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Politics, West Bengal

Madan Mitra’s Fiery Remarks Highlight Internal Turmoil in Trinamool Congress

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 19, 2025, Kolkata: In the midst of growing internal discord within the Trinamool Congress, party MLA Madan Mitra has stirred fresh controversy with sharp comments targeting party councilors. Speaking at a recent event in Belgharia, Mitra admonished councilors who allegedly disregard party workers and supporters, delivering a scathing critique of their conduct.


Mitra urged supporters to bypass indifferent councilors and contact him directly, stating, “If any councilor thinks of you as his servant and does not care, there’s no need to care about them. I’ll ensure they are held accountable.” He further taunted such councilors, claiming, “If the Trinamool cloth is taken away from them, they will not even find food to eat.”

The remarks, made in Mitra’s characteristic candid style, have sparked debate within the party. Once a heavyweight leader and a close confidant of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Mitra’s role within the party has diminished in recent years. His public rebuke of councilors, combined with the invocation of Banerjee’s name, has been perceived by some as an unprecedented move, reflecting dissatisfaction with the party’s internal dynamics.

This is not the first time internal unrest has surfaced in the Trinamool Congress. MLA Mohammad Abdul Gani recently lamented that party leaders, including those in top administrative positions, are often ignored. Following the murder of Dulal Sarkar in Malda, Gani remarked, “No one is listening anymore.”

Mitra’s bold statements have left political observers questioning whether they will deepen existing divisions within the party. Many within the Trinamool view the remarks as reflective of broader dissatisfaction among grassroots workers, while others worry that such public criticism could damage the party’s unity ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.

The ongoing tensions raise critical questions about the Trinamool Congress’s ability to maintain cohesion as it prepares to navigate the challenges of internal strife and electoral competition.
Politics, West Bengal

Religious Rhetoric Sparks Political Debate Ahead of Bengal Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 19, 2025, Kolkata: 

Bengal, long regarded as a bastion of non-communal harmony since independence, has witnessed a surge in divisive rhetoric in recent years. This polarization has seemingly intensified as political parties attempt to consolidate their vote banks ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in 2026.

Union Minister and BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar recently sparked controversy with remarks urging families to raise their children as “good Hindus” devoted to religion and to “keep a sharp weapon at home” to safeguard their culture. Majumdar’s statement has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, with many expressing concern over the communal undertones of his message.

Trinamool Congress seized the opportunity to counter the remarks. Bharatpur MLA Humayun Kabir strongly condemned Majumdar’s statement, questioning its appropriateness. Kabir asserted, “Sukanta Babu should not remain the Union Education Minister for even a moment. Are educated individuals expected to advocate keeping weapons at home?”

Observers note that the BJP has been using religious appeals as a key strategy, often highlighting issues tied to identity politics. Leader of Opposition Shuvendu Adhikari has also been vocal in addressing Hindu voters, intensifying the discourse. Critics argue that such rhetoric is being employed to polarize communities, raising questions about why political leaders are prioritizing messages of religious identity over calls for unity and humanity.

The rise in communal narratives underscores a growing concern over the erosion of Bengal’s secular fabric. Many are left asking why political discourse cannot shift toward fostering harmony and celebrating the common identity of being human.
West Bengal

Fatal Road Accident Sparks Protest in Asansol

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 19, 2025, Asansol: Asansol witnessed rising tension on Sunday as local residents of Kulti staged a protest by blocking the ISCO New Road. The demonstration followed the tragic death of a resident in a road accident involving a speeding truck.


According to eyewitness accounts, heavy trucks and dumpers have been operating recklessly in the area, posing a constant threat to the safety of commuters. Residents allege that such vehicles often move at high speeds, especially during the morning hours, creating hazardous conditions for those traveling on bicycles or motorcycles. The lack of adequate traffic control has reportedly led to frequent accidents in the locality.

Sunday’s fatality involved a person who was struck by a truck while commuting to work on a moped. This incident has intensified public frustration, with protesters demanding immediate intervention from traffic authorities. They have called for stringent measures to regulate vehicular movement during peak school and office hours to prevent further tragedies.

The residents insist that traffic enforcement should prioritize public safety to ensure such incidents do not recur. Local authorities have been urged to address the grievances promptly.
Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Reaffirms Leadership, Prioritizes Senior Leaders in Trinamool Amid Intra-Party Dynamics

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 17, 2025, Purba Medinipur : In a decisive statement that underscores her authority and vision for the future of the Trinamool Congress, Mamata Banerjee declared, “I am the Chairperson, and I will run the party for ten years.” The Trinamool leader conveyed this message during a phone call with party MLAs from Purba Medinipur after the Kanthi Cooperative Bank elections on Wednesday. This assertion carries significant political weight amid ongoing debates about generational shifts within the party.


The remarks echo Mamata’s earlier statements at the National Working Committee meeting held in Kalighat, where she emphasized her control over the party’s finances and decision-making. Special importance was accorded to senior leaders during the meeting, reinforcing her focus on experienced leadership. Reiterating her stance in an assembly meeting with MLAs, Mamata stated, “I and Bakshi da will take care of the party,” highlighting her reliance on trusted veterans like Subrata Bakshi.

Mamata’s statement gains prominence against the backdrop of the long-standing “new vs. old” factional dynamics within the Trinamool Congress. This internal tension, which surfaced prominently after the party’s third consecutive victory in the 2021 state elections, continued to resonate leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Speculations about generational change within the party were further fueled by comments from Trinamool All India General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, who advocated for an upper age limit in politics, suggesting a more active role for younger leaders.

However, Mamata Banerjee has consistently dismissed the notion of age being a barrier to effective leadership. “What is age? Is there an age in the human mind? Live like a Royal Bengal Tiger as long as you live,” she declared, signaling her intent to continue steering the party with vigor and determination.

Political analysts interpret Mamata’s recent remarks as a clear message to reaffirm her leadership and prioritize senior figures in maintaining the party’s organizational stability. This approach appears to balance the integration of new energy with the wisdom of experience, ensuring the party’s strategic coherence in an evolving political landscape.

As the Trinamool Congress navigates internal dynamics and prepares for upcoming challenges, Mamata Banerjee’s leadership and vision remain central to its trajectory. Her assertion of authority is seen as a move to unify the party under her guidance while addressing generational debates with pragmatism and resolve.
Politics, West Bengal

Calcutta High Court Expresses Displeasure Over Processions in Central Kolkata, Calls for Alternative Venues

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 17, 2025, Kolkata : Justice Tirthankar Ghosh of the Calcutta High Court has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the growing trend of meetings and processions in central Kolkata, which frequently result in severe traffic disruptions and hardships for the common people. Addressing a case concerning a protest procession related to the RG Kar Hospital tragedy, the court emphasized that in the future, such events must be held in alternative locations rather than in the city’s congested central areas.


Despite its dissatisfaction, the court granted conditional permission for the protest. The case stemmed from a petition seeking approval for a march from Wellington Square to Rani Rashmoni Avenue. The protest aimed to demand justice for the rape and murder of a female doctor whose mutilated body was discovered at RG Kar Hospital last August. Even after five months, the case remains unresolved, fueling public outrage and calls for accountability.

The petitioners revealed that their request for permission to hold the procession was denied by local police, prompting them to seek redress from the High Court. While granting permission, Justice Ghosh made it clear that such gatherings in central Kolkata would not be allowed in the future due to the disproportionate impact on traffic and public convenience. He urged authorities and organizers to identify alternative venues for demonstrations that minimize disruption to daily life.

This development highlights the growing tension between the public’s right to protest and the need to maintain civic order in Kolkata’s busiest districts. The court’s decision underscores the need for balanced solutions that respect both democratic freedoms and the practical challenges of urban life.
Politics, West Bengal

Young Trinamool Member Aparna Patra Gradually Recovers from Coma After Critical Cesarean Complications

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 17, 2025 : Aparna Patra, a 25-year-old Trinamool Congress member, remains under intensive care after falling into a coma following a cesarean section on January 6. Doctors at Ajanta Nursing Home, Chunchura, where she was admitted, revealed that 80% of her brain had been affected. Despite the critical condition, a dedicated medical team continues her treatment with faith in science and divine intervention.


Since Aparna’s hospitalization in the ICCU, the incident has drawn widespread concern and support. On January 7, MP Rachana Banerjee, MLA Tapan Dasgupta, and Chunchura MLA Asit Majumdar visited Ajanta Nursing Home to inquire about her condition and offer their prayers. Her family, friends, and party colleagues, along with villagers, have been collectively hoping for her swift recovery.

On January 11, MLA Asit Majumdar returned to the hospital, accompanied by Dr. Mihir Banerjee, a renowned physician from Hooghly district, to assess Aparna’s progress. The visit was also attended by Sugandha Gram Panchayat President Subrata Ghosh, Regional Trinamool Congress President Bidyut Sur, Aparna’s husband Totan Patra, and her family members.

Speaking to the media, Totan Patra expressed his gratitude to the medical team for their relentless efforts. He stated, “Aparna is showing signs of improvement, and I am praying to God that no one—friend or foe—ever faces such a tragedy.”

MLA Asit Majumdar echoed these sentiments, saying, “Aparna’s recovery is my deepest prayer. Her young child deserves to grow up with the love and care of their mother.” Regional Trinamool Congress President Bidyut Sur highlighted the exceptional care provided at Ajanta Nursing Home, saying, “This hospital has saved many lives. I commend the doctors and hope Aparna returns home soon, bringing joy to her family, especially her child.”

Dr. Mihir Banerjee, reflecting on the severity of Aparna’s condition upon admission, acknowledged that her gradual recovery is nothing short of a medical marvel. “Her case has been a testament to teamwork and dedication,” he noted. Supporting this view, the owner of Ajanta Nursing Home remarked that the institution prioritizes humanity over profit. “We are committed to serving people. Business comes later,” he said, adding a personal prayer for Aparna’s recovery.

As Aparna Patra fights for her life, her case has become a symbol of resilience, medical expertise, and the collective hope of a community bound by empathy and support.
Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Intervenes to Resolve Trinamool Conflict Over Cooperative Bank Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 15, 2025, Kolkata: Amid escalating tensions within the Trinamool Congress over the upcoming elections for the Kanthi Cooperative Bank, party supremo Mamata Banerjee stepped in to enforce order and resolve internal conflicts. The issue has centered around disagreements over candidate selection for the bank’s board of directors, leading to sharp divisions among party leaders in the district.


The election, scheduled for January 31, will determine 15 directors from 30 nominees, with the elected directors subsequently choosing the chairman. Allegations have surfaced that the selection process has been skewed to favor individuals aligned with former minister and district president Akhil Giri. This has drawn opposition from leaders supporting Uttam Barik, resulting in heated disputes.

Despite efforts by Trinamool’s state president Subrata Bakshi, including multiple meetings, the rift persisted. In a significant development on Wednesday, Bakshi called Mamata Banerjee during a meeting with district leaders, including Akhil Giri and Uttam Barik. Over the phone, Mamata delivered a decisive directive, stating that the panel prepared by Subrata Bakshi was final and must be adhered to.

Mamata also instructed those attempting to form alternate panels to immediately withdraw their efforts. She underscored her authority in the matter, announcing that she would personally select the chairman and vice-chairman after January 28.

The conflict escalated earlier when Akhil Giri allegedly issued incendiary remarks warning against dissent within the party, further complicating attempts at reconciliation.

This intervention by Mamata Banerjee highlights her role as the ultimate arbiter in party disputes, particularly in sensitive matters like the Kanthi Cooperative Bank elections, which are seen as a barometer of local influence and organizational control. As January 31 approaches, all eyes will be on the cooperative bank polls and the Trinamool Congress’s ability to maintain unity amid internal strife.
West Bengal

Artists’ Exclusion from Trinamool Events Sparks Controversy Amid Mixed Party Signals

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 15, 2025, Kolkata : Speculation continues to grow in West Bengal over the exclusion of certain artists from events organized by Trinamool Congress leaders and ministers, particularly those associated with the RG Kar movement. On Wednesday, Trinamool All India General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee denied allegations of politically motivated exclusions, asserting that party leader Mamata Banerjee does not endorse such practices.


However, contrasting signals from within the party have fueled the controversy. Trinamool state general secretary Kunal Ghosh acknowledged that many artists who criticized the state government and the Chief Minister during the RG Kar movement have been deliberately excluded from invitations. “Mamata Banerjee is the supreme leader, and I will not hear her views secondhand,” Ghosh stated, defending decisions to avoid inviting artists who he claims insulted the government and its leaders.

The issue dates back to the RG Kar movement, during which a section of artists openly criticized Mamata Banerjee’s handling of the Abhaya incident, a move that invited sharp backlash from a segment of Trinamool supporters. Reports suggest that in the aftermath, some cultural figures faced cancellations of bookings for New Year events and were excluded from non-political gatherings such as winter carnivals organized by clubs and organizations.

Abhishek Banerjee has consistently opposed such exclusions, reaffirming his stance on Wednesday. Despite his statements, Ghosh justified the decision, citing the unsparing language used by some artists against Trinamool leaders and policies during the movement.

This internal discord highlights a deeper divide within the party regarding its approach to dissent. While Abhishek Banerjee reiterates the party’s commitment to inclusivity, actions on the ground suggest that sentiments of loyalty and retaliation remain potent in determining participation in Trinamool-affiliated events.

The controversy underscores a balancing act for Trinamool Congress, navigating its commitment to artistic and political neutrality while addressing the fallout from critical voices within the cultural community.
National

Need to develop earthquake warning systems: PM Modi

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PTI, NEW DELHI, JAN 14, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday urged scientists to develop warning systems for earthquakes while noting that advanced weather forecasts have significantly reduced casualties and minimized economic losses caused by cyclones. Addressing a function to celebrate 150 years of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Modi also lauded the institution as a symbol of India’s scientific journey.


The Prime Minister noted how advanced weather forecasting has significantly reduced casualties during cyclones and minimized economic losses, boosting investor confidence and building economic resilience. The Prime Minister also launched ‘Mission Mausam’ for developing cutting-edge weather surveillance technologies and systems, implementing high-resolution atmospheric observations, next-generation radars and satellites, and high-performance computers. “We have launched ‘Mission Mausam’ to make India weather-ready and climate-smart,” Modi said.

The celebrations were attended by World Meteorological Organisation Secretary-General Celeste Saulo, Earth Sciences Minister Jitendra Singh, Earth Sciences Secretary M. Ravichandran, IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, and a host of dignitaries. Modi also released the IMD’s Vision-2047 document for weather resilience and climate change adaptation, a commemorative postage stamp, and a coin to mark 150 years of the IMD.

“Meteorology offers the most important support for the disaster management capability of any country. To minimize the impact of natural disasters, we need to maximize the efficiency of meteorology,” the Prime Minister said. He recalled how the cyclone in Gujarat’s Kandla in 1998 and the 1999 Odisha supercyclone killed thousands. “But loss of life is minimal now because of better forecasts,” he said.
West Bengal

Building Collapse in Baghajatin Traps 150, Injures Several

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 15, 2025, Kolkata : A multi-storey building collapsed in the Vidyasagar Colony area of Baghajatin, near Kolkata, on Tuesday afternoon, triggering panic and chaos in the surrounding region. The incident resulted in two neighboring houses tilting under the pressure from the collapse, trapping around 150 people inside. Preliminary reports suggest that two to three people were injured in the disaster.


The building, located in Ward Number 99 of the Kolkata Municipality, had been showing signs of damage for some time. Local councilor Mitali Banerjee confirmed that cracks had been visible on the structure for a while, prompting the promoter to initiate repairs without informing the municipality. According to Banerjee, she had become aware of the situation about a week ago and had instructed the promoter to halt the repairs and meet with her. She further mentioned that construction work ceased temporarily, but due to her involvement in the Poush Parvan celebrations, no further follow-up was conducted. She also noted that the promoter had not met with her as requested.

Former Left councilor Debashis Mukherjee, who had served during Banerjee’s tenure, revealed that the building had been constructed during her time in office. He also pointed out that the construction of buildings taller than three floors was prohibited in the area, accusing the promoter of carrying out unplanned and unauthorized construction.

Locals reported that the building had been gradually leaning for some time before the collapse. The promoter had reportedly brought in experts to attempt to straighten the structure when the disaster struck.

Rescue teams have been deployed to search for trapped individuals and to assist those injured in the collapse. Local authorities have begun investigating the cause of the disaster, with concerns over the safety and regulation of buildings in the area intensifying.
Politics, West Bengal

RSS Editorial Criticizes Bengali Nation’s Ideological Identity, Ignoring Progressive Icons

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 15, 2025, Kolkata : In a controversial editorial titled ‘Bengali’s Chaitanyadaya’, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has drawn strong criticism for its assessment of the Bengali nation. The editorial dismisses key figures from Bengal’s progressive history, such as Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Rammohan Roy, and Rabindranath Tagore, focusing instead on religious figures and ideological narratives rooted in Hindu nationalism.


The editorial begins by lamenting what it perceives as the loss of Bengali identity due to the influence of foreign ideologies and religious ‘heretics’. It highlights figures like Sri Chaitanya, Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda, and others, portraying them as beacons of nationalism and spirituality. However, it critiques modern Bengalis for disregarding the unifying messages of these figures in favor of foreign ideas. The editorial claims that Bengalis have focused on the love aspect of Sri Chaitanya’s teachings, neglecting his call for unity and protection of the nation, religion, and society.

The RSS article argues that this failure to uphold the principles of self-respect and national unity has led to the Bengali nation being condemned both within India and internationally. It insists that while the spiritual teachings of these revered figures have survived, the supposed lack of ideological clarity among Bengalis in West Bengal has caused the region to face criticism.

The editorial further asserts that despite challenges, the people of East Bengal have continued to fight for their religion, and it expresses optimism that the “confused” Hindus of West Bengal are beginning to rediscover their cultural and spiritual identity.

Critics of the editorial have expressed concerns that it represents a narrow view of Bengal’s identity, overlooking the rich legacy of social reformers and intellectuals who shaped the region’s progressive traditions. The omission of icons like Vidyasagar and Tagore, who championed rationalism, education, and social reform, has sparked backlash, with many arguing that the RSS perspective fails to capture the full complexity of Bengali cultural and political identity.
Politics, West Bengal

Tensions Escalate in Kanthi as Akhil Giri Threatens Political Rivals

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 15, 2025, Kolkata : Akhil Giri, a prominent leader of the Trinamool Congress, has once again found himself at the center of controversy after threatening political opponents in front of Kanthi police station on Tuesday. Known for his earlier remarks that have drawn national criticism—such as his controversial comment about the President’s appearance and his previous loss of a ministerial position due to threatening a female ranger—Giri’s latest outburst has once again ignited tensions in the region.


The incident occurred amid rising tensions surrounding the upcoming board of directors elections for the Kanthi cooperative. Two factions of the Trinamool Congress are currently embroiled in a bitter rivalry over control of the cooperative’s board. One faction is led by Giri, while the other is headed by Uttam Barik, the President of the Purba Medinipur Zilla Parishad.

On Tuesday morning, Giri arrived at the Kanthi police station on his motorcycle to observe the ongoing nomination process for the elections, which had begun the previous day. Upon his arrival, Barik’s supporters, who were gathered in front of the station, started chanting slogans accusing him of corruption, calling him a “thief.” In response, Giri dismounted from his motorcycle and reportedly pointed at Barik’s followers, warning, “I will charge a bomb, and you will understand.”

The remark, however, was met with mockery from Barik’s supporters, who laughed at Giri’s threat. As Giri mounted his motorcycle and began to leave, the rival faction resumed their chants, continuing to call him a “thief.” In a final attempt to assert his position, Giri reportedly told the crowd, “I will explain in 5 minutes.”

Despite the serious nature of Giri’s comments, no immediate action has been taken by the local police. Authorities at the Kanthi police station have not responded to requests for clarification regarding why no charges were filed against the Trinamool leader for his threatening remarks.

The situation in Kanthi remains tense as the election process continues, and local residents are on edge, watching closely to see whether this conflict will escalate further in the coming days.
Politics, West Bengal

BJP Launches ‘Chetepute’ Dinner Service for Elderly in North and Central Kolkata

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 14, 2025 – The political landscape of Kolkata is witnessing an increased focus on initiatives aimed at providing food for the underprivileged, with the BJP now entering the fray. Following the Left Front’s launch of ‘Shramjivi Canteen’ during the COVID-19 period to provide free food to the working class, and the state government’s introduction of the ‘Maa Canteen’ offering affordable meals for pedestrians, office workers, and footpath dwellers, the BJP is now taking a step forward with its own food service initiative.


Under the leadership of BJP Councilor Sajal Ghosh, the party is set to launch a dinner service called ‘Chetepute,’ priced at ten rupees. Scheduled to begin on February 8, the service will primarily target elderly couples who are financially disadvantaged and live in central and north Kolkata. Ghosh explained that the initiative aims to help the elderly, particularly those who live alone and are in need of assistance, by delivering meals to their homes at an affordable price.

Ghosh emphasized that the initiative, while providing essential support, is not a retaliation against any existing government schemes such as ‘Maa Canteen.’ He clarified that the BJP’s program is independent and focused solely on providing aid to the helpless elderly population. The service is set to be launched in an effort to support vulnerable individuals who may struggle with accessing food or resources on their own.

While the program is being launched with a noble intent, it also adds to the ongoing conversation around the various food assistance programs being introduced by different political parties. As ‘Chetepute’ rolls out in the coming weeks, all eyes will be on how it is received by the public and whether it successfully reaches those in need.
Politics, West Bengal

Senior Citizen Moves Calcutta High Court Over Unclear ‘Nabanna Chalo’ Protest Call

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 14, 2025 – A fresh call for the ‘Nabanna Chalo’ protest next Thursday has stirred significant controversy and confusion, with concerns over its origin and legality. The call for the protest, which is set to begin at Wellington Square before heading towards Nabanna, has sparked public interest, but crucial details remain unclear. A viral social media post has circulated, featuring a poster for the ‘Nabanna Chalo’ program, but it lacks any specific mention of the political party or individual behind the call for action.


The slogan for the protest is notably similar to one used in last year’s widespread demonstrations following the tragic murder and rape of Tilottama, when citizens of the state took to the streets demanding justice. In a parallel fashion, the current protest seems to be calling for “occupying the night,” although the identity of those behind it remains unknown. This ambiguity has raised suspicions, particularly since no formal permission for the event has been granted by the police.

In response to the uncertainty surrounding the protest, Bharatkumar Mishra, a 65-year-old senior citizen, has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Calcutta High Court. According to the petition, the program’s organizers have not disclosed their identities, nor have they sought the necessary permissions from the authorities, thus potentially violating the law. The petition also highlights concerns regarding the law and order implications of an unapproved public gathering.

Sources reveal that the protest is scheduled to begin at 1 PM on January 16, with the procession set to move from Wellington Square towards Nabanna. The slogan for the protest, “After occupying the night, today we will occupy the demand,” adds to the sense of urgency surrounding the event. As of now, the identity of the organizers remains a mystery, and the legal proceedings are expected to shed more light on this issue.

The Calcutta High Court is likely to hear the PIL shortly, and the case could have significant implications for how such protests are organized in the future, particularly when the details of the organizers and their intentions remain unclear.

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 14, 2025 – A fresh call for the ‘Nabanna Chalo’ protest next Thursday has stirred significant controversy and confusion, with concerns over its origin and legality. The call for the protest, which is set to begin at Wellington Square before heading towards Nabanna, has sparked public interest, but crucial details remain unclear. A viral social media post has circulated, featuring a poster for the ‘Nabanna Chalo’ program, but it lacks any specific mention of the political party or individual behind the call for action.


The slogan for the protest is notably similar to one used in last year’s widespread demonstrations following the tragic murder and rape of Tilottama, when citizens of the state took to the streets demanding justice. In a parallel fashion, the current protest seems to be calling for “occupying the night,” although the identity of those behind it remains unknown. This ambiguity has raised suspicions, particularly since no formal permission for the event has been granted by the police.

In response to the uncertainty surrounding the protest, Bharatkumar Mishra, a 65-year-old senior citizen, has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Calcutta High Court. According to the petition, the program’s organizers have not disclosed their identities, nor have they sought the necessary permissions from the authorities, thus potentially violating the law. The petition also highlights concerns regarding the law and order implications of an unapproved public gathering.

Sources reveal that the protest is scheduled to begin at 1 PM on January 16, with the procession set to move from Wellington Square towards Nabanna. The slogan for the protest, “After occupying the night, today we will occupy the demand,” adds to the sense of urgency surrounding the event. As of now, the identity of the organizers remains a mystery, and the legal proceedings are expected to shed more light on this issue.

The Calcutta High Court is likely to hear the PIL shortly, and the case could have significant implications for how such protests are organized in the future, particularly when the details of the organizers and their intentions remain unclear.
Politics, West Bengal

Calcutta High Court Grants Temporary Relief to Arjun Singh in Police Harassment Case

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 14, 2025 : Former Barrackpore MP Arjun Singh, who had previously alleged harassment by the police, has received temporary relief from the Calcutta High Court in a case filed against him by the Bhatpara police. Singh had repeatedly complained of police harassment, but in a surprising turn, the police filed a suo motu case accusing him of harassing officers at the Bhatpara police station.


Today, the Calcutta High Court issued a significant order, temporarily halting any strict action against Singh in connection with the police’s suo motu case. This decision has provided some relief to Singh, as legal observers note that it offers a brief reprieve before the next hearing. The court’s ruling has generated considerable attention, as it effectively shields Singh from immediate repercussions.

However, the case is far from over. The next hearing is scheduled for tomorrow, and all eyes will be on the court as it continues to deliberate on the matter. The outcome of that hearing could potentially shape the course of this ongoing legal battle between Singh and the police.
National, Politics, West Bengal

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Pushes for National Recognition of Gangasagar Mela Amidst Discontent Over Central Government Support

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 

Kolkata, January 14, 2025 : A growing contention has emerged between the Gangasagar Mela in West Bengal and the Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh over national recognition and government funding. This ongoing dispute intensified as West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday once again pressed for the Gangasagar Mela to be recognized as a national fair, pointing out the stark contrast in the central government’s treatment of both events.

Chief Minister Banerjee, who recently inspected the preparations for Gangasagar Mela, emphasized that over one crore pilgrims attend the event every year, yet the central government has not allocated the same financial support as it has for the Kumbh Mela, which receives funding running into thousands of crores. She has repeatedly demanded that the Centre recognize Gangasagar Mela as a national event, but according to her, these pleas have fallen on deaf ears.

Banerjee highlighted the difficulty of accessing Gangasagar Island for the Mela, contrasting it with the multiple routes available for pilgrims attending the Kumbh Mela. She criticized the Centre for not fulfilling its promise to build a bridge connecting Sagar Island to the mainland, a project that she says would ease the burden on pilgrims. Despite waiting for years, Banerjee noted that no progress had been made by the central government, and as a result, her administration has decided to proceed with the construction of the bridge on its own. She indicated that the project, estimated to cost around Rs 1,500 crore, would take three to four years to complete and emphasized that a rushed approach could jeopardize the structure’s safety.

In addition to the bridge issue, the Chief Minister revealed that her government has been actively improving the infrastructure surrounding the Gangasagar Mela, including the construction of a helipad and other essential facilities. She also suggested a solution to address the ongoing coastal erosion near the Kapil Muni Ashram, urging the senior priest of the ashram to allocate part of the funds they receive to build a protective concrete structure to prevent the sea from advancing further towards the temple.

Banerjee also shared plans for further administrative improvements in the region, including the creation of separate sub-divisions for areas like Gosaba, Patharpratima, Sandeshkhali, and Hingalganj. These areas, surrounded by water, face unique challenges, and the Chief Minister believes that these administrative changes will help residents access government services more efficiently.

The controversy surrounding the Gangasagar Mela and its lack of recognition continues to highlight the tensions between the state and central governments, with Mamata Banerjee urging the Centre to address the inequities and fulfill its promises to West Bengal. 
West Bengal

Belur Math Celebrates Swami Vivekananda’s 163rd Birth Anniversary with Devotion and Grandeur

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Baby Chakravarti, KalimNews, January 12, 2025  : Belur Math came alive with vibrant celebrations on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda’s 163rd birth anniversary and the 41st National Youth Day. Devotees began gathering at the spiritual hub from the early hours of the morning to participate in the sacred observances and pay homage to the revered spiritual leader.

The day commenced at 5 am with Mangalarati at the Swami Vivekananda temple, marking the start of a series of devotional activities. Students from various schools, members of clubs, and branch organizations associated with Belur Math participated enthusiastically, arriving via a morning ferry. They carried Swamiji’s portrait in a colorful procession, singing devotional songs dedicated to Swamiji and Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. The devotees walked around the temple and offered their prayers, immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere.

A temporary pavilion to the left of the main temple hosted an array of religious and cultural programs dedicated to Swamiji. The schedule included Vedic readings, bhajans, hymns, devotional songs, and readings from Swami Vivekananda’s biography. A religious assembly at 3 pm served as a highlight of the celebrations. The day’s events were set to conclude with an evening meal, prepared with care for all attendees.

To accommodate the large influx of devotees, prasad was thoughtfully arranged in packets, ensuring everyone partook in the blessings of the occasion.

Belur Math was a hub of devotion, activity, and celebration throughout the day, reflecting the enduring legacy of Swami Vivekananda and his inspirational teachings. The vibrant energy of the devotees, combined with the spiritual fervor, made the occasion a memorable tribute to one of India’s greatest visionaries.