Outrage Erupts Over Police Handling of Jayanagar Child Murder Case: Family Demands Justice and Transparency

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 6, 2024, Kolkata: The family of a 10-year-old girl, whose tragic murder has sparked widespread anger, is demanding a thorough autopsy amid fears that this case may follow the disturbing precedent set by the RG Kar incident. Political parties have rallied in support, with CPM leader Dispita Dhar confronting local police at the Kantapukur mortuary after the victim’s body was transported there on Saturday night.


Tensions escalated as police attempted to remove Dhar from the morgue, leading to chaos. “You have looted bodies before; this time it’s a ten-year-old girl,” Dhar declared, questioning the police’s motives and transparency in the investigation. Eyewitnesses reported that police officers broke a media camera during the scuffle.

Local residents have expressed their outrage following the discovery of the girl’s mutilated body just 500 meters from her home, after her family had reported her missing on Friday night. The Left and BJP have united to demand justice, fearing that the incomplete forensic examination in the RG Kar case could repeat itself in this tragedy. With mounting pressure for accountability, the community stands firm in their call for justice and proper investigation.

Two Militants Killed in Kupwara Clash Amid Tensions Ahead of Vote Counting in Kashmir

Baby Chakraborty, Kalimnews – October 5, 2024. New Delhi :  In a significant anti-terror operation, two militants were killed in a joint raid conducted by the Indian Army and Kashmir Police in Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir, late Friday night. The operation, carried out in the Gugladhar area, marked a major success in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the region, especially ahead of the crucial vote counting for the recently concluded assembly elections.


Acting on intelligence reports, security forces launched a search operation in the area, suspecting militant activity. During the search, the militants opened fire on the joint forces, prompting a fierce gun battle. In the ensuing exchange, two militants were neutralized. A large cache of weapons and ammunition, including advanced firearms, was recovered from the militants’ hideout, indicating the scale of their planned attacks.

According to army officials, the militants had been operating from a well-fortified location, which served as a base for planning potential sabotage operations. Given the upcoming vote counting and the discovery of these weapons, security forces are on high alert, fearing further attempts to destabilize the region.

The operation in Kupwara is ongoing, with security personnel combing the area for any remaining militants who may be in hiding. Officials believe that this recent success could prevent more serious incidents during this sensitive period in Kashmir.

The assembly elections, which concluded last week, have seen heightened security, as several militant attacks have occurred in the region. Just days before the final round of voting, a security guard was martyred in a gunfight with militants in the Kathura region, underscoring the ongoing threat of insurgency.

The discovery of weapons and militant hideouts so close to the vote counting has raised concerns within the security establishment. Forces remain vigilant to ensure that no further violence disrupts the democratic process in the volatile region.

Despite these challenges, the joint efforts of the army and police have been praised for their swift and coordinated action in curbing militancy. However, the situation remains tense as forces continue their operations in the region to ensure peace and stability.

Tragedy Strikes Uttarakhand: Bus Carrying Wedding Party Plunges into Gorge, Leaving Over 30 Dead

Baby Chakraborty, Kalimnews, October 5, 2024, Pauri (Uttarakhand) : In a devastating accident on Friday night, at least 30 people lost their lives, and several others were critically injured when a bus carrying a wedding party plunged into a deep gorge in Uttarakhand’s Pauri district. The incident occurred around 8 p.m. as the bus, en route from Laldhang in Haridwar to Biran Khal village, lost control and fell nearly 200 feet into a ditch, just two kilometers from the bride’s home.


The bus was carrying 40 to 50 passengers, mostly family and friends of the groom. Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle suddenly swerved off the road, leading to the catastrophic fall. Local villagers rushed to the scene after hearing the cries of the trapped passengers, and emergency services were immediately alerted. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local police arrived quickly, launching a large-scale rescue operation.

While 25 to 30 people were declared dead on the spot, the remaining survivors, many of them severely injured, were rushed to nearby hospitals. Authorities fear the death toll may rise, given the critical condition of several victims.

Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly Speaker Ritu Khanduri visited the accident site shortly after news broke. However, her arrival was met with protests from grieving and angry villagers, reflecting the deep shock and sorrow felt by both families involved in the wedding.

The rescue operations continued through the night, as officials worked tirelessly to retrieve bodies and aid survivors. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation, though authorities are considering factors like road conditions and possible mechanical failure.

This tragic event has cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion, leaving two families shattered by grief. The local administration has vowed to provide assistance to the affected families, but the sense of loss remains overwhelming as the region mourns this heartbreaking accident.

Tensions Escalate in Jagaddal as Former BJP MP Arjun Singh Injured in Attack

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, North 24 Parganas: The Jagaddal area has erupted into chaos once again as former BJP MP Arjun Singh reported an attack on his home, just ahead of the Puja festivities. Singh claims that his residence was targeted with gunfire and explosives, resulting in injuries to himself.


According to Singh, a group of armed assailants arrived on multiple motorcycles early Friday morning and launched a barrage of bombs and gunfire in front of his house. “I was inside when I heard the blasts. I stepped out to assess the situation and was hit by a splinter from a bomb on my leg,” Singh stated. Eyewitnesses reported a scene of panic as the area became a battlefield, with police forces swiftly arriving to contain the situation.

Singh alleged that the attack occurred in plain sight of law enforcement officers present at the scene. “Bricks and bombs were thrown at my security guards and workers, and shots were fired. It was pure mayhem,” he added, highlighting the danger faced not only by himself but also by those around him, including a local MLA who was reportedly present during the incident.

The attack has heightened tensions in the Meghna Mor area of Jagaddal, leading to widespread concerns among local residents. This isn’t the first time Singh has faced violence; his home, known as Mazdoor Bhavan, was attacked in 2021, prompting an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Singh alleges that these attacks are politically motivated, stemming from his role as a party observer during the Bhavanipur by-election, where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was the Trinamool Congress candidate.

Interestingly, Singh had switched allegiance to the Trinamool Congress shortly after the 2021 incident but returned to the BJP following his exclusion from the Lok Sabha ticket this election cycle. His political journey has been tumultuous, reflecting the intense rivalries and volatility in West Bengal’s political landscape.

As the situation unfolds, Singh remains at home, recuperating from his injuries, while authorities work to ensure the safety of the area. The incident raises pressing questions about political violence in the region and the safety of public figures amidst escalating tensions as the festive season approaches.

Unique Protest on the Hudson River Calls for Global Action Against Genocide of Hindus in Bangladesh

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, New York: A novel and impactful protest took place on the Hudson River in New York, aiming to rally the global Hindu community to take action against the ongoing genocide of Hindus in Bangladesh. Activists gathered to draw attention to the alarming decline of the Hindu population in the country and to commemorate the atrocities committed during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.


During the war, an estimated 2.8 million people were killed, with the Hindu community bearing a significant brunt of the violence. Reports indicate that over 200,000 women were subjected to sexual assault, reflecting the brutal realities of that era. At the time, Hindus comprised approximately 20% of Bangladesh’s population; however, this figure has since plummeted to just 9%. Ongoing issues such as riots, kidnappings, and forced resignations continue to threaten the safety and rights of Hindus in the region. Activists report that there have been 250 attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh since August of this year alone.

The protesters, led by activists Pankaj Mehta and Sitangshu Guha, emphasized the urgent need for the international community to recognize the 1971 genocide as one of the largest genocides since World War II. They called on the United Nations to formally classify the events of that period as genocide, asserting that recognition is a crucial step toward justice and accountability.

Participants of the protest carried banners and placards urging global leaders to take a stand against the ongoing violence and to support the rights of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. The event served as a reminder of the historical atrocities faced by Hindus and called for solidarity among Hindus worldwide to ensure that such atrocities are not forgotten.

As the situation continues to develop in Bangladesh, the protesters hope that their actions on the Hudson River will inspire broader awareness and mobilization among the global Hindu community and prompt international organizations to take meaningful action against the violence and discrimination faced by minorities in Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Modi Expresses Concern Over Escalating Crisis in the Middle East During Cabinet Meeting

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, New Delhi: The ongoing turmoil in the Middle East took center stage during a crucial cabinet committee meeting on Thursday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing deep concern over the escalating situation. As violence intensifies in the region, key government officials gathered to assess potential impacts on India’s trade and oil imports.


During the meeting, discussions focused on the critical nature of the conflict and its implications for India, particularly in light of rising oil prices and disrupted maritime trade routes. Informants indicate that the deteriorating circumstances in West Asia could lead to increased instability, with the potential for unrest to reverberate within India.

Prime Minister Modi underscored the need for peaceful resolutions, emphasizing that New Delhi has consistently urged warring nations to cease hostilities and engage in constructive dialogue. However, the situation remains precarious, with countries such as Israel and Iran remaining entrenched in their positions. Tensions escalated further on Tuesday when Tehran launched an attack targeting Tel Aviv, heightening concerns over regional security.

The cabinet members acknowledged that rising oil prices, spurred by the conflict, would have significant repercussions for the Indian economy, particularly since India is a major importer of oil from nations like Iran. An increase in oil costs could lead to higher domestic prices, impacting consumers across the country. Additionally, disruptions in maritime trade could exacerbate economic challenges.

Key figures present at the emergency cabinet meeting included Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh. The meeting underscored the government’s urgent need to formulate strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of the ongoing conflict while navigating the complexities of international diplomacy.

As the situation in the Middle East continues to unfold, India remains vigilant, with government officials closely monitoring developments and preparing to respond to any further escalations that may arise.

BJP Set to Announce New State President Post-Puja: Key Names in the Running

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, Delhi: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is gearing up to announce a new state president in West Bengal following the upcoming Puja festivities. Current State President Sukanta Majumder, who also serves as the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, recently visited Delhi at the invitation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah for crucial discussions regarding the party’s leadership.


Sources within the BJP indicate that a significant reshuffling is on the horizon, with the final name for the state president set to be revealed after obtaining the green light from the party’s All India President, JP Nadda. While the BJP has been discreet about the specifics of the meeting, they have labeled it an “organizational meeting.”

Three prominent names are reportedly in contention for the top position: Member of Parliament Jyotirmoy Singh Mahat, Jagannath Sarkar, and former Union Minister Debashree Chowdhury. These candidates emerged as potential leaders during discussions between West Bengal BJP’s leadership and Amit Shah, signaling a strategic shift in the party’s approach in the region.

As the Puja celebrations draw near, all eyes will be on the BJP to see who will take the helm and steer the party in West Bengal.

Bengali Language Receives Classical Status: A Milestone for Cultural Heritage

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, Kolkata: In a significant boost for the Bengali language, the Ministry of Culture has officially recognized it as a classical language. This prestigious status is expected to usher in numerous benefits aimed at promoting and preserving Bengali heritage.


As part of this recognition, two international awards will now be conferred upon experts in the Bengali language, highlighting its literary richness and cultural significance. Furthermore, the Ministry of Human Resource Development plans to establish a Center for Excellence dedicated to Bengali language studies, ensuring that every central university will incorporate and promote Bengali as part of its curriculum.

In addition to Bengali, other languages such as Prakrit, Assamese, Marathi, and Pali have also been awarded classical status, marking a historic moment for linguistic diversity in India.

For years, advocates and scholars have fought passionately for Bengali’s recognition, emphasizing the language’s vast literary contributions. Many have voiced concerns about perceived neglect by the central government, given the rich cultural tapestry woven by Bengali literature, art, and traditions. With this new acknowledgment, a fresh chapter begins for the language, promising to enhance its prominence on both national and international platforms.

In line with this recognition, the government plans to implement special initiatives aimed at preserving Bengal’s ancient artworks and writings. Digitization of historical texts is set to commence, ensuring that future generations have access to these invaluable resources. Additionally, a dedicated research center will be established to foster the practice and study of the Bengali language.

Students pursuing higher education in Bengali will be eligible for scholarships, making it more accessible for young scholars to delve into this rich linguistic heritage. To keep Bengali culture vibrant and appealing, the government intends to develop architectural landmarks that celebrate the language, attracting tourists and enriching cultural experiences.

In a bid to further bolster employment opportunities, universities will introduce specialized courses in Bengali, creating pathways for students to thrive in various fields related to language and culture. With this classical status, the future of the Bengali language looks promising, filled with opportunities for growth, preservation, and global recognition.

Ex-IPS and MLA Humayun Kabir Raises Concerns Over Festival Sentiments Amidst Ongoing Crisis

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, Kolkata: Former IPS officer and current Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir has stirred conversation on social media regarding the emotional toll of recent events overshadowing the festive season. In a poignant post, Kabir expressed, “Tilottama is not in the third year puja. Tears in the eyes of two mothers, heavy hearts. Excluding joy and new clothes.”


Kabir’s heartfelt comments reflect a personal struggle amid a backdrop of unrest, particularly concerning the RG Kar Medical College scandal. The former MLA, who represents Debra, mentioned the difficulties faced by the community, emphasizing the emotional weight he feels as a public servant. He stated, “As a public representative, the card has to be sent. Greetings are to be sent. I might do them. But there is a problem from inside this time. It’s a personal problem. When I see the boy, I remember the girl.”

His remarks come at a tumultuous time for the ruling Trinamool Congress, grappling with criticisms related to the RG Kar Medical College scandal, which has sparked widespread outrage, including protests calling for justice for a doctor allegedly involved in a murder-rape case. The Chief Minister’s recent appeal for citizens to return to the festive spirit has faced backlash, with Kabir’s comments adding to the discomfort within party ranks.

Kabir lamented, “One month has passed. Today is the 9th. Come back to the puja, I beg you. Come back to the festival.” This statement, made in the context of the Chief Minister’s earlier comments encouraging a return to celebration, has ignited fierce debates, particularly among opposition parties, who view it as tone-deaf in light of ongoing crises.

Reflecting on his personal experiences, Kabir shared the sorrow of remembering his late daughter while celebrating the festival. “My son is a doctor. The same age may have passed a little earlier. Seeing him reminds me of the girl. I remember all the time. Where it hurts to think. Buy pajama punjabi during puja. Wear dhoti. I will not buy anything now. I don’t feel good at all,” he noted, revealing the depth of his grief.

As the festival approaches, the tension between celebration and mourning looms large, with Kabir’s candid expressions highlighting the emotional complexities faced by many in the community. His words resonate as a call for reflection, urging both the public and the ruling party to acknowledge the underlying issues that challenge the spirit of celebration during this festive season.

Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited Celebrates Fourth Foundation Day at Kashipur Gun and Shell Factory

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 2, 2024, Kolkata : The Kashipur Gun and Shell Factory in Kolkata marked a momentous occasion on Tuesday, October 1, as it celebrated the fourth Foundation Day of “Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited” (AWEIL). Established on October 1, 2021, as part of the reorganization of Ordnance Factories, AWEIL was created to enhance functional autonomy, boost efficiency, and foster innovation in defense manufacturing. The company specializes in producing small and large arms for the Indian Armed Forces and domestic civilian forces, also expanding into export markets.


As one of the oldest and most prestigious industrial establishments among India’s Ordnance Factories, the Gun and Shell Factory in Kashipur holds a rich legacy, spanning over 220 years. It has been a cornerstone of excellence in defense production, contributing significantly to India’s self-reliance in arms manufacturing.

Rajesh Kumar Pandey, Executive Director of the Kashipur Gun and Shell Factory, inaugurated the celebration by lighting the ceremonial torch and raising the AWEIL flag. He, along with senior officers, engaged in “Sambad,” a meaningful discussion with employees focused on maintaining the highest standards of quality and efficiency in alignment with the vision of a “Self-reliant India.”

Pandey praised the workforce for their unwavering commitment to production and presented the prestigious Best Employee Award to an outstanding contributor. The event underscored AWEIL’s ongoing pursuit of innovation and excellence as it continues to support the nation’s defense capabilities.

Protests for Justice in Arjikar Hospital Case Echo at Ganga Ghats on Mahalaya Amid Ancestral Rituals


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 2, 2024, Kolkata : As the transition from Pitraksha to Goddess Paksha began with Tarpan rituals at the Ganga Ghats, this year’s Mahalaya saw an unusual scene. Amidst the solemnity of honoring ancestors, slogans of protest reverberated along the riverbanks, demanding justice for the victims of the R G kar Hospital case. Cries of “We want justice for Abhaya” and “Punish the culprits” broke the traditional quiet of the ghats.

The protest follows a large rally held in Kolkata on Monday evening, where thousands marched to express their outrage over the tragic events surrounding Abhaya’s death and the ongoing RG Kar case. Abhaya’s family continues to seek justice, symbolically claiming that “the demon will be slain this time,” referring to the hope of seeing those responsible punished.

Even as Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the Sribhoomi Puja, marking the official start of Bengal’s Durga Puja festivities, a section of the state remains resolute in ensuring that the protests continue alongside the celebrations. While the Chief Minister’s message focused on the return of festivity, many in Bengal are adamant that the call for justice should not be overshadowed by the joyous occasion.

Police Foil Plot to Derail Train and Loot Passengers in Gujarat, Two Arrested

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 2, 2024, Kolkata : In a dramatic turn of events, Gujarat police successfully thwarted a dangerous plot by two laborers who intended to derail a train and rob its passengers to escape crippling debt. 
The two accused, Ramesh Kanji Salia and Jayesh Nagarbhai Bawalia, have been arrested after their plan to derail the Okha Bhavnagar Express on September 25 near Kundali village, 12 km from Botar town, failed. 
 According to police reports, the suspects placed a piece of iron on the railway tracks, hoping to cause a derailment. While the train did strike the obstruction, no significant damage was caused, and a major tragedy was averted. 
Upon interrogation, the accused revealed that they had gotten the idea of derailing the train after watching videos on YouTube. Desperate to pay off their debts, they devised the scheme to loot the passengers. 
Further investigations revealed that the two had also been involved in stealing various railway components from a railway repair factory, adding to their criminal charges. 
Thanks to timely police intervention, what could have been a catastrophic incident was avoided, and the passengers’ safety was preserved. The authorities are now reviewing security protocols around rail tracks to prevent similar attempts in the future.

Tragic Death of Student in Mahalaya Road Accident Sparks Outrage and Protest in Bansdroni

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 2, 2024, Kolkata : On the morning of Mahalaya, tragedy struck in Bansdroni when a student, Soumya Sheel, was fatally hit by a speeding JCB while on his way to a coaching center. The incident, which occurred in Ward No. 113, Dinesh Nagar, sparked widespread outrage among local residents who staged a protest and blocked the road in response to the tragic death.

Eyewitnesses and locals expressed deep frustration, stating that roadwork had been ongoing for several days without proper safety measures, leaving the area dangerous for pedestrians. They allege that the JCB lost control due to speeding on the poorly maintained road, resulting in the tragic accident. Despite efforts to rescue the student and rush him to the hospital, Soumya succumbed to his injuries.

Enraged by the incident, locals vandalized the JCB involved in the accident and demanded immediate action to improve road safety. They also criticized the delayed response from the police, adding to their dissatisfaction.

Residents had reportedly been raising concerns for a long time about the poor condition of the road, which had not been addressed. The death of the young student on such an auspicious day has cast a pall over the community, fueling demands for accountability and swift action to prevent further tragedies. The police eventually arrived at the scene to control the situation, but tensions remain high as the community mourns the loss.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Inaugurates Kolkata Durga Puja, Urges for Unity and Prosperity Across Bengal

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 2, 2024, Kolkata : Bengal’s much-loved festival, Durga Puja, was officially inaugurated this year by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. She graced the inaugural events at several prominent locations, including Jodhpur Park, Chetla Agrani, Salim Pur Village, Babubagan, and the Puja celebrations of 95 villages. On the eve of Durgotsava, the Chief Minister remarked on the joyous atmosphere that now permeates the air, with the anticipation of Goddess Durga’s arrival symbolizing hope and happiness.

Expressing her heartfelt thanks to the “Jago Bangla” team for their outstanding festival edition, Banerjee extended her gratitude to readers as well. She also launched her new song album, Anjali, sharing her hope that it will resonate with the people of Bengal.

In her address, she emphasized the importance of unity, urging people from all backgrounds to come together in brotherhood during Durga Puja. She expressed her wishes for happiness, prosperity, and enlightenment for all the people of Bengal as they celebrate this sacred festival. “May these festive days light up the lives of every individual,” she said, as she extended her best wishes for a joyful Sharadiya season.

Chanditala Police Seize 4 Quintals of Banned Fireworks Ahead of Sharad Utsav

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 1, 2024, Hooghly: In a significant crackdown on illegal fireworks, the Chanditala Police Station of Hooghly District Rural Police has successfully recovered four quintals of banned sound sticks during a recent operation. This action comes just ahead of the Sharad Utsav festival, as authorities intensify efforts to curb the use of hazardous materials.


Acting on reliable intelligence, officers from Chanditala conducted a raid in the Khorasrai-Begumpur area. The operation led to the seizure of an extensive cache of prohibited materials, including 2 quintals of illegal betel, 75 kilograms of soda, 60 kilograms of sulfur, 25 kilograms of aluminum powder, and 15 kilograms of gunpowder.

Police officials confirmed that a total of 3.75 quintals of illegal fireworks and related materials were confiscated. All recovered items are slated for destruction in accordance with legal protocols, with the incineration set to take place on Tuesday.

Authorities are reminding the public of the dangers associated with the use of illegal fireworks and are urging citizens to report any suspicious activities. The Chanditala Police remain committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable festive season for the community.

Commercial Gas Cylinder Prices Rise by ₹48; Domestic Rates Remain Unchanged

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 1, 2024, New Delhi: In a recent announcement, the price of commercial gas cylinders has been increased by ₹48, effective October 1. This change comes amidst rising costs of essential goods, adding to the financial strain faced by consumers.


While the hike in commercial gas prices is significant, domestic cooking gas rates have remained stable, maintaining the price of the 14.2 kg cylinder. Prior to the Lok Sabha elections, the government had reduced prices for both domestic and commercial cylinders, providing some relief to the public. However, this relief appears to be short-lived, as the prices for commercial cooking gas have surged again.

Specifically, the price for a 19 kg commercial cylinder has risen from ₹1,802.50 to ₹1,850 in Delhi. In Mumbai, the price is now ₹1,692, while in Chennai, it stands at ₹1,903. This upward trend in commercial gas prices is concerning, especially as inflation affects daily necessities.

As the government faces scrutiny over the rising cost of living, consumers continue to feel the pinch. The unchanged domestic rates may provide a temporary reprieve for households, but many remain anxious about potential future increases. With the elections approaching, the stability of gas prices will likely remain a crucial issue for the electorate.

West Bengal Government Urges Hill Tea Gardens to Pay 16% Bonus to Workers

West Bengal government urges hill tea gardens to pay a 16% bonus to workers for fiscal 2023-24, aligning with the Dooars and Terai regions’ decision. The move aims to maintain parity and prevent labor unrest.
PTI, Kolkata, Oct 1, 2024 :  The West Bengal government’s Labour department on Tuesday issued an advisory to disburse bonus to workers of tea gardens of Darjeeling, Kurseong and Kalimpong at 16 per cent for the fiscal 2023-24.

The government said this advisory has been issued to maintain parity throughout the tea industry in West Bengal as the gardens of Dooars and Terai regions of North Bengal have decided to pay bonus at 16 per cent for the last financial year.

In the advisory, the state government said that while the tea gardens of the hills had earlier agreed to pay bonus to the workers at 8.33 per cent as per the Bonus Act of 1965 after a series of meetings held between management, trade unions, and the government at tripartite level considering the severe financial stress faced by the gardens, labour unrest ensued in North Bengal as the workers were not ready to settle for bonus at less than 20 per cent.

Subsequently, the management of the gardens agreed to pay bonus at 13 per cent but the unions stuck to their demand of 20 per cent resulting in a deadlock.

According to the government, an industry-wide settlement has been already made to pay bonus at 16 per cent in North Bengal, disbursement of the same has started in full swing there.

While the Durga Puja and Dussehra festivals are very near, it has become urgent and necessary that the bonus payment to the workers of North Bengal gardens should start without any further delay by the management.

The government said that workers and their families should not be deprived owing to the impasse. The government also urged the management and the trade unions to ensure industrial peace and harmony.

Regarding financially stressed gardens, the rate of bonus may be decided at a bipartite level agreed upon by the management and trade unions.

The government also said that the bonus payout should be disbursed within October four.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday had refused to intervene in the ongoing impasse over payment of bonus to tea garden workers of Darjeeling hills.

She alleged that the deadlock was the result of political disturbances. 
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