Category Archives: International

International, National

Bangladesh Supreme Court Bans 50 Judges from Coming to India for Training

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Delhi, January 7, 2025: In a significant development, the Supreme Court of Bangladesh has issued a ban on the planned visit of 50 Bangladeshi judges to India for judicial training. This move follows a recent decision by the country’s Law Ministry, which had initially approved the participation of these judges in a training program at the National Judicial Academy and State Judicial Academy in Bhopal, India. The decision was announced in a notification signed by Dr. Abul Hasanat, Deputy Secretary of the Law and Justice Department, on Sunday.


According to reports, the judges affected by this ban included Assistant Judges, Senior Assistant Judges, Joint District and Sessions Judges, Additional District and Sessions Judges, and District and Sessions Judges, along with officers of equivalent rank. These judicial officers were scheduled to attend the training from February 10 to 20, 2025. However, the Supreme Court’s intervention has led to the abrupt cancellation of the trip, disrupting the plans for the training program.

The training program in India was designed to offer advanced judicial training and capacity-building opportunities for the participants. The initial approval by the Law Ministry had been part of an ongoing effort to enhance the professional skills of lower-court judges in Bangladesh.

While the official reasons for the cancellation remain unclear, diplomatic circles suggest that the move may be linked to broader political considerations. Speculation is rife that the pro-Pakistan BNP leadership, which is reportedly exerting influence over the country’s judicial system, may have played a role in halting the judges’ trip. The cancellation of the training program follows an earlier controversy involving the incarceration of Chinmoy Maharaj, a prominent figure in Bangladesh, who has been jailed without trial.

The abrupt decision has raised concerns within diplomatic and legal circles, with some questioning the independence of the judiciary and the influence of political forces in Bangladesh’s legal system.

While the official cancellation came at the last minute, it is expected to have far-reaching implications, particularly in terms of judicial cooperation between India and Bangladesh, which had been strengthening in recent years.
International, National

PM Modi Condemns Terrorist Attack in New Orleans, Expresses Solidarity with Victims

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 3, 2025, Delhi:  Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the terrorist attack in New Orleans on Thursday, which claimed the lives of at least 15 people. Speaking in response to the tragedy, PM Modi called the attack an “act of cowardice” and offered heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families. “We strongly condemn the cowardly terrorist attack in New Orleans. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families,” the Prime Minister said in a statement.


The New Orleans attack came just hours after another violent incident in Las Vegas, where a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside the Trump International Hotel, resulting in one death and seven injuries. The FBI has confirmed that the explosion was terrorism-related, with the suspect identified as Shamsud Din Jabbar, who allegedly had ties to ISIS. Investigators also revealed that the vehicle used in the attack had been rented through a platform called Turo and contained multiple suspected explosive devices.

The series of events has sparked widespread concern over security threats and raised questions about the increasing risk of coordinated terrorist activities. Authorities are continuing their investigations into both incidents, as the nation grapples with the fallout from these attacks.
International, Politics, West Bengal

Shuvendu Adhikari Makes Explosive Remarks on Bangladesh’s Political Tensions Amid Growing Controversy Kolkata, December 29

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 29, 2024, Kolkata :  As political tensions between the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the interim government intensify, BJP leaders, including Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal’s Legislative Assembly, Shuvendu Adhikari, have been vocal in their criticism. The situation in Bangladesh remains precarious, with rising anti-India sentiment and political maneuvering threatening to destabilize the region.


Shuvendu Adhikari, a key BJP figure, recently made explosive comments on the current political crisis in Bangladesh, where the BNP, led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and the ruling Awami League are locked in a bitter power struggle. Adhikari emphasized that the legitimate Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, would rightfully take charge of Bangladesh, asserting, “Democracy, secularism, constitution, and the rights of all will guide the future of Bangladesh, as envisioned by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.”

However, the BJP leader also expressed deep concern over the current state of affairs, highlighting the growing role of militancy and fundamentalism in the country’s politics. He pointed to a faction of the opposition who, according to him, are trying to undermine Bangladesh’s sovereignty. “Those who supported Pakistan in 1971, for whom 3 million Bengalis were martyred, for whom thousands of Indian soldiers gave their lives, are now attempting to illegally run the country under the guise of a student movement. This is nothing but an attempt to bring militancy and fundamentalism into power,” Adhikari said.

Adhikari’s comments come at a time when Sheikh Hasina, currently visiting India, faces rising pressure to return to Bangladesh amidst escalating tensions. The interim government in Dhaka is calling for her return, but the political landscape is fraught with uncertainty. Complicating matters further, there have been reports of “letter bombs” being sent to various political figures, raising fears of a possible escalation in violence.

India has also expressed concerns over the protection of religious minorities in Bangladesh, particularly as tensions between different factions continue to mount. Additionally, the case of Chinmoy Krishna, a political prisoner in Bangladesh, remains unresolved, with his bail complications continuing to make headlines.

Adhikari’s remarks reflect the broader political discourse in India, where the BJP has consistently raised concerns about the political instability in neighboring Bangladesh and its potential impact on regional security. The volatile situation in Bangladesh continues to be a source of concern for India, especially with the ongoing tension between India and certain factions in Bangladesh.

As the political crisis unfolds in Bangladesh, the future of the country’s democracy and its relationship with India remains uncertain, with leaders from both sides closely monitoring developments.
International, Politics, West Bengal

India-Bangladesh Relations Tense Amid Protests, But Shantanu Thakur’s Metro Rail Announcement Sparks Debate

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 22, 2024: Tensions in Indo-Bangladesh relations have escalated in recent weeks, with protests erupting across various parts of India over alleged attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. As the situation grows increasingly sensitive, certain medical centers in India have announced their decision to halt medical services for Bangladeshi patients, a move reportedly linked to the rising political tensions. However, despite these protests, the Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, has made a surprising announcement that is stirring discussions in political and public circles. Thakur revealed plans for a metro rail connection from the Bangladesh border to Kolkata, underlining India’s commitment to maintaining bilateral ties with Bangladesh.


The announcement came during an event last Friday, when Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Siliguri for the Raising Day celebrations of the Armed Border Force (SSB). At the event, Shah inaugurated a new Rs 30 crore facility for BSF personnel at Petrolfall. In his speech, Minister Shantanu Thakur emphasized that Petrapol, a town near the Bangladesh border, could emerge as a major border city in the future. He highlighted the need for better connectivity, stating that plans for a metro line between Kolkata and Petrapol are in progress, aiming to facilitate the large number of Bangladeshis who travel to Kolkata for medical treatment. “Millions of people from Bangladesh come to Kolkata for treatment, and we need to improve services to cater to this demand,” Thakur said.

However, Thakur’s remarks have stirred controversy, particularly in light of the recent actions by certain medical facilities in India, which have ceased treating Bangladeshi patients amid growing political friction. While the BJP and certain Hindutva groups have rallied against the treatment of Bangladeshi nationals, framing it as a protest against alleged religious persecution of minorities in Bangladesh, Thakur’s comments suggest a more diplomatic stance. His call for the metro rail project reflects India’s desire to maintain constructive ties with Bangladesh, despite the current political tensions.

Thakur also used the platform to criticize the current state of affairs in Bangladesh. He remarked that Bangladesh, once an economically strong country in South Asia, has been weakened by rising fundamentalist activities. “Bangladesh is no longer the economic powerhouse it once was,” Thakur said, adding that India’s strength as the third-largest military power and the fifth-largest economy in the world should not be underestimated. However, he emphasized that India has always been a friend to Bangladesh and that the bilateral relationship would continue, provided Bangladesh extends the hand of friendship.

These comments, particularly in the context of the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh, have drawn mixed reactions. Many on social media have criticized the apparent contradiction between India’s hardline stance and its diplomatic overtures. One user tweeted, “India has really gone crazy. On one hand, they are saying they will cut ties with Bangladesh, and on the other, they’re planning a metro rail to the Bangladesh border. This proves India will be immobilized if it doesn’t maintain relations with Bangladesh.”

The remarks from Thakur, coupled with the protests and political developments in both countries, have led to intense debate about India’s foreign policy towards Bangladesh. While some view Thakur’s comments as part of a larger political strategy, others see them as indicative of a broader confusion in the government’s approach to its neighbor.

As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the Indian government will balance the demands of domestic politics with its foreign policy objectives, particularly in relation to Bangladesh.
International, National

India Extends Support to Bangladesh with 468 Tons of Potatoes Amid Soaring Prices

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, Kolkata, December 15, 2024 : In a significant gesture of bilateral support, India has exported 468 metric tons of potatoes to Bangladesh to help mitigate the soaring prices in the neighboring country. As food costs escalate in Bangladesh, especially for essential items like potatoes, India has stepped in once again to assist its eastern neighbor.


The consignment, which arrived by freight train, reached the Benapole Land Port Railway Station in Jessore, Bangladesh. According to Bangladeshi media reports, including Bangla Tribune, the relevant authorities in Bangladesh are expected to begin unloading the shipment starting Saturday. The shipment consists of 9,460 bags of potatoes, weighing a total of 468,000 kg, and was sent from Malda, West Bengal, by Tata Traders, an importing company based in Chapainawabganj, Rajshahi.

The shipment, valued at approximately 1,07,640 US dollars, comes at a crucial time when food prices in Bangladesh have been climbing sharply, putting immense pressure on the daily lives of the general population. The rising cost of essential commodities, including potatoes, has sparked widespread unrest and concern, especially among the economically disadvantaged groups.

While the situation is increasingly tense, with growing discontent among the people, the arrival of the potato shipment from India has provided some immediate relief. The import of potatoes is seen as a necessary step to stabilize the market and address the food security concerns of Bangladesh’s population, particularly in rural areas where prices have been prohibitive.

However, in the midst of this economic crisis, certain extremist factions within Bangladesh have seized the opportunity to stoke anti-India sentiments. These groups have attempted to divert public attention from the pressing economic issues by raising political objections against India. Despite these efforts, the focus for most citizens remains on securing affordable food supplies in the face of soaring prices.

The arrival of this large shipment is a testament to the strong trade relations between India and Bangladesh, underscoring India’s role as a crucial partner in supporting its neighbor during times of economic hardship. The timely supply of essential goods like potatoes is expected to alleviate some of the pressure on the Bangladeshi market and provide relief to the country’s struggling consumers.
International, Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Hits Back at Bangladeshi Leader’s Occupation Remarks

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 9, 2024, Kolkata : In a firm rebuttal, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addressed inflammatory remarks by Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Joint General Secretary of Bangladesh’s BNP party, in the Assembly on Monday. Rizvi’s provocative statement about occupying Bengal, Bihar, and Odisha amid allegations of Hindu persecution in Bangladesh had drawn sharp criticism across the political spectrum.


Rizvi’s remarks, claiming a “just right” over these regions as part of “our Nawab’s area,” sparked outrage. Responding with a mix of humor and resolve, Banerjee said, “Those who claim they will occupy Bengal-Bihar-Odisha, let them keep dreaming. They neither have the power nor the capability. If they think we will sit idly, they are mistaken. We are vigilant and know how to protect our people.” She also questioned the audacity of such claims, remarking, “Where do they get the courage to dream so extravagantly?”

The comments further intensified the political discourse in the state. BJP Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari responded strongly during the same Assembly session, emphasizing that such matters fall under the purview of the central government. Referring to India’s military preparedness, including the Rafale fighter jets, Adhikari subtly hinted at India’s ability to defend its sovereignty.

This exchange highlights the growing tension surrounding cross-border relations, with leaders from both sides addressing public concerns and emphasizing national and regional security. Banerjee’s response underscores her commitment to safeguarding Bengal’s interests, while the BJP continues to stress the central government’s role in addressing bilateral issues with Bangladesh.
International, West Bengal

Hindu Mahasabha Protests in Kolkata Against Bangladesh’s Treatment of Minorities, Boycotts Bangladeshi Products

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 6, 2024, Kolkata  :  

In a strongly worded protest against recent incidents in Bangladesh, the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, one of India’s oldest political organizations, has demanded a social boycott of Bangladeshi nationals seeking medical treatment in India. The protest, led by the State President Dr. Chandrachud Goswami, took place in various parts of Kolkata today, where protesters engaged in symbolic acts of defiance, including buying Bangladeshi products from local shops, spreading them across streets, burning them, and feeding them to dogs. The protest was aimed at sending a powerful message condemning the alleged mistreatment of Hindus and moderate Muslims in Bangladesh, as well as the desecration of the Indian national flag in the neighboring country.

The Mahasabha’s protest, which unfolded in areas like Maniktala More, Girish Park Crossing, and near the Calcutta High Court, also involved the distribution of leaflets urging the public to boycott all Bangladeshi products and promote indigenous goods. Dr. Goswami, in his statement, criticized the Bangladesh government’s actions, particularly highlighting the killing of Hindus and moderate Muslims, wrongful arrests, and the recent attacks on activists like Chinmayakrishna Prabhu. He also expressed outrage over the reported deaths of two lawyers in Bangladesh who supported Prabhu.

“The Indian soldiers’ sacrifice is what made Bangladesh an independent nation. Their flag, with the rising sun in dark red, is symbolic of the blood shed by our soldiers. Bangladesh must understand that there is no forgiveness for such atrocities. While we are not generalizing the intentions of all Bangladeshis who come here for treatment, we refuse to remain passive in the face of these heinous crimes,” Dr. Goswami said during the protest.

The protest was framed as a message not only against Bangladesh’s alleged barbaric acts but also against the inaction from the international community. Goswami further emphasized that while India’s doors are open for medical assistance, it is not India’s responsibility to differentiate between moderate Muslims and terrorist fundamentalists seeking treatment. He called upon the central government to consider sending peacekeepers to Bangladesh if the atrocities do not stop immediately, echoing the appeal made by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Pragya Bharti, the convener of the Hindu Mahasabha’s women’s wing, added her voice to the protest, stating, “They killed our brothers, so we will punish them for their sins by killing them with rice.” Bharti reaffirmed the Mahasabha’s commitment to boycotting Bangladeshi products and emphasizing local handicrafts and cottage industries, as a show of solidarity with the victims of violence in Bangladesh. Anamika Mondal, the Mahasabha’s office secretary, condemned the abuse of women and children in Bangladesh, calling it a “shame for all of humanity.”

Legal advisor Advocate Dinesh Pani, speaking on behalf of the Mahasabha’s legal cell, stated that the organization is preparing to file a case against the Bangladesh government in the International Court of Justice, citing violations of human rights and the breakdown of legal systems in the country. “The brutality being carried out in Bangladesh is beyond the scope of even medieval barbarism,” he remarked.

The protest in Kolkata was marked by participation from several key members of the Hindu Mahasabha, including Anamika Mondal, Pragya Bharti, Sayak Bose, Shashi Agarwal, Sarita Sanganeria, and Advocate Dinesh Pani, who led various actions across the city. The Mahasabha’s call for a boycott of Bangladeshi products and its focus on promoting indigenous goods has sparked considerable debate on social media and within political circles, raising questions about the broader impact of the protest on India-Bangladesh relations and on the local economy.

As the protest concluded, Dr. Goswami reiterated his demand for action, asserting that the government of Bangladesh must be held accountable for its treatment of minorities and its alleged crimes against humanity. The Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, with this protest, aims to draw global attention to what it calls the ongoing oppression in Bangladesh and the failure of the international community to act decisively.
Economy, International, National

India Poised to Benefit from Shifting Global Dynamics: NITI Aayog Members Suggest Strategic Opportunities Amid Global Trade Uncertainty

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 5, 2024, Kolkata:  India stands at the threshold of a unique opportunity to expand its global market share, particularly in the textile industry, as the international trade landscape faces turbulence. A senior member of the NITI Aayog expressed this view during the quarterly report release ceremony, where global shifts, including U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s potential tariff impositions and political unrest in neighboring Bangladesh, were discussed.


In a statement likely to reshape India’s export strategies, NITI Aayog officials reflected on Trump’s warning regarding the imposition of tariffs on China and other countries. While the proposed tariffs may disrupt global trade flows, they also present an opportunity for India to ramp up its exports and strengthen its position in the international market.

“Trump’s threats to impose tariffs will undoubtedly have significant consequences on world trade,” said the CEO of NITI Aayog. “However, for India, this could be a blessing in disguise, providing an opening to diversify and increase exports, particularly to markets affected by global trade shifts.”

In addition to the trade uncertainties stemming from U.S. policies, NITI Aayog members highlighted the deteriorating political and economic situation in Bangladesh as another potential avenue for India to gain a competitive edge. The country has faced growing internal strife, including protests, movements, and ongoing violence against the Hindu minority, which have disrupted the local textile industry—one of Bangladesh’s key economic pillars.

“Bangladesh’s textile industry, which plays a crucial role in its economy, has suffered due to the ongoing political unrest,” said Prabhakar Shau, Senior Program Director at NITI Aayog. “This presents India with a strategic opportunity to increase its market share by enhancing exports to Bangladesh, particularly in the textile sector. With the industry facing stagnation, India can benefit significantly by stepping in to fill the gap.”

Shau emphasized that India has the infrastructure, expertise, and production capacity to meet the demand that Bangladesh is no longer able to fulfill efficiently due to its internal challenges. As a result, India could emerge as the preferred supplier for textile goods in the region.

Moreover, a senior NITI Aayog official remarked that the current political and economic climate in Bangladesh does not create a favorable environment for foreign investments, making it even more crucial for India to capitalize on this window of opportunity. “Countries are increasingly reluctant to invest in Bangladesh due to the instability, which further complicates trade relations,” the official added.

In light of these developments, NITI Aayog officials have urged the Indian government to focus on bolstering exports, particularly in sectors where global shifts present clear advantages. The textile industry, in particular, is seen as a prime sector for this strategic push, given its significance both regionally and globally.

With global trade uncertainties mounting, India’s policymakers see this as a critical juncture to strengthen the nation’s position on the world stage, leveraging both international political dynamics and regional economic disruptions to secure long-term growth.
International, Politics

Who is South Korean leader who tried to impose martial law

Leave a comment

PTI, December 05, 2024, Seoul : Decades of achievement led Yoon Suk Yeol to the pinnacle of political power in South Korea, but his legacy may now boil down to a single, baffling decision to send out troops under martial law over vague claims that one of Asia’s leading democracies was under threat.

    
Was there any clue in Yoon’s background that this was coming?

Yoon, a staunch conservative and longtime prosecutor, went from political novice to president of South Korea in 2022, ending five years of liberal rule that saw failed efforts to resolve the North Korean nuclear crisis and a slackening economy.

But his time in office has been marked by near-constant friction with an opposition-controlled parliament, threats of annihilation from North Korea and a series of scandals involving him and and his wife. Observers say he has long taken criticism personally and relies the advice of hardcore loyalists, and that he makes impulsive decisions.

As he faces impeachment by parliament, no one thing explains his attempt to shut down the mechanisms of a democratic nation over his still unexplained claim that “anti-state” actors were acting under the influence of North Korea.

But there are strands in Yoon’s background, and especially in the intense acrimony with the liberal opposition and his hardline standoff with North Korea, that help illuminate what could turn out to be the defining moment of his presidency.
    

A turbulent rise to top prosecutor

Despite his three years as president, Yoon’s career has been overwhelmingly about the law, not politics.

Yoon, 63, was born in Seoul to two professors, and went to prestigious Seoul National University, where he studied law.

A defining moment, according to Yoon, happened in 1980 when he played the role of a judge in a mock trial of then-dictator Chun Doo-hwan, who had staged a military coup the previous year, and sentenced him to life imprisonment.

In the aftermath, Yoon had to flee to the countryside as Chun’s military extended martial law and placed troops and armoured vehicles at the university.

Yoon returned to the capital and eventually began a career as a state prosecutor that would last nearly three decades, building an image as strong-minded and uncompromising.
    

Prone to confrontation

But he has also faced criticism that his personality was unsuited to high-level leadership.

“President Yoon isn’t well-prepared, and he does things off the cuff,” Choi Jin, director of the Seoul-based Institute of Presidential Leadership, said. “He also tends to express his emotions too directly. The things that he likes and dislikes are easy to see, and he tends to follow the advice of a small group of his own people, not the majority of people.”

During a parliament audit in 2013, Yoon, then a senior prosecutor, said he was under pressure from his boss, who said he opposed Yoon’s investigation into an allegation that the country’s spy agency had conducted an illicit online campaign to help conservative President Park Geun-hye win the previous year’s election.

At the time, he famously said, “I’m not loyal to (high-level) people.”

He was demoted, but after Park’s government was toppled over a separate corruption scandal in 2017, then President Moon Jae-in made Yoon head of a Seoul prosecution office, which investigated Park and other conservative leaders. Moon later named Yoon the nation’s top prosecutor.
    

A neophyte in politics

Yoon only joined party politics about a year before he won the presidency, abandoning the liberal Moon after an impasse over a probe of Moon’s allies. Moon’s supporters said he was trying to thwart Moon’s prosecution reforms and elevate his own political standing.

The 2022 presidential race was Yoon’s first election campaign.

Yoon beat his rival, liberal firebrand Lee Jae-myung, by less than 1 percentage point in South Korea’s most closely fought presidential election.

Their campaign was one of the nastiest in recent memory.

Yoon compared Lee’s party to “Hitler” and “Mussolini.” Lee’s allies called Yoon “a beast” and “dictator” and derided his wife’s alleged plastic surgery.
    

Domestic political strife

Yoon’s time as president has been dominated by frustration and acrimony, much stemming from his narrow victory and his party’s failure to win control of parliament.

The liberal opposition’s control of parliament will continue until he leaves office in 2027 after resounding parliamentary election wins earlier this year.

Gridlock in parliament has led to an increasingly tense political discourse.

When Yoon declared the state of emergency, he said a goal was to eliminate “shameless North Korea followers and anti-state forces” that he said were plotting rebellion, in an apparent reference to the opposition Democratic Party.

During Tuesday’s martial law announcement, Yoon highlighted his rivals’ repeated attempts to impeach his top officials and their bid to curtail key parts of next year’s budget bill as major reasons for his declaration.

Claims of corruption have also battered his approval ratings.

Last month, Yoon denied wrongdoing in an influence-peddling scandal involving him and his wife. Spy camera footage in a separate scandal also purportedly shows the first lady, Kim Keon Hee, accepting a luxury bag as a gift from a pastor.

Choi said he thinks Yoon likely planned the “clumsy martial law” edict to divert public attention away from the scandals.

“Whether he will be politically dead or not, he tried to massively shake up the political world,” Choi said. “But he failed. He likely … believed there was no other option.”
    

North Korea has lashed out at his hard line

If political squabbles and scandal have set the tenor of Yoon’s domestic presidency, its foreign policy has been characterized by a bitter standoff with North Korea.

Yoon early on in his presidency promised “an audacious plan” to improve the North’s economy if it abandoned its nuclear weapons.

But things turned sour quickly, as North Korea ramped up its weapons tests and threats to attack the South. By last year North Korea was calling Yoon “a guy with a trash-like brain” and “a diplomatic idiot.”

And for months now, North Korea has taken that trash theme literally, sending thousands of balloons filled with garbage over the border, including some that made it to the presidential compound in Seoul at least twice.

Yoon’s mention of North Korea as a domestic destabilizing force reminded some of an earlier South Korea, which until the late 1980s was ruled by a series of strongmen who repeatedly invoked the threat from the North to justify effort to control domestic dissidents and political opponents.
International, West Bengal

Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha Protests Attacks on Minorities in Bangladesh, Calls for Boycott of Bangladeshis in India

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 3, 2024, Kolkata : In a bold move following the recent turmoil in Bangladesh, the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, one of India’s oldest political parties, has expressed deep discontent with the ongoing violence against minority Hindus and moderate Muslims in Bangladesh. Led by state president Dr. Chandrachud Goswami, a delegation from the Mahasabha submitted a formal deputation to the Bangladesh High Commission, condemning the barbaric attacks by jihadi terrorists and the trampling of the Indian flag in the neighboring country.


The Mahasabha has already taken significant steps in response, initiating a social boycott of Bangladeshis seeking medical treatment in India. This action stems from what they describe as the unjust arrest of Chinmayakrishna Prabhu in Bangladesh, the brutal attack on his lawyer Ramen Roy, and the rising violence against women and children by extremist groups. Dr. Chandrachud Goswami emphasized in his statement that the Mahasabha does not condemn all Muslims from Bangladesh but pointed out that the perpetrators of these violent acts are driven by Islamic fundamentalism. He reminded that Bangladesh’s independence was achieved with the sacrifice of Indian soldiers, whose blood is reflected in the dark red of the Bangladesh flag.

The Mahasabha’s statement further argued that the Bangladeshi Muslims who come to India to escape violence must take a stand against these terrorist factions upon their return. Goswami highlighted that the actions of these extremists are tarnishing the image of Islam globally, leading to widespread hatred and condemnation of Bangladeshis. The Mahasabha has vowed to continue its campaign, urging that Bangladeshis seeking treatment in India should not be allowed to rent accommodation, dine in restaurants, or purchase goods in Indian shops until Bangladesh demonstrates mutual respect by officially apologizing for the actions of the extremist factions in their country and flying the Indian flag in solidarity.

Advocate Dinesh Pani, the legal advisor to the Hindu Mahasabha, condemned the deterioration of the legal system in Bangladesh and the attacks on Hindu and moderate Muslim lawyers. He also signaled that, given the ongoing human rights violations in Bangladesh, the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha may be compelled to take the matter to the international courts to hold the Bangladeshi government accountable for the oppression of minorities.

Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her strong support for the central government’s proposal in the state assembly to send peacekeepers to Bangladesh if the situation worsens.

The Hindu Mahasabha’s delegation to the Bangladesh High Commission today included Dr. Chandrachud Goswami, Dinesh Pani, social worker Anamika Mondal, and Atanu Basu, among others, who presented their formal protest and called for swift action from the Bangladeshi government.
Crime, International, West Bengal

BSF Seizes 18 Gold Biscuits in Separate Operations Along Indo-Bangladesh Border, Smuggler Arrested

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 3, 2024, North 24 Parganas : Vigilant jawans of the Border Security Force (BSF) South Bengal Frontier have successfully seized 18 gold biscuits during separate operations along the Indo-Bangladesh border in North 24 Parganas and Malda districts of West Bengal. The total weight of the recovered gold is 2.1 kg, with an estimated market value of Rs 1.62 crore.

The first operation took place near the Tarali-1 border post, where BSF personnel from the 143rd Battalion apprehended a smuggler attempting to cross into India with six gold biscuits hidden in the fuel tank of his motorcycle. Acting on specific intelligence regarding gold smuggling, the jawans increased surveillance at the Hakimpur checkpoint. At around 4:30 pm, they intercepted the suspicious motorcyclist, and a thorough search revealed the hidden gold. The arrested smuggler, during initial interrogation, revealed that he had received the gold from an unknown individual in Bangladesh and was instructed to deliver it to another smuggler in Bithari for a promised payment of Rs 1200. However, he was stopped before the transfer could take place.

In a second operation later the same day, BSF jawans from the 115th Battalion at the Boyraghat Border Outpost in Malda conducted a search at Boltala Ghat based on similar intelligence. A suspicious motorcyclist was seen approaching the area, but upon noticing the BSF personnel, the individual abandoned the motorcycle and fled the scene. Upon inspecting the motorcycle, the BSF team found 12 gold biscuits cleverly concealed inside the bike’s self-start mechanism.

The smuggler arrested in North 24 Parganas, along with the six gold biscuits, has been handed over to the Customs Department in Tentulia for further investigation. Similarly, the 12 gold biscuits recovered in Malda have been transferred to the Customs Department in Jangipur for continued inquiry.

The BSF continues to ramp up efforts along the Indo-Bangladesh border to curb the smuggling of contraband, including gold, and remains vigilant in securing the border area.

International, National, Politics, West Bengal

Shuvendu Adhikari Claims Mass Exodus of Bangladeshi Infiltrators, Accuses TMC of Voter List Manipulation

Leave a comment


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 3, 2024, Kolkata : In a series of controversial statements, the Leader of Opposition in West Bengal, Shuvendu Adhikari, has claimed that a significant number of Bangladeshi infiltrators, including Rohingyas, have fled the state due to pressure from his political actions and the Hindu community’s support. Adhikari, addressing journalists near the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on Tuesday afternoon, boldly stated, “One lakh legal Bangladeshis have fled because of my courage and the roar of the Sanatanis. Look at the hotels in New Market; they are empty. They have fled, and we will continue to chase out the rest.”

This latest outburst from the BJP leader follows similar statements made in a road meeting in Jadavpur, Kolkata, and a public address in Bangaon on Monday, where he reiterated his stance on removing illegal immigrants from the state. He went on to claim that areas like New Market and Shyamoli Paribahan are now free of Rohingya migrants, alleging that they had been forced to leave due to his relentless actions and the backing of the Hindu community.

Adhikari also showed journalists photographs he claimed depicted Rohingyas living in various parts of the state, including Howrah and Dankuni. He accused the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) of orchestrating a conspiracy to alter the state’s demographic makeup by sheltering illegal Bangladeshi Muslim immigrants, particularly Rohingyas. “These people entered India without visas. How many Rohingyas will the TMC accept?” he asked, asserting that the TMC had manipulated voter lists by including the names of illegal migrants.

Continuing his criticism of the TMC, Adhikari targeted Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of pandering to both Muslims and Hindus for political gain. He claimed that the Chief Minister is “afraid of Hindus” and is now making efforts to retain the support of the Hindu community, which he argued had united against her government.

The accusations and remarks have sparked controversy in the state, with the TMC dismissing them as baseless and politically motivated. The ruling party continues to deny the presence of illegal immigrants in West Bengal, insisting that such claims are part of a divisive political narrative.

The ongoing debate over the issue of illegal immigration has been a contentious topic in West Bengal politics, with the BJP consistently accusing the TMC of aiding the infiltration of migrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar. However, the TMC has denied all such allegations, labeling them as attempts to create fear and unrest in the state.

As the political tension over this issue intensifies, it remains to be seen how the state government and opposition will navigate these contentious claims in the lead-up to the next election cycle.

International, West Bengal

Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha Calls for Boycott of Bangladeshis Over Atrocities on Hindus, Hospital Boycotts Treatment for Bangladeshis

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 1, 2024, Kolkata : In a bold move, J.N. Roy Hospital has announced its decision to refuse medical treatment to Bangladeshi nationals, citing recent atrocities against minority Hindus in Bangladesh and the disrespect shown to the Indian national flag. This move comes as part of growing protests against the violence faced by Hindus in Bangladesh and the perceived dishonoring of India’s national symbols.


The hospital’s decision has been backed by Dr. Chandrachud Goswami, the state president of the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, who went a step further by declaring that if the atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh are not immediately stopped, there will be a social boycott of Bangladeshis coming to India for medical treatment. Dr. Goswami’s statement calls for more drastic measures, including the denial of basic services such as food and retail transactions to Bangladeshis visiting India. He stated that, “Given that Bangladeshis’ hands are stained with the blood of innocent Hindus, they should be excluded from receiving medical care, eating at hotels, or selling products in shops in India.”

A representative delegation from the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, led by Dr. Goswami, visited J.N. Roy Hospital to commend the hospital’s stand. The group honored hospital officials and healthcare workers with wreaths, letters of support, Dr. Goswami’s doctoral thesis, and chocolates. In their address, the Mahasabha members criticized Bangladeshis, accusing them of hypocrisy for disrespecting the Indian flag despite benefiting from India’s role in Bangladesh’s independence. Dr. Goswami emphasized, “India stood by Bangladesh during its struggle for independence, sacrificing the lives of thousands of Indian soldiers. If India hadn’t intervened, Bangladesh would not exist today.”

The Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha also condemned the red color of the rising sun in Bangladesh’s flag, describing it as a stark contrast to the blood shed by Indian soldiers during the Bangladesh Liberation War. The Mahasabha members pointed out that, unlike the situation in Bangladesh, such dishonesty and disrespect for national symbols are not observed in any of the over 100 Muslim-majority countries around the world.

In addition to their criticism of the Bangladesh government, the Mahasabha voiced their support for Chinmayakrishna Das Prabhu, who was unjustly arrested in Bangladesh. They also expressed concerns about Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mohammad Yunus, claiming that since Yunus took over the government of Bangladesh, oppression and anarchy have reached unprecedented levels.

Dr. Goswami and the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha members have urged the Indian government to take swift action to protect traditional Hindus and moderate Muslims in Bangladesh from rising Islamic extremism. He further praised the West Bengal government for its support of the central government’s stance on the Bangladesh issue. Dr. Goswami expressed confidence that the central government would act decisively to safeguard the security and interests of Indian citizens.

The delegation, which included prominent Mahasabha members such as Anamika Mondal, Ashok Prajapati, Aditya Halder, and Aparna Basu, made it clear that they will continue to push for the rights of Hindus in Bangladesh and their protection in India. They also emphasized the need to expel illegal Bangladeshi immigrants from India, urging the government to prioritize the resettlement of minority Hindus from Bangladesh who wish to seek refuge in India.

As tensions surrounding the situation in Bangladesh continue to rise, the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha has vowed to remain at the forefront of advocating for the protection of Hindus both within India and across its borders.
International, National

Indian Armed Forces Conduct ‘Operation Purbi Prahar’ to Counter Growing Chinese Aggression in Arunachal

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, November 19, 2024, New Delhi/Arunachal Pradesh: In a significant show of strength and preparedness, the three branches of the Indian Armed Forces recently conducted a joint military exercise, Operation Purbi Prahar, along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh. The exercise, which ran from November 10 to November 18, was aimed at enhancing inter-force coordination and readiness to counter escalating Chinese aggression in the northeast.


The Ministry of Defense highlighted that Operation Purbi Prahar was designed to simulate real-time combat scenarios and bolster the operational synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Several advanced platforms and cutting-edge weapon systems were deployed, showcasing India’s growing military capabilities.

Among the key assets used were fighter jets and surveillance aircraft of the Indian Air Force, along with the indigenously developed Advanced Light Helicopter Rudra. Ground forces operated the M777 Ultralight Howitzer, renowned for its mobility in mountainous terrains. Drones, including ABD and Swarm models, provided real-time battlefield intelligence and demonstrated their efficacy in tactical operations.

The joint exercise also focused on crisis management and battlefield interoperability. Soldiers from all three services practiced strategies to respond swiftly to hostile actions, honing skills in combat maneuvers, emergency response, and coordinated firepower.
The timing of Operation Purbi Prahar is critical, as it comes amid heightened tensions with China. Beijing has repeatedly been accused of aggressive posturing, including alleged incursions into Indian territory in Arunachal Pradesh. Satellite imagery has revealed the construction of multiple Chinese settlements near the LAC, raising alarms in New Delhi.

Defense experts view this exercise as part of India’s broader strategy to secure its northeastern borders. Following successful diplomatic engagements to ease tensions in eastern Ladakh, India is now turning its attention to other vulnerable sectors, including Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. These regions remain flashpoints in the ongoing border dispute with China.
Operation Purbi Prahar underscores India’s resolve to maintain a robust defense posture along the LAC. Beyond its tactical objectives, the exercise signals India’s readiness to counter any potential threat and asserts its commitment to safeguarding territorial integrity.

The exercise has been widely praised for its emphasis on indigenous technology and modern warfare techniques, further strengthening India’s position in the face of evolving security challenges.
Crime, International, Politics

Hamas Appeals to Donald Trump for Pressure on Israel to Agree to Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Conflict

Leave a comment

Baby Charaborty with inputs from Agencies, KalimNews, November 16, 2024 : Hamas has urged U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to exert pressure on Israel to agree to a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. In a letter addressed to Trump, the militant group indicated that while it is willing to accept a ceasefire, it insists that Israel must honor any such agreement. The conflict, which has raged for over a year, has resulted in significant loss of life and suffering, particularly in Gaza, where Israeli military forces continue their aggressive operations.

Hamas, which has heavily attacked Israeli targets throughout the conflict, including kidnapping numerous Israelis, now calls for an immediate ceasefire. The group also demands that Israel withdraw its forces from Gaza and address humanitarian concerns, including the return of displaced individuals and the provision of humanitarian aid. In a statement to AFP, Hamas political bureau member Bassem Naim reiterated that Hamas is willing to accept any proposal that would lead to a lasting ceasefire and military withdrawal from Gaza, provided the terms are respected by Israel.

“We have appealed to the U.S. administration, and to President Trump, to put pressure on the Israeli government to stop its aggression,” Naim said. He added that Hamas’ key demands include securing a serious deal for prisoner exchanges and the entry of humanitarian aid into the besieged Gaza Strip.

The call from Hamas for international mediation comes after Qatar, which had previously played a role in facilitating talks, announced it was stepping down from its position as a mediator. The Qatari government expressed disappointment with both sides’ lack of seriousness in pursuing peace, urging both Hamas and Israel to take the situation more seriously.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to push forward with its military objectives in Gaza, despite widespread condemnation from various international organizations, including the United Nations and Human Rights Watch, which have condemned Israel’s actions as exhibiting “characteristics of genocide.” The conflict has led to severe destruction in Gaza and a humanitarian crisis.

On the broader Middle East front, Donald Trump, who repeatedly promised during his presidential campaign to broker peace in the region, has indicated his support for Israel. His administration has been a staunch ally of Israel, and he has vowed to ensure the country’s security. Recently, Trump announced that Marco Rubio would serve as the next U.S. Secretary of State, a move that many analysts believe signals a continuation of his administration’s pro-Israel stance.

Additionally, developments in Lebanon and its ongoing conflict with Hezbollah have added another layer of complexity to the regional situation. After months of escalating clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, there are signs that both sides may be closer to a ceasefire. Lebanon’s government has confirmed that it is reviewing a U.S. truce proposal that could pave the way for a 60-day ceasefire, during which Lebanon would reposition its military along its southern border with Israel. This potential deal has been welcomed by Iran, a key ally of Hezbollah, with Ali Larijani, an advisor to Iran’s supreme leader, affirming his country’s support for Lebanon’s efforts to achieve peace.

Despite these developments, Israel has vowed that there will be no pause in its military operations against Hezbollah. Israeli airstrikes in Damascus, Syria, have continued for the second consecutive day, hitting key locations in the capital, including the Mazzeh district, which houses several foreign embassies and international institutions. The strikes are part of Israel’s ongoing campaign against Iranian and Hezbollah targets in the region.

The complex web of conflicts across the Middle East, involving Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, and Syria, continues to draw the attention of world powers, with ongoing diplomatic efforts attempting to bring about a lasting ceasefire and peace. However, as of now, no resolution appears imminent, and the region remains engulfed in violence, with many calling for greater international intervention to prevent further bloodshed and ensure the protection of civilians.

International, Politics

Trump 2.0 World and Sheikh Hasina’s Sinking Boat in Bangladesh

Leave a comment


Saleem Samad, KalimNews, November 11, 2024, Dhaka : Just days after Donald Trump’s landslide victory in the US presidential election, Ambassador Humayun Kabir, a credible commentator on foreign affairs, told Prothom Alo, an independent newspaper, that the bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and the United States would not be “sailing in troubled waters” as expected by the ousted Sheikh Hasina’s loyalists.

“I do not foresee any major changes in US-Bangladesh relations,” the former diplomat said confidently. He also pointed out that, unlike in South Asian countries, American foreign policy does not change dramatically after a change of government, whether the Democrats or Republicans win the election.

It is very rare for an incumbent regime in the US to engage in “witch-hunting” of loyalists of the previous government or opposition political parties—something that, unfortunately, is common in South Asia’s revenge-driven political culture.

Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh’s interim government’s chief adviser, congratulated Trump on his election as the new US president, expressing optimism about strengthened bilateral ties and future cooperation.

However, as reported on social media, the disgraced Awami League and its exiled leader Sheikh Hasina were upbeat about Trump’s victory. They believed that his election win might help Hasina return to power, as she lives in exile in Delhi.

The Awami League loyalists thought that Trump, who had lauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “good friend” and condemned “the barbaric violence against Hindus and Christians… in Bangladesh,” would lend moral support to Hasina in her quest to return to power, possibly with India’s help.

Trump, who will be sworn in as president in January 2025, had previously painted Bangladesh under Dr. Yunus as being in a “total state of chaos.”

Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to the chief adviser, quickly responded, claiming that Trump had been provided with incorrect information regarding the contentious issue of religious minorities after the interim government took charge in early August.

Meanwhile, Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert with a particular focus on Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan, said that US-Bangladesh relations had experienced a reset this year. This reset began after Bangladesh’s controversial election in January, when US President Joe Biden sent a letter to Hasina, expressing his “sincere desire” to cooperate across a wide range of areas despite months of bilateral tension leading up to the election, which the US State Department later categorized as “not free or fair.”

In a rush to maintain control, Hasina sank her party’s election symbol—the ‘Boat.’ Political observers explain that salvaging the capsized boat in the future would be a Herculean task.

Hasina ignored Biden’s warning and pressed ahead with a flawed parliamentary election for the third consecutive term. The reset truly took off after the mass movement against Hasina last monsoon, which brought Yunus to power. The US State Department quickly issued a statement saying it “stands ready to work” with Bangladesh’s interim government, Kugelman noted.

When Hasina fled, she did not leave any message for her party leaders and members, who were left behind to face the wrath of the interim government. The Awami League, which had rallied behind Hasina, was now scrambling to regain its footing.

Kugelman, Director of the South Asia Institute at the Woodrow Wilson International Center, writes that Dr. Yunus, like the US government, had been critical of Hasina’s illiberal and anti-democratic policies.

Trump’s election campaign, particularly his “Make America Great Again” slogan, and his recent social media broadside against Bangladesh, should be viewed against the backdrop of US electoral politics, Kugelman opined.

Meanwhile, a verified Awami League Facebook page announced the observance of Shaheed Noor Hossain Day on November 10, marking the 1990 student movement when Noor Hossain was killed in police firing during the military rule of Gen. Hossain Mohammad Ershad. Less than a month later, Ershad was toppled and imprisoned for corruption.

The Awami League staged a protest rally at Noor Hossain Square in Dhaka, demanding the elimination of “undemocratic forces” (i.e., the interim government of Dr. Yunus) and the restoration of democracy.

An audio message, purportedly from Hasina, was circulated, urging protesters to hold up Trump’s portrait. Police detained several individuals carrying Trump’s posters.

The law enforcement crackdown on Awami League supporters with Trump signs drew criticism from Trump’s supporters on Twitter (X), with the handle @TrumpUpdateH posting: “Bangladesh police arrest Trump supporters for celebrating Trump’s victory.” Dr. Yunus’ office responded with a press release, refuting claims made by Indian media about the crackdown. According to Yunus’ media wing, there had been no arrests or crackdowns on Trump supporters.

The government has vowed to prevent Awami League protests. In its statement, it described the Awami League as a “fascist party” and declared that the political outfit would not be allowed to hold gatherings anywhere in Bangladesh.

Earlier, in an interview with the Financial Times, Dr. Yunus had stated that there was “no place” for Hasina’s “fascist” party in Bangladesh’s politics. He described the Awami League as exhibiting “all the characteristics of fascism.”

Dr. Yunus also reiterated that Bangladesh would not seek the exiled leader’s extradition from India until the International Crimes Tribunal delivered its verdict, where she faces charges of crimes against humanity.

The Financial Times reported that political rivals and human rights groups have accused the Awami League of rigging at least three elections (2014, 2018, and 2024), carrying out extrajudicial killings, and politicizing state institutions during Hasina’s 15-year rule (2009–2024).

Students who helped topple Hasina from power have called for the ban of the Awami League, and the government has already banned the student wing, Chhatra League, for its mobilization of armed vigilante groups like the “Helmet Bahini” during the Monsoon Revolution.

The government is currently debating whether the Awami League should be temporarily suspended from politics, required to reform, or banned entirely.

Regarding the democratization process, the government is unsure how to justify when a free, fair, and inclusive election should be held to form a political government.

The 84-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner speculated that the Awami League might disintegrate but emphasized that its fate would not be decided by his interim administration, as it is “not a political government.” Any decision regarding Awami League’s participation in future elections would be made by “consensus” among political parties themselves, he told Financial Times. “They have to decide their political space.”

Meanwhile, Awami League’s cyber warriors, loyalist intellectuals, journalists, and expatriate Bangladesh nationals have argued that, despite Hasina fleeing to India, she is still recognized as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh by New Delhi.

This prompted the Indian Ministry of External Affairs to clarify Hasina’s status. “We have repeatedly said that she (Sheikh Hasina) is a former Prime Minister; that is where it stands,” Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told journalists last week.

However, India has yet to officially acknowledge that the people of Bangladesh have toppled Hasina’s government. This was evident in Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar’s statement in the Lok Sabha (the Lower House of Parliament) on August 6, the day after Hasina fled to New Delhi. Jaishankar failed to mention the Awami League government’s violations of human rights, including the killing of over 1,000 students and maiming nearly 30,000 people during the 36 days of July and August.

Jaishankar’s statement glossed over the brewing tensions in Bangladesh, the Awami League’s intolerance for dissent, and signs of Hasina’s regime turning into a classic autocratic one, writes Tanim Ahmed in The Daily Star.

Tanim concludes that the Indian establishment had built relations with the Awami League instead of with the people of Bangladesh, alienating the population in the process. The debacle created by India’s South Block was a result of putting all eggs in one basket—Hasina. Now that the eggs have been spoiled, the damage control appears to be ineffective.

Today, with Hasina and the Awami League ousted from power, India is seeing a dip in its popularity and facing increasing criticism.

Published simultaneously in the Stratheia Policy Journal, November 11, 2024

Saleem Samad is an award-winning independent journalist based in Bangladesh. A media rights defender with Reporters Without Borders (@RSF_inter). He is the recipient of the Ashoka Fellowship and Hellman-Hammett Award. He can be reached at saleemsamad@hotmail.com; Twitter (X): @saleemsamad

Crime, Health, International, National

Johnson & Johnson Faces ₹180 Crore Fine Over Asbestos Allegations in Baby Powder Case

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Delhi, November 10, 2024: Johnson & Johnson, the renowned healthcare giant known for its baby powder, has been hit with a significant legal ruling, ordered to pay ₹180 crore (USD 24 million) in damages after a Connecticut court found its iconic product contained harmful asbestos. The case, filed by plaintiff Ivan Plotkin, who developed mesothelioma—a rare cancer linked to asbestos—after using the baby powder, has raised serious concerns about the safety of the product.


Plotkin claimed that years of using Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder led to his diagnosis, and his legal team argued that the product was contaminated with asbestos fibers, posing a health risk. Despite Johnson & Johnson’s defense that their product was asbestos-free, the court sided with the plaintiff, highlighting the potential dangers of the company’s talc-based powder.


The lawsuit focuses on allegations that Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder contained trace amounts of asbestos, a carcinogen known to cause cancer. These claims are not new; previous investigations have uncovered evidence that the company’s talc products were, at times, contaminated with asbestos between the 1970s and early 2000s. In fact, internal documents from Johnson & Johnson revealed that several tests showed contamination with asbestos, a fact not disclosed to the public or regulatory bodies.

The company has consistently denied these claims, maintaining that its baby powder is safe and free of asbestos. Johnson & Johnson’s defense also argues that independent scientific evaluations confirm the safety of their product.

This ruling is just the latest chapter in a series of lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson over its talc-based products. The company has faced over 61,000 lawsuits from individuals claiming their talc products caused cancers like ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. In 2018, a Missouri court awarded nearly $4.7 billion in damages to 22 women who alleged the powder contributed to their ovarian cancer.

Johnson & Johnson has withdrawn its talc-based products from the U.S. market in 2020 but continues to face legal scrutiny worldwide, particularly in markets like India and Bangladesh, where the baby powder has been widely used for decades.

Johnson & Johnson is currently engaged in bankruptcy proceedings to manage its talc-related liabilities, including a nearly $9 billion settlement attempt for ovarian cancer claims. However, mesothelioma cases like Plotkin’s are not part of this settlement, and the company faces continued litigation.

Despite the legal pressure, Johnson & Johnson has vowed to appeal the ruling and maintain that its talc products are safe, asserting that the verdict is “irreconcilable with decades of scientific evidence.” The company is also dealing with a $700 million settlement in the U.S., addressing accusations from 42 states over misleading consumers about the safety of its talc-based products.

As the company faces mounting legal and reputational challenges, the public’s concern over the safety of its once-legendary baby powder continues to grow. The outcome of this ongoing litigation will likely have significant implications for the future of Johnson & Johnson and its iconic product line.