Category Archives: States

West Bengal

Five-Year-Old Child Drowns in Floodwaters While Bathing with Parents in Ghatal

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 30 September 2024, West Medinipur: A tragic incident unfolded in the Argora area of Ward No. 2, Ghatal Municipality, where a five-year-old child drowned in floodwaters. The child, who had been bathing with his parents near a stream to attend a relative’s funeral on Monday morning, lost his life despite immediate rescue efforts.


According to local sources, several residents had warned the family against approaching the dangerous stream. Unfortunately, while his parents were distracted, the child ventured near the water and suddenly slipped into the floodwaters. As the parents rushed to save him, they too found themselves in danger.

A police unit and a special disaster management team were called to the scene. After a tense two-hour search, conducted with the assistance of local residents, the child was found and immediately taken to a hospital. Sadly, doctors declared the child dead upon arrival.

This heart-wrenching incident has cast a pall of mourning over the entire community, with locals deeply shaken by the untimely death of the young boy.
Politics, West Bengal

TMC Women Unite in 200 km Human Chain Across West Bengal

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KalimNews, September 30, 2024, Kolkata: A significant human chain program was held today in Kolkata, Chinsurah, and Kulpi block, organized by the Mahila Trinamool Congress in various legislative assemblies. Law and Health Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya called for a 200 km human chain across the state, emphasizing women’s empowerment and expressing gratitude for the swift trial of victims in the RG Kar case.


Minister Bhattacharya stated, “I don’t know what the opposition is doing. We are making our demands clear.” She highlighted that the RG Kar case was scheduled for hearing today, with Chief Justice DY Chandrachud confirming that the case would be addressed after 2 PM. The Supreme Court had previously discussed the case on August 27, with the Chief Justice indicating that further hearings would occur based on the state government’s application.

In a related development, the court granted permission for a doctors’ march protesting the RG Kar case. Justice Rajarshi Bharadwaj allowed the march from College Square to Rabindra Sadan on October 1, from 5 PM to 8 PM, while ensuring adequate volunteers are present during the procession.
In Chinsurah, under Hooghly district, women rallied under the slogan “My hand in your hand, we are all with Didi.” This event, initiated by Health Minister Bhattacharya, was organized to express gratitude to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her developmental projects. Various locations in the city, including Mor, Rabindranagar Petrol Pump, Sarat Sarani, and Bali Mor, hosted the “Human Bonding Program.” Trinamool leaders, including Chinsurah MLA Asit Majumdar, participated in these gatherings.

Additionally, the Trinamool Women’s Organization organized a 175 km human chain event today to honor party leader Mamata Banerjee. Women members from 35 districts participated, creating a 5 km chain in each district from noon until afternoon. In Kulpi block, the program was led by local leaders, including Trinamool Congress President Supriya Halder and Youth President Samsur Alam Mir. Participants expressed their support for Banerjee, chanting, “Aarmi Kaat Tukei, we are all with Didi.”

This event marks a concerted effort to unite women across West Bengal in support of their leader and to celebrate the empowerment initiatives undertaken by the state government.
Games & Sports, West Bengal

East Bengal Club Head Coach Carlos Cuadrat Resigns

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Kalim News, September 30, 2024, Kolkata: Carlos Cuadrat has officially resigned as the head coach of East Bengal Club following a disappointing start to the season.


Under Cuadrat’s leadership, East Bengal ended a 12-year trophy drought by winning the Super Cup last year. The team also managed to defeat their long-time rivals, Mohun Bagan, in the Durand Cup group stage after eight consecutive derby losses. However, they ultimately finished as runners-up in the competition, losing to Mohun Bagan in the final.

This season, East Bengal, in partnership with investor Emami, invested heavily to assemble a competitive squad, signing Indian stars like Jackson Singh and Anwar Ali for approximately 6 crore rupees. Additionally, they brought in high-profile players such as last year’s golden boot winner, Diamantaks, and Madhi Talal. Despite these efforts, the team struggled, losing all three of their opening matches.

Following a recent home defeat to Goa FC, fan frustration boiled over, with chants of “go back” directed at Cuadrat during the match. This marks East Bengal’s worst performance since the 2020-21 season.

The decision for Cuadrat’s resignation was made after discussions between the Emami East Bengal board and the coach. In the interim, Bino George will take over head coaching duties.

Shri Bivas Aggarwal from the Emami Group commented, “Carlos Cuadrat led the team to the Super Cup championship last year and coached us to a runner-up position in the Durand Cup. Under his guidance, we qualified for international competitions like the AFC Cup. We wish him a bright future on behalf of the club.”

Sources indicate that former Bengaluru FC coach Simon Gration is poised to take over as East Bengal’s new head coach, having led his previous team to the finals of three competitions in one season. However, no official announcement has been made regarding this appointment yet.
Politics, West Bengal

IMA Takes Action Against Trinamool MLA Humayun Kabir Over Controversial Comments

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, Kolkata: Trinamool MLA Humayun Kabir has once again found himself at the center of controversy following his recent explosive remarks, which include criticism of the junior doctors’ movement related to the RG Kar case. Accusations of intimidation have prompted the Indian Medical Association (IMA) to take a significant step against the MLA from Murshidabad’s Bharatpur constituency.


In a letter addressed to a Supreme Court judge, IMA’s joint secretary Ranjan Bhattacharya highlighted concerns about what he described as a “threat culture” perpetuated by Kabir. The letter emphasizes the need for the safety of medical professionals and the alarming implications of the MLA’s statements. The RG Kar case is scheduled for a hearing in the Supreme Court on Monday, and it is anticipated that this issue may also be raised during the proceedings.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Kabir has reportedly dismissed the concerns raised in the letter. He stated, “We make laws. I know well what is legal and what is not.” In a striking declaration, he added, “If I have to go to jail for someone, then after getting bail, I will gather with 50,000 people. If I am punished for not committing a crime, I will not hesitate to come back and commit a crime.”

The ongoing tensions between the Trinamool Congress and the medical community reflect broader issues of accountability and respect for healthcare professionals in the region. As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the RG Kar case, the implications of Kabir’s remarks and the IMA’s response are likely to resonate throughout the political and medical landscapes of West Bengal.
Crime, National, West Bengal

CBI Probes Mysterious Circumstances Surrounding Doctor’s Death Amid Evidence Tampering Allegations

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is intensifying its efforts to unravel the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of a doctor at RG Kar Hospital, particularly focusing on the autopsy report’s reference to the term “antimortem.” The agency is eager to clarify several critical questions regarding the injuries found on the victim’s body.


The CBI has meticulously compared witness statements with the injury descriptions detailed in the post-mortem report. As part of their investigation, they have interrogated the doctors responsible for conducting the autopsy, as well as the morgue staff, in an effort to solve this complex case. Key questions include whether the injuries were inflicted before or after death and whether the victim, Tilottama, was sexually assaulted prior to or following her murder. The post-mortem report indicates multiple injuries that were allegedly sustained before death, although investigators are casting doubt on the report’s accuracy.

According to CBI sources, their multiple visits to RG Kar Hospital and scrutiny of the post-mortem report have led them to believe that while Sanjay Roy may have brutally tortured the victim, the actual murder could have been committed by someone else. This revelation, along with the possibility that sexual assault occurred after death, adds a new layer of complexity to the investigation.


The CBI has summoned Dr. Apurba Biswas, the post-mortem doctor, along with other staff members for further questioning at the CGO complex. Additionally, two seized mobile phones have been sent for forensic analysis. Notably, one of these phones belonged to an influential doctor with ties to former RG Kar chief Sandeep Ghosh. Investigators discovered that many crucial images, call recordings, and messages had been deleted from both devices, raising concerns that vital evidence related to the conspiracy may have been lost.

Details regarding the alleged conspiracy and evidence tampering by Dr. Sandeep Ghosh, who has been arrested, have emerged in court. If the CBI successfully proves the charges against him, Ghosh could face the death penalty for his involvement in evidence tampering and conspiracy. In a recent directive, a judge noted, “The scale of the charges is serious. If proved, this could lead to capital punishment, which is reserved for the rarest of cases. Therefore, it would be unjust to grant bail on these charges.”

As the investigation unfolds, the CBI is working diligently to piece together the facts surrounding this troubling case, seeking justice for the victim while holding accountable those who may have attempted to obstruct the truth.
Regional, West Bengal

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Convenes Administrative Meeting Amid North Bengal Flood Crisis

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, Siliguri : Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee convened an urgent administrative meeting at Uttarkanya in Siliguri on Sunday to address the escalating flood situation in North Bengal, which has been severely impacted by the waters of the Koshi River. The flooding has affected vast areas, stretching from Malda to Kalimpong and into the hills of Darjeeling.


During her visit, the Chief Minister noted the persistent disruptions to traffic on National Highway No. 10, which has not yet returned to normalcy. Many residents have been forced to take shelter in relief camps after their homes were swept away by the relentless flooding. “Many residents of North Bengal have been affected by the water of the Koshi River in Nepal, which has entered Bengal from Bihar,” she explained while speaking at Dum Dum Airport before heading to the meeting. “Malda has also experienced severe flooding due to rising water levels in the Shangkos River.”

The flood crisis has led to significant communication challenges, especially with Sikkim, as parts of National Highway No. 10 have collapsed. The situation in various districts of the plains remains critical, exacerbated by water releases from the Teesta Barrage, which have contributed to flooding in Jalpaiguri and surrounding areas. A yellow alert has been issued by the Meteorological Department, advising residents near riverbanks to evacuate.

The flood crisis is not limited to Bengal; Nepal has been grappling with heavy rains for the past three days, resulting in widespread destruction and triggering massive landslides. So far, 112 fatalities have been reported in Nepal, with the capital, Kathmandu, suffering considerable damage.

As Banerjee prepared to address the flooding in North Bengal, she emphasized the interconnected nature of the crisis: “There is a flood situation in Bihar due to the Koshi River, and water is entering the northern side of our state through Bihar. We must remain vigilant as South Dinajpur may also be at risk of flooding.” She criticized the lack of dredging at the Farakka Barrage, which she believes has exacerbated the flooding.

Concerns are growing that the flood situation in Manikach, Malda, could worsen as waters from the Koshi and Gandak rivers continue to spread into Bengal. Areas including Bhutani in Manikach are at heightened risk of further inundation.

Meanwhile, Minister Firad Hakim, who visited the flood-affected areas on Saturday, has faced backlash after allegations surfaced that relief supplies were mismanaged or looted. Residents of Bhootnirchar have voiced their frustrations, claiming they did not receive the assistance they desperately need.

As the situation develops, the Chief Minister has vowed to provide necessary support and resources to those affected, urging residents to stay cautious and prepared.
Politics, West Bengal

Congress President Subhankar Sarkar Faces Protests at Sagar Dutta Medical College Hospital

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, Kolkata : On Sunday afternoon, Pradesh Congress President Subhankar Sarkar visited Sagar Dutta Medical College Hospital, where junior doctors have been protesting in response to a violent incident that resulted in the death of a patient and subsequent attacks on medical staff. However, upon his arrival, Sarkar encountered a hostile reception, with protestors chanting slogans of “Go back” directed at him.


Despite the tension, Sarkar remained on the premises for a short time, aiming to support the agitating doctors. He later explained to reporters that he approached the hospital without any political affiliation or party flags, wishing to show solidarity with the junior doctors’ movement. “I went to Sagar Dutta without any political flag,” he stated. “I wanted to support the doctors’ protest.”

Witnesses reported that as soon as Sarkar arrived, protestors took to the microphone, urging him to leave. They emphasized, “Those who are trying to use this stage for political reasons, please join hands and request them to go back.” The protests stem from unrest that erupted after a patient died on Friday night, leading to a violent outburst from the deceased’s relatives, who attacked doctors and nurses and vandalized parts of the hospital.

Since that incident, junior doctors at Sagar Dutta Hospital have been on strike, demanding safer working conditions and justice for their colleagues. In an effort to distance themselves from political agendas, the junior doctors asserted, “Just as doctors do not look at the religion or caste of the patient during treatment, they also do not have any political identity.”

Responding to the protestors’ chants, Sarkar insisted that they did not explicitly tell him to leave, stating, “I went and talked to them. They thanked us for not bringing the flag.” The incident highlights the complex intersection of healthcare and politics in the state, as junior doctors continue to advocate for their rights and safety in the wake of recent violence.
Economy, Politics, Regional, West Bengal

Chief Minister Visits Flood-Hit North Bengal, Blames Central Government for Flooding

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KalimNews, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, Kolkata: As the Durga Puja festivities approach, vast areas of North Bengal are grappling with severe flooding. The situation has escalated into chaos, affecting regions from Malda in the plains to Kalimpong in the hills and Darjeeling. National Highway 10 has been closed, disrupting normal communication and transport.


Amid this crisis, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has embarked on a visit to North Bengal to assess the unfolding disaster. Before her journey, she expressed frustration at the central government, stating, “No one has inquired about the flood situation in Bengal.” She fears that conditions may deteriorate further due to anticipated releases of water from rivers in Nepal.

Banerjee attributed much of the flooding to the lack of dredging at the Farakka Barrage, which has led to significant silt accumulation and reduced water storage capacity. “There has been no help from the central government to address the flood situation in the state. No one has paid a single penny or even looked our way,” she declared. Several areas of North Bengal are currently inundated due to the Koshi River, with water starting to flow into Bengal through Bihar, exacerbating the crisis.

The flooding has severely impacted communication between Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Mirik in Sikkim. The Chief Minister highlighted that the rising water levels of the Sankosh River have caused floods in Malda, further endangering nearby regions.

Forecasts from the Meteorological Department indicate that more rain is expected in the coming days, which could worsen the already dire situation. “Some new areas may become inundated,” Banerjee warned. She noted that approximately 500,000 cusecs of water from the Koshi River has been released from Nepal, threatening further flooding in Malda, Murshidabad, Itahar in South Dinajpur, and other large areas.

In light of these developments, the Chief Minister has directed local administrations to implement evacuation protocols and issue warnings to residents. Additionally, she pointed out that Nepal is also suffering from heavy rains, contributing to the widespread flooding across the region.

“The entire country is grappling with this crisis, yet Bengal is the only state that has been deprived of necessary flood compensation,” Banerjee emphasized. As North Bengal continues to face this unprecedented challenge, the call for urgent assistance and intervention from the central government grows louder.
Education, Northeast

Gorkha Community Honors IIT-Guwahati Scientist Dr. Sagar Bhattarai for Exceptional Achievement

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Nanda Kirati Dewan, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Guwahati, Assam – The Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh, a national social organization representing Gorkhas in India, celebrated the remarkable accomplishments of Dr. Sagar Bhattarai, a postdoctoral researcher at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, on Wednesday. Dr. Bhattarai has gained international acclaim by ranking among the top 2% of scientists worldwide, as identified by Stanford University, USA.


A delegation from the Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh, led by Assam State Committee President Amar Adhikari, along with National President Nityananda Upadhyay, National Joint Secretary General Prakash Dahal, and other prominent members, visited Dr. Bhattarai’s residence in TK Grant Sipajhar, Darrang district, to present him with a ‘Citation of Appreciation,’ traditional Assamese Phoolam Gamusa, a Gorkha cap, and publications from the organization.

“This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to your dedication, hard work, and significant contributions to the field of physics and material science,” congratulated Amar Adhikari during the ceremony.
Dr. Bhattarai recently gained recognition for developing a solar device using bio-synthesized zinc oxide derived from “Gundruk,” a traditional Gorkha food. This innovative project not only showcases the potential of sustainable technologies but also highlights the intersection of cultural heritage and modern science.

“Dr. Sagar Bhattarai’s work has brought international recognition to both the scientific community in India and the traditional knowledge of the Gorkha community. His contributions set an inspiring example of how cultural heritage can address global challenges,” added Adhikari.

The ranking by Stanford University is a prestigious honor, assessing scientists based on bibliometric impact, citations, and overall research contributions. Dr. Bhattarai’s achievement reflects the significant impact of his work on the global scientific community.

Dr. Bhattarai, son of Hindi teacher Tanka Prasad Bhattarai and homemaker Jharna Bhattarai, began his education in a vernacular medium. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Gauhati University and a Master’s degree from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Arunachal Pradesh, before completing his PhD. Currently, he serves as a postdoctoral fellow at IIT-Guwahati and is an Adjunct Faculty member at Chitkara University, Punjab.

The recognition by Stanford University’s top 2% scientist ranking highlights Dr. Bhattarai’s influence, as it includes only the most impactful researchers from a pool of over 180,000 active scientists worldwide, evaluated through metrics such as citations and h-index across various scientific fields.

The Bharatiya Gorkha Parisangh continues to spearhead initiatives to recognize and celebrate talents within the Gorkha community, fostering connections and building a national network of Indian Gorkhas across all sectors.
West Bengal

Proposal to Establish Rani Rasmani Dham on Her 232nd Birthday Celebrated with Grand Festivities

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Calcutta – The 232nd birthday of Lokmata Rani Rasmani was commemorated with a significant proposal to establish the Rani Rasmani Dham, presented during a vibrant celebration organized by the Lokmata Rani Rasmani Abirbhava Tithi Celebration Committee. The event took place at the Jaganmata Ramakrishna Sevashram Sangha Ashram, located near Charanandanbati Rani Rasmani Ghat in Halishahar.


Siddhananda Purkait, the chief manager of the event, outlined the proposal for the Dham, emphasizing its vision as a permanent center dedicated to Rani Rasmani’s legacy. The initiative aims to serve as a hub for her biographical study while promoting education, culture, and community service to foster a progressive society.

The morning festivities featured a colorful procession that wound through neighborhoods including Charanandanbati, Shaheed Palli, Bagmor, and the ancestral residence at Golabari. Swami Kalikrishnananda Maharaj led a tribute to Rani Rasmani’s statue in Baghmore, highlighting her as a pivotal figure in the renaissance of Indian religious culture.

The main assembly showcased a gathering of esteemed individuals, including doctors, professors, artists, and former police officers, as well as devoted attendees from across West Bengal. Key speakers, such as Swami Paramatmananda Puri and Professor Dr. Bhaskar Mahanayak, reviewed various aspects of Rani Rasmani’s impactful life. Loharam Roy, the organizing committee’s adviser, delivered the welcome address, while performances by Deepanvita Das Biswas, Manali Purkait, Satyaranjan Biswas, and members of the Ranaghat Singers Association enriched the celebrations.

The event culminated in a renewed commitment to honoring Rani Rasmani’s contributions to society and culture, as community leaders and devotees united to advocate for the establishment of the Dham, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Crime, West Bengal

Police on High Alert for Potential Terror Attacks in Mumbai During Festival Season

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Calcutta – In light of intelligence reports indicating a potential threat of terrorist attacks during the festive season, Mumbai police have ramped up security measures across the city. With the upcoming festivals and assembly elections, authorities are taking no chances to ensure public safety.


Extra police personnel have been deployed in densely populated areas, particularly around religious sites, which are expected to see large gatherings. Security operations include extensive searches using trained sniffer dogs in various neighborhoods. To further bolster preparedness, police are conducting mock drills at two prominent religious locations, simulating emergency responses to ensure the safety of worshippers.

Deputy Police Commissioner of Mumbai stated, “The festive season is approaching, and with assembly elections on the horizon, we are committed to maintaining security in crowded areas of the city.” In some instances, well-known religious sites have been temporarily closed to facilitate thorough police searches.

Authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as the police work diligently to prevent any potential incidents of vandalism or unrest. With heightened security and proactive measures in place, the Mumbai police aim to ensure a safe and peaceful festive season for all residents and visitors.
National, Techno/ Science, West Bengal

India’s Vande Bharat Trains Set to Expand Internationally, Targeting Canada, Chile, and Malaysia

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Calcutta – India’s indigenous ‘Vande Bharat’ trains, hailed for their advanced technology, are poised for international expansion, with countries like Canada, Chile, and Malaysia expressing interest in purchasing these homegrown marvels. The global spotlight on the ‘Tejas’ train reflects the success of the Modi government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, garnering acclaim for its engineering and efficiency.


As Vande Bharat trains have captured significant attention across various routes within India, experts believe it’s only a matter of time before these trains operate overseas. The cost advantage is compelling: while similar trains in other countries range from ₹160 to ₹180 crore, India’s Vande Bharat is projected to be priced between ₹120 and ₹130 crore, making it an attractive option for potential buyers.

Speed is another selling point; the Vande Bharat train accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 52 seconds, outperforming Japan’s bullet train, which takes 54 seconds. Additionally, the design emphasizes a quiet, vibration-free ride akin to flying, along with lower electricity consumption.

With discussions around exporting these trains intensifying, the potential for India’s Vande Bharat to traverse international tracks appears imminent, marking a significant milestone in the country’s railway innovation journey.
Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Youth Leader Rajanya Halder Questions Party Suspension Over Film on RG Tax Incident

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Calcutta – Trinamool Congress youth leader Rajanya Halder has been suspended for producing a film about the controversial RG tax incident, deemed “anti-party.” The film’s producer and Halder’s husband, Thanhik Chakraborty, also a leader within the Trinamool Chhatra Parishad, has faced similar consequences. Despite their suspensions, both Halder and Chakraborty remain steadfast in their commitment to the short film project.


The controversy erupted following the release of the film’s poster on Friday, which has drawn criticism from within the party. Trinamool Congress leaders have expressed disapproval, arguing that creating a film on such a sensitive topic undermines the party’s stance. However, Halder has publicly stated that they will not alter their film, emphasizing, “No changes are being made in our project.”

In a defiant response to her suspension, Halder questioned the party’s decision-making process. “It was not a matter of taking permission from the party!” she declared. She further challenged the standards applied to her case by asking, “When Kunal Ghosh writes songs or when Dev makes movies, do they seek permission from the team?” Halder argued that filmmakers should be allowed the creative freedom to portray relevant historical contexts without seeking prior approval, asserting that such restrictions would diminish the significance of their work.

This situation underscores the tensions within the Trinamool Congress as it grapples with dissent from its ranks over creative expression and political sensitivity. The outcome of this controversy remains to be seen as both Halder and Chakraborty continue to advocate for their project amidst increasing scrutiny.
Politics, West Bengal

State Government Faces Scrutiny from Calcutta High Court Over Kolkata Police Notification

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 27, 2024, Calcutta: The state government is once again under the spotlight as the Calcutta High Court raises questions about a notification issued by the Kolkata Police. The notification, released by Lalbazar (the Kolkata Police headquarters), places restrictions on gatherings in a large section of central Kolkata, sparking controversy and legal challenges.


The notice, which prohibits the assembly of more than five people in certain key areas of the city, has become a focal point of legal debate. The restricted zones include Boubazar, Hare Street, Traffic Guard, and the Headquarters area—all centered around the bustling Dharmatala region. According to the notification, these restrictions are set to be in place from September 25 to November 23, 2024, a period that overlaps with several major festivals, including Durga Puja.

The state government faced tough questions during a hearing on Friday, presided over by Justice Rajshree Bharadwaj of the Calcutta High Court. The central issue revolved around whether the state would reconsider or withdraw the police notification, especially given the upcoming festive season, which typically draws large crowds. Justice Bharadwaj pointedly asked, “Is there any reason to withdraw this notification, or will all pujas in the area have to be stopped?”

The timing of the notification, issued just days before the start of Durga Puja preparations, has raised several concerns, particularly among community organizers. The restriction on gatherings has been seen by some as an attempt to curb potential protests during the festive period, sparking confusion and speculation about the motive behind the move.

The state’s counsel responded to the court, noting that such restrictions, including the enforcement of Section 163, have historically been in place in areas like KC Das to Victoria House, even in past years. However, the state also acknowledged that this year’s notification has introduced an extended enforcement area, including the Bentinck Street area, which has led to some confusion.

Advocate Vikas Ranjan Bhattacharya, representing the petitioners, raised concerns about the impact of the police directive on the numerous pujas and community celebrations held within the restricted zones. The court sought clarification from the state on how these restrictions would affect the festive proceedings in police stations where major pujas are organized.

The notification has drawn criticism for potentially disrupting the city’s biggest cultural and religious events, and many argue that the timing of its enforcement is poorly planned. Several civic groups and political commentators have questioned whether the move is aimed at stifling political protests rather than addressing public safety, adding a layer of complexity to the legal proceedings.

As tensions rise over the notification, the Calcutta High Court has scheduled another hearing on the matter for next Monday, where further arguments will be presented. The outcome of this case could have significant implications not only for the state government but also for the city’s cultural landscape during one of the most important festival seasons of the year. 
Education, Politics, West Bengal

Upper Primary Merit List Released Following Calcutta High Court Order: A 9-Year Wait Ends for 14,000 Candidates

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 26 September 2024, Calcutta – After nearly nine years of delays and legal hurdles, job aspirants for upper primary teaching positions in West Bengal can finally see light at the end of the tunnel. The long-awaited merit list for over 14,000 vacancies was published on Wednesday evening on the School Service Commission (SSC) website, following a directive from the Calcutta High Court.


The recruitment process had been stalled due to a series of legal challenges since 2015. The situation became more complicated with the cancellation of recruitment efforts by the High Court in 2020, followed by an order in 2023 allowing the publication of a panel. Since then, the case passed through multiple hearings, including the Division Bench of the High Court.

In its August 2024 ruling, the Calcutta High Court instructed the SSC to release the merit list within four weeks. That order culminated in the list being published on Wednesday, finally clearing the way for the stalled recruitment process. Education Minister Bratya Basu had earlier signaled that the merit list was ready for release, providing hope to job seekers who had been waiting anxiously.

As a result of the High Court’s decision, the recruitment of 14,052 candidates must be finalized by November 21. According to the SSC, a total of 14,339 vacancies are available, and the publication of the merit list marks a crucial step toward filling these long-standing positions.

For the thousands of aspirants who have been waiting since 2015, the release of the merit list represents the fulfillment of their long-standing demands. “The wait of almost nine years is finally over,” said one hopeful candidate, expressing the relief shared by many.

However, the legal process has not yet concluded entirely. The case has now reached the Supreme Court, although the High Court’s recent ruling has paved the way for the recruitment to proceed without further delays at this stage.

With the list now available and the recruitment process back on track, the aspirants are one step closer to securing long-awaited teaching jobs, bringing an end to nearly a decade of uncertainty.
Misc, West Bengal

Low Pressure Causes Havoc in West Medinipur: Debra Block Submerged, Residents Desperate for Relief

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 26 September 2024, West Medinipur – Relentless rainfall and the release of water from multiple streams have left large parts of West Bengal’s West Medinipur district, particularly Debra block, reeling under severe flooding. Villages along the banks of the Kansai River, including Bhavanipur, Bharatpur, Tabageria, Loada, and Trilochanpur, are among the worst affected, with Trilochanpur facing the brunt of nature’s fury.


Residents in these areas are grappling with extreme hardships, as their homes remain submerged, and access to food and clean drinking water is becoming increasingly scarce. The situation in Trilochanpur is particularly dire, with many homes still underwater. People are desperate for potable water, some resorting to drinking contaminated floodwater mixed with alum. “We have never seen such a disastrous situation before,” said one local resident with tears in his eyes.

Anger and frustration against the local administration are mounting as residents claim they have to travel up to 3 kilometers through waist- or chest-deep water to receive government-provided relief. Dry food and essentials are being distributed, but the relief effort has not been able to reach all affected areas swiftly enough.

Charitable organizations and volunteers have also stepped in to help, distributing food and relief materials to those stranded by the rising waters. In villages like Trilochanpur and Tangashree, families are surviving on this aid, with some sheltering on the upper floors of their homes where possible. For others, the situation is even grimmer—entire homes are flooded, and many have no choice but to spend nights under the open sky, waiting for the waters to recede.

With Durga Puja, the most anticipated festival for Bengalis, just around the corner, the usual festive spirit has been drowned in sorrow for these families. “The joy of Durga Puja has faded for us. We are just trying to stay alive, spending one waterlogged night after another,” said one distressed resident.

To make matters worse, heavy rain returned on Thursday due to a renewed low-pressure system. The dark clouds are bringing fresh torrents of rain, further worsening the already catastrophic situation. Residents, already disoriented by days of unrelenting flooding, now face an even bleaker future. As they wait for relief from the ceaseless downpour, their hopes rest on a swift resolution to the nightmare they are enduring. Many are turning to the divine, praying to Goddess Durga (Uma) for an end to the disaster.

The question on everyone’s minds remains: when will this watery nightmare end, and when will the residents of Debra block find respite from nature’s wrath?
Career / Jobs, Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Announces 12,000 New Police Jobs Amid Festive Cheer, Pending Court Case

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 26 September 2024, Calcutta – In a significant announcement ahead of the Durga Puja festivities, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee revealed that 12,000 new positions will soon be available in the West Bengal Police. Speaking at a high-profile meeting in Nabanna on Thursday, Banerjee stated that the recruitment notification would be officially published on Monday, bringing a wave of excitement to job seekers across the state.


This surprise announcement came right after a major health sector review meeting. Banerjee’s declaration of the police recruitment drive has been met with enthusiasm, particularly among aspiring candidates eager for government employment. “It is a welcome relief ahead of the festive season,” said one job seeker, reflecting the collective optimism sparked by the announcement.

However, the Chief Minister also acknowledged that the recruitment process is subject to an ongoing legal case. “The posts will be filled, but we must first resolve the legal entanglements. Once that’s sorted, the recruitment will proceed,” Banerjee clarified, urging patience while the matter is addressed in court. The court case, which pertains to certain procedural aspects of the hiring process, has caused some delay, but the Chief Minister assured that once legal hurdles are cleared, the recruitment will move forward swiftly.

This development comes as a double boon, with the festive spirit of Puja amplified by the promise of new job opportunities in the state. The 12,000 vacancies, which include both new and previously unfilled positions, are expected to bolster the state’s law enforcement capabilities.

Mamata Banerjee’s announcement is seen as a strategic move ahead of the upcoming elections, showcasing her government’s focus on employment and development. With law enforcement playing a critical role in maintaining order in the state, especially during high-profile events like Durga Puja, the move is likely to boost both public morale and security in the region.

As the legal process unfolds, all eyes will be on Monday’s official notification, with thousands eagerly awaiting their chance to join the West Bengal Police force.