Politics, West Bengal

Opposition Demands Arrest of Health Secretary Over Poisonous Saline Scandal

Leave a comment

KalimNews, January 12, 2025, Kolkata : Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Subhendu Adhikari, has demanded the immediate arrest of Health Secretary Narayanswarup Nigam in connection with the ongoing poisonous saline controversy. Adhikari alleged that fake medicines and saline are being supplied in exchange for money, endangering the lives of poor patients. He also linked the scandal to what he termed “Kalighat’s yoga,” suggesting corrupt connections involving Mukul Ghosh, the Director of West Bengal Pharmaceuticals.


Adhikari made these statements while addressing the media at a blood donation camp in Howrah. He claimed that a blacklisted company was awarded the tender to supply saline, despite its expiration in 2022.

“A lot will unfold in this matter. We have demanded that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigate this incident thoroughly. I have informed Naddaji (referring to BJP National President J.P. Nadda), and central authorities will look into this. Narayanswarup Nigam must be taken into custody, and Mukul Ghosh, who is allegedly linked to Kalighat, should be investigated for supplying fake medicines in exchange for bribes,” Adhikari stated. He also requested the Union Health Minister to involve the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) in the probe.

The issue has sparked widespread panic, particularly after a pregnant woman died due to a saline failure at Medinipur Medical College Hospital. Three other patients remain critical, with two on ventilation as doctors work tirelessly to save their lives. Banned saline stocks have since been removed from the hospital. However, questions remain about how the prohibited product entered the district hospital from the medical college despite the ban. Additionally, a prohibition has been issued on the use of seven more drugs at the facility.

Political analysts consider Adhikari’s demand for the arrest of the health secretary significant, particularly as it implicates high-ranking officials. Allegations have also surfaced against the state Health Minister, further escalating the political tensions surrounding the scandal.

Adding to the outcry, senior CPM leader and lawyer Vikas Ranjan Bhattacharya supported the call for an investigation. “There should be a thorough inquiry; there is no room for debate on this. It is the moral responsibility of the government to identify and hold the criminals accountable,” he said.

The scandal has ignited fierce debates over accountability and governance in the state’s healthcare system, with demands for immediate corrective action to ensure patient safety and transparency.
Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Congress Honours Social Media Workers on Youth Day with Statewide Reception

Leave a comment


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 12, 2025, Kolkata : In a grand event marking Youth Day, the Trinamool Congress hosted a state reception meeting in the Rajarhat South Assembly constituency of Kolkata today. The gathering, jointly organized by Trinamool Congress’s social media initiatives Bangla Hridoy Mamata and Bharat Hridoy Mamata, celebrated the contributions of social media workers who have actively supported the party throughout the year. Workers were felicitated and presented with identity cards, while strategies for the upcoming 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections were outlined.

The event began with floral tributes to Swami Vivekananda in honor of Youth Day, paying homage to his ideals of strength and unity. Among the prominent attendees were Sheikh Raju Master, founder of Trinamool Social Media Congress; Mohan Singh Roy, Executive President of the State Committee; Moni Lal Majhi, member of Rajarhat South; Shrikant Ghosh, President of Polba-Dadpur Block Kisan Morcha in Hooghly Serampur Organizational District; Abhishek Gupta, State Coordinator of Bangla Hridoy Mamata; Arun Kumar Dey, spokesperson; and Ward No. 3 Councilor along with numerous Trinamool workers from districts across the state.

The ceremony opened with a warm welcome to the dignitaries, who were presented with bouquets and garlands. This was followed by speeches from the key leaders, interspersed with a musical program. Discussions centered on leveraging social media outreach to secure electoral success in the 2026 assembly polls.

Mohan Singh Roy, the State Committee’s Working President, addressed the media post-event, emphasizing the party’s commitment to victory. “From today onwards, our preparations for 2026 have officially begun. We are determined to ensure that every seat in West Bengal is handed over to Mamata Banerjee. Our team will work tirelessly to eliminate the opposition and solidify the Trinamool Congress’s hold on Bengal,” he said.

The event served as a morale booster for party workers and reiterated Trinamool’s strategy to strengthen its grassroots and digital presence, aiming for another term in governance under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership.

Politics, West Bengal

Protest Held in Front of BJP Office in Bengal Over Delay in 100 Days of Work Funding

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata: A protest broke out in Salt Lake on Saturday, raising questions about the central government’s delay in releasing funds for the 100 days of work scheme, which has been pending for three years. Members of several organizations, including the West Bengal Farmer’s Association and the Workers’ Women’s Association, gathered in front of the BJP state office in Sector Five, demanding an explanation for the state’s deprivation of the funds.

The protesters, numbering around 100, voiced their frustration with the slogan: “Why is the BJP government not getting the money for 100 days of work for three years? Answer me!” The situation grew tense as the protest escalated, and the demonstrators directed their chants towards BJP Rajya Sabha MP Shamik Bhattacharya, who arrived at the office during the protest.

In response to the growing unrest, Bhattacharya, visibly agitated, urged the protesters to address their concerns with the state government at Nabanna, insisting, “This is not a government office, this is a BJP office.” He also made allegations that the protesters were politically motivated and threatened to have them removed if the police did not intervene. However, the protesters remained firm in their demand for a resolution.

After some time, Bhattacharya agreed to meet with a delegation of five protesters. The group submitted a deputation to him, urging action on the issue of the 100 days of work funding. Following the meeting, Bhattacharya addressed the crowd outside the office, stating that he would bring the matter to the attention of the central government. He promised to provide an update on the situation by February 7.

The issue of delayed payments for the 100 days of work scheme has been a point of contention between the state and central governments for years. Despite repeated appeals from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, including strong demands from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the central government has not yet released the owed funds. As protests continue, the central government’s response remains awaited.

Health, West Bengal

Expired Saline Linked to Pregnant Woman’s Death at Medinipur Hospital; Health Department Orders Inquiry

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata:West Bengal has been rocked by a scandal involving expired saline that allegedly led to the death of a pregnant woman at Medinipur Medical College and Hospital. The deceased, Mamoni Rui Das, 21, gave birth to a baby on Wednesday but her condition rapidly worsened on Thursday after being administered the saline. She was moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) but tragically succumbed to her condition on Friday. Seven other pregnant women who were also given the same saline are now critically ill and are receiving treatment in the ICU.


The saline in question, Ringer Lactate, was later found to be expired, sparking outrage. Despite the incident, the saline continued to be used in hospitals for several hours. The West Bengal Health Department has since intervened, ordering an immediate inquiry into the matter and calling for the replacement of the existing saline stock with a fresh batch. The department has also demanded a detailed report from the principal of Medinipur Medical College regarding the alleged negligence and an explanation for the stocking of expired saline in the hospital.

In response to the crisis, the health department moved quickly to ban not just Ringer Lactate, but a range of other products from the same company, West Bengal Pharmaceuticals. The company’s products that have been banned include:

Ringer Lactate
Ringer Solution IP Injection
Dextrorose Injection
Mannitol Infusion
Paracetamol Infusion
Ofloxacin
1/2 DNS
Sodium Chloride Irrigation Solution
Pediatric Maintenance Electrolyte Solution

The use of these medications has been halted in hospitals across the state. Efforts are now underway to collect and remove these products from hospital wards.

In the wake of the incident, the hospital authorities have formed a 10-member committee to investigate the cause of the death and the circumstances surrounding the use of expired saline. The health department has also issued a formal ban on saline products manufactured by West Bengal Pharmaceuticals, the company responsible for supplying the contaminated stock.

This latest scandal has drawn attention to the dangers of expired medical products being used in healthcare settings. Last year, similar saline from the same company was linked to the deaths of four individuals in Karnataka. The West Bengal Health Department’s swift response to the crisis underscores the gravity of the situation, as public health safety becomes a key concern for authorities.

Relatives of the affected patients have filed formal complaints with the police, demanding accountability for the negligence that led to the tragic loss of life and critical illnesses. As investigations continue, the health department has promised to take necessary actions to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
Crime, Education, West Bengal

Court Advances Investigation in West Bengal Teacher Recruitment Corruption Case, Names Key Figures

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata: The corruption scandal surrounding teacher recruitment in West Bengal is set to take a significant turn with a recent court decision, as the names of several high-profile figures continue to emerge in connection with the case. Among those implicated are prominent leaders from the state’s ruling party, including former education minister Partha Chatterjee, who has been in jail for over two years on charges of accepting large sums of money in exchange for jobs.


One of the central figures in the ongoing investigation is Sujoy Krishna Bhadra, also known as ‘Kalighater Kaku,’ a key accused who has been under close scrutiny since the beginning of the case. Bhadra, who was granted bail by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to the recruitment scandal last year, was later taken into custody by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with a separate case. He is currently hospitalized after being arrested by the CBI. The court has requested regular medical reports concerning his health status.

The court recently advanced the case by framing charges against several individuals, including Bhadra, his wife, and Partha Chatterjee’s son-in-law Kalyanmoy Bhattacharya, along with other key figures such as Kuntal Ghosh, Arpita Mukherjee, and Manik Bhattacharya’s wife and son. In addition, charges have been filed against 26 organizations implicated in the widespread recruitment corruption.

The investigation has garnered significant attention due to the involvement of high-ranking political figures and the magnitude of the alleged corruption. As the case progresses, it is expected to continue to unfold with further revelations about the extent of the scandal and the people connected to it. The court’s decision to move forward with the framing of charges marks a critical step in bringing accountability to the recruitment process that has been marred by allegations of bribery and misconduct.
Politics, West Bengal

Center Allocates ₹13,017 Crore to West Bengal Amid Tensions Over Pending Dues

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Delhi: The ongoing tension between the central and state governments over financial disputes continues to escalate. For the past few years, the state of West Bengal has been embroiled in a conflict with the central government, accusing it of withholding funds. The state claims that the center has failed to pay outstanding dues, while the center argues that future allocations are contingent on the state accounting for the funds already disbursed.


In the midst of these strained relations, the central government has made a significant move by allocating ₹13,017 crore to West Bengal for taxes ahead of the Union Budget, which is set to be presented on February 1, 2025. The total allocation for the state this time amounts to ₹1,70,030 crore, according to official statements from the Modi government. This funding is intended to assist the state in carrying out crucial development projects and addressing various public welfare needs.

While the central government emphasizes that the funds will support Bengal’s development, the state government maintains that this allocation primarily represents money owed to them from previous financial commitments. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has repeatedly pointed out that despite the state’s top ranking in housing schemes, Bengal has received no financial assistance for such initiatives. She also claimed that the state’s poor population has been deprived for the past three years, prompting the state to allocate its own resources for welfare projects.

As the center’s financial support may provide some relief, the state continues to highlight the pressing need for substantial investments in infrastructure and public welfare. The upcoming budget will likely be a critical moment in resolving these tensions, with both sides eager to secure the resources necessary for the state’s development and the well-being of its citizens.
International, West Bengal

Bangaon Mayor Criticizes BSF for Infiltration Concerns; BJP Dismisses Allegations

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Bangaon: Tensions along the India-Bangladesh border have escalated in recent months, with concerns over infiltration and criminal activities increasing in the border town of Bangaon in North 24 Parganas, West Bengal. The situation has prompted a strong response from local officials, including Bangaon Municipality Mayor Gopal Seth, who has expressed dissatisfaction with the Border Security Force’s (BSF) role in securing the area.


In a letter to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Seth accused the BSF of being inactive in curbing cross-border infiltration. He claimed that criminal activities in the region have surged as Bangladeshi miscreants take advantage of the BSF’s perceived inaction. Seth also highlighted significant gaps in border security, such as the lack of adequate CCTV surveillance, insufficient barbed wire in a stretch of about 20 kilometers, and a shortage of troops, with only four battalions guarding the border.

Seth further raised concerns over the presence of Bangladeshi nationals with multi-purpose visas staying in various hotels in Bangaon and traveling to other states, urging greater vigilance and stricter monitoring. He also pointed out that some BSF jawans were reportedly residing in rented houses in the area, questioning why they were not staying in their official accommodations.

The mayor emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between state and central authorities to ensure the security of the region, calling for heightened vigilance by the police and the BSF. Seth’s letter, which outlined these concerns, was addressed to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, the State Chief Secretary, the BSF South Bengal Frontier IG, the North 24 Parganas District Magistrate, and the Bangaon Police Superintendent.

In response to these allegations, Bangaon Organizational District BJP President Devdas Mandal strongly refuted the claims, calling them “baseless.” Mandal expressed confidence in the BSF’s capabilities, stating that the force’s dedicated service allows the people of the region to sleep peacefully, without fear of infiltration or security threats.

As the debate intensifies over border security and infiltration concerns, local authorities, residents, and political leaders remain divided on the effectiveness of the current measures in place.
West Bengal

Bengal to Launch India’s First NG Electric Ferry Vessel

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata: Marking a milestone in sustainable transport, Bengal is set to unveil the country’s first next-generation (NG) electric ferry vessel. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will formally inaugurate this cutting-edge e-vessel at a ceremony at Millennium Park. The initiative aligns with the state government’s commitment to promoting eco-friendly transportation.


Transport Minister Snehashis Chakraborty emphasized the environmental benefits of the electric-powered vessel, stating, “This e-vessel will play a significant role in reducing pollution. It will provide passengers with enhanced safety and greater comfort.” The innovative vessel, built by the renowned Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), features modern design and facilities aimed at making river transport more sustainable and passenger-friendly.

The ferry has separate air-conditioned (AC) and non-air-conditioned (non-AC) sections. The AC section can accommodate 30 passengers, while the non-AC section has a capacity of 62. The vessel is designed to ply the route from Millennium Park to Dakshineswar via Belur Math, offering passengers a comfortable and efficient way to navigate the Hooghly River.

An official from the Transport Department highlighted the significant efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the vessel, explaining, “Traditional launches with a 150-passenger capacity consume 10 liters of diesel per hour. In contrast, this electric battery-powered ferry can operate continuously for up to two hours or cover 30 kilometers on a single charge.” The vessel’s advanced electric propulsion system promises not only lower operational costs but also reduced carbon emissions, setting a benchmark for future initiatives.

The launch of this electric ferry vessel is a testament to Bengal’s leadership in adopting green technologies in public transport. It symbolizes a crucial step toward cleaner and more sustainable urban mobility, benefiting both the environment and the passengers who depend on the state’s extensive water transport network.
Crime, West Bengal

Three Impostors Posing as MVI Officers Arrested in Balagarh

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Balagarh: In a swift operation, Balagarh police arrested three individuals posing as Motor Vehicles Inspector (MVI) officers and extorting money from motorists. The arrests took place at Ghoshpukur intersection in Somra No. 2 panchayat area following a complaint from a car driver who had been targeted by the impostors.


According to police reports, the three youths were collecting money from various vehicles under the guise of MVI officers. The situation came to light when a car driver reported their activities to the Balagarh police station, revealing that he too had been coerced into paying them. Acting on the written complaint, police officers rushed to the scene and detained the suspects. Upon interrogation, the three admitted they were not affiliated with the MVI, exposing their fraudulent activities.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Ranjit Shil (32), Pankaj Mandal (35), and Jayanta Das (38), all residents of Sheoraphuli, Hooghly. During a press conference held at Balagarh police station, Officer-in-Charge Somdev Patra, Circle Inspector Soumen Biswas, and DSP Crime Abhijit Sinha Mohapatra provided further details of the operation. DSP Mohapatra confirmed the recovery of a Scorpio car used by the suspects, along with several incriminating documents. He added that investigations into other aspects of the case are ongoing.

The arrested trio will be presented in court today. This incident underscores the vigilance of law enforcement and the importance of prompt reporting by citizens to combat fraud and ensure public safety.
Crime, West Bengal

Sealdah Court to Announce Verdict in Tilottama Case, Justice Awaits

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata: The Sealdah court is set to announce its verdict on Saturday, January 18, at 2:30 pm, in the tragic case surrounding the death of young doctor Tilottama at RG Kar Medical College. The incident, which occurred on August 9, caused widespread outrage and raised serious questions about security and accountability within the healthcare system. The judgment comes 5 months and 9 days after the incident that shook the state and the nation.


The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has concluded its investigation and presented its findings to the court. Alongside the agency’s case, Tilottama’s parents have filed a separate application, voicing their belief that more individuals were involved in the crime beyond the accused, Sanjay Rai. They have urged the court to identify and bring to justice any additional culprits. Their statements were also heard in court during the closed-door proceedings on Thursday.

As the court prepares to deliver its judgment, the demand for the harshest punishment for the accused has been reiterated by both the CBI and Tilottama’s grieving parents. The verdict is expected to provide clarity on the accountability for this devastating incident, which has highlighted critical gaps in safety and stirred calls for systemic reform.

All eyes are now on the Sealdah court, where the verdict will finally reveal the outcome of a case that has captured the attention and emotions of the entire state.
National, Politics

Prime Minister Modi Clarifies Past ‘Non-Biological’ Remark, Sparks Renewed Controversy

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks from a past speech have once again ignited a heated debate, following his recent appearance on a podcast hosted by Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha. The podcast, which featured the Prime Minister as a guest, offered glimpses of his reflections, including an acknowledgment of a controversial statement he made during his tenure as Chief Minister.


In the podcast, Modi addressed the earlier comment, stating, “I am also an ordinary person. I am not a god.” He further added, “I made an inappropriate comment in a speech while I was the Chief Minister. But I make mistakes too. I am also human.” The precise context of his clarification remains unclear, but it appears to reference a remark made before the Lok Sabha elections, where Modi had declared, “When my mother was alive, I thought that I was born through a biological process. But after my mother’s death, I have become convinced from various experiences that the Supreme Spirit has sent me. I have not received this much strength from any biological process. God wants me to work, that is why He has given me this strength. He has also given me the ability, the goodwill, and the inspiration.” At the time, this statement sparked widespread criticism and was interpreted by many as a self-comparison to a divine incarnation.

The recent clarification, however, has not quelled the controversy. Opposition parties, including the Congress, have continued to mock the Prime Minister, referring to him as a “non-biological” Prime Minister. This renewed backlash highlights the enduring impact of the original statement, as well as the polarized political discourse surrounding Modi’s leadership.
Politics, West Bengal

Abhishek Banerjee Faces Setback as Kunal Ghosh’s Call for Artist Boycott Gains Ground

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata : The ongoing RG Kar movement has become a flashpoint for political tensions in West Bengal, with the latest developments showing a shift in favor of Trinamool leader Kunal Ghosh. Despite Abhishek Banerjee’s public statement advocating for the right of artists to protest and asserting that no artist’s program should be canceled, the reality seems to be quite different as artists are now facing growing pressure.


On Thursday, the RG Kar movement marked its five-month milestone. Artist Devleena, who has been actively involved in the movement and attended every program in Shyambazar, spoke out about the widespread cancellations of her performances. She shared that despite being invited to various events this winter, all of her programs had been abruptly canceled. Devleena, known for her prominent participation in protests and her visible “We Want Justice” badge, claimed that her participation in movements post-RG Kar case has led to this fallout.

In an emotional statement, Devleena expressed her concerns about the stifling of artistic freedom in the state, calling the situation dangerous for democracy. “They are trying to kill us. I am also on that list. The artistic community of West Bengal is being strangled,” she said. Devleena further claimed to have evidence showing how organizers have been pressured into canceling her performances. She shared messages from event organizers apologizing for their inability to host her due to political reasons, saying, “Didi, I cannot bring you due to political reasons. Please forgive me.”

The issue has sparked significant discussion within the civic community, with many questioning the sincerity of Abhishek Banerjee’s previous assurances that no artist would face discrimination for their political views. The question now arises: did Abhishek Banerjee’s words hold any weight, or has Kunal Ghosh’s call for a boycott of artists critical of the government prevailed? This ongoing saga has raised alarm over the shrinking space for artistic expression and the increasing politicization of cultural events in West Bengal.
Religion, West Bengal

Celebrating Swami Vivekananda’s Legacy: “Swami Vivekananda Milan Mela” Inaugurated in Kolkata

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata :  The “Swami Vivekananda Milan Mela” commenced today in celebration of Swami Vivekananda’s 162nd birth anniversary. The fair was officially inaugurated by distinguished guests who lit the ceremonial lamp at Kali Singhi Park. This event, organized jointly by Vivekananda Pathachak and Sanskar Bharati, will continue for the next five days and is open to the public with free entry.


The inaugural ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Swami Gyanolokananda Maharaj, Secretary of Swami Vivekananda’s ancestral home, Colonel (retd) Sabyasachi Bagchi, Sanghadhyak of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Girishananda Maharaj, and renowned lawyer Anindya Kumar Mitra. In his address, Swami Gyanolokananda Maharaj highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “Vivekananda Milan Mela is an occasion for unity among all. Swamiji’s life and ideology show a new direction in the life of every person.”

Colonel Sabyasachi Bagchi emphasized the importance of Vivekananda’s birthplace, noting, “Swami Vivekananda’s birthplace is our workplace. Our main objective is to present his ideals to everyone.” Girishananda Maharaj added, “Our goal is to reach Swamiji’s knowledge and spiritual ideals to the common people.” Anindya Kumar Mitra called the fair a unique platform to spread Swamiji’s ideology and ideals.

Sudip Dutta, General Secretary of Vivekananda Pathachakra, mentioned that the fair’s primary objective is to bring together people from all walks of life under the banner of Swamiji’s teachings. Subhash Bhattacharya, Vice President and Executive President of Sanskar Bharati West Bengal, shared that they have been celebrating this birth anniversary since 1970, and over the past 15 years, the event has evolved into a grand fair aimed at spreading Swamiji’s philosophy on a larger scale.

The five-day fair will feature a variety of cultural programs, lectures, and exhibitions that aim to educate the public about Swami Vivekananda’s life and philosophy. Organizers hope that the event will serve as a significant gathering for the community, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of Swamiji’s enduring influence on society.
National, West Bengal

Brahmachari Vinod: The Revolutionary Spirit Behind Swami Pranabanandaji Maharaj

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  January 10, 2025, Kolkata : 

Brahmachari Vinod, later known as Yugacharya Shrimat Swami Pranabanandaji Maharaj, was not only a freedom fighter but also a spiritual luminary, a nation builder, and a reformer. Born on January 29, 1896, in the village of Bajitpur in Madaripur district to Vishnucharan Bhuiyan and Sarada Devi, his early life was marked by a profound sense of justice and spirituality.

As a young man, Vinod joined the revolutionary Madaripur Samiti, dedicating himself to India’s freedom movement. Arrested in 1914 during the Faridpur conspiracy case, he endured imprisonment but emerged with an unbroken resolve. After his release, he actively sheltered and trained revolutionaries, equipping them with weapons and providing essential support, all while harboring a deep love for his motherland.

In 1913, at the age of 17, Vinod embraced spirituality, taking initiation from Mahayogi Baba Gambhirnathji of Gorakhpur. By 1916, he had achieved spiritual perfection. His transformation from a revolutionary to a spiritual guide culminated in 1924 during the Ardhakumbha Mela in Prayag, where Swami Govindanand Giri formally initiated him into sannyas, renaming him Swami Pranabananda.

Vinod’s father, Vishnucharan Bhuiyan, who faced false accusations while protecting villagers from oppressive landlords, sought divine refuge in their household deity Neelrudra. This sense of justice and resilience undoubtedly influenced young Vinod’s revolutionary and spiritual pursuits.

Swami Pranabanandaji Maharaj’s life is a testament to the seamless blend of activism and spirituality, where a burning passion for freedom met a profound dedication to inner enlightenment.Vinod’s transformative spiritual journey began in 1913 when he took initiation from Mahayogi Baba Gambhirnathji of Gorakhpur. Attaining spiritual perfection by 1916, he embraced sannyas in 1924 during the Ardhakumbha Mela in Prayag under Swami Govindanand Giri, becoming Swami Pranabananda. As the founder of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha and Sri Sri Pranav Math, Swamiji dedicated his life to blending ancient Hindu spirituality with modern societal needs.

Swami Pranabanandaji Maharaj is remembered as one of the greatest spiritual leaders of modern India. He sought to usher Hindu society into the modern age while preserving its essential values. His legacy endures in his teachings of universal love, compassion, and social reform, all infused with an unwavering zeal for the motherland. Swamiji’s contributions as a yogi, nation builder, and freedom fighter continue to inspire reverence and admiration across generations.

National, West Bengal

UGC Reiterates List of Fake Universities; Students Advised to Verify Credentials Before Admission

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 10, 2025, Kolkata : 

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has once again urged students to exercise caution and verify the credentials of universities before seeking admission. The UGC emphasized that only institutions recognized and registered under the UGC Act, 1956, have the legal authority to award degrees in India.

In May 2024, the UGC published a list of fake universities operating without proper accreditation. This list, which remains unchanged, has recently resurfaced on social media. These institutions continue to mislead students despite the UGC’s warnings. The following universities are included in the list of unrecognized institutions:
  1. Christ New Testament Deemed University, Guntur
  2. Bible Open University of India, Vizag
  3. AIIPHS Government University, Delhi
  4. Commercial University Limited, Delhi
  5. United Nations University, Delhi
  6. Vocational University, Delhi
  7. ADR Centric Jurisprudential University, Delhi
  8. IISE, Delhi
  9. Vishwakarma Open University for Self Employment, Delhi
  10. Spiritual University, Delhi
  11. Baraganvi Sarkar World Open University, Belgaum
  12. St. John’s University, Kerala
  13. IIUPM, Kozhikode
The UGC’s repeated alerts highlight the importance of safeguarding students from falling prey to fraudulent institutions. Students are strongly encouraged to refer to the official UGC website for the latest list of recognized universities and ensure that their chosen institutions meet the required standards before proceeding with admission.
West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee to Hold Key Meeting with Doctors Following Grievance Cell Initiative

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 10, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to meet with doctors from medical colleges, district hospitals, state general hospitals, and private healthcare institutions, alongside medical students, on February 24 at the Dhandhanya Auditorium. This pivotal meeting follows a proposal from the State Grievance Cell, which the Chief Minister has accepted.


The State Grievance Cell, established in the wake of the Tilottama incident, has been addressing numerous complaints from healthcare professionals in recent months. Dr. Saurabh Dutt, the cell’s chairman, highlighted the importance of direct communication between the Chief Minister and both junior and senior doctors to address their concerns. The proposal for this meeting was motivated by the need for dialogue and understanding within the healthcare community, and it has received the Chief Minister’s endorsement.

This initiative follows a similar effort by Trinamool MP Abhishek Banerjee, who last year organized a coordination meeting with over a thousand doctors at the Amtala Samadhi Auditorium in Diamond Harbour. That gathering, overseen by Trinamool doctor leader Shantanu Sen, aimed to strengthen ties between healthcare workers and policymakers.

Unlike the earlier event, the current meeting is being organized independently by the State Grievance Cell, marking a shift in approach. Observers are keen to see what message Mamata Banerjee will deliver, particularly in light of the prior gathering led by Abhishek Banerjee.

This meeting underscores the government’s commitment to addressing healthcare challenges through open dialogue and collaboration with medical professionals.
West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee Inaugurates Gangasagar Mela, Ushers in Sustainable Initiatives

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 10, 2025, Kolkata — West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the annual Gangasagar Mela at Outram Ghat, continuing the state’s tradition of hosting this prominent event. She commenced the ceremony by paying homage to Swami Vivekananda, offering a wreath at his portrait to honor his legacy.


In a significant step towards sustainable development, the Chief Minister launched ‘Dheu,’ India’s first NG (Natural Gas) electric ferry vessel. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance the water transport system by offering a cleaner, safer, and more comfortable commuting experience, thereby addressing environmental concerns and boosting economic efficiency.

To further bolster the state’s firefighting and emergency response capabilities, 25 fire engines equipped with 5,000-liter mounted pumps, 25 medium-sized fire engines with 2,500-liter capacity, and a new fire station in Jangipur, Murshidabad, were commissioned during the event. These additions represent a commitment to ensuring public safety and preparedness for emergencies.

The Chief Minister expressed optimism about the arrangements for the Gangasagar Mela, emphasizing the meticulous planning undertaken by the government. “From health to security, transportation to administration, everything has been well-coordinated,” she stated. She urged pilgrims to adhere to the guidelines and participate in the holy bath responsibly, underscoring the government’s dedication to round-the-clock service for the event’s success.

The inauguration highlights the administration’s focus on both tradition and progress, blending cultural reverence with innovative advancements to benefit the community.
error: Content is protected !!
Exit mobile version