Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, May 15, 2025, Kolkata :  In the run-up to crucial elections in Bihar later this year and West Bengal in 2026, BJP leader and former MP Arjun Singh has stirred the political pot with a strong appeal aimed at mobilizing Bengali voters living outside the state. Speaking alongside Union Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey, Singh claimed that voters from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar—especially Bengalis who have migrated for work—could significantly influence the outcome of the West Bengal Assembly elections.

Addressing party workers and supporters, Singh urged that steps be taken to ensure that Bengalis residing in Bihar and other states return to Bengal to cast their votes during the upcoming state elections. In return, he suggested that those who are voters in Bihar but currently living in Bengal should go back to vote in their home constituencies during the Bihar elections. “All these Bengalis should be sent to Bengal to vote. And those who are voters in Bihar, they will go from Bengal and vote in Bihar. If this can be done, then BJP is sure to win in both states,” Singh asserted.

The former MP described these migrant voters as “game changers” and emphasized the need for their mobilization to secure a favorable outcome for the Bharatiya Janata Party in both states. He appealed directly to Union Minister Satish Chandra Dubey to coordinate efforts in this regard. Singh’s remarks align with previous statements made by BJP leader Shuvendu Adhikari, who has consistently advocated for strong outreach efforts and emphasized religious identity in political strategy.

Stressing the need for action beyond rhetoric, Singh urged party workers to take to the ground rather than rely solely on speeches and public addresses. Drawing a parallel with national defense, he stated, “The BJP’s defense system should be strengthened. Just as the Prime Minister strengthened the defense system and taught Pakistan a lesson in three hours by sitting in India, similarly the BJP’s defense system should be strengthened.”

His comments reflect a broader strategy by the BJP to consolidate support across state borders and tap into the influence of migrant voters, positioning them as a critical element in the upcoming electoral battles in both Bihar and West Bengal.

Baby Chakraborty | KaimNews  |  May 4, 2025  |  Kolkata :  BJP leader Dilip Ghosh’s recent visit to the Jagannath Temple in Digha with his wife has unexpectedly stirred political turmoil within the West Bengal BJP, exposing deep internal divisions. What began as a personal occasion has escalated into a full-blown intra-party conflict, playing out in aggressive exchanges on social media between supporters of Ghosh and his detractors.

Speculation has intensified over Ghosh’s political future, with rumors circulating about a potential shift to the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Adding fuel to the fire, BJP veteran Tathagata Roy remarked that Ghosh’s switch to Trinamool “is just a matter of time,” suggesting an imminent defection.

The controversy deepened on Sunday morning when Trinamool Youth President of Rajarhat-Newtown and North 24 Parganas Zilla Parishad member, Mohammad Aftab Uddin, paid a courtesy visit to Ghosh at Eco Park in Newtown. The visit, officially to congratulate Ghosh on his recent marriage, has sparked fresh political chatter.

Speaking to reporters, Aftab Uddin said, “I came to greet Dilip-da on starting his second innings in life. We meet often here in Eco Park. There’s nothing political in this.” However, the symbolic gesture was not lost on political observers amid the current volatile atmosphere.

Dilip Ghosh responded to the visit with characteristic candor. “He used to shout ‘go back’ slogans. Now he comes with flowers. If everyone starts accepting me as a leader, I don’t know what qualities they’ve seen in me—but I thank them,” Ghosh said with a wry smile, further fueling speculation.

The BJP’s state unit appears increasingly fragmented, with one faction rallying behind Ghosh and another actively resisting him. The public nature of the infighting, especially on social media, is raising serious concerns about the party’s internal cohesion and future electoral prospects in West Bengal.

As political observers watch closely, the next steps of Dilip Ghosh — and the reactions they provoke — could significantly impact the state’s political dynamics.

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, May 1, 2025, Kolkata : The sudden illness of senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Saugata Roy has sent shockwaves through political circles in West Bengal. The incident occurred on Wednesday, during the inauguration of the Ariadah Vishnupriya Temple in Ward No. 9 of Kamarhati, coinciding with the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya.

According to eyewitnesses, Roy fell ill shortly after arriving at the venue. The MP, who was attending the event, suddenly lost consciousness upon stepping out of his car. Security personnel quickly assisted him, and he was immediately escorted to a nearby nursing home. The situation escalated when it was found that his heart was not functioning properly, prompting doctors to act swiftly. Roy was soon transferred to a private hospital in Belgharia, where a pacemaker was successfully implanted during the night.

Hospital sources have confirmed that the surgery was a success, and Saugata Roy is currently stable. He remains under observation and is being monitored frequently by medical professionals.

Political Leaders Rush to Hospital

Upon hearing the news of Roy’s hospitalization, several prominent political figures rushed to the hospital to check on his condition. State Education Minister Bratya Basu, Assembly Chief Vigilance Officer Nirmal Ghosh, MLA Sayantika Banerjee, and other senior Trinamool leaders were among those who visited Roy. Concerned family members and followers have also gathered at the hospital to support the veteran MP during this difficult time.

Roy, who has held various important positions in his long political career, is considered a senior and influential leader within the TMC. His sudden illness has caused significant anxiety within party circles, as his health has always been a matter of great concern for his supporters. The news of his condition has prompted an outpouring of well-wishes from his colleagues and political allies, all of whom are hoping for his swift recovery.

Party Wishes and Public Concerns

The Trinamool Congress has expressed its deep concern and wished the MP a speedy recovery. Party officials have assured the public that they are closely monitoring the situation and that Roy’s family is receiving full support during this time. His health scare has underscored the vulnerability of even the most seasoned politicians and has drawn attention to the physical toll that years of political service can take.

Saugata Roy has long been a prominent figure in West Bengal politics, and his leadership has been central to the success of the Trinamool Congress. The party’s concern for his health is indicative of his importance within the political landscape of the state.

As of now, the focus remains on Roy’s recovery. Medical officials have said that he is stable and under careful observation. While his illness has temporarily shaken political circles, it is hoped that he will make a full recovery and return to his duties in the near future.

The Trinamool Congress, along with Saugata Roy’s supporters, eagerly awaits good news regarding his health.

Baby Chakraborty, Kolkata, May 1, 2025 : Amid mounting attacks from within his own party, Dilip Ghosh, the former BJP state president, has responded with sharp words and a candid assessment of the current state of the party in West Bengal. The criticism began after Ghosh’s visit to the Jagannath Temple in Digha on Wednesday, which triggered a series of attacks from rival factions within the party.

In a press interaction, Dilip Ghosh defended his actions, invoking the example of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and his legacy of diplomacy. “Atal Bihari Vajpayee bowed to the feet of Mamata Banerjee’s mother at Kalighat. That Vajpayee went to the declared enemy Pakistan with a message of peace. Modiji also went to Nawaz Sharif’s house. He carried out surgical strikes and airstrikes too. We believe in that culture,” Ghosh said, emphasizing that his actions were in line with the broader political ethos of the country, which allows space for diplomacy and engagement even with ideological opponents.

The former MP also addressed the accusations surrounding his alleged meetings with Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal’s Chief Minister. Ghosh clarified, “I did not have a separate meeting with Mamata Banerjee. Many people call secretly, but I am not involved in any such discussions,” he added, rejecting claims that he was secretly engaging with political rivals.

Dilip Ghosh did not shy away from acknowledging the internal struggles of the BJP in West Bengal, admitting that the party’s graph has been on the decline since 2021. “The party’s graph has been going down since 2021. We have forgotten how to win. My fight continues,” Ghosh said with a tone that reflected both regret and determination. His remarks underscored the internal rift within the state BJP, especially after their disappointing performance in the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, which saw the party lose significant ground to Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Ghosh also responded to criticism over his visit to the Jagannath Temple, stating, “Why did I come to the temple? Many people are suffering! I have been going to the temple since childhood. I came to the temple, it doesn’t matter who built it. God should be kept above the argument.” His visit to the temple had been met with scrutiny from within the party, with some questioning the political significance of the visit.

Responding to criticisms from party insiders, Ghosh made it clear that the current leadership in the Bengal BJP was failing to deliver results. “Today, there are people in our party whom I fought against and made the party stand. Ever since the brokers came to the party, the party has been losing one election after another,” Ghosh said, taking a pointed jab at party members he believed were responsible for the current state of affairs. He further added, “Those who are pointing fingers at me should answer why the number of BJP MLAs, MPs, and panchayat representatives in Bengal is decreasing.”

His criticism reflects the internal turmoil within the BJP in Bengal, where factionalism has plagued the party’s efforts to challenge the dominance of the TMC in the state. The declining number of BJP representatives in the state’s assembly and local bodies has been a subject of concern for many party workers, who feel that the party is losing its grip on the state.

With a hint of sarcasm, Ghosh remarked, “I did not come to the temple to please anyone. I’ve been visiting temples since childhood. It’s not about who built it; it’s about our connection to the divine.” His comments on the temple visit and the internal party dynamics show that Ghosh is not afraid to voice his frustrations, even as he continues to position himself as a steadfast fighter for the party’s future in Bengal.

As the party faces growing challenges both internally and externally, Dilip Ghosh’s unfiltered comments highlight the growing discontent within the ranks of the Bengal BJP. It remains to be seen how this candid criticism will influence the party’s leadership and its strategy moving forward, as the BJP continues to struggle to find a strong foothold in the state.

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  Kolkata, May 1, 2025 :  In the aftermath of the devastating fire that claimed 14 lives at a Barabazar hotel on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the site on Thursday to assess the situation and issue a strong message of concern regarding public safety.

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, April 22, 2025, Kolkata: Senior BJP leader and former state president Dilip Ghosh stirred controversy on Monday morning while speaking to media personnel during a routine walk at Eco Park in Kolkata. The former Member of Parliament from Midnapore launched a sharp verbal attack on the CPI(M), suggesting that the party has lost relevance in Bengal’s political landscape and is allegedly being kept afloat by the Trinamool Congress.

In a candid interaction, Ghosh claimed, “Trinamool has kept the CPM alive with saline.” He went on to allege that the ruling Trinamool Congress not only supports the operational expenses of the CPI(M)’s party offices but even finances their daily amenities. “They even pay for their tea,” he remarked, casting doubts on the political independence of the Left party.

Referring to the Left’s nationwide strike scheduled for May 20, Ghosh expressed skepticism about its impact. “What difference does it make to the people of India whether the CPM calls a strike or not? Where are they now?” he questioned, implying the party’s dwindling relevance on the national stage.

Ghosh also commented on the brigade rally organized by the Left in Kolkata, likening it to a cultural gathering rather than a political movement. “Just as Bengalis come together after Durga Puja, the Left too gathers at the Brigade every year to eat and drink,” he remarked, mocking the rally’s seriousness.

Ghosh’s remarks come at a time when political activity is intensifying in Bengal, with alliances and rivalries shaping up ahead of key national events. His statements have already sparked reactions across party lines, with the possibility of further escalation in political rhetoric as the strike date approaches.

The comments are likely to fuel further debate in Bengal’s already charged political atmosphere, especially given the sensitivity surrounding inter-party dynamics and the historical significance of both the CPI(M) and the Trinamool Congress in the state.

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, April 18, 2025 : 

Former BJP state president, ex-MP, and former MLA Dilip Ghosh tied the knot with party colleague Rinku Majumdar in an intimate wedding ceremony at his residence in New Town on Friday evening. The event, held as per Vedic rituals, was attended only by close family members and a few well-wishers, in keeping with Ghosh’s preference for simplicity.

Clad in traditional Bengali attire and donning a ceremonial ‘topor,’ the 60-year-old political leader appeared before the media after the rituals, expressing gratitude to all who had extended their blessings. “I thank everyone for their blessings. My personal life will not impact my political responsibilities,” Ghosh stated, adding that the marriage was a step taken in fulfilment of his mother’s long-standing wish.

This marks Ghosh’s first marriage and the second for 51-year-old Rinku Majumdar, who has a 25-year-old son from her previous marriage. A homemaker and long-time BJP functionary, Rinku has been associated with the party since 2013 and met Ghosh during morning walks at Eco Park in 2021. Although they initially shared only brief interactions, their relationship gradually deepened. It was during an IPL match at Eden Gardens on April 3, watched together with Rinku’s family from Box No. 11, that the couple reportedly decided to formalize their bond.

“I proposed, and I’m proud he eventually accepted,” said Majumdar. According to her, she was drawn to Ghosh’s values and clarity, especially as someone who respected her political ambitions and shared a common space in New Town. She revealed that she had proposed marriage in September 2024, and after some deliberation, Ghosh agreed in December.

Ghosh, a lifelong bachelor until now and a long-serving member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has played a significant role in West Bengal politics. Known for his straightforward approach, those close to him see this decision as a continuation of his bold, independent choices.

The wedding drew attention from across the political spectrum. Senior BJP leaders, including state unit president Sukanta Majumdar, visited the couple to convey their wishes. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee sent flowers and a congratulatory note, while Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari declined to comment.

Sources indicate that not everyone within the Sangh Parivar welcomed the development, though Ghosh appears unfazed. He is scheduled to visit his hometown, Kharagpur, on Saturday and is also expected to attend a political event in Dumdum, signaling his continued engagement with party work.

When asked about honeymoon plans, Ghosh responded with his trademark humour, “It will happen somewhere in India.”

As messages continue to pour in, the couple’s quiet yet significant step has made waves in the political landscape, blending personal fulfilment with public curiosity—while reinforcing Ghosh’s commitment to both family and political life.

A key moment in their evolving relationship occurred on April 3 at Eden Gardens during a Kolkata Knight Riders IPL match. Ghosh, Rinku, her son, and extended family were seen together in Box No. 11 of the clubhouse—a sight that many now recognize as the quiet confirmation of their impending marriage.

While some within political and social circles were taken by surprise, many close to Ghosh viewed his decision as yet another example of his independent thinking and personal conviction. “His fiancée, Rinku di, proposed to him after he lost the Lok Sabha election last year… It was there, at Eden Gardens, that the final decision was made,” shared a close associate of Ghosh.

In an interview following the wedding announcement, Ghosh emphasized that the marriage was deeply personal and driven by a desire to fulfill his mother’s long-standing wish. “My mother wanted me to get married, so to honour her wish, I am tying the knot. I will continue to be in active politics as I was before. My personal life will have no impact on my political work,” he stated.

Rinku, speaking candidly about their journey, shared that although she proposed in September, Ghosh took time to deliberate and finally agreed in December. Despite well-wishes from across party lines—including Chinchura MLA Asit Majumdar, who described Ghosh as a respected leader and wished him happiness—a section within the Sangh Parivar has reportedly expressed reservations about the marriage.

Ghosh, a longtime member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has served the organisation in various roles throughout his political career. His decision to marry, after decades of public service and bachelorhood, marks a significant personal milestone and has stirred conversation across political and social circles.

Nonetheless, both Ghosh and Majumdar have made it clear that their commitment to public service will remain unchanged as they step into this new phase of life together.

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, April 10, 2025

: Amid intensifying protests across West Bengal against the recently enacted Waqf Act, State Municipal and Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim has publicly declared that the law will not be implemented in the state. The statement, made during a press interaction following a review meeting at MKD in Midnapore on Wednesday, has sparked a fresh round of constitutional debate and political contention.

The new Waqf Act, already passed in Parliament and signed into law by the President, has triggered opposition in various parts of Bengal, particularly in regions such as Jangipur and Suti in Murshidabad, where unrest and phased protests have been reported. Demonstrators argue that the Act infringes upon the constitutional rights of minority communities regarding their properties.

Addressing reporters after the development review meeting, Firhad Hakim reaffirmed the state government’s stance against the legislation. “A resolution was passed in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly opposing the Waqf Bill. Despite that, the Bill was passed, which we consider wrong and unconstitutional,” he stated. “The Constitution clearly states that the property of minorities must remain in their hands. The new law violates this principle.”

Hakim alleged that the law is politically motivated, claiming, “This is a BJP move aimed at securing both Hindu and Muslim votes. We will strongly oppose this.” He also reiterated that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is committed to maintaining religious harmony and will not implement any policy that could upset minority communities. “There is no question of this law being enforced in Bengal,” he emphasized.

However, the Minister’s assertion has raised questions about constitutional propriety, as states are not authorized to repeal or ignore a Central law once it has been enacted and signed into law by the President. Legal experts caution that the refusal to implement the Act could lead to a constitutional standoff between the state and the Centre.

Meanwhile, the review meeting in Midnapore also covered several local infrastructure and development projects concerning Midnapore and Kharagpur. Discussions focused on expediting delayed initiatives through coordinated efforts of the Midnapore-Kharagpur Development Board.

As the state government holds firm in its opposition to the Waqf Act, the political and legal dimensions of the issue are expected to evolve, potentially reaching higher judicial forums if the implementation stalemate continues. The unfolding situation highlights the deepening rift between state and central authorities over minority welfare policies and the limits of state resistance within the federal structure.