Category Archives: West Bengal

Politics, West Bengal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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


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

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

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

Chandranath Ghosh: The Silent Traffic Guardian of Gurap”

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


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

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

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

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

Rituparna Sengupta Responds to Political Offers Amid Rising Speculation

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


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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

Supreme Court Postpones RG Kar Case Hearing by a Week

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


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

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

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

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

Passengers Face Disruption as Metro Services Cancelled Due to Mechanical Glitch

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


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

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

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

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

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

Vishnu Idol from Post-Gupta Era Unearthed at Hooghly School

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


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

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


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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Religious Rhetoric Sparks Political Debate Ahead of Bengal Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 19, 2025, Kolkata: 

Bengal, long regarded as a bastion of non-communal harmony since independence, has witnessed a surge in divisive rhetoric in recent years. This polarization has seemingly intensified as political parties attempt to consolidate their vote banks ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in 2026.

Union Minister and BJP leader Sukanta Majumdar recently sparked controversy with remarks urging families to raise their children as “good Hindus” devoted to religion and to “keep a sharp weapon at home” to safeguard their culture. Majumdar’s statement has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, with many expressing concern over the communal undertones of his message.

Trinamool Congress seized the opportunity to counter the remarks. Bharatpur MLA Humayun Kabir strongly condemned Majumdar’s statement, questioning its appropriateness. Kabir asserted, “Sukanta Babu should not remain the Union Education Minister for even a moment. Are educated individuals expected to advocate keeping weapons at home?”

Observers note that the BJP has been using religious appeals as a key strategy, often highlighting issues tied to identity politics. Leader of Opposition Shuvendu Adhikari has also been vocal in addressing Hindu voters, intensifying the discourse. Critics argue that such rhetoric is being employed to polarize communities, raising questions about why political leaders are prioritizing messages of religious identity over calls for unity and humanity.

The rise in communal narratives underscores a growing concern over the erosion of Bengal’s secular fabric. Many are left asking why political discourse cannot shift toward fostering harmony and celebrating the common identity of being human.
West Bengal

Fatal Road Accident Sparks Protest in Asansol

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 19, 2025, Asansol: Asansol witnessed rising tension on Sunday as local residents of Kulti staged a protest by blocking the ISCO New Road. The demonstration followed the tragic death of a resident in a road accident involving a speeding truck.


According to eyewitness accounts, heavy trucks and dumpers have been operating recklessly in the area, posing a constant threat to the safety of commuters. Residents allege that such vehicles often move at high speeds, especially during the morning hours, creating hazardous conditions for those traveling on bicycles or motorcycles. The lack of adequate traffic control has reportedly led to frequent accidents in the locality.

Sunday’s fatality involved a person who was struck by a truck while commuting to work on a moped. This incident has intensified public frustration, with protesters demanding immediate intervention from traffic authorities. They have called for stringent measures to regulate vehicular movement during peak school and office hours to prevent further tragedies.

The residents insist that traffic enforcement should prioritize public safety to ensure such incidents do not recur. Local authorities have been urged to address the grievances promptly.
Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Reaffirms Leadership, Prioritizes Senior Leaders in Trinamool Amid Intra-Party Dynamics

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 17, 2025, Purba Medinipur : In a decisive statement that underscores her authority and vision for the future of the Trinamool Congress, Mamata Banerjee declared, “I am the Chairperson, and I will run the party for ten years.” The Trinamool leader conveyed this message during a phone call with party MLAs from Purba Medinipur after the Kanthi Cooperative Bank elections on Wednesday. This assertion carries significant political weight amid ongoing debates about generational shifts within the party.


The remarks echo Mamata’s earlier statements at the National Working Committee meeting held in Kalighat, where she emphasized her control over the party’s finances and decision-making. Special importance was accorded to senior leaders during the meeting, reinforcing her focus on experienced leadership. Reiterating her stance in an assembly meeting with MLAs, Mamata stated, “I and Bakshi da will take care of the party,” highlighting her reliance on trusted veterans like Subrata Bakshi.

Mamata’s statement gains prominence against the backdrop of the long-standing “new vs. old” factional dynamics within the Trinamool Congress. This internal tension, which surfaced prominently after the party’s third consecutive victory in the 2021 state elections, continued to resonate leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Speculations about generational change within the party were further fueled by comments from Trinamool All India General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, who advocated for an upper age limit in politics, suggesting a more active role for younger leaders.

However, Mamata Banerjee has consistently dismissed the notion of age being a barrier to effective leadership. “What is age? Is there an age in the human mind? Live like a Royal Bengal Tiger as long as you live,” she declared, signaling her intent to continue steering the party with vigor and determination.

Political analysts interpret Mamata’s recent remarks as a clear message to reaffirm her leadership and prioritize senior figures in maintaining the party’s organizational stability. This approach appears to balance the integration of new energy with the wisdom of experience, ensuring the party’s strategic coherence in an evolving political landscape.

As the Trinamool Congress navigates internal dynamics and prepares for upcoming challenges, Mamata Banerjee’s leadership and vision remain central to its trajectory. Her assertion of authority is seen as a move to unify the party under her guidance while addressing generational debates with pragmatism and resolve.
Politics, West Bengal

Calcutta High Court Expresses Displeasure Over Processions in Central Kolkata, Calls for Alternative Venues

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 17, 2025, Kolkata : Justice Tirthankar Ghosh of the Calcutta High Court has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the growing trend of meetings and processions in central Kolkata, which frequently result in severe traffic disruptions and hardships for the common people. Addressing a case concerning a protest procession related to the RG Kar Hospital tragedy, the court emphasized that in the future, such events must be held in alternative locations rather than in the city’s congested central areas.


Despite its dissatisfaction, the court granted conditional permission for the protest. The case stemmed from a petition seeking approval for a march from Wellington Square to Rani Rashmoni Avenue. The protest aimed to demand justice for the rape and murder of a female doctor whose mutilated body was discovered at RG Kar Hospital last August. Even after five months, the case remains unresolved, fueling public outrage and calls for accountability.

The petitioners revealed that their request for permission to hold the procession was denied by local police, prompting them to seek redress from the High Court. While granting permission, Justice Ghosh made it clear that such gatherings in central Kolkata would not be allowed in the future due to the disproportionate impact on traffic and public convenience. He urged authorities and organizers to identify alternative venues for demonstrations that minimize disruption to daily life.

This development highlights the growing tension between the public’s right to protest and the need to maintain civic order in Kolkata’s busiest districts. The court’s decision underscores the need for balanced solutions that respect both democratic freedoms and the practical challenges of urban life.
Politics, West Bengal

Young Trinamool Member Aparna Patra Gradually Recovers from Coma After Critical Cesarean Complications

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, January 17, 2025 : Aparna Patra, a 25-year-old Trinamool Congress member, remains under intensive care after falling into a coma following a cesarean section on January 6. Doctors at Ajanta Nursing Home, Chunchura, where she was admitted, revealed that 80% of her brain had been affected. Despite the critical condition, a dedicated medical team continues her treatment with faith in science and divine intervention.


Since Aparna’s hospitalization in the ICCU, the incident has drawn widespread concern and support. On January 7, MP Rachana Banerjee, MLA Tapan Dasgupta, and Chunchura MLA Asit Majumdar visited Ajanta Nursing Home to inquire about her condition and offer their prayers. Her family, friends, and party colleagues, along with villagers, have been collectively hoping for her swift recovery.

On January 11, MLA Asit Majumdar returned to the hospital, accompanied by Dr. Mihir Banerjee, a renowned physician from Hooghly district, to assess Aparna’s progress. The visit was also attended by Sugandha Gram Panchayat President Subrata Ghosh, Regional Trinamool Congress President Bidyut Sur, Aparna’s husband Totan Patra, and her family members.

Speaking to the media, Totan Patra expressed his gratitude to the medical team for their relentless efforts. He stated, “Aparna is showing signs of improvement, and I am praying to God that no one—friend or foe—ever faces such a tragedy.”

MLA Asit Majumdar echoed these sentiments, saying, “Aparna’s recovery is my deepest prayer. Her young child deserves to grow up with the love and care of their mother.” Regional Trinamool Congress President Bidyut Sur highlighted the exceptional care provided at Ajanta Nursing Home, saying, “This hospital has saved many lives. I commend the doctors and hope Aparna returns home soon, bringing joy to her family, especially her child.”

Dr. Mihir Banerjee, reflecting on the severity of Aparna’s condition upon admission, acknowledged that her gradual recovery is nothing short of a medical marvel. “Her case has been a testament to teamwork and dedication,” he noted. Supporting this view, the owner of Ajanta Nursing Home remarked that the institution prioritizes humanity over profit. “We are committed to serving people. Business comes later,” he said, adding a personal prayer for Aparna’s recovery.

As Aparna Patra fights for her life, her case has become a symbol of resilience, medical expertise, and the collective hope of a community bound by empathy and support.
Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Intervenes to Resolve Trinamool Conflict Over Cooperative Bank Elections

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 15, 2025, Kolkata: Amid escalating tensions within the Trinamool Congress over the upcoming elections for the Kanthi Cooperative Bank, party supremo Mamata Banerjee stepped in to enforce order and resolve internal conflicts. The issue has centered around disagreements over candidate selection for the bank’s board of directors, leading to sharp divisions among party leaders in the district.


The election, scheduled for January 31, will determine 15 directors from 30 nominees, with the elected directors subsequently choosing the chairman. Allegations have surfaced that the selection process has been skewed to favor individuals aligned with former minister and district president Akhil Giri. This has drawn opposition from leaders supporting Uttam Barik, resulting in heated disputes.

Despite efforts by Trinamool’s state president Subrata Bakshi, including multiple meetings, the rift persisted. In a significant development on Wednesday, Bakshi called Mamata Banerjee during a meeting with district leaders, including Akhil Giri and Uttam Barik. Over the phone, Mamata delivered a decisive directive, stating that the panel prepared by Subrata Bakshi was final and must be adhered to.

Mamata also instructed those attempting to form alternate panels to immediately withdraw their efforts. She underscored her authority in the matter, announcing that she would personally select the chairman and vice-chairman after January 28.

The conflict escalated earlier when Akhil Giri allegedly issued incendiary remarks warning against dissent within the party, further complicating attempts at reconciliation.

This intervention by Mamata Banerjee highlights her role as the ultimate arbiter in party disputes, particularly in sensitive matters like the Kanthi Cooperative Bank elections, which are seen as a barometer of local influence and organizational control. As January 31 approaches, all eyes will be on the cooperative bank polls and the Trinamool Congress’s ability to maintain unity amid internal strife.
West Bengal

Artists’ Exclusion from Trinamool Events Sparks Controversy Amid Mixed Party Signals

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 15, 2025, Kolkata : Speculation continues to grow in West Bengal over the exclusion of certain artists from events organized by Trinamool Congress leaders and ministers, particularly those associated with the RG Kar movement. On Wednesday, Trinamool All India General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee denied allegations of politically motivated exclusions, asserting that party leader Mamata Banerjee does not endorse such practices.


However, contrasting signals from within the party have fueled the controversy. Trinamool state general secretary Kunal Ghosh acknowledged that many artists who criticized the state government and the Chief Minister during the RG Kar movement have been deliberately excluded from invitations. “Mamata Banerjee is the supreme leader, and I will not hear her views secondhand,” Ghosh stated, defending decisions to avoid inviting artists who he claims insulted the government and its leaders.

The issue dates back to the RG Kar movement, during which a section of artists openly criticized Mamata Banerjee’s handling of the Abhaya incident, a move that invited sharp backlash from a segment of Trinamool supporters. Reports suggest that in the aftermath, some cultural figures faced cancellations of bookings for New Year events and were excluded from non-political gatherings such as winter carnivals organized by clubs and organizations.

Abhishek Banerjee has consistently opposed such exclusions, reaffirming his stance on Wednesday. Despite his statements, Ghosh justified the decision, citing the unsparing language used by some artists against Trinamool leaders and policies during the movement.

This internal discord highlights a deeper divide within the party regarding its approach to dissent. While Abhishek Banerjee reiterates the party’s commitment to inclusivity, actions on the ground suggest that sentiments of loyalty and retaliation remain potent in determining participation in Trinamool-affiliated events.

The controversy underscores a balancing act for Trinamool Congress, navigating its commitment to artistic and political neutrality while addressing the fallout from critical voices within the cultural community.
West Bengal

Building Collapse in Baghajatin Traps 150, Injures Several

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 15, 2025, Kolkata : A multi-storey building collapsed in the Vidyasagar Colony area of Baghajatin, near Kolkata, on Tuesday afternoon, triggering panic and chaos in the surrounding region. The incident resulted in two neighboring houses tilting under the pressure from the collapse, trapping around 150 people inside. Preliminary reports suggest that two to three people were injured in the disaster.


The building, located in Ward Number 99 of the Kolkata Municipality, had been showing signs of damage for some time. Local councilor Mitali Banerjee confirmed that cracks had been visible on the structure for a while, prompting the promoter to initiate repairs without informing the municipality. According to Banerjee, she had become aware of the situation about a week ago and had instructed the promoter to halt the repairs and meet with her. She further mentioned that construction work ceased temporarily, but due to her involvement in the Poush Parvan celebrations, no further follow-up was conducted. She also noted that the promoter had not met with her as requested.

Former Left councilor Debashis Mukherjee, who had served during Banerjee’s tenure, revealed that the building had been constructed during her time in office. He also pointed out that the construction of buildings taller than three floors was prohibited in the area, accusing the promoter of carrying out unplanned and unauthorized construction.

Locals reported that the building had been gradually leaning for some time before the collapse. The promoter had reportedly brought in experts to attempt to straighten the structure when the disaster struck.

Rescue teams have been deployed to search for trapped individuals and to assist those injured in the collapse. Local authorities have begun investigating the cause of the disaster, with concerns over the safety and regulation of buildings in the area intensifying.