Sujoy Krishna Bhadra Seeks Extension of Conditional Bail from Calcutta High Court

March 20, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, March 20, 2025: Sujoy Krishna Bhadra, who was arrested in connection with a recruitment case, has once again approached the Calcutta High Court seeking an extension of his conditional interim bail and a relaxation of the imposed conditions.

Bhadra was initially granted interim bail due to health concerns, first in an Enforcement Directorate (ED) case in December and later in a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) case in February. The division bench of Justice Arijit Banerjee and Justice Apurba Singh Roy had noted concerns over Bhadra’s deteriorating heart cndition and decided to grant him bail on medical grounds. As a result, he has been staying at home under these conditions until the last week of March.

His case is scheduled to be heard in court later this month, where his legal team is expected to present arguments for extending the bail period. Reports suggest that the latest application also requests a reduction in the conditions imposed on him during the interim bail. The court’s decision on the matter will determine whether Bhadra continues to remain out on bail or has to comply with stricter legal proceedings.

Politics, West Bengal

Political Tensions Escalate in Baruipur Amid BJP and Trinamool Processions

March 20, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : Political tensions flared in Baruipur, South 24 Parganas, on Wednesday as rival processions by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) took place within 100 meters of each other. The situation quickly escalated into a heated exchange, with both parties raising slogans—’Jai Shri Ram’ from BJP supporters and ‘Jai Bangla’ from the TMC camp.

The controversy deepened as remarks made by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari came under fresh scrutiny. During the march, BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul, who accompanied Adhikari, stated, “We are being shown black flags because we stand for traditional Hindus. But we also support nationalist Muslims. If there is injustice, we will raise our voices against it. If someone thinks they can silence us with black flags, then they don’t understand the BJP.”

The police were quick to intervene, managing to de-escalate the tense atmosphere to some extent. The unrest stemmed from an earlier incident in the state assembly, where Speaker Biman Banerjee denied Adhikari the opportunity to speak. In protest, Adhikari led the BJP rally through Banerjee’s constituency in Baruipur, prompting TMC to organize a counter-rally in response.

With assembly elections approaching, the political climate in West Bengal appears to be increasingly charged, with religious undertones shaping the discourse. Adhikari, a prominent leader of the opposition, had previously declared, “I am an MLA of Hindus,” a remark that, while controversial, did not initially spark widespread debate. However, Paul’s clarification that the BJP represents not just Hindus but also nationalist Muslims has added a new dimension to the ongoing political discourse.

As political rivalries intensify, the incident underscores the deepening divide and the significance of religious identity in the state’s electoral battles.

Politics, West Bengal

Stalled Inauguration of Food Streets in Kolkata Sparks Concern

March 20, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata :

The Central Government’s ambitious plan to establish high-quality ‘food streets’ in 100 cities across India has hit a roadblock in Kolkata. Despite the construction of three such food hubs in the city, their inauguration remains indefinitely postponed due to ongoing disputes over stall distribution. The food streets were scheduled to open in 2024, offering a diverse culinary experience ranging from Chinese and Mughlai to Indian and Continental cuisines. However, unresolved tensions over stall allocation have delayed the launch, leaving these expensive establishments unused and deteriorating.

The food stalls, built at a cost of several crores of rupees, now stand neglected. According to municipal sources, the primary issue revolves around who will manage these stalls. One faction advocates for handing them over to large corporations to attract more visitors and enhance the appeal of the food streets. Another group insists that, as per the Centre’s guidelines, only registered hawkers should be allowed to operate these stalls. Further complicating matters, there is no consensus on the process of selecting hawkers and conducting fair allotment elections.

Due to this administrative impasse, the completed stalls at Russell Street, Patuli, and Tala remain unutilized. Meanwhile, similar food street concepts have flourished in major cities across Europe and America, where designated locations serve as bustling culinary hubs. The Narendra Modi-led government introduced this initiative to replicate that success in India, with Kolkata among the selected cities. However, without a resolution on stall management, the vision of vibrant, organized food streets in Kolkata remains unrealized.

Local stakeholders and food lovers await swift intervention and a decisive resolution to prevent further wastage of resources and to bring Kolkata’s food streets to life as originally envisioned.

West Bengal

Rising Accidents on National Highway No. 16 Raise Concerns in Howrah and Surrounding Districts

March 20, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : The increasing number of accidents on National Highway No. 16, formerly known as Mumbai Road, has raised serious concerns among commuters and local residents. This vital route serves as the primary means of communication for people traveling between Howrah, East and West Medinipur, Jhargram, and Kolkata. However, the deteriorating condition of the road, coupled with reckless driving, has turned several sections into accident-prone zones, leading to frequent fatalities.

On Monday morning, a monk from Bharat Sevashram Sangh tragically lost his life in an accident on the highway in Bagnan, Howrah. Just the previous night, a minor was killed in another accident caused by reckless driving on the same stretch of road. Local authorities and district police officials have acknowledged the alarming rise in accidents on this crucial highway, with multiple intersections becoming virtual death traps.

Despite the ongoing expansion and development of the national highway, the number of accidents continues to surge. A senior official from the district police explained that most of these mishaps occur late at night or in the early hours of the morning when traffic police presence is minimal. Many drivers, taking advantage of the absence of law enforcement, violate traffic rules by switching lanes arbitrarily and disregarding signals, significantly increasing the risk of collisions.

Authorities have urged stricter enforcement of traffic laws, improved road conditions, and enhanced surveillance, especially during high-risk hours. As concerns grow over road safety, commuters and residents are calling for immediate measures to prevent further loss of life and make National Highway No. 16 safer for all travelers.

National, West Bengal

CM Mamata Banerjee Demands Bharat Ratna for Sunita Williams After Her Return from Space

March 20, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : After spending nine months in space, NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has safely returned to Earth along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore. Their return on Wednesday has sparked widespread relief and joy across the globe, particularly in India, where Sunita’s Indian heritage has generated immense excitement.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed her admiration for Sunita’s achievement and has urged the central government to confer the Bharat Ratna upon her. Standing in the Assembly, Mamata Banerjee declared, “Sunita is the daughter of India. I am requesting the central government to award her the Bharat Ratna.” She further stated that she had been closely following Sunita’s journey and had regularly checked on her status.

The Chief Minister took to her official X handle in the morning to extend her congratulations to Sunita and her fellow astronauts. Later, in the Assembly, she reiterated her appreciation, saying, “On behalf of the Legislative Assembly, I express my gratitude to Sunita Williams. Each of them has endured extreme physical challenges. I also extend my gratitude to the rescue team for ensuring their safe return.”

Mamata Banerjee also took the opportunity to remember Kalpana Chawla, the Indian-origin astronaut who tragically lost her life during the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. She discussed the technical difficulties that Kalpana’s spacecraft faced and compared them to the issues encountered by Sunita’s mission. “Kalpana Chawla also went. She could not return. I have studied space science. We see that when planes face technical issues, they return. I have heard that this spacecraft also had some problems. It actually caught fire. That is why they had to be stuck in space for so many months. Special thanks to the rescue team,” she said.

Sunita Williams has now set a new record for her prolonged stay at the space station, adding another milestone to her illustrious career. Mamata Banerjee emphasized the mental challenges astronauts face during extended space missions, stating, “They spent days in mental anguish. A storm raged in their minds. I checked on them every day. I saw that two countries came forward to help NASA. They landed in Florida. I congratulate them.”

The call for Bharat Ratna has added momentum to the nationwide celebration of Sunita Williams’ remarkable journey, as she continues to inspire millions with her contributions to space exploration.

Politics, West Bengal

Tension Escalates During Subhendu Adhikari’s Procession in Baruipur

March 20, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : A volatile situation erupted in Baruipur, South 24 Parganas, as Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and supporters staged a protest against opposition leader Subhendu Adhikari during his procession. Demonstrators waved black flags and raised ‘Go Back’ slogans, targeting BJP leaders and party workers. In response, BJP supporters countered with slogans of their own, escalating tensions in the area.

The clash intensified as BJP and TMC processions took place simultaneously within a 100-meter radius, leading to a charged atmosphere in the assembly constituency of Speaker Biman Banerjee. Concerns have been raised regarding how permissions were granted for two political processions at the same location and time, further fueling the controversy.

As Subhendu Adhikari arrived in Baruipur, TMC supporters vehemently protested his presence, surrounding his car and chanting slogans such as ‘thief, thief’ and ‘Shishirbabu’s son.’ The BJP leader responded by demanding the imposition of President’s rule in West Bengal, questioning the Election Commission’s ability to conduct free and fair elections under the current circumstances.

A significant police force was deployed to control the situation and prevent further escalation. Amid the tension, Subhendu Adhikari firmly stated, ‘Let the Election Commission decide whether elections are possible in West Bengal without President’s rule. I am demanding President’s rule.’ He further asserted, ‘I will do whatever I have to.’

The events in Baruipur underscore the growing political friction in West Bengal, raising concerns over the state’s election preparedness and law and order situation.

Politics, West Bengal

BJP Yuva Morcha Protests at Hooghly Shiksha Bhavan, Submits Memorandum with Educational Demands

March 20, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) staged a protest today in front of Hooghly’s Shiksha Bhavan, highlighting critical issues in the education sector. The demonstration, organized by the Hooghly organizational district of the BJYM, witnessed participation from members of the Mahila Morcha as well. The protest aimed to draw attention to pressing educational concerns and present a memorandum outlining a seven-point demand list to the authorities.

Among the key attendees were former district president Tushar Majumdar, general secretary Suresh Sau, and BJYM president Rajiv Gharami, along with several BJP leaders and party workers. The protest march, which commenced from the Hooghly organizational district office, culminated at Shiksha Bhavan, where the memorandum was formally submitted to the education department officials.

The seven demands put forth by the BJYM included the immediate resolution of inadequate toilet facilities in multiple schools, the timely introduction of service books within a stipulated two-year period, and the appointment of head teachers and necessary assistant teachers in every institution. Additionally, the memorandum called for stringent measures to curb corruption in the mid-day meal program, legal action against those misusing school management funds, the elimination of political interference in educational institutions, and the re-establishment of democratic elections for School Management Committees (SMC).

Following the memorandum submission, tensions escalated when BJP workers initiated a sit-in protest outside the Education Building. A brief scuffle ensued between the protestors and the police as authorities intervened to manage the situation. Despite the confrontation, the protest remained largely peaceful, with demonstrators reiterating their commitment to ensuring educational reforms in the district.

The BJP Yuva Morcha leaders have urged the administration to take swift action on their demands, emphasizing that the welfare of students and teachers must be prioritized. The event marks yet another instance of the BJYM’s continued advocacy for transparency and efficiency in the education system.

Politics, West Bengal

Massive Ram Navami Procession Expected in Kolkata Amid Security Concerns

March 19, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 19, 2025, Kolkata : BJP’s opposition leader, Suvendu Adhikari, has announced plans for a large-scale Ram Navami procession in Kolkata, claiming that nearly one crore Hindus will participate in the event. This announcement has stirred discussions regarding security and communal harmony in the city.

Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma acknowledged the potential risks associated with such a large gathering but assured that the police administration is fully prepared to manage the situation effectively. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents and to ensure the safety of all citizens.

Adhikari emphasized that this year’s procession would be significantly larger than previous ones and stated that no political party or administrative body would be able to halt the event. His statements have sparked debates across political and social circles regarding the possible implications of such a massive procession.

He also strongly criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s remarks about certain organizations like the RSS, Bajrang Dal, and Vishwa Hindu Parishad, interpreting them as an insult to the Hindu community. Additionally, Adhikari expressed concerns over possible disruptions, citing past instances of violence during religious events. He referenced incidents in areas such as Rajabazar, Bajbaj, and Birbhum, suggesting that there could be attempts to create disturbances similar to those reported in neighboring Bangladesh.

Authorities have urged all communities to maintain peace and cooperation during the upcoming festival. Security measures, including increased surveillance and crowd management strategies, are being put in place to ensure that the event proceeds without conflict. The administration has also appealed to all stakeholders to respect law and order while celebrating religious traditions.

As the date approaches, the city remains on high alert, with efforts being made to balance religious sentiments with public safety and communal harmony.

Politics, West Bengal

Political Rhetoric Heats Up in West Bengal Ahead of 2026 Elections

March 19, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 19, 2025, Kolkata : Political tensions continue to escalate in West Bengal as Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari reiterates his stance on community politics while launching sharp criticisms against the ruling Trinamool Congress. Adhikari, who recently made controversial remarks about minority communities, now asserts that the BJP is not against any community but opposes the policies of the Trinamool Congress. He stated, “We have never spoken against any other community. We are not against the community against which you are angry. We are against this policy of the Trinamool Congress.”

His remarks come amid growing political polarization in the state, where vote-bank strategies remain a focal point. With approximately 33 percent of the electorate comprising minority voters and around 67 percent majority voters, parties are seen making calculated moves to consolidate their respective bases. The upcoming 2026 Assembly elections have heightened the competition, leading to intensifying rhetoric from both sides.

Adhikari did not hold back in his criticism of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, sarcastically remarking, “You left the opposition leader out for nine months. And there are two sessions. Do whatever you can. Kejriwal will go wherever Mamata goes.” The reference to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal adds another dimension to the ongoing political battle, as alliances and rivalries shape the pre-election landscape.

With both sides engaging in aggressive campaigning, the state is witnessing a surge in political messaging, with posters promoting Hindu unity becoming widespread, while the Trinamool Congress counters with its own outreach strategies. The charged atmosphere reflects the deepening divide as the election approaches.

Beyond verbal exchanges, concerns have been raised over potential unrest, with Adhikari alleging that political conflicts in Bengal are not just limited to ideological battles but also involve the threat of violence. Security measures are being assessed to prevent any escalation of tensions. Meanwhile, the administration continues to emphasize governance issues such as employment, industrial growth, and development as key priorities for the state.

As the political landscape shifts, the focus remains on how parties navigate these complexities in the lead-up to the crucial 2026 Assembly elections. Authorities urge political leaders and citizens alike to uphold peace and democratic values while engaging in political discourse.

Crime, West Bengal

Crackdown on Illegal Arms Trade in Kolkata Leads to Arrest

March 17, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 17, 2025, Kolkata : With elections still nearly a year away, concerns over illegal arms trade are escalating in Kolkata. In a major breakthrough, the Special Task Force (STF) of the Railway Police made a significant arrest on Monday, uncovering an arms smuggling operation in the heart of the city.

Acting on intelligence inputs, STF officials apprehended a suspect near Sealdah station at approximately 5:30 AM. The individual, identified as Hasan Sheikh, a resident of Malda, was found in possession of six firearms and eight rounds of ammunition. Authorities confirmed that the weapons were being transported illegally, raising alarms over potential threats to public safety.

According to officials, Hasan Sheikh had traveled aboard the Hat Bazar Express and was intercepted upon his arrival at Sealdah station. A routine baggage check led to the discovery of the concealed firearms and ammunition. Following the seizure, law enforcement personnel immediately took him into custody for further investigation.

Preliminary inquiries suggest that the weapons originated from Bihar, specifically Mansingh, and were transported to Kolkata via Kaliachak in Malda. Investigators are now working to trace the supply chain and identify any larger networks involved in the illicit arms trade.

STF officials have initiated legal proceedings and are preparing a detailed seizure report near Sealdah station. The accused is currently being interrogated to uncover potential connections and ascertain the final destination of the smuggled arms. Authorities remain vigilant and have intensified surveillance to prevent further instances of illegal arms trafficking in the city. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are anticipated as law enforcement agencies continue their crackdown on unlawful activities.

Politics, West Bengal

Allegations of Water Supply Disruption Over Voting in Kolkata

March 17, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 17, 2025, Kolkata: Allegations have surfaced against Trinamool Congress (TMC) councilor Lipika Manna of Ward No. 107 in Kolkata, accusing her of disconnecting water taps in certain localities as a punitive measure for not voting. Several residents claim that they were warned of water supply cuts if they failed to vote in favor of the ruling party.

A total of 40 families have lodged a complaint with Borough Chairman Sushant Ghosh, stating that the councilor had explicitly mentioned that water facilities would be restricted for non-voters. A local resident expressed frustration, stating that water taps could no longer be installed in the area due to objections, allegedly because of the presence of a nearby school. The resident further emphasized the hardships faced in fetching water from distant locations. He also mentioned that while locals are frequently called to attend meetings and political processions, they often choose not to participate. However, they claim that the councilor insists on their daily presence at the party office, despite their non-affiliation with any political group.

An elderly woman, who had approached the councilor with a petition, recounted the experience, stating that she was treated with extreme rudeness. She added that when she expressed her inability to join political processions due to her age, her concerns were disregarded.

Reports indicate that four water taps in the affected area have allegedly been relocated to the banks of a nearby canal, exacerbating the residents’ struggles. Addressing the grievances, Borough Chairman Sushant Ghosh acknowledged that he had received a petition a month ago regarding the ongoing water crisis, which, according to locals, has persisted for the past 12 to 13 years. Residents claim that four water connections were severed near Narkelbagan, prompting them to seek intervention.

In response, Ghosh stated that upon receiving the complaint, he immediately sought clarification from the borough executive. Officials informed him that the lines had not been permanently cut but were temporarily disconnected to investigate water distribution issues. He assured the residents that necessary steps would be taken to restore the supply. Emphasizing the importance of equal access to public utilities, Ghosh asserted that voting preferences should never be a determinant for the provision of essential services.

Politics, West Bengal

Speculation Grows Over Dilip Ghosh’s Potential Return as BJP State President Ahead of Amit Shah’s Kolkata Visit

March 17, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 16, 2025, Kolkata : Former BJP state president Dilip Ghosh is set to visit the West Bengal Assembly on Tuesday at 2 PM to meet with BJP MLAs, sparking widespread speculation regarding his future role within the party. Ghosh’s visit comes during a crucial pre-election phase, fueling rumors that he might be in line to reclaim the position of BJP state president.

The political buzz surrounding Ghosh has intensified as other key figures within the state BJP, including current State President Sukanta Majumdar and prominent leader Shuvendu Adhikari, are expected to meet with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday night. It is anticipated that discussions surrounding leadership roles, including the state BJP president position, will be on the agenda.

Amit Shah, who is scheduled to visit Kolkata on March 29 for a one-day trip, is expected to hold a series of organizational meetings in preparation for next year’s assembly elections. Majumdar confirmed that Shah’s visit will focus on strengthening the BJP’s organizational framework, with the likelihood of a state president being announced before the visit gaining traction.

Majumdar also revealed that the central leadership has been informed that 25 district presidents have been elected, marking a significant step towards the selection of the state president. However, Majumdar clarified that no formal instructions have been received yet, and the nomination process will commence once the green light is given by the central leadership.

As the political drama unfolds, Dilip Ghosh’s meetings with BJP MLAs prior to the state president announcement are adding fuel to the speculation, with many watching closely to see how these developments will shape the party’s strategy ahead of the crucial state elections.

International, Politics

Nepalese people know mastermind behind royal massacre of 2001 says Prachanda

March 16, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

PTI, Kathmandu, Mar 15, 2025 : Nepal’s former prime minister and CPN-Maoist Centre chairman Pushpakamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on Friday said that the Nepalese people know who is the mastermind behind the royal palace massacre of 2001, in which the entire family of then king Birendra Shah were killed.

Prachanda, speaking at a programme organised by his party in Sindhupalchowk district, said, “The palace massacre was carried out by those within the royal family itself.”

“Who had killed his own brother?” Prachanda said, instigating serious accusation on former monarch Gyanendra.

“One who was behind the royal massacre is now talking big things,” he said. “People know very well the mastermind behind the royal massacre,” he said.

On the night of June 1, 2001, the entire family of Birendra, including queen Aishwarya and crown prince Dipendra, were killed in a mysterious manner.

However, the official probe committee formed after the incident said in its report that then crown prince Dipendra killed his entire family, including the king, queen, his brother and sister, before killing himself. The report was dismissed by many at that time.

Nepal’s former King Gyanendra Shah, 77, on Sunday arrived here amidst tight security, as pro-monarchy activists gathered at the airport to welcome him.

As soon as Gyanendra landed at the Tribhuvan International Airport from Pokhara on board the Simrik Air helicopter, hundreds of loyalists, including leaders and cadres of pro-monarchists Rastriya Prajatantra Party, started chanting slogans in his favour.

The crowd carried placards with slogans such as “We want our King back,” “Abolish federal republican system and reinstate the monarchy,” and “The King and the country are dearer than our life.”

Prachanda also accused the former monarch of being involved in gold smuggling and idol theft.

“One who had stolen big idols in the past is now trying to become the king,” said Prachanda. “Don’t think that Nepalese people have forgotten who was involved in gold smuggling in the past,” he claimed.

Prachanda recalled that when he became the prime minister for the first time, he announced to re-investigate the palace massacre but it could not happen as he had to quit the post within short period.

“If I had completed the five-year tenure as the prime minister, it would be possible to punish the traitor and one who killed his own brother,” he said.

Prachanda warned the former monarch not to show misadventure.

“A federal democratic republic system established with the sacrifice of thousands of people cannot be snatched by taking some 10,000 to 15,000 people on the street,” he said.

Prachanda also called people to participate in the grand rally being organised by his party in Kathmandu on March 28 to counter the move of the pro-monarchists.

National, Politics

CEC calls for discussion on linking of EPIC and Aadhaar on March 18

March 16, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Election Commission of India (ECI) has invited suggestions from all national and state political parties by April 30, to address any unresolved electoral issues

ANI, News Delhi, March 16, 2025 : Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar called for a discussion with the Home Secretary, Secretary Legislative Department and CEO UIDAI with the Commission, on the linking of EPIC and Aadhaar on March 18, sources said on Saturday.

According to the sources, the meeting is scheduled in the Election Commission on Tuesday, March 18.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has invited suggestions from all national and state political parties by April 30, to address any unresolved electoral issues at the level of Electoral Registration Officers (ERO), District Election Officers (DEO), or Chief Electoral Officers (CEO).

Earlier on March 10, the Election Commission Monday said the matter related to duplicate voter identity card numbers is a “legacy issue,” with such cards being issued even between 2008 and 2013, when the BJP-led NDA was not in power.

In the past, the poll body also directed states to remove all discrepancies in the elector’s photo identity card during annual electoral roll updates.

The poll body had recently clarified that irrespective of the EPIC number, an elector can cast a vote only at their designated polling station.

To allay any apprehensions, all cases of duplicate EPIC numbers will be resolved within three months’ time by ensuring a unique EPIC number for the existing electors having duplicate EPIC numbers and for future electors as well, the EC had said.

The issue of duplicate numbers found an echo in Parliament on March 10, with Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi demanding a discussion in the House on voter lists, on which several political parties have raised certain questions.

He said, “The question is being raised on the voter list in every state. In Maharashtra, questions were raised about the black and white voter lists. The entire opposition is just saying that there should be a discussion on the voter’s list.”

On March 6, a delegation of the Trinamool Congress met Election Commission officials in Kolkata regarding their complaints about the same Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number.

Politics, West Bengal

Mamata reaffirms commitment to serve farmers on ‘Krishak Divas’

March 16, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

MP, 16 Mar 2025, Kolkata: Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Friday, took to her X handle to highlight her government’s various initiatives aimed at supporting farmers in the state. She reaffirmed her government’s dedication to their welfare.

The Trinamool Congress has been observing March 14 as ‘Krishak Divas’ annually in remembrance of the 14 farmers who lost their lives in Nandigram, East Midnapore, during the 2007 anti-land acquisition movement.

Recognising the relentless efforts of farmers, Banerjee lauded their hard work and described them as “our pride.”

“We try to the best of our ability within our limited capacity so that our farmer brothers and sisters of Bengal are supported befittingly. We provide financial assistance under the ‘Krishak Bandhu’ scheme, compensation in the event of death while working, bearing the full cost of crop insurance premiums, financial assistance in case of natural calamities,” she wrote on the social media handle.

Elaborating on the other measures, she maintained that her government procures paddy from the farmers at a fair price to stop the distress sale of crops. Other initiatives include providing farmer pensions and setting up 186 ‘Kisan Mandis’ to facilitate better market access and providing agricultural machinery at a subsidized rate to ease their workload.

Banerjee stated that her government launched the ‘Bangla Sashya Bima’ (Bengal Crop Insurance Project) in 2019. “In the days to come, our government will continue to stand by our farmer friends in this manner,” Banerjee asserted.

The state government has recently disbursed Rs 351 crore under Bangla Sasya Bima (BSB) to over 9 lakh farmers whose paddy cultivation was affected by natural calamities during the Kharif season last year.

Cyclone Dana that made its landfall in the Odisha coast at the end of October last year affected paddy cultivation in a number of South Bengal districts by bringing in heavy rainfall. Some days before the cyclone, the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) had allegedly released water that inundated parts of Howrah, Hooghly and East Burdwan.

https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/mamata-reaffirms-commitment-to-serve-farmers-on-krishak-divas-602480

Politics, West Bengal

TMC MLA Humayun Kabir Defends Remarks, Refuses to Apologize in Show-Cause Reply

March 16, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 16, 2025, Kolkata : Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA from Bharatpur, Murshidabad, Humayun Kabir, on Saturday submitted his response to the show-cause notice issued by the party’s disciplinary committee. The notice was issued under the directive of TMC chairperson and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, following Kabir’s remarks on religion, which had stirred controversy.

State Parliamentary Affairs Minister Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, who also chairs the disciplinary committee, confirmed receipt of Kabir’s response and stated that the committee would review it in a meeting on Monday before making a final decision. Sources revealed that Kabir did not offer an apology, asserting that his statements did not violate the party’s disciplinary norms. He maintained that his comments were made in defense of his community and were in response to statements by Leader of Opposition (LoP) Suvendu Adhikari, which he deemed objectionable.

Kabir had initially requested an extension until Monday to submit his response but ultimately sent a two-page reply via WhatsApp on Saturday morning. In his statement, he justified his remarks and reiterated his commitment to defending his religious community against any attacks. He further stated that he prioritized his community over party obligations, emphasizing that his words did not tarnish the party’s image.

The controversy stems from Kabir’s strong reaction to Adhikari’s alleged comments targeting Muslim MLAs in the ruling party. On Thursday, Kabir had demanded an apology or retraction from Adhikari within 72 hours, warning of consequences in the Assembly if the demand was not met. He had previously stated that 42 Muslim MLAs of TMC would collectively respond to Adhikari’s remarks if he failed to apologize.

Chattopadhyay has also instructed Kabir to submit a hard copy of his response, after which the disciplinary committee will deliberate on the matter. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has strongly condemned Adhikari’s statements, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of introducing divisive religious politics into West Bengal. The situation is expected to intensify as the Assembly session resumes on Monday, with both parties holding firm on their positions.

Crime, National, Politics

Indian Journalists Union Condemns Arrest of Two Women Journalists in Telangana

March 13, 2025 Kalimpong News Leave a comment

KalimNews, New Delhi, March 13, 2025 : The Indian Journalists Union (IJU) has strongly condemned the arrest of two women journalists, P Revathi, Managing Director of the online news channel Pulse News, and reporter Bandi Sandhya. The Hyderabad Cyber Crime police detained them on March 12, citing their alleged circulation of a video containing defamatory content against the ruling Congress government and Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy. The journalists have been charged under various sections of the IT Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), with the police claiming that the case involves political motivations.

According to the police, the video in question was posted on social media platform X and was allegedly recorded at the office of the Opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) party in Banjara Hills. Authorities claim the video was funded by the BRS and was posted following a complaint by the Congress state secretary of social media. The video featured a provocative interview with an individual making controversial remarks, leading to an FIR under sections 111, 61(2), 353(2), and 352 of BNS, along with section 67 of the IT Act, which pertains to publishing or circulating false information, rumors, or content intended to provoke a breach of peace.

The police have also accused the journalists of involvement in prior cases of social media trolling. They claim the video was recorded in February but started circulating online from March 10, just before the Telangana Assembly’s Budget session on March 12. A search of the journalists’ office led to the seizure of laptops, hard disks, and CPUs as part of the investigation. Revathi had previously posted on X urging people not to share the video, fearing legal repercussions. Meanwhile, the BRS party has condemned the arrests, arguing that the video merely amplified the grievances of a common citizen against the government.

In a joint statement, IJU President Geetartha Pathak, a former member of the Press Council of India, and Secretary General Sabina Inderjit, who also serves as Vice President of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), criticized the swift action by the cyber police against the so-called trolling of the Chief Minister, labeling it a politically motivated move. They noted that women journalists across the country frequently face online harassment, yet law enforcement agencies have not acted against the perpetrators. The IJU emphasized that the video expressed a citizen’s concerns and that arresting journalists for performing their duty is unacceptable. The Union has demanded the immediate withdrawal of all charges and the release of Revathi and Sandhya, reiterating its call for press freedom and the protection of journalists from political persecution.