Category Archives: West Bengal

Crime, West Bengal

Court Sentences Three to Life Imprisonment in 2020 Habra Double Murder Case

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 5, 2025, Kolkata :   A chilling case of greed-driven murder shook Habra, North 24 Parganas, in 2020, where a daughter and her husband orchestrated the killing of her parents for property. The Barasat court has now delivered its verdict, sentencing the three accused, including a hired sharpshooter, to life imprisonment.


According to police reports, the crime stemmed from severe financial distress faced by the accused. Bunty Sadhu, the son-in-law of the deceased couple, had accumulated a debt exceeding seven lakh rupees. Desperate to resolve his financial crisis, he and his wife, Nivedita Sadhu, pressured her parents to sell their property. When their demands were ignored, they resorted to a sinister plan to eliminate the elderly couple and seize the assets.

Bunty and Nivedita hired sharpshooter Ajay Das to carry out the murder. The crime initially baffled investigators, as the accused daughter and son-in-law actively misled authorities to divert suspicion. However, as the investigation progressed, police discovered Bunty’s significant debts, which eventually led them to the truth. Then the interrogation of Nivedita and Bunty started. That’s when their plan came to light. The hired killer Ajay was also arrested. Finally, the Barasat court ordered life imprisonment.

On Monday, the court pronounced its verdict, sentencing the couple and the contract killer to life imprisonment. As the judge delivered the ruling, the convicted daughter and son-in-law remained silent, reflecting on the weight of their actions. The judgment brings closure to a case that had left the local community in shock and serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of unchecked greed.
Health, West Bengal

World Hearing Day: Kolkata Hosts Awareness Walk to Address Growing Hearing Health Concerns

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : As hearing problems continue to rise globally, the importance of awareness and early intervention has never been more critical. According to a report by the World Health Organization, approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from hearing issues, with that number expected to rise to 2.5 billion by 2050. In India alone, around 1.17 lakh children are born each year with congenital hearing impairment. With proper awareness and timely medical attention, many of these problems can be addressed effectively.


In observance of World Hearing Day on March 3, the West Bengal Branch of the Speech and Hearing Association of India organized an awareness walk in Kolkata. The walk, which stretched from Rashbehari Crossing to Gariahat, aimed to raise awareness about hearing health. The event saw participation from speech and hearing specialists, children suffering from hearing impairments, and their families, all walking together to spread the message of the importance of early intervention and hearing care.

This year’s World Hearing Day theme, “Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself, Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All,” was highlighted by Dr. Md. Sahidul Arefin, Joint Secretary of the Association. He pointed out the significance of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening (UNHS), a simple test that can diagnose hearing issues in infants. While over 98% of newborns in developed countries undergo this screening, in India, only 5-15% of infants receive it. Dr. Arefin emphasized the need for greater awareness to ensure early intervention and better outcomes for children with hearing impairments.

Dr. Babul Basu, former president of the Indian Speech-Language and Hearing Association, spoke about the dangers of excessive noise exposure, unnecessary honking, and loud sounds, urging people to be mindful of these everyday practices that can contribute to hearing loss. Dr. Amrita Bhattacharya, from Shishumangal Hospital, also highlighted the rising concern over excessive headphone use, which is increasingly linked to hearing problems. She urged the public to exercise caution when using headphones to protect their hearing health.

Parents of children who have overcome hearing difficulties shared their personal experiences during the event, encouraging others not to panic in the face of hearing challenges but to seek help from specialists promptly for effective solutions.

World Hearing Day serves as a reminder that hearing health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and through education, awareness, and early intervention, many hearing and speech-related issues can be mitigated. The Kolkata walk marked a significant step in promoting hearing care and supporting those affected by hearing impairments.
Education, Health, West Bengal

Basirhat Students Create Innovative Model to Combat Pollution and Purify Factory Smoke

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Basirhat : Environmental pollution continues to be one of the most pressing issues of our time, with factory emissions and vehicle exhaust being major contributors. In a bid to tackle this problem, three students from Chapapukur Higher Secondary School in Basirhat, North 24 Parganas, have developed an innovative solution aimed at reducing air pollution caused by factory smoke. Their groundbreaking model has already caught the attention of environmentalists and the public.


The students, hailing from Basirhat 2 Block, designed a special “carbon observer” model that filters polluted smoke produced by factories. The model works by channeling smoke emitted from a factory chimney through a special pipe that passes through a filter-equipped structure. This filter traps harmful substances, including carbon, from the smoke, allowing much of the purified air to be released back into the environment.

According to the students, this dual-purpose innovation offers significant benefits. Firstly, it helps to clean the air by removing toxic pollutants, providing fresher, healthier air for the environment. Secondly, the carbon accumulated in the filter can be repurposed to create useful products, including ink and paint, turning waste into valuable resources.

This remarkable achievement has been lauded by both the local community and school teachers. Environmental experts are particularly impressed with the students’ ingenuity in finding a practical solution to combat pollution. As awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, this student-driven innovation stands as a shining example of how young minds can contribute to solving some of the world’s most urgent challenges.
Politics, West Bengal

Subhendu Adhikari Accuses Trinamool of Inserting Fake Voters, Demands Biometric Voting System

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : A political firestorm erupted over voter list allegations as Subhendu Adhikari, the leader of the opposition, made serious claims against the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). Following Mamata Banerjee’s accusations on Thursday about “ghost voters” in Netaji Indoor, Adhikari escalated the controversy by alleging that Trinamool has been systematically adding false names to the voter list. In a pointed attack, he claimed that the TMC has been inserting names of illegal voters, including Rohingya Muslims and infiltrators from neighboring Bangladesh, particularly in border districts like Murshidabad and Malda.


Adhikari’s remarks came after he met with the Chief Election Commissioner on Friday evening to discuss the issue. He accused the Election Commission of failing to act on repeated complaints about fake voter registrations. He specifically highlighted the BJP’s ongoing efforts to expose the presence of Rohingya Muslims in the voter list, claiming that despite submitting over 15,000 pages of complaints, the Election Commission has done nothing to address the matter.

The Opposition Leader also criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in strong terms, calling out her government for allegedly manipulating the electoral process. In his statement, Adhikari suggested that the way forward to resolve these issues is by linking Aadhaar cards to Elector’s Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) to ensure voter authenticity. He argued that if the Aadhaar system can be used for ration distribution, there is no reason why it cannot be employed in the election process. He called for biometric voting machines to be introduced in West Bengal to verify voters and prevent manipulation.

Adhikari’s demands reflect growing tensions between the opposition and the ruling party, with both sides accusing each other of undermining the integrity of the electoral process. As the state approaches the 2026 assembly elections, these allegations are likely to continue to fuel political debate and scrutiny over voter registration practices in West Bengal.
National, Politics, West Bengal

Congress Strengthens Organizational Base Ahead of 2026 Elections, Targets Independent Fight

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : In a significant message to the party workers, the Congress leadership has emphasized the need to focus on strengthening the organization in preparation for the 2026 assembly elections. During a one-day visit to Kolkata on Saturday, Ghulam Mir, the state Congress observer, underscored the importance of building the party’s foundation at the grassroots level before considering alliances with other parties. He conveyed that the party’s priority should be to enhance its own strength, positioning Congress as a key player capable of negotiating any future political collaborations.


Speaking at a political workshop at the Vidhan Bhavan, Mir stated, “We have to increase our value. We need to place ourselves in a position where, if other parties want to join with Congress, we can negotiate terms on our own.” His message was clear: Congress must first build a robust organizational structure before contemplating any compromises or alliances with other political forces.

Mir directed the workers to focus on strengthening the party at the booth level, stressing that a strong local presence is essential to mounting a successful electoral campaign. However, workers voiced concerns that during elections, the ruling party in the state often prevents Congress agents from being posted at booths, using intimidation tactics. In response, Ghulam Mir assured that the top leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, or Mallikarjun Kharge, could visit Kolkata in the lead-up to the elections. However, he emphasized that a committee must first be established at the booth level for the party to move forward effectively.

The workshop also saw the participation of prominent Congress leaders, including Adhir Chowdhury, Pradeep Bhattacharya, Subhankar Sarkar, and Abhijit Mukherjee. Adhir Chowdhury and Pradeep Bhattacharya were vocal in their criticism of both the Trinamool Congress and the BJP, accusing them of engaging in communal politics that threatens the democratic fabric of Bengal.

Another key issue discussed was the “ghost voter” controversy, which has been a point of contention between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the BJP. While Trinamool has alleged that the BJP is manipulating the voter list by registering fake or “ghost” voters, Congress has taken a slightly different stance. Mir stated that the priority should be to remove the names of deceased individuals from the electoral rolls, rather than focusing solely on allegations of voter manipulation. He called for a thorough cleaning of the voter list to ensure its accuracy and integrity.

As the 2026 assembly elections approach, Congress appears focused on building a strong foundation within the state, with a clear emphasis on organizational growth and a commitment to fighting the elections independently. The leadership’s strategy to strengthen booth-level operations signals a determined push to improve the party’s performance in the upcoming polls.
Politics, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Leads Statewide Drive to Tackle ‘Ghost Voters,’ TMC Launches House-to-House Survey

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has launched a vigorous campaign to combat what she termed as “ghost voters” ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. The initiative was prompted by Banerjee’s recent allegations that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is manipulating voter lists with the help of the Election Commission of India (ECI), particularly in districts across the state. Banerjee accused the BJP of enrolling non-local individuals as voters by exploiting data entry operators working for the ECI. The Chief Minister claimed that agencies such as the “Association of Brilliant Minds” and “India 360” were involved in these manipulations.


On Thursday, Banerjee directed the party to begin a thorough, state-wide house-to-house survey to identify and remove “fake voters” from the rolls. In Hooghly, Kolkata Mayor and state Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim was seen personally going door-to-door with Trinamool workers in the Chetla area, examining voter lists. Hakim emphasized the need to verify every voter, pointing out that the process would take two weeks, with a final list of real voters, fake voters, deceased voters, and those who had left the locality yet remained on the list to be submitted to the Election Commission.

In Barasat, former minister Jyotipriya Mallick led a meeting to address similar concerns about fake voters, and party workers there are also set to visit households, closely scrutinizing voter details. In Cooch Behar, Trinamool District President Abhijit De Bhowmik sparked controversy when he claimed that a voter from Uttar Pradesh was fraudulently listed under a Bengali voter’s EPIC number. He shared documents online to support his claim, which was immediately disputed by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, who dismissed the allegations as false.

The drive also saw participation from other Trinamool leaders across the state. North Bengal Development Minister Udayan Guha joined local councillors in Dinhata to ensure voter list accuracy, while Swapan Kumar Nandi, the chairperson of the Arambagh municipality board, conducted similar checks in his constituency.

These actions come after Banerjee accused the BJP of attempting to manipulate electoral rolls in a manner similar to their alleged practices in Delhi and Maharashtra, where, she claimed, fake voters from other states were registered to influence the outcome of elections. Banerjee had earlier alleged that up to 30,000 fake voters were being registered in every assembly seat across the state, a claim that was sharply refuted by the BJP, which accused the TMC government of enrolling infiltrators from Bangladesh and Myanmar.

The West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer, however, dismissed these allegations, asserting that the electoral rolls were updated according to the legal protocols under the Representation of the People Act 1950. The CEO clarified that the process involved multiple layers of checks, including participation from Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by political parties, and any claims or objections should be raised before the relevant electoral officers.

Amidst the ongoing political rhetoric and accusations, Banerjee has also announced the formation of a high-level committee, including senior Trinamool leaders such as Subrata Bakshi, Derek O’Brien, Abhishek Banerjee, and Firhad Hakim, to oversee the voter list verification process. As the 2026 assembly elections approach, these developments signal an intensifying political battle over voter integrity in West Bengal.
Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Social Media Coordinator and General Secretary Extends Ramadan Greetings and Best Wishes to Higher Secondary Candidates

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 3, 2025,  Hooghly : Abhishek Gupta, the Social Media State Coordinator for Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and General Secretary of the “India’s Hridoye Mamata” Social Media platform, has extended heartfelt greetings and congratulations to both the Muslim community celebrating the holy month of Ramadan and the candidates sitting for their Higher Secondary exams.


The holy month of Ramadan began on March 2, marking a time of fasting and reflection for the Muslim community. At the same time, the Higher Secondary exams, one of the most significant academic milestones in a student’s life, began on March 3. Acknowledging this convergence of important events, Gupta expressed his warm wishes for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth to the Muslim brothers and sisters observing Ramadan.

Simultaneously, he conveyed his support and best wishes to all students facing the Higher Secondary exams, urging them to stay focused and confident as they take this important step forward in their academic and personal lives.

Gupta’s message was shared in the presence of several key Trinamool leaders, including Hooghly observer and Arambagh district president Swapan Dutta, as well as Mayor Amit Roy, who were by his side during the occasion. The Trinamool leaders’ public expressions of solidarity reflect the party’s commitment to supporting both cultural observances and the educational aspirations of the state’s youth.
Economy, West Bengal

NABARD Sets Rs. 3.80 Lakh Crore Credit Target for West Bengal’s Priority Sectors in 2025-26

Leave a comment


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 1, 2025, Kolkata :  The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has set an ambitious credit target of Rs. 3.80 lakh crore for priority sector lending in West Bengal for the financial year 2025-26, marking a 20.63% increase over the previous year. This announcement was made by Shri P.K. Bhardwaj, Chief General Manager of NABARD, during the State Credit Seminar held on 28th February 2025 at Hotel Lalit Great Eastern.

NABARD prepares the Potential Linked Credit Plans (PLPs) for each district annually, using a consultative approach aimed at facilitating the distribution of credit for priority sector activities. These plans assess factors such as resource availability, credit deployment trends, infrastructure needs, market opportunities, and government policies to determine the potential for priority sector lending by banks. The district-specific potentials are compiled into the State Focus Paper (SFP), which is used to highlight sectoral credit opportunities, infrastructure gaps, support linkages, and critical policy issues that require intervention from stakeholders to ensure sustainable socio-economic development.

The State Focus Paper for FY 2025-26 was unveiled at the seminar by Shri Prabhat Kumar Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Finance Department, Government of West Bengal. Other key attendees included Shri Onkar Singh Meena, Principal Secretary of Agriculture, along with officials from various government bodies, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), State Bank of India (SBI), and other financial institutions. Senior officials from the state government, zonal and regional heads of commercial banks, and lead district managers participated in the seminar virtually.

During the seminar, Shri Bhardwaj shared that the Rs. 3.80 lakh crore credit potential for the state in the coming year includes a significant focus on agriculture. The agriculture sector, including agri-infrastructure and ancillary activities, accounts for 33.42% of the total credit target, amounting to Rs. 1.27 lakh crore. He emphasized the unique agricultural challenges in West Bengal and stressed the importance of initiatives in areas such as Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), climate resilience, and the processing and marketing of agricultural products. He further called for sufficient credit allocation and collaboration among stakeholders to foster accelerated development.

Shri Balbir Singh, General Manager of the State Level Bankers’ Committee (SLBC), acknowledged NABARD’s extensive research and studies in agriculture, pointing out the state’s immense export potential. He underscored the need to exceed annual credit targets for the upcoming fiscal year. Shri Satyendra Kumar Singh, Chief General Manager of SBI, also stressed the importance of crop diversification and the adoption of sustainable farming practices.

Smt. Mary L. N. C. Guite, Chief General Manager of RBI, lauded NABARD’s efforts in publishing the State Focus Paper, highlighting the need for financial literacy and addressing the gender gap in the sector. She emphasized the necessity for cooperation between NABARD and RBI to unlock the state’s potential. Shri Onkar Singh Meena, Principal Secretary of Agriculture, GoWB, praised the state’s agricultural credit disbursements, which reached Rs. 75,000 crore and are expected to exceed Rs. 1 lakh crore in the current fiscal year. He called for a market-demand-based strategy and the diversification of crops, particularly focusing on pulses, maize, and oilseeds. He also urged banks to prioritize long-term agricultural financing, particularly for infrastructure such as cold storage, rice mills, and processing facilities.

In his keynote address, Shri Prabhat Kumar Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary of Finance, GoWB, emphasized the need for coordinated efforts among NABARD, the state government, and other stakeholders to address challenges at the ground level. He highlighted the importance of sustainable development initiatives in response to climate change impacts and suggested focusing on the state’s fisheries sector, which holds significant export potential. He also praised the success of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), initiated by NABARD, and suggested scaling up such initiatives.

The seminar also featured the unveiling of a study on the betel vine value chain analysis and success stories from projects funded under the Tribal Development Fund (TDF). Additionally, documentaries on Rural Infrastructure Promotion Fund (RIPF) and TDF projects were released during the event.

West Bengal is home to nearly 90 lakh MSME units, the second-largest number in the country, which play a vital role in the state’s economy. The MSME sector holds a credit potential of Rs. 2.00 lakh crore, representing 52.63% of the total credit potential for 2025-26. Additionally, Rs. 0.53 lakh crore is earmarked for other priority sector activities, including housing, education, social infrastructure, export credit, renewable energy, and loans for SHGs and Joint Liability Groups (JLGs).

The credit projections for the coming year align with both central and state government priorities to accelerate and sustain agricultural growth, improve farmers’ incomes, and support MSMEs. The targeted approach also focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity, fostering food and agro-processing activities, and strengthening informal credit delivery systems such as SHGs and JLGs, contributing to holistic and inclusive growth across the state.

Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Congress Leaders Warned of Strict Action for Breaching Party Discipline at Mega Rally

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 27, 2025, Kolkata :  Abhishek Bandyopadhyay, a key leader of the Trinamool Congress, has issued a stern warning to party members over breaches in discipline, criticizing certain MLAs, MPs, and party spokespersons for their lack of accountability. Speaking at the Netaji Indore Trinamool mega rally, Bandyopadhyay made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated, emphasizing that party rules must be respected at all costs. The rally saw Trinamool Congress leaders, activists, and public representatives gathered in large numbers, signaling the party’s continued push for unity and strength in the lead-up to future elections.


During his address, Mamata Bandyopadhyay, the party’s leader, reinforced this message, warning that any form of indiscipline would not be accepted within the party. She highlighted the workers as the backbone of the Trinamool Congress, stressing their importance in maintaining the party’s integrity and vision. She also noted how the Trinamool Congress had successfully defeated the BJP cycle in the past and reiterated her commitment to honesty and transparency.

Abhishek Bandyopadhyay also set the tone for future political battles, stating that the Trinamool Congress must be prepared for the upcoming electoral challenges in 2024. His remarks focused on the goal of securing a two-thirds majority in the next election, signaling the party’s readiness for an intense political contest. The call for unity and strict adherence to party guidelines reflects Trinamool Congress’s determination to maintain discipline and ensure electoral success.
Politics, West Bengal

Tensions Rise Within Trinamool Congress as Jorasanko MLA Vivek Gupta and Kunal Ghosh Exchange Barbs

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, 

 KalimNews, February 26, 2025, Kolkata : A war of words erupted within the Trinamool Congress as Jorasakho constituency MLA Vivek Gupta expressed his frustration with certain new leaders and workers within the party. He accused them of being self-styled leaders with personal agendas, saying, “There are some self-styled leaders. They had many problems. There are some outside groups in Chittaranjan. They are people from the Trinamool. They are new. They have entered this party for their own gain. They do not follow Mamata’s ideology. They have entered for their own gain.”

Vivek Gupta’s comments quickly sparked a response from fellow party leader Kunal Ghosh, who was not willing to remain silent. Ghosh released a video in which Gupta’s secretary was heard claiming control over Jorasakho’s politics. Using this video, Kunal Ghosh questioned Vivek Gupta’s leadership, asking, “What is Vivek doing if that girl is running Jorasakho?”

In his statement, Ghosh pointed out that Vivek should have addressed any party issues within the party structure, rather than airing grievances publicly. He said, “Vivek is a Trinamool MLA. If you have any problem, talk to the party leadership. If you feel something objectionable anywhere, talk to the party directly. You should not say it outside the party. And secondly, there is a communication gap somewhere.”

The situation became even more heated when a young woman, Payal Nag, was mentioned on social media as having control over the politics of Jorasakho. However, Payal Nag quickly clarified, stating, “I work under Vivek Guptaji. He is my MLA. And I follow the instructions he gives me.”

Despite the clarification, the back-and-forth continued, with both sides expressing their frustrations. This internal party squabble has become the talk of the town, with many Bengalis following the drama with great interest. It remains to be seen how this will affect the party’s cohesion in the lead-up to future elections.

Crime, West Bengal

CBI to File Supplementary Chargesheet in RG Kar Doctor’s Death Case, Focuses on Evidence Theft and Cover-Up Attempt

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 26, 2025, Kolkata : The tragic case involving the rape and murder of a female doctor working at RG Kar Hospital continues to unfold, with the court recently announcing the punishment for the main accused. However, the investigation is far from over. A supplementary chargesheet is set to be filed by the CBI regarding the second aspect of the case: evidence theft.


According to CBI sources, this supplementary chargesheet will detail evidence obtained from the CCTV footage of RG Kar Hospital and Tala police station. The chargesheet is also based on the testimony of approximately 180 individuals who were questioned during the investigation. The CBI is set to file this chargesheet in the court of the Sealdah Additional Judicial Magistrate on March 3.

A CBI official revealed that there was an attempt to cover up the true cause of the young doctor’s death, with claims that her death was initially portrayed as a suicide. New information gathered during the investigation has led to the discovery of critical evidence, which will be admissible in court. This evidence is expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming supplementary chargesheet.

Earlier in the case, the CBI had arrested two individuals—former RG Kar Hospital principal Sandeep Ghosh and former OC of Tala police station Abhijit Mondal—on charges of evidence destruction. However, both individuals were granted bail after the chargesheet was not submitted on time.

As the investigation continues, the focus now shifts to the forthcoming supplementary chargesheet, which aims to provide further clarity on the efforts to obscure the circumstances surrounding the doctor’s tragic death. The outcome of this new chargesheet may offer further insight into the conspiracy behind the case and the individuals involved in the cover-up.
West Bengal

Jagannath Temple in Digha Set to Inaugurate on Akshaya Tritiya; Rath Yatra to Begin This Year

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 26, 2025, Kolkata : After much anticipation, the Jagannath Temple in Digha is set to be inaugurated on April 30, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya. Following the temple’s grand opening, the Rath Yatra will also commence in Digha for the first time this year. This marks a significant milestone for the region, bringing an important cultural and religious event to the coastal town.


In a notable development, a trust has been established to oversee the management of the Jagannath Temple. The trust was formally approved in the cabinet meeting today. State Chief Secretary Manoj Pant has been appointed as the chairman of the temple trust. The trust’s 27-member committee includes representatives from various prominent organizations, such as ISKCON, Puri’s Jagannath Temple, Digha’s Masir Bari, Kalighat Temple, and the Ramakrishna Mission.

During the same meeting, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also announced that the Kalighat skywalk would be inaugurated soon. She emphasized that she did not wish to create unnecessary hype but preferred to work within her capacity to deliver results for the people.

In her address, Mamata Banerjee also brought up the recent tragedies at the Kumbh Mela, which resulted in several deaths due to stampedes. She expressed concern over the incidents, stating, “Yogi Babu may be angry, but I have to tell the truth.” The Chief Minister highlighted that many individuals were trampled while taking a dip in the holy river, and additional accidents occurred during the event. She called on the government to ensure that victims receive compensation for the tragedies, reminding them of the steps taken to prevent similar incidents, particularly concerning the safety measures around the Ganges.

The inauguration of the Jagannath Temple and the commencement of the Rath Yatra will certainly be significant events for the people of Digha, marking a new chapter in the region’s cultural and spiritual life. 
Politics, West Bengal

CPM State Committee Meeting Concludes, Mohammad Selim Reappointed as State Secretary

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 26, 2025, Kolkata : The 27th state committee meeting of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPM] concluded recently, with Mohammad Selim being reappointed as the state secretary. The meeting, which saw the inclusion of 14 women in the new committee, made significant decisions, although there were no major surprises. Notably, the meeting raised several key issues concerning the party’s performance and future direction.


Questions were raised about the CPM’s declining voter share in the Main Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. Party members discussed the reasons behind this decline, asking why Mamata Banerjee’s vote share continues to rise, while Left votes seem to be shifting towards the BJP. These issues were at the center of intense discussions during the conference.

The reappointment of Mohammad Selim as state secretary had long been expected, and it was confirmed at the meeting. Under his leadership, the CPM will again contest the 2026 Assembly elections. The state conference, which began on February 22 in Dankuni, concluded on Tuesday. The conference also saw the induction of 11 new members into the state committee, including Hooghly trade union leader Tirthankar Roy.

While the conference was hailed as a success, it did not go without controversy. Several veteran leaders, including Sushant Ghosh, senior Bankura leader Amiya Patra, Vikas Ranjan Bhattacharya, and North Bengal CPM leader Jeevesh Sarkar, were removed from the state committee. This move surprised many within the party.

Sushant Ghosh’s removal follows a controversy involving a woman’s complaint, after which the party distanced itself from him. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Amiya Patra’s exclusion was due to his age, as he has now been made a special invitee member. Vikas Bhattacharya was also removed from the state committee for the same reason. There were also speculations that Kaltan Dasgupta might be included in the state committee this time. However, he was not kept, as it is believed that his arrest during a movement over the RG tax case tarnished the party’s image.

The reshuffle reflects ongoing tensions within the CPM, particularly with factions that have shown resistance to the party’s leadership and strategies. The CPM will now look to rebuild its base under Selim’s leadership as it prepares for the upcoming elections in a changing political landscape.
Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Congress Makes Special Arrangements for State Convention, Ensures Broad Participation

Leave a comment


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 26, 2025, Kolkata :  As the 26th assembly elections approach, the Trinamool Congress is taking significant measures to ensure that its booth-level party workers can attend the state convention and watch the speech of leader Mamata Banerjee at the Netaji Indoor Stadium, which will outline the party’s overall strategy. The state convention, set for Thursday, February 27, will host over 19 thousand delegates, including the party’s MPs, public representatives from the panchayat level, and district-level leadership from all branch organizations.

To facilitate the participation of workers who cannot attend in person, more than 20 giant screens will be set up around the Netaji Indoor Stadium and the Khudiram Anushilan Kendra. These screens will broadcast Mamata Banerjee’s speech directly to workers across the city and district offices of the Trinamool Congress. The conference will begin at 11 am and conclude at noon with the leader’s speech, with the goal of ensuring delegates from distant districts can return home the same day.

Delegates from various districts began arriving in Kolkata on Wednesday, where they are reaching out to Trinamool Bhavan to collect their delegate cards. On Tuesday, state leadership, including state president Subrata Bakshi, visited Netaji Indoor Stadium to finalize the seating arrangements for the main stage and representatives from various levels of the party. Bakshi also designated the seating for the state leadership, including MPs, MLAs, district presidents, and branch organization leaders.

In addition to the previously listed delegates, instructions have been sent to district presidents to include members from the SC and OBC cells, ST cells, minority cells, farmers and agricultural laborers cells, as well as the Trinamool Youth, Women’s, and INTTUC presidents of Kolkata. Furthermore, members of the state committees of the Trinamool Youth Congress, Trinamool Mahila Congress, State Education Cell, INTTUC, SC-ST-OBC, Kisan Khet Majur, Minority Cell, Media Cell, and IT Cell will also be able to access the indoor venue as representatives. This extensive participation is aimed at unifying the party’s various branches and ensuring that all members are informed and involved in the party’s ongoing strategy.

Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Grapples with Internal Factionalism Ahead of 2026 Assembly Elections

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 23, 2025, Kolkata: With the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections approaching, all political parties, including the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), have begun internal restructuring to strengthen their organizational framework. However, factional conflicts within the TMC have emerged as a significant challenge alongside opposition pressure. Many party leaders have acknowledged that these internal disputes could impact the party’s performance in the upcoming elections. In response, the leadership has intensified efforts to address factionalism at the district level well in advance of the polls.


The process of selecting leaders and workers to ensure party discipline and cohesion has already begun, aiming to prevent internal sabotage during the elections. The urgency of this issue was underscored by Arup Chakraborty, the TMC Member of Parliament from Bankura and the party’s organizational district president in the region. While addressing a meeting of the Women’s Trinamool in Bikna, Bankura, Chakraborty publicly warned against disloyal elements within the party ranks.

“There are many dishonest individuals and traitors who might attempt to betray the party during the elections while remaining under the umbrella of Trinamool,” he stated. Emphasizing party unity, he further cautioned, “Those who create discord against Jora Phool (the party symbol) before the elections will find themselves isolated in their villages.”

Reiterating his stance, Chakraborty later remarked, “If you want to build a party, you have to commit to one party. We do not need workers who remain with the TMC throughout the year but switch allegiance if they do not receive a ticket during elections. The process of identifying such elements has already begun.” His statements signal a decisive move by the TMC to ensure loyalty within its ranks as it prepares for the electoral battle.

Meanwhile, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly criticized the TMC’s approach, highlighting alleged internal conflicts within the ruling party. Former Union Minister Subhash Sarkar claimed that disputes over financial matters have severely undermined trust among TMC workers. He also took a dig at the decision to isolate dissenting members, suggesting that the infighting within the TMC has reached unprecedented levels.

As West Bengal heads toward the crucial 2026 assembly elections, the political landscape remains charged. The TMC faces the dual challenge of resolving its internal rifts while countering opposition attacks. How effectively the party manages these issues will play a crucial role in shaping its electoral prospects in the coming months.
Health, West Bengal

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to Hold Crucial Meeting with Doctors Amid Healthcare Concerns

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 23, 2025, Kolkata :  Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to hold a significant meeting with doctors from government and private hospitals in the state on Monday. The meeting gains importance in the wake of the Ajikar scandal, sparking speculation across various quarters regarding the discussions at Dhandhanya Sabhagriha. Informed circles are questioning whether issues concerning the state’s medical infrastructure will be addressed, while a large section of doctors anticipate discussions on complaints about intimidation practices in medical colleges.


The Grievance and Redressal Committee of the state health department has conducted extensive visits across districts, engaging with doctors associated with medical colleges and district health departments. These discussions have surfaced numerous complaints regarding shortages of resources and medical staff. While some of these concerns have been addressed at the college, district health organization, and chief health officer levels, several systemic issues persist and have been forwarded to the Chief Minister for resolution.

The committee has engaged with doctors from the State Health Service, 24 government and two medical colleges, ESI hospitals, and Kolkata Municipality health facilities. Additionally, discussions have been held with doctors from select private hospitals. The committee has received complaints regarding inadequate infrastructure in district medical colleges, lack of transparency in the posting of doctors, and disruptions in services due to insufficient staffing and equipment. Students and doctors from multiple institutions have also raised concerns about hostel mismanagement, inadequate playgrounds, and substandard toilet facilities. Most of these complaints and recommendations have been formally relayed to the Chief Minister for review.

Committee Chairman Dr. Saurabh Dutta stated that while discussions on institutional concerns have been extensive, the details of what was communicated to the Chief Minister remain confidential and will be disclosed only at her discretion.

Ahead of the meeting, the West Bengal Joint Platform of Doctors has submitted a letter to the Chief Minister highlighting critical vacancies in the healthcare system. The letter points out that approximately 40 percent of doctor positions and nearly 70 percent of support staff posts, including Karmabandhu roles, remain unfilled. Notably, no medical organization has been invited to this crucial meeting between the Chief Minister and representatives from government and private hospitals. The meeting’s outcome is expected to have a significant impact on the state’s healthcare landscape as the government seeks to address mounting concerns ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.
Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Strengthens Social Media Efforts Ahead of 2026 Assembly Elections

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 23, 2025, Kolkata :  With the 2026 assembly elections approaching, the ruling Trinamool Congress has intensified its social media efforts to shape its electoral strategy. Speculation has arisen regarding Trinamool’s reliance on social media campaigns and whether it is shifting focus from AIPAC to alternative organizations for digital outreach. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has launched a counter-attack, questioning Trinamool’s evolving digital strategy.


To lay out a structured approach for the upcoming elections, Habra Assembly MLA Jyotipriya Mallick convened an emergency meeting with an organization called FAM at a function house in the Habra Hijal Pukur area on Sunday. This organization has been tasked with promoting Trinamool’s development initiatives across social media platforms. The effort aims to strengthen the party’s presence in the digital space and counter misinformation while engaging with voters effectively.

FAM will operate in 24 wards of Habra Municipality, with five Trinamool workers from each ward collaborating with the organization to enhance the party’s digital reach. This initiative marks an intensified effort by Trinamool to establish a structured online campaign ahead of the assembly elections. The ruling party is taking proactive steps to ensure that its achievements and initiatives are effectively communicated to the public while addressing concerns over misleading narratives circulating on social media.

Following the meeting, MLA Jyotipriya Mallick emphasized that this organization would extend its activities across various parts of the district. The move underscores Trinamool’s commitment to leveraging digital platforms for voter engagement and ensuring that its political messaging reaches a broader audience in a strategic and coordinated manner.