Category Archives: National

National

Tragedy Strikes Mumbai as Seven Family Members Perish in Devastating Fire

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 6, 2024, Kolkata : In a heartbreaking incident early Sunday morning, seven members of the same family tragically lost their lives in a devastating fire that engulfed their home in Siddhant Colony, Chembur East, Mumbai. Among the deceased are three children, ages 7, 10, and 15.


The fire erupted around 5:20 AM, originating from a shop on the first floor of the building, which sold electrical equipment. Fire officials believe the blaze was ignited by a short circuit, quickly spreading to the family’s living quarters on the second floor, where they were asleep at the time. Tragically, the inferno consumed their home and its contents, leaving little behind.

Local residents noticed the flames and promptly alerted the fire department, which worked tirelessly to control the situation. Despite their efforts, the Gupta family could not be saved, with all seven victims pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. The deceased have been identified as Manjuprem Gupta (30), Anita Gupta (30), Prem Gupta (30), and their elder relative, Geeta Gupta. The children lost in the fire were identified as Paris Gupta (7), Narendra Gupta (10), and 15-year-old Vidhi Chediram Gupta.

Fire officials have raised concerns regarding the building’s construction, suggesting that improper design may have contributed to the rapid spread of the flames. Fortunately, two individuals were rescued unharmed, highlighting the urgency and bravery of the firefighting efforts.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has confirmed the tragic loss, and the community is in mourning as they come to terms with this devastating event. Local leaders are calling for enhanced safety regulations to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
National, Politics

Congress Protests Central Government’s Pre-Election Nomination of Five MLAs in Jammu and Kashmir

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 6, 2024, Kolkata: As the counting of votes for the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections approaches on October 8, the Congress party has expressed fierce opposition to the central government’s decision to nominate five members to the assembly prior to the election results.


The Congress leadership has condemned this move as a direct assault on democratic principles and constitutional integrity. They have formally requested Jammu and Kashmir’s Lt. Governor, Manoj Sinha, to withhold approval for these nominations, emphasizing that such actions undermine the electorate’s mandate.

According to the stringent amendments to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act of 2019, the assembly is set to include five nominated members, with their selection to be approved by the Lt. Governor based on recommendations from the Ministry of Home Affairs. To achieve a majority, a party must secure 48 members.

Ravinder Sharma, vice-president of the Jammu-Kashmir Pradesh Congress, stated, “We oppose the nomination of five MLAs by the Lieutenant Governor before the government formation in Jammu and Kashmir. This is an attack on the fundamental principles of democracy, the people’s verdict, and the Constitution.” The Congress insists that nominations should only occur after a new government is formed, warning that any other course of action would betray the voters’ will.
Crime, National

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

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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.
National

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

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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.
International, National

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

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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.
National, Politics

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

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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.
Economy, National

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

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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.
International, National

Indian Army Chief Warns of Israeli Tactics Amid Rising Tensions with Hezbollah

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 1, 2024, New Delhi: In a critical statement, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi urged caution regarding Israel’s strategic maneuvers, particularly in the realm of technology imports. Speaking at a recent conference, General Dwivedi highlighted Israel’s “master plan” aimed at dismantling Hezbollah, following a recent explosion that underscored the volatility of the region.


The explosion, linked to Hezbollah’s communication network, resulted in the deaths of 40 individuals and significantly disrupted the group’s operations. Reports suggest that the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad developed a covert shell company to engineer explosive devices concealed within the walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah operatives. This operation has drawn attention from military strategists, including General Dwivedi, who has previously commended Israel’s innovative tactics.

Following the explosion, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah ordered a shift to mobile phones in an attempt to evade Israeli surveillance, believing it would obscure the group’s movements from Mossad. However, this move prompted a swift counterstrategy from Israel. According to the New York Times, the shell company was established prior to Nasrallah’s directive, allowing Mossad to swiftly create specialized pagers tailored for Hezbollah. These devices, equipped with a mere three grams of explosive, were engineered to exploit vulnerabilities in the group’s communication protocols.

General Dwivedi’s remarks serve as a stark reminder for India to remain vigilant about the implications of Israel’s technological advancements and intelligence operations. As regional tensions escalate, the need for strategic awareness and preparedness has never been more critical for Indian defense operations. The Indian military community continues to monitor these developments closely, recognizing the potential impact on national security and regional stability.
Misc, National, West Bengal

West Bengal Government Allocates ₹1,500 Crore for Ghatal Master Plan to Combat Flooding

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 30 September 2024, Kolkata: In a significant step towards mitigating the perennial flood crisis in West Bengal’s Ghatal region, the state government has committed ₹1,500 crore for the implementation of the much-anticipated Ghatal Master Plan. The ambitious project, which has been in the pipeline for years, aims to provide lasting relief to the flood-ravaged residents of the Ghatal subdivision in East and West Midnapore. A Detailed Project Report (DPR) has already been prepared, with a targeted completion timeline of two years.


Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, emphasizing the urgency of the project, held a high-level meeting at Nabanna to fast-track its execution. “The Ghatal Master Plan has been stalled for far too long. We must expedite this crucial work. There is also a need for a similar master plan for the Sundarbans, where rising water levels near Kapil Muni Ashram in Gangesagar are becoming a growing concern,” the Chief Minister said during the meeting.

Ghatal, located about 120 km west of Kolkata, has become synonymous with devastating annual floods that impact both urban and rural areas. Local residents, many of whom live on or below the poverty line, have faced the brunt of these floods for decades. Every year, heavy monsoon rains and post-monsoon tropical cyclones from the Bay of Bengal inundate the region, causing immense damage to property and livelihoods.

The Ghatal region’s geographical challenges exacerbate the situation. It lies in a basin-shaped topography, surrounded by rivers like the Shilabati, Dwarkeshwar, and Rupnarayan, which frequently overflow during the monsoon season. The stagnant floodwaters make recovery even more difficult for the affected communities. Moreover, the release of excess water from upstream reservoirs of the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) and the Kangsabati Project adds to the problem, contributing to prolonged waterlogging in the area.

The Ghatal Master Plan, seen as a long-term solution, will include extensive dredging of riverbeds and the reinforcement of embankments. The project is expected to alleviate the flood situation by improving drainage systems and controlling the water flow. Experts, like Dr. Sayantan Das of Dum Dum Motijheel College’s Geography Department, have emphasized the importance of managing the water released from the DVC and Kangsabati reservoirs, which frequently leads to severe flooding in the region.

For decades, the Ghatal area has seen little progress despite repeated promises from successive governments. Residents like Ashok Santra, a long-time CPI(M) worker, have expressed frustration over the delayed action. “The Left Front government tried for years to address this issue, but it remained unresolved. Even before that, Congress ruled for 30 years, yet the problem persists. The original funding structure, with a 60-40 split between the central and state governments, never materialized,” Santra lamented.

With the ₹1,500 crore allocation, the state government hopes to bring about tangible improvements. As Paschim Medinipur heads to the polls in May 2025, the success of the Ghatal Master Plan will be a critical issue for local voters. The project’s implementation is not only a matter of infrastructure but a lifeline for the region’s flood-weary residents who have endured decades of hardship.

The urgency and scale of the project mark a turning point in the state’s flood management strategy, offering renewed hope for the people of Ghatal.
Crime, National, West Bengal

CBI Probes Mysterious Circumstances Surrounding Doctor’s Death Amid Evidence Tampering Allegations

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is intensifying its efforts to unravel the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of a doctor at RG Kar Hospital, particularly focusing on the autopsy report’s reference to the term “antimortem.” The agency is eager to clarify several critical questions regarding the injuries found on the victim’s body.


The CBI has meticulously compared witness statements with the injury descriptions detailed in the post-mortem report. As part of their investigation, they have interrogated the doctors responsible for conducting the autopsy, as well as the morgue staff, in an effort to solve this complex case. Key questions include whether the injuries were inflicted before or after death and whether the victim, Tilottama, was sexually assaulted prior to or following her murder. The post-mortem report indicates multiple injuries that were allegedly sustained before death, although investigators are casting doubt on the report’s accuracy.

According to CBI sources, their multiple visits to RG Kar Hospital and scrutiny of the post-mortem report have led them to believe that while Sanjay Roy may have brutally tortured the victim, the actual murder could have been committed by someone else. This revelation, along with the possibility that sexual assault occurred after death, adds a new layer of complexity to the investigation.


The CBI has summoned Dr. Apurba Biswas, the post-mortem doctor, along with other staff members for further questioning at the CGO complex. Additionally, two seized mobile phones have been sent for forensic analysis. Notably, one of these phones belonged to an influential doctor with ties to former RG Kar chief Sandeep Ghosh. Investigators discovered that many crucial images, call recordings, and messages had been deleted from both devices, raising concerns that vital evidence related to the conspiracy may have been lost.

Details regarding the alleged conspiracy and evidence tampering by Dr. Sandeep Ghosh, who has been arrested, have emerged in court. If the CBI successfully proves the charges against him, Ghosh could face the death penalty for his involvement in evidence tampering and conspiracy. In a recent directive, a judge noted, “The scale of the charges is serious. If proved, this could lead to capital punishment, which is reserved for the rarest of cases. Therefore, it would be unjust to grant bail on these charges.”

As the investigation unfolds, the CBI is working diligently to piece together the facts surrounding this troubling case, seeking justice for the victim while holding accountable those who may have attempted to obstruct the truth.
National, Politics

Two Lashkar Militants Killed, Five Security Personnel Injured in Gunfight in Kulgam

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 29, 2024, New Delhi: The security situation in Jammu and Kashmir intensified over the weekend amid ongoing assembly elections, as two militants from the Lashkar-e-Taiba were killed during a gunfight in Kul village. The encounter took place late Saturday night, resulting in injuries to five security personnel.


According to reports, the incident began when a joint operation was launched by the nine Rashtriya Rifles and local Kashmir Police after intelligence indicated a militant presence in the Arigam village of the Debsar area in Kulgam district. As security forces cordoned off the area, suspected militants opened fire, prompting a swift response from the guards. In the ensuing gunfight, two jihadi militants were killed, and four security personnel, including an officer of ASP rank, sustained injuries.

Police sources indicated that the slain militants were believed to be plotting to incite unrest in the region during the electoral process. A cache of sophisticated firearms and ammunition was recovered from the scene, along with several suspicious documents that could provide further insight into their operations.

The two deceased militants have been identified as local residents: Umesh Wani from Kulgam and Aqib Ahmed Shergajri from Budgam. Both are reportedly affiliated with Lashkar’s offshoot, the Resistance Front, which has been linked to various militant activities in the region.

The recent encounter underscores the challenges facing security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during this crucial election period. Authorities are on high alert as they work to ensure a peaceful voting process amid ongoing threats from militant groups.
National, Politics

Election Commission to Introduce New Rules for Enhanced Voting Transparency

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Calcutta – In a significant move towards ensuring transparent elections, the Election Commission of India is set to implement new rules aimed at improving voter identification and addressing concerns over fraudulent voting practices. Following persistent scrutiny regarding the integrity of electoral processes, the Commission is taking proactive measures to bolster transparency and accuracy.


Key among these new regulations is the mandatory linking of Aadhaar cards with voter IDs. Voters will be required to present both their Aadhaar card and voter ID at polling booths, where machines will verify the linkage. If a voter’s Aadhaar is not already linked, they can complete the process on-site, enhancing accessibility and efficiency.

This initiative aims to create accurate voter lists and root out the presence of fake voters—issues that have plagued recent elections. Reports of deceased individuals still listed as eligible voters have raised alarms, prompting the Commission to act decisively. The upcoming Lok Sabha elections have underscored the need for reform, as discrepancies in voter lists have come to light.

The Election Commission has scheduled the revision of voter lists from November 12 to December this year, with a new list expected to be published by January. These changes will be rolled out before the draft voter list is finalized, marking a crucial step in the Commission’s ongoing commitment to uphold electoral integrity and public confidence in the democratic process.
National, Techno/ Science, West Bengal

India’s Vande Bharat Trains Set to Expand Internationally, Targeting Canada, Chile, and Malaysia

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, Calcutta – India’s indigenous ‘Vande Bharat’ trains, hailed for their advanced technology, are poised for international expansion, with countries like Canada, Chile, and Malaysia expressing interest in purchasing these homegrown marvels. The global spotlight on the ‘Tejas’ train reflects the success of the Modi government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, garnering acclaim for its engineering and efficiency.


As Vande Bharat trains have captured significant attention across various routes within India, experts believe it’s only a matter of time before these trains operate overseas. The cost advantage is compelling: while similar trains in other countries range from ₹160 to ₹180 crore, India’s Vande Bharat is projected to be priced between ₹120 and ₹130 crore, making it an attractive option for potential buyers.

Speed is another selling point; the Vande Bharat train accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 52 seconds, outperforming Japan’s bullet train, which takes 54 seconds. Additionally, the design emphasizes a quiet, vibration-free ride akin to flying, along with lower electricity consumption.

With discussions around exporting these trains intensifying, the potential for India’s Vande Bharat to traverse international tracks appears imminent, marking a significant milestone in the country’s railway innovation journey.
National, Politics

Bengaluru Court Orders FIR Against Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, 28 September 2024, New Delhi – A Bengaluru court has mandated the filing of an FIR against Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over allegations involving the collection of electoral bonds. The complaint, brought forth by Adarsh Iyer of the Janadhakar Sankash organization in Karnataka, claims that corporate entities were coerced into purchasing significant amounts of electoral bonds under duress related to an ongoing ED investigation.

In light of these allegations, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has demanded Sitharaman’s resignation from the Union Cabinet and has also filed complaints against other prominent BJP figures, including Nalin Kumar Katil, BY Vijayendra, and BJP national president JP Nadda. Iyer’s allegations suggest involvement from both national and state-level BJP leaders.

The BJP has strongly refuted these claims, labeling them as politically motivated and asserting that electoral bonds represent a policy issue rather than a criminal offense. The party has continued to target Siddaramaiah over accusations of land corruption.

Recent data from the State Bank of India indicates that ₹6,986.5 crore has been deposited in the electoral bond fund associated with the BJP. In a counter-response, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, “63% of the income from electoral bonds went to opposition parties, while the BJP received only 37%. Why, then, are the opposition pointing fingers at us?” This ongoing political drama highlights the contentious nature of electoral finance in India as the nation gears up for upcoming elections.

National, Politics

Rahul Gandhi Takes on Major Responsibility as Member of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defense

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 27, 2024, New Delhi: Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has been entrusted with a significant new responsibility as a member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defense. This appointment marks a return for Gandhi, who previously served on the committee. The Rajya Sabha Secretariat officially announced the formation of various parliamentary committees, revealing a reshuffling of key figures in crucial roles.


Apart from Gandhi, notable appointments were made, including Bollywood actress and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, who has been made a member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology. Joining her on this committee are Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan and Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, making the panel a diverse mix of political and public figures.

Rahul Gandhi’s appointment to the defense committee is seen as an acknowledgment of his growing role in national politics, particularly in matters of national security and defense. The defense committee will be headed by BJP MP Radhamohan Singh, and Gandhi’s inclusion signals his continued influence in critical policy discussions.

In addition to Gandhi, several other prominent MPs from the Congress party have been appointed to key parliamentary committees. Congress MP and former Foreign Minister Shashi Tharoor has been appointed as the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, underscoring his expertise in international relations.

The Congress party has also secured responsibilities in other important committees, including those on Education, Women and Child Welfare, Youth, and Sports. Veteran Congress leader Digvijay Singh will lead the Education, Women and Child Welfare committee, reflecting the party’s strategic placement in areas of social and educational policy.

However, notably absent from any committee is seven-time MP and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi, raising questions about her reduced role in parliamentary affairs. This has sparked speculation about the future direction of leadership within the Congress party and her involvement moving forward.

Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has also made significant strides in parliamentary representation. Veteran TMC MP Dola Sen has been named chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee. In addition, Burdwan-Durgapur MP and former national cricketer Keerti Azad has been appointed as the chairman of the standing committee under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, giving the former sports star an important role in shaping policy within this sector.

These appointments come at a critical time as the newly-formed standing committees are expected to play a pivotal role in addressing pressing issues related to defense, foreign affairs, education, and other key sectors in the upcoming parliamentary sessions. With Rahul Gandhi’s return to the Defense Committee and other key appointments, the Congress is positioning itself for an active and influential role in shaping policy and legislation.
National, Politics

Yogi Adityanath’s Bold Claim: “India Will Reclaim Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir if BJP Returns to Power in Jammu & Kashmir”

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 27, 2024, New Delhi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made a powerful and controversial statement during a BJP election rally in the RS Pura area of Jammu, declaring that India will reclaim Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) once the BJP comes to power in Jammu and Kashmir. His remarks have sparked intense political discussions and drawn national attention as the final phase of elections in the region approaches.


While addressing the crowd, Adityanath asserted, “Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir is an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir. The process of bringing PoK under Indian control will commence only when the BJP returns to power in Jammu and Kashmir.” His bold declaration was framed as a direct threat to Pakistan, with the Chief Minister emphasizing India’s readiness to assert control over the disputed territory.

He further added, “India stands strong, while Pakistan is on the brink of collapse. Today, it is clear to the world that Pakistan is bankrupt, its people are protesting in the streets, and the government is struggling to manage its affairs.” Adityanath highlighted the stark contrast between the two nations, portraying Pakistan as a failing state beset by internal strife and economic instability.

In an even more scathing attack, Adityanath labeled Pakistan as the “enemy of humanity” and referred to it as the “cancer of humanity.” He went on to claim that people worldwide are now calling for the eradication of this “cancer,” reinforcing his position that Pakistan is not only a threat to India but to global stability.

These remarks come at a critical time, with the third and final phase of elections in Jammu and Kashmir heating up. Yogi Adityanath’s fiery rhetoric is seen as a rallying cry to BJP supporters, pushing a strong nationalist agenda and positioning the BJP as the party that can secure Jammu and Kashmir’s future—including taking decisive action on Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

Political analysts view this statement as a high-stakes strategy aimed at consolidating nationalist sentiment and energizing BJP’s base in a region crucial to India’s security and sovereignty. However, the statement has also ignited debates among opposition parties, some of whom have accused the BJP of escalating tensions with Pakistan for electoral gains.

In recent years, the status of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir has been a topic of great sensitivity in Indian politics, particularly since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status. Adityanath’s speech signals the BJP’s continued hardline stance on the Kashmir issue, reinforcing its commitment to territorial integrity and national security.

As the political temperature rises ahead of the elections, Adityanath’s statement has added a new dimension to the ongoing discourse about Jammu and Kashmir’s future and the geopolitical relationship between India and Pakistan.
National, Politics

Nitin Gadkari Declines Offer to Become Prime Minister, Fuels Speculation in National Politics

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 27, 2024, New Delhi: In a surprising revelation, veteran BJP leader and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, disclosed that he was offered the position of Prime Minister multiple times. This statement has sparked widespread speculation in national political circles, particularly about Gadkari’s relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his standing within the BJP.


In an interview, Gadkari revealed that offers for the Prime Ministership came both before and after the recent Lok Sabha elections. However, he categorically stated that these offers did not come from within the BJP. “There is no question of deviating from my ideals. I have never had the intention of becoming Prime Minister. I live by my ideology,” Gadkari clarified, reinforcing his commitment to his principles.

The confession has stirred debates about internal rifts within the BJP and whether Gadkari is being seen as a potential rival to Modi. Gadkari’s stature as a seasoned leader and his experience in managing key portfolios, especially infrastructure, have made him an influential figure, and some political analysts believe he has been viewed as a counterbalance to Modi’s dominance within the party.

While Gadkari’s rejection of the offer reflects his loyalty to the BJP’s organizational structure, the timing of his comments has raised eyebrows. The BJP’s performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections was weaker than expected, and during this period, many political observers speculated about a potential shift in leadership. Gadkari’s name was frequently floated as a possible alternative to Modi, with some opposition leaders even showing interest in backing him for the top post in a coalition government.

The tension between Gadkari and Modi has long been a topic of discussion in political circles. Gadkari’s prominence predates Modi’s meteoric rise in the national political scene around 2012-2013. During this period, Modi, along with his close allies Amit Shah and J.P. Nadda, consolidated his leadership within the BJP, marginalizing several senior leaders, including Gadkari. Despite his exclusion from Modi’s inner circle, Gadkari has maintained his influence, particularly in infrastructure development, and his name continues to command respect within the party and beyond.

With his recent remarks, Gadkari has once again underscored his unique position in Indian politics—remaining loyal to his ideology and the BJP, yet commanding a broader appeal that extends even to opposition circles. Whether this will lead to further shifts within the BJP’s power dynamics remains to be seen.