Latest TMC News | Top TMC News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking TMC News Today | English TMC News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Leadership tussle erodes BJP’s space in Bengal

June 22, 2025, 2:19 am

BJP in West Bengal faces internal strife, with three factions competing for leadership and control.

NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal is currently grappling with an internal crisis, as the state unit finds itself fractured into several factions, each competing for authority and influence. According to party insiders and political experts, three distinct power centres are now steering the direction of the BJP in the state—a division that many believe is hindering the party’s ability to present a formidable opposition to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Leading the first and arguably the most assertive faction is Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly. Having made a highprofile switch from TMC to BJP just ahead of the 2021 state elections, Adhikari has steadily positioned himself as one of the key faces of the party in Bengal.

Sources within the party suggest that he is aiming for the role of state BJP president and is projecting himself as the most suitable candidate to lead the party into the 2026 Assembly polls. The second faction is built around former state BJP president Dilip Ghosh. Credited with delivering the party’s best-ever electoral performance in the state under his leadership, Ghosh continues to command significant loyalty among grassroots workers. His supporters are actively advocating for his return as state president. However, he appears to have been increasingly marginalised by the current leadership, with his noticeable absence from multiple recent party functions fuelling rumours of a widening internal rift.

The third and currently official power centre is Sukanta Majumdar, the incumbent state BJP president and Union Minister of State. Known for his close ties with the central BJP leadership, Majumdar’s camp continues to enjoy considerable clout within the organisation. As his term draws to a close, there is strong speculation that the central leadership may choose to either extend his term or retain him in the post until the next Assembly elections.

Observers and analysts argue that this fragmented leadership structure is proving detrimental to the BJP’s political effectiveness on the ground. “The party has missed several strategic opportunities due to its lack of unified direction,” remarked one senior political analyst. “The emergence of multiple power centres has not only created internal confusion but has also weakened the party’s organisational strength at the grassroots level.”

Both internal sources and external political commentators believe that unless the BJP’s national leadership steps in to settle the leadership disputes and establish a clear, united chain of command, the party risks squandering its momentum in the state and losing ground to the wellentrenched TMC. With the 2026 state Assembly elections approaching steadily, the focus will remain on how the BJP resolves these internal leadership issues and whether it can consolidate its ranks to mount a credible and cohesive challenge in West Bengal’s volatile political environment.

TMC opposes Op Sindoor narrative on the ground

June 8, 2025, 1:54 am

TMC counters BJP’s Operation Sindoor narrative amid 2026 election tensions.

Kolkata: The ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has launched a strategic campaign to counter the political advantage gained by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) through Operation Sindoor, a military strike conducted on May 7, 2025, targeting terror bases in Pakistan.

With the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections looming, the TMC is working to reclaim the narrative, accusing the BJP of politicising the operation for electoral gains while highlighting the Central Government’s security failures.

Operation Sindoor, the retaliatory strike following the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians, destroyed nine terrorist bases and eliminated more than 100 terrorists.

The BJP has leveraged the operation to fuel nationalistic fervour, organising Tiranga Yatras in Kolkata and other towns and cities in the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have spearheaded the BJP’s campaign, with Shah accusing Banerjee of opposing the operation to “appease the Muslim vote bank” during a rally in Kolkata on June 1, 2025, while linking her to the recent Murshidabad riots.

The TMC’s counter-campaign focuses on three fronts.

First, the party has reaffirmed its support for national security, while carefully avoiding giving any credit to the BJP-led Central Government. TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee joined a multi-party delegation to brief nations like Indonesia on India’s anti-terror stance.

A five-member TMC team, including Derek O’Brien, also visited Srinagar and Poonch to support families affected by cross-border shelling.

Mamata has repeatedly stated her support for the armed forces, emphasising the TMC’s alignment with national interest.

Second, the TMC has accused the BJP of exploiting Operation Sindoor for votes.

On May 31, TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh called the BJP’s strategy an “insult to Bengal,” while Mamata criticised Modi for trivialising the sacred symbol of sindoor.

On June 6, TMC MLA Narendranath Chakraborty stirred controversy by labelling the operation a “staged drama,” though he later claimed his remarks were misinterpreted.

In a video clip that went viral on social media on Friday, Chakraborty is seen telling an audience, “The way they (the Bharatiya Janata Party) have started this Sindoor Khela (game of vermilion), it seems that the entire episode is a staged drama. This warmongering by the BJP is nothing but a game. In Operation Sindoor, PM Modi has played with the emotions of patriotic people, including women.”

He alleged, “A group of miscreants came three days after all the protection was withdrawn in Pahalgam. They singled out and shot dead 27 people after asking them if they were Hindus, wore sindoor, and could recite Kalma. You are aware of this story.”

Chakraborty also claimed, “Now they have come out to play with sindoor, which runs in the blood of Bengalis. If they play with sindoor, they need to be taught a proper lesson. They have to be thrown into the dustbin for playing with the sindoor of mothers.”

He argued, “The perpetrators are yet to be found. The fact is they are never found because this is a game plan to play ‘Hindu, Hindu’ and polarise the Hindu vote bank. It is a script to spark a communal tussle between Hindus and Muslims to stay in power and continue to rule the country.”

Third, the TMC has highlighted the Central Government’s failures, with leaders like Chandrima Bhattacharya demanding Shah’s resignation for failing to prevent the Pahalgam attack.

However, the TMC’s campaign has faced challenges. The BJP has seized on controversial statements, with leaders like Suvendu Adhikari demanding NIA probes into the Trinamool Congress’s “anti-national” remarks.

Slamming Chakraborty, the BJP’s Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari pointed out on his X handle that Chakraborty “has prior knowledge or insights into such a heinous act; it is imperative that the NIA take him into custody for questioning to uncover the source and credibility of his information.”

He added, “I urge the NIA to act swiftly and summon Narendranath Chakraborty to ascertain the facts. The people of India have the right to know the truth behind his statements and whether they point to any larger network.”

Separately, a leader of the BJP’s minority cell filed an FIR against the Trinamool MLA.

In the FIR, the complainant called for action against Chakraborty, alleging he had made an “anti-national statement belittling the valour and sacrifice of armed forces and encouraging Pakistan-sponsored terrorists to destabilise India.”

Public sentiment, as reflected on social media platforms, remains divided, with some praising the TMC’s stance and others criticising it for undermining national security.

TMC to join all-party outreach after Rijiju dials Mamata

May 21, 2025, 1:32 am

The Trinamool Congress has decided to send its na- tional general secretary and Lok Sabha MP, Abhishek Banerjee, with the all-party delegations that will visit different countries to con- vey India’s stance on terror- ism and drum up support in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, the party said on Tuesday.

Trinamool Congress sources said that the de- cision came after Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju called Trinamool supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Ma- mata Banerjee to “pacify” her and seek her suggestions for a representative from her party to the delegations.

“We’re delighted to share that our Chairperson Smt. @MamataOfficial has nominated Nat’l GS Shri @abhishekaitc to represent Trinamool Congress in the all-party delegation for India’s global outreach against terrorism. At a time when the world must unite to confront the growing threat of terrorism, Shri Abhishek Banerjee’s inclu- sion brings both conviction and clarity to the table. His presence will not only reflect Bengal’s firm stand against terror but also strengthen India’s collective voice on the global stage,” the party shared on X.

The Centre had earlier named Berhampore Trinamool MP and former India cricketer Yusuf Pathan as a member of one of the seven diplomatic delegations that will travel to different countries to explain India’s stand on terrorism and expose Pakistan against the backdrop of Operation Sindoor.

However, Pathan later opted out after Mamata Banerjee and her nephew Abhishek Banerjee made their displeasure public. On Monday, Mamata Banerjee had said the Centre should not decide who the party nominates to the delegations.

Mamata Banerjee said the Centre did not consult the Trinamool Congress “mother party” to seek the name of its representative in the multi-party delegations, adding: “If they request me to send someone’s name, we will decide it and tell them. This is customary and is the system. We are totally with the Centre regarding the foreign policy.”

Mamata also said: “Nowadays, they (Centre) don’t inform the mother party, but only the parliamentary party. However, the parliamentary party only works for the Parliament session, it cannot take policy decisions. No requests came to us. If the request comes to us, of course, we can consider it. We are totally in favour of the country’s best interests.”

Toeing her stance, Abhishek Banerjee said the leadership of a party should decide on the names of its representatives for the diplomatic mission to counter Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, while simultaneously affirming the party’s support for the Centre in its anti-terrorism efforts. “I believe that whatever decision the Union Government takes if it aims at combatting and curbing terrorism, safeguarding the sovereignty of the nation and protecting the national interest we, as a party, will stand with the Centre shoulder-to-shoulder. But if there is a multi-party delegation being sent, it will be up to the individual party to decide its representatives,” he had told reporters at Kolkata airport before leaving for Delhi on Monday.

The international parliamentary outreach on Operation Sindoor involves a total of 51 political leaders, including current members of Parliament, former Ministers, and eight former Ambassadors. They will be divided into seven separate delegations, each tasked with visiting major world capitals to explain and assert India’s position on counterterrorism and the rationale behind Operation Sindoor.

All these developments are taking place in the wake of India’s launch of Operation Sindoor on May 7, which was described as a strong military response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 Indian citizens were killed.

During Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces carried out strategic strikes on terrorist infrastructure located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

TMC pulls out of all-party global outreach, says BJP can’t pick names

May 20, 2025, 12:59 am

The Trinamool Congress has decided not to be a part of the multi-party delegations which are to be sent to different countries to put across the Indian standpoint and rally global support for India’s war against terror originating from Pakistan.

The party has conveyed to the Centre that it will not send Yusuf Pathan or any other party MP as a part of multi-party delegations.

Sources said the Trinamool Congress is also of the view that the Modi Government has embarked on this exercise as a diversionary tactic.

Mamata Banerjee said the Centre did not consult the Trinamool Congress “mother party” to seek the name of its representative in the multi-party delegations, adding: “If they request me to send someone’s name, we will decide it and tell them” The Central Govern- ment has named cricketer- turned-politician Yusuf Pathan, who is a Trinamool Congress MP from the Baharampur Lok Sabha seat in Murshidabad, as a member of one of the seven multiparty delegations, which are going to visit several countries in the coming days to convey India’s message in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. Pathan is the lone Trinamool Congress member included in such a delegation.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chairperson Mamata Banerjee said: “They (Centre) cannot decide the name (of the AITC representative) on their own. If they request the mother party, the party will decide the name.“This is customary and is the system. We are totally with the Centre regarding the foreign policy,” adding that “If they request me to send someone’s name, we will decide it and tell them”.

Mamata said: “Nowadays, they (Centre) don’t inform the mother party, but only the parliamentary party. However, the parliamentary party only works for the Parliament session, it cannot take policy decisions. No requests came to us. If the request comes to us, of course, we can consider it. We are totally in favour of the country’s best interests.”

She also said, “It is wrong to say that we are boycotting or not going. They need to inform the party. The parliamentary party discusses the Bills in Parliament. It takes decisions regarding Parliament, and that too, after consulting with the party. I am the chairperson of the Trinamool Parliamentary Party in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. However, we were never informed.”

Earlier in the day, Trinamool national general secretary and MP Abhishek Banerjee, while speaking to the media at Kolkata airport, said: “How can the Union Government decide on the representative of Trinamool? They should have held discussions with the Opposition to decide which representative a party will send.” Abhishek said, “How can the BJP decide which representative Trinamool will send? Trinamool is not boycotting the (all-party) meeting.

Trinamool is the only party which has not politicised the matter of national security.” He said, “Whatever decision the Union Government takes, which is aimed at combating and curbing terrorism, safeguarding the sovereignty of the nation, and protecting the national interest, we as a party will stand with the Centre shoulder-to-shoulder.”

TMC squirms as ‘Abhishek Banerjee’ named in CBI chargesheet

February 27, 2025, 1:43 am

Kolkata: A day before West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee is slated to address party leaders to set the roadmap for the 2026 Assembly elections, the CBI created a stir by submitting a chargesheet in the jobs-for-cash scam naming “Abhishek Banerjee” without identifying who the person was.

Though Trinamool Congress leaders and spokespersons professed ignorance about the identity of the person named in the charge sheet, the lawyer for Abhishek Banerjee, the party’s second-in-command and Mamata Banerjee’s nephew, sent out a press release on his behalf, saying that the claims made in the latest CBI charge sheet regarding the alleged teacher recruitment case in West Bengal were “misleading and unsubstantiated”.

The CBI, in its third supplementary charge sheet submitted in the multi-crore cash-for-school job case, referred to an audio file of a recorded conversation from 2017 and named a certain Abhishek Banerjee who demanded Rs 15 crore for the illegal appointments.

The State’s Opposition parties have repeatedly alleged involvement of Mamata Banerjee’s nephew and Lok Sabha MP Abhishek Banerjee in the scam. The TMC MP has already appeared before Central probe agencies – the ED and the CBI – multiple times and faced examinations in connection with the alleged recruitment irregularities.

The 28-page charge sheet was filed by the CBI on February 21, and indicted Sujay Krishna Bhadra alias ‘Kalighater Kaku’ (uncle of Kalighat) and two others in connection with irregular appointments of teachers in state-run primary schools made through the selection process of Teachers Eligibility Test (TET), 2014.

The CBI identified Bhadra as the Chief Operating Officer of M/S Leaps and Bounds Private Limited. Previously the ED had named TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee as the CEO of the company who had also remained one of its directors for a limited period.

In its charge sheet, the CBI refers to a “meeting held in 2017 at Bhadra’s Behala residence” where charge-sheeted accused Kuntal Ghosh, Shantanu Banerjee and two others, Aurobindo Roy Barman and Surajit Chanda, were also present.

The agency states that at the insistence of accused Kuntal Ghosh, his staff “Aurobindo Roy Barman had recorded the conversation on his mobile phone and later transferred the audio file to his laptop which was later recovered during investigation”.

While claiming that the purported conversation discussed the modus operandi of collection of bribes from undeserving candidates and getting them illegally appointed by manipulating the result, the CBI states that the appointments were secured by Ghosh, Banerjee and Bhadra “through accused Partha Chatterjee, the then Education Minister”.

“There was a rift between Abhishek Banerjee and accused Partha Chatterjee on the issue of illegal appointment and the accused Sujay Krishna Bhadra was heard saying that Abhishek Banerjee had demanded Rs 15 crore for the illegal appointment already done and when Sujay Krishna Bhadra express (sic) his inability to collect more money since the candidates had already paid Rs 6.50 lakhs each, then Abhishek Banerjee told Sujay to stop their appointment else he would get those candidates arrested or get the candidates posted at distant places,” the CBI states referring to the recorded conversation on page 15 of the charge sheet.

“It was also revealed that Sujay Krishna Bhadra, Santanu Banerjee and Kuntal Ghosh were planning for a collection of a bribe amount from additional 2000 candidates, for their appointment, to the tune of Rs 100 crore for paying off Shri Partha Chatterjee, Shri Abhishek Banerjee and Shri Manik Bhattacharya (co-accused former primary board president and TMC MLA now out on bail) Rs 20 crore each and sharing the remaining amount among themselves,” the agency further stated in its charge sheet.

In rebuttal, the statement issued by TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee’s advocate further said: “Despite my client’s full cooperation with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) – appearing whenever summoned and providing all necessary documents – the CBI has resorted to baseless allegations. Notably, the ED, responsible for investigating alleged proceeds of crime, has not filed any charge sheet against my client, underscoring the absence of incriminating material against him.”

“The alleged third supplementary chargesheet is nothing more than a fishing expedition aimed at harassing my client. The CBI has failed to provide a shred of corroborative evidence, with no supporting documents appended to its claims. This is yet another instance of my client being unjustly targeted.”

The statement alleged that after failing through the Enforcement Directorate, political forces had turned to the CBI, misusing central agencies to push their agenda. “This latest chargesheet is a desperate bid to create suspicion despite the glaring lack of evidence,” the statement said.

Sanjoy Basu, advocate of Trinamool Congress’s Number Two Abhishek Banerjee, said the CBI’s “politically motivated narrative is a blatant attempt to tarnish Shri Abhishek Banerjee’s reputation. By inserting unverified statements into a case concerning others, the agency has raised serious concerns about the fairness of its investigation.”

The statement reiterated that Abhishek Banerjee remained resolute in his pursuit of truth and justice and would not be intimidated by these “baseless allegations and will fight relentlessly to expose this conspiracy, safeguard his integrity, and ensure justice prevails”.

In another telling development, the banner behind the stage for the Trinamool Congress’ mega meeting tomorrow only featured the picture of Mamata Banerjee and the picture of Abhishek Banerjee was conspicuously missing.

Mamata Banerjee Ready to Lead INDIA Bloc, Says ‘If Given the Opportunity’

December 7, 2024, 11:46 am

After TMC MPs proposed making Mamata Banerjee the leader of the opposition alliance, the West Bengal Chief Minister responded. She said she would be willing to lead if asked. This comes amid rising disagreements within the INDIA bloc over Congress’s recent losses in Haryana and Maharashtra, as well as its insistence on debating one specific issue in Parliament.

Banerjee Clarifies Leadership Role

Mamata Banerjee made it clear that she is not leading the INDIA alliance. “I formed the INDIA bloc; now it is up to those leading the front to manage it. If they can’t run the show, what can I do?” she stated. She also said, “I am not leading that front.”

When asked if she would accept the leadership role, she responded, “If given the opportunity, I would ensure its smooth functioning.”

TMC MPs Push for Banerjee’s Leadership

Recently, TMC MPs like Kalyan Banerjee and Kirti Azad urged Congress and other INDIA bloc allies to recognize Mamata Banerjee as the opposition leader. They highlighted her success in defeating BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in West Bengal.

“Mamata Banerjee has a perfect record. Whenever Narendra Modi has faced defeat, it has always been in West Bengal,” Kalyan Banerjee said. He added, “Even in the recent by-elections, where the BJP had one seat and we had five, Mamata Didi hit a six and threw Narendra Modi out of the West Bengal boundary.”

INDIA Bloc’s Mixed Reactions

Shiv Sena (UBT) expressed support for Mamata Banerjee’s leadership. They said they are aware of her views and want her to be a major partner in the INDIA alliance. “We know this opinion of Mamata ji. We also want her to be a major partner of the INDIA alliance,” they stated. They also mentioned they would meet her soon in Kolkata.

However, Congress dismissed the suggestion. Congress leader Manickam Tagore called it “a good joke” when asked about the proposal.

BJP Criticizes INDIA Bloc’s Leadership Issues

The BJP criticized the INDIA bloc, calling it a group of parties united only against Prime Minister Modi, without a clear agenda. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari said, “Mamata Banerjee’s statement makes it clear that the entire INDIA alliance does not have faith in the leadership of Rahul Gandhi.”

TMC and Congress: A Strained Relationship

TMC and Congress have often disagreed, even within the INDIA bloc. They have clashed over issues like seat-sharing and contesting elections independently. Recently, tensions grew after Congress’s poor performance in Haryana and Maharashtra.

During the winter session of Parliament, TMC differed from Congress by opposing disruptions over the Adani issue. While Congress demanded a discussion on the Adani controversy, TMC focused on issues like central funding and the Manipur crisis. TMC also skipped several INDIA bloc meetings at the start of the winter session.

Despite being part of the same alliance, TMC and Congress continue to face challenges in their relationship.

TMC Leader Allegedly Forces Same-Day Autopsy in Kolkata Doctor’s Case, Threatens ‘River of Blood

September 23, 2024, 3:35 pm

Nearly two months after the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor at the state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, new allegations have surfaced. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has accused a Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader of pressuring the forensic team to rush the autopsy process on the day of the incident.

Claims of Autopsy Interference by TMC Leader

On Monday, Adhikari shared a video featuring a forensic medicine expert who claimed that a former councillor, identifying himself as a distant relative of the deceased, urged the forensic team to expedite the postmortem and complete it the same day. This forensic expert, who was questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in its ongoing investigation, made the revelation while leaving the CGO Complex on Sunday.

Forensic Doctor Apurba Biswas, who was a member of the team which conducted the post-mortem on the 31-year-old Junior Lady Doctor; raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College, was summoned by the CBI.
While leaving after the questioning, he made a explosive revelation to the… pic.twitter.com/XCrWYQ2gbV

— Suvendu Adhikari (@SuvenduWB) September 23, 2024

Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in West Bengal, identified the person involved as Sanjib Mukherjee, a former CPIM councillor of Panihati Municipality who later joined TMC. “The individual is Sanjib Mukherjee, now a close associate of Panihati TMC MLA Nirmal Ghosh,” Adhikari wrote in a social media post.

Concerns Over the Hasty Cremation

Adhikari raised concerns over the rushed cremation of the victim. He alleged that Mukherjee, despite not being a family member, signed the cremation certificate. “Everyone knows the victim was cremated in haste. The police were overseeing the process at the crematorium, and there was an unusual urgency to dispose of the body,” he claimed.

Furthermore, Adhikari pointed out the presence of another signatory on the cremation certificate, Somenath Dey, who shares the same name as a former TMC councillor. Adhikari questioned if it was the same individual involved in the cremation process.

The trainee doctor’s father had also voiced his concerns, stating that his daughter’s body was cremated without proper delay. The CBI has alleged that Abhijit Mondol, the former officer-in-charge of Tala Police Station, was complicit in rushing the cremation, despite the family’s request for a second autopsy.

Allegations Against TMC MLA Nirmal Ghosh

Adhikari also alleged that Panihati MLA Nirmal Ghosh was involved in hastening the cremation process, reportedly acting “on the instructions of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.” Ghosh was interrogated by the CBI in connection with the case on Monday.

A CBI officer stated that Ghosh played a significant role in organizing the quick final rites of the deceased doctor. Ghosh appeared at the CBI’s CGO Complex office in Salt Lake at 10:30 am on Monday, where he was questioned regarding his involvement in the incident at RG Kar hospital.

Case Background: Nationwide Outrage

The body of the postgraduate trainee doctor was found with severe injuries in the seminar hall of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, sparking nationwide outrage. The incident led to protests and a cease-work movement by junior doctors across the country. So far, three individuals, including the former principal of the hospital, have been arrested in connection with the case. The CBI continues its investigation into the matter.

Kolkata Doctor’s Rape-Murder: Bengal To Introduce Tough Anti-Rape Bill

September 3, 2024, 12:46 pm

The ruling Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal is set to introduce a groundbreaking anti-rape bill in the state assembly on Tuesday. Named the “Aparajita Woman and Child Bill (West Bengal Criminal Laws and Amendment) Bill 2024,” this proposed legislation aims to significantly tighten the legal framework surrounding rape and sexual violence in the state.

Key Provisions of the New Bill

The bill introduces stringent measures, including the imposition of the death penalty for individuals convicted of rape if the crime results in the victim’s death or a permanent unconscious state. Additionally, it mandates life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for convicted offenders.

Amendments to Existing Laws

The Aparajita Bill proposes amendments to several sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) 2023 and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, as well as the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012. Specifically, it seeks to amend Sections 64, 66, 70(1), 71, 72(1), 73, 124(1), and 124(2) of the BNS 2023, which pertain to the punishment for various forms of rape and related crimes. The bill also proposes to remove Sections 65(1), 65(2), and 70(2) related to punishments for offenders under different age categories.

Improved Investigation and Trial Procedures

The Anti-Rape Bill aims to streamline the investigation process by reducing the deadline for investigations from two months to three weeks, with a possible extension of up to 15 days under special circumstances. It also proposes life imprisonment for repeat offenders, which would be defined as imprisonment for the remainder of the offender’s natural life or death, accompanied by a fine.

Formation of Special Task Forces

To handle cases efficiently, the bill calls for the creation of a special task force named “Aparajitha Task Force” at the district level. Led by a deputy superintendent of police, this task force will be equipped with the necessary resources to manage investigations and minimize the trauma experienced by victims and their families.

Special Courts and Confidentiality Measures

Additionally, the bill proposes the establishment of special courts to handle rape and sexual assault cases. It also includes provisions for maintaining confidentiality during court proceedings, with penalties of 3 to 5 years imprisonment and fines for unauthorized disclosures.

Legislative Session

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called for a two-day session of the state assembly starting Monday to table the bill. State Law Minister Moloy Ghatak will introduce the bill during this session.

The introduction of this Anti-Rape Bill reflects the state government’s commitment to creating a safer environment for women and children in West Bengal.

Mamata Banerjee’s Second Letter: BJP Responds ‘A backlog of 48,600 Rape Cases Still Not Solved in West Bengal’

August 31, 2024, 5:19 am

The Union Women and Child Development Minister, Annapurna Devi, has responded to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s second letter requesting stricter laws and expedited justice for heinous crimes like rape and murder. In her letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Banerjee called for a mandatory time-bound disposal of such cases. This call for action came amid the ongoing CBI investigation into the rape and murder of a junior doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Minister Devi’s response highlighted discrepancies in Banerjee’s claims regarding the establishment of Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) in West Bengal. Devi pointed out that while the state has 88 Fast Track Courts (FTCs), which are different from FTSCs under the central scheme, West Bengal has yet to operationalize an additional 11 FTSCs despite a backlog of 48,600 rape and POCSO cases. Devi accused Banerjee of presenting incorrect information and attempting to cover up delays in the implementation of FTSCs.

The BJP has criticized Banerjee, questioning her commitment to enforcing existing regulations designed to protect women. Amit Malviya, the BJP co-incharge for West Bengal, demanded an explanation from Banerjee for not ensuring strict implementation of these rules, calling her letters a mere distraction.

Regarding Banerjee’s request for permanent judicial officers in FTSCs instead of retired ones, Devi stated that the scheme guidelines specify a different arrangement, with one judicial officer and seven staff dedicated to handling rape and POCSO cases. Devi clarified that permanent officers could not be assigned additional charges related to FTSCs as per the guidelines.

The rape and murder case of the junior doctor has caused nationwide outrage, with calls for reforms to ensure safety and dignity in workplaces. The Trinamool Congress has accused the BJP of politicizing the tragedy, while the BJP has countered with allegations of corruption within the medical college. The former principal of the college, Sandip Ghosh, is under investigation, and the CBI has arrested Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer, who was seen near the scene of the crime.

TMC Accuses BJP of Orchestrating Chaos During Nabanna Abhijan Protest

August 27, 2024, 5:08 pm

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has accused the BJP of orchestrating chaos during the Nabanna Abhijan protest march, following violent clashes between protesters and police on Tuesday. TMC MP Mahua Moitra criticized the demonstrators, describing them as “goons” who provoked the police to react.

In a post on social media platform X, Moitra stated, “Police get bricks thrown at them by #WeDontNeedNoEducation ‘Chhatras,’ SHO’s head split. Many policemen hurt. And @BJP4Bengal calls bandh to protest police ‘atrocities’. Same old playbook.” She added, “No – bodies have not fallen. Sorry BJP & GodiMedia to disappoint your ghoulish desires. This is not a common citizen’s march. Students? Women? Barely. A bunch of goons throwing bricks at police & goading them to react.”

The TMC’s official handle on X echoed Moitra’s sentiments, alleging that the protest was staged by the BJP to incite unrest in the state. “Make no mistake, this isn’t a protest for justice, it’s chaos orchestrated by @BJP4India – hired goons running amok, smashing barricades, and attacking on-duty police officers. This is a deliberate plot to incite unrest and destabilize Bengal,” the TMC posted.

In response, the West Bengal BJP announced a 12-hour bandh on Wednesday to protest against the police action during the Nabanna march. Earlier in the day, police resorted to tear gas, water cannons, and lathi-charge to disperse protesters on Howrah Bridge as they marched towards the West Bengal State Secretariat, Nabanna.

The protest was sparked by the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. Protesters clashed with police at multiple locations, including the Santragachi area, where they broke barricades and continued marching towards the Secretariat.

Demonstrators, many holding the tricolour, included students and citizens demanding justice for the deceased doctor. The West Bengal Police had deployed heavy security around the Secretariat in anticipation of the protest.

The situation remains tense as the political battle over the incident intensifies, with the TMC and BJP trading accusations amid public outcry for justice.

Kolkata Doctor’s Murder: Durga Puja Committees Urged To Reject Bengal Govt’s Rs 85,000 Grant

August 18, 2024, 8:29 am

As protests intensify over the recent rape and murder of a female doctor in Kolkata, BJP leader Sajal Ghosh, a prominent figure in the Durga Puja celebrations, has called on all Puja committees across West Bengal to reject the state government’s Rs 85,000 honorarium. This move, he argues, would serve as a protest against the government’s “failure to ensure women’s safety.”

Ghosh, the chief organizer of the widely attended Santosh Mitra Square Puja in North Kolkata, has long been known for creating themed pandals that attract large crowds. Speaking to PTI, Ghosh expressed his deep dissatisfaction with the current administration. “Women are being violated, raped, and murdered in public spaces, workplaces, and even their homes under Mamata Banerjee’s regime. The government has failed to protect them. When public outrage grows, she blames everyone but herself,” Ghosh stated.

He specifically referenced the recent case where a young woman doctor was allegedly raped and murdered while on duty at her hospital, with only one arrest made so far. “In light of this tragic event, it would be paradoxical for Puja committees to accept the Rs 85,000 grant from a government that has shown such a lack of concern for women’s safety,” Ghosh added.

Despite the tragedy, Ghosh mentioned that his committee has not altered its original plans for the Puja celebrations, which include a dazzling display of lights and a spectacular sphere of illumination. He did, however, leave open the possibility of paying tribute to the victim, saying, “We are considering it, but nothing has been finalized yet. The Puja is a time when people want to escape from their sorrows and stress.”

Ghosh noted that his Puja committee has historically refused financial support from the state, except for the first year when the government offered Rs 10,000 to every community Durga Puja.

In response to Ghosh’s appeal, Debashis Kumar, the chief organizer of the popular Tridhara Sammilani Puja and a TMC MLA, challenged Ghosh to seek a vote among all Durga Puja committees regarding the acceptance of the honorarium. “If Ghosh is so certain about the committees’ opinions, he should initiate a vote. Otherwise, his statements are merely political posturing,” Kumar told PTI.

Kumar further criticized Ghosh for linking the tragic incident with Durga Puja celebrations, accusing him of “insulting the sentiments of thousands of Hindus and Puja organizers across the state.”

Partha Ghosh, president of the Shivmandir Puja Committee and a founding member of the Forum for Durgotsab, also weighed in on the controversy. He suggested that the decision to accept the state honorarium should be left to the discretion of each individual Puja committee.

Congress And TMC Question SEBI’s Integrity Over Adani Probe By Hindenburg

August 11, 2024, 11:13 am

Drawing on the Latin phrase “Quis Custodiet Ipsos Custodes” from the Roman poet Juvenal’s ‘Satires,’ Congress party questioned SEBI’s unusual hesitation to probe the Adani MegaScam. This criticism came on Saturday after a new report from US short-seller Hindenburg Research made allegations against SEBI chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch and her husband.

Congress General Secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh, on Saturday, took to X to post “Quis Custodiet Ipsos Custodes” in the party’s statement “on the latest Hindenburg revelations.”
The US-based firm on Saturday, alleged that Buch and her husband had a stake in “both the obscure offshore entities used in the Adani money siphoning scandal.” Congress has demanded that the government “act immediately to eliminate all conflicts of interest in the SEBI investigation of Adani.” The party argued that “the seeming complicity of the highest officials of the land can only be resolved by setting up a JPC [Joint Parliamentary Committee] to investigate.” Trinamool Congress leader Mahua Moitra also took to X, posting, “In true Adani style – even SEBI Chairman is investor in his group. Crony Capitalism at its finest. @CBiHeadquarters&@Dir_ED – will you be filing POCA and PMLA cases or not?”

After releasing a teaser on the morning of August 10, suggesting a major revelation concerning India, Hindenburg published a report by the end of the day that stated, “We had previously noted Adani’s total confidence in continuing to operate without the risk of serious regulatory intervention, suggesting that this may be explained through Adani’s relationship with SEBI Chairperson, Madhabi Buch.” The report further stated, “What we hadn’t realized: the current SEBI Chairperson and her husband, Dhaval Buch, had hidden stakes in the exact same obscure offshore Bermuda and Mauritius funds, found in the same complex nested structure, used by Vinod Adani.” Hindenburg Research posted a link for the entire report on its X account. “New from us,” read the tweet, adding “Whistleblower Documents Reveal SEBI’s Chairperson Had Stake In Obscure Offshore Entities Used In Adani Money Siphoning Scandal.”

Hindenburg Research asserted that the new allegations were based on documents supplied by a whistleblower and investigations conducted by other parties. The report stated, “Madhabi Buch and her husband Dhaval Buch first appear to have opened their account with IPE Plus Fund 1 on June 5, 2015 in Singapore, per whistleblower documents. A declaration of funds, signed by a principal at IIFL states that the source of the investment is “salary” and the couple’s net worth is estimated at USD 10 million.”

In January 2023, Hindenburg Research released a report accusing the Adani Group of financial misconduct, which caused a substantial decline in the company’s stock price. At that time, the Adani Group dismissed these allegations. The earlier Hindenburg report had claimed that the conglomerate engaged in stock manipulation and fraud, specifically alleging that Adani had inflated its share prices. Following the publication of these allegations, the stocks of various Adani group companies fell sharply, with losses reportedly exceeding USD 100 billion. The January report from the US short seller came just two days before Adani Enterprises was set to launch a USD 2.5 billion follow-up public offering. Adani Group has consistently denied all the claims made in the Hindenburg Research reports.

TMC MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay Slams 18% GST on Health Insurance as ‘Anti-People’

August 2, 2024, 4:21 pm

On Friday, All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay criticized the Union government’s decision to impose an 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on medical and health insurance, labeling it as “anti-people” and detrimental to citizens across the country.

In a conversation with reporters, Bandyopadhyay highlighted that the issue of GST on health insurance has been a significant concern for West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He stated, “We have raised the issue today, calling for an immediate withdrawal of GST on life insurance premiums and medicines. Our Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee voiced her concerns yesterday. We believe this GST is anti-people and is negatively impacting the citizens of our country.”

Bandyopadhyay urged the government to reverse this decision, emphasizing that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman should address the matter in Parliament without delay. “If necessary, we will take to the streets under the leadership of Mamata Banerjee to mount a larger movement,” he added.

In solidarity, TMC Lok Sabha MPs also staged a protest demanding the removal of GST on medical and health insurance.

The day prior, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had called on the central government to retract the GST from life insurance and medical insurance premiums. Taking to X, she stated, “Our demand to the Government of India is to roll back GST on life insurance and medical insurance premiums due to its adverse impact on people’s health needs. This GST is harmful as it impedes people’s ability to manage their essential health requirements. If the Government of India does not withdraw this anti-people GST, we will be compelled to take to the streets.”

Earlier, on July 31, TMC leader Kunal Ghosh criticized the BJP for allegedly withholding funds for the 100-day wage employment scheme, attributing the issue to the BJP’s defeat in the 2021 Assembly elections. Ghosh noted that TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee had requested a white paper from Finance Minister Sitharaman detailing budget allocations to West Bengal, but this request remains unaddressed.

“The central government has failed to provide funds for the 100-day wage employment scheme, forcing the Chief Minister to use Rs 59 lakh from state funds. They justify this by citing irregularities, while BJP-ruled states like Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh continue to receive funds. We will persist in our protests both inside and outside Parliament until the funds for the 100-day wage employment scheme and the housing scheme are released,” Ghosh asserted.

Ghosh further insisted that Sitharaman must produce the white paper requested by Banerjee, highlighting that the BJP has collected Rs 4.64 lakh crore in taxes from West Bengal over the past four financial years, with pending dues exceeding Rs 1.71 lakh crore. “We need clarity on funding for MGNREGA and the housing scheme. Our protests will escalate under the leadership of CM Mamata Banerjee and MP Abhishek Banerjee,” he concluded.

Akhilesh Yadav To Join TMC’s ‘Shahid Diwas’ Rally In Kolkata

July 21, 2024, 1:20 pm

Samajwadi Party (SP) Chief Akhilesh Yadav left his residence in Lucknow on Sunday to join the Trinamool Dharmatala Rally, held later in Kolkata on the same day. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is observing its annual ‘Shahid Diwas’ (Martyrs’ Day) today, in remembrance of the 13 people shot dead in Kolkata in 1993 during a protest by the West Bengal Youth Congress. A large crowd has gathered in Esplanade, Kolkata, for the TMC rally.

On July 20, Mamata Banerjee took to her social media account on platform X to write about the upcoming Shahid Diwas. Banerjee wrote, “21st July is a blood-soaked day in the history of Bengal. 13 lives were brutally taken away by the repressive regime of CPI (M) on this day in 1993. I lost 13 of my co-fighters in my battle against repression. 21st July is, therefore, an emotive milestone for us. 21st July is an integral part of Bengal’s public culture today.”

She further remembered the heroic martyrs who died that day and wrote, “We remember those heroic martyrs every year on this historic day with love and respect. Along with them, we also remember all who have sacrificed their lives in movements for our country and fellow human beings.”

She added, “Simultaneously, we observe this day as ‘Ma-Mati-Manush Divas’, and dedicate our democratic electoral victories to the people of West Bengal. There lies another abiding significance of the day.”

Inviting people to the program at Esplanade, she wrote, “Tomorrow, at this Martyrs’ Day program at Esplanade, I invite all of you in Bengal. Like every year, this year too, I trust our congregation will find meaning through your eager participation in the collective homage to the martyrs.” As she expressed in a poem: “21st July is soaked with blood and tears. Tributes galore in remembrance of the martyrs,” she added.

BJP in Bengal to Line Up Mass Movement Against TMC Govt

July 16, 2024, 5:30 am

Ahead of the announcement of a series of mass movements in Bengal at BJP’s working committee meeting to be held this week, Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari announced a ‘Ganatantra Hatya Divas’ rally on July 21, the day Trinamool observes as Martyrs’ Day.

The BJP plans to stage protests across West Bengal, including Kolkata, against the State’s deteriorating law and order, particularly in response to post-poll violence. Adhikari said that party workers would burn the effigies of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim in front of police stations on July 21.

The BJP, which has previously called for implementation of the President’s rule in the State, has now demanded the enforcement of the Disturbed Areas Act in the State. A Disturbed Area Act is one that has been declared by notification under Section 3 of the AFSPA.
Adhikari, who held a dharna in front of Raj Bhavan on Sunday, also announced the launching of a portal to register names of those who could not cast their votes in the recently held Lok Sabha elections and four assembly by-polls.

“We will observe July 21 as ‘Ganatantra Hatya Divas’. Millions of people could not vote in the Lok Sabha polls. A specific community was not allowed to vote as the Trinamool party was afraid of losing in many seats. We will organize mass movements for such people who were denied their right to vote,” Adhikari said.

Bengal BJP, which got permission to hold a dharna in front of Raj Bhavan following a Calcutta High Court order, claimed that nearly one crore people could not cast their votes in the 2023 panchayat election. “In the bypolls, nearly 50,000 people in Raiganj could not vote; in Ranaghat 70,000 people were stopped from casting their votes, while in Bagda 10,000 people could not vote. People in at least eight wards in Maniktala could not vote this time,” Adhikari said.

While more than a dozen MLAs attended the dharna, Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar and the party’s former national vice-president, Dilip Ghosh were not present. Former Lok Sabha MP Arjun Singh said that merely issuing statements would not be sufficient to build an offensive against the Trinamool Congress.

Adhikari said that mass movements, on the lines of those in Nandigram, would be launched soon.

Adhikari also demanded implementation of the Disturbed Areas (Special Courts) Act, 1976, in Bengal. “Like in Manipur, the Disturbed Areas act should be enforced in Bengal. We don’t need Article 356 here. We are in no hurry to come to office in the State. We want to give protection to people.”

Every year on July 21, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addresses a public gathering in Kolkata to commemorate the 1993 firing. At least 13 people were shot by the city police and scores more were wounded during a rally by the West Bengal Youth Congress under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership on July 21, 1993.

Reacting to the BJP’s plans, Kunal Ghosh, Trinamool Congress spokesperson, said: “Are they mad that they are talking about having a programme against Mamata Banerjee on July 21? That day marks the martyrdom of innocent people who, under Mamata di’s leadership, were demanding proper voting rights. The context, importance and depth of martyrs’ day rally is beyond conventional politics. It is a watershed moment in Indian democracy.”

“On the other hand, the BJP has been staring at successive electoral defeats,” he said. “Every leader is working at cross purposes. They are alienated from people. They have spoken about launching a grievance portal. We believe the first caller will be Dilip Ghosh, who might ask why he was forced out of the Midnapore Lok Sabha seat to Bardhaman-Durgapur. Agnimitra Paul might complain about why Dilip loyalists worked at cross purposes in Midnapore, leading to her defeat. It remains a fact that wherever Adhikari has campaigned, including the four bypolls, they have only faced defeats. So, it is nothing but a feeble attempt to divert attention from the losses,” he said.

Viral Video: TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee’s Mockery Of BJP’s Slogan Sparks Controversy In Lok Sabha

July 2, 2024, 3:27 pm

A video of Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee ridiculing the Bharatiya Janata Party’s election slogan ‘abki baar 400 paar’ in the Lok Sabha went viral on Tuesday, July 2.

“They played the game with ‘abki Paar 400 paar.’ There are many games, and chu-kit-kit is one of them,” Kalyan Banerjee said.

Explaining the game, the MP from West Bengal’s Srerampur constituency noted that the slogan ‘400’ echoed loudly with ‘chu’ and concluded with ‘kit-kit’.

“You only won 240 seats and still lost that game,” he commented.

Chu-kit-kit, a popular children’s game in West Bengal, is often considered a modified version of Hopscotch. The game involves drawing nine squares inside a large triangle, where players must strike a stone while keeping their other leg off the ground.

Players start the game by loudly saying ‘chu’, and ‘kit-kit’ is pronounced more slowly.

Kalyan Banerjee’s description amused his party MPs, including Mahua Moitra and first-time MP Saayoni Ghosh.

This is the clip from the speech of ⁦@Trinamool⁩ ‘s MP Kalyan Banerjee

ये कौन से खेल के बारे में बात कर रहे हैं ? pic.twitter.com/NTqi3PZt92

— Saurabh shukla (@Saurabh_Unmute) July 2, 2024

While addressing the House, Banerjee was seen looking at fellow parliamentarians, prompting Speaker Om Birla to intervene and ask him to focus on him.

In response, Kalyan Banerjee said, “Sir, I am looking at you only… There is no one smarter in this House than you. There is no gentleman like you… Everyone looks at you only.”

On December 19, 2023, Kalyan Banerjee had mimicked Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar during the Opposition’s protest on the stairs of Parliament against the suspension of MPs, drawing strong condemnation from the ruling BJP.

His actions were met with strong disapproval from the BJP. Dhankhar had then stated in the House that he would not tolerate any disrespect to Parliament or the constitutional position of the vice president.

Banerjee later defended his actions, stating that mimicry is a form of expression and that the right to dissent and protest is fundamental.

The TMC MP, who was suspended from the Lok Sabha along with several others from both Houses, reiterated that the right to dissent and protest is a fundamental right.

Reacting to Banerjee’s comments in the House, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonwala said in a post on X (formerly Twitter), “Yesterday “Hindu Hinsak Hai”; jibes at Chair by Rahul Gandhi. Now the most atrocious and disgusting comments aimed at Speaker’s Chair by Kalyan Banerjee who even mocked posture of VP Jagdeep Dhankar.”

“I agree Congress, TMC got few more seats than expected. So does that mean mock Hindus – mock Constitutional positions – make Parliament a platform for comedy? Not a word by TMC on Talibani Tajmul who was defended by TMC MLA by saying that the victim was characterless and this flogging is ok in Muslim Rashtra! Mahua Moitra laughs and claps – how many words for the victim of Tajmul? For Sandeshkhali??” he added.

Opposition’s chances for Dy Speaker’s post appear dim

July 2, 2024, 5:23 am

Ruling government and opposition appear to be at loggerheads again. The opposition could encounter a setback in appointment the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha. This time, TMC has stepped forward independently, nominating Awadhesh Prasad from the Samajwadi Party as the candidate for the Indi Alliance. Unlike the Presidential election disappointment, Rahul Gandhi chose not to hurry this time. However, the joint nomination of Awadhesh Prasad by TMC and SP has cast doubts on the unity within the Indi Alliance.

It seems that TMC is not particularly enthusiastic about Rahul Gandhi’s leadership. TMC has put Congress in a dilemma where it is unable to respond, even if it desires to. However, the main question remains whether the government will hold elections for the Deputy Speaker or assign the post to an ally. There are also signs that the Deputy Speaker’s position might remain vacant.

According to sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appears reluctant to concede the Deputy Speaker’s post to the opposition. Initially, the post will be offered to allies; otherwise, BJP will retain it, given NDA’s majority. PM Modi’s decisive approach since the formation of the NDA government indicates he operates without external pressure. From cabinet formation to departmental allocations and Lok Sabha Speaker elections, PM Modi has consistently exerted influence over the opposition.

Certain instances like, condemnation of the Emergency in the President’s address and then keeping silence in the Lok Sabha, all these things indicate that PM Modi is not going to come under pressure for now. Regardless of the opposition’s protests, the government remains steadfast and unmoved. Speaker Om Birla’s newfound outspokenness in the House suggests a direct influence from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

Since his reelection as Speaker, Birla’s demeanor has notably transformed, evident in his rebuke of Deepender Hooda’s suggestions and direct responses to Rahul Gandhi’s statements.

Today, when Rahul Gandhi supported Defense Minister Rajnath Singh’s proposal for a debate on NEET, Birla asserted his authority in deciding the course of discussions. The government’s firm stance indicates that it will not yield easily to opposition pressure.

The government’s strategy, particularly its focus on condemning the Emergency, appears effective, leading Congress to pivot away from constitutional discussions. Experts predict that the opposition’s efforts to secure the post of Deputy Speaker will likely falter. Despite nominating Awadhesh Prasad, a Dalit leader from Faizabad, Congress faces a numerical disadvantage that may hinder their prospects.

‘Muslim rashtra’ comment by TMC MLA intensifies row with BJP

July 2, 2024, 5:19 am

Hours after the video of a Trinamool Congress leader Tajmul Haque alias JCB publicly flogging a woman in Chopra in Uttar Dinajpur district of West Bengal went viral, Trinamool Congress MLA Hamidul Rehman justified Tajmul beating the woman, who cries in pain. The video shows a large crowd watching Tajmul hitting the woman and a man with the stick. The attack followed a decision by a kangaroo court.

“In our Muslim rashtra, there are certain rules of conduct and punishment. But it became a little extreme this time. That is why we are now reprimanding the villagers,” the MLA said. He added that it was a “village matter” and had nothing to do with the party. We condemn the incident. But the woman also did wrong. She left her husband, son, and daughter and became an evil beast. There is some code and justice according to Muslim rashtra.

However, we do agree that what happened was a bit extreme. Now, legal action will be taken in this case,” the Trinamool MLA told reporters.

The MLA’s words set off a fierce political row in Bengal and in New Delhi, even as another viral video emerged of similar atrocities on a couple by Tajmul recorded on June 16.

Bharatiya Janata Party State President and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar said that the video signals the Trinamool’s trajectory towards establishing what he termed a governance model akin to ‘sharia law’ in West Bengal.

Referring to the incident as ‘concerning’, Majumdar in a post on ‘X’ wrote, “Statements from TMC’s Hamidul Rahaman referring to a ‘Muslim Rashtra’ and discussing punishments under ‘certain rules’ are deeply concerning. Is TMC declaring West Bengal a state where Sharia law will be applied?”

BJP IT Cell head Amit Malviya shared the video on ‘X’ and said, “This is the ugly face of Mamata Banerjee’s rule in West Bengal. The guy in the video, who is beating up a woman mercilessly… is famous for giving quick justice through his ‘insaf’ sabha and is a close associate of Chopra MLA Hamidur Rahaman.”

“Is this an official admission by Mamata Banerjee Govt that West Bengal is now officially a Muslim Rashtra and Sharia, not the Constitution of India, will apply? Chopra is a Muslim majority area and keeps voting for the TMC. Mamata Banerjee must speak up as she is under oath to defend the Constitution. We can’t allow Sharia to replace it,” he said.

“There is a Sandeshkhali in every village of West Bengal and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is a “curse for women”. “There is no semblance of law and order in Bengal. Will Mamata Banerjee act against this monster or defend him like she stood up for Sheikh Shahjahan?” Amit Malviya said.

The aftershocks of the flogging and its defence by the local MLA reached Delhi as well. BJP president JP Nadda also lashed out at the Mamata Banerjee-led Government over the incident and said that to make matters worse, TMC cadre and MLAs are justifying the act. “Be it Sandeshkhali, Uttar Dinajpur or many other places, Didi’s West Bengal is UNSAFE for women,” he wrote on X.

BJP leader and spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia said: “It won’t be wrong to say ‘Jungle-raj kaisa hota hai? Mamataraj jaisa hota hai…Mamata Banerjee is worried about the protection of TMC goons. Tajmul aka JCB is shredding the Constitution to pieces. TMC MLA Hamidul Rehman said to a journalist that some laws in Muslim countries are like this. Is Hamidul Rehman taking forward your (Mamata Banerjee) mentality? ”

The West Bengal Police on Sunday registered a case over the incident and arrested the accused. In a disturbing development, the West Bengal police were forced to shift Tajmul Haque from Chopra to Islampur for fear of attack on the police station, Jobi Thomas, SP, Islampur police district told newspersons.

BJP MP Kangana Ranaut expressed her anger on the I.N.D.I. Alliance over the violence in West Bengal. She said Sharia law is being imposed arbitrarily in Bengal.

West Bengal Police Arrests Man Who Publicly Assaulted The Woman In Viral Video

July 1, 2024, 1:37 pm

The West Bengal police arrested the man who publicly assaulted a woman in a horrific viral video from Chopra located in Uttar Dinajpur district on Monday.

The man identified as Tajemul, popularly known as JCB in the area, heinously assaulted a woman.

Check The Video

The newly minted, self styled saviours of India’s #Constitution haven’t spoken a word on the ghastly subversion of it in Bengal, where criminals are dispensing instant justice through ‘insaf sabhas’, in accordance with Sharia laws, in gross violation of all Constitutional norms… pic.twitter.com/vYnnHrLOGP

— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) July 1, 2024

Later, this horrific video went viral on social media. Later, opposition leaders took a note of this incident. Union Health minister and BJP leader JP Nadda slammed WB CM Mamta Bannerjee over the alleged breakdown of Law & Order in the state.

Taking to X, he said, ‘A horrific video has come to light from West Bengal, reminding of the brutalities that exist only in theocracies. To make matters worse, the TMC cadre and MLAs are justifying the act….Be it Sandeshkhali, Uttar Dinajpur or many other places, Didi’s West Bengal is unsafe for women.’

A horrific video has come to light from West Bengal, reminding of the brutalities that exist only in theocracies.

To make matters worse, the TMC cadre and MLAs are justifying the act.

Be it Sandeshkhali, Uttar Dinajpur or many other places, Didi’s West Bengal is UNSAFE for…

— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) July 1, 2024

BJP’s West Bengal’s Co-InCharge also shared details of the incident, alleging that the man who publicly assaulted the woman is famous for giving quick justice through Insaf sabha and is a close associate of Chopra MLA Hamidur Rahaman.

Further he also alleged, that ‘there is sandeshkhali in every village and CM Mamata Bannerjee is a curse for women.’

However, the Local TMC MLA Hamidur Rahman denied the connection and is maintaining distance from this incident. Asserted, this is village matter.

Governor CV Ananda Bose to Address TMC Leader Kunal Ghosh’s Remarks Post 4 PM

June 29, 2024, 9:33 am

Reacting to the “untold story of hotel Taj Palace” and “3 pm” remarks made by Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh, West Bengal Governor Ananda Bose stated on Friday that he would respond after the deadline given by Ghosh. The Governor remarked, “I will answer it after 4:00 pm that day.”

The conflict between the Governor and the ruling Trinamool Congress over the oath ceremony of two newly elected Trinamool MLAs intensified following Ghosh’s comments. Kunal Ghosh had warned, “I would like to respectfully inform Governor CV Ananda Bose that if both our Trinamool Congress MLAs are not sworn in by 3 pm on Monday, then from Tuesday the untold story of the Taj Palace in Delhi will come up.”

Meanwhile, West Bengal Legislative Assembly Speaker Biman Bandyopadhyay expressed hope that Governor CV Ananda Bose would understand the situation and attend the assembly soon for the oath ceremony of the two new MLAs. Bandyopadhyay said, “I wrote a letter to the President of India and yesterday night I had a conversation with Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar. Last time when Mamata Banerjee won in a by-election from the Bhawanipur assembly, the then Bengal governor Jagdeep Dhankar came to the assembly and an oath ceremony took place. I think this time also the same rule should be followed by the present Governor of West Bengal.”

On Thursday, the two newly elected Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLAs, Reyat Hossain Sarkar and Sayantika Banerjee, began a sit-in protest in front of the BR Ambedkar statue at the West Bengal Legislative Assembly premises. This protest followed Governor CV Anand Bose’s refusal to administer the oath or delegate the responsibility to the Speaker.

Reyat Hossain Sarkar and Sayantika Banerjee won the assembly by-elections from the Baranagar and Bhagwangola constituencies, respectively, with results declared on June 5. Sarkar secured 107,096 votes in Bhagwangola, and Banerjee received 69,251 votes in Baranagar. Both MLAs were unable to take their oaths due to a dispute over the venue of the swearing-in ceremony.

BJP alleges Muslim woman stripped, beaten for supporting party in Bengal

June 29, 2024, 4:45 am

The Bharatiya Janata Party has alleged that the Muslim woman, who was a BJP Minority Morcha leader in Cooch Behar district in north Bengal, was assaulted, disrobed and paraded by Trinamool Congress supporters on June 25. Following the incident, video of which has gone viral, Union Minister and West Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar on Friday formed a seven-member team, led by MLA Agnimitra Paul, to visit the spot and submit a report to him by early next week. The West Bengal Police reported that a case was registered regarding the incident, and three suspects have been arrested.

BJP’s Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari said that he has written to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the National Commission for Women (NCW), and the National Commission for Minorities (NCM), urging them to investigate the incident.

In his letters, Adhikari wrote: “One Hossainara Begum, vice-president, BJP Minority Morcha, daughter of Bajle Rahaman of Village Rangamati, P.O. Ramthenga, P.S. Ghoksadanga, Dist. Cooch Behar, has been brutally attacked. She was dragged by her hair and subjected to severe physical assault and her dress opened in broad daylight. She has been admitted to the hospital and her condition is alarming.

“This is another example of post-poll violence in West Bengal where minority community women are also not being spared of physical assault by the ruling TMC hooligans. This brutal incident has shocked the Muslim community. I request you to send your investigation team to the spot and enquire into the matter. I am sending the copy of the complaint and photographs of the victim for your necessary action.”

Agency reports quoted the alleged victim, speaking from the hospital, as saying: “TMC goons said they were punishing me for being associated with the BJP”. However, the Trinamool Congress denied the allegation, claiming the incident was related to a property dispute.

“The TMC has nothing to do with the incident. This incident is the result of a property dispute. The allegations are baseless and politically motivated,” Trinamool spokesperson Santanu Sen said.

Meanwhile, Coochbehar Police released a statement titled: “Coochbehar Police fights rumours”. It said: “It has come to our attention that false rumours are being spread regarding an incident involving a Muslim woman in Coochbehar, West Bengal. It is being falsely reported that the woman was stripped and beaten for supporting a political party.

This misinformation is being used to give communal and political colours to a family dispute for vested interests. The police said that the actual incident occurred on the afternoon of June 25, 2024. The victim. along with other local villagers. was at the bank of the Mansai River to graze goats and cut grass for feeding.

A quarrel broke out over a previous grudge between the victim and four other women from the same village. During this altercation. the victim’s clothes were torn. A case was promptly registered at Ghoksadanga Police Station based on the victim’s father’s complaint. Within 24 hours. three of the named accused were arrested.”

“Safikul Mia, the brother-in-law of the victim, took a photograph of her secretly and circulated it, which has fuelled these false rumours. His confessional video statement has been recorded, and he has been arrested. His phone has been seized for forensic examination.

“The victim’s mother and son have both provided video statements confirming that this was purely a family fight among the women over grass cutting. No men were involved in the fight or the assault. The incident is a family matter and should not be given any communal or political colour,” the police statement said.

BLURB

“The TMC has nothing to do with the incident. This incident is the result of a property dispute. The allegations are baseless and politically motivated,” Trinamool spokesperson Santanu Sen said. “The victim’s mother and son have both provided video statements confirming that this was purely a family fight among the women over grass cutting. No men were involved in the fight or the assault. The incident is a family matter and should not be given any communal or political colour,” the police statement said.

CAPTION

Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari speaks to the media in Kolkata on Friday. ANI

Bengal Speaker reaches out to President, VP to end swearing-in impasse with Governor

June 29, 2024, 4:37 am

After writing to President Droupadi Murmu seeking her help to resolve the deadlock with Governor CV Ananda Bose over the venue for the swearing in ceremony of the two newly elected Trinamool Congress MLAs, Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee reached out to Vice-President and former Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar in an effort to resolve the impasse. Before becoming the Vice-President of India, Dhankhar was the Governor of West Bengal from July 2019 to July 2022.

“Last night I called up Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar and requested him to look into the matter. I also informed him that I had also written to President Droupadi Murmu regarding the issue. What is happening regarding the swearing-in of the MLAs is unacceptable,” he told mediapersons on Friday.

Two Trinamool Congress MLA candidates, Sayantika Bandyopadhyay and Rayat Hossain Sarkar, had won the bye-elections to Baranagar and Bhagabangola respectively. The bye-elections were held simultaneously with the last phase of the Lok Sabha polls on June 1 and the results were declared on June 4.

The row over the venue for the swearing in ceremony of the two newly elected Trinamool Congress MLAs intensified since the two leaders refused to take oath at Raj Bhavan as directed by Governor CV Ananda Bose and staged a dharna in the Assembly complex. The Governor had invited the duo to take the oath in the Raj Bhavan on Wednesday. However, they declined the invitation, claiming that convention dictates that in the case of bye-poll winners, the Governor assigns the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker to administer the oath.

Meanwhile, on Friday, Sayantika Bandyopadhyay and Rayat Hossain Sarkar resumed their dharna for the second consecutive day in front of BR Ambedkar’s statue in the Vidhan Sabha complex demanding that Bose enable them to perform their duties as legislators by facilitating the oath-taking ceremony in the Assembly.

Sayantika Bandyopadhyay, who was an actress before turning to politics, also told mediapersons that she “felt unsafe going to Raj Bhavan since a female staffer had accused the Governor of making inappropriate advances. My family members won’t allow me to go to Raj Bhavan alone as they are also aware of reports of a woman being molested there. Who will take the responsibility of my safety and security?”

Meanwhile on Friday, the Governor’s office criticised Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her remarks suggesting women allegedly felt unsafe going to Raj Bhavan stating that it is expected of public representatives not to create “erroneous and slanderous impressions.”

“It is expected of public representatives to uphold the Constitution and refrain from creating erroneous and slanderous impressions that may cast aspersions on the Governor,” the Raj Bhavan said on X. Mamata had alleged on Thursday that she received complaints from women who felt unsafe going to Raj Bhavan after reports of certain activities there, and stressed that the Governor has no right to prevent the oath-taking process.” A political storm had erupted in May over a complaint by a Raj Bhavan woman employee who had accused the Governor of “molesting” her, even as Bose had dubbed the allegations as “baseless and absurd drama”.

The Governor’s office clarified that the newly elected MLAs had initially requested a venue shift to the Assembly due to personal preferences but had not raised any specific safety concerns about Raj Bhavan otherwise.

“The newly elected MLAs had requested the Hon’ble Governor to consider shifting the venue to the Assembly because of their personal preferences and never expressed any apprehensions about coming to Raj Bhavan otherwise,” the post added.

When the MLAs declined the Governor’s invitation to take the oath at Raj Bhavan on Wednesday, Bose left for New Delhi the same evening.

Yesterday, Mamata Banerjee had stated that Bandyopadhyay and Sarkar were unable to take the oath despite having got elected a month back, and had accused the Governor of obstructing them from doing so.

The Raj Bhavan post, however, said all issues are addressed by the Governor with “promptitude and constitutional propriety as also this one”.

“Responses unjustifiably critical of the Governor were least expected from an experienced public representative,” it added.

Mamata shoots off protest letter to PM on Teesta

June 25, 2024, 3:54 am

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Monday slammed the Centre for not inviting her to be a part of talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina. She raised strong objections to the talks on water sharing between the Centre and Bangladesh, while excluding West Bengal, a key stakeholder.

Highlighting the close relationship between Kolkata and Dhaka, Banerjee said: “Such unilateral deliberations and discussions without consultation and the opinion of the State Government are neither acceptable nor desirable.”

The West Bengal Chief Minister wrote: “No discussion on sharing of Teesta water and the Farakka Treaty should be taken up with Bangladesh without the involvement of the State Government. The interest of people in West Bengal is paramount which should not be compromised at any cost.”

In the recently held bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Modi and his Bangladesh counterpart, Sheikh Hasina, the two leaders discussed the conservation and management of the River Teesta and the renewal of the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty.

Addressing the media after the meeting, PM Modi said that a technical team will soon visit Bangladesh to discuss “conservation and management of the Teesta River.”

India plans to construct a large reservoir and related infrastructure to manage and conserve Teesta’s water.

However, this proposal has met with staunch opposition from Mamata Banerjee, who has long resisted water-sharing agreements, citing the negative impacts of the Farakka barrage, including erosion, siltation, and flooding in West Bengal.

“People of West Bengal will be the worst sufferers due to the impact of such agreements. I came to understand that the Government of India is in the process of renewing the Indo-Bangladesh Farakka Treaty (1996) which is to expire in 2026. It is a Treaty which delineates the principles of sharing of water between Bangladesh and India and as you are aware it has huge implications for the people of West Bengal for maintaining their livelihood and that the water which is diverted at the Farakka Barrage helps in maintaining the navigability of the Kolkata port,” she said in the letter to Prime Minister Modi.

In her three-page letter, Mamata Banerjee wrote: “I would like to bring to your notice that river morphology has changed in the eastern part of India and Bangladesh over many years which deprived West Bengal and negatively impacted the water availability in the State.

There has been eastward migration of the Ganges (and Padma to Bangladesh) over the last 200 years disrupting their link with several rivers in West Bengal. For example, Jalangi and Mathabhanga rivers got disconnected from Padma and the fresh water inflow into the Sundarban has reduced.

“It is very pertinent to mention that the flow of silt into the Hooghly has also reduced over the years after the barrage was constructed. This has accentuated erosion by the rivers and the areas both in the upstream and downstream of the barrage have faced serious loss of “life and property including public infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, health centres, power lines in the past.

1st Parliament Session: TMC’s Mahua Moitra Shares Photos With Women MPs

June 24, 2024, 5:11 pm

Displaying the strength of the opposition, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra posted 2021 vs 2024 images with some of the prominent opposition Lok Sabha women MPs, amidst the beginning of Lok Sabha’s first session.

This throwback picture from 2019 include women MPs like Mahua Moitra, Kanimozhi, Supriya Sule, Jothimani, and Thamizhachi Thangapandian, who were sitting on the bench in Lok Sabha parliament. The latest picture also includes new Lok Sabha MP Dimple Yadav.

Taking to X, Mahua Moitra posted the image with a caption, saying ‘Warriors are back.’

The warriors are back ! 2024 vs 2019@KanimozhiDMK @dimpleyadav @supriya_sule @jothims @ThamizhachiTh pic.twitter.com/D1lJGHFFhb

— Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) June 24, 2024

What Is the Constituency Of Women MPs

TMC politician Mahua Moitra represents West Bengal’s Krishnanagar constituency. While another women MP like Kanimozhi represents Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukkudi seat. As for other mentioned names, Supriya Sule, Jothimani, Thamizhachi Thangapandian, and Dimple Yadav respectively represent Maharashtra’s Baramati constituency, Tamil Nadu’s Karur, Chennai South seat, and Uttar Pradesh’s Mainpuri seat.

Meanwhile, 18th Lok Sabha session has just begun today, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other Cabinet ministers taking oath as members of parliament.

But amidst the oath-taking ceremony, opposition parties made an uproar over various issues like appointment of BJP leader Bhartruhari Mahtab as pro-tem Speaker, presence of irregularities in NEET-UG 2024 examination and shifting of statutes in parliament building complex.

Earlier before the Lok Sabha session, PM Modi issued a message saying, that citizens of the country expect ‘debate and diligence’ rather than ‘disturbance.’

Bengal Guv slams TMC govt for curbs on violence victims

June 15, 2024, 3:47 am

West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose on Friday slammed the Mamata Banerjee Government and the police for stopping post-poll violence victims from meeting him. The Bharatiya Janata Party has levelled allegations of post-poll violence against the Trinamool Congress, which the State’s ruling party has denied.

After going to Maheshwari Bhavan in central Kolkata to meet post-poll violence victims who have taken shelter there, Bose interacted with about 150 people staying there and took details of their complaints, Raj Bhavan officials said.

After meeting the people, a visibly disturbed Governor criticised the Mamata Banerjee Government for stopping the victims from meeting him yesterday.

Yesterday, the Kolkata Police had barricaded the roads leading to the gates of Raj Bhavan to prevent the BJP’s Leader of the Opposition from taking 200-odd victims of post-poll violence to meet the Governor who had given them permission to meet him. BJP leaders said that these are among the 10000-odd BJP supporters across Bengal who had been forced to flee their homes following the publication of the Lok Sabha elections on June 4.

“Unpardonable act that the Government prevented victims of violence from meeting the Governor,” Bose told mediapersons after meeting the victims at Maheshwari Bhavan. “The Bengal Chief Minister cannot deface the Constitution of India. It is a dance of death, a macabre of what is happening in West Bengal.”

He reminded Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee that “however high you may think you are, the law is above you.” he added.

He has also written a letter to Banerjee seeking clarification on the grounds upon which the police barred these individuals from meeting him. In his letter to the Chief Minister, Governor Bose underscored the importance of adhering to constitutional protocols, particularly in matters concerning governance and legislation. He called upon the State Government to provide explanations for its actions and urged against any attempts to undermine the authority of his office.

Bose, in his communication to Banerjee, also referred to constitutional norms that require Chief Ministers to intimate Governors about all decisions of the Council of Ministers relating to the administration of State affairs and proposals for legislation.

On Thursday, the Kolkata Police, citing Section 144 of the CrPC, which is in force outside the Governor House, deployed hundreds of policemen and put up barricades and prevented BJP member and Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, and the alleged victims of post-poll violence from entering the Raj Bhavan to meet Bose.

A senior aide to the Governor said: “The Governor had issued written permission to allow the delegation, including Suvendu Adhikari and the victims of the post-poll violence, to enter the Raj Bhavan and meet him. In spite of that, the police did not allow them to enter. The Governor today issued constitutional directives to the CM, wanting to know why they were stopped.”

Suvendu Adhikari and a woman victim of post-poll violence today also moved the Calcutta High Court on the issue. Hearing their petition, Justice Amrita Sinha wondered whether the West Bengal Governor was under “house arrest”, and said the Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari can visit the Raj Bhavan along with alleged victims of post-poll violence to meet Ananda Bose if permission is granted by his office.

Adhikari and another person had moved the court, claiming that despite having written permission, police stopped them from entering the Raj Bhavan on Thursday. Their lawyer claimed that on the basis of the permission granted to them to meet the Governor, they assembled near the Raj Bhavan, but were allegedly prevented by the police from entering the premises.

In his rebuttal, the Attorney-General stated that the visitors were stopped from entering the Governor House since the number of people who were to meet Bose along with Adhikari was not disclosed to the police beforehand.

Justice Amrita Sinha directed that the LoP could visit the Governor House along with the people allegedly affected by violence in the State after the Lok Sabha polls on the basis of permission granted by the Raj Bhavan.

During the course of hearing, the judge asked the State’s Advocate General whether the Governor was under “house arrest”.

Justice Sinha said: “When that is not the case, why were these people not allowed to meet the Governor despite having permission from his office?”

AG Kishore Dutta told the court that the allegations made by the petitioners were not true, and claimed that Adhikari’s secretary did not communicate with the police at the site as was requested when they reached the spot outside the Raj Bhavan on Thursday afternoon.

Adhikari’s lawyer opposed the submission of the AG, claiming that Dutta had not been properly briefed by the police.

TMC MPs Visit Protesting Farmers And Pledge To Bring Their Demands To Parliament

June 10, 2024, 6:57 pm

A group of five MPs from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) paid a visit to the farmers demonstrating at the Khanauri-Data Singh Wala border on Monday, a few days after the Parliamentary elections ended and as the protests at the Punjab-Haryana borders approached their fourth month.

The TMC delegation promised the farmers that their concerns would be discussed in the next parliamentary session and expressed solidarity with them in their demand for a legally guaranteed minimum support price (MSP) based on C2+50%. The MPs expressed TMC chief Mamata Banerjee’s profound concern for the farmers’ situation, which has prompted them to stage ongoing protests. After hearing the farmers’ complaints, they pledged to press the national government to accede to their requests.

Rajya Sabha member Sagarika Ghose said, “We 5 MPs visited the Khanauri border to meet protesting farmers. Our leader Mamata spoke to the farm leaders via phone to assure them of our support. AITC will fight shoulder to shoulder with the Annadaata for their demands and justice to farmers.”

“Mamata Banerjee is very close to Kisan Andolan, she went on hunger strike for 26 days in 2006 to protest against land acquisition in Singur. We will raise the issues of the farmers in Parliament and at every available forum. We are always standing with India’s Annadatas,” she added.

The leader of the non-political Farmer Forum SKM, Jagjit Singh Dallewal, claimed that despite their nearly four-month-long protests at the Punjab-Haryana borders, the central government has disregarded their demand for a legal right to MSP in accordance with the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission.

Lok Sabha Election Result 2024: Abhishek Banerjee Wins; Sets A Record Of Over 7 Lakh votes

June 4, 2024, 6:12 pm

Lok Sabha Election 2024 Result: Abhishek Banerjee wins by more than 7 lakh votes in Diamond Harbour constituency in West Bengal.

As the Lok Sabha Election 2024 Result comes to a close, let’s have a look at Abhishek Banerjee who is representing the All India Trinamool Congress from the Diamond Harbour constituency in West Bengal.

He is considered the de facto number two in the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for some years now, is currently making efforts to elevate his national profile.

His recent activities, such as accompanying Mamata Banerjee to Opposition unity meetings and representing the TMC in the coordination committee of the INDIA alliance, indicate a concerted effort to establish himself as a leader at the national level.

Rise in Politics

Abhishek has been a Member of Parliament since 2014, but his prominence within the TMC grew significantly following the party’s disappointing performance in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. After the party’s parliamentary seat tally decreased and the BJP made significant gains in West Bengal, Abhishek played a pivotal role in strategizing with poll strategist Prashant Kishor to rejuvenate the party’s prospects.

Following the TMC’s victory in the 2021 Assembly elections, Abhishek’s influence within the party further solidified. He was entrusted with overseeing the party’s expansion plans at the national level. However, the TMC’s attempts to establish a presence in states like Goa, Meghalaya, and Tripura faced setbacks.

Abhishek’s ascent within the TMC has not been without internal challenges, with some party veterans expressing dissatisfaction. Nevertheless, many within the TMC view him as the inevitable heir apparent to Mamata Banerjee.

Abhishek’s recent statewide yatra to bolster grassroots support and his involvement in candidate selection were credited for the TMC’s success in the panchayat polls in June. He has also been vocal in the party’s campaign against frozen Central funds, alleging retaliation by the BJP-led government for losing elections in West Bengal.

Abhishek casted his vote for Lok Sabha Election 2024 on June 1.

Mamata Banerjee Says TMC Ahead of BJP in Bengal Despite of Exit Polls

June 3, 2024, 7:14 am

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee dismissed the recent exit poll predictions, asserting that they do not align with the ground reality and were likely “manufactured at home” two months prior. In an interview with TV9-Bangla, she criticized the credibility of these forecasts, citing past instances where similar predictions failed to materialize.

Banerjee emphasized that the response of the people at her rallies contradicted the projections made by the exit polls. She pointed out the divisive tactics employed by the BJP and expressed scepticism about certain communities’ voting patterns in favour of the party.

Regarding the prospects of the INDIA bloc, Banerjee expressed optimism about the performance of regional parties like Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party, Tejashwi Yadav’s Rashtriya Janata Dal, M K Stalin’s Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, and Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena. She also addressed concerns about her party’s alliance with the CPI(M) and Congress affecting her chances of joining the central government if the INDIA bloc secured victory.

On the other hand, state BJP president Sukanta Majumdar exuded confidence in his party’s performance, predicting at least 25 seats in West Bengal and expressing a desire for even greater success. He highlighted the growing belief within his party and among the public regarding the BJP’s electoral prospects.

Meanwhile, CPIM central committee member Sujan Chakraborty echoed Banerjee’s scepticism towards exit polls, suggesting that public dissatisfaction with the TMC might influence the election results in areas where free and fair elections are conducted.

“It’s Mudda’ vs ‘Modi:” TMC’s Shatrughan Sinha On LS Elections 2024

June 1, 2024, 4:05 pm

Amid the ongoing last phase of the Lok Sabha election 2024 Veteran actor and TMC candidate from Asansol Lok Sabha seat, Shatrughan Sinha on Saturday showed confidence in the impending victory of the ‘INDIA bloc’.

Sinha rejected the assertions that the ruling party had won a landslide, claiming that the BJP’s alleged 400 seats were only a front.
Sinha presented the election as a fight between “Mudda” (issues) and “Modi,” emphasizing the crucial decision between “issues” and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s record.

“I have complete confidence that the INDIA bloc will win. No matter what the ‘Godi’ media or ‘Modi’ media says, their talk of 400 seats is just a show-off. It’s Mudda’ vs ‘Modi (issues versus PM Modi). On one side are the issues, and on the other is Modi’s failed promises,” Sinha said.

Citing unfulfilled promises, Sinha criticized PM Modi’s tenure, alleging a lack of credibility due to the failure to deliver on commitments made to the electorate.
“My friend, the Prime Minister, hasn’t fulfilled a single guarantee he made. He gave many promises but did not fulfil any. People are asking if he has fulfilled any of his previous guarantees. PM Modi has lost his credibility,” Sinha said.

Drawing from his political experience, Sinha expressed confidence in the electoral success of the ‘INDIA bloc’, predicting a comfortable majority for the coalition.

“I can say that this time the INDIA bloc will have a comfortable majority. It looks like the BJP might not even cross 200 or 150 seats,” Sinha said.

The race in the Asansol constituency is between SS Ahluwalia of the BJP and Shatrughan Sinha of the TMC.

With 34 seats, the TMC won the most electoral spoils in the state during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, while the BJP was only able to secure 2 seats. Two and four seats were won by the CPI(M) and the Congress, respectively.

But in a vote shock that few anticipated, the BJP upset the ruling TMC in the 2019 elections, taking 18 seats. The state’s ruling party now only has 22 members. With just two seats, the Congress came in a pitiful third place, while the Left Front only had one member left.

As per the ECI, Himachal Pradesh recorded a high voter turnout at 48.63 per cent till 1 pm.
Other states where polling is underway in the sixth phase are Bihar- 35.65 per cent, Chandigarh–40.14 per cent, Jharkhand–46.80 per cent, Odisha–37.64 per cent, Punjab–37.80 per cent, Uttar Pradesh–39.31 and West Bengal–45.07 per cent.
The seventh and final phase of polling in the largest festival of democracy started on Saturday at 7 am in the last 57 parliamentary constituencies across seven states and the Union Territory of Chandigarh.

According to the Election Commission of India, over 10.06 crore electors including approximately 5.24 crore male, 4.82 crore female and 3574 third gender electors are expected to exercise their franchise.

The Odisha State Legislative Assembly’s 42 remaining assembly constituencies are currently holding polls.
Exit poll results will be shown on multiple TV stations following the polls.
Exit polls are prohibited by the Election Commission from 7 a.m. on April 19 to 6:30 p.m. on June 1 till the end of polling. On Thursday, the intense campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections concluded.
In the course of the protracted campaign for the seven phases of the Lok Sabha elections, PM Modi conducted over 200 campaign events in 75 days, including roadshows and rallies. He conducted multiple interviews as well.
More than a hundred demonstrations and public engagement events, including Nyay Sammelans and Nyay Manch’ in Lok Sabha Elections.

Polling for the earlier six phases of Lok Sabha elections was held on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20 and May 25. Assembly polls have also been held in Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Odisha is also seeing simultaneous polls to Lok Sabha and assembly in the last four phases.