SC refuses to direct EC to upload voter turnout data amid LS polls, says ‘hands-off approach’ needed

The bench said it would be difficult for the poll panel to mobilise manpower for uploading the voter turnout data on its website.

PTI,  24.05.24 : The Supreme Court on Friday refused an NGO’s plea to issue the Election Commission directions to upload polling station-wise voter turnout data on its website during the Lok Sabha polls, saying a “hands-off approach” needs to be adopted during the elections.

A vacation bench of Justices Dipankar Datta and Satish Chandra Sharma said it cannot issue any such directions at the moment as five phases of polling have concluded and two remain and it would be difficult for the poll panel to mobilise manpower.

The top court adjourned the interlocutory application (IA) filed by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) to be listed before the regular bench after the elections and pointed out that prima facie it appears the prayers in the application are similar to the main petition pending since 2019 on the issue.

“This (IA) has to be taken with the pending writ petition because in between the elections, a hands-off approach has to be adopted,” it said and pointed out that it would be difficult for the EC to mobilise manpower for uploading the voter turnout data on its website.

“Granting any relief in IA will amount to granting relief in the main petition which is pending,” the bench said.

It said it needs to understand the ground reality and not overburden the poll panel by changing the process midway.

On May 17, the top court had sought within a week the EC’s response on the NGO’s plea seeking a direction to upload polling station-wise voter turnout data on its website within 48 hours of the conclusion of polling for each phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

The ADR has filed an interim application in its 2019 PIL seeking directions to the poll panel that “scanned legible copies of Form 17C Part-I (Account of Votes Recorded)” of all polling stations be uploaded immediately after the polls.

In its affidavit, the poll panel opposed the NGO’s demand, stating that it will “vitiate” the electoral space and cause “chaos” in the poll machinery in the midst of the general elections.

The poll panel has said that there is no legal mandate to provide Form 17C to any person other than the candidate or his agent.

It has said that public posting of Form 17C — which gives the number of votes polled in a polling station — is not provided in the statutory framework and could lead to mischief and vitiation of the entire electoral space as it increases the possibility of the images being morphed.

“The petitioner is trying to create an entitlement when none exists in the law by way of filing an application in the middle of the election period. It is respectfully reiterated that for credible multiple practical reasons, the result as per the statutory mandate, is declared on the basis of the data contained in Form 17C at the time as prescribed under the statutory rule regime in existence,” it said.

It further said that “indiscriminate disclosure” of polling station-wise voter turnout data and posting it on a website will cause chaos in the election machinery which is already in motion for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Manipur Violence: Can’t go by sentiments, says Supreme Court; declines contempt petition

The top court was hearing a petition claiming the respondents had committed contempt of its September 25 last year order on protecting the properties of those displaced during the ethnic conflict

PTI, New Delhi, 24.05.24 : The Supreme Court said on Friday it cannot go by sentiments and has to act in accordance with law, as it refused to entertain a petition seeking contempt action for alleged non-compliance with the apex court’s order on protection of properties of people displaced during the Manipur violence.

A vacation bench of Justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal said it was not satisfied with the contention that a case of contempt was made out against the respondents, including the chief secretary of Manipur, and the petitioners can take recourse to remedy which may be available under the law.
Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for Manipur, told the bench that no case of contempt was made out, and the state government and the Centre were on the ground doing everything they can to assuage public concerns.

“The effort is to keep the pot boiling which is very unfortunate,” Bhati said, adding that the state was duty bound to protect all and can file an updated status report on the issue.

The top court was hearing a petition claiming the respondents had committed contempt of its September 25 last year order on protecting the properties of those displaced during the ethnic conflict.

“Who according to you are in contempt?” the bench asked the petitioner’s counsel who said the chief secretary and others are.

“They are not the encroachers,” the bench shot back.

When the advocate said the petitioners are living outside Manipur and are not in a position to go anywhere near Imphal, the bench said, “That does not mean that notice be issued against chief secretary”.

Bhati referred to the September 25 last year order which said the state of Manipur and the Centre are given one week to respond to the directions, including on ensuring protection of properties of displaced persons and preventing their encroachment.

“We had filed a status report. We can file an updated status report,” she said, adding the state was duty bound to protect its citizens and their properties.

“Manipur is still in a situation of uneasy calm as we speak. There are conflicting views and the state and central government are trying to assuage everyone,” Bhati said. When the counsel for the petitioners claimed that their properties have been looted in the presence of police and they can place those videos before the court, the law officer objected to it and said wild allegations were being made.

“They (authorities) are duty bound to protect the properties. They are duty bound to carry out the orders of this court and the government. No doubt about it,” the bench said.

Observing that no contempt was made out against the chief secretary and the other respondents, the bench observed, “Don’t pressure the officers like this”.

It said the petitioners may file appropriate proceedings as permissible under the law.

“All sympathies for you. Your properties need to be protected but that does not mean that we have to issue contempt notice to the respondents.,” the bench said.

When the petitioners’ lawyer said, “Your lordships may kindly see the message that goes out today…”, the bench observed, “We have to go as per the law. We cannot go by sentiments.” The bench said it was not satisfied with the claim that contempt proceedings were maintainable against the respondents in connection with the September 25, 2023 order.

“It is needless to say that petitioners shall be at liberty to take recourse to the remedy as may be available under the law if they are aggrieved by any other action or inaction on the part of the respondents,” it said.

Manipur descended into chaos and violence in May last year over a high court order directing the state government to consider including the non-tribal Meitei community in the list of Scheduled Tribes.

More than 170 people have been killed and several hundred others injured since ethnic violence first broke out in the state on May 3 last year when a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organised in hill districts to protest against the majority Meitei community’s demand for ST status.

Bangladeshi MP’s friend paid money for murder: Police


The Bangladeshi MP Anwarul Azim Anar’s close friend, who is a US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to kill the former, according to preliminary investigation in connection with his murder.

SNS | Kolkata | May 24, 2024 : The Bangladeshi MP Anwarul Azim Anar’s close friend, who is a US citizen, had paid around Rs 5 crore to kill the former, according to preliminary investigation in connection with his murder.


Mr Anar, Awami League MP of Jhinaidah-4 constituency in Bangladesh, had been missing in Kolkata since 13 May and was found murdered in the New Town area.

On Wednesday, Bangladesh home minister Asaduzzaman Khan had said that Mr Anar was found murdered and three people have been arrested.

The deceased MP’s friend, who is probably in the US at present, owns a luxurious flat in the New Town area, according to sources in the West Bengal CID.

Sources in the CID probing the incident of alleged murder of the Bangladeshi MP also said that the flat in the New Town area, where the Bangladesh MP was last seen entering, was rented to his friend by its owner, reportedly an excise department employee.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that it was a well-planned murder. A huge amount of money, around Rs 5 crore was paid by an old friend of the MP to kill him. Investigations are still on to find out the exact reasons behind the incident,” an officer of the CID said.

“We have ‘reliable inputs’ that Anar may have been murdered but his body is yet to be recovered,” he said requesting anonymity.

Asked whether the investigating team found blood stains in the New Town flat where the MP’s whereabouts were last traced on 13 May. The officer said, “Our forensic team is exploring all angles and examining the suspected crime scene also. It’s too early to speak about that.”

It’s learnt that the state CID has spotted blood stains inside the flat and also recovered several plastic bags, which they believe were used to dump the body parts.

Circumstantial evidence indicates that the MP was first strangulated and then his body was mutilated in several parts, police claimed.

The search for the missing MP, who reportedly arrived in Kolkata on 12 May to undergo treatment, began six days later after Gopal Biswas, a resident of Baranagar area and an acquaintance of the Bangladeshi politician, filed a complaint with the local police station on 18 May.

Anar had stayed at Biswas’s house upon arrival. According to the complainant, Anar left his Baranagar residence for a doctor’s appointment in the afternoon of 13 May and he was scheduled to come back home for dinner. 

Inclusivity and safety top mission: HMI scales new heights in mountaineering coaching

 The institute started a campaign to encourage the physically-challenged people to join mountaineering
Uday Kumar with Gp Capt JaiKishan at the summit of Mt Renok: Picture courtesy: HMI

Bitan Sikdar, Darjeeling, 24.05.24 : As the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) approaches its 70th anniversary in a few months, it is not only about scaling new heights in excellence but also about fostering inclusivity.

The institute started a campaign to encourage the physically-challenged people to join mountaineering.
One 36-year-old Uday Kumar from Calcutta, who had lost his left leg in a 2015 railway accident, climbed Mt. Renok at 16,500 feet in the Khangchendzonga National Park in March — with the support of HMI instructors. The expedition was led by Gp. Capt. JaiKishan, the principal of the HMI, and Kumar’s training and expenditure were sponsored by the HMI.

“Uday sustained all weights with his hands and negotiated the difficult terrains all along. We want to say if he can do it, anybody can do it. Adventure sports are for the divyangjan,” he said.

Currently, the institute has around 150 students in the mountains, with a special focus on encouraging women climbers.

One notable example is Neha Rai from Sikkim, who previously worked as a guide over there.

The HMI is also focussing on mountaineering education and safety.

For example, it has introduced lightweight equipment such as chest crawl, kong stretcher, the avalanche victim detector and some other equipment.

The avalanche victim detector (AVD) is also known as an avalanche transceiver. These are small, compact radios used to identify avalanche burial sites and they transmit electromagnetic signals that are picked up by another transceiver on the receive mode.

The AVD works in two modes — receiving and transmit or search mode, explained a trainee, Julian.

Similarly, a kong stretcher is made of durable and lightweight materials. With its help, it becomes easier for rescuers to act promptly in emergencies. This helps in secure and stable transport across difficult terrains — steep slopes or rocky surfaces.

It can be easily folded or strapped, facilitating rescuers to carry this without adding much weight to their load, she explained.

“With the help of these tools, it is now possible for a small rescue team of mountaineers to conduct a big rescue operation in high-altitude mountains,” said Rohit Sanga, another trainee at this institute.

Writers workshop on creative writing held in Kalimpong

Kalimnews, Kalimpong, 23 May 2024: People have lost interest in reading and writing, so to rekindle the love for the both and generate interest in reading and writing and sharpening their writing skills, a one-day creative writing workshop was organized at the Worship Center in Kalimpong.

Organized jointly by Kalimpong Christian Library and Himali Upasana Isai Kala Sarakshan Samity (Upasana Production), the workshop was held today in which training was imparted on creative writing and translation along with writing essays, articles, poetries and short stories.

70 young and old people participated in this workshop and according to the members of the workshop organizing committee, such a large number of participants was very much encouraging for smaller organisations.

In the workshop, the resource persons trained the participants by explaining about the important and essential points which initiates the art of writing, develops it and even could make it possible to pursue it as a profession. Rev. Solon Karthak, the well-known travelogue author and writer gave detailed information from his experiences during his delivery of keynote address on reading and creative writing.

In response to the growing disinterest in reading and writing, a one-day creative writing workshop was organized at the Worship Center in Kalimpong. The workshop aimed to rekindle a passion for reading and writing and to enhance participants’ writing skills. It was a joint effort by the Kalimpong Christian Library and Himali Upasana Isai Kala Sarakshan Samity (Upasana Production).

The workshop included training sessions on creative writing, translation, and composing essays, articles, poetry, and short stories. A total of 70 participants, both young and old, attended, which was a highly encouraging turnout for the organizing committee, indicating a strong community interest in such initiatives.

Resource persons provided essential guidance on initiating and developing writing skills, with a focus on the potential for writing as a professional pursuit. Rev. Solon Karthak, a well-known travelogue author and writer, delivered the keynote address. He shared his extensive experiences, offering detailed insights into the art of reading and creative writing, which inspired and informed the participants.

This workshop highlights the community’s effort to promote literacy and creative expression, ensuring that the love for reading and writing continues to thrive across generations.

In an effort to reignite interest in reading and writing, a one-day creative writing workshop was held at the Worship Center in Kalimpong. Organized by the Kalimpong Christian Library and Himali Upasana Isai Kala Sarakshan Samity (Upasana Production), the event focused on various forms of writing, including articles, essays, short stories, poetry, and translation.

Prominent figures in the literary field shared their expertise: Dr. Anjana Rai spoke on writing articles and essays, Elder Raju Rai, an editor and writer, provided insights into writing short stories, Ujjwal Prakash Bomjan, a poet and lyricist, explained the art of writing poetry. Dr. Abrona Lee Pandi from the English Department of Sikkim University discussed creative writing and translation skills.


To apply the skills learned, participants engaged in a writing competition in English and Nepali across four genres: essay, short story, poetry, and translation. Winners received book prizes, and all participants were awarded certificates. The winners included: Essay Writing: Edwin Rezom Aden (English) and Sunita Lama (Nepali)
Short Story Writing: Sharon Shreya Rai (English) and Tabita Sarki (Nepali), Poetry: Legain Phipon (English) and Grace Pakhrin Pulami (Nepali), Translation: Ananya Bomjan (English) and Nurzong Lepcha (Nepali).


The workshop was conducted by Asst. Professor Anukampa Subba, Head of the English Department at Kalimpong College, and began with a welcome address by Rev. J.S. Caleb Subba and a prayer by President Rev. Ruel Pakhrin. The event concluded with the announcement of winners by Jeenat Mary Lepcha and a thanksgiving by Rev. Lochan Kabo.

During the workshop, KCL secretary Yangden S. Ghising discussed the Kalimpong Christian Library, and film director Gyan Gurung shared information about an upcoming film by Himali Upasana Isai Kala Sankarsan Samiti (Upasana Production). Participants found the workshop effective and encouraging, contributing significantly to their writing skills and creative development..

कालेबुंगमा एक दिने सृजनात्मक लेखन कार्यशाला सम्पन्न

कालिमन्युज, कालेबुंग, २३ मई २०२४ : वर्तमान समयमा सर्वत्र पठन र लेखनमा चासो राख्नेहरुको संख्या दिनोदिन कम भैरहेको समय यसमा चासो जगाउने र पाठक अनि लेखक जन्माउन अनि उनीहरुमा लेखना कला भए तिखार्ने उद्धेश्यले कालेबुंगको वर्शिप सेन्टरमा एक दिने सृजनात्मक लेखन कार्यशाला आयोजना भयो |

कालेबुंग क्रिश्चियन लाइब्रेरी अनि हिमाली उपासना इसाई कला संरक्षण समिति (उपासना प्रोडक्सन) को संयुक्त आयोजनामा उक्त कार्यशाला आज सम्पन्न भयो जसमा गद्य, कविता, लघु कथा लेखन संगसंगै सृजनात्मक लेखन र अनुवाद बारे तालिम दिइएको थियो |   
यस कार्यशालामा ७० जना सहभागीहरुले भाग लिएका थिए  l यति ठुलो संख्यामा सहभागीहरुले भाग लिनु सम्भवत यस भेकको निम्ति प्रथम चोटि हुन सक्ने कार्यशाला आयोजक समितद्वयका ससस्यहरुले बताए   |
कार्यशालामा स्रोत व्यक्तिहरुले कसरी लेखन कलालाई जन्म दिने, विकाश गर्ने र यसलाई पेशा पनि बनाउने भन्नेबारे खुबै मुख्य र अति आवश्यकीय कुराहरु बताउदै तालिम दिए | श्रोत व्यक्तिहरुमध्ये चर्चित नियात्राका लेखक साहित्यकार रेभ सलोन कार्थकले सृजनात्मक पठन र लेखनको महत्वबारे आफ्नो अनुभवहरूबाट विस्तृत जानकारी गराउदै केही मुख्य बुँदाहरुको विषयमा व्याखा गरे |
गद्य लेखनबारे लेखक डा. श्रीमती अञ्जना राईले जानकारी गराए भने लघु कथा लेखनबारे सम्पादक एवं लेखक एल्डर राजु राईले साथै कवि औ गीतकार श्री उज्जवल बम्जनले कविता रचनाबारे तालिम दिए | 
सिक्किम युनिभर्सीटीको  अंग्रेजी विभागबाट आएका डा. अब्रोना ली पन्दीले सृजनात्मकता र अनुवाद साहित्यबारे बडो रोचक ढंगमा जानकारी गराए  |
सहभागीहरुले कार्यशालाको समय सिकेका कुराहरु र आफ्नो दक्षता अनुसार अभ्यासको निम्ति चारै विधा गद्य, लघु कथा, कविता अनि अनुवाद मा सहभागीहरुलाई अंग्रेजी र नेपाली दुवै भाषामा लेखन प्रतियोगिता गराइयो | प्रतियोगीहरुको मुल्यांकन श्रोत व्यक्तिहरुले गरे अनुसार सर्वश्रेष्ठ अनि उत्कृष्ट लेखनलाई प्रोत्साहन पुरस्कार प्रदान अनि सबै सहभागीहरुलाई प्रमाण पत्र वितरण गरियो |    
पुरस्कारहरुमा अग्रेजी भाषामा निबन्ध लेखनको निम्ति एडविन रेजोम आदेनलाई र नेपाली भाषामा निबन्ध लेखनको निम्ति सुनिता लामालाई सर्वश्रेष्ठ चयन गरियो भने अग्रेजी भाषामा लघु कथा लेखनको निम्ति स्यारोन श्रेया राईलाई र नेपाली भाषामा लघु कथा लेखनको निम्ति तबिता सार्कीलाई पुरष्कृत गरियो | अग्रेजी भाषामा कविता रचनाको निम्ति लिगेन फिपनलाई र नेपाली भाषामा कविता रचनाको निम्ति ग्रेस पाख्रीनलाई पुरष्कृत गरियो | उसरीनै अनुवादको निम्ति अग्रेजी भाषामा अनन्य बम्जनलाई र नेपाली भाषामा नर्जोङ लेप्चालाई पुरष्कृत गरियो । कार्यशाला खुबै प्रभावकारी अनि प्रोत्साहनात्मक भएको सहभागीहरुले जनाए |
कालेबुङ कलेजका अंग्रेजी विभागका एचओडी प्राध्यापक अनुकम्पा सुब्बाले संचालन गरेको कार्याशाला रेभ. जे.एस. कालेब सुब्बाको स्वागत सम्बोधन अनि अध्यक्ष रेभ. रुएल पाख्रिनको प्रार्थनाद्वारा आरम्भ भएको अनि जीनत मेरी लेप्चाद्वारा विजेताहरुको घोषणा र रेभ लोचन काबोद्वारा धन्यबाद ज्ञापन गरिएको थियो | कार्यशाला कै समय कालिम्पोङ क्रिश्चियन लाइब्रेरीबारे केसीएलका सचिव याङ्देन एस घिसिङले जनाए भने, फिल्म निर्देशक ज्ञान गुरुङले हिमाली उपासना इसाई कला संरक्षण समिति (उपासना प्रोडक्सन) को आगामी फिल्म बारे अवगत गराए |  

North Bengal-based online platform launches three new travel shows to boost homestays

 Homestaying.in, a north Bengal-based online platform which connects around 500 homestays in the hills and plains, has taken the initiative to offer accommodations which suit the requirements of tourists
A grab of the video released by homestaying.in shows Manpreet Kaur, a yoga instructor, performing a yoga session at a homestay in  the Darjeeling hills.: The Telegraph

Binita Paul, TT, Siliguri, 24.05.24 : A website dedicated to homestays in north Bengal has launched three new travel shows on its YouTube channel to draw more tourists to the region.

Homestaying.in, a north Bengal-based online platform which connects around 500 homestays in the hills and plains, has taken the initiative to offer accommodations which suit the requirements of tourists.

“We have released three new travel shows on our official YouTube channel. The idea is to popularise the local homestays and promote the tourism industry in north Bengal. The shows will feature three distinct hosts, taking the viewers for a travelling experience throughout the region,” said Prabhakar Thapa, the founder of homestaying.in.

He said the travel hosts were from different walks of life and would promote various homestays and travel destinations, particularly from the hilly region.

Among them, Priyanka Chakraborty is a travel content creator, Manpreet Kaur is a yoga instructor and Jigme Singh is a hotelier.

The travel shows, Thapa said, will have weekly episodes and have been introduced while keeping in mind the exponential growth of homestays.

Priyanka, who will run a show called ‘The Modern Traveller,’ will guide tourists to find popular tourist destinations, covering the colonial architecture built by the British.

Manpreet Kaur, on the other hand, will take tourists on a spiritual retreat. “People will know how to rejuvenate themselves during a trip. There will be sessions on sound healing,” she said.

Jigme, on the other hand, will showcase the local cuisine.

“Our region has its own food platter and we will motivate every individual to venture beyond their familiar territories in cuisine,” said the travel host.

Thapa, while elaborating on their activities, said through their website, tourists can find only homestays.

“There is no option for hotels. Through our website, they can filter their requirements. We have categories like tea bungalows, high-altitude stays, hostels, B&B, and camping sites. All these are being run by the local people,” he said.

Forest dept to monitor wildcats in North Bengal post monsoon

Dibyendu Sinha, MP, 20 May 2024, Jalpaiguri: The role of different species of wildcats is crucial in maintaining the balance of forests. To understand their lifestyle and contribution better, the Forest department is set to start special monitoring of wildcat species. 

This project will commence in the protected forest areas of North Bengal after the end of the monsoon season. 
Camera traps will be installed to track the movement of these species. According to Forest department sources, various species of wildcats often resemble leopards, sometimes causing unnecessary fear among people. 
This resemblance can lead to these animals facing human wrath. For instance, a few years ago in Latapota village of Mathabhanga, a wildcat mistaken for a leopard fell victim to such an incident. 
Forest department officials note that species like the marbled cat, golden cat and leopard cat play a significant role in protecting the forest environment. Therefore, the Forest department is launching this 
initiative in collaboration with the West Bengal Zoo Authority across the protected forest areas of North Bengal. Dwijaa Pratim Sen, Divisional Forest Officer of Gorumara Wildlife Division, said: “Trap cameras will be installed in forest areas of Gorumara National Park, Chapramari, Neoravalli, as well as Jaldapara, Buxa, Central Singalila, Mahananda Sanctuary and Kurseong once the monsoon ends. 
Cameras are already installed in several places and hundreds more will be set up for this special purpose. Through these cameras, different species of wildcats, including marbled cat, leopard cat and golden cat will be monitored. 
We aim to determine the number of species present and understand how the forest balance is being maintained for these species. Detailed information will be collected about their behavior and lifestyle.” 
Recently, a multi-level meeting was held regarding this initiative, with consultations from all reserved forest authorities. The officials of the Forest department in North Bengal have also held a meeting to discuss the plan further. 
Courtesy & source- Millennium Post
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/forest-dept-to-monitor-wildcats-in-north-bengal-post-monsoon-564587

North Bengal Med Hosp takes steps to curb brokering racket

MP, 20 May 2024, Siliguri: The hospital authorities have taken an initiative to make patients and their families aware of fraud by brokers in North Bengal Medical College and Hospital (NBMCH). 
The hospital authorities will put up boards with awareness messages in this regard and contact numbers of hospital authorities will be mentioned on the boards. 
These boards will display awareness messages saying that if any broker demands any kind of money from the patient’s family, they should immediately report
matter to the officials of NBMCH. Along with this, the Rogi Sahayata Kendra (Patients help desk) and Grievance Cell have been operational round-the-clock. Patients’ families were asked to report any untoward matter to these cells as well. 
“We have made all kinds of arrangements to restrict brokering rackets inside the hospital. However, patients’ families do not inform us about the brokers and they usually come to us after they have lost their money,” said Dr Sanjay Mallick, Superintendent of NBMCH. 
He further said: “It is not possible to take action at that time which is why we request everyone to inform us immediately if any broker asks anyone for money. That will make it possible to take action in the moment.” 
A brokering racket has been going on here for many years. 
Courtesy & source- Millennium Post
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/north-bengal-med-hosp-takes-steps-to-curb-brokering-racket-564591

Main accused in Jalpaiguri child-trafficking case gets bail after 7 yrs

Dibyendu Sinha, MP, 20 May 2024, Jalpaiguri: Chandana Chakraborty, the main accused in the Jalpaiguri child-trafficking case, was granted bail after spending almost 7.5 years in jail. 

On Monday, the Circuit Bench of the Calcutta High Court in Jalpaiguri, comprising Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Ajay Kumar Gupta approved her bail plea, as stated by Sourav Ganguly, the lawyer representing the accused. It has been reported that there were three cases against Chandana Chakraborty related to the child-trafficking incident. 
In 2016, the Jalpaiguri Child Welfare Committee alleged that 17 children were illegally adopted from the Specialized Adoption Agency’s Bimala Children’s Home in Jalpaiguri, which operated under the North Bengal People’s Development Centre, Jalpaiguri. The centre was affiliated with the Central Adoption Resource Authority. Following this complaint, the CID initiated an investigation in mid-January 2017. 
Chandana Chakraborty, chairperson of the North Bengal People’s Development Centre in Jalpaiguri, was arrested in February 2017. Sonali Mondal, Jalpaiguri District Child Protection Officer Sushmita Ghosh, Darjeeling District Child Protection Officer Mrinal Ghosh, and Chandana Chakraborty’s brother, Manas Bhowmik, were arrested. 
Sourav Ganguly, Chandana Chakraborty’s lawyer, stated: “Among the 7 accused in this case, 4 have already been granted bail. Besides Chandana, Mrinal Ghosh and Sonali Mondal are currently in jail custody. 
Last November, the Supreme Court rejected Mrinal Ghosh’s bail plea and ordered the case to be completed within 6 months without extension. However, it appears that the trial was ongoing in the trial court even after the stipulated period. 
The bail was granted only after raising these issues.” Nilay Chakraborty, assistant public prosecutor of the circuit bench, said: “There was a Supreme Court order in this case and the testimony of most of the 73 witnesses has been accepted. Hence, the division bench granted bail.” 
Courtesy & source- Millennium Post
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/main-accused-in-jalpaiguri-child-trafficking-case-gets-bail-after-7-yrs-564593

Following HC order, TMC accuses ECI of ‘batting for BJP’

MP, 20 May 2024, Kolkata: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday criticised the Election Commission of India (ECI) accusing it of “batting for the ruling party. 

The Calcutta High Court on Monday restrained the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from publishing any kind of derogatory advertisements against the Trinamool Congress (TMC) till further orders. 
TMC’s Rajya Sabha MP Saket Gokhale wrote on X: “ECI’s conduct throughout this election has been shameful. 
At every given opportunity, rules have been bent to favour Modi & BJP. Now even Calcutta HC has strongly rebuked the ECI for failing to take action on BJP’s fake & disparaging ads about @AITCofficial. The Hon’ble court has also restrained BJP & banned the ads. 
This is an election where the ECI openly bats for the ruling party.” Trinamool leader Chandrima Bhattacharya said: “There was an ad of BJP published a few days back in newspapers. 
A media house went to High Court and complained in a writ petition under Article 226 of the Constitution. Important order was passed by the court saying these ads should not have been published in newspapers because they are derogatory and have violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in spirit and letter. 
This should not have happened. ECI should have taken a significant step in this regard. It showed how BJP can stoop to any level.” 
TMC leader Mahua Moitra wrote on X: “Official twitter handle of@ECISVEEP should be changed to ECISLEEP.” 
Earlier, Moitra had accused the Election Commission (EC) of acting with bias for BJP since it is allegedly not taking action against the communal speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi or his party leaders. 
Moitra had pointed out: “We know that it is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct when a candidate uses communal speeches to polarise the electorate. However, the Election Commission as an independent body seems to be turning a blind eye and not taking any action”. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/following-hc-order-tmc-accuses-eci-of-batting-for-bjp-564616

Will PM Modi take action against ‘corrupt’ BJP leaders, asks TMC

Soumyadip Mullick, MP, 20 May 2024, Kolkata: In the wake of the alleged recovery of unaccounted cash from two BJP leaders in two separate incidents, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) questioned whether PM Modi, who vociferously champions the fight against corruption, will take any decisive action against his party leaders. 

On Monday, Abhishek Banerjee wrote on X: “On Stage: Na Khaunga Na Khane Doonga. Off Stage: Kaala Paisa Jamaunga Aur Jamaane Doonga! Will PM @narendramodi stick to his words and take action against BJP leader Samit Mandal, caught with unaccounted cash worth ₹35 lakhs right after the PM’s meeting in Kharagpur yesterday?” 
He further wrote: “Yesterday, BJP leader Samit Mondal, who was on the dais at PM Modi’s meeting, was caught red-handed by district police with ₹35 lakh unaccounted cash. Today, the ECI has transferred the SP of the same district. 
This is Modi’s guarantee: SAFE HAVEN FOR RAPISTS AND THE CORRUPT!” On Sunday night, TMC shared on social media that the district police seized Rs 35 lakh “unaccounted” cash from a BJP man identified as Samit Mondal, a close confidante of party candidate Agnimitra Paul. 
TMC wrote on X: “Irony died a thousand deaths! On the same stage from which PM @narendramodi made this grand statement against corruption, stood BJP leader and @paulagnimitra1’s close aide, Samit Mandal, from whom the Dist. Police seized over Rs. 35 lakh of unaccounted cash. ‘
Khaunga bhi, aur khane bhi dunga [as long as you’re in the BJP]’ seems to be the real mantra of our PM Modi – the self-proclaimed crusader against corruption.” On Monday, Trinamool further alleged that unaccounted cash and firearms were seized from another BJP leader in Hooghly. 
’ It wrote on X: “First Medinipur, now Hooghly – BJP’s corruption trail is spreading like wildfire. Rs. 35 lakh of undocumented cash was seized from BJP leader Samit Mandal at a Kharagpur hotel. If that weren’t enough, another BJP leader was nabbed in Hooghly with Rs. 2 lakh of unaccounted cash and unlicensed firearms. 
All this is unfolding while PM Modi is gallivanting across Bengal, preaching against corruption. The hypocrisy!” Trinamool leader Chandrima Bhattacharya told the media that the BJP needs to answer what their leader was doing with so much unaccounted cash. 
She said it was clear that this cash was meant for election purposes as Midnapore seat polls are due. She said it is not just a coincidence that the cash was recovered from a person close to BJP’s Midnapore seat candidate Agnimitra Paul. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/will-pm-modi-take-action-against-corrupt-bjp-leaders-asks-tmc-564621

‘Start with UG admission process for academic year 2024-25 soon’

MP, 20 May 2024, Kolkata: The All Bengal Principals’ Council urged the Higher Education department to commence the admissions for undergraduate courses for the academic year 2024-25 in state colleges as soon as all the private and government aided Minority colleges in the state have already opened their admission portal. 

The Council fears that if the admissions are not started sooner, the government colleges will lag behind. 
“In the last academic session 2023-24, Higher Education department took late decision for opening the admission portal which resulted in scarcity of students, especially in science and arts streams,” the Council in their letter stated, while adding that more than 75 per cent seats were lying vacant for the mentioned streams. 
With regards to the centralised portal, they urged the department principal secretary to give clearance for colleges to start admission using a standalone portal like last year if the uncertainty over the portal’s introduction still looms. 
Admissions under the centralised admission portal for undergraduate courses may start after Lok Sabha polls, a Higher Education official said. The last phase poll in the state is going to take place on June 1 and counting will take place on June 4. 
Through a centralised platform, a student will be able to apply to various colleges under the state just by logging into a single portal instead of going to individual institutions. 
The centralised online admission portal for UG will be used in all government-aided colleges, unitary universities and state-aided affiliating universities, excluding autonomous colleges, minority educational institutions or colleges, training colleges and law colleges. 
The Higher Secondary result was published on May 8. The successful candidates have started preparing for entrance examinations and applying for different colleges. 
Even though few colleges under the ones which will be excluded from centralised portal like Scottish Church College have opened their standalone portal to start the admission procedure. 
However, many colleges under Calcutta University are awaiting notice from the Higher Education department as to when the admission process through the centralised portal will start. 
According to a college principal, the testing of the centralised portal was successfully conducted and data was collected from them. Although no communication has been made either by the department or Calcutta University as to when the admission process can be started. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/start-with-ug-admission-process-for-academic-year-2024-25-soon-564622

Higher Secondary Council trying to rope in college teachers in ‘cluster model’

SOUMITRA NANDI, MP, 20 May 2024, Kolkata: The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) has decided to involve college teachers in a ‘cluster model’ for teaching students at the higher secondary level in the backdrop of acute scarcity of teachers in various subjects. 

The Council has already got the nod of the state Higher Education department in this regard. 
“We are encouraging cluster models for the benefit of students in the higher secondary level. If a particular school suffers from lack of teachers in a particular subject, teachers from a neighbouring school can be roped in for teaching the subject concerned in a cluster model. 
We have also made plans to rope in college teachers for addressing the same issue. However, the concerned teacher should be a permanent teacher,” said Chiranjib Bhattacharjee, president of WBCHSE. 
The concerned teacher can go to the neighbouring school for taking classes or students of three-four schools can be brought together 
in a common venue for the subject teacher to take classes. The same will be applicable for college teachers who will join this model. 
According to sources in the Council, the dearth of teachers in various subjects has turned so precarious that secondary teachers of a particular subject have to teach the same subject at the higher secondary level. 
In remote areas, even part time teachers are being roped in for plugging the gap. The Council is hopeful that the cluster concept will streamline this issue of teacher paucity to a reasonable extent. 
A Council official attributed this to the recruitment process remaining stalled for more than five years due to legal logjam and retirement of teachers every year in due course with attainment of age limit. 
The Council has introduced the semester system that will come into effect from 2024-25 for the students of class XI, while for class XII, it will be effective from 2025-26. 
The Council has introduced courses in data science, artificial intelligence, cyber security, science of well-being and application of artificial intelligence in recent times to make the plus-II curriculum up to date. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/higher-secondary-council-trying-to-rope-in-college-teachers-in-cluster-model-564626

Three Raj Bhavan staff summoned by police seek more time

MP, 20 May 2024, Kolkata: Three Raj Bhavan staff, who were summoned by the police in connection with the probe relating to a case where a woman had accused the Governor C V Ananda Bose of sexual harassment, is learnt to have sought more time from the police. 

It was reportedly learnt that the complainant had alleged that the three staff had kept her confined within the Raj Bhavan premises. 
The police had hence summoned all three of them at the Hare Street Police Station on Sunday. However, none of them appeared at the station. The police have again summoned them on Tuesday but it has now come to light that the staff members have sought more time for appearance. 
Sources said that the police do not want to give them more time, especially when they were summoned three times and each time they failed to appear. It was learnt that the police, if needed, may consider the arrest of these three staff. 
It reportedly came to light that one among the three staff, S S Rajput has informed that he is out of station and has sought time for 10 days along with the copy of an FIR from the police. The other two have sought seven days-time and a copy of the same. 
It was learnt that apart from these three, the police have also summoned four others and have sent notices under Section 160 of the CrPC. The summon list also includes the supervisor of the complainant who was contractual staff at Raj Bhavan. 
The complainant is also learnt to have recorded her statement with the magistrate. She has alleged that the day she was sexually harassed, she was restrained from egressing Raj Bhavan. 
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/three-raj-bhavan-staff-summoned-by-police-seek-more-time-564627

Norden and Anuj of Jaldhaka reaches Kedarnath after running for 40 days.

KalimNews, Kalimpong, 21 May 2024 : Dreams of Norden and Anuj came true when they finally reached Kedarnath in the midnight of the 40th day of their run and after 43 days of their start. They had to take rest for three days during their run. 

The two youths of Jaldhaka, 27 years old Norden Tamang and 23 years old Anuj Sharma could not run but walk on their last day before reaching Kedarnath due to the huge crowd of devotees on their way of pilgrimage and heavy rain. 
They almost had to crawl due to the slippery road and the crowd of men and women and mules carrying the old and the sick. On the last lap they were accompanied by the members of the Jaldhaka Runners and others of their native place. 
After walking for about 16 hours on May 20, at midnight 12.00 am they stepped into the famous temple of Kedarnath Dham and cried with joy and cheers. They made some puja rituals to the Gods of their dream and rested for the night. 
They had started their expedition from Jholung of Jaldhaka under Kalimpong District of the West Bengal state on 8 April, 2024 and finished it after 43 days.
Their route was through Chalsa, Siliguri and via Pani Tanki they entered into Nepal. Their run continued from Kakarbhitta via Birtamode, Hetauda, Kailali, Bardiya, Mahendranagar and entered into Uttarkhand. In Uttarkhand they ran via Bhimtal, Karnaprayag, Rudraprayag, Guptkashi, Gaurikund and finally to Kedarnath.
A run of about 1750 km was completed by both Norden and Anuj though Anuj suffered heel and Norden had knee problem, it was not an obstacle and they didnot stop. Gopal Gurung, manager of Jaldhaka Runners has expressed gratitude to all the well wishers, contributors and those who encouraged the team through various means. 
The team were received warmly by people of all walks of life including the defence and police forces and various clubs and associations in Nepal and India. 
With a message “Stride towards wellness” and “Run for Health” both Anuj and Norden ran the run to encourage all especially the youths for a better healthy life through running. The significance of running in making small changes in our lifestyle, can take strides towards a healthier and happier life. They said in unison that everything is possible in life for everyone with determination and a definite goal. 
Though they had less experience in the marathon and long run but that minimum experience helped them a lot in the long run and the whole expedition.  

Thunderstorms likely in next 48 hours: MeT

20 May 2024 11:51 PM Kolkata: The Regional Meteorological Centre in Alipore on Monday predicted thunderstorms and lightning in several South Bengal districts in the next 48 hours. 
Several districts received moderate to heavy rainfall on Monday afternoon as the fifth phase of Lok Sabha polls occurred in a few districts. 
People in South Bengal may witness hot and sultry weather till the afternoon hours while thunderstorms may happen in the afternoon hours. Kolkata and several South Bengal districts received rainfall on Monday afternoon. 
People in South Bengal may also witness a similar weather where several parts may receive rains and thunderstorms accompanied with strong breeze measuring 40-60 kmph. The situation may continue till Wednesday. 
Several North Bengal districts received heavy rainfall on Monday. The intensity of rainfall will decrease in South Bengal in the next 24 hours. 
Kolkata on Monday registered its lowest temperature of the day at 29.5 degree Celsius while the highest temperature was recorded at 36.6 degree Celsius on Sunday. 
People in the western districts may undergo heatwave conditions towards the end of the week. 
The MeT office had earlier predicted that some of South Bengal districts, including Kolkata, might receive rainfall on the day of fifth phase election on May 20. 
Several south Bengal districts like Birbhum, East Burdwan, Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram, West Midnapore may receive light rainfall. 
According to the MeT office prediction, heatwave is again going to haunt the people in some of the South Bengal districts with the mercury expected to go up by 3-4 degree Celsius towards the end of the week. 
The MeT office said that the weather will mostly stay dry. Some of the North Bengal districts may receive rainfall in the next few days. 
Though, there may be scattered rainfall in some pockets in the coastal regions as well. 
Many of the South Bengal districts may witness the highest temperature at 40 degree Celsius soon. Kolkata is expected to touch 38 degree Celsius in the weekend while the western districts may touch 42. 
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the southwest monsoon is likely to advance into the South Andaman Sea region by the end of this week. 
If realised, this would make a timely onset of the monsoon over Southeast Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood areas. 
Courtesy & source- Millennium Post
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/thunderstorms-likely-in-next-48-hours-met-564630
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