Category Archives: Politics

Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Gains Strength as CPI(M) Councilor Joins Ahead of Assembly Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 24, 2025, North Dumdum : With the Assembly elections scheduled for March 26, the political landscape in West Bengal has witnessed significant shifts, as parties intensify their efforts to consolidate their influence. The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) is making notable strides in expanding its base ahead of the crucial polls.


In a recent development, Haldia MLA Tapsi Mandal defected from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to join the Trinamool Congress. Following this, another major political  has taken place, this time within the Left camp. Sandhya Rani Mandal, a prominent councilor from North Dumdum Municipality, has parted ways with the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] and joined the Trinamool Congress.

Sandhya Rani Mandal represented Ward No. 15 of North Dumdum Municipality and was a key opposition figure in the region. Notably, she was the only CPI(M) councilor, akin to the Shivaratri Salat case in North Dumdum. Her departure marks a significant setback for the Left, further diminishing its political hold in the area.

Her formal induction into the Trinamool Congress was officiated by State Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya, who handed over the party flag in a symbolic gesture. This shift comes in the wake of the 2022 municipal elections, where Trinamool Congress secured victory in 33 out of the 34 wards in North Dumdum Municipality. Ward No. 15 had remained the only bastion of CPI(M), with Sandhya Rani Mandal holding the position for three years as a dedicated representative of her party.

Her decision to align with the Trinamool Congress ahead of the elections underscores the growing influence of the ruling party and its strategic efforts to consolidate power before the upcoming polls. Political observers believe this move could further weaken the Left’s presence in the region, setting the stage for a more challenging electoral battle for the opposition parties. 
National, Politics, West Bengal

Amit Shah Cancels March Visit to Bengal Due to Eid Festivities

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 24, 2025, Kolkata :  Union Home Minister Amit Shah has canceled his scheduled visit to Bengal at the end of March, citing the upcoming Eid festival. The announcement was made by West Bengal BJP President Sukanta Majumdar on Saturday. Shah was originally set to visit the state on March 29 and hold a series of meetings with party leaders and workers throughout March 30. However, there were no plans for a public rally during this trip.


With the 2026 elections approaching, the BJP is intensifying its efforts to strengthen its position in Bengal. Shah’s visit was seen as a crucial step in strategizing for the upcoming electoral battle. However, in a statement, Majumdar clarified, “Amit Shah’s visit to Bengal in March has been canceled. Eid is on the 31st, and he has decided to postpone his visit in honor of the festival. We will inform everyone about his revised schedule soon. Many central leaders will visit Bengal in the coming days as part of our election preparations.”

Meanwhile, the BJP’s organizational elections in Bengal are also underway. Commenting on the party’s internal restructuring, Majumdar stated, “BJP is an organizational party. Most district presidents have already been announced. Presidential elections in 18 districts are still pending, but the remaining district presidents will be announced very soon.”

While Shah’s visit has been postponed, the BJP remains active in its efforts to strengthen its base in Bengal ahead of the crucial elections.
Politics, West Bengal

CPM’s Shift from Red to Blue Sparks Political Controversy

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 24, 2025, Kolkata : The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) has made a striking shift in its visual identity, transitioning from its traditional red to a sky-blue theme on social media. The party’s cover photo and display picture now feature a blue sky, a yellow hammer and sickle, and white clouds. This unexpected change has ignited intense political discussions, raising questions about the CPM’s motives behind the transformation.


Political circles are abuzz with speculation about whether the party is strategically adopting blue—a color often associated with the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC)—to reposition itself in Bengal’s political landscape. The cover photo also highlights the upcoming Brigade rally scheduled for April 20, adding further intrigue to the timing of the change.

TMC leader Debangshu Bhattacharya was quick to take a dig at the CPM, mocking the color shift in a social media post. Sharing an image of the updated CPM logo, he provocatively asked, “What is the perfect headline for this picture?” He further suggested, “Has CPM merged with blue and white?” Borrowing a line from Rupam Islam’s song, he quipped, “Today, blue has mixed with red?”

In a more pointed critique, Debangshu wrote sarcastically, “CPM, floating in space, has released its official display picture today?” He went on to remark that while various political groups have embraced blue over time, only six percent of the CPM’s base was left to do so—implying that the party has now completed the transition. Taking the metaphor further, he compared the party’s situation to astronaut Sunita Williams’ return to Earth after spending nine months in space, remarking that the CPM has been politically adrift for four years with no certainty of returning to solid ground even in the next five years.

The sudden visual shift has given rise to widespread debate over whether this is a tactical move to appeal to a broader voter base or a mere aesthetic change. While CPM leaders have yet to respond to the speculation, the controversy has already intensified discussions ahead of the crucial Brigade rally, making it a focal point for political observers in Bengal.
Politics, West Bengal

Dilip Ghosh Faces Backlash from Women Protesters in Kharagpur Over Remarks During Road Inauguration

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kharagpur, March 22, 2025 : Former Midnapore MP Dilip Ghosh found himself at the center of controversy on Friday afternoon when he was confronted by a group of women during the inauguration of a cast-iron road in Ward No. 6 of Kharagpur, also known as ‘Rail City.’ The women, expressing their frustration, questioned Ghosh’s absence during his tenure as MP and challenged his involvement in the project.


Upon Ghosh’s arrival to inaugurate the road, the women expressed their dissatisfaction, asking, “Where have you been all this time, grandfather? We didn’t see you even once when you were an MP. Now, you’ve come after our councilor, Pradeep Sarkar, has built the road?” In response, Ghosh claimed, “I gave money. Not anyone’s father’s money! Go and ask Pradeep Sarkar.” This reply only fueled further frustration among the protesters, and one woman reportedly retorted, “Why did you raise your father?”

The situation escalated quickly when Ghosh, apparently agitated, was heard using offensive language towards the women. He reportedly told the protesters, “Take 500 rupees and yell.” When the women continued their protest, Ghosh allegedly raised his voice, telling them, “I will strangle you.” One of the protesters then questioned why he had invoked such language, to which Ghosh is said to have replied, “I will raise a ‘fourteen-year-old man.’”

The exchange continued with accusations that Ghosh had made inappropriate and obscene comments toward the women, further enraging the protesters. The women of the area made it clear that such language would not be tolerated, condemning the remarks as disrespectful.

As tensions rose, the situation became a point of public concern, with locals demanding accountability for Ghosh’s conduct. The incident is likely to lead to further discussions about the treatment of women in politics and the need for respectful discourse from public figures.
Politics, West Bengal

Ram Navami Celebrations in Bengal: Calls for Mass Participation Spark Debate

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal has always been a state where people of all religions practice their faith freely. There is no restriction on celebrating Ram Navami either. However, historically, the festival has not been observed on a grand scale in the state. Over the past two to three years, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has actively promoted the large-scale celebration of Ram Navami, and this year is no exception. The leader of the opposition has once again called for grand celebrations, intertwining it with the discourse on Hindutva.


This call has sparked debate, particularly due to two contentious points. Firstly, the opposition leader has urged one crore Hindus to take to the streets on Ram Navami, which is being perceived as a demonstration of radical Hindutva. Secondly, he asserted that no administrative permission would be required for such gatherings. While religious celebrations are welcomed, maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the administration. If such a massive crowd takes to the streets, it could disrupt public movement and transportation. Therefore, administrative approval may be necessary to ensure that the festivities do not lead to any law-and-order issues.

The opposition leader has emphasized that the streets of Bengal will be filled with chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ on Ram Navami. There is no objection to a large turnout, be it one crore or even more, as he claims. However, the primary concern remains the peaceful and orderly conduct of the celebrations. If those participating ensure that their festivities do not cause inconvenience to others, neither the administration nor the general public should have any objections.

As Bengal prepares for Ram Navami, the focus remains on ensuring that religious observances are conducted in a harmonious manner, respecting both the celebratory spirit and public order.
Crime, Politics

Sujoy Krishna Bhadra Seeks Extension of Conditional Bail from Calcutta High Court

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, March 20, 2025: Sujoy Krishna Bhadra, who was arrested in connection with a recruitment case, has once again approached the Calcutta High Court seeking an extension of his conditional interim bail and a relaxation of the imposed conditions.


Bhadra was  initially granted interim bail due to health concerns, first in an Enforcement Directorate (ED) case in December and later in a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) case in February. The division bench of Justice Arijit Banerjee and Justice Apurba Singh Roy had noted concerns over Bhadra’s deteriorating heart cndition and decided to grant him bail on medical grounds. As a result, he has been staying at home under these conditions until the last week of March.

His case is scheduled to be heard in court later this month, where his legal team is expected to present arguments for extending the bail period. Reports suggest that the latest application also requests a reduction in the conditions imposed on him during the interim bail. The court’s decision on the matter will determine whether Bhadra continues to remain out on bail or has to comply with stricter legal proceedings.
Politics, West Bengal

Political Tensions Escalate in Baruipur Amid BJP and Trinamool Processions

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : Political tensions flared in Baruipur, South 24 Parganas, on Wednesday as rival processions by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) took place within 100 meters of each other. The situation quickly escalated into a heated exchange, with both parties raising slogans—’Jai Shri Ram’ from BJP supporters and ‘Jai Bangla’ from the TMC camp.


The controversy deepened as remarks made by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari came under fresh scrutiny. During the march, BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul, who accompanied Adhikari, stated, “We are being shown black flags because we stand for traditional Hindus. But we also support nationalist Muslims. If there is injustice, we will raise our voices against it. If someone thinks they can silence us with black flags, then they don’t understand the BJP.”

The police were quick to intervene, managing to de-escalate the tense atmosphere to some extent. The unrest stemmed from an earlier incident in the state assembly, where Speaker Biman Banerjee denied Adhikari the opportunity to speak. In protest, Adhikari led the BJP rally through Banerjee’s constituency in Baruipur, prompting TMC to organize a counter-rally in response.

With assembly elections approaching, the political climate in West Bengal appears to be increasingly charged, with religious undertones shaping the discourse. Adhikari, a prominent leader of the opposition, had previously declared, “I am an MLA of Hindus,” a remark that, while controversial, did not initially spark widespread debate. However, Paul’s clarification that the BJP represents not just Hindus but also nationalist Muslims has added a new dimension to the ongoing political discourse.

As political rivalries intensify, the incident underscores the deepening divide and the significance of religious identity in the state’s electoral battles.
Politics, West Bengal

Stalled Inauguration of Food Streets in Kolkata Sparks Concern

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : 

The Central Government’s ambitious plan to establish high-quality ‘food streets’ in 100 cities across India has hit a roadblock in Kolkata. Despite the construction of three such food hubs in the city, their inauguration remains indefinitely postponed due to ongoing disputes over stall distribution. The food streets were scheduled to open in 2024, offering a diverse culinary experience ranging from Chinese and Mughlai to Indian and Continental cuisines. However, unresolved tensions over stall allocation have delayed the launch, leaving these expensive establishments unused and deteriorating.

The food stalls, built at a cost of several crores of rupees, now stand neglected. According to municipal sources, the primary issue revolves around who will manage these stalls. One faction advocates for handing them over to large corporations to attract more visitors and enhance the appeal of the food streets. Another group insists that, as per the Centre’s guidelines, only registered hawkers should be allowed to operate these stalls. Further complicating matters, there is no consensus on the process of selecting hawkers and conducting fair allotment elections.

Due to this administrative impasse, the completed stalls at Russell Street, Patuli, and Tala remain unutilized. Meanwhile, similar food street concepts have flourished in major cities across Europe and America, where designated locations serve as bustling culinary hubs. The Narendra Modi-led government introduced this initiative to replicate that success in India, with Kolkata among the selected cities. However, without a resolution on stall management, the vision of vibrant, organized food streets in Kolkata remains unrealized.

Local stakeholders and food lovers await swift intervention and a decisive resolution to prevent further wastage of resources and to bring Kolkata’s food streets to life as originally envisioned.
Politics, West Bengal

Tension Escalates During Subhendu Adhikari’s Procession in Baruipur

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : A volatile situation erupted in Baruipur, South 24 Parganas, as Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and supporters staged a protest against opposition leader Subhendu Adhikari during his procession. Demonstrators waved black flags and raised ‘Go Back’ slogans, targeting BJP leaders and party workers. In response, BJP supporters countered with slogans of their own, escalating tensions in the area.


The clash intensified as BJP and TMC processions took place simultaneously within a 100-meter radius, leading to a charged atmosphere in the assembly constituency of Speaker Biman Banerjee. Concerns have been raised regarding how permissions were granted for two political processions at the same location and time, further fueling the controversy.

As Subhendu Adhikari arrived in Baruipur, TMC supporters vehemently protested his presence, surrounding his car and chanting slogans such as ‘thief, thief’ and ‘Shishirbabu’s son.’ The BJP leader responded by demanding the imposition of President’s rule in West Bengal, questioning the Election Commission’s ability to conduct free and fair elections under the current circumstances.

A significant police force was deployed to control the situation and prevent further escalation. Amid the tension, Subhendu Adhikari firmly stated, ‘Let the Election Commission decide whether elections are possible in West Bengal without President’s rule. I am demanding President’s rule.’ He further asserted, ‘I will do whatever I have to.’

The events in Baruipur underscore the growing political friction in West Bengal, raising concerns over the state’s election preparedness and law and order situation.
Politics, West Bengal

BJP Yuva Morcha Protests at Hooghly Shiksha Bhavan, Submits Memorandum with Educational Demands

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) staged a protest today in front of Hooghly’s Shiksha Bhavan, highlighting critical issues in the education sector. The demonstration, organized by the Hooghly organizational district of the BJYM, witnessed participation from members of the Mahila Morcha as well. The protest aimed to draw attention to pressing educational concerns and present a memorandum outlining a seven-point demand list to the authorities.


Among the key attendees were former district president Tushar Majumdar, general secretary Suresh Sau, and BJYM president Rajiv Gharami, along with several BJP leaders and party workers. The protest march, which commenced from the Hooghly organizational district office, culminated at Shiksha Bhavan, where the memorandum was formally submitted to the education department officials.

The seven demands put forth by the BJYM included the immediate resolution of inadequate toilet facilities in multiple schools, the timely introduction of service books within a stipulated two-year period, and the appointment of head teachers and necessary assistant teachers in every institution. Additionally, the memorandum called for stringent measures to curb corruption in the mid-day meal program, legal action against those misusing school management funds, the elimination of political interference in educational institutions, and the re-establishment of democratic elections for School Management Committees (SMC).

Following the memorandum submission, tensions escalated when BJP workers initiated a sit-in protest outside the Education Building. A brief scuffle ensued between the protestors and the police as authorities intervened to manage the situation. Despite the confrontation, the protest remained largely peaceful, with demonstrators reiterating their commitment to ensuring educational reforms in the district.

The BJP Yuva Morcha leaders have urged the administration to take swift action on their demands, emphasizing that the welfare of students and teachers must be prioritized. The event marks yet another instance of the BJYM’s continued advocacy for transparency and efficiency in the education system.
Politics, West Bengal

Massive Ram Navami Procession Expected in Kolkata Amid Security Concerns

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 19, 2025, Kolkata :  BJP’s opposition leader, Suvendu Adhikari, has announced plans for a large-scale Ram Navami procession in Kolkata, claiming that nearly one crore Hindus will participate in the event. This announcement has stirred discussions regarding security and communal harmony in the city.


Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma acknowledged the potential risks associated with such a large gathering but assured that the police administration is fully prepared to manage the situation effectively. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents and to ensure the safety of all citizens.

Adhikari emphasized that this year’s procession would be significantly larger than previous ones and stated that no political party or administrative body would be able to halt the event. His statements have sparked debates across political and social circles regarding the possible implications of such a massive procession.

He also strongly criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s remarks about certain organizations like the RSS, Bajrang Dal, and Vishwa Hindu Parishad, interpreting them as an insult to the Hindu community. Additionally, Adhikari expressed concerns over possible disruptions, citing past instances of violence during religious events. He referenced incidents in areas such as Rajabazar, Bajbaj, and Birbhum, suggesting that there could be attempts to create disturbances similar to those reported in neighboring Bangladesh.

Authorities have urged all communities to maintain peace and cooperation during the upcoming festival. Security measures, including increased surveillance and crowd management strategies, are being put in place to ensure that the event proceeds without conflict. The administration has also appealed to all stakeholders to respect law and order while celebrating religious traditions.

As the date approaches, the city remains on high alert, with efforts being made to balance religious sentiments with public safety and communal harmony.
Politics, West Bengal

Political Rhetoric Heats Up in West Bengal Ahead of 2026 Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 19, 2025, Kolkata :  Political tensions continue to escalate in West Bengal as Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari reiterates his stance on community politics while launching sharp criticisms against the ruling Trinamool Congress. Adhikari, who recently made controversial remarks about minority communities, now asserts that the BJP is not against any community but opposes the policies of the Trinamool Congress. He stated, “We have never spoken against any other community. We are not against the community against which you are angry. We are against this policy of the Trinamool Congress.”

His remarks come amid growing political polarization in the state, where vote-bank strategies remain a focal point. With approximately 33 percent of the electorate comprising minority voters and around 67 percent majority voters, parties are seen making calculated moves to consolidate their respective bases. The upcoming 2026 Assembly elections have heightened the competition, leading to intensifying rhetoric from both sides.

Adhikari did not hold back in his criticism of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, sarcastically remarking, “You left the opposition leader out for nine months. And there are two sessions. Do whatever you can. Kejriwal will go wherever Mamata goes.” The reference to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal adds another dimension to the ongoing political battle, as alliances and rivalries shape the pre-election landscape.

With both sides engaging in aggressive campaigning, the state is witnessing a surge in political messaging, with posters promoting Hindu unity becoming widespread, while the Trinamool Congress counters with its own outreach strategies. The charged atmosphere reflects the deepening divide as the election approaches.

Beyond verbal exchanges, concerns have been raised over potential unrest, with Adhikari alleging that political conflicts in Bengal are not just limited to ideological battles but also involve the threat of violence. Security measures are being assessed to prevent any escalation of tensions. Meanwhile, the administration continues to emphasize governance issues such as employment, industrial growth, and development as key priorities for the state.

As the political landscape shifts, the focus remains on how parties navigate these complexities in the lead-up to the crucial 2026 Assembly elections. Authorities urge political leaders and citizens alike to uphold peace and democratic values while engaging in political discourse.

Politics, West Bengal

Allegations of Water Supply Disruption Over Voting in Kolkata

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 17, 2025, Kolkata: Allegations have surfaced against Trinamool Congress (TMC) councilor Lipika Manna of Ward No. 107 in Kolkata, accusing her of disconnecting water taps in certain localities as a punitive measure for not voting. Several residents claim that they were warned of water supply cuts if they failed to vote in favor of the ruling party.


A total of 40 families have lodged a complaint with Borough Chairman Sushant Ghosh, stating that the councilor had explicitly mentioned that water facilities would be restricted for non-voters. A local resident expressed frustration, stating that water taps could no longer be installed in the area due to objections, allegedly because of the presence of a nearby school. The resident further emphasized the hardships faced in fetching water from distant locations. He also mentioned that while locals are frequently called to attend meetings and political processions, they often choose not to participate. However, they claim that the councilor insists on their daily presence at the party office, despite their non-affiliation with any political group.

An elderly woman, who had approached the councilor with a petition, recounted the experience, stating that she was treated with extreme rudeness. She added that when she expressed her inability to join political processions due to her age, her concerns were disregarded.

Reports indicate that four water taps in the affected area have allegedly been relocated to the banks of a nearby canal, exacerbating the residents’ struggles. Addressing the grievances, Borough Chairman Sushant Ghosh acknowledged that he had received a petition a month ago regarding the ongoing water crisis, which, according to locals, has persisted for the past 12 to 13 years. Residents claim that four water connections were severed near Narkelbagan, prompting them to seek intervention.

In response, Ghosh stated that upon receiving the complaint, he immediately sought clarification from the borough executive. Officials informed him that the lines had not been permanently cut but were temporarily disconnected to investigate water distribution issues. He assured the residents that necessary steps would be taken to restore the supply. Emphasizing the importance of equal access to public utilities, Ghosh asserted that voting preferences should never be a determinant for the provision of essential services.
Politics, West Bengal

Speculation Grows Over Dilip Ghosh’s Potential Return as BJP State President Ahead of Amit Shah’s Kolkata Visit

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 16, 2025, Kolkata :  Former BJP state president Dilip Ghosh is set to visit the West Bengal Assembly on Tuesday at 2 PM to meet with BJP MLAs, sparking widespread speculation regarding his future role within the party. Ghosh’s visit comes during a crucial pre-election phase, fueling rumors that he might be in line to reclaim the position of BJP state president.

The political buzz surrounding Ghosh has intensified as other key figures within the state BJP, including current State President Sukanta Majumdar and prominent leader Shuvendu Adhikari, are expected to meet with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday night. It is anticipated that discussions surrounding leadership roles, including the state BJP president position, will be on the agenda.

Amit Shah, who is scheduled to visit Kolkata on March 29 for a one-day trip, is expected to hold a series of organizational meetings in preparation for next year’s assembly elections. Majumdar confirmed that Shah’s visit will focus on strengthening the BJP’s organizational framework, with the likelihood of a state president being announced before the visit gaining traction.

Majumdar also revealed that the central leadership has been informed that 25 district presidents have been elected, marking a significant step towards the selection of the state president. However, Majumdar clarified that no formal instructions have been received yet, and the nomination process will commence once the green light is given by the central leadership.

As the political drama unfolds, Dilip Ghosh’s meetings with BJP MLAs prior to the state president announcement are adding fuel to the speculation, with many watching closely to see how these developments will shape the party’s strategy ahead of the crucial state elections.

International, Politics

Nepalese people know mastermind behind royal massacre of 2001 says Prachanda

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PTI, Kathmandu, Mar 15, 2025 :  Nepal’s former prime minister and CPN-Maoist Centre chairman Pushpakamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on Friday said that the Nepalese people know who is the mastermind behind the royal palace massacre of 2001, in which the entire family of then king Birendra Shah were killed.

     
Prachanda, speaking at a programme organised by his party in Sindhupalchowk district, said, “The palace massacre was carried out by those within the royal family itself.”
     
“Who had killed his own brother?” Prachanda said, instigating serious accusation on former monarch Gyanendra.
     
“One who was behind the royal massacre is now talking big things,” he said. “People know very well the mastermind behind the royal massacre,” he said.
     
On the night of June 1, 2001, the entire family of Birendra, including queen Aishwarya and crown prince Dipendra, were killed in a mysterious manner.
     
However, the official probe committee formed after the incident said in its report that then crown prince Dipendra killed his entire family, including the king, queen, his brother and sister, before killing himself. The report was dismissed by many at that time.
     
Nepal’s former King Gyanendra Shah, 77, on Sunday arrived here amidst tight security, as pro-monarchy activists gathered at the airport to welcome him.
     
As soon as Gyanendra landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport from Pokhara on board the Simrik Air helicopter, hundreds of loyalists, including leaders and cadres of pro-monarchists Rastriya Prajatantra Party, started chanting slogans in his favour.
     
The crowd carried placards with slogans such as “We want our King back,” “Abolish federal republican system and reinstate the monarchy,” and “The King and the country are dearer than our life.”
     
Prachanda also accused the former monarch of being involved in gold smuggling and idol theft.
     
“One who had stolen big idols in the past is now trying to become the king,” said Prachanda. “Don’t think that Nepalese people have forgotten who was involved in gold smuggling in the past,” he claimed.
     
Prachanda recalled that when he became the prime minister for the first time, he announced to re-investigate the palace massacre but it could not happen as he had to quit the post within short period.
     
“If I had completed the five-year tenure as the prime minister, it would be possible to punish the traitor and one who killed his own brother,” he said.
     
Prachanda warned the former monarch not to show misadventure.
     
“A federal democratic republic system established with the sacrifice of thousands of people cannot be snatched by taking some 10,000 to 15,000 people on the street,” he said.
     
Prachanda also called people to participate in the grand rally being organised by his party in Kathmandu on March 28 to counter the move of the pro-monarchists.
National, Politics

CEC calls for discussion on linking of EPIC and Aadhaar on March 18

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 Election Commission of India (ECI) has invited suggestions from all national and state political parties by April 30, to address any unresolved electoral issues


ANI, News Delhi, March 16, 2025 : Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar called for a discussion with the Home Secretary, Secretary Legislative Department and CEO UIDAI with the Commission, on the linking of EPIC and Aadhaar on March 18, sources said on Saturday.

According to the sources, the meeting is scheduled in the Election Commission on Tuesday, March 18.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has invited suggestions from all national and state political parties by April 30, to address any unresolved electoral issues at the level of Electoral Registration Officers (ERO), District Election Officers (DEO), or Chief Electoral Officers (CEO).

Earlier on March 10, the Election Commission Monday said the matter related to duplicate voter identity card numbers is a “legacy issue,” with such cards being issued even between 2008 and 2013, when the BJP-led NDA was not in power.
 
In the past, the poll body also directed states to remove all discrepancies in the elector’s photo identity card during annual electoral roll updates.

The poll body had recently clarified that irrespective of the EPIC number, an elector can cast a vote only at their designated polling station.

To allay any apprehensions, all cases of duplicate EPIC numbers will be resolved within three months’ time by ensuring a unique EPIC number for the existing electors having duplicate EPIC numbers and for future electors as well, the EC had said.

The issue of duplicate numbers found an echo in Parliament on March 10, with Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi demanding a discussion in the House on voter lists, on which several political parties have raised certain questions.

He said, “The question is being raised on the voter list in every state. In Maharashtra, questions were raised about the black and white voter lists. The entire opposition is just saying that there should be a discussion on the voter’s list.”

On March 6, a delegation of the Trinamool Congress met Election Commission officials in Kolkata regarding their complaints about the same Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number.
Politics, West Bengal

Mamata reaffirms commitment to serve farmers on ‘Krishak Divas’

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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