create a parallel content-blocking mechanism, bypassing the structured legal process outlined in Section 69A.

‘X’ claimed this approach contradicts the Supreme Court’s 2015 ruling in the Shreya Singhal case, which established that content can only be blocked through a proper judicial process or the legally defined route under Section 69A.

According to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B), Section 79(3)(b) mandates online platforms to remove illegal content when directed by either a court order or a government notification.

If a platform fails to comply within 36 hours, it risks losing its safe harbor protection under Section 79(1) and could be held accountable under various laws, including the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

However, X has contested this interpretation, arguing that the provision does not grant the government independent authority to block content.

Instead, it accused authorities of misusing the law to impose arbitrary censorship without following due process.

Under Section 69A of the IT Act, the government has the power to block public access to digital content if it is deemed a threat to national security, sovereignty, or public order. However, this process is regulated by the 2009 Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public) Rules, which require a structured review process before blocking decisions are made.

‘X’ has argued that instead of following these procedures, the government is using Section 79(3)(b) as a shortcut, allowing content to be removed without the necessary scrutiny. The platform sees this as a direct violation of legal safeguards meant to prevent arbitrary censorship.

Another major point in the social media platform’s legal challenge is its opposition to the government’s Sahyog portal.

Created by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, this platform was designed to streamline takedown requests under Section 79(3)(b) and facilitate direct communication between social media platforms and law enforcement agencies.

However, ‘X’ has refused to onboard an employee onto the Sahyog portal, claiming it acts as a “censorship tool” that pressures platforms to remove content without proper legal review.

The lawsuit argues that this is yet another attempt by the government to control online discourse without judicial oversight.
Crime, Politics

Sujoy Krishna Bhadra Seeks Extension of Conditional Bail from Calcutta High Court

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, March 20, 2025: Sujoy Krishna Bhadra, who was arrested in connection with a recruitment case, has once again approached the Calcutta High Court seeking an extension of his conditional interim bail and a relaxation of the imposed conditions.


Bhadra was  initially granted interim bail due to health concerns, first in an Enforcement Directorate (ED) case in December and later in a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) case in February. The division bench of Justice Arijit Banerjee and Justice Apurba Singh Roy had noted concerns over Bhadra’s deteriorating heart cndition and decided to grant him bail on medical grounds. As a result, he has been staying at home under these conditions until the last week of March.

His case is scheduled to be heard in court later this month, where his legal team is expected to present arguments for extending the bail period. Reports suggest that the latest application also requests a reduction in the conditions imposed on him during the interim bail. The court’s decision on the matter will determine whether Bhadra continues to remain out on bail or has to comply with stricter legal proceedings.
Politics, West Bengal

Political Tensions Escalate in Baruipur Amid BJP and Trinamool Processions

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : Political tensions flared in Baruipur, South 24 Parganas, on Wednesday as rival processions by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) took place within 100 meters of each other. The situation quickly escalated into a heated exchange, with both parties raising slogans—’Jai Shri Ram’ from BJP supporters and ‘Jai Bangla’ from the TMC camp.


The controversy deepened as remarks made by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari came under fresh scrutiny. During the march, BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul, who accompanied Adhikari, stated, “We are being shown black flags because we stand for traditional Hindus. But we also support nationalist Muslims. If there is injustice, we will raise our voices against it. If someone thinks they can silence us with black flags, then they don’t understand the BJP.”

The police were quick to intervene, managing to de-escalate the tense atmosphere to some extent. The unrest stemmed from an earlier incident in the state assembly, where Speaker Biman Banerjee denied Adhikari the opportunity to speak. In protest, Adhikari led the BJP rally through Banerjee’s constituency in Baruipur, prompting TMC to organize a counter-rally in response.

With assembly elections approaching, the political climate in West Bengal appears to be increasingly charged, with religious undertones shaping the discourse. Adhikari, a prominent leader of the opposition, had previously declared, “I am an MLA of Hindus,” a remark that, while controversial, did not initially spark widespread debate. However, Paul’s clarification that the BJP represents not just Hindus but also nationalist Muslims has added a new dimension to the ongoing political discourse.

As political rivalries intensify, the incident underscores the deepening divide and the significance of religious identity in the state’s electoral battles.
Politics, West Bengal

Stalled Inauguration of Food Streets in Kolkata Sparks Concern

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : 

The Central Government’s ambitious plan to establish high-quality ‘food streets’ in 100 cities across India has hit a roadblock in Kolkata. Despite the construction of three such food hubs in the city, their inauguration remains indefinitely postponed due to ongoing disputes over stall distribution. The food streets were scheduled to open in 2024, offering a diverse culinary experience ranging from Chinese and Mughlai to Indian and Continental cuisines. However, unresolved tensions over stall allocation have delayed the launch, leaving these expensive establishments unused and deteriorating.

The food stalls, built at a cost of several crores of rupees, now stand neglected. According to municipal sources, the primary issue revolves around who will manage these stalls. One faction advocates for handing them over to large corporations to attract more visitors and enhance the appeal of the food streets. Another group insists that, as per the Centre’s guidelines, only registered hawkers should be allowed to operate these stalls. Further complicating matters, there is no consensus on the process of selecting hawkers and conducting fair allotment elections.

Due to this administrative impasse, the completed stalls at Russell Street, Patuli, and Tala remain unutilized. Meanwhile, similar food street concepts have flourished in major cities across Europe and America, where designated locations serve as bustling culinary hubs. The Narendra Modi-led government introduced this initiative to replicate that success in India, with Kolkata among the selected cities. However, without a resolution on stall management, the vision of vibrant, organized food streets in Kolkata remains unrealized.

Local stakeholders and food lovers await swift intervention and a decisive resolution to prevent further wastage of resources and to bring Kolkata’s food streets to life as originally envisioned.
West Bengal

Rising Accidents on National Highway No. 16 Raise Concerns in Howrah and Surrounding Districts

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata :  The increasing number of accidents on National Highway No. 16, formerly known as Mumbai Road, has raised serious concerns among commuters and local residents. This vital route serves as the primary means of communication for people traveling between Howrah, East and West Medinipur, Jhargram, and Kolkata. However, the deteriorating condition of the road, coupled with reckless driving, has turned several sections into accident-prone zones, leading to frequent fatalities.

On Monday morning, a monk from Bharat Sevashram Sangh tragically lost his life in an accident on the highway in Bagnan, Howrah. Just the previous night, a minor was killed in another accident caused by reckless driving on the same stretch of road. Local authorities and district police officials have acknowledged the alarming rise in accidents on this crucial highway, with multiple intersections becoming virtual death traps.

Despite the ongoing expansion and development of the national highway, the number of accidents continues to surge. A senior official from the district police explained that most of these mishaps occur late at night or in the early hours of the morning when traffic police presence is minimal. Many drivers, taking advantage of the absence of law enforcement, violate traffic rules by switching lanes arbitrarily and disregarding signals, significantly increasing the risk of collisions.

Authorities have urged stricter enforcement of traffic laws, improved road conditions, and enhanced surveillance, especially during high-risk hours. As concerns grow over road safety, commuters and residents are calling for immediate measures to prevent further loss of life and make National Highway No. 16 safer for all travelers.

National, West Bengal

CM Mamata Banerjee Demands Bharat Ratna for Sunita Williams After Her Return from Space

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata :   After spending nine months in space, NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has safely returned to Earth along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore. Their return on Wednesday has sparked widespread relief and joy across the globe, particularly in India, where Sunita’s Indian heritage has generated immense excitement.


West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed her admiration for Sunita’s achievement and has urged the central government to confer the Bharat Ratna upon her. Standing in the Assembly, Mamata Banerjee declared, “Sunita is the daughter of India. I am requesting the central government to award her the Bharat Ratna.” She further stated that she had been closely following Sunita’s journey and had regularly checked on her status.

The Chief Minister took to her official X handle in the morning to extend her congratulations to Sunita and her fellow astronauts. Later, in the Assembly, she reiterated her appreciation, saying, “On behalf of the Legislative Assembly, I express my gratitude to Sunita Williams. Each of them has endured extreme physical challenges. I also extend my gratitude to the rescue team for ensuring their safe return.”

Mamata Banerjee also took the opportunity to remember Kalpana Chawla, the Indian-origin astronaut who tragically lost her life during the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. She discussed the technical difficulties that Kalpana’s spacecraft faced and compared them to the issues encountered by Sunita’s mission. “Kalpana Chawla also went. She could not return. I have studied space science. We see that when planes face technical issues, they return. I have heard that this spacecraft also had some problems. It actually caught fire. That is why they had to be stuck in space for so many months. Special thanks to the rescue team,” she said.

Sunita Williams has now set a new record for her prolonged stay at the space station, adding another milestone to her illustrious career. Mamata Banerjee emphasized the mental challenges astronauts face during extended space missions, stating, “They spent days in mental anguish. A storm raged in their minds. I checked on them every day. I saw that two countries came forward to help NASA. They landed in Florida. I congratulate them.”

The call for Bharat Ratna has added momentum to the nationwide celebration of Sunita Williams’ remarkable journey, as she continues to inspire millions with her contributions to space exploration.
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