Category Archives: Politics

National, Politics

Prime Minister Modi Expresses Concern Over Escalating Crisis in the Middle East During Cabinet Meeting

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, New Delhi: The ongoing turmoil in the Middle East took center stage during a crucial cabinet committee meeting on Thursday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing deep concern over the escalating situation. As violence intensifies in the region, key government officials gathered to assess potential impacts on India’s trade and oil imports.


During the meeting, discussions focused on the critical nature of the conflict and its implications for India, particularly in light of rising oil prices and disrupted maritime trade routes. Informants indicate that the deteriorating circumstances in West Asia could lead to increased instability, with the potential for unrest to reverberate within India.

Prime Minister Modi underscored the need for peaceful resolutions, emphasizing that New Delhi has consistently urged warring nations to cease hostilities and engage in constructive dialogue. However, the situation remains precarious, with countries such as Israel and Iran remaining entrenched in their positions. Tensions escalated further on Tuesday when Tehran launched an attack targeting Tel Aviv, heightening concerns over regional security.

The cabinet members acknowledged that rising oil prices, spurred by the conflict, would have significant repercussions for the Indian economy, particularly since India is a major importer of oil from nations like Iran. An increase in oil costs could lead to higher domestic prices, impacting consumers across the country. Additionally, disruptions in maritime trade could exacerbate economic challenges.

Key figures present at the emergency cabinet meeting included Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The meeting underscored the government’s urgent need to formulate strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of the ongoing conflict while navigating the complexities of international diplomacy.

As the situation in the Middle East continues to unfold, India remains vigilant, with government officials closely monitoring developments and preparing to respond to any further escalations that may arise.
Politics, West Bengal

BJP Set to Announce New State President Post-Puja: Key Names in the Running

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is gearing up to announce a new state president in West Bengal following the upcoming Puja festivities. Current State President Sukanta Majumder, who also serves as the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, recently visited Delhi at the invitation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah for crucial discussions regarding the party’s leadership.


Sources within the BJP indicate that a significant reshuffling is on the horizon, with the final name for the state president set to be revealed after obtaining the green light from the party’s All India President, JP Nadda. While the BJP has been discreet about the specifics of the meeting, they have labeled it an “organizational meeting.”

Three prominent names are reportedly in contention for the top position: Member of Parliament Jyotirmoy Singh Mahat, Jagannath Sarkar, and former Union Minister Debashree Chowdhury. These candidates emerged as potential leaders during discussions between West Bengal BJP’s leadership and Amit Shah, signaling a strategic shift in the party’s approach in the region.

As the Puja celebrations draw near, all eyes will be on the BJP to see who will take the helm and steer the party in West Bengal.
Politics, West Bengal

Ex-IPS and MLA Humayun Kabir Raises Concerns Over Festival Sentiments Amidst Ongoing Crisis

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, Kolkata: Former IPS officer and current Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir has stirred conversation on social media regarding the emotional toll of recent events overshadowing the festive season. In a poignant post, Kabir expressed, “Tilottama is not in the third year puja. Tears in the eyes of two mothers, heavy hearts. Excluding joy and new clothes.”


Kabir’s heartfelt comments reflect a personal struggle amid a backdrop of unrest, particularly concerning the RG Kar Medical College scandal. The former MLA, who represents Debra, mentioned the difficulties faced by the community, emphasizing the emotional weight he feels as a public servant. He stated, “As a public representative, the card has to be sent. Greetings are to be sent. I might do them. But there is a problem from inside this time. It’s a personal problem. When I see the boy, I remember the girl.”

His remarks come at a tumultuous time for the ruling Trinamool Congress, grappling with criticisms related to the RG Kar Medical College scandal, which has sparked widespread outrage, including protests calling for justice for a doctor allegedly involved in a murder-rape case. The Chief Minister’s recent appeal for citizens to return to the festive spirit has faced backlash, with Kabir’s comments adding to the discomfort within party ranks.

Kabir lamented, “One month has passed. Today is the 9th. Come back to the puja, I beg you. Come back to the festival.” This statement, made in the context of the Chief Minister’s earlier comments encouraging a return to celebration, has ignited fierce debates, particularly among opposition parties, who view it as tone-deaf in light of ongoing crises.

Reflecting on his personal experiences, Kabir shared the sorrow of remembering his late daughter while celebrating the festival. “My son is a doctor. The same age may have passed a little earlier. Seeing him reminds me of the girl. I remember all the time. Where it hurts to think. Buy pajama punjabi during puja. Wear dhoti. I will not buy anything now. I don’t feel good at all,” he noted, revealing the depth of his grief.

As the festival approaches, the tension between celebration and mourning looms large, with Kabir’s candid expressions highlighting the emotional complexities faced by many in the community. His words resonate as a call for reflection, urging both the public and the ruling party to acknowledge the underlying issues that challenge the spirit of celebration during this festive season.
Economy, Politics, Regional, West Bengal

West Bengal Government Urges Hill Tea Gardens to Pay 16% Bonus to Workers

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West Bengal government urges hill tea gardens to pay a 16% bonus to workers for fiscal 2023-24, aligning with the Dooars and Terai regions’ decision. The move aims to maintain parity and prevent labor unrest.
PTI, Kolkata, Oct 1, 2024 :  The West Bengal government’s Labour department on Tuesday issued an advisory to disburse bonus to workers of tea gardens of Darjeeling, Kurseong and Kalimpong at 16 per cent for the fiscal 2023-24.

The government said this advisory has been issued to maintain parity throughout the tea industry in West Bengal as the gardens of Dooars and Terai regions of North Bengal have decided to pay bonus at 16 per cent for the last financial year.

In the advisory, the state government said that while the tea gardens of the hills had earlier agreed to pay bonus to the workers at 8.33 per cent as per the Bonus Act of 1965 after a series of meetings held between management, trade unions, and the government at tripartite level considering the severe financial stress faced by the gardens, labour unrest ensued in North Bengal as the workers were not ready to settle for bonus at less than 20 per cent.

Subsequently, the management of the gardens agreed to pay bonus at 13 per cent but the unions stuck to their demand of 20 per cent resulting in a deadlock.

According to the government, an industry-wide settlement has been already made to pay bonus at 16 per cent in North Bengal, disbursement of the same has started in full swing there.

While the Durga Puja and Dussehra festivals are very near, it has become urgent and necessary that the bonus payment to the workers of North Bengal gardens should start without any further delay by the management.

The government said that workers and their families should not be deprived owing to the impasse. The government also urged the management and the trade unions to ensure industrial peace and harmony.

Regarding financially stressed gardens, the rate of bonus may be decided at a bipartite level agreed upon by the management and trade unions.

The government also said that the bonus payout should be disbursed within October four.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday had refused to intervene in the ongoing impasse over payment of bonus to tea garden workers of Darjeeling hills.

She alleged that the deadlock was the result of political disturbances. 
Crime, Politics, West Bengal

Partha Chatterjee Seeks Bail from Supreme Court Amid Ongoing CBI Investigation

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 1, 2024, Kolkata: In a pivotal turn of events, Partha Chatterjee has formally approached the Supreme Court with a plea for bail, igniting discussions around his prolonged incarceration. His lawyer has pointed out that, unlike other defendants such as Anubrata Mondal, who have successfully secured their release, Chatterjee remains behind bars, highlighting a perceived inconsistency in the judicial process.


The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) continues to press charges against Chatterjee, intensifying the scrutiny surrounding his case. Despite the serious allegations, his legal team contends that over two years of detention have yielded no substantial evidence to support the claims made against him. The nature of the charges could lead to a maximum sentence of seven years, raising further questions about the implications of his extended imprisonment without definitive proof.

In response to this pressing situation, the Supreme Court has taken significant action by issuing notices to all parties involved in the case. Chatterjee’s bail application, submitted on September 13, has garnered the Court’s attention, and Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan have underscored the importance of expedited proceedings in the lower courts. They have mandated that the lower court conduct regular hearings, with a scheduled Supreme Court review in just ten days.

Chatterjee’s ongoing detention, despite a lack of conclusive evidence, has sparked widespread concern regarding the fairness and integrity of the judicial system. Advocates and legal experts alike are calling for an immediate reevaluation of his situation, emphasizing the need for justice to be served without unnecessary delay. The outcome of this plea could set a significant precedent in the realm of bail applications and the treatment of defendants awaiting trial in similar circumstances.
Politics, West Bengal

Minister Blames Central Government for Bengal Floods While Distributing Relief Materials

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 30 September 2024, Harishchandrapur:  

As the Phulahar River continues to rise, flooding nearby villages and leaving thousands stranded, West Bengal Minister Tajmul Hossain delivered much-needed relief materials to the affected areas by boat. Accompanied by Harishchandrapur Block 2 BDO Tapas Kumar Pal, Panchayat Samiti President Representative Monirul Alam, Kumedpur Outpost OC Kajal Banerjee, and other local officials, the minister visited the inundated villages along the riverbank.

The persistent rainfall in North Bengal has caused water levels to surge in various rivers, including the Phulahar. This has led to severe flooding in several villages within the Harishchandrapur 2nd Block of Malda district, particularly Daulatnagar, Rashidpur, North Bhakuria, South Bhakuria, Kawadol, and Tatipara. Minister Tajmul Hossain and BDO Tapas Kumar Pal surveyed the flood-hit areas and distributed relief supplies, including polythene sheets, rice, gur, clothing, and other essentials to 250 affected families.

One local resident, Gauri Mandal from North Bhakuria, expressed her fear: “The water is still rising, and we are very scared. The administration has arranged temporary accommodation for us, but many of us are reluctant to leave our homes.”

During his visit, Minister Hossain took the opportunity to criticize the Central Government, accusing it of causing the floods by releasing water into seven districts of South Bengal without informing the West Bengal government. He stated, “We have come to several villages today, including North and South Bhakuria, Kawadol, and Rashidpur, following the Chief Minister’s directives. Relief materials were distributed to about 250 people. While the state government is actively working to support flood victims, the Central Government has once again deprived West Bengal. They released water into South Bengal without consulting our Chief Minister, leading to flooding in multiple districts. Despite this, our Irrigation Department is doing its best to mitigate the impact.”

The situation remains critical as the floodwaters continue to rise, but the state government has assured that relief efforts will continue for those affected.
Politics, West Bengal

TMC Women Unite in 200 km Human Chain Across West Bengal

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KalimNews, September 30, 2024, Kolkata: A significant human chain program was held today in Kolkata, Chinsurah, and Kulpi block, organized by the Mahila Trinamool Congress in various legislative assemblies. Law and Health Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya called for a 200 km human chain across the state, emphasizing women’s empowerment and expressing gratitude for the swift trial of victims in the RG Kar case.


Minister Bhattacharya stated, “I don’t know what the opposition is doing. We are making our demands clear.” She highlighted that the RG Kar case was scheduled for hearing today, with Chief Justice DY Chandrachud confirming that the case would be addressed after 2 PM. The Supreme Court had previously discussed the case on August 27, with the Chief Justice indicating that further hearings would occur based on the state government’s application.

In a related development, the court granted permission for a doctors’ march protesting the RG Kar case. Justice Rajarshi Bharadwaj allowed the march from College Square to Rabindra Sadan on October 1, from 5 PM to 8 PM, while ensuring adequate volunteers are present during the procession.
In Chinsurah, under Hooghly district, women rallied under the slogan “My hand in your hand, we are all with Didi.” This event, initiated by Health Minister Bhattacharya, was organized to express gratitude to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her developmental projects. Various locations in the city, including Mor, Rabindranagar Petrol Pump, Sarat Sarani, and Bali Mor, hosted the “Human Bonding Program.” Trinamool leaders, including Chinsurah MLA Asit Majumdar, participated in these gatherings.

Additionally, the Trinamool Women’s Organization organized a 175 km human chain event today to honor party leader Mamata Banerjee. Women members from 35 districts participated, creating a 5 km chain in each district from noon until afternoon. In Kulpi block, the program was led by local leaders, including Trinamool Congress President Supriya Halder and Youth President Samsur Alam Mir. Participants expressed their support for Banerjee, chanting, “Aarmi Kaat Tukei, we are all with Didi.”

This event marks a concerted effort to unite women across West Bengal in support of their leader and to celebrate the empowerment initiatives undertaken by the state government.
Politics, West Bengal

IMA Takes Action Against Trinamool MLA Humayun Kabir Over Controversial Comments

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, Kolkata: Trinamool MLA Humayun Kabir has once again found himself at the center of controversy following his recent explosive remarks, which include criticism of the junior doctors’ movement related to the RG Kar case. Accusations of intimidation have prompted the Indian Medical Association (IMA) to take a significant step against the MLA from Murshidabad’s Bharatpur constituency.


In a letter addressed to a Supreme Court judge, IMA’s joint secretary Ranjan Bhattacharya highlighted concerns about what he described as a “threat culture” perpetuated by Kabir. The letter emphasizes the need for the safety of medical professionals and the alarming implications of the MLA’s statements. The RG Kar case is scheduled for a hearing in the Supreme Court on Monday, and it is anticipated that this issue may also be raised during the proceedings.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Kabir has reportedly dismissed the concerns raised in the letter. He stated, “We make laws. I know well what is legal and what is not.” In a striking declaration, he added, “If I have to go to jail for someone, then after getting bail, I will gather with 50,000 people. If I am punished for not committing a crime, I will not hesitate to come back and commit a crime.”

The ongoing tensions between the Trinamool Congress and the medical community reflect broader issues of accountability and respect for healthcare professionals in the region. As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the RG Kar case, the implications of Kabir’s remarks and the IMA’s response are likely to resonate throughout the political and medical landscapes of West Bengal.
National, Politics

Two Lashkar Militants Killed, Five Security Personnel Injured in Gunfight in Kulgam

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, New Delhi: The security situation in Jammu and Kashmir intensified over the weekend amid ongoing assembly elections, as two militants from the Lashkar-e-Taiba were killed during a gunfight in Kul village. The encounter took place late Saturday night, resulting in injuries to five security personnel.


According to reports, the incident began when a joint operation was launched by the nine Rashtriya Rifles and local Kashmir Police after intelligence indicated a militant presence in the Arigam village of the Debsar area in Kulgam district. As security forces cordoned off the area, suspected militants opened fire, prompting a swift response from the guards. In the ensuing gunfight, two jihadi militants were killed, and four security personnel, including an officer of ASP rank, sustained injuries.

Police sources indicated that the slain militants were believed to be plotting to incite unrest in the region during the electoral process. A cache of sophisticated firearms and ammunition was recovered from the scene, along with several suspicious documents that could provide further insight into their operations.

The two deceased militants have been identified as local residents: Umesh Wani from Kulgam and Aqib Ahmed Shergajri from Budgam. Both are reportedly affiliated with Lashkar’s offshoot, the Resistance Front, which has been linked to various militant activities in the region.

The recent encounter underscores the challenges facing security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during this crucial election period. Authorities are on high alert as they work to ensure a peaceful voting process amid ongoing threats from militant groups.
Politics, West Bengal

Congress President Subhankar Sarkar Faces Protests at Sagar Dutta Medical College Hospital

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, Kolkata : On Sunday afternoon, Pradesh Congress President Subhankar Sarkar visited Sagar Dutta Medical College Hospital, where junior doctors have been protesting in response to a violent incident that resulted in the death of a patient and subsequent attacks on medical staff. However, upon his arrival, Sarkar encountered a hostile reception, with protestors chanting slogans of “Go back” directed at him.


Despite the tension, Sarkar remained on the premises for a short time, aiming to support the agitating doctors. He later explained to reporters that he approached the hospital without any political affiliation or party flags, wishing to show solidarity with the junior doctors’ movement. “I went to Sagar Dutta without any political flag,” he stated. “I wanted to support the doctors’ protest.”

Witnesses reported that as soon as Sarkar arrived, protestors took to the microphone, urging him to leave. They emphasized, “Those who are trying to use this stage for political reasons, please join hands and request them to go back.” The protests stem from unrest that erupted after a patient died on Friday night, leading to a violent outburst from the deceased’s relatives, who attacked doctors and nurses and vandalized parts of the hospital.

Since that incident, junior doctors at Sagar Dutta Hospital have been on strike, demanding safer working conditions and justice for their colleagues. In an effort to distance themselves from political agendas, the junior doctors asserted, “Just as doctors do not look at the religion or caste of the patient during treatment, they also do not have any political identity.”

Responding to the protestors’ chants, Sarkar insisted that they did not explicitly tell him to leave, stating, “I went and talked to them. They thanked us for not bringing the flag.” The incident highlights the complex intersection of healthcare and politics in the state, as junior doctors continue to advocate for their rights and safety in the wake of recent violence.
Economy, Politics, Regional, West Bengal

Chief Minister Visits Flood-Hit North Bengal, Blames Central Government for Flooding

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KalimNews, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, Kolkata: As the Durga Puja festivities approach, vast areas of North Bengal are grappling with severe flooding. The situation has escalated into chaos, affecting regions from Malda in the plains to Kalimpong in the hills and Darjeeling. National Highway 10 has been closed, disrupting normal communication and transport.


Amid this crisis, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has embarked on a visit to North Bengal to assess the unfolding disaster. Before her journey, she expressed frustration at the central government, stating, “No one has inquired about the flood situation in Bengal.” She fears that conditions may deteriorate further due to anticipated releases of water from rivers in Nepal.

Banerjee attributed much of the flooding to the lack of dredging at the Farakka Barrage, which has led to significant silt accumulation and reduced water storage capacity. “There has been no help from the central government to address the flood situation in the state. No one has paid a single penny or even looked our way,” she declared. Several areas of North Bengal are currently inundated due to the Koshi River, with water starting to flow into Bengal through Bihar, exacerbating the crisis.

The flooding has severely impacted communication between Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Mirik in Sikkim. The Chief Minister highlighted that the rising water levels of the Sankosh River have caused floods in Malda, further endangering nearby regions.

Forecasts from the Meteorological Department indicate that more rain is expected in the coming days, which could worsen the already dire situation. “Some new areas may become inundated,” Banerjee warned. She noted that approximately 500,000 cusecs of water from the Koshi River has been released from Nepal, threatening further flooding in Malda, Murshidabad, Itahar in South Dinajpur, and other large areas.

In light of these developments, the Chief Minister has directed local administrations to implement evacuation protocols and issue warnings to residents. Additionally, she pointed out that Nepal is also suffering from heavy rains, contributing to the widespread flooding across the region.

“The entire country is grappling with this crisis, yet Bengal is the only state that has been deprived of necessary flood compensation,” Banerjee emphasized. As North Bengal continues to face this unprecedented challenge, the call for urgent assistance and intervention from the central government grows louder.
National, Politics

Election Commission to Introduce New Rules for Enhanced Voting Transparency

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Calcutta – In a significant move towards ensuring transparent elections, the Election Commission of India is set to implement new rules aimed at improving voter identification and addressing concerns over fraudulent voting practices. Following persistent scrutiny regarding the integrity of electoral processes, the Commission is taking proactive measures to bolster transparency and accuracy.


Key among these new regulations is the mandatory linking of Aadhaar cards with voter IDs. Voters will be required to present both their Aadhaar card and voter ID at polling booths, where machines will verify the linkage. If a voter’s Aadhaar is not already linked, they can complete the process on-site, enhancing accessibility and efficiency.

This initiative aims to create accurate voter lists and root out the presence of fake voters—issues that have plagued recent elections. Reports of deceased individuals still listed as eligible voters have raised alarms, prompting the Commission to act decisively. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections have underscored the need for reform, as discrepancies in voter lists have come to light.

The Election Commission has scheduled the revision of voter lists from November 12 to December this year, with a new list expected to be published by January. These changes will be rolled out before the draft voter list is finalized, marking a crucial step in the Commission’s ongoing commitment to uphold electoral integrity and public confidence in the democratic process.
Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Youth Leader Rajanya Halder Questions Party Suspension Over Film on RG Tax Incident

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Calcutta – Trinamool Congress youth leader Rajanya Halder has been suspended for producing a film about the controversial RG tax incident, deemed “anti-party.” The film’s producer and Halder’s husband, Thanhik Chakraborty, also a leader within the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad, has faced similar consequences. Despite their suspensions, both Halder and Chakraborty remain steadfast in their commitment to the short film project.


The controversy erupted following the release of the film’s poster on Friday, which has drawn criticism from within the party. Trinamool Congress leaders have expressed disapproval, arguing that creating a film on such a sensitive topic undermines the party’s stance. However, Halder has publicly stated that they will not alter their film, emphasizing, “No changes are being made in our project.”

In a defiant response to her suspension, Halder questioned the party’s decision-making process. “It was not a matter of taking permission from the party!” she declared. She further challenged the standards applied to her case by asking, “When Kunal Ghosh writes songs or when Dev makes movies, do they seek permission from the team?” Halder argued that filmmakers should be allowed the creative freedom to portray relevant historical contexts without seeking prior approval, asserting that such restrictions would diminish the significance of their work.

This situation underscores the tensions within the Trinamool Congress as it grapples with dissent from its ranks over creative expression and political sensitivity. The outcome of this controversy remains to be seen as both Halder and Chakraborty continue to advocate for their project amidst increasing scrutiny.
National, Politics

Bengaluru Court Orders FIR Against Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, New Delhi – A Bengaluru court has mandated the filing of an FIR against Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over allegations involving the collection of electoral bonds. The complaint, brought forth by Adarsh Iyer of the Janadhakar Sankash organization in Karnataka, claims that corporate entities were coerced into purchasing significant amounts of electoral bonds under duress related to an ongoing ED investigation.

In light of these allegations, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has demanded Sitharaman’s resignation from the Union Cabinet and has also filed complaints against other prominent BJP figures, including Nalin Kumar Katil, BY Vijayendra, and BJP national president JP Nadda. Iyer’s allegations suggest involvement from both national and state-level BJP leaders.

The BJP has strongly refuted these claims, labeling them as politically motivated and asserting that electoral bonds represent a policy issue rather than a criminal offense. The party has continued to target Siddaramaiah over accusations of land corruption.

Recent data from the State Bank of India indicates that ₹6,986.5 crore has been deposited in the electoral bond fund associated with the BJP. In a counter-response, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, “63% of the income from electoral bonds went to opposition parties, while the BJP received only 37%. Why, then, are the opposition pointing fingers at us?” This ongoing political drama highlights the contentious nature of electoral finance in India as the nation gears up for upcoming elections.

Politics, West Bengal

State Government Faces Scrutiny from Calcutta High Court Over Kolkata Police Notification

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 27, 2024, Calcutta: The state government is once again under the spotlight as the Calcutta High Court raises questions about a notification issued by the Kolkata Police. The notification, released by Lalbazar (the Kolkata Police headquarters), places restrictions on gatherings in a large section of central Kolkata, sparking controversy and legal challenges.


The notice, which prohibits the assembly of more than five people in certain key areas of the city, has become a focal point of legal debate. The restricted zones include Boubazar, Hare Street, Traffic Guard, and the Headquarters area—all centered around the bustling Dharmatala region. According to the notification, these restrictions are set to be in place from September 25 to November 23, 2024, a period that overlaps with several major festivals, including Durga Puja.

The state government faced tough questions during a hearing on Friday, presided over by Justice Rajshree Bharadwaj of the Calcutta High Court. The central issue revolved around whether the state would reconsider or withdraw the police notification, especially given the upcoming festive season, which typically draws large crowds. Justice Bharadwaj pointedly asked, “Is there any reason to withdraw this notification, or will all pujas in the area have to be stopped?”

The timing of the notification, issued just days before the start of Durga Puja preparations, has raised several concerns, particularly among community organizers. The restriction on gatherings has been seen by some as an attempt to curb potential protests during the festive period, sparking confusion and speculation about the motive behind the move.

The state’s counsel responded to the court, noting that such restrictions, including the enforcement of Section 163, have historically been in place in areas like KC Das to Victoria House, even in past years. However, the state also acknowledged that this year’s notification has introduced an extended enforcement area, including the Bentinck Street area, which has led to some confusion.

Advocate Vikas Ranjan Bhattacharya, representing the petitioners, raised concerns about the impact of the police directive on the numerous pujas and community celebrations held within the restricted zones. The court sought clarification from the state on how these restrictions would affect the festive proceedings in police stations where major pujas are organized.

The notification has drawn criticism for potentially disrupting the city’s biggest cultural and religious events, and many argue that the timing of its enforcement is poorly planned. Several civic groups and political commentators have questioned whether the move is aimed at stifling political protests rather than addressing public safety, adding a layer of complexity to the legal proceedings.

As tensions rise over the notification, the Calcutta High Court has scheduled another hearing on the matter for next Monday, where further arguments will be presented. The outcome of this case could have significant implications not only for the state government but also for the city’s cultural landscape during one of the most important festival seasons of the year. 
National, Politics

Rahul Gandhi Takes on Major Responsibility as Member of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defense

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 27, 2024, New Delhi: Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has been entrusted with a significant new responsibility as a member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defense. This appointment marks a return for Gandhi, who previously served on the committee. The Rajya Sabha Secretariat officially announced the formation of various parliamentary committees, revealing a reshuffling of key figures in crucial roles.


Apart from Gandhi, notable appointments were made, including Bollywood actress and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, who has been made a member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology. Joining her on this committee are Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan and Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, making the panel a diverse mix of political and public figures.

Rahul Gandhi’s appointment to the defense committee is seen as an acknowledgment of his growing role in national politics, particularly in matters of national security and defense. The defense committee will be headed by BJP MP Radhamohan Singh, and Gandhi’s inclusion signals his continued influence in critical policy discussions.

In addition to Gandhi, several other prominent MPs from the Congress party have been appointed to key parliamentary committees. Congress MP and former Foreign Minister Shashi Tharoor has been appointed as the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, underscoring his expertise in international relations.

The Congress party has also secured responsibilities in other important committees, including those on Education, Women and Child Welfare, Youth, and Sports. Veteran Congress leader Digvijay Singh will lead the Education, Women and Child Welfare committee, reflecting the party’s strategic placement in areas of social and educational policy.

However, notably absent from any committee is seven-time MP and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, raising questions about her reduced role in parliamentary affairs. This has sparked speculation about the future direction of leadership within the Congress party and her involvement moving forward.

Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has also made significant strides in parliamentary representation. Veteran TMC MP Dola Sen has been named chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee. In addition, Burdwan-Durgapur MP and former national cricketer Keerti Azad has been appointed as the chairman of the standing committee under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, giving the former sports star an important role in shaping policy within this sector.

These appointments come at a critical time as the newly-formed standing committees are expected to play a pivotal role in addressing pressing issues related to defense, foreign affairs, education, and other key sectors in the upcoming parliamentary sessions. With Rahul Gandhi’s return to the Defense Committee and other key appointments, the Congress is positioning itself for an active and influential role in shaping policy and legislation.
National, Politics

Yogi Adityanath’s Bold Claim: “India Will Reclaim Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir if BJP Returns to Power in Jammu & Kashmir”

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 27, 2024, New Delhi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made a powerful and controversial statement during a BJP election rally in the RS Pura area of Jammu, declaring that India will reclaim Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) once the BJP comes to power in Jammu and Kashmir. His remarks have sparked intense political discussions and drawn national attention as the final phase of elections in the region approaches.


While addressing the crowd, Adityanath asserted, “Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir is an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir. The process of bringing PoK under Indian control will commence only when the BJP returns to power in Jammu and Kashmir.” His bold declaration was framed as a direct threat to Pakistan, with the Chief Minister emphasizing India’s readiness to assert control over the disputed territory.

He further added, “India stands strong, while Pakistan is on the brink of collapse. Today, it is clear to the world that Pakistan is bankrupt, its people are protesting in the streets, and the government is struggling to manage its affairs.” Adityanath highlighted the stark contrast between the two nations, portraying Pakistan as a failing state beset by internal strife and economic instability.

In an even more scathing attack, Adityanath labeled Pakistan as the “enemy of humanity” and referred to it as the “cancer of humanity.” He went on to claim that people worldwide are now calling for the eradication of this “cancer,” reinforcing his position that Pakistan is not only a threat to India but to global stability.

These remarks come at a critical time, with the third and final phase of elections in Jammu and Kashmir heating up. Yogi Adityanath’s fiery rhetoric is seen as a rallying cry to BJP supporters, pushing a strong nationalist agenda and positioning the BJP as the party that can secure Jammu and Kashmir’s future—including taking decisive action on Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

Political analysts view this statement as a high-stakes strategy aimed at consolidating nationalist sentiment and energizing BJP’s base in a region crucial to India’s security and sovereignty. However, the statement has also ignited debates among opposition parties, some of whom have accused the BJP of escalating tensions with Pakistan for electoral gains.

In recent years, the status of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir has been a topic of great sensitivity in Indian politics, particularly since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status. Adityanath’s speech signals the BJP’s continued hardline stance on the Kashmir issue, reinforcing its commitment to territorial integrity and national security.

As the political temperature rises ahead of the elections, Adityanath’s statement has added a new dimension to the ongoing discourse about Jammu and Kashmir’s future and the geopolitical relationship between India and Pakistan.