Politics, West Bengal

Ram Navami Celebrations in Bengal: Calls for Mass Participation Spark Debate

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata : West Bengal has always been a state where people of all religions practice their faith freely. There is no restriction on celebrating Ram Navami either. However, historically, the festival has not been observed on a grand scale in the state. Over the past two to three years, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has actively promoted the large-scale celebration of Ram Navami, and this year is no exception. The leader of the opposition has once again called for grand celebrations, intertwining it with the discourse on Hindutva.


This call has sparked debate, particularly due to two contentious points. Firstly, the opposition leader has urged one crore Hindus to take to the streets on Ram Navami, which is being perceived as a demonstration of radical Hindutva. Secondly, he asserted that no administrative permission would be required for such gatherings. While religious celebrations are welcomed, maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the administration. If such a massive crowd takes to the streets, it could disrupt public movement and transportation. Therefore, administrative approval may be necessary to ensure that the festivities do not lead to any law-and-order issues.

The opposition leader has emphasized that the streets of Bengal will be filled with chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ on Ram Navami. There is no objection to a large turnout, be it one crore or even more, as he claims. However, the primary concern remains the peaceful and orderly conduct of the celebrations. If those participating ensure that their festivities do not cause inconvenience to others, neither the administration nor the general public should have any objections.

As Bengal prepares for Ram Navami, the focus remains on ensuring that religious observances are conducted in a harmonious manner, respecting both the celebratory spirit and public order.
National, West Bengal

Mamata Banerjee’s Leadership Highlighted Through Posters as She Embarks on Foreign Tour

Leave a comment


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata :  West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee left for a week-long foreign tour on Saturday, but before her departure, the city of Kolkata witnessed an intriguing display of political messaging. A series of posters surfaced across South Kolkata, first declaring Abhishek Banerjee as the “Captain” and later reinforcing Mamata Banerjee’s position as the supreme leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

The initial posters, seen on Friday morning, referred to Abhishek Banerjee as the “Captain,” written in blue ink on bright yellow flags, covering areas from Jadavpur to other parts of South Kolkata. However, by midnight, the posters had changed. A new set featuring the image of Mamata Banerjee appeared, bearing the slogan “Sarbadhinayaka Jai Hai” (Victory to the Supreme Leader). These posters quickly spread across the city and social media, strategically placed beside those featuring Abhishek Banerjee.

Sources suggest that this move comes as Mamata Banerjee embarks on her visit to London, entrusting Abhishek Banerjee with key responsibilities in her absence. The timing of these posters also aligns with the approaching 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, reinforcing that Mamata Banerjee remains the primary face of the party, with Abhishek Banerjee playing a significant role alongside her.

Addressing the development, Debangshu Bhattacharya, head of the TMC’s IT cell, explained that “Fam” is one of many support groups backing the Trinamool Congress on social media, and “Captain Abhishek” is a branch of their organization. He confirmed that the posters were a demonstration of their support.

As political dynamics unfold within the party, the dual messaging of these posters highlights the evolving leadership narrative within the TMC while reaffirming Mamata Banerjee’s dominant role in the upcoming electoral battle.

West Bengal

Raja Jute Cultivation Brings Additional Profit and New Opportunities to Farmers

Leave a comment


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 22, 2025, Kolkata :  Farmers are experiencing an additional profit of 10,000 taka per acre by cultivating Raja jute, a variety that boasts fibers at least two feet longer than ordinary jute and is known for its superior quality. Artists connected with the soil have composed songs celebrating Raja jute, highlighting its benefits and the positive impact it has had on agriculture. Nujiveedu Seeds, the company behind the invention of the NJ 7005 Raja jute seed, has expressed immense satisfaction with the success of this variety in several districts across the state. To showcase this success, a ‘Celebrity Mega Field Day’ program has been launched to promote Raja jute cultivation in Nadia, Murshidabad, Malda, and North 24 Parganas.

At a special event held in Baliura village of Patharghata 2 Gram Panchayat in Nadia, renowned artist Dipayan Banerjee performed a song about Raja jute. The song highlighted the use and success of NJ 7005 Raja jute seeds, which have been well-received by local farmers. Banerjee’s performance not only entertained but also educated the crowd about the advantages of growing this variety of jute.

Nujiveedu Seeds, the producer of Raja jute, stated that farmers are earning an additional 10,000 taka per acre thanks to the long fibers of Raja jute and its impressive yield. On average, farmers are seeing a minimum increase of 2 quintals per acre compared to other jute varieties. Developed in 2020 by Dr. Mohammad Mashiur Rahman, Chief Scientist of the Research Department at Nujiveedu Seeds, NJ 7005 Raja jute has revolutionized the jute cultivation industry. The variety not only lowers cultivation costs but also provides higher yields, better-quality fibers, and increased profit margins for farmers.

One of the key features of Raja jute is its length. Compared to other jute varieties, it is two feet longer, which results in higher yields and thicker bark. This thicker bark enhances the quality of the fibers, making them more valuable in the market. Farmers are receiving better prices for their jute due to the improved yield and quality of the fibers. Another advantage of Raja jute is its fiber, which is significantly longer and stronger than the traditional varieties cultivated in India, solving a long-standing issue in the industry.

To ensure farmers purchase authentic seeds, Nujiveedu Seeds advises them to look for the blue government sticker on the back of the seed packet to avoid counterfeiting. Many farmers across various villages have already experienced the benefits of Raja jute, with numerous families seeing improved financial stability. As a result, many are eager to continue cultivating this seed in the future.

On March 22, renowned Uttam Baul performed a song about Raja jute in the villages of Maldaher, Kalitala, Bhutni, and Manikachak. The locals were thrilled to hear his song, which not only entertained but also encouraged those who had not yet started cultivating Raja jute. After listening to the song and discussions, many farmers are now motivated to start cultivating Raja jute in the upcoming seasons. This new variety has opened up a promising new chapter in the world of jute cultivation, offering hope and prosperity to the farming community.

International, National

US returns 588 antiquities to India, 297 received in 2024, says government

Leave a comment
The Union minister was also asked whether the government plans to collaborate with international organisations or other nations to strengthen India’s efforts in recovering stolen antiquities

PTI, 20.03.25 :  As many as 588 antiquities have been repatriated to India from the US so far, out of which 297 were received in 2024, the government informed Parliament on Thursday.

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said this in a written response to a query in Rajya Sabha.

He was asked the number of “looted or stolen artifacts” expected to be repatriated under US-India Cultural Property Agreement to prevent illicit trade of antiquities.

“Cultural Property Agreement (CPA) has been signed with the United States of America (USA) to prevent smuggling of Indian antiquities. Agreement, being preventive in nature, has no timelines or target numbers. So far, 588 antiquities have been repatriated from USA, out of which 297 were received in 2024,” he stated.

The Union minister was also asked whether the government plans to collaborate with international organisations or other nations to strengthen India’s efforts in recovering stolen antiquities.

“India collaborates with different international organisations, including UNESCO and INTERPOL, as per requirement. The CPA has provision for fostering cooperation and mutual understanding in the matters of technical assistance, illicit trade and pillage of cultural property,” he added.

In a separate query, he was asked whether the government has observed a “resurgence of ancient sects,” particularly during events like the Kumbh Mela.

The Kumbh Mela is a significant Hindu pilgrimage festival and one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, where millions of devotees converge to bathe in sacred rivers. During this event, many ancient sects, spiritual organisations and religious leaders come together, often showcasing rituals, traditions and practices that have been passed down through centuries, Shekhawat said.

“The resurgence of ancient sects in India is driven by factors such as a growing interest in cultural and spiritual heritage coupled with the search for deeper meaning amid modern religious challenges,” he said.

Social media and religious tourism have also played a role in spreading awareness of these sects. This revival is significant in contemporary society as it helps to preserve traditional practices, offers an alternative to materialism, fosters social cohesion and strengthens national pride in India’s cultural roots, the minister said.
International, National

Elon Musk’s X files lawsuit in Karnataka High Court, accuses India of arbitrary censorship

Leave a comment
The lawsuit alleged the govt is using the Section 79(3)(b) of Information Technology (IT) Act to create a parallel content-blocking mechanism, bypassing the structured legal process outlined in Section 69A

PTI, 20.03.25 : Social media giant ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), owned by US billionaire Elon Musk, has filed a lawsuit in the Karnataka High Court against Government of India, challenging what it called unlawful content regulation and arbitrary censorship.

It raised concerns over the Centre’s interpretation of the Information Technology (IT) Act, particularly its use of Section 79(3)(b), which ‘X’ argues violates Supreme Court rulings and undermines free expression online.

The lawsuit alleged the government is using the said section to create a parallel content-blocking mechanism, bypassing the structured legal process outlined in Section 69A.

‘X’ claimed this approach contradicts the Supreme Court’s 2015 ruling in the Shreya Singhal case, which established that content can only be blocked through a proper judicial process or the legally defined route under Section 69A.

According to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B), Section 79(3)(b) mandates online platforms to remove illegal content when directed by either a court order or a government notification.

If a platform fails to comply within 36 hours, it risks losing its safe harbor protection under Section 79(1) and could be held accountable under various laws, including the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

However, X has contested this interpretation, arguing that the provision does not grant the government independent authority to block content.

Instead, it accused authorities of misusing the law to impose arbitrary censorship without following due process.

Under Section 69A of the IT Act, the government has the power to block public access to digital content if it is deemed a threat to national security, sovereignty, or public order. However, this process is regulated by the 2009 Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public) Rules, which require a structured review process before blocking decisions are made.

‘X’ has argued that instead of following these procedures, the government is using Section 79(3)(b) as a shortcut, allowing content to be removed without the necessary scrutiny. The platform sees this as a direct violation of legal safeguards meant to prevent arbitrary censorship.

Another major point in the social media platform’s legal challenge is its opposition to the government’s Sahyog portal.

Created by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, this platform was designed to streamline takedown requests under Section 79(3)(b) and facilitate direct communication between social media platforms and law enforcement agencies.

However, ‘X’ has refused to onboard an employee onto the Sahyog portal, claiming it acts as a “censorship tool” that pressures platforms to remove content without proper legal review.

The lawsuit argues that this is yet another attempt by the government to control online discourse without judicial oversight.
Crime, Politics

Sujoy Krishna Bhadra Seeks Extension of Conditional Bail from Calcutta High Court

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, March 20, 2025: Sujoy Krishna Bhadra, who was arrested in connection with a recruitment case, has once again approached the Calcutta High Court seeking an extension of his conditional interim bail and a relaxation of the imposed conditions.


Bhadra was  initially granted interim bail due to health concerns, first in an Enforcement Directorate (ED) case in December and later in a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) case in February. The division bench of Justice Arijit Banerjee and Justice Apurba Singh Roy had noted concerns over Bhadra’s deteriorating heart cndition and decided to grant him bail on medical grounds. As a result, he has been staying at home under these conditions until the last week of March.

His case is scheduled to be heard in court later this month, where his legal team is expected to present arguments for extending the bail period. Reports suggest that the latest application also requests a reduction in the conditions imposed on him during the interim bail. The court’s decision on the matter will determine whether Bhadra continues to remain out on bail or has to comply with stricter legal proceedings.
Politics, West Bengal

Political Tensions Escalate in Baruipur Amid BJP and Trinamool Processions

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : Political tensions flared in Baruipur, South 24 Parganas, on Wednesday as rival processions by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) took place within 100 meters of each other. The situation quickly escalated into a heated exchange, with both parties raising slogans—’Jai Shri Ram’ from BJP supporters and ‘Jai Bangla’ from the TMC camp.


The controversy deepened as remarks made by BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari came under fresh scrutiny. During the march, BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul, who accompanied Adhikari, stated, “We are being shown black flags because we stand for traditional Hindus. But we also support nationalist Muslims. If there is injustice, we will raise our voices against it. If someone thinks they can silence us with black flags, then they don’t understand the BJP.”

The police were quick to intervene, managing to de-escalate the tense atmosphere to some extent. The unrest stemmed from an earlier incident in the state assembly, where Speaker Biman Banerjee denied Adhikari the opportunity to speak. In protest, Adhikari led the BJP rally through Banerjee’s constituency in Baruipur, prompting TMC to organize a counter-rally in response.

With assembly elections approaching, the political climate in West Bengal appears to be increasingly charged, with religious undertones shaping the discourse. Adhikari, a prominent leader of the opposition, had previously declared, “I am an MLA of Hindus,” a remark that, while controversial, did not initially spark widespread debate. However, Paul’s clarification that the BJP represents not just Hindus but also nationalist Muslims has added a new dimension to the ongoing political discourse.

As political rivalries intensify, the incident underscores the deepening divide and the significance of religious identity in the state’s electoral battles.
Politics, West Bengal

Stalled Inauguration of Food Streets in Kolkata Sparks Concern

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : 

The Central Government’s ambitious plan to establish high-quality ‘food streets’ in 100 cities across India has hit a roadblock in Kolkata. Despite the construction of three such food hubs in the city, their inauguration remains indefinitely postponed due to ongoing disputes over stall distribution. The food streets were scheduled to open in 2024, offering a diverse culinary experience ranging from Chinese and Mughlai to Indian and Continental cuisines. However, unresolved tensions over stall allocation have delayed the launch, leaving these expensive establishments unused and deteriorating.

The food stalls, built at a cost of several crores of rupees, now stand neglected. According to municipal sources, the primary issue revolves around who will manage these stalls. One faction advocates for handing them over to large corporations to attract more visitors and enhance the appeal of the food streets. Another group insists that, as per the Centre’s guidelines, only registered hawkers should be allowed to operate these stalls. Further complicating matters, there is no consensus on the process of selecting hawkers and conducting fair allotment elections.

Due to this administrative impasse, the completed stalls at Russell Street, Patuli, and Tala remain unutilized. Meanwhile, similar food street concepts have flourished in major cities across Europe and America, where designated locations serve as bustling culinary hubs. The Narendra Modi-led government introduced this initiative to replicate that success in India, with Kolkata among the selected cities. However, without a resolution on stall management, the vision of vibrant, organized food streets in Kolkata remains unrealized.

Local stakeholders and food lovers await swift intervention and a decisive resolution to prevent further wastage of resources and to bring Kolkata’s food streets to life as originally envisioned.
West Bengal

Rising Accidents on National Highway No. 16 Raise Concerns in Howrah and Surrounding Districts

Leave a comment


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata :  The increasing number of accidents on National Highway No. 16, formerly known as Mumbai Road, has raised serious concerns among commuters and local residents. This vital route serves as the primary means of communication for people traveling between Howrah, East and West Medinipur, Jhargram, and Kolkata. However, the deteriorating condition of the road, coupled with reckless driving, has turned several sections into accident-prone zones, leading to frequent fatalities.

On Monday morning, a monk from Bharat Sevashram Sangh tragically lost his life in an accident on the highway in Bagnan, Howrah. Just the previous night, a minor was killed in another accident caused by reckless driving on the same stretch of road. Local authorities and district police officials have acknowledged the alarming rise in accidents on this crucial highway, with multiple intersections becoming virtual death traps.

Despite the ongoing expansion and development of the national highway, the number of accidents continues to surge. A senior official from the district police explained that most of these mishaps occur late at night or in the early hours of the morning when traffic police presence is minimal. Many drivers, taking advantage of the absence of law enforcement, violate traffic rules by switching lanes arbitrarily and disregarding signals, significantly increasing the risk of collisions.

Authorities have urged stricter enforcement of traffic laws, improved road conditions, and enhanced surveillance, especially during high-risk hours. As concerns grow over road safety, commuters and residents are calling for immediate measures to prevent further loss of life and make National Highway No. 16 safer for all travelers.

National, West Bengal

CM Mamata Banerjee Demands Bharat Ratna for Sunita Williams After Her Return from Space

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata :   After spending nine months in space, NASA astronaut Sunita Williams has safely returned to Earth along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore. Their return on Wednesday has sparked widespread relief and joy across the globe, particularly in India, where Sunita’s Indian heritage has generated immense excitement.


West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has expressed her admiration for Sunita’s achievement and has urged the central government to confer the Bharat Ratna upon her. Standing in the Assembly, Mamata Banerjee declared, “Sunita is the daughter of India. I am requesting the central government to award her the Bharat Ratna.” She further stated that she had been closely following Sunita’s journey and had regularly checked on her status.

The Chief Minister took to her official X handle in the morning to extend her congratulations to Sunita and her fellow astronauts. Later, in the Assembly, she reiterated her appreciation, saying, “On behalf of the Legislative Assembly, I express my gratitude to Sunita Williams. Each of them has endured extreme physical challenges. I also extend my gratitude to the rescue team for ensuring their safe return.”

Mamata Banerjee also took the opportunity to remember Kalpana Chawla, the Indian-origin astronaut who tragically lost her life during the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. She discussed the technical difficulties that Kalpana’s spacecraft faced and compared them to the issues encountered by Sunita’s mission. “Kalpana Chawla also went. She could not return. I have studied space science. We see that when planes face technical issues, they return. I have heard that this spacecraft also had some problems. It actually caught fire. That is why they had to be stuck in space for so many months. Special thanks to the rescue team,” she said.

Sunita Williams has now set a new record for her prolonged stay at the space station, adding another milestone to her illustrious career. Mamata Banerjee emphasized the mental challenges astronauts face during extended space missions, stating, “They spent days in mental anguish. A storm raged in their minds. I checked on them every day. I saw that two countries came forward to help NASA. They landed in Florida. I congratulate them.”

The call for Bharat Ratna has added momentum to the nationwide celebration of Sunita Williams’ remarkable journey, as she continues to inspire millions with her contributions to space exploration.
Politics, West Bengal

Tension Escalates During Subhendu Adhikari’s Procession in Baruipur

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : A volatile situation erupted in Baruipur, South 24 Parganas, as Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and supporters staged a protest against opposition leader Subhendu Adhikari during his procession. Demonstrators waved black flags and raised ‘Go Back’ slogans, targeting BJP leaders and party workers. In response, BJP supporters countered with slogans of their own, escalating tensions in the area.


The clash intensified as BJP and TMC processions took place simultaneously within a 100-meter radius, leading to a charged atmosphere in the assembly constituency of Speaker Biman Banerjee. Concerns have been raised regarding how permissions were granted for two political processions at the same location and time, further fueling the controversy.

As Subhendu Adhikari arrived in Baruipur, TMC supporters vehemently protested his presence, surrounding his car and chanting slogans such as ‘thief, thief’ and ‘Shishirbabu’s son.’ The BJP leader responded by demanding the imposition of President’s rule in West Bengal, questioning the Election Commission’s ability to conduct free and fair elections under the current circumstances.

A significant police force was deployed to control the situation and prevent further escalation. Amid the tension, Subhendu Adhikari firmly stated, ‘Let the Election Commission decide whether elections are possible in West Bengal without President’s rule. I am demanding President’s rule.’ He further asserted, ‘I will do whatever I have to.’

The events in Baruipur underscore the growing political friction in West Bengal, raising concerns over the state’s election preparedness and law and order situation.
Politics, West Bengal

BJP Yuva Morcha Protests at Hooghly Shiksha Bhavan, Submits Memorandum with Educational Demands

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 20, 2025, Kolkata : The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) staged a protest today in front of Hooghly’s Shiksha Bhavan, highlighting critical issues in the education sector. The demonstration, organized by the Hooghly organizational district of the BJYM, witnessed participation from members of the Mahila Morcha as well. The protest aimed to draw attention to pressing educational concerns and present a memorandum outlining a seven-point demand list to the authorities.


Among the key attendees were former district president Tushar Majumdar, general secretary Suresh Sau, and BJYM president Rajiv Gharami, along with several BJP leaders and party workers. The protest march, which commenced from the Hooghly organizational district office, culminated at Shiksha Bhavan, where the memorandum was formally submitted to the education department officials.

The seven demands put forth by the BJYM included the immediate resolution of inadequate toilet facilities in multiple schools, the timely introduction of service books within a stipulated two-year period, and the appointment of head teachers and necessary assistant teachers in every institution. Additionally, the memorandum called for stringent measures to curb corruption in the mid-day meal program, legal action against those misusing school management funds, the elimination of political interference in educational institutions, and the re-establishment of democratic elections for School Management Committees (SMC).

Following the memorandum submission, tensions escalated when BJP workers initiated a sit-in protest outside the Education Building. A brief scuffle ensued between the protestors and the police as authorities intervened to manage the situation. Despite the confrontation, the protest remained largely peaceful, with demonstrators reiterating their commitment to ensuring educational reforms in the district.

The BJP Yuva Morcha leaders have urged the administration to take swift action on their demands, emphasizing that the welfare of students and teachers must be prioritized. The event marks yet another instance of the BJYM’s continued advocacy for transparency and efficiency in the education system.
Politics, West Bengal

Massive Ram Navami Procession Expected in Kolkata Amid Security Concerns

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 19, 2025, Kolkata :  BJP’s opposition leader, Suvendu Adhikari, has announced plans for a large-scale Ram Navami procession in Kolkata, claiming that nearly one crore Hindus will participate in the event. This announcement has stirred discussions regarding security and communal harmony in the city.


Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma acknowledged the potential risks associated with such a large gathering but assured that the police administration is fully prepared to manage the situation effectively. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents and to ensure the safety of all citizens.

Adhikari emphasized that this year’s procession would be significantly larger than previous ones and stated that no political party or administrative body would be able to halt the event. His statements have sparked debates across political and social circles regarding the possible implications of such a massive procession.

He also strongly criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s remarks about certain organizations like the RSS, Bajrang Dal, and Vishwa Hindu Parishad, interpreting them as an insult to the Hindu community. Additionally, Adhikari expressed concerns over possible disruptions, citing past instances of violence during religious events. He referenced incidents in areas such as Rajabazar, Bajbaj, and Birbhum, suggesting that there could be attempts to create disturbances similar to those reported in neighboring Bangladesh.

Authorities have urged all communities to maintain peace and cooperation during the upcoming festival. Security measures, including increased surveillance and crowd management strategies, are being put in place to ensure that the event proceeds without conflict. The administration has also appealed to all stakeholders to respect law and order while celebrating religious traditions.

As the date approaches, the city remains on high alert, with efforts being made to balance religious sentiments with public safety and communal harmony.
Politics, West Bengal

Political Rhetoric Heats Up in West Bengal Ahead of 2026 Elections

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 19, 2025, Kolkata :  Political tensions continue to escalate in West Bengal as Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari reiterates his stance on community politics while launching sharp criticisms against the ruling Trinamool Congress. Adhikari, who recently made controversial remarks about minority communities, now asserts that the BJP is not against any community but opposes the policies of the Trinamool Congress. He stated, “We have never spoken against any other community. We are not against the community against which you are angry. We are against this policy of the Trinamool Congress.”

His remarks come amid growing political polarization in the state, where vote-bank strategies remain a focal point. With approximately 33 percent of the electorate comprising minority voters and around 67 percent majority voters, parties are seen making calculated moves to consolidate their respective bases. The upcoming 2026 Assembly elections have heightened the competition, leading to intensifying rhetoric from both sides.

Adhikari did not hold back in his criticism of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, sarcastically remarking, “You left the opposition leader out for nine months. And there are two sessions. Do whatever you can. Kejriwal will go wherever Mamata goes.” The reference to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal adds another dimension to the ongoing political battle, as alliances and rivalries shape the pre-election landscape.

With both sides engaging in aggressive campaigning, the state is witnessing a surge in political messaging, with posters promoting Hindu unity becoming widespread, while the Trinamool Congress counters with its own outreach strategies. The charged atmosphere reflects the deepening divide as the election approaches.

Beyond verbal exchanges, concerns have been raised over potential unrest, with Adhikari alleging that political conflicts in Bengal are not just limited to ideological battles but also involve the threat of violence. Security measures are being assessed to prevent any escalation of tensions. Meanwhile, the administration continues to emphasize governance issues such as employment, industrial growth, and development as key priorities for the state.

As the political landscape shifts, the focus remains on how parties navigate these complexities in the lead-up to the crucial 2026 Assembly elections. Authorities urge political leaders and citizens alike to uphold peace and democratic values while engaging in political discourse.

Crime, West Bengal

Crackdown on Illegal Arms Trade in Kolkata Leads to Arrest

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 17, 2025, Kolkata : With elections still nearly a year away, concerns over illegal arms trade are escalating in Kolkata. In a major breakthrough, the Special Task Force (STF) of the Railway Police made a significant arrest on Monday, uncovering an arms smuggling operation in the heart of the city.


Acting on intelligence inputs, STF officials apprehended a suspect near Sealdah station at approximately 5:30 AM. The individual, identified as Hasan Sheikh, a resident of Malda, was found in possession of six firearms and eight rounds of ammunition. Authorities confirmed that the weapons were being transported illegally, raising alarms over potential threats to public safety.

According to officials, Hasan Sheikh had traveled aboard the Hat Bazar Express and was intercepted upon his arrival at Sealdah station. A routine baggage check led to the discovery of the concealed firearms and ammunition. Following the seizure, law enforcement personnel immediately took him into custody for further investigation.

Preliminary inquiries suggest that the weapons originated from Bihar, specifically Mansingh, and were transported to Kolkata via Kaliachak in Malda. Investigators are now working to trace the supply chain and identify any larger networks involved in the illicit arms trade.

STF officials have initiated legal proceedings and are preparing a detailed seizure report near Sealdah station. The accused is currently being interrogated to uncover potential connections and ascertain the final destination of the smuggled arms. Authorities remain vigilant and have intensified surveillance to prevent further instances of illegal arms trafficking in the city. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are anticipated as law enforcement agencies continue their crackdown on unlawful activities.
Politics, West Bengal

Allegations of Water Supply Disruption Over Voting in Kolkata

Leave a comment

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 17, 2025, Kolkata: Allegations have surfaced against Trinamool Congress (TMC) councilor Lipika Manna of Ward No. 107 in Kolkata, accusing her of disconnecting water taps in certain localities as a punitive measure for not voting. Several residents claim that they were warned of water supply cuts if they failed to vote in favor of the ruling party.


A total of 40 families have lodged a complaint with Borough Chairman Sushant Ghosh, stating that the councilor had explicitly mentioned that water facilities would be restricted for non-voters. A local resident expressed frustration, stating that water taps could no longer be installed in the area due to objections, allegedly because of the presence of a nearby school. The resident further emphasized the hardships faced in fetching water from distant locations. He also mentioned that while locals are frequently called to attend meetings and political processions, they often choose not to participate. However, they claim that the councilor insists on their daily presence at the party office, despite their non-affiliation with any political group.

An elderly woman, who had approached the councilor with a petition, recounted the experience, stating that she was treated with extreme rudeness. She added that when she expressed her inability to join political processions due to her age, her concerns were disregarded.

Reports indicate that four water taps in the affected area have allegedly been relocated to the banks of a nearby canal, exacerbating the residents’ struggles. Addressing the grievances, Borough Chairman Sushant Ghosh acknowledged that he had received a petition a month ago regarding the ongoing water crisis, which, according to locals, has persisted for the past 12 to 13 years. Residents claim that four water connections were severed near Narkelbagan, prompting them to seek intervention.

In response, Ghosh stated that upon receiving the complaint, he immediately sought clarification from the borough executive. Officials informed him that the lines had not been permanently cut but were temporarily disconnected to investigate water distribution issues. He assured the residents that necessary steps would be taken to restore the supply. Emphasizing the importance of equal access to public utilities, Ghosh asserted that voting preferences should never be a determinant for the provision of essential services.
Politics, West Bengal

Speculation Grows Over Dilip Ghosh’s Potential Return as BJP State President Ahead of Amit Shah’s Kolkata Visit

Leave a comment


Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, March 16, 2025, Kolkata :  Former BJP state president Dilip Ghosh is set to visit the West Bengal Assembly on Tuesday at 2 PM to meet with BJP MLAs, sparking widespread speculation regarding his future role within the party. Ghosh’s visit comes during a crucial pre-election phase, fueling rumors that he might be in line to reclaim the position of BJP state president.

The political buzz surrounding Ghosh has intensified as other key figures within the state BJP, including current State President Sukanta Majumdar and prominent leader Shuvendu Adhikari, are expected to meet with Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday night. It is anticipated that discussions surrounding leadership roles, including the state BJP president position, will be on the agenda.

Amit Shah, who is scheduled to visit Kolkata on March 29 for a one-day trip, is expected to hold a series of organizational meetings in preparation for next year’s assembly elections. Majumdar confirmed that Shah’s visit will focus on strengthening the BJP’s organizational framework, with the likelihood of a state president being announced before the visit gaining traction.

Majumdar also revealed that the central leadership has been informed that 25 district presidents have been elected, marking a significant step towards the selection of the state president. However, Majumdar clarified that no formal instructions have been received yet, and the nomination process will commence once the green light is given by the central leadership.

As the political drama unfolds, Dilip Ghosh’s meetings with BJP MLAs prior to the state president announcement are adding fuel to the speculation, with many watching closely to see how these developments will shape the party’s strategy ahead of the crucial state elections.

error: Content is protected !!