Category Archives: States

West Bengal

Protest at Assembly Demands Reinstatement of 32,965 Teachers Dismissed by High Court Verdict

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, June 16, 2025, Kolkata : A major protest took place today near the West Bengal Legislative Assembly as thousands rallied to demand immediate reinstatement of 32,965 teachers and school assistants who lost their jobs following a landmark verdict delivered by the Calcutta High Court on April 6, 2026. The ruling, which impacted candidates appointed under the Primary and School Assistant (Vidyalayasathi) recruitment process, has left thousands unemployed, many of whom had been serving in primary education roles after clearing the 2009 Teacher Eligibility Test (TET).

The affected educators, most of whom had secured jobs after a long and competitive selection process, are now facing acute financial and mental hardship. Reports of rising stress-related health issues and even suicides have surfaced among the dismissed personnel, prompting urgent calls for intervention.

To draw attention to their plight and press for a solution, the group of dismissed teachers and education workers staged a peaceful campaign near the Vidhan Sabha. Their primary demand was the immediate reinstatement of all 32,965 affected individuals and a permanent resolution to the issue through legislative or executive action.

The protest was supported by members of several civil society organizations, including We Are The Common People, People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), Bengal Students’ Unite, and the All India Human Rights Organisation, under the banner of the West Bengal Democratic Civil Society.

Subhajit Duttagupta, a prominent member of the West Bengal Democratic Citizens’ Forum and editor of We Are The Common People, addressed the gathering. He called for swift governmental action to safeguard the jobs of eligible candidates from the 2016 School Service Commission (SSC) panel and demanded the withdrawal of the controversial notification and gazette issued by the SSC regarding re-examination procedures. Duttagupta also insisted on the immediate public release of approximately 22 lakh OMR mirror image copies, relating to eligible and awaiting candidates — including those not called for verification.

He further urged the state government to convene an emergency session of the Assembly to resolve this escalating crisis. While not all member organizations of the West Bengal Democratic Citizens’ Forum could attend the event on short notice, Duttagupta confirmed that the forum stands in full solidarity with the movement and will continue to support future campaigns for justice.

The demonstrators have appealed directly to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, seeking her urgent intervention in the matter. They emphasized the importance of preserving the livelihoods of qualified educators and the stability of the state’s public education system.

As the movement gathers momentum, the affected teachers and their supporters remain hopeful that the government will respond with empathy and a prompt solution, acknowledging both the legal complexity and the human cost of the verdict.

West Bengal

State Extends Relief to Khidirpur Market Fire Victims; CM Promises Rebuilding and Support

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | June 13, 2025 | Kolkata  :  he state government has assured full support to those affected by the devastating fire that broke out in the Orphanganj Market of Khidirpur in the early hours of Sunday. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the site directly from the Assembly on Monday and pledged comprehensive assistance to the affected traders. She announced that a new market will be constructed at the government’s expense, with no financial burden placed on the traders. The new market, to be built by the municipal corporation, will incorporate modern and scientific infrastructure, including proper firefighting systems to prevent future incidents.

In the interim, temporary arrangements will be made to ensure traders can continue their livelihood until the new market is operational. The state will provide financial relief of Rs 1 lakh to traders who have lost their entire shops and Rs 50,000 to those whose shops were partially damaged. A thorough investigation is being initiated to assess the extent of damage, identify the affected traders, and compile a detailed report. To maintain safety and order, the Chief Minister directed that barricades be erected around the fire-affected zone.

The fire reportedly broke out at around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday in the Orphanganj Market, which houses warehouses storing oil and butter—materials known to accelerate fire spread. Witnesses described the flames engulfing one shop and warehouse after another in rapid succession. The fire brigade was promptly alerted, but local traders have raised concerns over delayed action, alleging that initial emergency calls received no immediate response and that attempts to contact the local Watganj police station went unanswered.

According to the traders, a call to the national emergency helpline (100) was made, after which approximately twenty fire engines arrived at the scene an hour and a half later. They also claimed that the firefighting team initially lacked sufficient water to tackle the blaze, and that it was only after water was sourced from the Ganga that the fire could be brought under control.

Despite the challenges and the devastation caused, the state government’s prompt commitment to rebuilding and rehabilitation has brought a measure of reassurance to the affected community. An official damage report is expected soon, following which compensation disbursements and rebuilding efforts will be rolled out in full force. 

Politics, West Bengal

TMC Leadership Urges Unity in Birbhum, Warns Leaders Against Intra-Party Conflict Ahead of 2026 Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews | June 15, 2025 | Kolkata : The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has issued a strong directive to senior leaders Anubrata Mondal and Kajal Sheikh to put aside personal differences and work cohesively to strengthen the party’s organizational base in Birbhum ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. At a high-level party meeting held on Saturday in Bhawanipore, Kolkata, the state leadership emphasized that any internal discord affecting electoral performance will not be tolerated and could result in consequences for those responsible.

State party president Subrata Bakshi chaired the meeting, which included the presence of key leaders such as Firhad Hakim, Aroop Biswas, and Asish Banerjee. Members of the Birbhum and North Kolkata core committees, along with district presidents and chairpersons, were summoned to assess preparedness for the upcoming July 21 Martyrs’ Day rally and to address organizational matters in the politically sensitive Birbhum district.

According to party sources, a separate closed-door discussion was held with both Anubrata Mondal and Kajal Sheikh prior to the main session. During this conversation, the two leaders were explicitly warned against continuing their public feud. The party leadership conveyed that mutual cooperation is essential for the success of TMC in the forthcoming elections and that any public disagreements, especially those involving derogatory language, would not be condoned.

This firm stance follows recent controversies involving Anubrata Mondal, who was caught in a viral audio clip allegedly using abusive language during a phone call with a police officer. Within hours of the incident gaining traction on social media, the party directed Mondal to issue a public apology, which he complied with. Law enforcement has since registered a criminal case against him under non-bailable charges.

The party also expressed concern over statements made in the media by both leaders and urged them to refrain from making any comments that could reflect poorly on the organization. Senior leaders such as Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay and Firhad Hakim reiterated the party’s commitment to maintaining internal discipline and contrasted TMC’s swift action against such behavior with what they described as inaction by other political parties in similar situations.

Amid ongoing efforts to revamp the party’s structure in Birbhum, the Trinamool Congress recently dissolved the post of district president, forming instead a seven-member core committee to manage district affairs. This organizational reshuffle is part of a broader strategy to decentralize leadership and avoid factional dominance in key regions.

Saturday’s developments underscore the TMC leadership’s intent to present a unified front and avoid any perception of internal division as the state heads toward a crucial electoral contest. The emphasis on discipline, cooperation, and accountability signals a clear message from the party’s top brass that electoral success hinges on collective effort and cohesion.

Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Rallies Behind Mamata for Martyrs’ Day Amid Internal Ripples: Mamata Sole Face of July 21 Rally

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, June 15, 2025, Kolkata :   Sudeep Banerjee has informed that this time the poster of the July 21 rally will have only the face of Supremo Mamata Banerjee. There will be no picture of the All India General Secretary.

The Trinamool Congress has called for preparations for the July 21 rally on Saturday. In response to questions from journalists, MP Sudeep Banerjee said, “The poster of the July 21 program has been given on a pen drive from the Camac Street office. There is only Mamata Banerjee’s picture there.” At the same time, he said, “Abhishek himself said that he was not in the July 21 program. That is why only the Chief Minister’s picture will be there. Mamata’s picture was also in the Netaji Indoor meeting. The Chief Minister has repeatedly said that she is the last word of the organization. She will lead the party for another ten years.”

Did the leader want to emphasize once again that Mamata alone has the final say in the party?

The Trinamool Congress has decided that only the image of party supremo Mamata Banerjee will feature on all official posters for the July 21 Martyrs’ Day rally, as national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee has opted out, stating he wasn’t part of the original movement in 1993.

The decision of Banerjee, Mamata’s nephew and widely regarded as the party’s second-in-command, to opt out of the poster has raised eyebrows across political circles, sparking speculation about internal party dynamics.

Senior TMC MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay confirmed the move on Saturday following a meeting held at the party’s Bhabanipur office here. “The poster for the July 21 rally contains only Mamata Banerjee’s photograph. Abhishek Banerjee himself said his photo should not be there as he was not part of the original movement in 1993,” Bandyopadhyay, the party’s leader in Lok Sabha, told reporters.

According to party leaders, Banerjee entered politics as a member of the TMC in 2011 and was eventually made the president of Trinamool Yuva, which was later merged with Trinamool Youth Congress.

The announcement comes amid a history of intra-party debates over the prominence of leaders in posters. The controversy dates back to November 2023 when only Mamata’s image featured in the background of a major rally at Netaji Indoor Stadium. At that time, party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh had publicly questioned the omission of Abhishek’s image, stirring internal debates.

Earlier this year, the issue flared up again over a TMC calendar distributed among various party offices. Abhishek’s image was subsequently omitted from major party events, including the February rally at Netaji Indoor Stadium.

“This time, we aim for a record-breaking turnout. We will set a benchmark for how a single party can organise such a massive rally in the heart of a city,” Bandyopadhyay said, adding that party leaders, including state president Subrata Bakshi, have issued clear directives to district units to ensure maximum mobilisation.

The July 21 ‘Martyrs Day’ rally is observed annually by TMC to commemorate the killing of 13 people in police firing in 1993, when Mamata Banerjee, then a Youth Congress leader, had launched a march to the secretariat, demanding that voters’ card be made the sole document to allow people to exercise their franchise.

Amid preparations for the rally, another political subplot unfolded on Saturday as two heavyweight leaders from Birbhum, Anubrata Mondal and Kajal Sheikh, were asked to attend a closed-door meeting with top TMC leaders. Both leaders have been embroiled in a factional feud in the politically volatile Birbhum district. While Kajal Sheikh arrived earlier, Anubrata — popularly known as ‘Kesto’ — joined the meeting shortly before 1 PM.

Politics, West Bengal

Political Tensions Escalate in West Bengal After Maheshtala Violence; BJP Leaders Detained During Protest

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews  | Kolkata | June 13, 2025 : Fresh political unrest has erupted in West Bengal following communal clashes in Maheshtala, South 24 Parganas, where allegations surfaced of vandalism at a local temple and an adjacent Tulsi platform. The incident has triggered strong reactions from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), whose top leaders were detained by police while attempting to protest near Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s residence in Kalighat on Thursday.

According to reports, BJP’s West Bengal unit president and Union Minister of State Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, General Secretary Jagannath Chatterjee, Purulia MP Jyotirmoy Mahato, and other party workers were intercepted en route to Maheshtala by the Kolkata Police. The group was later detained in Kalighat during a demonstration outside the CM’s residence. They were released hours later.

In a post on social media platform X, Dr. Majumdar criticised the police, writing, “Just yesterday, the same West Bengal Police were forced to wave white cloths in surrender before radical elements in Rabindranagar — spineless, helpless, and humiliated. And today, suddenly, they appear as warriors — zealously following Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s orders with blind obedience.”

Majumdar further alleged that “radical fundamentalists run amok” in the state, and accused the administration of suppressing dissent through police action. He wrote that BJP leaders and karyakartas were “shamelessly arrested — a naked display of administrative tyranny.”

The BJP’s protest was in response to incidents that occurred a day earlier in Maheshtala, where clashes reportedly resulted in the vandalism of a Shiva temple, damage to vehicles, and injuries to police personnel. BJP leaders claimed the violence was targeted and communal in nature, and demanded the immediate reconstruction of the Tulsi stage near the Rabindranagar police station.

Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari also met with Governor C.V. Ananda Bose at Raj Bhavan to brief him on the situation. In a post on X, Adhikari alleged that police deliberately failed to contain the violence for fear of political backlash. “Instead, they stood by as miscreants attacked Hindus, vandalised a Shiva temple, torched bikes and vehicles, and pelted stones under the nose of Rabindranagar Police Station,” he wrote.

Adhikari dismissed the official description of the violence as a local dispute over illegal construction and called the incident a continuation of communal unrest that has plagued areas like Malda and Murshidabad in recent months. “Where is the accountability for your failure?” he asked.

The BJP claimed that the Chief Minister has remained silent on the issue, accusing her of appeasement politics and neglecting the safety of the Hindu community. Attempts to reinstall a symbolic Tulsi Manch by BJP workers were reportedly blocked by police, leading to further political friction.

Meanwhile, Kolkata Police confirmed that 40 people had been arrested in connection with the Maheshtala incident. Authorities have filed three separate cases under relevant legal provisions and said that they are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation.

In a statement on X, West Bengal Police urged political leaders to refrain from visiting the violence-hit zones, stating, “The situation is under control. Any provocative action may disrupt peace and order.”

As political tensions rise, Maheshtala remains under increased security surveillance. The broader implications of the violence and the state’s response continue to fuel debate between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition BJP, highlighting the deepening polarisation in Bengal’s political landscape.

International, Northeast

Suspected Illegal Immigrants Detained on Assam-Meghalaya Border; Deportation Drives Continue Nationwide

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | June 13, 2025 | Kolkata : Eleven individuals suspected of being Bangladeshi nationals were detained by police in the Kalainchara area on the Assam-Meghalaya border after local residents reported unfamiliar persons in the vicinity. The incident occurred on the morning of June 11, when residents noticed the group moving along a local road and promptly alerted authorities.

Responding to the call, Sub-Inspector Nakibuzzaman Laskar from Gumra Investigation Centre reached the scene and detained the individuals. They were later taken to Silchar Sadar Police Station for questioning. Preliminary investigations suggest that the group may have entered Indian territory irregularly from Bangladesh, allegedly with the assistance of brokers. Reports indicate that they had been working in various parts of India for several months and were attempting to return to Bangladesh when apprehended.

This incident comes amid intensified efforts by Indian authorities to identify and deport individuals deemed to be residing illegally in the country. According to official sources, since early May, the state of Assam has repatriated over 300 people to Bangladesh out of approximately 30,000 declared as foreigners by various tribunals over the years. These actions are part of a broader national campaign that began on May 7, involving detentions across several states including Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Assam, and Rajasthan.

The campaign has led to the transportation of detainees to border states such as Assam, Tripura, and Meghalaya. Once there, individuals are transferred to the Border Security Force (BSF) for repatriation procedures. Authorities have cited national security concerns, including recent events in Kashmir, as a key motivator behind the renewed urgency.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has stated that nearly 1,000 individuals believed to be from Bangladesh have been detained in recent months. He confirmed that 303 had been repatriated, and that the state is operating in alignment with directives issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

A key component of the ongoing drive is the Foreigners Identification Portal, a centralised biometric and demographic database that facilitates coordination between state governments, the Ministry of External Affairs, and law enforcement agencies. The portal, initially developed in 2018 to monitor refugee flows from Myanmar, has since been expanded to support the identification and verification of undocumented foreign nationals.

All applicants for essential documents, such as Aadhaar cards, ration cards, and voter IDs, are now being cross-verified against this database. Authorities have been directed to complete status verification of suspected undocumented individuals within 30 days.

The campaign has also extended to include persons with court-granted temporary protection from deportation. In certain instances, individuals who had received stays from the Supreme Court or High Courts have reportedly been repatriated, though some have been readmitted to India through diplomatic channels. State officials have cited the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling upholding Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, as a legal basis for expediting action without waiting for Foreigners Tribunal proceedings.

Section 6A applies specifically to those who entered Assam between 1966 and 1971, allowing them to apply for citizenship. However, this provision remains contentious among local communities concerned about demographic and resource pressures.

The Foreigners Tribunals, tasked with determining the citizenship status of suspected individuals, have faced scrutiny for procedural shortcomings. In one widely discussed case, a tribunal erroneously declared a lifelong Indian resident a foreigner, leading to a prolonged legal battle that was only resolved posthumously by the Supreme Court, which called the decision a serious miscarriage of justice.

Bangladesh has formally raised concerns over the deportation measures. On May 8, a diplomatic protest was lodged with India, and officials in Dhaka have indicated that further notes are being prepared. Bangladesh’s foreign affairs adviser, Md Touhid Hossain, emphasized the need for legal and diplomatic resolution, stating that while his country is monitoring the developments, unilateral actions are not sustainable.

Indian authorities maintain that verification delays from Dhaka have slowed the deportation of more than 2,300 individuals awaiting repatriation, some of whom have been in custody since 2020.

In addition to Assam, detentions have been reported in other regions. In Delhi alone, 66 suspected undocumented individuals were detained recently, according to official sources quoted by PTI.

As the national campaign continues, observers and human rights groups have urged the Indian government to ensure that all actions comply with constitutional protections, due process, and international humanitarian norms.

West Bengal

Preserving a Sacred Legacy: Bhaktivedanta Research Center Digitizes Rare Gaudiya Manuscripts in Vrindavan

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | Kolkata | June 12, 2025 : In a landmark effort to preserve India’s spiritual and literary legacy, the Bhaktivedanta Research Center (BRC) has successfully completed the digitization of a historically significant collection of manuscripts maintained at the Shri Raghunath Bhatt Goswami Peeth in Vrindavan. The manuscripts, curated by Sri Padmanabha Goswami—a 14th-generation descendant of Gopal Bhatta Goswami, a principal disciple of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu—represent a rare and irreplaceable archive of Gaudiya Vaishnava literature and philosophy.

This initiative has digitized over 800 manuscripts, many of them fragile, handwritten texts that have been preserved for centuries by the custodians of the Peeth. The collection includes theological treatises, classical Sanskrit commentaries, and works on Vedanta, Nyaya, and Gaudiya Vaishnava theology. Most texts are in Sanskrit and Bengali, with several manuscripts attributed to Pandit Sarvabhauma Madhusudan Goswami—an eminent scholar of Nyaya and Sanskrit grammar, and a close associate of Bhaktivinoda Thakur, Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati, and Sri Madan Mohan Malviya.

Although the Peeth is not widely known to the general public, it is deeply revered among senior devotees who are familiar with its historical and spiritual importance. The temple traces its lineage to Srila Raghunath Bhatt Goswami, one of the six Goswamis of Vrindavan, and his disciple Srila Gadadhar Bhatt Goswami.

The preservation effort began when Harsharani Devi Dasi, a devotee based in Delhi and disciple of Badrinarayana Swami, brought attention to the hidden manuscript archive during one of her regular visits to Vrindavan. Recognizing the urgency of preserving the collection, Badrinarayana Swami mobilized resources to initiate the digitization process. The project officially commenced on April 24, 2024, with BRC providing professional-grade scanning equipment, a dedicated laptop, and personnel to carry out the work on-site.

Led by BRC researcher Sourish Das and supported by Raju Mistry, the digitization concluded in mid-2025. The initiative reflects BRC’s broader mission of safeguarding India’s manuscript heritage through partnerships with scholars, spiritual institutions, and academic bodies across the country.

“This seva is more than a preservation effort—it is a form of devotion. Scriptural preservation is like an addiction; it becomes the very heartbeat of life,” remarked Sri Padmanabha Goswami, who also serves as a senior sevait of the historic Radha Raman Temple in Vrindavan.

Dr. Sumanta Rudra, Academic Dean at BRC, emphasized the long-term academic significance of the project. “These manuscripts are an invaluable source for researchers across disciplines—from theology and linguistics to philosophy and history,” he said.

International scholars have also acknowledged the importance of the work. Dr. Ferdinando Sardella of Stockholm University described the archive as “a rare, unbroken lineage of intellectual and theological writing.”

In the next phase of the initiative, BRC and the Shri Raghunath Bhatt Goswami Peeth plan to make the digital archive accessible to scholars, spiritual seekers, and academic institutions worldwide. A physical museum is also in the works to exhibit the manuscripts and related sacred texts, ensuring that this precious legacy continues to educate and inspire future generations.

BRC remains committed to the digitization and democratization of India’s cultural treasures, advancing the mission to preserve and share the nation’s rich spiritual and literary traditions with the world.

Politics, West Bengal

Subhendu Adhikari Alleges Communal Unrest in Maheshtala, Urges Immediate Police Action

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aby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, June 11, 2025 : Speaking to the media outside the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on Wednesday afternoon, senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition Subhendu Adhikari made serious allegations regarding law and order in Maheshtala’s Ward No. 7, specifically in the Rabindranagar police station area. He claimed that around 2,000 individuals, whom he referred to as “jihadis,” were involved in targeted vandalism of Hindu homes and temples.


Adhikari alleged that places of worship and household religious structures, such as Tulsi Manchas, were being desecrated, drawing parallels to the situation in Mothabari despite Maheshtala being just 10 kilometers from central Kolkata. He showed a video clip on his mobile phone as purported evidence and issued a stern ultimatum to Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma, demanding action within one hour. Failing that, he threatened to personally visit the area with BJP MLAs.

He further criticized the local police for inaction, accusing them of following what he described as the “Diamond Harbour model”—a term he has previously used to imply political interference in policing. Adhikari also demanded the deployment of central forces in the area, citing a Calcutta High Court order that permits such measures in the event of unrest up to July 31.

Raising concerns over press freedom, Adhikari claimed that media personnel were being prevented from entering the affected zone and alleged that the local Hindu population was suffering severe hardship. He also used provocative language, referring to the current state government as resembling a “Muslim League government,” while reiterating his call for immediate intervention by law enforcement agencies.

The remarks have intensified the political discourse in the state, and the situation in Maheshtala is likely to draw attention from both administrative and judicial authorities. However, as of this report, there has been no official response from the Kolkata Police or the state government regarding the claims made.
West Bengal

State Halts Prepaid Smart Meters; Power Minister Confirms Postpaid Transition Amid Protests

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Baby Chakravarta, KalimNews, Kolkata, June 11, 2025 : Amid growing public unrest over inflated electricity bills linked to smart meters, West Bengal Power Minister Arup Biswas addressed the issue in the state assembly on Wednesday, offering clarity on the government’s stance. He stated that while smart meters had already been installed in several rural households, the state has now officially stopped further installation.

The controversy stems from consumer complaints, with many alleging that their monthly electricity bills have unexpectedly surged to as high as ₹12,000. This has sparked widespread protests and calls for government intervention. On Tuesday, the state government responded by declaring that no new smart meters would be installed.

Taking the issue further in the assembly, Minister Arup Biswas criticized the central government, stating that the installation of smart meters was “imposed by force.” However, he assured the house that West Bengal had discontinued the rollout and is taking steps to protect consumers.

Importantly, for households where smart meters have already been installed, the minister clarified that these meters will now operate as standard postpaid meters instead of the prepaid system initially implemented. This transition will take effect three months after the date of each meter’s installation.

The decision marks a significant policy shift amid increasing pressure from consumers and opposition parties, offering some relief to affected households as the state moves to stabilize the billing system and restore public trust.

Economy, West Bengal

State Government Suspends Installation of Smart Meters Amid Rising Complaints of High Bills and Forced Installations

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Baby Chakraborty | KalimNews | June 11, 2025 | Kolkata  : The state has been embroiled in controversy over the installation of smart meters in recent days. There have been widespread allegations that smart meters are being forcibly installed in homes, leading to complaints about excessive electricity bills. In response to these concerns, the State Electricity Department has announced a temporary halt to the installation of smart meters in residential properties.


According to a notice issued by the department, smart meters were being installed on an experimental basis in several households. However, following a surge in complaints regarding inflated bills and the perceived coercion in the installation process, the government has decided to suspend further installations for the time being. This move comes after significant protests from residents, particularly from the Rabindranagar Kalitala area in Hooghly, where locals voiced their concerns at the local Electricity Department office.

Residents have accused the authorities of forcibly installing the meters and noted a significant increase in their electricity bills after the installation. One such case involved a resident of Bandel in Hooghly, who claimed that after the installation of a smart meter, his bill for the month skyrocketed to ₹12,000—far higher than usual. Similar complaints from other consumers have prompted the state government to take action.

The issue came to the forefront when complaints from Chapadali intersection in Barasat were escalated to the Chief Minister’s office. After receiving these grievances, the Chief Minister ordered the Electricity Department to issue a formal notification halting the installation of smart meters in residential areas.

Several opposition parties have also raised strong objections to the smart meter installation. The Communist Party of India (Marxist), or CPI(M), has accused the state government of attempting to privatize electricity services by forcing prepaid meters on the public. The opposition has argued that the prepaid system could leave consumers without electricity if they run out of balance, even in the middle of the night, causing severe disruption. Farmers, in particular, were highlighted as the most vulnerable group to suffer from such interruptions.

While the state’s power minister, Arup Biswas, had earlier dismissed these concerns, the recent notification from the government has confirmed the suspension of smart meter installations in residential properties, at least for now. The new decision, however, does not affect the installation of smart meters in government or commercial establishments.

The controversy has sparked widespread protests across the state, with opposition parties demanding further investigation into the matter and questioning the fairness of the new system. As the situation unfolds, the future of smart meters in residential homes remains uncertain, with public sentiment largely against the move.
Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Gears Up for July 21 Martyrs’ Day Amid Upcoming Assembly Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, June 9, 2025, Kolkata: With West Bengal heading toward Assembly elections next year, the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has begun early preparations for its annual July 21 Martyrs’ Day event. Recognized as a key moment on the party’s political calendar, this year’s observance carries added weight as it sets the stage for what could become the opening of a high-stakes electoral campaign.

Organized primarily by the student and youth wings of the party in consultation with senior leaders, Martyrs’ Day commemorates the death of 13 individuals during a political rally on July 21, 1993. Preparations this year have commenced earlier than usual. A key preparatory meeting is scheduled at the party’s Bhabanipur office next week, with invitations already extended to district presidents, chairpersons, and the core committees from Kolkata North and Birbhum organizational districts.

Every year, the program draws significant attention from across the state. Held at Dharmatala Square in Kolkata, the central gathering typically features prominent student and youth leaders, along with party supremo Mamata Banerjee and All India General Secretary and MP Abhishek Banerjee. The occasion is marked by political messages, organizational mobilization, and reaffirmation of the party’s political vision.

The origin of Martyrs’ Day dates back to July 21, 1993, when a protest march led by Mamata Banerjee—then a Youth Congress leader—demanded the mandatory use of photo voter ID cards in elections. The rally, organized against the backdrop of political unrest and internal conflict within the Congress party, was directed toward the Writers’ Building, the administrative headquarters of the West Bengal government. It culminated in a violent confrontation with law enforcement, resulting in the deaths of 13 individuals following police firing. The event had a profound impact on the political landscape of the state and played a crucial role in shaping Banerjee’s subsequent political trajectory.

Over the years, the narrative surrounding the 1993 incident has remained contentious. The official justification for the protest was electoral reform—specifically the implementation of voter ID cards, which falls under the purview of the Election Commission of India, not the state government. However, analysts and critics have long questioned the true intent of the rally, suggesting it may have stemmed more from intra-party rivalries within the Congress than from democratic demands.

Eyewitness accounts and later investigations revealed that parts of the crowd engaged in violence, vandalism, and arson. Security personnel were severely injured, and weapons including loaded pipe guns and bombs were recovered from the scene. Despite the widespread disruption and ensuing casualties, no senior leaders were ultimately held accountable after multiple inquiries. A commission led by retired Justice Sushanta Chatterjee—set up by the Trinamool Congress government after assuming power in 2011—did not attribute direct responsibility to the leadership of the then Left Front government or the police. Its report, submitted in 2014, controversially concluded that at least one of the deceased died from cirrhosis of the liver, not police action.

The political fallout from the incident was substantial. Mamata Banerjee, who had briefly held a ministerial role in the P.V. Narasimha Rao-led central government, went on to form the All India Trinamool Congress after distancing herself from the Congress party. Over time, July 21 became a symbolic cornerstone of her political movement. Every year since, the event has been commemorated as Martyrs’ Day, serving both as a remembrance and a rallying cry for party workers.

However, the legacy of the day continues to evoke debate. While the Trinamool Congress portrays the 13 deceased individuals as martyrs of a democratic cause, others contest this characterization due to the violence associated with the protest. Questions linger about the planning, intent, and aftermath of the demonstration. The fact that Manish Gupta, the then Home Secretary who authorized the police firing, later joined the Trinamool Congress and became a cabinet minister, adds another complex layer to the historical narrative.

As July 21, 2025, approaches, the Trinamool Congress seeks not only to honor the memory of the 1993 protest but also to galvanize its youth base and reaffirm its political direction in anticipation of the upcoming Assembly elections. With attention again turning to Dharmatala, the event is expected to serve as both a tribute and a strategic political platform in the shifting landscape of West Bengal politics.

Politics, West Bengal

Kunal Ghosh Summoned by Calcutta High Court in Contempt Case, Must Appear on June 16

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, June 8, 2025: The Calcutta High Court has directed Trinamool Congress state general secretary Kunal Ghosh to appear in person before a specially constituted three-judge bench on June 16 at 12:30 p.m. in connection with a contempt of court case arising from a controversial protest near the court premises.

The notice, served through Narkeldanga Police Station, clearly states that Ghosh must remain present in court until permitted to leave and must explain why punitive action, including imprisonment, should not be initiated against him. Legal experts have noted that failure to appear or provide a satisfactory explanation could result in immediate imprisonment from the courtroom, should the court find sufficient grounds under contempt laws.

The contempt proceedings stem from a protest held in April by a group of job aspirants for upper-primary teaching positions. The demonstrators staged their protest outside the chamber of CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP and senior advocate Bikas Ranjan Bhattacharya, accusing him of legal actions that allegedly led to the cancellation of several school job appointments in West Bengal. During the protest, derogatory remarks were reportedly made against Justice Biswajit Basu, whose judicial observations in related cases had drawn public attention.

Taking suo motu cognisance of the matter, Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam of the Calcutta High Court ordered the Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma to investigate the incident and identify the individuals involved. A contempt case was subsequently initiated, and a special bench comprising Justices Arijit Banerjee, Sabyasachi Bhattacharya, and Rajarshi Bharadwaj was constituted to hear it.

Ghosh, along with six other individuals, had been directed to file reply affidavits. However, none of them complied within the stipulated timeframe, prompting the court to issue contempt rules against all seven. Ghosh has now officially received the rule notice.

Ghosh’s legal counsel, Biswaroop Bhattacharya and Ayan Chakraborty, have stated that their client was not present during the protest in question. They added that while their affidavit is ready, the recent submission of a police report compelled them to delay filing it, as they wish to reference the report in their submission.

This case adds to a growing list of contempt matters being closely monitored by the judiciary. Recently, the Calcutta High Court ordered a four-day jail term for an advocate for making slanderous remarks against a judge—setting a precedent that highlights the court’s zero-tolerance approach to acts undermining judicial dignity.

As of now, the court awaits Kunal Ghosh’s appearance and explanation on June 16, which could prove pivotal in determining the next legal course of action.

West Bengal

BJP Set to Begin National President Selection Process; State-Level Reshuffle Likely First

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Delhi, June 8, 2025: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is preparing to initiate the formal process of selecting its next national president, with internal discussions intensifying in recent weeks. While the party has yet to make an official announcement, sources suggest that the process could formally begin as early as mid-June.

According to party insiders, organizational elections—a constitutional prerequisite for electing the national president—have been completed in most states. The announcement of 70 new district presidents in Uttar Pradesh has further fueled speculation that the party is moving closer to finalizing its top leadership post. The process had briefly stalled following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, but has since regained momentum.

Ahead of the national appointment, the BJP is likely to carry out a major reshuffle in key state units. Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are among the states expected to see new leadership at the state level.

In Uttar Pradesh, internal demands for greater representation from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) have led to reconsideration of the candidate profile. While a Brahmin leader was earlier seen as a likely pick, the current sentiment within the party leans toward appointing an OBC leader to strengthen the party’s hold on that crucial vote bank.

In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP currently has an OBC Chief Minister and a Brahmin state president. This time, the leadership is exploring the possibility of appointing an Adivasi (tribal) leader as state president to enhance representation and outreach among tribal communities.

In Uttarakhand, sources indicate that a Brahmin leader is leading the race for the state unit chief post, though an official decision has not yet been made.

Meanwhile, attention is also focused on the race for the national president. Three prominent leaders are reportedly under consideration:

  • Dharmendra Pradhan, an OBC leader from Odisha and current Union Minister, is known for his strong organizational skills and close ties with the central leadership.

  • Shivraj Singh Chouhan, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and current Union Minister, is widely regarded as a mass leader with deep grassroots connections.

  • Manohar Lal Khattar, former Chief Minister of Haryana who recently joined the Union Cabinet, brings considerable administrative experience and is seen as a figure of continuity.

Party sources indicate that the final choice will take into account a combination of factors—organizational experience, regional representation, and social balance—to ensure broader acceptability across the party and electorate.

The current national president, JP Nadda, has been in office since January 2020. His term was extended to guide the party through the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. With that phase now completed, the leadership transition is under active consideration. It remains unclear whether Nadda will seek a second full term or whether the party will opt for a new face to lead it into the next phase.

A central election committee will soon be constituted to oversee the national election process, including nominations, verification, and voting if required.

Meanwhile, opposition parties including the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party are closely observing these internal developments. The BJP’s choice of president is expected to significantly influence its campaign strategy for upcoming state elections in 2026 and the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

West Bengal

West Bengal Set to Transfer 356 Acres to BSF for Border Fencing Amid Infiltration Concerns

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, June 7, 2025: Amid rising concerns over security along the India-Bangladesh border, the West Bengal government has initiated the process to hand over 356 acres of land to the Border Security Force (BSF) for the installation of barbed wire fencing in unfenced areas. This move comes after a prolonged delay and increasing pressure from the Centre to expedite the land transfer essential for national security.

So far, the Union government has sanctioned funds for the acquisition of 680 acres of land across various border districts of West Bengal. Of this, 324 acres have already been handed over to the BSF. The remaining 356 acres had been stuck in administrative complications, but recent developments suggest a breakthrough. Officials at Nabanna—the state secretariat—confirmed that instructions have now been issued to speed up the land acquisition process and facilitate immediate transfer to the border security agency.

The breakthrough follows a high-level meeting held last Sunday between senior state government officials and the Union Home Secretary. Sources suggest that this meeting helped iron out differences and led to a mutual agreement. District Magistrates of key border districts including Malda, Murshidabad, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Nadia, and Cooch Behar have been instructed to acquire the required land from private landowners on a priority basis. Once completed, the land will be formally handed over to the BSF to begin fencing operations.

The decision is being implemented on a war-footing, with administrative heads of the concerned districts directed to avoid any further delays. Senior officials from the state government confirmed that this is being treated as a top-priority issue, considering the increasing incidents of illegal infiltration through the unfenced segments of the border.

The urgency also stems from intelligence inputs received by both central and state agencies about attempts by extremist groups based in Bangladesh—including Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), Hizb-ut-Tahrir (HUT), and Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT)—to infiltrate operatives into West Bengal. The objective of such infiltration, officials say, is to establish sleeper cells in bordering districts.

The BSF has long flagged these gaps in border security, citing them as significant vulnerabilities exploited for illegal crossings, smuggling, and other transnational crimes. With the land handover process now underway, security agencies are hopeful that fencing operations can be completed swiftly, strengthening the state’s border infrastructure and minimizing the risks posed by unfenced stretches.

Politics, West Bengal

Distribution of Jagannath Temple Offerings Sparks Political Debate Ahead of 2026 Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, June 8, 2025, Kolkata: The newly inaugurated Jagannath Temple in Digha has emerged as a point of political contention in West Bengal ahead of the 2026 elections. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee recently announced that offerings—referred to as “prasad”—from the Digha temple would be distributed to households across the state starting June 17. The initiative is being carried out through the state’s ‘Duare Ration’ (door-to-door ration) scheme, with arrangements being coordinated by Block Development Officers (BDOs) and Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs). Sweet shops in each locality have been contacted to prepare the boxes, which will include traditional Bengali sweets like pera and gaja, along with images of the temple.

This announcement has triggered a sharp reaction from Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, who has questioned the authenticity of the offerings being described as prasad. Speaking to the media on Friday, Adhikari alleged that the state government is misrepresenting locally sourced sweets as temple prasad, thereby hurting the sentiments of Hindu devotees. He stated that although Rs 20 per box has been allocated for the initiative, the content does not originate from the temple, calling it “demeaning to Hindu dharma.” He urged people to treat the contents as ordinary sweets and not as religious offerings.

In response to the criticism, the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has defended the initiative. State Information and Culture Minister Indranil Sen refuted Adhikari’s claims, asserting that the prasad will indeed be sourced from the Jagannath Temple and distributed with proper religious consideration. Sen emphasized that the program is intended to allow access to temple offerings for those unable to travel to Digha. He accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of politicizing a community outreach effort and undermining the Chief Minister’s inclusive development initiatives, including her contributions to other religious sites like Dakshineswar, Kalighat, and Kankalitala.

Sen further claimed that the BJP’s criticism is a deliberate attempt to downplay the state government’s work. He reiterated that the Chief Minister’s intention was to provide a symbolic religious connection to all households, especially those who cannot personally visit the temple.

The Jagannath Temple in Digha, located in the Purba Medinipur district, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in May 2025. The temple, a significant new religious site in Bengal, has quickly become a focal point in the evolving political narrative of the state.

West Bengal

Calcutta High Court Admits Pleas Challenging WBSSC Recruitment Notification and State’s Stipend Scheme

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  Kolkata, June 4, 2025 : The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday admitted multiple petitions challenging the latest notification issued by the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) regarding recruitment for teaching and non-teaching posts in state-run and government-aided schools. In a separate case, the state government’s recently announced monthly stipend scheme for Group-C and Group-D staff has also been contested before the same court. Both matters are expected to be heard on June 5.

The single-judge vacation bench of Justice Raja Basu Chowdhury admitted the petition related to the recruitment notification. The challenge comes in the wake of the Supreme Court’s April 3 verdict, which cancelled 25,753 appointments made in 2016, citing irregularities in the recruitment process. Following this decision, teachers affected by the ruling have been protesting statewide.

Petitioners argue that the latest recruitment notification introduces significant changes to the weightage system, including 10 marks each for past teaching experience and lecture demonstrations. They allege that these changes unfairly advantage previously appointed candidates and disadvantage fresh applicants.

One protesting teacher commented, “We are not ready to sit for examinations again after teaching for so many years. There are several lacunae in the notification and weightage.”

Senior advocate and Rajya Sabha MP Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya alleged that the notification lacked transparency and could potentially pave the way for another scam. Advocate Sudipta Dasgupta claimed that although all are technically allowed to sit for the examination, the process excludes both disqualified and fresh candidates in practice. He asserted that the 10-mark allocation for experienced candidates appears deliberately biased.

In a separate petition, Lubana Parveen, one of the nearly 26,000 teachers whose appointments were cancelled by the Supreme Court, challenged the same notification before Justice Partha Sarathi Chatterjee. She argued that the notification is in violation of the apex court’s directive, which required the SSC to issue a new recruitment process but did not authorise the creation of an entirely new rule structure.

According to advocate Firdous Shamim, the modified recruitment framework now allots 10 marks for teaching experience, effectively placing dismissed candidates in a 90-mark exam format while fresh applicants face a 100-mark test. Shamim contended that the 2025 recruitment should follow the rules used in 2016, which assigned 35 marks for academic qualifications, 55 for the written test, and 10 for interviews.

Under the 2025 structure, however, academic qualifications carry only 10 marks, written tests 60, and interviews and lecture demonstrations 10 marks each. Shamim argued that these adjustments create a disadvantage for candidates without prior teaching experience. He also highlighted changes to the shortlisting process for interviews, alleging that the candidate-to-post ratio has shifted from 1:1.4 to 1:1.6, in further deviation from established norms.

The WBSSC had issued the latest recruitment notification on May 30, aiming to fill 35,726 vacancies by May 31, as per the Supreme Court’s directive. This includes 23,312 posts for classes 9-10 and 12,514 posts for classes 11-12 in secondary and higher secondary schools across West Bengal.

The Supreme Court, in its April judgment, declared the 2016 recruitment panel “tainted,” resulting in the termination of over 25,000 jobs. It later clarified that “untainted” candidates would continue to receive their salaries until December 2025, while 1,804 individuals were permanently barred from returning to service. The Court also instructed the state government and SSC to file affidavits by May 31 detailing the new recruitment procedure.

Lubana Parveen’s petition further claims that the recent notification and the appointment of 3,000 individuals violates court instructions regarding age exemptions, experience weightage, and examination structure. She alleges that the new notification alters the balance of marks in a way that reduces the weightage for academic qualifications while inflating written test scores, further disadvantaging certain candidates.

With multiple petitions now admitted, and serious allegations of non-compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives raised, the Calcutta High Court is poised to examine the legality and fairness of the state’s current recruitment and stipend policies. The next hearing is scheduled for June 5.

Politics, West Bengal

TMC MLA Humayun Kabir Criticizes Police, Sparks Controversy, Later Backtracks

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Murshidabad, June 3, 2025 :  Humayun Kabir, a prominent Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislator from Bharatpur in West Bengal, has found himself embroiled in controversy after making inflammatory remarks against the police during a public meeting in Berhampore on Sunday. Kabir’s comments, which included threats to “discipline” certain police stations, have sparked outrage, particularly among the opposition and citizens, further intensifying the already volatile political climate in the state.


In a video that quickly went viral, Kabir was heard accusing police stations in Murshidabad, including Shamshergunj, Lalgola, Barwan, and Bharatpur, of mistreating and torturing the people. Speaking to a crowd, Kabir said, “If I were in the opposition, I wouldn’t need more than 24 hours to make these police stations fall in line. But now, my hands are tied as I am part of the ruling side. That is why the police are acting with audacity, harassing innocent citizens.”

Kabir’s comments went a step further as he reassured his supporters, saying, “Don’t be afraid of the police. If they harass you or your family, if they pick you up in the dead of night, let me know. I am with you, and I will stand by you.” This provocative speech drew immediate criticism, especially as it echoed the controversial rhetoric of other TMC leaders, including Anubrata Mondal and Bikramjit Shaw, who have recently made similar inflammatory remarks.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was quick to seize on the issue, with BJP leader Shankar Ghosh accusing the TMC of fostering a “negative political culture.” Ghosh stated, “Even after being in power, the TMC has not been able to change its negative mentality. Such comments from its leaders are not surprising. They follow the same path of aggression, as demonstrated by Anubrata Mondal. Naturally, the party leader’s words reflect the same mindset.”

Kabir’s remarks come at a time when the TMC is already facing significant internal and external scrutiny. His speech about police “discipline” follows a series of controversial comments made by other high-profile TMC figures, including Anubrata Mondal, who has been involved in a long-standing feud with the police in his district of Birbhum.

However, just a day after his comments sparked a public outcry, Kabir backtracked, softening his stance. On Monday, he issued a statement clarifying that he was withdrawing his remarks. “I have had a long discussion with the Superintendent of Police (Murshidabad), Kumar Sunny Raj, and he assured me that proper action will be taken. I am now withdrawing my remarks and wish to assure everyone that I stand by the law and respect the police,” Kabir said.

This sudden change in position left many questioning the TMC leader’s initial outburst and whether it was a calculated move to stir public sentiment or a genuine expression of frustration. Kabir’s backtracking also raises questions about the internal dynamics within the TMC, as it closely follows the controversy surrounding other party leaders’ recent verbal attacks on police officers.

The incident has ignited a broader conversation about the relationship between the TMC and law enforcement in West Bengal, particularly as the party grapples with the fallout from controversial statements made by its leaders. While Kabir has attempted to calm the situation by withdrawing his remarks, the episode has added fuel to an already intense political fire, with critics accusing the TMC of fostering an atmosphere of lawlessness and intimidation.

As the situation continues to unfold, all eyes will be on whether the TMC leadership takes further steps to address the growing tension between party officials and law enforcement, or whether the cycle of controversial rhetoric will continue to escalate.
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