Category Archives: States

Subhendu Adhikari Accuses Mamata Banerjee of Mafia Ties and Corruption in Controversial Remarks at Bagdogra

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 31, 2025, Bagdogra :  State opposition leader Subhendu Adhikari, who arrived at Bagdogra airport from Kolkata this morning to attend a party program, made a series of explosive accusations against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Speaking to the media, Adhikari claimed that the family of a deceased victim in the RG tax incident had been demanding the execution of Sanjay Roy, the main accused, and others involved in the case.

“I have been with the family of the deceased since the first day,” said Adhikari, adding that the victim’s father had expressed his support for the opposition leader, saying, “Mamata Banerjee, stop. The opposition leader is from our family. I cannot get a bigger reward than this.” He further alleged that the Chief Minister had poisoned lakhs of people through contaminated saline injections.

Adhikari also discussed a recent development involving the infamous RL saline factory, which was originally located in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. He claimed that the plant had been shut down after an FIR was filed against its director, Mukul Ghosh. According to Adhikari, the factory was then moved to Chopra in West Bengal, where it was set up under Mamata Banerjee’s instructions, with the Chopra MLA, Hamidul, allegedly playing a role in its establishment. He alleged that the plant was extorting two lakh rupees every month from local Trinamool Congress (TMC) officials.

“What I am saying may seem like a story, but it is a reality,” Adhikari asserted. His allegations drew significant attention, casting a shadow on the state government’s practices.

Adhikari also addressed the tragic deaths of two West Bengal residents during the recent Mahakumbh in Uttar Pradesh, expressing his condolences and calling for support from both the Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal governments. He noted that similar tragedies had occurred during the tenure of Mamata Banerjee, citing the deaths of five people during the Gangasagar pilgrimage four years ago.

The opposition leader’s remarks took a more personal turn when he accused Mamata Banerjee of being a “mafia” herself, a claim that is likely to spark further political controversy. After making his statement, Adhikari continued his journey by road to Siliguri.

As the political climate in West Bengal remains tense, Adhikari’s comments serve as another high-profile attack on the Chief Minister, drawing sharp lines between the ruling TMC and opposition parties.

Tensions Escalate in RG Kar Victim’s Case as Madan Mitra and Family Clash Over Compensation and Justice

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 29, 2025, Kolkata : The RG Kar victim’s case has become increasingly contentious, with Kamarhati Trinamool Congress MLA Madan Mitra and the victim’s family exchanging sharp words regarding the pursuit of justice and compensation. The victim’s family, no longer staying silent, responded strongly to questions about compensation and the ongoing investigation into the tragic incident.


The father of the victim, alongside activist Sanjay Roy, made it clear that they would not accept financial compensation in place of justice. “I will give him more money than he’s trying to cover up with. He should return my daughter,” the father stated, asserting that no amount of money could bring back his daughter. He further accused government officials of attempting to settle the case with money, saying, “Since the first day, there has been an attempt to cover up with money. The DC North government employee himself is coming to pay the money. Today he is saying it publicly. I will give him more money than he wants to buy me with. Give him my daughter back.”

In response, Madan Mitra expressed sympathy for the victim, but he also criticized the shifting stance of the victim’s family. “We also shed tears for Tilottama,” he said, referring to the victim by name. Mitra recalled that the family initially demanded the death penalty, then called for a CBI investigation, and later expressed dissatisfaction with the Kolkata Police’s handling of the case. “The CBI investigated for two and a half to three months, and the court ruled that this is not a ‘rarest of rare’ case, so hanging cannot happen,” Mitra explained, adding that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had no involvement in the case.

Mitra went on to challenge the family’s demands for compensation, questioning how much they wanted. He pointedly questioned the family’s compensation expectations, suggesting that the amount of money required for the victim’s treatment—reportedly 16 crore rupees—should be made clear to the public. “If you don’t say clearly what you want, how will it be done?” Mitra asked. He implied that the nation’s population, including political leaders like Mamata Banerjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, would be able to contribute to such funds if a specific figure was provided.

The ongoing exchange highlights the deep divisions between the political figures involved and the victim’s family, with both sides holding firm to their positions. While the victim’s family insists on justice and rejects any financial settlement as a substitute, Mitra and others seem focused on the specifics of compensation. As the case continues, it remains to be seen how the tensions will impact the search for justice and resolution.

Hooghly District Officials Hold Block-Level Review Meetings to Assess Government Project Benefits

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 29, 2025,  Hooghly: Review meetings are being conducted across Hooghly district on a block-by-block basis to assess the impact of government initiatives on the local population. District Magistrate Mukta Arya, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Block Development Officers (BDOs), and public representatives are actively participating in these meetings, which involve visiting the homes of beneficiaries and holding neighborhood discussions. The primary aim is to evaluate how effectively common people are benefiting from various government projects.


On Tuesday, officials visited Dhaniakhali to conduct their inquiries. They visited a school in Manikpur, where they engaged with students and assessed the progress of education. The team, led by District Magistrate Mukta Arya, Hooghly Zilla Parishad President Ranjan Dhara, and Dhaniakhali MLA Asima Patra, took part in interactive teaching sessions. They taught a physics lesson by writing on the board, engaging directly with the students. During their visit, they also took time to sit with students and understand their readings, aiming to gauge the quality of education being delivered.


After the visit, Ranjan Dhara expressed satisfaction with the progress in the school, stating, “We visited a school in Manikpur, where we saw several talented children. They answered our questions confidently, and the board demonstrated that many bright students are emerging from government schools as well. This was evident during our visit to the school in Dhaniakhali.”

The ongoing review meetings are part of the district’s efforts to ensure transparency and assess the ground-level impact of government schemes. Officials are committed to monitoring the progress of these initiatives to ensure they reach and benefit the communities they aim to serve. 

Mamata Banerjee Inaugurates 48th International Kolkata Book Fair, Emphasizing the Timeless Value of Books


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 29, 2025, Kolkata :  West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the 48th International Kolkata Book Fair on Tuesday, likening the fair to a tree and highlighting the enduring relevance of books in an increasingly digital world. The event took place at the Milon Mela premises of Central Park at 5 PM, where the Chief Minister ceremoniously struck the gavel 48 times to mark the occasion.

During her address, Banerjee expressed the pride the state takes in the Kolkata Book Fair, asserting that despite the rise of digital media, the significance of physical books remains undiminished. “The book fair is our pride. The importance of books has not diminished even in the digital age. The Kolkata Book Fair is the best in the country. Books are our inspiration, direction,” Banerjee stated, adding that over 30 crore books were sold at last year’s fair.

In her metaphorical comparison, Banerjee referred to the fair as a “book tree,” emphasizing that while a tree may not speak, books have the power to communicate, inspire, and preserve history. She reflected on the role of books in shaping lives, stating, “Books are the design of our hearts. They take us down memory lane and provide us with all the knowledge we need.”

The inauguration also included a moment to honor renowned writer Abul Bashar with the prestigious ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ presented by the Guild. Banerjee personally conferred the award upon Bashar, recognizing his significant contributions to literature.

This year, Germany is the theme country of the fair, marking the first time it has held this distinction. However, the fair also saw a notable absence, as Bangladesh, which had previously been a prominent participant, is not featured this year. Other countries involved in the fair include the United States, France, Italy, Britain, Spain, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru.

For security and logistical ease, the organizers have deployed 1,500 police personnel each day. Additionally, numerous arrangements have been made for transportation to the venue. This year’s fair boasts over a thousand book stalls, showcasing a vast array of literary works. Notably, the fair’s main entrance has been named in honor of legendary film director Ritwik Ghatak and renowned music composer Salil Chowdhury, further celebrating Bengal’s cultural heritage.

The 48th Kolkata Book Fair will continue until February 9, 2025. The inauguration ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including German Ambassador to India Philipp Akaran, writer Abul Bashar, Goethe Institute Regional Director Marla Stukenberg, and Tridib Chatterjee, President of the Publishers and Booksellers Guild, among others.

Bengal Government Approves Land Allocation for BSF in Karimpur for Border Security

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 28, 2025, Kolkata: In a significant move aimed at enhancing border security, the West Bengal government has approved the allocation of land for the Border Security Force (BSF) in the state. In a cabinet meeting held on Monday, the state government decided to provide 0.9 acres of land in Karimpur, Nadia, to the BSF. The land will potentially be used for the construction of an outpost, as well as for the necessary fencing of the border in the region.


Sources revealed that the BSF had informed the state government about the challenges they were facing in carrying out border security operations due to the lack of land. The force had communicated that without this land, they were encountering significant difficulties in completing their duties effectively. Following this, the matter was discussed thoroughly in the state cabinet meeting, which ultimately led to the approval of the land allocation.

Although the land in Karimpur has been approved for the BSF’s use, there has been no official response from the force on the decision yet. The move is seen as part of ongoing efforts to bolster security measures along the state’s borders.

Bengal BJP Leaders to Campaign for Ramesh Bidhuri in Upcoming Delhi Assembly Elections

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 28, 2025, Delhi: The Delhi Assembly elections are fast approaching, with intense political rivalry already marking the campaign season. The battle for power between the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reached new heights as leaders from both parties gear up for the final push. In a notable development, Bengal BJP leaders have joined the campaign efforts for their Delhi counterparts, with prominent figures such as Locket Chatterjee taking a lead role.


On Saturday, Locket Chatterjee, the former MP from Hooghly, addressed a public meeting and held a party gathering in support of BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri. The meeting took place in Kalkaji Govindpuri, a key constituency in Delhi. Ramesh Bidhuri has emerged as the BJP’s candidate in the high-stakes contest against Delhi’s current Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal. Bidhuri has garnered significant media attention over the years for his controversial remarks, and his candidacy has sparked debate due to his frequent comments on political opponents, including his recent remarks about Atishi and her family.

Chatterjee’s involvement in the Delhi campaign reflects the BJP’s strategic push to bolster its presence in the national capital. Additionally, Shuvendu Adhikari, a senior BJP leader from Bengal, is expected to visit Delhi to campaign on January 29 and 30. Alongside him, Agnimitra Paul, another influential female face of the Bengal BJP, is also slated to participate in the Delhi election campaign.

As the countdown to the Delhi Assembly elections continues, the competition between AAP and BJP intensifies, and the outcome of this fierce political battle is anticipated with great interest across the country.

Sealdah Court Sentences Sanjay Roy to Life Imprisonment in RG Kar Case; Legal Dispute Continues in High Court

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 28, 2025, Kolkata :  In a significant development, Judge Anirban Das of the Sealdah Court has sentenced Sanjay Roy to life imprisonment till death following his conviction in the RG Kar case. Despite widespread public outcry calling for the maximum punishment, the judge’s ruling emphasized that the crime did not meet the criteria for the “rarest of rare” category, a point which became a key issue during the trial.


The case has since been challenged by the state in the High Court. During Monday’s proceedings, it was revealed that Sanjay Roy had expressed a desire not to have lawyer Yash represent him in the ongoing appeal. Justice Debangshu Basak informed the court that the case would continue with Legal Aid representation. The government’s lawyer, Debashis Roy, confirmed that Sanjay had written to the jail authorities, indicating his wish to dismiss Yash from his defense team.

Lawyer Yash, in response, informed the court that Sanjay wished to convey more, but was not permitted to speak. To this, the judge remarked pointedly, “But where you are not wanted as an accused, what else is there?” The judge’s comment underscored the decision that the request for a new legal representative would not be entertained at this stage, further complicating the legal proceedings surrounding the case.

As the case moves forward, it continues to capture public attention, with ongoing legal debates and uncertainty surrounding Sanjay Roy’s defense.

Parents of Deceased Doctor Demand CM Mamata Banerjee’s Resignation Over Alleged Cover-Up

Baby Chakraborty, Kolkata, January 26, 2025 : The parents of a young doctor, tragically raped and murdered at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, have made serious allegations against the administration, demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over the handling of the case.


Abhaya’s father, speaking out in a recent interview, said, “The girl was an employee of the West Bengal government. She was also a student of a government medical college. The state government is fully responsible for her death. There is no reason for the Chief Minister to remain in power under these circumstances.” His bold statement has created a stir, as the family claims that the authorities—including the hospital administration, police, and Trinamool Congress—actively worked to cover up the crime from the start.

The mother of the deceased doctor further criticized the investigation, asserting that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has failed to identify all those involved and has not properly examined key aspects of the case. She also pointed to the mishandling of the crime scene, claiming it was never cordoned off, allowing numerous individuals to freely enter and exit. The parents have raised concerns about the involvement of 68 individuals at the scene, questioning why they were allowed to move without restraint. The mother directly held Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accountable, demanding that she resign for the role the state government played in the incident.

In response, Trinamool Congress spokesperson Kunal Ghosh dismissed the parents’ remarks as politically motivated, suggesting that they were influenced by opposition parties. Ghosh defended the actions of the Chief Minister, stating that Mamata Banerjee had ordered a swift police investigation, resulting in the arrest of the accused. He also noted that the case had been handed over to the CBI under the direction of the Calcutta High Court, stressing that Mamata Banerjee was not at fault. Ghosh reiterated the party’s commitment to ensuring the maximum punishment for the culprit.

Meanwhile, one of the accused, Sanjay Roy, has claimed in Sealdah court that he is “innocent” and that he was coerced into signing certain documents. As the case continues to unfold, the dispute between the grieving family and the ruling party shows no signs of abating, with political tensions and allegations of cover-ups complicating an already tragic situation.

Political Tensions Rise Within TMC as Sujan Chakraborty and Kalyan Banerjee Target Ministers

Baby Chakraborty, Kolkata, January 26, 2025 : In an escalating political feud within the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), CPM Central Committee member Sujan Chakraborty has made scathing remarks, claiming that every minister he encounters appears to be “burning” with guilt. He called on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to take action against these ministers, urging her to expel them, although he also suggested that she lacked the courage to do so. Chakraborty, echoing concerns about corruption within the TMC, subtly alluded to the failure of certain ministers to live up to the party’s ideals.

Kalyan Banerjee, a seasoned TMC MP, also threw his own criticism at party leaders, though he did not clarify which ministers he was targeting. Banerjee, known for his outspoken views, called for a change in leadership and demanded accountability. His statements have sparked a counter-response from Shobhandeb Chatterjee, a senior minister and key Trinamool leader.

Chatterjee, addressing the allegations, issued a sharp counter-challenge, stating that if his behavior was causing discomfort or displeasure within the party, he would leave. He defended his conduct, calling himself “restrained” and suggesting that he maintained humility despite his status. His remarks reflect the deepening rift within the party, with internal divisions coming to the forefront.

Meanwhile, Adhir Chowdhury, a former Congress MP, criticized the Trinamool leaders’ dependency on Mamata Banerjee, accusing them of only holding power because of her leadership. He suggested that the leaders were living off the “wealth” of Didi (Mamata Banerjee) and yet, had not shown the proper reverence for her. His remarks added to the ongoing tensions within the TMC.

Kalyan Banerjee, who is also a member of the TMC Discipline Committee, and Trinamool MP Kunal Ghosh, further fueled the internal discord by discussing the controversial R.G. tax case. Banerjee claimed that many ministers had remained silent during crucial moments and had failed to speak out about the issue, while he and Ghosh were among the few to vocalize their concerns. Ghosh, in his own statement, expressed that a conspiracy was underway against Mamata Banerjee and emphasized that those who remained silent at the time were now trying to distance themselves from the controversy.

The internal rifts within TMC appear to be widening, with key figures criticizing each other and the leadership of Mamata Banerjee. As these political tensions unfold, the party faces mounting pressure both from within and from the opposition.


Trinamool Congress State General Secretary Kunal Ghosh said, ‘A conspiracy is going on against Mamata, I, Kalyan and a few others were vocal. It is just that the rest were not as vocal as us at that time. Kalyan Banerjee, member of the Trinamool Discipline Committee.

Major Fraud Uncovered in Newtown Call Centers, 15 Arrested in Cybercrime Raid

Baby Chakraborty, Kolkata, January 26, 2025 : A significant fraud operation running under the guise of a call center has been uncovered in Newtown, Kolkata, after a thorough investigation by the state police’s Cyber Crime Wing. The operation, which had been under surveillance for several days, was confirmed to be embezzling large sums of money by posing as a company offering software support to foreign nationals.


On the night of January 23, police raided two call centers in the area, leading to the seizure of 62 laptops and 41 mobile phones. The authorities arrested 15 individuals, including three women, in connection with the scam. The fraudsters were reportedly using the call centers to extract money from victims under the pretense of providing technical support, often targeting international clients.

Amit Rathore, DIG of the West Bengal Cyber Crime Wing, confirmed the operation’s findings, stating, “We received information through our sources about an international fake call center running operations. After thorough monitoring, we were able to confirm the fraudulent activities and carry out the raids.” Rathore also highlighted the possibility that the illicit funds were being funneled into foreign bank accounts through hawala channels, emphasizing the scale of the operation.

This breakthrough operation has led authorities to further investigate the international networks involved, with the aim of dismantling the entire fraudulent setup. The swift action by the cyber crime wing underscores the ongoing efforts to combat cyber fraud and protect the public from such deceptive schemes.

Chandranath Ghosh: The Silent Traffic Guardian of Gurap”

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 26, 2025, Kolkata : In an inspiring story of perseverance and dedication, Chandranath Ghosh from Hooghly district has become an indispensable figure in the bustling Beltola intersection of Gurap, where he controls traffic every day, despite being unable to speak.


At the tender age of one and a half, a tragic fall during a visit to a relative’s house left Chandranath with severe head injuries. After several doctor visits, he tragically lost the ability to speak, a loss that shattered his dreams of becoming a police officer. However, his indomitable spirit and desire to serve never wavered. Unable to fulfill his childhood ambition, Chandranath found his own way of contributing to his community.

For the past two years, he has taken it upon himself to manage traffic at the busy Beltola intersection in Gurap, a crucial point where long-distance buses, trekkers, and auto-totos pass through daily. Despite the challenges he faces, including a family to care for, his devotion to his role has made him a well-known and respected figure in the area.

Chandranath cycles two kilometers from his home in Rohiya village to the intersection every day, come rain or shine. Dressed in dark glasses, a traffic uniform, and armed with only a whistle, he stands firm in his duties, ensuring the safety of both pedestrians and vehicles. His unwavering commitment has earned him the admiration of locals, from businessmen to ordinary residents, all of whom appreciate his efforts.

A man of few words but profound impact, Chandranath continues to inspire those around him. He is not just a traffic controller but a symbol of resilience and service, proving that even in the face of hardship, one can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Rituparna Sengupta Responds to Political Offers Amid Rising Speculation

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Hooghly: As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections draw nearer, several stars have made their foray into politics, following in the footsteps of Hooghly MLA Rachana Banerjee, who recently announced her decision to join the political sphere in response to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s call. However, renowned Bengali actress Rituparna Sengupta, despite her longstanding friendship with Mamata Banerjee, has not yet stepped into the political arena, even though offers have reportedly come her way.


Rituparna, a beloved figure in the Bengali film industry, was recently present at the Chunchura Festival, an event organized by Chunchura Trinamool MLA Asit Majumdar. When questioned by journalists about the possibility of her entering politics, Rituparna maintained that she has always distanced herself from political affairs. “I don’t understand anything about this profession. I am an artist. I want to remain an artist,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to her craft.

However, when asked what she would do if invited personally by Mamata Banerjee to join politics, Rituparna’s response was diplomatic. “I will give that answer to the Chief Minister,” she stated, leaving the door open to future possibilities but making it clear that her primary focus remains on her career as an actress.

Rituparna, who ruled the Bengali film industry for years with numerous hit films, continues to captivate audiences with her performances. She recently took the stage at the festival to sing a song from her popular movie Ayoob, which she starred in alongside actor Prosenjit, delighting the audience with her nostalgic performance. Despite the political speculation surrounding her, Rituparna’s heart appears to remain firmly with the arts.

Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee Raises Questions on Netaji’s Disappearance on His Birth Anniversary

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Kolkata : On the occasion of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep concern over the continued mystery surrounding the leader’s disappearance. During a meeting in Kalchini, Banerjee paid tribute to Netaji and questioned the lack of transparency regarding his fate.


Banerjee suggested that Netaji’s disappearance may have been the result of a conspiracy, highlighting that the state had released 64 files related to the issue, but the Centre has yet to make its own secret files public. “Why is the Centre withholding these crucial documents?” she asked, underlining the need for full disclosure to unravel the truth behind Netaji’s disappearance.

The Chief Minister also reflected on the values Netaji espoused, emphasizing his message of unity and inclusion across religious lines. “Netaji taught us to take all religions together, to think about everyone. The one who thinks about everyone, who takes everyone together, fought so much for this cause. Where did he disappear? I know his birthday, but I do not know his death date. It’s sad to think that I still don’t know what happened to him,” Banerjee remarked.

In her address, Banerjee reiterated her criticism of the central government, particularly under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, for failing to release important files, citing national security and foreign policy as reasons for withholding the information.

Supreme Court Postpones RG Kar Case Hearing by a Week

Baby Chakravarti, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has deferred the hearing of the RG Kar case by one week. The division bench, consisting of Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Justice KV Vishwanathan, and Justice Sanjay Kumar, announced on Wednesday that the case will now be heard on January 29, 2025, at 2 PM. The postponement follows a request from Abhaya’s parents to present their views on the matter anew.


Originally scheduled for January 23, the case was listed as item number 42 before the division bench of the Chief Justice. However, the court decided to reschedule the hearing. The RG Kar case has gained significant attention since the Supreme Court took up the matter suo motu in December last year, initially stating that hearings would resume in the third week of June.

Adding to the complexity of the case, the lower court recently sentenced Sanjay Roy, the convict in the RG Kar case, to life imprisonment. This decision has sparked debate, with critics questioning why the court did not classify the crime as “rarest of the rare.” Neither side has expressed satisfaction with the verdict.

Following the lower court’s ruling, the state government has appealed to the High Court, seeking the death penalty for Sanjay Roy. The High Court is set to hear this appeal on Monday, January 27, 2025.

The RG Kar case continues to generate widespread public interest, with the legal proceedings in both the Supreme Court and the High Court anticipated to shape the future discourse around justice and sentencing in such cases.

Passengers Face Disruption as Metro Services Cancelled Due to Mechanical Glitch

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Kolkata: Metro passengers in Kolkata faced significant inconvenience on Wednesday afternoon as three consecutive metro services were cancelled following a mechanical glitch. The incident caused chaos at Dum Dum station, leading to injuries for one passenger during a rush to board a train.


According to Kolkata Metro Rail sources, the issue arose at 12:40 PM when a train traveling from Dakshineswar to Kabi Subhash encountered a mechanical failure and failed to start. Passengers were evacuated, and the malfunctioning rake was removed from the line. Services resumed after a brief interval, with the next train running within ten minutes.

Despite efforts to normalize operations, the cancellation of three trains created a bottleneck, leading to crowding and frustration among passengers. Although additional metro services were introduced to manage the situation, the large crowd remained difficult to control.

During the rush, Putul De, a Belgharia resident, fell and injured her leg as she was pushed by other passengers while attempting to board a metro at Dum Dum station. Other passengers reported difficulty boarding due to the commotion.

While some passengers voiced concerns about overcrowding and poor crowd management, a metro official refuted claims of chaos, stating, “There was no rush among the passengers. We are constantly monitoring the CCTV cameras.”

The incident has reignited discussions on the importance of efficient metro services and crowd management to ensure passenger safety, particularly during peak hours or unforeseen disruptions.

Vishnu Idol from Post-Gupta Era Unearthed at Hooghly School

Baby Chakravarti, KalimNews, January 23, 2025, Kolkata: A remarkable sandstone idol of Vishnu, believed to be from the post-Gupta era, has been discovered at Bandel Vikramnagar Harnath Nirada Sudandi Ghosh High School in Hooghly. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has confirmed its immense historical value and is conducting further research to determine its precise origins.


The discovery occurred on January 17 during soil excavation for the construction of a bicycle stand on the school premises. The unearthed soil was deposited in a corner of the school field. It was there that two ninth-grade students, Jyoti Mondal and Mohini Sarkar, stumbled upon the statue while playing. Recognizing its uniqueness, they promptly reported it to Bhulore teacher Sangamitra Palit and English teacher Karuna Chatterjee, who immediately understood its historical significance.

Saikat Das, the school’s headmaster, expressed pride in the discovery, emphasizing its educational and cultural importance. Biswarup Dey, the school’s history teacher with a background in archaeology, conducted initial research and suggested the artifact could belong to the Gupta era. Following his advice, the school authorities contacted the ASI, providing photographs of the artifact for analysis. The ASI confirmed its significant historical value and advised stringent security measures to prevent theft, especially as the school had experienced theft incidents in the past.


The idol was secured in a safe vault until today when Assistant Superintendent of Archaeology (Kolkata Circle) Dr. Sanjay Panda and ASI official Pradeep Kar Harnath visited the school. They conducted a detailed examination of the statue and surveyed the site of its discovery.

Preliminary analysis suggests the idol, depicting a standing figure of Vishnu, may date back approximately a thousand years. The archaeologists noted that the Ganges once flowed through this region, and similar statues have been uncovered in the surrounding 24 Parganas area. The statue will now be transported for further analysis and comparison to determine its exact period and context.

The discovery has created excitement among students and teachers alike, adding a fascinating chapter to the school’s history. The incident highlights the rich cultural and historical heritage embedded in the region’s soil, waiting to be unearthed and preserved.

Madan Mitra’s Fiery Remarks Highlight Internal Turmoil in Trinamool Congress

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 19, 2025, Kolkata: In the midst of growing internal discord within the Trinamool Congress, party MLA Madan Mitra has stirred fresh controversy with sharp comments targeting party councilors. Speaking at a recent event in Belgharia, Mitra admonished councilors who allegedly disregard party workers and supporters, delivering a scathing critique of their conduct.


Mitra urged supporters to bypass indifferent councilors and contact him directly, stating, “If any councilor thinks of you as his servant and does not care, there’s no need to care about them. I’ll ensure they are held accountable.” He further taunted such councilors, claiming, “If the Trinamool cloth is taken away from them, they will not even find food to eat.”

The remarks, made in Mitra’s characteristic candid style, have sparked debate within the party. Once a heavyweight leader and a close confidant of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Mitra’s role within the party has diminished in recent years. His public rebuke of councilors, combined with the invocation of Banerjee’s name, has been perceived by some as an unprecedented move, reflecting dissatisfaction with the party’s internal dynamics.

This is not the first time internal unrest has surfaced in the Trinamool Congress. MLA Mohammad Abdul Gani recently lamented that party leaders, including those in top administrative positions, are often ignored. Following the murder of Dulal Sarkar in Malda, Gani remarked, “No one is listening anymore.”

Mitra’s bold statements have left political observers questioning whether they will deepen existing divisions within the party. Many within the Trinamool view the remarks as reflective of broader dissatisfaction among grassroots workers, while others worry that such public criticism could damage the party’s unity ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.

The ongoing tensions raise critical questions about the Trinamool Congress’s ability to maintain cohesion as it prepares to navigate the challenges of internal strife and electoral competition.