National, Politics

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Passes Away, National Mourning Declared

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 27, 2024, New Delhi : Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, known as the architect of India’s economic reforms, passed away late Thursday night at AIIMS in Delhi, leaving the nation in mourning. Politicians from all political parties have come together to honor his legacy, acknowledging his immense contributions to the country’s economic development and governance.


Singh’s death has elicited tributes from across the political spectrum, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP President JP Nadda, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and several other politicians expressing their sorrow. President Draupadi Murmu also remembered Singh’s scholarly approach and his pivotal role in shaping India’s administration.

Mamata Banerjee, in her tribute on social media, described Singh as a leader who “worked silently,” while Trinamool MP Abhishek Banerjee stated that the country has lost a great statesman. Singh’s influence on India’s growth trajectory remains unparalleled, particularly in terms of economic liberalization and fiscal policy.

On Friday, Singh’s body was kept at his residence in Delhi for public and political leaders to pay their respects. Among the visitors were Prime Minister Modi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Amit Shah, and several senior leaders from across the political spectrum. His youngest daughter, who teaches in California, is expected to return to India on Friday afternoon, and the former Prime Minister’s last rites will be held with full state honors on Saturday.

Following the last rites, Singh’s ashes will be taken to the Congress headquarters for the public to pay their final respects. In recognition of his invaluable service to the nation, the central government has declared seven days of national mourning.
Politics, West Bengal

Heightened Security Measures for Subhendu Adhikari Amid Threats from Bangladeshi Militants

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 27, 2024, Kolkata : In light of growing concerns over potential threats from Bangladeshi militants, the central and state governments have ramped up security for opposition leader Subhendu Adhikari. Intelligence sources indicate that there are credible fears of an attack on Adhikari, prompting an array of stringent security measures at his public appearances and during his travels.


It has been revealed that a ‘D zone’ will be established at all of Adhikari’s meetings, creating a significant security buffer around him. Central intelligence agencies will be closely monitoring all events, and security personnel will be on high alert. During outdoor events, central security guards will be armed with shields and firearms, and Adhikari will not address the media or interact with the public from the stage. He will answer questions from the press only after the meeting has concluded.

Police sources confirmed that security arrangements will include a fortified convoy with 22 armed personnel. At traffic signals, other security vehicles will strategically surround Adhikari’s car, ensuring maximum protection. When traveling through high-risk areas, bulletproof vehicles will be deployed. In addition, arrangements are being made for female security guards to accompany Adhikari, especially in sensitive situations.

Special attention will also be given to the security at the Assembly, with measures to prevent crowds from gathering near Gate No. 2 during Adhikari’s entry and exit. Both state and central authorities have made it clear that there will be no compromise on the leader’s security, reinforcing their commitment to ensuring his safety in the face of growing threats.
West Bengal

Kolkata Police Officer’s Husband Missing, Search Underway

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 27, 2024, Kolkata :  The husband of Shanti Das Basak, a female officer of the Kolkata Police, has gone missing since Thursday, sparking concern within her family and the community. Shanti, who is in charge of Raj Bhavan security, filed a missing person report at the Penro police station in Howrah on Thursday morning after her husband, Dipanjan, did not return home the previous night.


According to Shanti, Dipanjan had left their home on Thursday, heading towards Howrah, but there has been no trace of him since. She described his behavior in the days leading up to his disappearance as troubling, noting that he had seemed withdrawn, unmotivated, and in a persistent bad mood. Shanti expressed deep concern, stating, “My husband cannot be found. For the last few days, he seemed reluctant to engage with anything and was dissatisfied with everything.” She also shared her intention to seek counseling for him once he returns, as his recent behavior had raised alarm.

In an effort to locate her husband, Shanti turned to social media, posting a photo of Dipanjan and appealing for any information that could help. “My husband Dipanjan cannot be found. The entire family is very worried. If anyone has any information about him, please let us know,” she wrote in her post.

Shanti Das Basak is well-regarded within the Kolkata Police for her dedication to duty and has previously served with the Human Rights Commission. Her colleagues and the local community are rallying around her as the search for Dipanjan continues.
Education, West Bengal

West Bengal Government Launches ‘Shiksha Sathi’ Project to Provide Affordable Notebooks for Students

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 26, 2024 – In a bid to ease the financial burden on students and their families, the West Bengal government has unveiled a new initiative called the ‘Shiksha Sathi’ project. Announced on Christmas, this project aims to provide affordable notebooks to students amid rising prices of study materials across the state.


The ‘Shiksha Sathi’ initiative will offer notebooks at prices considerably lower than the market rate. With the increasing cost of essential educational supplies such as books and notebooks, this move is expected to provide significant relief to both students and their parents. The notebooks will be produced by the state’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Department, in collaboration with Shilpabarta Printing Press Limited, which has previously handled various state government printing projects. However, the press will be modernized to meet the demand for new and high-quality notebooks.

Under the new project, three types of notebooks will be available. Two of them will be 100-page notebooks, priced at just ₹70 each, while a special 100-page notebook will be sold for only ₹37. Despite the lower price, the government has assured that the quality of these notebooks will be on par with premium market options. The notebooks will also feature information about various government social welfare schemes and their benefits, offering students a useful guide alongside their study material.

Currently, these government-subsidized notebooks will be available for purchase at Manjusha stalls, Consumer Cooperative Forums, and government fairs. In the near future, the notebooks will also be made available at ration shops across the state, making them accessible to a larger number of students.

The initiative has been met with widespread appreciation from both students and parents, who see this as a welcome move to reduce the financial strain on households, especially in light of the rising costs of education-related materials.

Education Minister Cha, while announcing the project, highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the education sector and ensuring that quality resources are accessible to students from all backgrounds.
Business, Economy, West Bengal

West Bengal Government to Build District-Level Shopping Malls, Announcing New Projects in Alipore

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 26, 2024 – In a significant end-of-year announcement, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee revealed plans to construct shopping malls in various districts across West Bengal. 


Addressing the media at a press conference held at Nabanna Sabhagriha on Thursday afternoon, Banerjee stated that the state government would allocate land to entrepreneurs for the establishment of these malls. The initiative aims to boost the local economy by fostering job creation and providing a platform for local artisans and self-help groups.

In a move to ensure inclusivity, the Chief Minister emphasized that each mall will feature two dedicated floors for members of local self-help groups and artisans, giving them a space to sell their goods. Banerjee expressed optimism that this project would strengthen the economic fabric at the grassroots level, providing a boost to district-level commerce.

Sharing an anecdote to highlight the importance of such development, Banerjee recalled a conversation with a young man from a district who had handed her a note expressing concern over the lack of shopping malls in the region. In response, the Chief Minister assured that the new malls would offer modern amenities similar to those in Kolkata, including cafeterias, restaurants, and cinema halls. She emphasized that the presence of modern cinema facilities in the districts would significantly increase the distribution and screening of Bengali films.

To kick-start the project, Banerjee announced the identification of land for the first mall, which will be built on the vacant plot opposite the Alipore Zoo in South 24 Parganas. Additionally, she disclosed plans for a direct sales center for leather goods, as well as a sales center dedicated to Bengali sarees, both of which will be constructed on land opposite the Alipore Museum.

This initiative marks a major step in the state government’s broader vision of decentralizing development and creating economic opportunities in the districts, with a focus on empowering local businesses and artisans. The Chief Minister’s announcement has been welcomed by various sectors, with many anticipating a significant positive impact on local economies and job creation in the coming years.
Politics, West Bengal

Allegations Surface Over BJP Leaders Receiving Housing Benefits Through Direct Contact with Chief Minister’s Office in Panshkura

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 26, 2024, Kolkata :

 A political controversy has erupted in Panshkura following claims that several BJP leaders and workers received financial aid for housing construction by directly contacting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s office. The ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has responded by defending the Chief Minister’s impartiality, stating that she does not consider political affiliations when distributing benefits.

According to sources, a number of BJP leaders, including panchayat members and their relatives, have allegedly used personal influence to secure housing assistance under the state’s housing scheme. The controversy centers on individuals such as Uttam Mandal, the brother-in-law of Chanda Jana Mandal, the BJP president of Haur Gram Panchayat in Panshkura block. Uttam Mandal, described as an active BJP worker, reportedly received funds for house construction after directly contacting the Chief Minister’s office.

Mandal himself confirmed the claim, stating that he had been previously excluded from the housing list during the time the area was under TMC control, allegedly due to his political affiliation. He asserted that when the BJP took control of the gram panchayat, his name was included after reaching out directly to the Chief Minister.

The allegations also extend to other BJP figures, including Vikas Bagh, a BJP member from the Chanagarh booth of Haur Gram Panchayat. Bagh’s house, described as being in a dilapidated state, had previously been left off the housing list, but he too was reportedly able to secure assistance after calling the Chief Minister directly.

The opposition, particularly the Trinamool Congress, has rejected the charges, arguing that the Chief Minister does not discriminate based on political affiliation and remains focused on delivering welfare benefits to all. However, the accusations have sparked a political tug-of-war, with both parties accusing each other of using state resources for political gains.

This unfolding situation in Panshkura highlights the ongoing political rivalry between the TMC and BJP in West Bengal, particularly as local elections loom large. The housing issue has now become a flashpoint in the battle for political control, with both sides seeking to gain an upper hand in the eyes of voters.
West Bengal

Ramakrishna Mission Barasat Concludes Five-Day Celebration of Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Sivananda’s Birth Anniversaries

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 26, 2024, Kolkata :  The five-day celebration organized by the Ramakrishna Mission Barasat to commemorate the 172nd birth anniversary of Sri Sarada Devi and the 171st birth anniversary of Swami Sivananda concluded on Thursday.


Swami Praneswarananda Maharaj, representing the Ramakrishna Mission Math, Barasat, highlighted that this year’s event, like previous years, featured an array of spiritually enriching activities. The program included Mangalarati, Vedic recitations, hymns, special pujas, scriptural readings, bhajans, kirtans, processions, and evening religious gatherings led by eminent monks of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission.

The concluding day was marked by a discussion meeting themed “Swami Sivananda,” which saw participation from distinguished speakers including Swami Durgatmananda Maharaj, Principal of Bamunmura Ramakrishna Math, Swami Balabhadrananda Maharaj, Joint General Secretary of Belur Math, and Swami Shastragnananda Maharaj, Secretary of Narendrapur Ramakrishna Mission. The event culminated in a special Kali Puja conducted by the Barasat Ramakrishna Mission.

Throughout the five-day celebration, devotees and guests from various branches of the Ramakrishna Order—including Barasat, Belur Math, Kalyani, Nimpeeth, Narendrapur, and Golpark—participated in the programs, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere. 
Economy, West Bengal

Lakshmi Bhandar Beneficiaries to Receive Old Age Allowance Post 60, Decision Awaits Final Approval

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 23, 2024 : Women beneficiaries under the Lakshmi Bhandar scheme will begin receiving old age allowance upon turning 60, as per the new proposal under consideration by the West Bengal government. The draft for this initiative has been prepared, but the final decision rests with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Following her approval, the proposal will proceed to the cabinet for formal ratification, after which official guidelines are expected to be issued by Nabanna, the state administrative headquarters. Implementation is anticipated in the upcoming year.


The Women, Child, and Social Welfare Department of the state government oversees the disbursement of old age allowance under the ‘Old Age Pension’ scheme. Currently, the scheme stipulates that only individuals with a monthly income of ₹1,000 or less are eligible for this benefit. However, the government is considering removing this upper income limit to ensure that all women, similar to Lakshmi Bhandar beneficiaries, can avail themselves of the scheme.

While the move has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who allege that it is a political strategy to garner votes, the initiative has been credited with assisting many marginalized women across the state. Opponents also argue that individuals who do not require financial assistance are benefiting from the scheme, raising concerns over the utilization of taxpayers’ money.

The government, however, maintains that the scheme operates automatically for Lakshmi Bhandar beneficiaries, who are eligible for old age allowance as soon as they reach 60 years of age. This move is expected to benefit several lakh women across West Bengal, extending the welfare net to a wider demographic. 
Economy, West Bengal

Traders and Farmers Urge State Government to Lift Potato Export Ban Amid Storage Crisis

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 22, 2024: Traders and farmers in West Bengal are raising concerns over the large quantities of potatoes stored in cold stores, fearing significant losses as the state government’s ban on exports to other regions continues. With new potatoes expected to enter the market soon, the future of the stored potatoes remains uncertain, prompting urgent appeals to the Mamata Banerjee-led administration to reconsider the export restrictions.

The cold stores in districts such as Chandrakona in Paschim Medinipur are reportedly holding lakhs of packets of potatoes, with traders expressing anxiety over the lack of local demand for these stocks. These potatoes are typically exported to neighboring states like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, but the ongoing export ban has put traders and farmers in a precarious position. They fear that if the potatoes are not exported by December, much of the stock will spoil, leading to substantial financial losses.

In Paschim Medinipur alone, approximately 1.65 lakh metric tons of potatoes remain stored in cold storage facilities. Chandrakona block accounts for around 10.8 lakh packets of potatoes, which are primarily intended for export. Traders argue that these potatoes are not meant for the Kolkata market but for neighboring states, where demand is higher. They have expressed frustration over the imposition of checkposts along state highways, which are closely monitoring the transportation of potatoes.

In light of these challenges, traders are calling on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to immediately lift the export ban to prevent further deterioration of the stored potatoes and ensure the availability of storage space for the incoming crop. “We are facing extreme problems due to the ban. If we cannot clear the stock by December, there will be no room to store the new potatoes, and the old ones will rot,” said one trader.

As tensions mount, it remains to be seen whether the state government will take action to ease the concerns of both traders and farmers. The situation is becoming increasingly urgent as the clock ticks toward the new potato harvest season.

International, Politics, West Bengal

India-Bangladesh Relations Tense Amid Protests, But Shantanu Thakur’s Metro Rail Announcement Sparks Debate

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 22, 2024: Tensions in Indo-Bangladesh relations have escalated in recent weeks, with protests erupting across various parts of India over alleged attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. As the situation grows increasingly sensitive, certain medical centers in India have announced their decision to halt medical services for Bangladeshi patients, a move reportedly linked to the rising political tensions. However, despite these protests, the Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, has made a surprising announcement that is stirring discussions in political and public circles. Thakur revealed plans for a metro rail connection from the Bangladesh border to Kolkata, underlining India’s commitment to maintaining bilateral ties with Bangladesh.


The announcement came during an event last Friday, when Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Siliguri for the Raising Day celebrations of the Armed Border Force (SSB). At the event, Shah inaugurated a new Rs 30 crore facility for BSF personnel at Petrolfall. In his speech, Minister Shantanu Thakur emphasized that Petrapol, a town near the Bangladesh border, could emerge as a major border city in the future. He highlighted the need for better connectivity, stating that plans for a metro line between Kolkata and Petrapol are in progress, aiming to facilitate the large number of Bangladeshis who travel to Kolkata for medical treatment. “Millions of people from Bangladesh come to Kolkata for treatment, and we need to improve services to cater to this demand,” Thakur said.

However, Thakur’s remarks have stirred controversy, particularly in light of the recent actions by certain medical facilities in India, which have ceased treating Bangladeshi patients amid growing political friction. While the BJP and certain Hindutva groups have rallied against the treatment of Bangladeshi nationals, framing it as a protest against alleged religious persecution of minorities in Bangladesh, Thakur’s comments suggest a more diplomatic stance. His call for the metro rail project reflects India’s desire to maintain constructive ties with Bangladesh, despite the current political tensions.

Thakur also used the platform to criticize the current state of affairs in Bangladesh. He remarked that Bangladesh, once an economically strong country in South Asia, has been weakened by rising fundamentalist activities. “Bangladesh is no longer the economic powerhouse it once was,” Thakur said, adding that India’s strength as the third-largest military power and the fifth-largest economy in the world should not be underestimated. However, he emphasized that India has always been a friend to Bangladesh and that the bilateral relationship would continue, provided Bangladesh extends the hand of friendship.

These comments, particularly in the context of the deteriorating situation in Bangladesh, have drawn mixed reactions. Many on social media have criticized the apparent contradiction between India’s hardline stance and its diplomatic overtures. One user tweeted, “India has really gone crazy. On one hand, they are saying they will cut ties with Bangladesh, and on the other, they’re planning a metro rail to the Bangladesh border. This proves India will be immobilized if it doesn’t maintain relations with Bangladesh.”

The remarks from Thakur, coupled with the protests and political developments in both countries, have led to intense debate about India’s foreign policy towards Bangladesh. While some view Thakur’s comments as part of a larger political strategy, others see them as indicative of a broader confusion in the government’s approach to its neighbor.

As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the Indian government will balance the demands of domestic politics with its foreign policy objectives, particularly in relation to Bangladesh.
Crime, West Bengal

Court Orders 14-Day Jail Custody for Sujoy Krishna Bhadra at CBI’s Request

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 21, 2024 : In a significant development in the teacher recruitment scam, a special CBI court on Saturday granted the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) permission to collect the voice sample of Sujoy Krishna Bhadra. The court also ordered that Bhadra be remanded to 14-day jail custody, as per the CBI’s request.


Sujoy Krishna Bhadra, arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on May 23 last year, had been undergoing treatment in a hospital for an extended period. The issue of collecting his voice sample had been a point of contention, but after a prolonged delay, his voice sample was finally collected on January 3 this year at the Joka ESI Hospital. This time, the CBI sought permission to collect the sample and take him into custody for further investigation.

Bhadra had been in CBI custody for the past four days, but the agency, citing health concerns and other factors, no longer wished to keep him in their custody. CBI lawyer Sandeep Chowdhury explained in court that Bhadra had been on a hunger strike for the past four days, refusing to take food or medication. As a result, his blood sugar levels were rising, and the CBI felt that this could potentially escalate into a medical emergency. The lawyer further stated that Bhadra was using the hunger strike as a tactic to create pressure, explaining that he was a political figure aware of the “political leverage” a hunger strike can provide.

Chowdhury also argued that Bhadra had not been cooperating with the investigation despite knowing vital information. Given his influential position, the CBI raised concerns that he could attempt to influence the investigation if released on bail.

In contrast, Sujoy Krishna Bhadra’s defense lawyer, Salim Rahman, countered the CBI’s arguments, asserting that the collection of Bhadra’s voice sample should follow the proper legal procedures. Rahman also emphasized that his client had no political affiliations and had no contact with any political leaders. He further stated that Bhadra was in poor health, having undergone bypass surgery, and had recently lost his wife. He requested the court to consider these factors and grant bail, proposing house arrest as an alternative to jail custody if needed.

After hearing both sides, the court decided to remand Sujoy Krishna Bhadra to jail custody for 14 days. The case is ongoing, and the CBI continues to investigate Bhadra’s alleged involvement in the teacher recruitment scam.
Crime, West Bengal

Mystery Surrounds Death of Engineering Student at Jadavpur University

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 21, 2024, 

 Kolkata, : The sudden death of Pratip Kumar Manna (21), a third-year engineering student at Jadavpur University, has left both his family and friends in shock. Pratip, a resident of Tamluk in Purba Medinipur, had come to Kolkata to pursue his studies in the Department of Food Technology and Biochemical Engineering. He was living in a rented accommodation in the city when the tragic incident occurred.

On the evening of Thursday, Pratip began feeling unwell around 7 p.m., according to his roommate, Ark Maiti. Pratip asked Ark to purchase some medicine for him. After buying the medicine, Ark returned home around 8 p.m. to find Pratip lying unconscious. In a panic, Ark rushed him to a nearby nursing home. However, the situation took a turn for the worse when, after being transferred to KPC Hospital, doctors declared Pratip dead.

The cause of his sudden death remains unclear, and the police have launched an investigation to determine whether there is any foul play or if the death was due to natural causes. At this point, the authorities have not been able to ascertain whether there is any mystery behind his demise.

Pratip’s untimely death has raised several questions among his friends and family, and the investigation is ongoing as they await clarity on the cause. The police are examining all possibilities as they try to uncover the truth behind this tragic incident.
Politics, West Bengal

Trinamool Congress Expels Several Leaders Over Alleged Breach of Discipline

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews,  December 20, 2024, Kolkata :   The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has expelled several leaders for alleged anti-party activities and breaches of party discipline. Among those expelled is Manikar Mandal, vice president of the Trinamool Professors’ Organization Web Cooper. Mandal, who also served as an executive council member at Kalyani University, has been removed from both his positions in the university and within the party.


In addition, Pritam Halder, executive president of the TMC’s Secondary Teachers’ Organization, has also faced expulsion. The party has also taken action against Tarun Tiwari, the former secretary of Yuva Trinamool. Tiwari was accused of creating a disturbance in the name of party leader Abhishek Banerjee, leading to a complaint filed by a businessman at the Posta police station. Subsequently, both Tiwari’s expulsion and his arrest were confirmed. Youth Trinamool President and Member of Parliament Sayani Banerjee officially announced Tiwari’s expulsion in a letter.

Furthermore, two leaders from the teachers’ organization, Mani Shankar and Pritam, were also expelled following allegations of anti-party conduct. Bratya Basu, the president of the party’s education wing, confirmed their expulsions. This series of expulsions underscores the party’s firm stance on maintaining discipline within its ranks.
Regional, West Bengal

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Inaugurates 2024 Kolkata Christmas Festival with Festive Spirit and Promises of Unity

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Baby Charaborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 19, 2024: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee officially inaugurated the 2024 Kolkata Christmas Festival at Allen Park on Thursday, ushering in the season of joy and celebration for the city. The event, which coincides with the annual St. Xavier’s College Christmas Festival, marked the beginning of the much-awaited festive season in Kolkata. The city is known for its unique blend of culture and tradition, and as the streets light up with colorful decorations, the aroma of festive delicacies fills the air, and the sound of carols echoes, a sense of warmth and togetherness sweeps through the community.


The inauguration ceremony was graced by a number of distinguished dignitaries, including the Archbishop of Kolkata, Most Reverend Thomas D’Souza, Reverend Dr. Paritosh Canning, Bishop of Kolkata, Church of North India, Consul General of the Russian Federation in Kolkata, British Deputy High Commissioner Derek O’Brien, along with several other prominent figures.


Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her joy in joining the celebrations and highlighted the significance of the festival in bringing people together across communities. “It’s that time of the year again when Kolkata comes alive with the spirit of Christmas,” she said, reflecting on the city’s vibrant culture and the warmth of the festive season.

Banerjee also extended her gratitude to the festival organizers and the various agencies that made the event possible. She particularly thanked the Kolkata Police, Kolkata Municipal Corporation, and the West Bengal Tourism Department for their exceptional logistical support, which ensured the smooth conduct of the celebrations.


The Kolkata Christmas Festival, which began in 2011, has grown exponentially in popularity over the years, becoming one of the city’s most eagerly anticipated annual events. Chief Minister Banerjee, emphasizing the importance of maintaining such cherished traditions, said, “I am grateful to everyone who has contributed to making this event a grand success.”

In a gesture of goodwill and celebration, Banerjee also virtually inaugurated the second edition of the Darjeeling Mellow Tea Fest, organized by the Darjeeling Police and the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA). As part of the festive spirit, she highlighted her efforts to illuminate 14 churches across the state, in collaboration with district magistrates, superintendents of police, and senior officials, marking this special occasion.

Among the churches illuminated was the Macfarlane Memorial Church of Kalimpong in the scenic hills of Darjeeling, further extending the joyous celebrations beyond Kolkata.

The Chief Minister concluded her address by wishing all residents peace and happiness during this festive season. “May this season bring joy, peace, and may the Almighty shower his abundant blessings on all of you,” she said, offering a heartfelt prayer for the people of the state.

As the lights shine bright and the carols continue to fill the air, Kolkata is all set to embrace the warmth and joy of the Christmas season, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate this time of unity, love, and togetherness.
West Bengal

Demands for Minority Rights Highlighted on International Minority Rights Day in Howrah

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Howrah, December 18, 2024: On Wednesday, the All Bengal Minority Association marked International Minority Rights Day with a seminar on the “Position of Minorities” at the Maubesia Madrasa in Uluberia, Howrah district. The event brought together various speakers who highlighted several key demands aimed at improving the conditions of minorities in West Bengal and beyond.


The speakers emphasized the need for the state government to streamline the process of obtaining OBC certificates, making them more accessible to those who require them. Another important demand was to include the Maktab, Madrasas, and SSKs (Shishu Siksha Kendras) under the Madrasa Education Board, ensuring better recognition and standardization of these educational institutions. Furthermore, the issue of employment and welfare for the families of workers who die while in service was raised, with a call for dependents to be given jobs and pensions.

One of the more urgent concerns addressed was the violence and persecution faced by the Christian community in Manipur. The speakers called for an immediate end to attacks on Christians in the state and the establishment of a peaceful environment where people of all faiths can coexist without fear.

Other significant demands included the beautification of churches and the restoration of the education system at the Hooghly Gov Madrasa, in line with the Bengal Education Code of 1931. The attendees expressed concerns that any changes, expansions, or closures of the Hooghly Madrasa should be subject to legislative scrutiny, with a specific bill to be introduced in the Legislative Assembly to safeguard its future. There was also a call for greater financial support for religious leaders, particularly imams and muazzins, with a proposal to increase their allowances to at least fifteen thousand and ten thousand rupees, respectively.

The meeting also discussed the issue of Waqf properties, with the association urging the state government to take more decisive action to recover properties that have been forcibly occupied. A call was made to repeal the controversial new Waqf Bill passed by the central government, with demands for opposition parliamentarians to vocally oppose the bill in the legislative body.

Abu Afzal Jinnah, president of the All Bengal Minority Association, presided over the event, while the general secretary, Nazibul Haque Mallick, conducted the proceedings smoothly. Several notable figures attended, including Sanjit Sunny, state secretary of the Bangiya Christian Council, and Dr. Emmanuel Singh, joint secretary of the same council. Other prominent speakers included educationists Baojul Hossain and Yusa Abbasi, SDPI leader Taedul Islam, Sheikh Mehboob Ahmed, state secretary of the Sara Bangla Madrasa Teachers and Workers Association, and lawyer Abdul Momen, among others.

The event concluded with a prayer led by Haji Anwar Shah, who wished for the welfare and prosperity of the country, emphasizing the importance of unity and peace for the progress of all communities.

The seminar served as a powerful platform for raising awareness about the ongoing struggles faced by minority communities and underscored the need for a more inclusive approach to governance, ensuring that the rights of all citizens, regardless of religion or background, are upheld.
West Bengal

Fear Grips Kamala Village as 300 Families Face Eviction Threat from Ministry of Defense

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Baby Chakraborty, December 18, 2024, Shalbani: 

Panic has struck Kamala village, located in the Bankibandh Panchayat of Shalbani block, Paschim Medinipur (West Midnapore) district, following an eviction notice issued by the Union Ministry of Defense. The notice, demanding that the villagers vacate the area within 15 days, has left approximately 300 families in a state of shock and uncertainty, fearing the loss of their homes and land.

The village, built during the British era, has a rich historical background. In 1940, during World War II, the British government established an airport in Kamala as part of the war effort. Villagers were temporarily displaced for security reasons, but they returned to their homes after the war ended. Following independence, the area saw the development of various government and private institutions, including a mint and a training center for the Cobra force, which was set up in the area that once housed the British airport.

The Ministry of Defense first issued an eviction notice in 2022, prompting the villagers to present their documentation and inform the ministry of their longstanding residence in the area. However, no resolution was reached. Now, with the issuance of another eviction notice, tensions have escalated, and the villagers are deeply distressed by the prospect of losing their land, which they have inhabited for generations.

One villager, visibly distressed, expressed his frustration: “We have lived here for five generations. To suddenly be told to leave is not just unfair—it’s impossible to accept without proper rehabilitation.”

In response to the situation, Madhumita Mukherjee, the Sub-Divisional Administrator of Midnapore Sadar, stated, “We have not received any official communication regarding the notice as of yet. The matter will be investigated, and the necessary documents will be verified. If eviction is indeed necessary, the issue of rehabilitation will be taken into serious consideration.”

The situation has sparked political controversy. Opposition parties have accused the central government of showing a lack of humanity in the handling of the eviction process. Meanwhile, the ruling party has appealed to the Ministry of Defense to reconsider its decision, urging them to take into account the humanitarian impact on the affected families.

As the villagers await a response, the fear of being displaced continues to overshadow their lives. Their only hope now rests on the intervention of both the government and the administration, to ensure that their rights are protected and that any move to evict them is accompanied by adequate rehabilitation measures. The uncertainty surrounding their future has left these families in a state of constant anxiety, with no clear resolution in sight.
Techno/ Science, West Bengal

Mamata Inaugurates Infosys’ New Development Center in Newtown, Emphasizes Strong Coordination for Success

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Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, December 18, 2024, Kolkata: Kolkata witnessed a significant milestone in its technological landscape on Wednesday as the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, inaugurated Infosys’ new campus at Hatishala in Newtown. The new development center stands as a testament to the growing influence of the state in the information technology sector.


Speaking at the ceremony, Mamata expressed pride in the occasion, calling it “a historic day” for the state. She remarked that Infosys, which started its journey in 1981, had finally established a new hub of innovation in West Bengal. The new campus, she said, symbolizes the state’s commitment to technological growth and its potential as a prime destination for major IT firms.

In her address, Mamata reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting Infosys in all aspects of its growth. “Our government will provide all kinds of help to ensure that Infosys thrives here,” she affirmed. Her words reflected the government’s proactive stance in fostering business environments conducive to growth and collaboration.

The inauguration also underscored the importance of local governance in supporting major corporate ventures. Mamata specifically called on Shawkat Mollah, the MLA of Canning East and Chairman of the Assembly Standing Committee, who had been tasked with overseeing the security arrangements for the Infosys campus. In a directive tone, the Chief Minister emphasized that Mollah’s role was pivotal in ensuring the security and smooth functioning of the new campus. “We have to make sure they receive all kinds of cooperation,” Mamata said, stressing the need for a coordinated effort from all levels of government.

The Chief Minister also reminded the police of their vital responsibility in ensuring a peaceful environment for the development center. Acknowledging the location’s proximity to sensitive areas, she pointed out that the new campus falls under the jurisdiction of the Kolkata Police, Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate, and West Bengal Police. “Good coordination between all agencies is crucial to ensure that no obstacles or unrest disrupt the peaceful progress of this project,” Mamata stressed.

The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including industry leaders and officials, who shared in the celebration of this new chapter for both Infosys and the state of West Bengal. With this new campus, Infosys joins a growing list of multinational corporations establishing a strong presence in the region, a move that is expected to provide substantial economic benefits and create thousands of new job opportunities for local residents.

As the ceremony concluded, Mamata’s words left a clear message: the state government is determined to continue working hand-in-hand with global leaders in the business sector to ensure West Bengal’s place as a hub of innovation and industry.
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