Category Archives: West Bengal

National, Politics, West Bengal

BJP Sets Sights on Bengal, Trinamool Dismisses 2026 Prospects in Retort

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 10, 2025, Kolkata : Following its parting with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has now shifted its focus to West Bengal, gearing up for the 2026 elections. The Union Education Minister has openly stated that the BJP’s attention is firmly on Bengal this time, signaling their intent to make significant political inroads. However, the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the state remains resolutely unimpressed and has shown little interest in entertaining the BJP’s demands.


In a spirited counter to the BJP’s ambitions, Serampore Member of Parliament, Kalyan Banerjee, issued a firm rebuttal to the BJP’s claims of a political surge in the state. He emphasized that the BJP would not hold any substantial influence in Bengal come the 2026 elections. Banerjee remarked, “BJP will have no place in West Bengal, rest assured. They will not secure 30 seats in Bengal in 2026, and they will not be able to provide the opposition leader.”

The political rivalry between the BJP and TMC has escalated with each side taking jabs at the other. The BJP’s strategy to challenge the ruling party in Bengal has been met with strong resistance, with Trinamool leaders asserting their dominance and dismissing the BJP’s future prospects in the state. As the 2026 elections draw nearer, the political tension in Bengal continues to simmer, with both parties positioning themselves for what promises to be a heated contest.
National, Politics, West Bengal

BJP’s Victory in Delhi Raises Concerns for TMC and Signals Political Shifts

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 9, 2025, Delhi: BJP is set to form the government in Delhi after a massive victory in the 2025 Assembly elections, ending a 27-year-long wait for power in the capital. While this outcome marks a significant setback for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), political experts suggest that it could also have implications for the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal. Despite the differences in size and characteristics between Delhi and West Bengal, the trends seen in Delhi’s election may serve as a warning sign for TMC, especially with BJP as the primary opposition.

One of the key takeaways from AAP’s defeat is the diminishing effectiveness of charity-driven politics. Arvind Kejriwal’s administration introduced several populist measures, including free bus travel for women, subsidized electricity bills up to 200 units, and even financial allowances for Hindu priests. However, this election result indicates that voters may be prioritizing governance and development over such schemes, setting a precedent that could influence political strategies in other states, including West Bengal.

Another significant factor was the shifting pattern of Muslim votes. It is believed that a portion of AAP’s traditional Muslim voter base was divided between Congress and AIMIM. While AAP’s Amanatullah Khan retained his seat in Okhla, AIMIM gained a strong foothold, securing the second position. In Mustafabad, AIMIM’s presence further fragmented the vote share, ultimately benefiting the BJP candidate. If this trend continues, it could weaken opposition strongholds in states like West Bengal, where Muslim votes play a crucial role in electoral outcomes.

AAP’s continuous confrontations with the BJP-led central government also played a role in its decline. Since coming to power, the Kejriwal administration has frequently clashed with the center, leading to policy roadblocks and withdrawal from several central projects. In a centrally controlled union territory like Delhi, such conflicts may have alienated voters who prefer cooperative governance. Similar patterns have been observed in West Bengal, where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has consistently opposed the central government. Analysts speculate that prolonged conflicts with the center could create political challenges for TMC in the future.

With BJP’s resurgence in Delhi, the political landscape in India is witnessing significant shifts. The implications of this victory extend beyond Delhi, posing strategic challenges for opposition parties in other states. The evolving voter sentiment and changing political dynamics will be crucial in determining the course of upcoming elections across the country.

West Bengal

Police Injured in Clash Over DJ Music During Saraswati Puja Procession in Pandua

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 9, 2025, 

Hooghly : A police officer sustained severe injuries, including a fractured head, after being struck by a brick during a violent altercation in Niyal village of Panchghara Tor gram panchayat, Pandua. A village policeman was also injured in the incident, which erupted on Saturday afternoon over the use of a DJ sound system during a Saraswati Puja procession.

As the intermediate examinations approach, villagers had raised concerns over the loud music being played through the sound system. Responding to the complaints, the police attempted to intervene and asked the participants to turn off the music. However, this led to an argument between the officers and the procession participants.

Tensions escalated when a section of villagers allegedly obstructed the police from turning off the sound system. A group of individuals reportedly surrounded the police and launched an attack, pelting them with bricks and stones. Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Rajdev Hazra suffered a severe head injury from a brick, while Village Police officer Sudip Ghosh was also injured in the clash.

Both injured officers were promptly taken to Pandua Rural Hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Upon receiving news of the incident, a large contingent of police personnel, led by the Additional Superintendent of Police and the Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Crime of Hooghly Rural Police, was dispatched to the area. After considerable effort, the police were able to restore order.

Authorities have launched an investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violence. A search operation is underway to locate the miscreants involved in the attack. The administration has urged residents to maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement to prevent further unrest in the area.
Politics, West Bengal

Last Full Budget Session of State Government Set to Begin with Governor’s Address

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 7, 2025, Kolkata : The upcoming session of the state assembly will commence on Monday, February 10, with the Governor’s address, marking the start of what will be the final full budget session of the current state government. Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee confirmed that the session will begin at 2 p.m. on Monday, with a discussion on the Motion of Thanks scheduled for 3:30 p.m. the same day.


The state budget will be presented on Wednesday, February 12, at 4 p.m., followed by a discussion on the Governor’s address on February 13 and 17. The budget will undergo a detailed review on February 18, with a discussion on item-wise grants taking place on February 19. After the budget is presented, it will be scrutinized, and the second round of discussions will begin on March 10.

In a statement regarding the opposition’s approach to the session, Speaker Biman Banerjee remarked that opposition leaders have often refused to attend meetings called by the Speaker. “If they had something to say, they could have come here and said it,” Banerjee commented, adding that their absence from meetings has not stopped them from making statements outside.

In addition, Speaker Banerjee revealed that he has written to the Governor again, urging him to release bills that have been stuck in the legislative process. Some of these bills have been forwarded to the President. However, Banerjee stated that if the Governor or the President has any recommendations, they can inform the Assembly directly.

This session is expected to be significant, as it marks the last full budget session under the current government, with key discussions surrounding the state budget and ongoing legislative matters.
Crime, West Bengal

Explosion at Illegal Firecracker Factory in Nadia Claims Four Lives, Raises Questions on Law Enforcement

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 7, 2025, Kalyani, Nadia  : A devastating explosion at an illegal firecracker factory in Nadia has left four people dead, their charred bodies recovered from the site. Locals report that two of the deceased were women. The factory was located in the Rathtala area of Ward No. 20 of Kalyani Municipality, where the tragic incident occurred.


In a surprising revelation, the local Trinamool councilor, whose jurisdiction includes the area, claimed that he had no knowledge of the illegal factory operating in his ward. He stated, “I came to know about it all after the explosion today. But it was not a factory. It was running in a house.” This statement has raised several concerns, as it appears that the presence of the illegal operation went unnoticed by both local authorities and the police.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with questions being raised about the increasing number of illegal firecracker factories in the region. Despite ongoing protests and calls for action against such operations in congested areas, little progress has been made in curbing the illegal activity.

Local BJP MLA, Ambika Roy, has voiced her concerns about the long-standing nature of the illegal operation, questioning how the firecracker factory was allowed to run undetected for so long. She criticized the law enforcement agencies, stating, “When such incidents happen, the police take action. The police knew everything. This shows that there is no such thing as law and order in the state.”

The explosion has highlighted the dangerous and unchecked proliferation of illegal firecracker factories, with growing fears about public safety. Authorities are now under pressure to investigate how such operations continue to function, often in residential areas, without being detected by local police or administrative bodies.
Economy, West Bengal

National Faceless Assessment Centre Holds Outreach Program in Kolkata to Strengthen Stakeholder Engagement

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 7, 2025, Kolkata :  In a continued effort to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the Faceless Assessment and Appeal process, Ms. Jahanzeb Akhtar, the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (Pr.CCIT) heading the National Faceless Assessment Centre (NaFAC) and National Faceless Appeal Centre (NFAC) in New Delhi, conducted an outreach program today at Aayakar Bhawan, Kolkata. The event aimed to engage with both internal and external stakeholders, understand the challenges faced by them, and gather suggestions for improving workflows and systems within the Income Tax Department.


Ms. Akhtar outlined the significant advancements made in the Faceless vertical of the Income Tax Department, emphasizing the pioneering role of this digitalized system in tax administration. The Faceless Assessment Scheme, launched in 2020 under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, stands as a global model for tax administration, utilizing anonymized case allocations and fully digitalized interactions between taxpayers and the Department. This innovative system has been designed to reduce human intervention, thereby enhancing fairness, speed, and transparency.

During her address, Ms. Akhtar urged officers and officials to take pride in the Faceless Scheme, stressing that it is crucial to discard outdated practices that hinder taxpayer convenience and ease of business. She further highlighted the importance of safeguarding the confidentiality and anonymity inherent in the Faceless Scheme, warning that any attempt to compromise its integrity would result in severe consequences. As part of her message, she reinforced the role of tax administrators in upholding the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.

The program also featured presentations and discussions led by key officers from NaFAC and NFAC, including Ms. Sarita Kumari, CIT, Shri Arvind Singh, Addl. CIT, and Ms. Sangeeta Yadav, Addl. CIT. Their contributions centered on improving the faceless tax procedures and addressing any challenges faced by the Department and taxpayers alike.

Shri Shrikant Kumar Ambastha, CCIT for Kolkata Regions 3 and 6, delivered the welcome address, setting a collaborative tone for the discussions. Smt. Nivedita Biswas, CCIT for Kolkata Regions 4 and 5, also participated in the event, offering valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to improve tax administration in the region.

A significant portion of the outreach program focused on engaging with external stakeholders, including tax practitioners, chartered accountants, advocates, and representatives from trade bodies and chambers of commerce. These stakeholders were encouraged to share their honest feedback and constructive suggestions for enhancing the Faceless experience. Ms. Akhtar and her team took the opportunity to onboard these perspectives, aiming to understand the challenges faced by external parties and identify areas for improvement.

At the same time, Ms. Akhtar cautioned external stakeholders against becoming involved in any attempts to unduly influence the outcomes of faceless proceedings, urging them to work in collaboration with the Income Tax Department to improve the system and ensure its continued success.

The outreach program highlighted the government’s commitment to maintaining a robust and transparent tax administration system, with a focus on leveraging technology to simplify the taxpayer experience. As the Faceless Scheme continues to evolve, both internal and external stakeholders are being encouraged to contribute to the process, ensuring that the system remains effective and aligned with the needs of the taxpayers.
National, West Bengal

Superintendent of Police Inspects Tribeni Kumbh Mela Site, Ensures Safety Measures for Successful Event

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 7, 2025, Kolkata : Superintendent of Police Kamnashis Sen conducted a thorough inspection of the Tribeni Kumbh Mela grounds today, expressing concerns about the construction of the main stage and issuing strict instructions to ensure safety. The event, which attracts a large gathering of devotees and participants, is being held at the Shivpur Football Ground opposite Saptarshi Ghat, where the Kumbh flag was hoisted following a Bhoomi Puja ceremony. The stage, which is set to host cultural programs and accommodate the saints wearing akharas, has raised concerns due to its initial construction with bamboo poles and cut straw, which the Superintendent deemed unsafe.

In response to these concerns, Sen instructed the fair committee and construction officials to rebuild the stage using shalballa poles, ensuring its stability and safety. Additionally, the stage will only be cleared for use after receiving a fit certificate from the decorator, Arun Kumar Bhattacharya, who confirmed that a forty by twenty-foot stage was under construction. Bhattacharya noted that the structure could pose a risk if more than forty people were to be on it at once. The Superintendent emphasized the importance of adhering to safety standards to prevent any accidents similar to the one that occurred in Prayag.

The Superintendent of Police also discussed measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the Kumbh Mela, which will see a large crowd of devotees and saints. Acknowledging the importance of security, Sen assured the public that the police will do everything possible to prevent any untoward incidents. “We are taking extra precautions this time,” said Sen. “Our primary concern is to ensure that the Kumbh Mela remains safe and peaceful, and that no inconvenience is caused to the common people.”

The Superintendent further announced that there would be no entry to the Kumbh area starting from the 10th, with access being relaxed as needed to avoid disruptions. He also mentioned that clear pathways would be maintained for emergency vehicles like ambulances. Since the Madhyamik exams are also set to begin on the 10th, Sen assured that proper monitoring will be in place to avoid any potential conflicts.

Additionally, the police will ensure that the Naga saints, who require separate accommodations, are provided with dedicated tents rather than being housed in the refugee camp. The authorities have held several meetings with various departments, with the Sub-Divisional Magistrate inspecting the grounds alongside other officials to finalize the safety arrangements.

Kumbh Mela convener Abhinav Das expressed cooperation with the police, stating that all safety precautions would be followed in the stage’s construction, with the fit certificate provided to the authorities once issued. The event, which has already garnered attention for its scale, will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of all involved, with the Superintendent of Police reiterating his commitment to ensuring that the Tribeni Kumbh Mela remains a safe and successful occasion for all.

Politics, West Bengal

Congress Faces Another Defection as Over 100 Workers Join Trinamool Congress

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 2, 2025, Kolkata :  In another blow to the Congress party, over 100 of its workers, including prominent figures like Shobha Nagar leader Pappu Singh, have defected to the Trinamool Congress. The group, led by Manikchak MLA Savitri Mitra, made the official switch during a ceremony today, where Mitra handed over the Trinamool Congress flag to the new members.

The defectors cited a lack of opportunities and recognition within the Congress party as the primary reasons for their decision to join the Trinamool Congress. “We are not getting the status or the chance to serve the people as we should have been in the Congress. After seeing the remarkable development under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s leadership, we have decided to join the Trinamool Congress,” said the group of former Congress workers.

Manikchak MLA Savitri Mitra, who has been an active advocate for Mamata Banerjee’s leadership, welcomed the new members and praised their decision to align with the ruling party. “Today, over 100 Congress workers, including leaders, joined the Trinamool Congress, inspired by the development work of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee,” Mitra stated, highlighting the growing support for the Trinamool Congress in the region.

This defection marks a further shift in political allegiances, underlining the ongoing challenges facing the Congress party in Bengal.
Crime, West Bengal

Trinamool Worker Shot Dead in Broad Daylight; Police Commissioner Transferred in Aftermath

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 2, 2025, Kolkata :  Tensions escalated in Naihati after Trinamool Congress worker Santesh Yadav was allegedly shot dead in broad daylight on Friday, prompting swift action from the authorities. The following day, Barrackpore Police Commissioner Alok Rajoria was removed from his position and transferred to the post of DIG Traffic. Ajay Thakur has been appointed as the new Commissioner of Police for Barrackpore, while SP Traffic, Raj Narayan Mukherjee, has also been reassigned to the Second Battalion.


The tragic incident of Yadav’s murder is part of a growing list of similar attacks on Trinamool Congress workers across various districts, including Malda and North 24 Parganas. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who has repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining law and order, delivered a stern message following the murder of Trinamool councilor Dulal Sarkar in Malda. She raised questions regarding the police’s handling of law and order, emphasizing the need for effective action.

Despite the Chief Minister’s calls for accountability and better enforcement of law, violent crimes continue to plague the state, with the Naihati murder underscoring the ongoing challenges in maintaining peace and security. The latest developments in Barrackpore, including the reshuffling of key police officials, highlight the government’s attempt to address concerns over rising crime rates in the region.
Politics, West Bengal

Chief Minister Assigns Anubrata Mandal New Key Responsibilities in East Burdwan and Murshidabad

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 2, 2025, Kolkata :  In a significant move, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has entrusted Anubrata Mandal with crucial responsibilities in multiple districts of West Bengal. Mandal, who had been absent from his active political role for two years, is now set to oversee Aush Gram, Mangalkot, Ketugram, and Murshidabad, as per the instructions of the Chief Minister.

Anubrata Mandal, a prominent leader in Birbhum district, has effectively established a dominant presence in the region. Following his absence, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had formed a core committee to manage the district’s affairs in his stead. With Mandal’s return, he was swiftly appointed as the chairman of the core committee, later assuming leadership roles as the president of Birbhum district and chairman of the SRDA (Sundarban Regional Development Authority).

Speaking to Mandal over the phone, Mamata Banerjee emphasized the importance of his new assignment, noting that it was time for him to resume his active role in the administration. She praised Mandal’s dedication to the Trinamool Congress and expressed confidence in his ability to shoulder the responsibility in East Burdwan and Murshidabad. Mandal, who shares a close relationship with Banerjee, was reportedly elated by the trust placed in him and is set to take charge of the new districts with enthusiasm.

This latest development marks a pivotal moment in the political landscape of the state, with Mandal’s influence set to expand beyond Birbhum into neighboring regions.

West Bengal

Kolkata Police Chief Urges Fitness with New Exercise Mandate for Personnel

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 31, 2025, Kolkata : In an effort to improve the physical fitness of Kolkata Police personnel, Commissioner Manoj Verma has issued a directive mandating that all officers devote one and a half to two hours daily to physical exercise. The move comes after the police chief expressed dissatisfaction with the physical condition of some officers at the annual Kolkata Police sports competition.


Verma emphasized the importance of physical fitness for police officers, stating that it is crucial to the demands of their profession. “It is very important to be physically fit in our profession,” Verma remarked, urging officers to incorporate exercise into their routines, whether in the morning or afternoon. He added that physical fitness would not only benefit officers personally but would also enhance their effectiveness in their work.

The call for increased physical activity among police officers is reminiscent of a lighter moment last year when West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, during an administrative meeting in North Bengal, had humorously advised a particularly heavy-set police officer to exercise. “Do some physical exercise now,” Banerjee had said, to which the officer responded with a simple “Yes, madam.” Banerjee, expressing frustration, had quipped, “You can tell by looking at your Madhya Pradesh!” The comment prompted laughter from those present at the meeting.

While the conversation was lighthearted, it seems to have had a lasting impact. Verma’s official order echoes Banerjee’s earlier advice, reinforcing the idea that fitness is a priority for the state’s police force.

In a related note, Mamata Banerjee, now 70, continues to set a personal example of fitness. During a visit to Subhashini Tea Garden in Alipurduar on January 23, Banerjee, despite her age, demonstrated remarkable physical agility. After addressing the crowd, she effortlessly jumped onto the first step of a bamboo barricade to shake hands with the people, showcasing her enviable fitness. This display of physical vitality drew admiration from many, reinforcing the idea that fitness remains an essential part of Banerjee’s daily routine.

Verma’s new fitness directive is expected to encourage officers across Kolkata to adopt healthier lifestyles, following the example set by both the Chief Minister and the police commissioner himself.
Crime, West Bengal

CBI Faces Show-Cause Order for Lapses in RG Kar Financial Corruption Case

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 31, 2025, Kolkata :  The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been issued a show-cause notice by a trial court for procedural lapses in informing the court about the West Bengal government’s approval for framing charges against former RG Kar Medical College principal Sandip Ghosh in connection with financial irregularities at the institution. This order comes after the CBI had informed the Calcutta High Court about the state government’s clearance to proceed with the charge-framing and trial process.


The RG Kar case, initially centered around allegations of rape and murder involving a doctor, has expanded to include significant charges of financial corruption. Former RG Kar director, Sandeep Ghosh, was arrested as one of the key accused in the case related to these financial irregularities. However, charge-framing could not be initially carried out due to a lack of approval for the health building in question, which was a key element of the case. Recently, the state health department granted the necessary approval, but the CBI failed to inform the trial court about this development in a timely manner.

On January 28, the CBI had notified the Calcutta High Court of the state’s approval to move forward with the charge-framing and trial process. However, the trial court expressed concerns about why the CBI had not informed the same court directly. As a result, the trial court has demanded a written explanation from the central agency regarding the oversight.

According to reports, the CBI had received the no-objection certificate from the state government on the evening of January 27 and promptly communicated it to the High Court the following day. Alongside this, the CBI submitted an update on the progress of the investigation into the financial irregularities at RG Kar. The Calcutta High Court directed that the charge-framing be completed, and the trial process begin within a week.

In addition to the CBI’s investigation, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is also conducting a parallel probe into the case, focusing on the money laundering angle. The ED initiated its investigation independently after filing an enforcement case information report (ECIR).

The CBI has named five individuals in connection with the case, all of whom are currently in judicial custody. They include Sandip Ghosh, his assistant-cum-bodyguard Afsar Ali, private contractors Biplab Sinha and Suman Hazra, and a junior doctor, Ashish Pandey. The primary charges in the case involve manipulation of the tendering process at RG Kar, bypassing the state Public Works Department to award infrastructure contracts in exchange for hefty commissions, smuggling of bio-medical waste, and the illegal sale of organs from unidentified bodies sent to the hospital’s morgue.

The investigation is ongoing, and the CBI is expected to continue its efforts to bring those responsible for the alleged corruption and criminal activities to justice.
Politics, West Bengal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Politics, West Bengal

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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


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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

West Bengal

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

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


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

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