Category Archives: States

Games & Sports, West Bengal

Bengal Chief Minister Honors Santosh Trophy-Winning Team, Announces Government Jobs and Financial Rewards

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 3, 2025, Kolkata : The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, celebrated the historic victory of Bengal’s football team in the Santosh Trophy, a triumph that ended a long wait for the state. Bengal secured the coveted title by defeating Kerala 1-0 in the final on Tuesday, with Ravi Hansda scoring the decisive goal in the final moments of the match. This victory marked Bengal’s first Santosh Trophy win since the 2016-17 season, ending a streak of disappointments, including two final losses and an early exit in the previous season.

The victorious footballers were warmly received by the Chief Minister on Thursday at the Nabanna meeting hall. Banerjee, who had expressed her joy on social media immediately after the win, took a moment to honor the team’s achievement. In a heartfelt Facebook post, she congratulated the players and coaching staff, highlighting the contribution of Ravi Hansda, who not only scored the match-winning goal but also emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with 13 goals, earning the Golden Boot. Banerjee wrote, “The victory was confirmed by the swift goal of Ravi Hansda, who scored the most goals in the tournament. Heartiest congratulations to Coach Sanjay Sen, Captain Chaku Mandi, and the entire team, management, and staff for this historic achievement. Bengal is shining as the hub of Indian football. Many more glorious moments await ahead!”

During the meeting, the Chief Minister handed out special gifts to each member of the championship-winning squad and announced a government job for every player. The announcement was met with applause, marking a gesture of appreciation for the players’ hard work and dedication. Additionally, Banerjee revealed that the West Bengal government would provide a special financial package to further reward their achievement.

This victory is seen as a resurgence of Bengal’s footballing prowess, bringing the state back to the forefront of Indian football after several years of struggles. The team, coached by Sanjay Sen, received widespread praise for their determination and skill throughout the tournament, and their triumph has undoubtedly rekindled the passion for football in the region.

Politics, West Bengal

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 29, 2024, Kolkata :  As political tensions between the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the interim government intensify, BJP leaders, including Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal’s Legislative Assembly, Shuvendu Adhikari, have been vocal in their criticism. The situation in Bangladesh remains precarious, with rising anti-India sentiment and political maneuvering threatening to destabilize the region.


Shuvendu Adhikari, a key BJP figure, recently made explosive comments on the current political crisis in Bangladesh, where the BNP, led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and the ruling Awami League are locked in a bitter power struggle. Adhikari emphasized that the legitimate Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, would rightfully take charge of Bangladesh, asserting, “Democracy, secularism, constitution, and the rights of all will guide the future of Bangladesh, as envisioned by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.”

However, the BJP leader also expressed deep concern over the current state of affairs, highlighting the growing role of militancy and fundamentalism in the country’s politics. He pointed to a faction of the opposition who, according to him, are trying to undermine Bangladesh’s sovereignty. “Those who supported Pakistan in 1971, for whom 3 million Bengalis were martyred, for whom thousands of Indian soldiers gave their lives, are now attempting to illegally run the country under the guise of a student movement. This is nothing but an attempt to bring militancy and fundamentalism into power,” Adhikari said.

Adhikari’s comments come at a time when Sheikh Hasina, currently visiting India, faces rising pressure to return to Bangladesh amidst escalating tensions. The interim government in Dhaka is calling for her return, but the political landscape is fraught with uncertainty. Complicating matters further, there have been reports of “letter bombs” being sent to various political figures, raising fears of a possible escalation in violence.

India has also expressed concerns over the protection of religious minorities in Bangladesh, particularly as tensions between different factions continue to mount. Additionally, the case of Chinmoy Krishna, a political prisoner in Bangladesh, remains unresolved, with his bail complications continuing to make headlines.

Adhikari’s remarks reflect the broader political discourse in India, where the BJP has consistently raised concerns about the political instability in neighboring Bangladesh and its potential impact on regional security. The volatile situation in Bangladesh continues to be a source of concern for India, especially with the ongoing tension between India and certain factions in Bangladesh.

As the political crisis unfolds in Bangladesh, the future of the country’s democracy and its relationship with India remains uncertain, with leaders from both sides closely monitoring developments.
Health, Politics, West Bengal

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Kolkata Police Overhauled After Court Rebuke Over Fake Passports; Stricter Verification Measures Announced

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 28, 2024, Kolkata : Kolkata Police have come under scrutiny following a court’s reprimand over the issue of fake passports, which has raised concerns about the quality of police verification processes. Multiple instances of negligence during passport verification have been uncovered, prompting the authorities to reassess and tighten their approach.


In response to the growing concerns, Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma revealed that significant changes would be implemented in the police’s role in passport verification. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Verma outlined a series of measures aimed at addressing the shortcomings identified during recent investigations.

As part of the new directives, the police verification process will be considerably more stringent. The city’s mayor has issued instructions to all police stations, emphasizing the critical importance of thorough passport verification. Under the revised system, the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of each police station must coordinate closely with the nodal officer before proceeding with any passport issuance. Special attention will be given to confirming accurate details, including the applicant’s criminal record, date of birth, and address, particularly in cases involving foreign nationals.

Furthermore, the verification process will now involve an additional layer of oversight. Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) and Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) will be directly responsible for ensuring that all aspects of the passport verification, including address validation, are thoroughly checked. These officers will also be required to record the details of their verification process in a dedicated logbook, ensuring a transparent and accountable record in case any issues arise in the future.

The verified information will also be integrated into a national portal, enhancing coordination and consistency across the country. This overhaul of the verification protocol is expected to ensure a more robust process, preventing the issuance of fake passports and strengthening the integrity of the system.

With these changes, Kolkata Police aim to restore public trust in the passport verification process and align with national security standards, ensuring that such lapses do not recur in the future.
Economy, Politics, Regional, West Bengal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Politics, West Bengal

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

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

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

17 Child Laborers Rescued in Kolkata’s Bow Bazar During Legal Aid Operation

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 27, 2024, Kolkata : The issue of child labor has been a growing concern in Kolkata, and recent reports have raised alarms about its increasing prevalence in the city. In response, Legal Aid officers conducted a series of investigations, focusing on areas in Kolkata’s Bow Bazar. During their raid, 17 child laborers, aged between 10 to 14 years, were rescued by the authorities. The children were found working in various small factories and hotels across the region.


Following the rescue operation, the children were safely returned to authorities, and the police have stepped in to ensure their well-being. This incident has sparked widespread concern, especially considering the efforts made by the government to increase child education in the state. With enhanced initiatives such as mid-day meals for schoolchildren, free textbooks, notebooks, and Sabuj Sathi bicycles, the state has been striving to improve the quality of education. Additionally, government schemes like student credit cards and tablets for higher education are available, which raises questions as to why child labor continues to persist.

It was later revealed that all the child laborers found in the raid were from the neighboring state of Bihar. This discovery led the Legal Aid officers to collaborate with local police to conduct the operation. In an official statement, Legal Aid Secretary and Judge Mou Ghatak Majumder emphasized the ongoing campaign against such immoral practices and assured the public that efforts would continue to fight child labor.

As this incident unfolds, it highlights both the progress made in child welfare and education and the pressing need for continuous vigilance and enforcement to protect children from exploitation.
Politics, West Bengal

Heightened Security Measures for Subhendu Adhikari Amid Threats from Bangladeshi Militants

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


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

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

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

Kolkata Police Officer’s Husband Missing, Search Underway

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 27, 2024, Kolkata :  The husband of Shanti Das Basak, a female officer of the Kolkata Police, has gone missing since Thursday, sparking concern within her family and the community. Shanti, who is in charge of Raj Bhavan security, filed a missing person report at the Penro police station in Howrah on Thursday morning after her husband, Dipanjan, did not return home the previous night.


According to Shanti, Dipanjan had left their home on Thursday, heading towards Howrah, but there has been no trace of him since. She described his behavior in the days leading up to his disappearance as troubling, noting that he had seemed withdrawn, unmotivated, and in a persistent bad mood. Shanti expressed deep concern, stating, “My husband cannot be found. For the last few days, he seemed reluctant to engage with anything and was dissatisfied with everything.” She also shared her intention to seek counseling for him once he returns, as his recent behavior had raised alarm.

In an effort to locate her husband, Shanti turned to social media, posting a photo of Dipanjan and appealing for any information that could help. “My husband Dipanjan cannot be found. The entire family is very worried. If anyone has any information about him, please let us know,” she wrote in her post.

Shanti Das Basak is well-regarded within the Kolkata Police for her dedication to duty and has previously served with the Human Rights Commission. Her colleagues and the local community are rallying around her as the search for Dipanjan continues.
Education, West Bengal

West Bengal Government Launches ‘Shiksha Sathi’ Project to Provide Affordable Notebooks for Students

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 26, 2024 – In a bid to ease the financial burden on students and their families, the West Bengal government has unveiled a new initiative called the ‘Shiksha Sathi’ project. Announced on Christmas, this project aims to provide affordable notebooks to students amid rising prices of study materials across the state.


The ‘Shiksha Sathi’ initiative will offer notebooks at prices considerably lower than the market rate. With the increasing cost of essential educational supplies such as books and notebooks, this move is expected to provide significant relief to both students and their parents. The notebooks will be produced by the state’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Department, in collaboration with Shilpabarta Printing Press Limited, which has previously handled various state government printing projects. However, the press will be modernized to meet the demand for new and high-quality notebooks.

Under the new project, three types of notebooks will be available. Two of them will be 100-page notebooks, priced at just ₹70 each, while a special 100-page notebook will be sold for only ₹37. Despite the lower price, the government has assured that the quality of these notebooks will be on par with premium market options. The notebooks will also feature information about various government social welfare schemes and their benefits, offering students a useful guide alongside their study material.

Currently, these government-subsidized notebooks will be available for purchase at Manjusha stalls, Consumer Cooperative Forums, and government fairs. In the near future, the notebooks will also be made available at ration shops across the state, making them accessible to a larger number of students.

The initiative has been met with widespread appreciation from both students and parents, who see this as a welcome move to reduce the financial strain on households, especially in light of the rising costs of education-related materials.

Education Minister Cha, while announcing the project, highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the education sector and ensuring that quality resources are accessible to students from all backgrounds.
Business, Economy, West Bengal

West Bengal Government to Build District-Level Shopping Malls, Announcing New Projects in Alipore

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 26, 2024 – In a significant end-of-year announcement, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee revealed plans to construct shopping malls in various districts across West Bengal. 


Addressing the media at a press conference held at Nabanna Sabhagriha on Thursday afternoon, Banerjee stated that the state government would allocate land to entrepreneurs for the establishment of these malls. The initiative aims to boost the local economy by fostering job creation and providing a platform for local artisans and self-help groups.

In a move to ensure inclusivity, the Chief Minister emphasized that each mall will feature two dedicated floors for members of local self-help groups and artisans, giving them a space to sell their goods. Banerjee expressed optimism that this project would strengthen the economic fabric at the grassroots level, providing a boost to district-level commerce.

Sharing an anecdote to highlight the importance of such development, Banerjee recalled a conversation with a young man from a district who had handed her a note expressing concern over the lack of shopping malls in the region. In response, the Chief Minister assured that the new malls would offer modern amenities similar to those in Kolkata, including cafeterias, restaurants, and cinema halls. She emphasized that the presence of modern cinema facilities in the districts would significantly increase the distribution and screening of Bengali films.

To kick-start the project, Banerjee announced the identification of land for the first mall, which will be built on the vacant plot opposite the Alipore Zoo in South 24 Parganas. Additionally, she disclosed plans for a direct sales center for leather goods, as well as a sales center dedicated to Bengali sarees, both of which will be constructed on land opposite the Alipore Museum.

This initiative marks a major step in the state government’s broader vision of decentralizing development and creating economic opportunities in the districts, with a focus on empowering local businesses and artisans. The Chief Minister’s announcement has been welcomed by various sectors, with many anticipating a significant positive impact on local economies and job creation in the coming years.
Politics, West Bengal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ramakrishna Mission Barasat Concludes Five-Day Celebration of Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Sivananda’s Birth Anniversaries

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 26, 2024, Kolkata :  The five-day celebration organized by the Ramakrishna Mission Barasat to commemorate the 172nd birth anniversary of Sri Sarada Devi and the 171st birth anniversary of Swami Sivananda concluded on Thursday.


Swami Praneswarananda Maharaj, representing the Ramakrishna Mission Math, Barasat, highlighted that this year’s event, like previous years, featured an array of spiritually enriching activities. The program included Mangalarati, Vedic recitations, hymns, special pujas, scriptural readings, bhajans, kirtans, processions, and evening religious gatherings led by eminent monks of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission.

The concluding day was marked by a discussion meeting themed “Swami Sivananda,” which saw participation from distinguished speakers including Swami Durgatmananda Maharaj, Principal of Bamunmura Ramakrishna Math, Swami Balabhadrananda Maharaj, Joint General Secretary of Belur Math, and Swami Shastragnananda Maharaj, Secretary of Narendrapur Ramakrishna Mission. The event culminated in a special Kali Puja conducted by the Barasat Ramakrishna Mission.

Throughout the five-day celebration, devotees and guests from various branches of the Ramakrishna Order—including Barasat, Belur Math, Kalyani, Nimpeeth, Narendrapur, and Golpark—participated in the programs, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. 
Economy, West Bengal

Lakshmi Bhandar Beneficiaries to Receive Old Age Allowance Post 60, Decision Awaits Final Approval

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 23, 2024 : Women beneficiaries under the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme will begin receiving old age allowance upon turning 60, as per the new proposal under consideration by the West Bengal government. The draft for this initiative has been prepared, but the final decision rests with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Following her approval, the proposal will proceed to the cabinet for formal ratification, after which official guidelines are expected to be issued by Nabanna, the state administrative headquarters. Implementation is anticipated in the upcoming year.


The Women, Child, and Social Welfare Department of the state government oversees the disbursement of old age allowance under the ‘Old Age Pension’ scheme. Currently, the scheme stipulates that only individuals with a monthly income of ₹1,000 or less are eligible for this benefit. However, the government is considering removing this upper income limit to ensure that all women, similar to Lakshmi Bhandar beneficiaries, can avail themselves of the scheme.

While the move has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who allege that it is a political strategy to garner votes, the initiative has been credited with assisting many marginalized women across the state. Opponents also argue that individuals who do not require financial assistance are benefiting from the scheme, raising concerns over the utilization of taxpayers’ money.

The government, however, maintains that the scheme operates automatically for Lakshmi Bhandar beneficiaries, who are eligible for old age allowance as soon as they reach 60 years of age. This move is expected to benefit several lakh women across West Bengal, extending the welfare net to a wider demographic.