All posts by Kalimpong News

Politics, West Bengal

Rituparna Sengupta Responds to Political Offers Amid Rising Speculation

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Hooghly: As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections draw nearer, several stars have made their foray into politics, following in the footsteps of Hooghly MLA Rachana Banerjee, who recently announced her decision to join the political sphere in response to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s call. However, renowned Bengali actress Rituparna Sengupta, despite her longstanding friendship with Mamata Banerjee, has not yet stepped into the political arena, even though offers have reportedly come her way.


Rituparna, a beloved figure in the Bengali film industry, was recently present at the Chunchura Festival, an event organized by Chunchura Trinamool MLA Asit Majumdar. When questioned by journalists about the possibility of her entering politics, Rituparna maintained that she has always distanced herself from political affairs. “I don’t understand anything about this profession. I am an artist. I want to remain an artist,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to her craft.

However, when asked what she would do if invited personally by Mamata Banerjee to join politics, Rituparna’s response was diplomatic. “I will give that answer to the Chief Minister,” she stated, leaving the door open to future possibilities but making it clear that her primary focus remains on her career as an actress.

Rituparna, who ruled the Bengali film industry for years with numerous hit films, continues to captivate audiences with her performances. She recently took the stage at the festival to sing a song from her popular movie Ayoob, which she starred in alongside actor Prosenjit, delighting the audience with her nostalgic performance. Despite the political speculation surrounding her, Rituparna’s heart appears to remain firmly with the arts.
National, Politics

Nitish Kumar’s Party Ends Alliance with BJP in Manipur Amid Rising Tensions

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Delhi: The rift between Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has deepened with the sudden withdrawal of JD(U) support from the N Biren Singh-led BJP government in Manipur. The unexpected move has triggered widespread speculation, particularly as the northeastern state has been grappling with months of communal violence.


JD(U) has made it clear that its decision to sever ties with the BJP government in Manipur is aimed at exerting pressure on the ruling party amid the ongoing unrest. Kesh Biren Singh, the JD(U) state president in Manipur, formally communicated the party’s decision to the Governor, as well as to Chief Minister N Biren Singh and the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly. While the JD(U) has pledged to continue supporting the BJP-led government in the state, the announcement signifies a shift in its political alignment.

This move follows the recent withdrawal of support by another key ally in the NDA coalition, the Kuki People’s Alliance (KPA), which also pulled out from backing the BJP government in Manipur. Despite these developments, the N Biren Singh government is not immediately at risk of collapse, as the BJP still holds a substantial majority in the 60-seat Manipur Assembly with 37 MLAs. Additionally, it enjoys the support of the Naga People’s Front and three independent legislators.

Nevertheless, the growing discontent within the coalition could indicate future instability, especially if opposition parties push for a no-confidence motion. For now, however, the BJP government in Manipur remains intact but under increasing pressure.
National, Politics

Tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on His 128th Birth Anniversary Sparks Controversy

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Kolkata: The nation paid heartfelt tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his 128th birth anniversary on Thursday, with the central government observing the day as ‘Parakram Diwas’. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, sharing a message on his official social media handle, X, to honor the legacy of the iconic freedom fighter. He wrote, “Today, on Parakram Diwas, I pay tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His contribution to India’s freedom movement was unparalleled. He is a symbol of courage and determination. His ideals inspire us to build the India that Netaji dreamed of one day.” Along with this message, a video was shared where the Prime Minister was seen paying his respects by offering flowers at the foot of Netaji’s statue.

However, the day also saw a controversy surrounding Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s tribute. Rahul Gandhi shared his heartfelt respects for Netaji, calling him “the great revolutionary, founder of Azad Hind Fauj,” and commended his leadership, courage, and struggle for social justice. Gandhi’s post, however, became a point of contention when he included a picture that mentioned Netaji’s death date as August 18, 1945—this date has been surrounded by uncertainty and speculation for years. Netaji’s death in a plane crash in Taihoku remains a subject of debate, with several investigative committees being formed over time, but no definitive conclusions reached.

The mention of the death date in Rahul Gandhi’s post has led to a wave of criticism, as many believe that such a reference perpetuates the ongoing speculation about Netaji’s demise. While Gandhi’s tribute was intended to honor Netaji’s memory, the mention of the date, which remains unconfirmed, drew backlash, with several questioning the accuracy and appropriateness of the post in light of ongoing debates.

Politics, West Bengal

Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee Raises Questions on Netaji’s Disappearance on His Birth Anniversary

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Kolkata : On the occasion of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep concern over the continued mystery surrounding the leader’s disappearance. During a meeting in Kalchini, Banerjee paid tribute to Netaji and questioned the lack of transparency regarding his fate.


Banerjee suggested that Netaji’s disappearance may have been the result of a conspiracy, highlighting that the state had released 64 files related to the issue, but the Centre has yet to make its own secret files public. “Why is the Centre withholding these crucial documents?” she asked, underlining the need for full disclosure to unravel the truth behind Netaji’s disappearance.

The Chief Minister also reflected on the values Netaji espoused, emphasizing his message of unity and inclusion across religious lines. “Netaji taught us to take all religions together, to think about everyone. The one who thinks about everyone, who takes everyone together, fought so much for this cause. Where did he disappear? I know his birthday, but I do not know his death date. It’s sad to think that I still don’t know what happened to him,” Banerjee remarked.

In her address, Banerjee reiterated her criticism of the central government, particularly under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, for failing to release important files, citing national security and foreign policy as reasons for withholding the information.
Crime, National, West Bengal

Supreme Court Postpones RG Kar Case Hearing by a Week

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Baby Chakravarti, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has deferred the hearing of the RG Kar case by one week. The division bench, consisting of Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Justice KV Vishwanathan, and Justice Sanjay Kumar, announced on Wednesday that the case will now be heard on January 29, 2025, at 2 PM. The postponement follows a request from Abhaya’s parents to present their views on the matter anew.


Originally scheduled for January 23, the case was listed as item number 42 before the division bench of the Chief Justice. However, the court decided to reschedule the hearing. The RG Kar case has gained significant attention since the Supreme Court took up the matter suo motu in December last year, initially stating that hearings would resume in the third week of June.

Adding to the complexity of the case, the lower court recently sentenced Sanjay Roy, the convict in the RG Kar case, to life imprisonment. This decision has sparked debate, with critics questioning why the court did not classify the crime as “rarest of the rare.” Neither side has expressed satisfaction with the verdict.

Following the lower court’s ruling, the state government has appealed to the High Court, seeking the death penalty for Sanjay Roy. The High Court is set to hear this appeal on Monday, January 27, 2025.

The RG Kar case continues to generate widespread public interest, with the legal proceedings in both the Supreme Court and the High Court anticipated to shape the future discourse around justice and sentencing in such cases.
National

8 Dead, 10 Injured in Tragic Accident on Karnataka’s National Highway

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 23, 2025 :  Eight lives were lost, and 10 others sustained injuries in a devastating accident on National Highway 63 in Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, on Wednesday morning. A fruit-laden truck veered off the road and plunged approximately 50 feet due to a failed overtaking maneuver and the absence of a guard rail.


The truck, carrying 30 passengers, was en route to Ellapura when the driver lost control while attempting to overtake a car. According to police sources, the accident resulted in eight fatalities on the spot. The injured, some in critical condition, were rescued by local residents and police personnel and rushed to KIMS Hospital in Hubballi for urgent medical attention.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the accident, focusing on the truck’s condition, road infrastructure, and possible driver negligence. The tragedy underscores the pressing need for improved road safety measures, including the installation of guard rails along dangerous stretches of the highway.
West Bengal

Passengers Face Disruption as Metro Services Cancelled Due to Mechanical Glitch

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Kolkata: Metro passengers in Kolkata faced significant inconvenience on Wednesday afternoon as three consecutive metro services were cancelled following a mechanical glitch. The incident caused chaos at Dum Dum station, leading to injuries for one passenger during a rush to board a train.


According to Kolkata Metro Rail sources, the issue arose at 12:40 PM when a train traveling from Dakshineswar to Kabi Subhash encountered a mechanical failure and failed to start. Passengers were evacuated, and the malfunctioning rake was removed from the line. Services resumed after a brief interval, with the next train running within ten minutes.

Despite efforts to normalize operations, the cancellation of three trains created a bottleneck, leading to crowding and frustration among passengers. Although additional metro services were introduced to manage the situation, the large crowd remained difficult to control.

During the rush, Putul De, a Belgharia resident, fell and injured her leg as she was pushed by other passengers while attempting to board a metro at Dum Dum station. Other passengers reported difficulty boarding due to the commotion.

While some passengers voiced concerns about overcrowding and poor crowd management, a metro official refuted claims of chaos, stating, “There was no rush among the passengers. We are constantly monitoring the CCTV cameras.”

The incident has reignited discussions on the importance of efficient metro services and crowd management to ensure passenger safety, particularly during peak hours or unforeseen disruptions.
National, West Bengal

Vishnu Idol from Post-Gupta Era Unearthed at Hooghly School

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Baby Chakravarti, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Kolkata: A remarkable sandstone idol of Vishnu, believed to be from the post-Gupta era, has been discovered at Bandel Vikramnagar Harnath Nirada Sudandi Ghosh High School in Hooghly. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has confirmed its immense historical value and is conducting further research to determine its precise origins.


The discovery occurred on January 17 during soil excavation for the construction of a bicycle stand on the school premises. The unearthed soil was deposited in a corner of the school field. It was there that two ninth-grade students, Jyoti Mondal and Mohini Sarkar, stumbled upon the statue while playing. Recognizing its uniqueness, they promptly reported it to Bhulore teacher Sangamitra Palit and English teacher Karuna Chatterjee, who immediately understood its historical significance.

Saikat Das, the school’s headmaster, expressed pride in the discovery, emphasizing its educational and cultural importance. Biswarup Dey, the school’s history teacher with a background in archaeology, conducted initial research and suggested the artifact could belong to the Gupta era. Following his advice, the school authorities contacted the ASI, providing photographs of the artifact for analysis. The ASI confirmed its significant historical value and advised stringent security measures to prevent theft, especially as the school had experienced theft incidents in the past.


The idol was secured in a safe vault until today when Assistant Superintendent of Archaeology (Kolkata Circle) Dr. Sanjay Panda and ASI official Pradeep Kar Harnath visited the school. They conducted a detailed examination of the statue and surveyed the site of its discovery.

Preliminary analysis suggests the idol, depicting a standing figure of Vishnu, may date back approximately a thousand years. The archaeologists noted that the Ganges once flowed through this region, and similar statues have been uncovered in the surrounding 24 Parganas area. The statue will now be transported for further analysis and comparison to determine its exact period and context.

The discovery has created excitement among students and teachers alike, adding a fascinating chapter to the school’s history. The incident highlights the rich cultural and historical heritage embedded in the region’s soil, waiting to be unearthed and preserved.
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.