Category Archives: Politics

Politics, West Bengal

Religion and Politics Merge in Bengal: Shuvendu Adhikari’s Call for Hindu Unity and Abhishek Banerjee’s Criticism of Central Government

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 3, 2025, Kolkata:  Religion and politics, traditionally distinct in Bengal, are increasingly becoming intertwined, as political leaders from different parties are now directly invoking religious sentiments in their campaigns. On Thursday, Leader of the Opposition in the Bengal Legislative Assembly, Shuvendu Adhikari, made a provocative statement during a program in Midnapore, announcing that his party would “deliver the Gita to all Hindu homes.” In a passionate address, Adhikari declared, “Hindu religion is zindabad. Hindus of the world, unite!” as Jai Shri Ram slogans were chanted from the crowd.

Adhikari’s remarks mark a bold escalation in the state’s political discourse, where religion has rarely been so directly invoked in the context of electoral politics. The statement echoes a growing trend in which political parties seek to mobilize the Hindu vote by invoking religious symbols and slogans. The BJP, under Adhikari’s leadership, has now openly embraced a Hindu-centric narrative, with the opposition leader stating, “A Hindu government will be established soon.” The rhetoric is clearly aimed at galvanizing the Hindu community ahead of the elections, signaling that the battle for votes has already begun in earnest.

While the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has not yet responded directly to these religious overtures, the political climate in Bengal has become charged as election season approaches. Adhikari’s remarks and his call for a “Hindu government” in Bengal have sparked discussions on the intersection of religion and politics in the state.

On the other hand, TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee took aim at the central government on the same day, addressing issues related to religious persecution abroad. Speaking at a rally in Diamond Harbor, Banerjee questioned why the central government, led by the BJP, has remained silent on the alleged religious oppression in Bangladesh. “Why is the central government not taking any action against those who are oppressing minorities in Bangladesh?” he asked, suggesting that the BJP’s lack of response could be due to the absence of elections in Bangladesh. His statement was seen as an effort to highlight what he perceives as the BJP’s selective attention to issues of religious persecution, particularly when it involves electoral considerations.

Abhishek’s remarks came amid heightened tensions over the fate of Chinmaykrishna Das, a TMC leader, whose bail hearing was being conducted in Bangladesh. Das, an influential figure in Bengal, had been detained in Bangladesh, adding fuel to the political fire in the state.

As the elections draw nearer, it is evident that both the BJP and TMC are playing a high-stakes political game, with religion and national issues taking center stage. Whether these strategies will resonate with voters or deepen divisions in the state remains to be seen, but the current political atmosphere in Bengal is anything but conventional.

National, Politics

Amit Shah Proposes Renaming Kashmir to Kashyap, Advocates for Rewriting Indian History Based on Facts

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  January 3, 2025, Kolkata : Union Home Minister Amit Shah has made a significant statement regarding the renaming of cities and districts, suggesting that Kashmir could be renamed to “Kashyap.” Speaking at the launch of the book Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh through the Ages in New Delhi, Shah criticized the distortion of Kashmir’s historical identity. He claimed that the name “Kashmir” had been “distorted” over time and referred to an ancient text, an 8,000-year-old book that mentions both Kashmir and Jhelum, asserting that “who can say whose Kashmir?”


Shah emphasized Kashmir’s unwavering connection to India, stating that it has always been an integral part of the nation. He argued that history should not be written to please any political regime, referencing the colonial period and the post-independence era when history was often shaped to suit the rulers of the time. “History is not written sitting in Lutyens’ Delhi. The time for writing history to please the rulers is over,” he remarked.

The Home Minister also appealed to historians, urging them to write India’s history based on evidence, not political convenience. He pointed out that for centuries, history was written with the intention of pleasing those in power, but now it was time to “break free” from that tradition. He urged historians to document India’s rich and diverse history, particularly the significance of Kashmir’s culture and its contribution to the Indian subcontinent.

Shah highlighted Kashmir’s profound cultural and spiritual ties with India, citing the destruction of temples in Ladakh, the mistakes made in Kashmir after independence, and the subsequent corrections that followed. He also referenced important landmarks like Shankaracharya’s mention of the Silk Route and the Hemis Math to prove that Kashmir has long been a cornerstone of India’s cultural foundation. He further noted that Sufi, Buddhist, and Shaivite monasteries had all flourished in Kashmir, emphasizing the region’s central role in the history of Indian civilization.

The Home Minister stressed that India’s 10,000-year-old culture is present in every part of the country, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Gandhara to Odisha, and Bengal to Assam. He argued that those who view the country solely through a geopolitical lens fail to grasp the deeper cultural and historical ties that bind the nation together.

Shah’s comments on renaming Kashmir to Kashyap and his call for a more fact-based historical narrative have ignited a renewed debate on the region’s identity and the interpretation of India’s past.
Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Scolds Transport Minister in Nabanna Meeting Over Public Transport Issues

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 3, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee raised her voice against the state’s Transport Minister during a heated exchange at a packed meeting in the Nabanna meeting hall on Thursday. Banerjee criticized the Minister and the department for not addressing the public’s transportation difficulties, particularly in Kolkata, where residents are struggling due to insufficient bus services.


Mamata’s scolding came after she expressed frustration over the lack of direct field involvement from both the Transport Minister and the Secretary. “Does the Minister or Secretary ever go out on the roads to see what the common people are facing?” Mamata asked, accusing the department of being out of touch with the issues on the ground. She also remarked that the Transport Department had become “a silent department” due to its inaction.

In a pointed question, the Chief Minister asked, “Have the Minister and Secretary ever visited? Have you visited Kolkata, where there are no buses? People are standing waiting for buses!” Mamata demanded answers about where additional buses could be deployed to ease the situation, as public transport is a critical issue for daily commuters.

The Transport Minister, attempting to defend the department, quickly responded by stating that the frequency of buses had been increased. However, this statement only seemed to escalate the Chief Minister’s anger. “Some things do not mean anything,” Mamata shot back. “You are a minister, you should understand that some things don’t hold weight in reality.”

The Chief Minister specifically pointed out that the lack of buses was a major issue around important areas like hospitals and IT sectors, where commuters face severe inconveniences. “There is a shortage of buses in these places,” Mamata said, emphasizing the need for immediate improvements in the transportation system. She suggested that the Transport Minister should make surprise visits to these areas to better understand the challenges faced by the public.

Mamata’s sharp words underscored her dissatisfaction with the Transport Department’s handling of public transportation issues and reflected her intent to push for more proactive measures to alleviate the everyday struggles of Kolkata’s commuters.
Education, Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Reprimands Education Minister Bratya Basu Over Unilateral Decision on Semester System in Schools

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 3, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has made it clear that the proposed semester system in primary education will not be implemented in the state’s schools. The matter came to light during an administrative meeting held at Nabanna on Thursday, where Banerjee expressed her strong dissatisfaction with Education Minister Bratya Basu’s handling of the issue.


According to sources, during the meeting, Banerjee reprimanded Basu for introducing the semester system in primary education without prior consultation with her or the Chief Secretary. “I saw it in the paper. The Chief Secretary didn’t know either. Bratya, you are the Education Minister, but you need to consult us before deciding on new policies in education,” Mamata stated.

In his defense, Basu responded, “Didi, I also saw it in the paper and informed the Chief Secretary the day after tomorrow. A notification will only be issued if you approve it.” However, Mamata remained unimpressed and further criticized the way the matter was handled. “How did it come out in the paper first? I don’t want to hear anything. The public knew it first, the message has already gone out to the media. How did this happen?” she questioned, visibly upset.

Basu was unable to provide a satisfactory answer to the Chief Minister’s concerns, leading Mamata to question the decision-making process. “Four advisors decided together and said it’s done! Is this how things should work? I want to reduce the burden of children’s bags, not add to it. Education today is already too heavy. Children can’t even speak properly, and you want to give them semesters? What works in college doesn’t work in school,” she said.

Mamata Banerjee firmly rejected the introduction of the semester system at the primary school level, reiterating that the existing system would continue. She emphasized the need for consultation before any educational policy decisions are made, warning that any new initiatives would first have to be discussed with the relevant authorities before being shared with the media. “If we take any decision regarding education, we will have to talk to them first, then it will go to the media,” she concluded.

This exchange has raised questions about the communication and decision-making processes within the state government, particularly in the field of education. It appears that Mamata Banerjee is taking a more hands-on approach to ensure that educational reforms are thoroughly vetted and discussed before being rolled out.
Politics, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee Clarifies Stand Amidst Controversy Over Artist Boycott and Event Management

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 3, 2025, Kolkata : In a pointed statement on Thursday, Abhishek Banerjee, the National General Secretary of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), clarified his stance on a growing controversy surrounding the party’s position on the participation of artists in political events. Banerjee openly expressed support for those who had called for occupying the night on August 14, a statement that many believe was directed at his party colleague Kunal Ghosh.

Banerjee, without reservations, remarked, “I applauded those who called for occupying the night on August 14, whether anyone supported them or not. I am saying the same thing even today. Some may like it or not.” His words left little room for ambiguity, signaling a clear disagreement with certain internal party actions, particularly those involving Ghosh.

The source of tension appears to stem from Ghosh’s controversial remarks at a recent event, where he advocated for the boycott of artists who had protested against the government during the R G tax scandal. This led to an internal push to replace Lagnajita Chakraborty with Nachiketa at a scheduled event, a move that did not sit well with Banerjee.

In his response, Banerjee made it clear that he would not impose restrictions on the freedom of choice for any artist. He emphasized, “I don’t want to force anyone to sing where and with whom, when to sing, or who will sing. It is my decision where I will walk. Everyone has freedom.” Banerjee further asserted that neither he nor Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had issued any formal directive regarding the boycott or any artist’s participation.

The tension between Banerjee and Ghosh escalated when Lagnajita’s performance, initially canceled under Ghosh’s orders, was reinstated following Banerjee’s intervention. The reversal was a public humiliation for Ghosh, who had faced criticism for his handling of the event.

While the political undercurrents continue to unfold, Banerjee’s firm statements have made his position clear: decisions regarding the participation of artists and the party’s approach to such matters are ultimately his to make.

Politics, West Bengal

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Suggests Alternative Solutions to Address OBC Certificate Crisis

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 31, 2024, Kolkata : Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has signaled her intent to explore alternative methods for resolving the ongoing crisis faced by OBC certificate holders in West Bengal. Speaking at an administrative meeting in Sandeshkhali, Basirhat, on Monday, she acknowledged the difficulties faced by the state’s OBC community following a controversial High Court verdict that annulled all OBC certificates issued since 2010. This ruling has left around five lakh OBC certificate holders in legal limbo, with pending appointments and delays in obtaining OBC-related benefits.


Mamata Banerjee expressed her commitment to finding a solution and noted that the state government has been actively challenging the Calcutta High Court’s decision in the Supreme Court. However, due to repeated postponements of the case in the apex court, several recruitment processes for OBC candidates have been stalled, causing significant hardship.

The Chief Minister pointed out the difficulties faced by OBC students and job applicants, many of whom have been unable to obtain OBC non-criminal certificates. “OBC children are facing a bit of a problem because a case has been filed in the court and it is now stuck in the Supreme Court. We have given about seven or eight lawyers, and we are trying to find out if any method can be found because many recruitments are stuck. Almost lakhs of recruitments are stuck for these OBCs,” she said.

Amid these challenges, Banerjee hinted at the possibility of seeking alternative avenues, following suggestions made by former IPS officer and MLA Humayun Kabir. Kabir has proposed that the state government could use Section 11 of the West Bengal Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993, which allows for a revision of the OBC list based on a new survey. He also cited the Calcutta High Court’s judgment, which stated that the government could issue a new notification, conduct a fresh survey, and prepare an updated list in accordance with specific rules, provided the Backward Classes Commission agrees to the proposal.

The suggestion has garnered attention as a potential path forward, especially as the Supreme Court case continues to be delayed. Notably, renowned lawyer Kapil Sibal was appointed by the state government to represent it in the OBC case, but hearings have been repeatedly postponed due to the precedence of other cases, such as the RG Kar case.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will endorse this alternative approach to address the mounting issues faced by OBC certificate holders in West Bengal.
Politics, West Bengal

Over 50 BJP Workers Resign in Nandigram, Accuse Local Leadership of Corruption and Mismanagement

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 31, 2024, Nandigram :  500 workers quit BJP in NandigramIn a significant political development, over 50 workers and leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from Nandigram resigned on Sunday, citing issues of mismanagement, corruption, and alleged misconduct by local leaders. The resignation, which took place in a press conference, marks a setback for the BJP in the region. Among the prominent figures to leave the party were Debashis Das, the BJP’s Nandigram-1 Panchayat Samiti Education Officer, and Ashok Karan, a district committee member of the party.


The group of former BJP members expressed strong discontent with the behavior of the party’s local leadership, accusing them of arrogance and corruption. They highlighted the growing divide between the party’s leaders and workers, which they believe has significantly affected the functioning of local governance. The workers also raised concerns about widespread corruption within BJP-run gram panchayats, claiming that despite multiple complaints, no action was taken to address their grievances.

This mass resignation is seen as part of a broader trend, with many former BJP supporters now returning to the Trinamool Congress. Both Debashis Das and Ashok Karan were former Trinamool leaders who had joined the BJP in 2020, following the political shift caused by differences with TMC’s Suvendu Adhikari. However, they have since been vocal in their criticism of the BJP, particularly alleging corruption and demanding accountability within the party ranks.

The resignation event on Sunday further underscored the deepening rift within the BJP’s local units in Nandigram, as the exit of key figures could potentially affect the party’s future prospects in the area. The situation is now being closely watched as Nandigram remains a politically sensitive constituency.
International, Politics, West Bengal

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

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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.
Health, Politics, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee to Launch ‘Sevashray’ Mobile Health Camp in Diamond Harbour on January 2

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 29, 2024 : Trinamool Congress All India General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee is set to inaugurate a major healthcare initiative, Sevashray, in Diamond Harbour on January 2, marking the launch of a mobile hospital project aimed at providing essential health services across his parliamentary constituency. This initiative, which aims to offer free medical care and diagnostics to residents, will kick off with an inaugural ceremony at the SDO Ground in Diamond Harbour.


The Sevashray health camp is the brainchild of Abhishek Banerjee and will run from January 2 to 11 as part of its first phase. The program is designed to benefit the seven assembly constituencies under Banerjee’s jurisdiction, offering mobile healthcare services to thousands of people. The camps will provide a range of medical services, including general medicine, diagnostic tests, and specialty consultations, free of cost.

According to Banerjee, general medicine doctors will be available for seven days in each constituency, while the remaining three days will feature specialized care from super-specialty doctors. In total, there are plans for 40 health camps each day across the constituency, with more than 800 doctors expected to participate in the 75-day program. The camps will feature portable diagnostic tools such as ECG machines and offer services like blood tests. If any health issues are detected, immediate diagnosis and treatment will be provided, along with free medicines.

In addition to healthcare services, the camps will utilize an app-based registration system, providing real-time updates for attendees and a dedicated emergency help desk. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the local community by making healthcare more accessible, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Abhishek Banerjee’s decision to personally inaugurate the Sevashray initiative has raised questions, as it marks a significant departure from the usual protocol where similar projects are launched by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. While the Chief Minister has inaugurated various welfare programs throughout Bengal, the launch of this mobile health initiative by a Member of Parliament underscores Abhishek Banerjee’s increasing involvement in regional development projects, particularly in his constituency.

This move is likely to enhance his political profile, especially ahead of upcoming elections, as it reflects a direct commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure in his constituency. The Sevashray project aims to bridge gaps in healthcare access and is expected to provide a much-needed boost to public health services in the region.
Crime, Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Youth Leader Survives Shooting Attack in Murshidabad; Police Investigate Possible Motive

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 29, 2024 : A shooting incident took place in the Saidabad area of Baharampur city, Murshidabad, late on Saturday night, when Trinamool Congress youth leader Papai Ghosh was attacked by unidentified assailants while returning home in his personal vehicle. The gunfire shattered the car’s windows, though Ghosh, fortunately, escaped unharmed. The attack occurred near the Kasimbazar Ring Road, an area known for its commercial and residential activity.


According to Ghosh, he had dropped off his personal security guard earlier in the evening and was alone in the vehicle, accompanied by two other individuals, when the gunmen struck. “I travel regularly within my area and have never experienced anything like this before,” Ghosh told reporters. He expressed fear and confusion over the motive behind the attack, but emphasized that he believed the incident was politically motivated. However, he refrained from naming any specific group or political faction involved.

The Baharampur police were quick to respond to the scene, arriving shortly after the incident was reported. Despite a thorough search of the area, no suspects were found. Police recovered empty bullet shells from the location, and investigations are ongoing. The authorities are reviewing nearby CCTV footage to gather clues about the assailants’ identities.

Sources indicate that Papai Ghosh is involved in several businesses and has ties with contractors in the region, including those associated with the Baharampur Municipality. His wife, Sushma Ghosh, is the head of the Manindranagar Panchayat, which adds a layer of local political significance to the incident.

The attack has raised concerns about the security situation in the region, as the state’s ongoing challenges with lawlessness and violence continue to make headlines. While the police are actively investigating, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and the community is left shaken by the brazen act of violence.

As of now, authorities are working to ensure the safety of local leaders and have pledged to increase surveillance and patrols in the area to prevent any further incidents.
Economy, Politics, Regional, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Launches ‘Banglar Bari Project’ to Provide Homes for Marginalized, Tightens Measures Against Corruption

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 28, 2024, Kolkata : 

After taking the helm of the state government in 2011, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has rolled out several high-profile, service-oriented initiatives aimed at benefiting the marginalized communities of Bengal. Projects such as Kanyashree, Lakshmi Bhandar, and Swasthya Saathi have significantly bolstered her political support base. Now, the ‘Banglar Bari Project’ is drawing attention as a new venture designed to provide homes for the underprivileged who lack shelter.

The project has emerged against the backdrop of controversy surrounding the Central Housing Scheme. Amid the ongoing debate, Chief Minister Banerjee announced that the ‘Banglar Bari Project’ would be implemented solely through the state’s resources, with no involvement of the central government. The initiative targets the most vulnerable sections of society, offering financial assistance to build homes for those without a ‘roof’ over their heads.

According to government sources, 12 lakh beneficiaries have already been enrolled in the program, with the first installment of 60,000 rupees already disbursed into their accounts. By December 31, the remaining installments are expected to be credited to all eligible recipients.

Amid concerns over corruption in various state government projects, Chief Minister Banerjee has taken a strict stance. In an effort to ensure transparency, she has issued clear instructions: no government official, worker, or public representative is allowed to demand money in exchange for facilitating assistance under the ‘Banglar Bari Project.’ Any such requests must be immediately reported to the Gram Panchayat, Banerjee emphasized.

Additionally, to facilitate complaints, the West Bengal government has launched a toll-free helpline number: 18008899451. This number allows beneficiaries to report any issues or grievances related to the project, ensuring that citizens have a direct channel to address concerns. The government has assured the public that any complaints will be swiftly addressed to ensure smooth implementation of the program.

The ‘Banglar Bari Project’ is expected to have a significant impact on Bengal’s marginalized communities, as it moves forward with an emphasis on transparency and accountability.

Politics, West Bengal

BJP MLA Nikhil Ranjan Dey Summoned by Kolkata Police in Extortion Case Involving Abhishek Banerjee’s Name

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 28, 2024, Kolkata :  

The investigation into an extortion case allegedly linked to the name of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee has taken a new turn, with Cooch Behar BJP MLA Nikhil Ranjan Dey being summoned by the Kolkata Police. The Shakespeare Sarani police sent an email summons to Dey, instructing him to appear at the police station within the next three days for questioning.
National, Politics

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Passes Away, National Mourning Declared

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 27, 2024, New Delhi : Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, known as the architect of India’s economic reforms, passed away late Thursday night at AIIMS in Delhi, leaving the nation in mourning. Politicians from all political parties have come together to honor his legacy, acknowledging his immense contributions to the country’s economic development and governance.


Singh’s death has elicited tributes from across the political spectrum, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP President JP Nadda, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and several other politicians expressing their sorrow. President Draupadi Murmu also remembered Singh’s scholarly approach and his pivotal role in shaping India’s administration.

Mamata Banerjee, in her tribute on social media, described Singh as a leader who “worked silently,” while Trinamool MP Abhishek Banerjee stated that the country has lost a great statesman. Singh’s influence on India’s growth trajectory remains unparalleled, particularly in terms of economic liberalization and fiscal policy.

On Friday, Singh’s body was kept at his residence in Delhi for public and political leaders to pay their respects. Among the visitors were Prime Minister Modi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Amit Shah, and several senior leaders from across the political spectrum. His youngest daughter, who teaches in California, is expected to return to India on Friday afternoon, and the former Prime Minister’s last rites will be held with full state honors on Saturday.

Following the last rites, Singh’s ashes will be taken to the Congress headquarters for the public to pay their final respects. In recognition of his invaluable service to the nation, the central government has declared seven days of national mourning.
Politics, West Bengal

Heightened Security Measures for Subhendu Adhikari Amid Threats from Bangladeshi Militants

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 27, 2024, Kolkata : In light of growing concerns over potential threats from Bangladeshi militants, the central and state governments have ramped up security for opposition leader Subhendu Adhikari. Intelligence sources indicate that there are credible fears of an attack on Adhikari, prompting an array of stringent security measures at his public appearances and during his travels.


It has been revealed that a ‘D zone’ will be established at all of Adhikari’s meetings, creating a significant security buffer around him. Central intelligence agencies will be closely monitoring all events, and security personnel will be on high alert. During outdoor events, central security guards will be armed with shields and firearms, and Adhikari will not address the media or interact with the public from the stage. He will answer questions from the press only after the meeting has concluded.

Police sources confirmed that security arrangements will include a fortified convoy with 22 armed personnel. At traffic signals, other security vehicles will strategically surround Adhikari’s car, ensuring maximum protection. When traveling through high-risk areas, bulletproof vehicles will be deployed. In addition, arrangements are being made for female security guards to accompany Adhikari, especially in sensitive situations.

Special attention will also be given to the security at the Assembly, with measures to prevent crowds from gathering near Gate No. 2 during Adhikari’s entry and exit. Both state and central authorities have made it clear that there will be no compromise on the leader’s security, reinforcing their commitment to ensuring his safety in the face of growing threats.
Politics, West Bengal

Allegations Surface Over BJP Leaders Receiving Housing Benefits Through Direct Contact with Chief Minister’s Office in Panshkura

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 26, 2024, Kolkata :

 A political controversy has erupted in Panshkura following claims that several BJP leaders and workers received financial aid for housing construction by directly contacting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s office. The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has responded by defending the Chief Minister’s impartiality, stating that she does not consider political affiliations when distributing benefits.

According to sources, a number of BJP leaders, including panchayat members and their relatives, have allegedly used personal influence to secure housing assistance under the state’s housing scheme. The controversy centers on individuals such as Uttam Mandal, the brother-in-law of Chanda Jana Mandal, the BJP president of Haur Gram Panchayat in Panshkura block. Uttam Mandal, described as an active BJP worker, reportedly received funds for house construction after directly contacting the Chief Minister’s office.

Mandal himself confirmed the claim, stating that he had been previously excluded from the housing list during the time the area was under TMC control, allegedly due to his political affiliation. He asserted that when the BJP took control of the gram panchayat, his name was included after reaching out directly to the Chief Minister.

The allegations also extend to other BJP figures, including Vikas Bagh, a BJP member from the Chanagarh booth of Haur Gram Panchayat. Bagh’s house, described as being in a dilapidated state, had previously been left off the housing list, but he too was reportedly able to secure assistance after calling the Chief Minister directly.

The opposition, particularly the Trinamool Congress, has rejected the charges, arguing that the Chief Minister does not discriminate based on political affiliation and remains focused on delivering welfare benefits to all. However, the accusations have sparked a political tug-of-war, with both parties accusing each other of using state resources for political gains.

This unfolding situation in Panshkura highlights the ongoing political rivalry between the TMC and BJP in West Bengal, particularly as local elections loom large. The housing issue has now become a flashpoint in the battle for political control, with both sides seeking to gain an upper hand in the eyes of voters.
International, Politics, West Bengal

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

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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.
Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Congress Expels Several Leaders Over Alleged Breach of Discipline

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 20, 2024, Kolkata :   The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has expelled several leaders for alleged anti-party activities and breaches of party discipline. Among those expelled is Manikar Mandal, vice president of the Trinamool Professors’ Organization Web Cooper. Mandal, who also served as an executive council member at Kalyani University, has been removed from both his positions in the university and within the party.


In addition, Pritam Halder, executive president of the TMC’s Secondary Teachers’ Organization, has also faced expulsion. The party has also taken action against Tarun Tiwari, the former secretary of Yuva Trinamool. Tiwari was accused of creating a disturbance in the name of party leader Abhishek Banerjee, leading to a complaint filed by a businessman at the Posta police station. Subsequently, both Tiwari’s expulsion and his arrest were confirmed. Youth Trinamool President and Member of Parliament Sayani Banerjee officially announced Tiwari’s expulsion in a letter.

Furthermore, two leaders from the teachers’ organization, Mani Shankar and Pritam, were also expelled following allegations of anti-party conduct. Bratya Basu, the president of the party’s education wing, confirmed their expulsions. This series of expulsions underscores the party’s firm stance on maintaining discipline within its ranks.
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