Category Archives: Politics

Mamata reaffirms commitment to serve farmers on ‘Krishak Divas’

MP, 16 Mar 2025, Kolkata: Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Friday, took to her X handle to highlight her government’s various initiatives aimed at supporting farmers in the state. She reaffirmed her government’s dedication to their welfare. 

The Trinamool Congress has been observing March 14 as ‘Krishak Divas’ annually in remembrance of the 14 farmers who lost their lives in Nandigram, East Midnapore, during the 2007 anti-land acquisition movement. 
Recognising the relentless efforts of farmers, Banerjee lauded their hard work and described them as “our pride.” 
“We try to the best of our ability within our limited capacity so that our farmer brothers and sisters of Bengal are supported befittingly. We provide financial assistance under the ‘Krishak Bandhu’ scheme, compensation in the event of death while working, bearing the full cost of crop insurance premiums, financial assistance in case of natural calamities,” she wrote on the social media handle. 
Elaborating on the other measures, she maintained that her government procures paddy from the farmers at a fair price to stop the distress sale of crops. Other initiatives include providing farmer pensions and setting up 186 ‘Kisan Mandis’ to facilitate better market access and providing agricultural machinery at a subsidized rate to ease their workload. 
Banerjee stated that her government launched the ‘Bangla Sashya Bima’ (Bengal Crop Insurance Project) in 2019. “In the days to come, our government will continue to stand by our farmer friends in this manner,” Banerjee asserted. 
The state government has recently disbursed Rs 351 crore under Bangla Sasya Bima (BSB) to over 9 lakh farmers whose paddy cultivation was affected by natural calamities during the Kharif season last year. 
Cyclone Dana that made its landfall in the Odisha coast at the end of October last year affected paddy cultivation in a number of South Bengal districts by bringing in heavy rainfall. Some days before the cyclone, the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) had allegedly released water that inundated parts of Howrah, Hooghly and East Burdwan. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/mamata-reaffirms-commitment-to-serve-farmers-on-krishak-divas-602480

TMC MLA Humayun Kabir Defends Remarks, Refuses to Apologize in Show-Cause Reply

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 16, 2025, Kolkata : Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA from Bharatpur, Murshidabad, Humayun Kabir, on Saturday submitted his response to the show-cause notice issued by the party’s disciplinary committee. The notice was issued under the directive of TMC chairperson and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, following Kabir’s remarks on religion, which had stirred controversy.

State Parliamentary Affairs Minister Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, who also chairs the disciplinary committee, confirmed receipt of Kabir’s response and stated that the committee would review it in a meeting on Monday before making a final decision. Sources revealed that Kabir did not offer an apology, asserting that his statements did not violate the party’s disciplinary norms. He maintained that his comments were made in defense of his community and were in response to statements by Leader of Opposition (LoP) Suvendu Adhikari, which he deemed objectionable.

Kabir had initially requested an extension until Monday to submit his response but ultimately sent a two-page reply via WhatsApp on Saturday morning. In his statement, he justified his remarks and reiterated his commitment to defending his religious community against any attacks. He further stated that he prioritized his community over party obligations, emphasizing that his words did not tarnish the party’s image.

The controversy stems from Kabir’s strong reaction to Adhikari’s alleged comments targeting Muslim MLAs in the ruling party. On Thursday, Kabir had demanded an apology or retraction from Adhikari within 72 hours, warning of consequences in the Assembly if the demand was not met. He had previously stated that 42 Muslim MLAs of TMC would collectively respond to Adhikari’s remarks if he failed to apologize.

Chattopadhyay has also instructed Kabir to submit a hard copy of his response, after which the disciplinary committee will deliberate on the matter. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly condemned Adhikari’s statements, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of introducing divisive religious politics into West Bengal. The situation is expected to intensify as the Assembly session resumes on Monday, with both parties holding firm on their positions.

Indian Journalists Union Condemns Arrest of Two Women Journalists in Telangana

KalimNews, New Delhi, March 13, 2025 : The Indian Journalists Union (IJU) has strongly condemned the arrest of two women journalists, P Revathi, Managing Director of the online news channel Pulse News, and reporter Bandi Sandhya. The Hyderabad Cyber Crime police detained them on March 12, citing their alleged circulation of a video containing defamatory content against the ruling Congress government and Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy. The journalists have been charged under various sections of the IT Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), with the police claiming that the case involves political motivations.

According to the police, the video in question was posted on social media platform X and was allegedly recorded at the office of the Opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) party in Banjara Hills. Authorities claim the video was funded by the BRS and was posted following a complaint by the Congress state secretary of social media. The video featured a provocative interview with an individual making controversial remarks, leading to an FIR under sections 111, 61(2), 353(2), and 352 of BNS, along with section 67 of the IT Act, which pertains to publishing or circulating false information, rumors, or content intended to provoke a breach of peace.

The police have also accused the journalists of involvement in prior cases of social media trolling. They claim the video was recorded in February but started circulating online from March 10, just before the Telangana Assembly’s Budget session on March 12. A search of the journalists’ office led to the seizure of laptops, hard disks, and CPUs as part of the investigation. Revathi had previously posted on X urging people not to share the video, fearing legal repercussions. Meanwhile, the BRS party has condemned the arrests, arguing that the video merely amplified the grievances of a common citizen against the government.

In a joint statement, IJU President Geetartha Pathak, a former member of the Press Council of India, and Secretary General Sabina Inderjit, who also serves as Vice President of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), criticized the swift action by the cyber police against the so-called trolling of the Chief Minister, labeling it a politically motivated move. They noted that women journalists across the country frequently face online harassment, yet law enforcement agencies have not acted against the perpetrators. The IJU emphasized that the video expressed a citizen’s concerns and that arresting journalists for performing their duty is unacceptable. The Union has demanded the immediate withdrawal of all charges and the release of Revathi and Sandhya, reiterating its call for press freedom and the protection of journalists from political persecution.

Haldia MLA Tapsee Mandal Joins Trinamool Congress, Receives Key Government Role

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 13, 2025, Kolkata :  In a significant political shift ahead of the 26th assembly elections, Haldia MLA Tapsee Mandal has left the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC), citing her opposition to the BJP’s alleged divisive policies. Her defection strengthens the ruling party’s position and has been followed by a key appointment as Chairperson of the State Women’s Development Board, as announced through an official notification from Vikas Bhavan.


Mandal, who was previously aligned with BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, formally switched parties in the presence of senior TMC leader Arup Biswas. Holding the party flag, she declared her intent to work for the development of Haldia and emphasized that progress cannot be achieved through division but rather by collective efforts. Soon after joining the party, she visited Kalighat to meet Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who advised her to work diligently in her new role.

Political analysts suggest that Mandal’s swift appointment to a prominent government position may be a strategic reward for her defection. Her move underscores the ongoing political realignments in West Bengal as parties prepare for the upcoming elections. The development marks another shift in the state’s dynamic political landscape, with TMC consolidating its influence while BJP faces internal challenges.

BJP Faces Crisis in West Bengal as MLAs Defect Ahead of Presidential Election

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, March 12, 2025 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the principal opposition party in West Bengal, is currently grappling with a growing crisis as a wave of defections weakens its position in the state. In the lead-up to the presidential election, multiple BJP MLAs have abandoned the party to join the Trinamool Congress (TMC), significantly reducing the BJP’s strength in the state assembly.


In the 2021 assembly elections, the BJP secured 77 seats, but the number of its MLAs has steadily declined since then. Initially, the resignation of two MLAs dropped the BJP’s tally to 75, but the defections have continued, leaving the party with just 65 MLAs. This loss has come amid the death of one MLA and another’s election to the Lok Sabha. With this shrinking number, the BJP now faces considerable challenges ahead of the next assembly elections, scheduled to take place in 2026.

The ongoing defections have placed significant pressure on the party’s top leadership, particularly Shuvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition, and Sukanta Majumdar, the State President. Both leaders are facing increasing scrutiny for their inability to stem the tide of defections and maintain party unity. As the number of BJP MLAs dwindles, questions are being raised about the leadership’s effectiveness in handling the crisis.

In addition to the current 65 MLAs, sources within the BJP suggest that there are concerns about the future of another 8 party members, with discussions about possible defections to the Trinamool Congress. Should these MLAs leave the party, the BJP’s situation in West Bengal could become even more dire, further complicating its strategy for the upcoming elections.

The defection of Taapsee Mandal, a prominent BJP MLA, has further escalated the crisis. Mandal attended the assembly on Monday but later quietly joined the Trinamool Congress, signaling yet another blow to the BJP’s credibility and unity. His defection has underscored the growing dissatisfaction within the party ranks and the difficulty in retaining its members.

With the state BJP’s presidential election scheduled to take place this year, the new president will face a daunting task. The leadership will need to address the party’s internal crisis, prevent further defections, and reorganize the party to present a strong challenge in the upcoming assembly elections. The pressure to maintain the party’s relevance in West Bengal is mounting, and the new leadership will have to act swiftly to regain control of the situation.

Shuvendu Adhikari Predicts BJP Victory in Bengal, Criticizes Trinamool Government Over Religious Allegations

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, March 12, 2025 : In a bold declaration, Leader of the Opposition Shuvendu Adhikari predicted that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will come to power in West Bengal in the upcoming assembly elections, which are set to take place in ten months. Addressing the media outside the assembly on Tuesday, Adhikari not only forecasted the BJP’s victory but also laid out what he described as the party’s “agenda” after coming to power.


Adhikari’s comments extended beyond mere political forecasts, as he sharply criticized the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) government. He accused the TMC of being a “communal government” with a “communal police force” and referred to them as “Muslim League Two.” The opposition leader claimed that the actions of the government were both reckless and unconstitutional, alleging an intentional effort to undermine the Hindu community in Bengal. He pointed to what he called the arrogance of the ruling party, drawing a parallel with the recent downfall of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi, which he said had suffered due to similar behavior.

The BJP leader’s criticism extended to issues surrounding religious intolerance. According to Adhikari, the Trinamool government was violating constitutional provisions meant to protect religious sites. He specifically accused the government of neglecting the protection of Hindu temples, citing incidents over the past few days where temples were allegedly demolished, and idols broken in areas such as Baruipur, Tamluk’s Serampur, and Basirhat. He also claimed that Hindu homes in Murshidabad had been attacked, with no arrests made by the police. Adhikari’s statements highlighted his concerns that religious freedoms were being systematically violated under the current administration.

During the assembly session on Tuesday, the BJP proposed an adjournment motion to raise these allegations, but it was rejected by the Speaker, prompting protests from BJP members. The Speaker’s refusal to include the issue in the assembly record led to further unrest, with BJP MLAs climbing the walls and tearing papers in protest. Adhikari later criticized the Speaker for failing to uphold the rights of the opposition, accusing the government of suppressing dissent and engaging in “narrow politics” in the name of religion.

Despite the tensions in the assembly, Adhikari remained resolute in his prediction that the BJP will triumph in the upcoming elections. He boldly stated that, following the election victory, the Muslim MLAs from Trinamool Congress would be removed from the assembly.

The ongoing political struggle in West Bengal continues to heighten as both the ruling and opposition parties prepare for the decisive electoral battle that will determine the future of the state.

Shuvendu’s Decision to Open Office in Bhavanipur Sparks Speculation Ahead of 2026 Assembly Elections


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 7, 2025, Kolkata :  In a move that has stirred up political discussions ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, BJP MLA Shuvendu Adhikari from Nandigram has decided to open a party office in Bhavanipur, a seat that was once considered a stronghold of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The office will be inaugurated on May 1, and a team of over 100 workers is being formed to gather critical information about the area. The development has raised questions about Shuvendu’s strategic focus on Bhavanipur, especially after his previous comments suggesting that Bhavanipur is a much safer seat for him than Nandigram.

The office will be located in ward number 73, which is a key part of the Bhavanipur assembly constituency. This area is also the Chief Minister’s own voting ward, adding to the significance of Shuvendu’s decision to set up a base there. Political observers have pointed out that Shuvendu’s focus on Bhavanipur indicates his preparations for a potential contest in the constituency in 2026.

Bhavanipur has traditionally been a stronghold for Mamata Banerjee, who has represented the constituency since becoming Chief Minister in 2011, except for a brief period during the 2021 Assembly elections. However, the dynamics have shifted following the results of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where the BJP showed significant progress in several wards of Bhavanipur. The BJP led in five out of the eight wards of the area, including wards 63, 70, 71, 72, and 74, while the Trinamool was ahead in wards 73, 77, and 82.

The BJP’s success in these wards, particularly in the ward where Mamata Banerjee is a voter, has fueled speculation about the competitiveness of Bhavanipur in the upcoming elections. In ward 73, the BJP was only 279 votes behind the Trinamool in the last Lok Sabha elections, further intensifying the political rivalry.

Shuvendu’s decision to open an office in a constituency that has long been Mamata Banerjee’s stronghold signals his growing interest in challenging her dominance in Bhavanipur. With less Muslim representation and a higher proportion of non-Bengali voters, Bhavanipur presents a unique opportunity for the BJP, particularly given the party’s strong showing in recent elections.

As the 2026 Assembly elections approach, all eyes will be on Bhavanipur to see whether Shuvendu can leverage his party’s momentum and make a serious challenge to Mamata Banerjee’s political fortress. The contest in Bhavanipur is expected to be a closely watched and highly contested battle, with both sides preparing for what could be a significant electoral showdown.

Trinamool Intensifies Voter List Scrutiny Efforts Ahead of 2026 Elections, Abhishek Banerjee to Lead Virtual Meeting


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 7, 2025, Kolkata :  As part of its preparations for the 2026 Assembly elections, the Trinamool Congress has ramped up efforts to ensure accuracy in the voter list, separating legitimate voters from those whose names might belong to other states. Party supremo Mamata Banerjee and other party leaders have consistently raised concerns about the inclusion of voters from other states in West Bengal’s electoral roll. This issue was addressed with urgency during the mega meeting held on February 27, where a strong message was sent regarding the matter.

A 36-member committee, led by Trinamool state president Subrata Bakshi, was formed to oversee the revision and scrutiny of the voter list across the state. The committee met on Thursday at Trinamool Bhavan to review progress and discuss further steps. However, Abhishek Banerjee, one of the key members of the committee, was not present at the meeting due to prior commitments. Despite this absence, the leadership confirmed that he would lead a virtual meeting with party officials on March 15 to review the work done so far.

Sources revealed that during the meeting on Thursday, it was announced that the virtual discussion with Abhishek Banerjee would be held at 4 pm on March 15. All members of the state committee, district presidents, and leadership from various branches have been instructed to attend the meeting, where reports from each district will be evaluated and presented to the party leader.

While there was speculation surrounding Abhishek Banerjee’s absence from Thursday’s meeting, Trinamool spokesperson Jayaprakash Majumdar clarified that the meeting scheduled for March 15 would be virtual, and hence, there was no need for Abhishek to be physically present at Trinamool Bhavan. Majumdar emphasized that each member of the committee has been assigned specific districts to focus on for the revision of the voter list. Subrata Bakshi will personally oversee the work in South Kolkata, while Abhishek Banerjee is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the voter list in South 24 Parganas district.

This move by the Trinamool Congress signals the party’s heightened focus on ensuring the integrity of the voter list ahead of the 2026 elections, reinforcing their commitment to fair and transparent electoral processes.

Trinamool’s Mahila Wing Set for March 8 Procession Ahead of International Women’s Day, Pay Tribute to Mamata Banerjee


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 7, 2025, Kolkata :  Bengal is setting a significant example of women’s empowerment across India, thanks to the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. From the increased participation of women in the state’s political landscape to the record-breaking presence of female representatives in Parliament, the progress is undeniable. Under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership, women in Bengal have found a stronger voice, and as the state prepares for the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections, the ruling Trinamool Congress is leaving no stone unturned to maintain this momentum.

On the eve of International Women’s Day, March 8, the Mahila Trinamool wing of the party is gearing up for a major street procession to celebrate the achievements of women in Bengal and to pay tribute to Mamata Banerjee, who is aiming for a historic fourth term as Chief Minister. This show of strength is part of the party’s broader strategy, which has already gained traction after their impressive performance in the 24th Lok Sabha elections. The procession, which will take place across the state, will be a unified expression of women’s empowerment, with women’s MLAs and MPs including Chandrima Bhattacharya and Shashi Panja at the forefront.

According to Trinamool sources, the procession will begin at 4 pm, following a gathering at Rabindra Sadan at 3 pm on Saturday. The march will stretch from Rabindra Sadan to Dorina Crossing. However, with the ongoing higher secondary exams in the state, the procession will be conducted with utmost sensitivity to the examination schedule. The women’s Trinamool will forgo the usual slogans and speeches via microphone, instead focusing on a peaceful demonstration with posters and hoardings.

The procession will not be confined to Kolkata alone. Similar events will unfold in districts across the state, with the same posters, slogans, and themes, showcasing a unified effort to honor the contribution of women, led by the Chief Minister.

This initiative comes at a time when the state’s political narrative is focusing heavily on women’s issues, with the party planning new slogans and posters that reflect the growing empowerment of women in Bengal. As the Trinamool Congress intensifies its preparations for the next assembly elections, this demonstration is a clear statement of their commitment to continuing the progress they have made under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership. The party is determined to further strengthen its base, particularly among female voters, in the lead-up to 2026.

Jadavpur University Incident Raises Concerns Over Student Unrest and Political Undercurrents, Court Calls for Vigilance


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 7, 2025, Kolkata :  In the aftermath of the events at Jadavpur University last Saturday and Sunday, a growing debate has emerged about whether these incidents were mere coincidences or part of a larger, more purposeful unrest. Justice Tirthankar Ghosh has criticized the failure of both the intelligence department and the police administration in handling the situation, expressing concerns that if left unchecked, such chaos could escalate across the state. The judge’s warnings are particularly significant, given that the upcoming assembly elections are fast approaching, with the police needing to remain highly vigilant.

Justice Ghosh also highlighted the potential dangers of protesters getting too close to those under police protection, comparing the situation to the instability seen in neighboring states. He emphasized that both sides of the conflict need to take responsibility, as once chaos ensues, it becomes difficult to regain control. However, he did not address the underlying issue that may have contributed to the incident—the delayed student elections in colleges and universities across West Bengal. If these elections had been held on time, it is argued, the situation at Jadavpur University may never have arisen.

The absence of student elections has left a power vacuum in student organizations, which are often seen as anti-institutional. In this context, fair elections could potentially result in outcomes unfavorable to the ruling party, raising suspicions that political maneuvering may be at play. The BJP has echoed this sentiment, with Sukanta Majumdar accusing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of attempting to revive the SFI (Students Federation of India) and, by extension, the CPI(M). Majumdar also warned that Hindus in West Bengal were becoming increasingly concerned about a potential “Bangladesh ‘Part Two'” scenario, fearing that their votes were being divided, potentially paving the way for a BJP-led government.

In response to these political accusations, the SFI has vehemently denied any such allegations. They maintain that their discussions with the Education Minister centered around university elections, and that the events at Jadavpur University were fueled by a specific incident involving a student being injured in the Education Minister’s car.

Despite these political debates, one thing is clear: the anti-government student movement in West Bengal has been gaining momentum since the RG Kar incident. The court, in its observations, referenced the situation in neighboring Bangladesh, where student unrest had been manipulated by separatist and extremist forces, leading to significant political instability. The court’s warning serves as a reminder of the volatile situation that could unfold if similar unrest were to spread in West Bengal.

Only time will tell how these events will evolve, but it is clear that the political, social, and security landscape of West Bengal is currently at a delicate crossroads. The state government must take heed of these warnings and address the root causes of student unrest before the situation spirals further out of control.

Subhendu Adhikari Accuses Trinamool of Inserting Fake Voters, Demands Biometric Voting System

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : A political firestorm erupted over voter list allegations as Subhendu Adhikari, the leader of the opposition, made serious claims against the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). Following Mamata Banerjee’s accusations on Thursday about “ghost voters” in Netaji Indoor, Adhikari escalated the controversy by alleging that Trinamool has been systematically adding false names to the voter list. In a pointed attack, he claimed that the TMC has been inserting names of illegal voters, including Rohingya Muslims and infiltrators from neighboring Bangladesh, particularly in border districts like Murshidabad and Malda.


Adhikari’s remarks came after he met with the Chief Election Commissioner on Friday evening to discuss the issue. He accused the Election Commission of failing to act on repeated complaints about fake voter registrations. He specifically highlighted the BJP’s ongoing efforts to expose the presence of Rohingya Muslims in the voter list, claiming that despite submitting over 15,000 pages of complaints, the Election Commission has done nothing to address the matter.

The Opposition Leader also criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in strong terms, calling out her government for allegedly manipulating the electoral process. In his statement, Adhikari suggested that the way forward to resolve these issues is by linking Aadhaar cards to Elector’s Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) to ensure voter authenticity. He argued that if the Aadhaar system can be used for ration distribution, there is no reason why it cannot be employed in the election process. He called for biometric voting machines to be introduced in West Bengal to verify voters and prevent manipulation.

Adhikari’s demands reflect growing tensions between the opposition and the ruling party, with both sides accusing each other of undermining the integrity of the electoral process. As the state approaches the 2026 assembly elections, these allegations are likely to continue to fuel political debate and scrutiny over voter registration practices in West Bengal.

Congress Strengthens Organizational Base Ahead of 2026 Elections, Targets Independent Fight

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : In a significant message to the party workers, the Congress leadership has emphasized the need to focus on strengthening the organization in preparation for the 2026 assembly elections. During a one-day visit to Kolkata on Saturday, Ghulam Mir, the state Congress observer, underscored the importance of building the party’s foundation at the grassroots level before considering alliances with other parties. He conveyed that the party’s priority should be to enhance its own strength, positioning Congress as a key player capable of negotiating any future political collaborations.


Speaking at a political workshop at the Vidhan Bhavan, Mir stated, “We have to increase our value. We need to place ourselves in a position where, if other parties want to join with Congress, we can negotiate terms on our own.” His message was clear: Congress must first build a robust organizational structure before contemplating any compromises or alliances with other political forces.

Mir directed the workers to focus on strengthening the party at the booth level, stressing that a strong local presence is essential to mounting a successful electoral campaign. However, workers voiced concerns that during elections, the ruling party in the state often prevents Congress agents from being posted at booths, using intimidation tactics. In response, Ghulam Mir assured that the top leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, or Mallikarjun Kharge, could visit Kolkata in the lead-up to the elections. However, he emphasized that a committee must first be established at the booth level for the party to move forward effectively.

The workshop also saw the participation of prominent Congress leaders, including Adhir Chowdhury, Pradeep Bhattacharya, Subhankar Sarkar, and Abhijit Mukherjee. Adhir Chowdhury and Pradeep Bhattacharya were vocal in their criticism of both the Trinamool Congress and the BJP, accusing them of engaging in communal politics that threatens the democratic fabric of Bengal.

Another key issue discussed was the “ghost voter” controversy, which has been a point of contention between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP. While Trinamool has alleged that the BJP is manipulating the voter list by registering fake or “ghost” voters, Congress has taken a slightly different stance. Mir stated that the priority should be to remove the names of deceased individuals from the electoral rolls, rather than focusing solely on allegations of voter manipulation. He called for a thorough cleaning of the voter list to ensure its accuracy and integrity.

As the 2026 assembly elections approach, Congress appears focused on building a strong foundation within the state, with a clear emphasis on organizational growth and a commitment to fighting the elections independently. The leadership’s strategy to strengthen booth-level operations signals a determined push to improve the party’s performance in the upcoming polls.

Mamata Banerjee Leads Statewide Drive to Tackle ‘Ghost Voters,’ TMC Launches House-to-House Survey

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has launched a vigorous campaign to combat what she termed as “ghost voters” ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. The initiative was prompted by Banerjee’s recent allegations that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is manipulating voter lists with the help of the Election Commission of India (ECI), particularly in districts across the state. Banerjee accused the BJP of enrolling non-local individuals as voters by exploiting data entry operators working for the ECI. The Chief Minister claimed that agencies such as the “Association of Brilliant Minds” and “India 360” were involved in these manipulations.


On Thursday, Banerjee directed the party to begin a thorough, state-wide house-to-house survey to identify and remove “fake voters” from the rolls. In Hooghly, Kolkata Mayor and state Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim was seen personally going door-to-door with Trinamool workers in the Chetla area, examining voter lists. Hakim emphasized the need to verify every voter, pointing out that the process would take two weeks, with a final list of real voters, fake voters, deceased voters, and those who had left the locality yet remained on the list to be submitted to the Election Commission.

In Barasat, former minister Jyotipriya Mallick led a meeting to address similar concerns about fake voters, and party workers there are also set to visit households, closely scrutinizing voter details. In Cooch Behar, Trinamool District President Abhijit De Bhowmik sparked controversy when he claimed that a voter from Uttar Pradesh was fraudulently listed under a Bengali voter’s EPIC number. He shared documents online to support his claim, which was immediately disputed by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, who dismissed the allegations as false.

The drive also saw participation from other Trinamool leaders across the state. North Bengal Development Minister Udayan Guha joined local councillors in Dinhata to ensure voter list accuracy, while Swapan Kumar Nandi, the chairperson of the Arambagh municipality board, conducted similar checks in his constituency.

These actions come after Banerjee accused the BJP of attempting to manipulate electoral rolls in a manner similar to their alleged practices in Delhi and Maharashtra, where, she claimed, fake voters from other states were registered to influence the outcome of elections. Banerjee had earlier alleged that up to 30,000 fake voters were being registered in every assembly seat across the state, a claim that was sharply refuted by the BJP, which accused the TMC government of enrolling infiltrators from Bangladesh and Myanmar.

The West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer, however, dismissed these allegations, asserting that the electoral rolls were updated according to the legal protocols under the Representation of the People Act 1950. The CEO clarified that the process involved multiple layers of checks, including participation from Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by political parties, and any claims or objections should be raised before the relevant electoral officers.

Amidst the ongoing political rhetoric and accusations, Banerjee has also announced the formation of a high-level committee, including senior Trinamool leaders such as Subrata Bakshi, Derek O’Brien, Abhishek Banerjee, and Firhad Hakim, to oversee the voter list verification process. As the 2026 assembly elections approach, these developments signal an intensifying political battle over voter integrity in West Bengal.

Trinamool Social Media Coordinator and General Secretary Extends Ramadan Greetings and Best Wishes to Higher Secondary Candidates

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025,  Hooghly : Abhishek Gupta, the Social Media State Coordinator for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and General Secretary of the “India’s Hridoye Mamata” Social Media platform, has extended heartfelt greetings and congratulations to both the Muslim community celebrating the holy month of Ramadan and the candidates sitting for their Higher Secondary exams.


The holy month of Ramadan began on March 2, marking a time of fasting and reflection for the Muslim community. At the same time, the Higher Secondary exams, one of the most significant academic milestones in a student’s life, began on March 3. Acknowledging this convergence of important events, Gupta expressed his warm wishes for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth to the Muslim brothers and sisters observing Ramadan.

Simultaneously, he conveyed his support and best wishes to all students facing the Higher Secondary exams, urging them to stay focused and confident as they take this important step forward in their academic and personal lives.

Gupta’s message was shared in the presence of several key Trinamool leaders, including Hooghly observer and Arambagh district president Swapan Dutta, as well as Mayor Amit Roy, who were by his side during the occasion. The Trinamool leaders’ public expressions of solidarity reflect the party’s commitment to supporting both cultural observances and the educational aspirations of the state’s youth.

Vikas Bhattacharya Criticizes Election Commission’s Response on Voter Card Issues, Trinamool Cheers on Scrutiny Efforts

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : A sharp exchange over the credibility of voter identification cards has emerged as senior CPI(M) leader Vikas Ranjan Bhattacharya criticized the Election Commission’s response to concerns surrounding multiple voter cards with the same EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) number. Bhattacharya, in his latest remarks, questioned the Election Commission’s defense, stating that having the same EPIC number across different names does not indicate voter fraud, especially when polling stations and assembly constituencies differ. His comments were made in light of complaints about fake voter cards and multiple identities linked to one EPIC number, which led the Election Commission to issue a clarification.


In a heated discussion on the matter, Bhattacharya emphasized the importance of thorough scrutiny by all political parties, including those in power, of the voter lists. He pointed out that the Election Commission’s current justification was misleading, arguing that during elections, election officials only check the EPIC number at booths, with no attention given to the specific polling station or booth, which can lead to discrepancies in the process. Bhattacharya further called for the Election Commission to eliminate what he described as a “weak argument” and take more effective measures to ensure the integrity of the voting process.

Meanwhile, BJP leader Shamik Bhattacharya dismissed the claims made by the ruling party about fake voter cards, labeling them as attempts to distract from the real issue. He suggested that the Election Commission’s credibility would not be shaken by such protests, adding that Trinamool Congress was orchestrating “a new drama” following the Delhi elections out of fear. The mayor of Kolkata, a prominent figure in the ruling party, has been actively involved in investigating fake voter registrations, prompting further tension on the matter.

The exchange highlights ongoing concerns surrounding voter list integrity as Kolkata approaches a crucial election period, with both the ruling and opposition parties emphasizing the importance of transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

Trinamool Congress Leaders Warned of Strict Action for Breaching Party Discipline at Mega Rally

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 27, 2025, Kolkata :  Abhishek Bandyopadhyay, a key leader of the Trinamool Congress, has issued a stern warning to party members over breaches in discipline, criticizing certain MLAs, MPs, and party spokespersons for their lack of accountability. Speaking at the Netaji Indore Trinamool mega rally, Bandyopadhyay made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated, emphasizing that party rules must be respected at all costs. The rally saw Trinamool Congress leaders, activists, and public representatives gathered in large numbers, signaling the party’s continued push for unity and strength in the lead-up to future elections.


During his address, Mamata Bandyopadhyay, the party’s leader, reinforced this message, warning that any form of indiscipline would not be accepted within the party. She highlighted the workers as the backbone of the Trinamool Congress, stressing their importance in maintaining the party’s integrity and vision. She also noted how the Trinamool Congress had successfully defeated the BJP cycle in the past and reiterated her commitment to honesty and transparency.

Abhishek Bandyopadhyay also set the tone for future political battles, stating that the Trinamool Congress must be prepared for the upcoming electoral challenges in 2024. His remarks focused on the goal of securing a two-thirds majority in the next election, signaling the party’s readiness for an intense political contest. The call for unity and strict adherence to party guidelines reflects Trinamool Congress’s determination to maintain discipline and ensure electoral success.

Tensions Rise Within Trinamool Congress as Jorasanko MLA Vivek Gupta and Kunal Ghosh Exchange Barbs

Baby Chakraborty, 

 KalimNews, February 26, 2025, Kolkata : A war of words erupted within the Trinamool Congress as Jorasakho constituency MLA Vivek Gupta expressed his frustration with certain new leaders and workers within the party. He accused them of being self-styled leaders with personal agendas, saying, “There are some self-styled leaders. They had many problems. There are some outside groups in Chittaranjan. They are people from the Trinamool. They are new. They have entered this party for their own gain. They do not follow Mamata’s ideology. They have entered for their own gain.”

Vivek Gupta’s comments quickly sparked a response from fellow party leader Kunal Ghosh, who was not willing to remain silent. Ghosh released a video in which Gupta’s secretary was heard claiming control over Jorasakho’s politics. Using this video, Kunal Ghosh questioned Vivek Gupta’s leadership, asking, “What is Vivek doing if that girl is running Jorasakho?”

In his statement, Ghosh pointed out that Vivek should have addressed any party issues within the party structure, rather than airing grievances publicly. He said, “Vivek is a Trinamool MLA. If you have any problem, talk to the party leadership. If you feel something objectionable anywhere, talk to the party directly. You should not say it outside the party. And secondly, there is a communication gap somewhere.”

The situation became even more heated when a young woman, Payal Nag, was mentioned on social media as having control over the politics of Jorasakho. However, Payal Nag quickly clarified, stating, “I work under Vivek Guptaji. He is my MLA. And I follow the instructions he gives me.”

Despite the clarification, the back-and-forth continued, with both sides expressing their frustrations. This internal party squabble has become the talk of the town, with many Bengalis following the drama with great interest. It remains to be seen how this will affect the party’s cohesion in the lead-up to future elections.

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