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“Friend Rapes a Friend?”: TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee Comments on Kolkata Rape, Sparks Outrage

June 28, 2025, 10:38 am

Senior Trinamool Congress MP Kalyan Banerjee has caused huge controversy with his comments on the gang-rape of a 24-year-old first-year student in South Calcutta Law College. His words, which were widely seen as insensitive and flippant, have attracted fierce criticism from the opposition BJP in West Bengal and rekindled debate over political connections and institutional responsibility.

“Who Will Protect Her?” Kalyan Banerjee Sparks Debate

Replying to queries from the media, Sreerampur Lok Sabha MP Mr Banerjee stated, “What can be done if a friend rapes his friend. Will the police be in schools? This was done by students to another student. Who will protect her (victim)?”

He continued to state, “Who does all this criminality and molestation? Some men do it. So, who should women fight against? Women should fight against these perverted men.”

TMC MP comes out in support of rapists!
In Kasba, a college student has been gang-raped by a TMCP leader and his gang. But TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee calls women’s safety concerns a mere “political agenda.”

In the RG Kar rape case, as Bengal rose in protest through “Raat Jago,”… pic.twitter.com/GL0r9TM0ee

— BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) June 27, 2025

The BJP labeled these remarks “disgraceful,” accusing the senior MP of downplaying the crime and shirking institutional responsibility.

Kalyan Banerjee Denies Party Links to Accused

When questioned regarding the accused’s relationship with Trinamool’s student wing, Mr Kalyan Banerjee distanced the party from the act and stated, “I don’t say the same thing repeatedly, still the same thing. Whoever has done it should be put behind bars right now. If a friend rapes his friend, how can it be called corruption? The safety and security situation is the same everywhere. So long as the attitude of men is like this, such activities will continue to happen. You (reporter) have a political inclination, that is why you have come with this mic to ask your question.”

Survivor’s Shocking Allegations

The gang-rape is said to have happened on Wednesday night within the South Calcutta Law College campus. The survivor was allegedly taken to a guard’s room next to the student union office by three guys — Monojit Mishra, a 31-year-old ex-student and criminal lawyer, and two students who are currently studying there, Zaib Ahmed (19) and Pramit Mukhopadhyay (20).

She claimed she was trapped in her quarters, raped by Mishra in front of the others and assisted by them. Her complaint contains shocking details: beaten with a hockey stick, refused an inhaler when she had a panic attack, and told she would be killed if she complained.

A medicolegal report authenticated the rape, verifying injuries, bite marks, scratches, and penile penetration by force.

Police Investigation and Arrests

All three accused have been arrested and remanded to four days of police custody. Their cell phones have been taken into custody and are being put through forensic analysis. The investigators are scanning for any video footage, since the survivor claimed the assault was captured on camera.

BJP Accuses TMC of Shielding Rapists

The political war escalated after pictures were leaked with Mishra and Trinamool top brass, including MP Abhishek Banerjee and Health Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya. The BJP labelled it a case of “political protection for rapists.”

Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari called for statewide agitations and asked the ruling party to stop keeping mum on the political connections of Mishra.

TMC Tries Damage Control

Women and Child Development Minister Shashi Panja reacted to the media, saying, “We don’t politicise the agony of a woman. The police have done their job. The accused won’t be spared, regardless of allegiance.”

She also aimed the BJP for obstructing the Aparajita Bill, which seeks the death penalty for rape in West Bengal, “Don’t speak of respect for women while obstructing the law that will give them protection.”

TMCP state president Trinankur Bhattacharya also clarified Mishra’s position in the student wing, “He was in a post in 2019. How could we possibly know what he would do in 2025? Were we fortune tellers? He is now not on any committee. But what party he belongs to is not the point. He is a rapist, he must be brought to justice.”

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.”

Saree, Slippers, & Cardigan: Mamata Banerjee Jogging in London’s Hyde Park | Watch

March 25, 2025, 6:14 pm

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was seen running at London’s Hyde Park wearing her traditional white saree with a green border and white slippers. Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Kunal Ghosh posted images and videos of her walk across London, from Buckingham Palace to Hyde Park, during her official trip to Britain.

লন্ডন। সকাল। মুখ্যমন্ত্রী বললেন,’ ওয়াক নয়, ওয়ার্ম আপ। হাইড পার্কের ভিডিও।’ একটু পরে হাইকমিশনে যাওয়া। pic.twitter.com/do6JsmeHtO

— Kunal Ghosh (@KunalGhoshAgain) March 24, 2025

Jogging in a Saree: Unique Fitness Regime of Mamata Banerjee

In the viral videos, Mamata Banerjee is seen appreciating the beauty of the city while briskly walking. She wore a black cardigan and a shawl to keep herself warm in the chilly London weather. TMC’s Kunal Ghosh tweeted on X (formerly Twitter), quoting Mamata Banerjee: “According to the Chief Minister, today it is not a walk, but a warm-up.” She was also seen clapping and back-walking as part of her exercise regimen.

Back walk. হাইড পার্ক। pic.twitter.com/4wkYU6ySQu

— Kunal Ghosh (@KunalGhoshAgain) March 24, 2025

This is not the first time the West Bengal CM has been spotted running overseas. On her 2023 Spain visit, she had a “refreshing morning” in Madrid, running in her saree and slippers. Her message was simple: “Stay fit, stay healthy!”

Strengthening Bengal-Britain Relations

Mamata Banerjee arrived in London on Sunday on an official visit to bolster Bengal’s relations with Britain. Speaking of the age-old connection between Bengal and Britain, she stressed its historical, cultural, and trade importance.

“As we landed in London yesterday, we stepped into a city that, much like Kolkata, carries the weight of its past while embracing the dynamism of the present. Before the day’s engagements commenced, I took a moment to immerse myself in the essence of London’s timeless grandeur. From its iconic landmarks to its storied streets, the city exudes an old-world charm that speaks of history and evolution – values that Bengal, too, holds close to its heart,” she posted on X.

Bengal and Britain share a relationship that spans centuries, rooted in history, culture, and commerce. As we landed in London yesterday, we stepped into a city that, much like Kolkata, carries the weight of its past while embracing the dynamism of the present.

Before the day’s… pic.twitter.com/xNx4tZ0crl

— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) March 24, 2025

Looking Ahead: Enhancing Relations with Britain

Mamata Banerjee indicated her desire to “”deepening Bengal’s engagement with Britain and reinforcing our enduring ties.” The visit features consultations with principal stakeholders to consider ways of cooperating in trade, culture, and education.

With TMC, SP Staying Away, Congress Continues to Raise Adani Issue in Unique Style

December 9, 2024, 11:58 am

Even as Congress is trying to corner the government over the Adani issue despite Trinamool Congress and Samajwadi Party staying away, the grand old party on Monday again continued with its unique protest by making two of party MPs wearing the mask of the businessman and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Trinamool Congress and the Samajwadi Party staying away from the protest over Adani issue, the Congress along with the other INDIA bloc MPs tried to put pressure on the government.

On Monday, the Congress again came up with the unique idea by bringing the mask of Adani and Prime Minister Modi.

Congress whip in Lok Sabha Manickam Tagore and parry MP Sunil Kalge wore the masks of Adani and Modi.

Even as the party MPs staged protest over the Adani issue, Rahul Gandhi interviewed the two MPs where Tagore ca be heard replying in an indirect jibe at the Prime Minister that ‘whatever he says he follows’.

On Friday, the Congress MPs staged the protest in Paiament premises by wearing rhe dace masks with ‘Adani Modi ek hai, Adani safe hai’.

On Thursday, the Congress MPs brought the stickers with the same slogan and pasted it on their jackets or shirts in Parliament premises over the Adani issue.

The Congress has been raising the issue of Adani Group after fresh revelations in US.

The US court had earlier late last month indicted Adani group in a bribery scandal, a charge denied by the Adani Group.

A five-count criminal indictment was unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn charging Gautam Adani, his nephew Sagar Adani and Vneet Jaain with conspiracies to commit securities and wire fraud and substantive securities fraud for their roles in a multi-billion-dollar scheme to obtain funds from US investors and global financial institutions on the basis of false and misleading statements.

Prosecutors claimed that the indictment alleges schemes to pay over $250 million in bribes to Indian government officials, to lie to investors and banks to raise billions of dollars, and to obstruct justice.

After Trinamool Congress, now Samajwadi Party also snubs Congress on Adani issue

December 5, 2024, 5:18 pm

New Delhi, Dec 5: Days after snubbing from the Trinamool Congress over the Adani Group indictment issue in US, the INDIA bloc on Thursday once again was left red faced when Samajwadi Party also did not attend the protest to demand Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe on the issue.

On Monday, it was first the Trinamool Congress which did not join the meeting of the Indian National Developmental Incmusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc at the office of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over the Leader of Opposotion in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi’s one point agenda to target the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre.

On Thursday, once again when the INDIA bloc partners led by Congress formed the human chain in Parliament premises demanding for a JPC, the Samajwadi Party members remained absent from the protest.

While Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, KC Venugopal and several other leaders joined the protest and the Gandhi scion himself wearing a T-Shirt with ‘Adani and Modi ek hai, Adani safe hai’ written on the back of it.

The Congress leaders targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi closeness with businessman Gautam Adani.

The discontent among the INDIA bloc is growing day by day as after Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress, it was the turn of Samajwadi Party to stay away from the protest targeting government over Adani issue.

The Trinamool Congress wanted to use the Winter Session of Parliament to raise issues related to public including — Inflation, unemployment, Manipur, Bangladesh issue among others.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party on Wednesday raised the issue of Sambhal in the Parliament.

Akhilesh Yadav himself led from the front on Wednesday and accused the BJP-led stare government of murdering the brotherhood in Uttar Pradesh and also alleged that the government was being run by the high headed officials.

However, none of the Samajwadi Party leaders commented on why it did not join the protest on Thursday in Parliament premises over Adani issue.

On Thursday, even Akhilesh Yadav was in Kanpur and he did not attend the Parliament session.

The Congress has been demanding that all business should be suspended for a discussion on the U.S. Department of Justice indictment against directors of Adani Green.

There is a sense among the INDIA bloc members that Rahul’s ‘obsession’ with Adani will lead to a washout of the Winter session of Parliament, giving the BJP-led NDA an easy route of not being held accountable in Parliament over issues that impact the masses.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi both took to X and slammed the government for not discussing the Adani issue in Parliament.

Priyanka Gandhi wrote, “People if country want that there should be discussion on Adani mega scam in Parloament. All partners.of INDIA bloc are demanding for a discussion on the issue in Parliament but Narendra Modi ad the government is regularly escaping from the debate. The way in which the Prime Minister is safeguarding Adani’s corruption is very surprising. Today participated with fellow MPs protest in Parliament premises over the issue.”

Even Rahul Gandhi took to X and wrote, “Modi adani are one and media will not show this truth.”

The Congress has been demanding for a JPC on the issue for last one year. The Congress once again reiterated it’s demand and mounted its pressure after the fresh report over Adani Group.

TMC demands action against Mithun’s ‘incendiary comments’

October 29, 2024, 3:14 am

The Trinamool Congress today demanded that the BJP take strict action against Dadasaheb Phalke award winning actor and party leader Mithun Chakraborty for his “incendiary comments against Muslims” while addressing a public meeting alongside Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday.
In the meeting, Chakraborty, 74, referred to a pre-Lok Sabha election comment by the Trinamool’s Humayun Kabir – who had threatened rival party workers on religious grounds, and was censured by the Election Commission – and called on BJP karyakartas to “chop them (up) and bury you in the ground”.
The violent rhetoric followed Kabir’s comment in May, as he was campaigning for the party’s Lok Sabha election candidate in Murshidabad district. At a rally, he reportedly said: “You are 30 per cent (of the people here) but we are 70 per cent… if you think you can demolish mosques and Muslims will sit back and relax… (you are wrong). I will leave politics if I don’t drown you people in the Bhagirathi…”
On Sunday, Mithun Chakraborty said: “A leader says there are 70 per cent Muslims and 30 per cent Hindus (and) that he will ‘cut’ and throw them in the Bhagirathi… I thought Chief Minister (Mamata Banerjee) would say something. She didn’t… so now I am saying, we will chop them (up) and bury them in the ground…” he said.
“I am not the Chief Minister… but I am saying this,” the 74-year-old actor raged: “We will do anything to win the masnad (throne) of Bengal… it will belong to the BJP after the 2026 Assembly election.”
“I am saying it again and again… we will do anything (to win the 2026 election) … anything. I am saying this with Home Minister Amit Shahji sitting here – we will do anything,” he warned ominously.
The political atmosphere in Bengal is getting heated up as the two parties gear up for bypolls to six Assembly seats next month. Chakraborty, 74, repeated this threat, calling the river “our mother” and declaring, “I say we will cut you up and throw you, not in the Bhagirathi because that is our mother, but we will throw you in the ground.”
Chakraborty then slammed the Trinamool Congress for its communal stand and said: “We will do anything… we will do anything”, and accused the Bengal State Government of not allowing the Hindu community to cast votes.
The actor – speaking at a membership drive – then called on BJP supporters to join the party’s karyakartas. “We want those people who will fight… who can stand up and say, ‘Shoot me… let me see how many bullets you have’,” he said, taking a swipe at the Trinamool over multiple incidents of pre- and post-poll violence in the state, “But we don’t want those who join for money.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah was present at the event; he had just felicitated the National Award-winning actor for being presented with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award on October 8.
Chakraborty then also uttered a second violent threat. “If you cut down one fruit from our trees… we will cut down four of yours,” he said, as Shah continued to look on impassively.
The Trinamool hit back swiftly. Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said that if Bharatiya Janata Party was committed to secularism, then it should take immediate action against Mithun Chakraborty.
Another leader, party General Secretary Jay Prakash Majumdar however dismissed Chakraborty as an “inconsequential figure”.
“No one takes him seriously as a political leader… the leader (the Trinamool’s Kabir) whose comment he spoke about was censured (by the Election Commission). But now, in the presence of Amit Shah, Mithun Chakraborty is saying this… will he also be censured now?” Majumdar asked.

Supreme Court Requests ED’s Response on Partha Chatterjee’s Bail in High-Stakes Teachers’ Scam

October 1, 2024, 5:49 pm

In a significant development on October 1, 2024, the Supreme Court of India requested a response from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding a bail plea filed by former West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee. This plea is connected to a high-profile case involving alleged irregularities in teacher appointments and has drawn considerable attention due to its implications for political accountability and public trust in educational institutions.

Chatterjee, who has been in custody since July 2022, faces serious allegations under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). His arrest stemmed from a broader investigation into a cash-for-jobs scandal where numerous deserving candidates reportedly lost out on teaching positions to those who paid bribes. The Supreme Court’s bench, consisting of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, noted Chatterjee’s advanced age and health issues as factors warranting the ED’s timely response.

The case has been mired in controversy since it first came to light, with the ED’s investigations uncovering staggering amounts of cash and gold linked to Chatterjee’s associates. Notably, in July 2022, the agency recovered Rs 49 crore in cash and Rs 5 crore in jewelry from properties associated with Arpita Mukherjee, a close aide of Chatterjee, which pointed to a larger network of corruption involving various officials from the Trinamool Congress (TMC). This case underscores the challenges of political corruption in India and the potential implications for the current TMC government in West Bengal.

Chatterjee’s legal team, led by senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, argued that he has already served over two years in custody, with the maximum penalty for his charges being seven years. His defense also emphasized that the previous court rulings lacked sufficient evidence linking him directly to the seized cash. Despite these arguments, the Calcutta High Court previously denied his bail request, citing a robust prima facie case against him. This consistent denial reflects the seriousness with which the judiciary is approaching cases of corruption, particularly in public service sectors.

Also read: Bihar: Seven Children Denote Homemade Bomb In Bhagalpur While Playing, Severely Injured

As the Supreme Court prepares for further hearings scheduled for October 17, the ED is expected to submit its response, which could significantly influence the case’s direction. The outcome of this case may not only affect Chatterjee’s future but could also have far-reaching consequences for other politicians and public servants entangled in corruption cases across India.

The ongoing developments highlight the judiciary’s role in tackling corruption and maintaining the integrity of public institutions, particularly in a context where educational opportunities are paramount for the country’s youth. As the public awaits the next steps, this case serves as a crucial litmus test for both the legal framework surrounding corruption and the political landscape in West Bengal.

Bengal BJP MP Seeks HM’s Intervention On Illegal Immigrants From Bangladesh

October 1, 2024, 3:51 am

BJP West Bengal state general secretary and Purulia MP Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato has written to the Centre highlighting the problem of illegal immigration from Bangladesh into West Bengal over the past few years. This, he said, has significantly altered the demographic landscape, leading to a host of security, economic, and social challenges. He also blamed the ruling Trinamool Congress for actively encouraging the influx of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh.

In a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday, Mahato said that the Jungle Mahal region, which spans Bankura, Purulia, Jhargram, and parts of West Midnapore, has long been a cultural and economic hub for indigenous communities. However, the influx of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants has drastically shifted the region’s demographic balance, he said.

Mahato, referring to Amit Shah’s recent speech in Sahibganj, Jharkhand, where he had said that “unchecked infiltration” could lead to a demographic takeover within the next few decades, Mahato wrote that this issue was not limited to Jharkhand; it was deeply affecting West Bengal as well.

“In Jungle Mahal, this demographic shift is creating profound challenges for local Hindus and tribal populations, who find themselves outnumbered in many areas. Illegal land acquisitions, fake marriages, and identity fraud facilitated by illegal migrants are eroding the economic and social stability of the region,” Mahato wrote. He said that the indigenous population was facing rising unemployment, as job opportunities were being increasingly seized by illegal immigrants, and tribal communities are being displaced from their ancestral lands.

Mahato wrote: “It is deeply concerning that this crisis is not only being ignored by certain political parties but is actively being facilitated by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and its allies in the I.N.D.I. alliance. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has openly invited Bangladeshi nationals to seek refuge in the State, effectively creating a vote bank of illegal immigrants.”

He alleged that the ruling political party in West Bengal was actively working to naturalize illegal immigrants by providing them with ration cards, voter IDs, and other official documents, allowing them to settle permanently in the State.

Trinamool’s Kunal Ghosh’s ‘Rat’ Photo Barb, CPM Leader’s ‘Rabbit’ Comeback

September 16, 2024, 4:13 pm

In the midst of a heated political exchange over the rape-murder of a doctor in Kolkata, a senior Trinamool Congress leader’s jibe has sparked a clever response from a CPM leader. Trinamool Congress spokesperson Kunal Ghosh shared a photograph on his X account today, where he is seen holding a rat in his left hand. The caption in Bengali read, “Naming him Shatarup,” a comment directed at CPM West Bengal state committee member Shatarup Ghosh.

This exchange is part of a larger series of verbal confrontations between Kunal Ghosh and Shatarup Ghosh, set against the backdrop of the political tension following the rape-murder of a 31-year-old doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital last month.

Recently, Kunal Ghosh released an audio clip, claiming there was a conspiracy to attack protesting doctors to tarnish the image of the Mamata Banerjee government. Following this, Kolkata Police arrested CPM leader Kalatan Dasgupta. Shatarup Ghosh had criticized Kunal Ghosh over his party colleague’s arrest.

Shortly after Kunal Ghosh’s post on X, Shatarup Ghosh responded on Facebook. He wrote in Bengali, “Thank you, Kunal da, for naming the free rat Shatarup. As a mark of gratitude, I name the jailed rabbit next to you Kunal Ghosh.” This was a reference to Kunal Ghosh’s imprisonment after being implicated in the Saradha chit fund scam that shook West Bengal in 2013.

Shatarup Ghosh’s comeback has been widely appreciated on social media, with many users applauding his wit.

Also read:

BJP and Congress Clash Over Viral Video of Madhya Pradesh Gangrape Case Arrest

Shiv Sena MLA Offers Rs 11 Lakh Bounty for ‘Chopping Off’ Rahul Gandhi’s Tongue, Igniting Controversy

Narendra Modi’s Hug With Atal Bihari Vajpayee Video Goes Viral: ‘Two Great PMs’

Earlier this month, Kunal Ghosh was in the spotlight for another sharp retort. After BJP leader Papiya Adhikari threatened to pull his hair, he responded on X, “Papiya Adhikari, a former actress, then CPM, and now BJP leader, has publicly threatened to slap me, pull my hair. I have lost my hair. It is not right to cast an evil eye on them. Instead, suggest medicines that may help hair growth.”

TMC MP Jawhar Sircar Resigns from Rajya Sabha Over Kolkata Doctor’s Rape-Murder Case

September 8, 2024, 3:09 pm

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Jawhar Sircar announced his resignation from the Rajya Sabha on Sunday, citing dissatisfaction with the handling of the Kolkata doctor’s rape and murder case. In a letter addressed to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Sircar expressed his disappointment with the state government’s response and urged Banerjee to “save the state.”

Sircar revealed that he plans to travel to Delhi to submit his resignation to Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar.

In his letter, Sircar voiced his frustration over the lack of intervention by Mamata Banerjee in her “old Mamata style” during the ongoing protests by junior doctors. “I thought you would interfere in the ongoing movement in the old Mamata style, but I did not see it,” he wrote.

Sircar criticized the government’s approach towards the agitating doctors, accusing it of favoring a select few while ignoring corruption. He noted that the public was losing confidence in the administration and expressed dismay at the lack of swift punitive action against those responsible for administrative failures.

“I have suffered patiently for a month since the terrible incident at RG Kar Hospital and was hoping for your direct intervention. It has not happened, and whatever punitive steps the government is taking now are too little and quite late,” Sircar’s letter read.

He emphasized that had the government acted sooner and punished those responsible for administrative mismanagement, normalcy in the state could have been restored earlier. Sircar also announced that after his resignation, he would “disassociate myself totally from politics.”

Background of the Case

On August 9, a trainee doctor was found raped and murdered at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The police arrested Sanjay Roy in connection with the crime. However, the actions of the hospital administration and the Kolkata police came under scrutiny for alleged mishandling of the case.

It was reported that the former principal of the hospital, Dr. Sandip Ghosh, attempted to pass off the murder as a suicide. The victim’s family was kept waiting for over three hours before they were allowed to see their daughter’s body, and the murder FIR was filed 14 hours after the discovery of the body.

Last month, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Dr. Ghosh over alleged financial irregularities at the hospital. Protests led by doctors and civilians have continued for weeks, demanding justice and action.

TMC’s Response to Sircar’s Resignation

TMC leader Kunal Ghosh addressed Sircar’s decision, stating that the administration had been misunderstood by the protesters. “At present, we are working like soldiers under the leadership of Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee. This does not mean I criticize the personal principle of Jawhar Sircar. It is his decision; he can take it. We condemn this (RG Kar Medical College and Hospital rape-murder) incident. People are angry and misunderstand the administration,” Ghosh said.

He emphasized that the party would work to explain the situation to the public and that Sircar’s decision would be considered by the party’s leadership.

BJP Demands Mamata Banerjee’s Resignation

Reacting to Sircar’s resignation, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla demanded that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee step down. “If someone should resign, it should be West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee. The TMC government and Mamata Banerjee institutionalized corruption, and in his letter, Sircar wrote that whenever he raised the issue of corruption, he was silenced. Mamata Banerjee tried to destroy the evidence and save the accused,” Poonawalla said.

The case continues to spark widespread outrage, with protests and calls for justice growing across the state.

Bengal Governor, Trinamool Spar Over Anti-rape Aparajita Bill

September 7, 2024, 1:49 am

West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose and the Trinamool Congress have locked horns over the Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024, which the State Assembly passed on Tuesday in a special two-day session in the aftermath of the gruesome rape and murder of a trainee doctor at the state-owned RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.

The Governor has sought a technical report on the Bill,and dubbed the legislation a “political gimmick designed to hoodwink people”, observing that similar legislations from other States were pending with the President. Bose said the State Government was duty bound to send a technical report before a decision is taken on giving assent to the Bill.
The Trinamool Congress hit back at the Governor for his comment. Party spokesperson Kunal Ghosh said that the Governor was showing “utter insensitivity towards the RG Kar rape and murder victim,” while Biman Banerjee, the Assembly Speaker urged the Governor “not to make politically motivated statements” “I will request the honourable Governor to please look into the Constitution and determine for himself whether the Bill passed by the West Bengal Assembly requires any further clarification,” he told reporters.

“The Governor criticised the State administration for failing to attach the technical report along with the ‘Aparajita Bill’. As per rule, it is mandatory for the State Government to send a technical report before a decision is taken on giving assent to a Bill,” a Raj Bhavan official briefed journalists late on Thursday.

“This is not the first time that the Government has withheld technical reports and blamed the Raj Bhavan for not clearing Bills,” he added.The Bill, which provides amendments to the Bharatiya Nyaya Samhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Adhiniyam and the POCSO Act, adding provisions of death penalty for different kinds of rape, was unanimously passed in the State Assembly on September 3. The legislation came more than three weeks after the rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata’s R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital.

“This is not the first time that the Government has withheld technical reports and blamed the Raj Bhavan for withholding Bills. The Raj Bhavan admonishes Nabanna for misleading people to cover up the lapses of the Government,” a Raj Bhavan source said. According to the source, the Governor has pointed out that the Bill “appears a copy paste” of the similar Bills passed by Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Arunachal Pradesh legislatures. Knowing fully well that these Bills are pending with the President, Mamata Banerjee is “threatening dharna only to hoodwink the people of Bengal”, the source said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said that her party leaders and supporters will hold demonstrations outside the Raj Bhavan if the Governor does not give consent to the Bill. Participating in the debate after tabling of the Bill, Banerjee had urged the Bharatiya Janata Party legislators to urge the Governor to give his assent.

“The Governor has expressed displeasure at such political gimmicks on such a sensitive issue ignoring the sentiments of the parents of the victim. The Governor has advised the Chief Minister ‘honesty is the best policy’,” the Raj Bhavan source said. Bose had on Thursday evening criticised the Mamata Banerjee administration for “failing to send” the technical report along with the Bill, which is necessary for giving assent to it.

Assam Trinamool Congress President Ripun Bora Resigns Over TMC’s Regional Perception

September 1, 2024, 5:06 pm

Assam Trinamool Congress (TMC) President Ripun Bora announced his resignation from the party on Sunday, citing widespread concerns that TMC is perceived as a regional party from West Bengal. Bora expressed his disillusionment with the party’s inability to counter the BJP effectively in Assam due to this perception.

Bora explained, “I initially believed that TMC could bolster our efforts against the BJP in Assam. However, it’s become clear that the people of Assam view TMC as a party rooted in Bengal, despite their respect for Mamata Banerjee. Since the people of Assam are not receptive to TMC, I realized that continuing with the party would yield no results and would only waste my time and energy.”

To address the perception issues, Bora suggested several measures, including appointing an Assamese leader at the national level, declaring Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika’s residence in Tollygunge as a heritage site, and transforming Madhupur Satra in Cooch Behar into a cultural hub. These steps, he believed, could help counter the perception of TMC as a regional party of West Bengal.

Bora also revealed his frustration with the lack of response from TMC National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to his repeated attempts to address these concerns. His unsuccessful efforts to engage with party leadership further influenced his decision to resign.

Bora concluded, “Having served as Assam TMC President for over two years, it is clear that the party’s image as a regional entity from West Bengal has impeded our progress. The people of Assam are unwilling to accept a party from another state. Consequently, I have decided to dissociate myself from TMC.”

Kolkata Police Was Given Deadline, CBI Should Get One Too: TMC on Doctor’s Rape-Murder

August 16, 2024, 3:50 pm

Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Derek O’Brien has demanded that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) expedite its probe into the rape and murder of a junior doctor in Kolkata, mirroring the timeline given to Kolkata Police.

O’Brien, in a post on X, stated that the CBI should provide daily updates on the investigation and adhere to the August 17 deadline set for Kolkata Police to complete their probe. He emphasized the need for swift justice and the harshest punishment for those involved in the heinous crime.

The TMC leader further expressed public outrage over the incident and extended condolences to the victim’s family.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is scheduled to lead a protest demanding the CBI arrest all culprits and expedite the trial. Meanwhile, doctors and medical organizations across the country are planning demonstrations in solidarity with the victim.

Kolkata Police has arrested 19 people in connection with the mob violence that erupted at RG Kar Medical College following the doctor’s murder. A large mob had attacked doctors and medical students on the night of August 14.

The tragic incident has sparked widespread condemnation and protests from the medical community.

Hindu Influx From Bangladesh ‘Inevitable’, Says BJP

August 8, 2024, 1:49 am

Following the resignation and flight of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India and the subsequent lawlessness in Bangladesh, BJP leaders say a Hindu influx into India is “inevitable”. They say that as many as 1 crore people may cross over into India.
BJP leaders in West Bengal say the attacks on minorities, including the members of the Hindu community, in Bangladesh have led to immense insecurity among these people and caused concern among the rights groups in the country.

Several BJP leaders have suggested that Hindu refugees may arrive in India and urged people to welcome them. BJP leader Dilip Ghosh also said whenever there is a crisis in Bangladesh, Hindus come over to India. “We are watching the situation. Atrocities should be stopped,” he added.

He also alleged that the people carrying out the atrocities on minority Hindus in Bangladesh were the same criminals that the Trinamool Congress had smuggled in to attack BJP workers after the 2021 Assembly elections.

Sensing trouble, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has appealed to all, particularly the political parties not to put up sensitive posts that could disrupt peace in Bengal. On Tuesday, Kolkata Police issued an advisory warning the people not to forward videos of violence from Bangladesh.

“Suitable action will be taken against those who foment trouble by forwarding such videos,” a senior Kolkata Police officer told The Daily Guardian. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has appealed to all, particularly the political parties, not to put up sensitive posts that could “disrupt peace in West Bengal”. Bengal BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, on Aug 6, said the Indian Government should be ready to accommodate members of the minority communities from Bangladesh under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.
“Be prepared to receive one crore refugee Hindu brothers. The Union Government has already made arrangements under the CAA. The minorities in Bangladesh are unsafe and it was “clear” that Bangladesh’s 7% Hindus would leave,” said Adhikari. Adhikari, who met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Aug 6, said that Hindus were being mistreated in Bangladesh. The vast majority of Hindus in West Bengal are Bengali Hindus numbering around 55 million and comprising 60.2% of the state population of 91.35 million as per the 2011 census.

Bengal is home to a large number of Bangladeshi Hindu refugees, who entered the country in different waves since 1947. But CAA is a sensitive topic in the Northeast, whose history is defined by agitations against “outsiders”. BJP MLA and Matua leader Asim Sarkar termed the prevailing situation in Bangladesh unfortunate. “In such an unfortunate situation, Hindus who come to India should be given shelter here,” Sarkar said.

Matuas are a community of lower-caste Hindus who are spread out in Bangladesh and in the border districts of West Bengal bordering Bangladesh. Mamata Banerjee Aug 6, said that she would back any stand the Centre may take on the issue. “If our brothers and sisters face some trouble in Bangladesh, the Indian Government and the Government of Bangladesh will look into it,” she said. Meanwhile, BJP ally and senior Tripura tribal leader Pradyut Kishore Debbarma has sought assurance from the Centre that any influx of Hindus from Bangladesh into India should be stopped.

Debbarma posted on social media that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had assured him that the borders were well-guarded, to prevent any “illegal” movement.
Meanwhile the reports coming from Bangladesh have made the situation even more volatile. “Houses and shops of minority people were attacked, vandalised and looted in at least 97 such places on August 6 and 7,” Rana Dasgupta, general secretary of Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, said in a statement.

At least 10 Hindu temples were attacked by “miscreants” on Aug 6. Also, some businesses and homes owned by some Hindus and seen by some in the Muslim-majority nation as having been close to the ousted former leader were attacked on Aug 5.
“Such attacks on minorities are against the fundamental spirit of the anti-discrimination student movement,” said Iftekharuzzaman, Transparency International’s Bangladesh head.
Yesterday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had said that there are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals inBangladesh of which about 9,000 are students. Jaishankar gave an assurance that the Government is in close contact with the Indian community in Dhaka.

SC Grants Bail to TMC Leader Anubrata Mondal in Alleged Cattle Smuggling Case

July 30, 2024, 2:16 pm

The Supreme Court granted bail to Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Anubrata Mondal on Tuesday in an alleged cattle smuggling case, imposing several conditions, including a prohibition on influencing witnesses. Justices Bela M. Trivedi and Satish Chandra Sharma were on the bench that ruled on the bail application.

In addition to the condition against influencing witnesses, the court directed Mondal to surrender his passport and fully cooperate with the trial.

Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Mondal, noted that his client had been in jail for two years and pointed out that other co-accused in the case had already been released on bail.

Mondal has challenged the Calcutta High Court’s rejection of his bail plea through a petition filed with the Supreme Court by advocate on record Lzafeer Ahmad BF.

Mondal was arrested by the CBI in August 2022. The agency had previously arrested a former Border Security Force (BSF) commandant in connection with the illegal smuggling of cattle across the India-Bangladesh border. Mondal’s name surfaced during the investigation, according to sources.

The CBI investigation revealed that over 20,000 cattle had been seized by the BSF between 2015 and 2017 during attempts to smuggle them across the border.

Alongside Mondal, others implicated in the case include his daughter Sukanya, former bodyguards Sehgal and Enamul Haque, and BSF commandant Satish Kumar. All have been arrested by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the case.

Anubrata Mondal is known to be a close aide of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Trinamool welcomes SC ruling on CBI probes into Sandeshkhali incident

July 11, 2024, 3:49 am

The Trinamool Congress on Wednesday welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling that the West Bengal Government’s suit challenging the registration of cases by the CBI in the Sandeshkhali incident without its prior consent was valid.
The Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal Government had approached the Supreme Court against the CBI over filing cases despite the State withdrawing its general consent to the Central agency in 2018.
The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and Sandeep Mehta, also rejected preliminary objections of the Centre on maintainability of the suit and the argument that Bengal had suppressed material facts.
The apex court bench noted that since the West Bengal Government had withdrawn general consent to the CBI in 2018, the agency could not have continued to register FIRs in respect of the offences within the State.
The ruling came as a huge relief to the Trinamool Congress which has been mired in multiple corruption cases which are being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation under the supervision and monitoring of the High Court.
“This decision by the apex court is a lesson to those who want to undermine a democratically elected State Government by misusing Central agencies. Any threat to our foundational principle of federalism will not be accepted. The move also makes it clear that no one can meddle with a state’s law and order for their selfish political interests,” the party said in its X handle which was reposted by many leaders of the party.
In its plea, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the West Bengal Government, had argued that once the State had withdrawn its consent on November 16, 2018, the Centre could not allow the probe agency to enter the State for investigation.
The West Bengal Government also contended that the CBI was functioning under the superintendence of the Centre.
The Supreme Court bench said the case would have a huge impact on federalism.
“We have considered the DSPE (Delhi Special Police Establishment) Act and Supreme Court rules. It cannot be said that West Bengal has not made out any case against Centre,” it said.
According to section 6 of the DSPE Act, 1946, the CBI must obtain consent from respective State Governments to conduct investigations in their jurisdiction.
The DSPE Act provides immunity from the Centre’s powers, the court added. “We find that in the present suit, the plaintiff is raising the legal issue of whether CBI can file a case under the DSPE Act after revocation of consent. Can CBI register and investigate cases in violation of Section 6?” the court asked.
The next hearing is on August 13 when issues for adjudication will be framed after hearing the Bengal Government and the Union Government.
In his submission today, Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, had said that the Union Government or its departments do not exercise any supervisory control over Central Bureau of Investigation probes.
The Centre had raised preliminary objections about the maintainability of the lawsuit filed by the West Bengal Government, contending that there was no cause of action against the Union of India.
The West Bengal Government has filed an original suit in the apex court against the Centre under Article 131 of the Constitution, alleging that the CBI has been filing FIRs and proceeding with investigations despite the State having withdrawn the general consent to the federal agency to probe cases within its territorial jurisdiction.
Article 131 of the Constitution of India deals with the Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction in a dispute between the Centre and one or more States.

SPORADIC VIOLENCE MARS 4 BENGAL ASSEMBLY BYPOLLS

July 11, 2024, 3:46 am

By-elections in four Assembly seats in West Bengal were marked by sporadic violence and charges of rigging by Trinamool Congress supporters. According to the BJP candidates, Trinamool Congress activists attacked and prevented them from moving about in the constituencies even as bogus voting was resorted to in the four Assembly seats of Maniktala, Bagdah, Dakshin Ranaghat and Raiganj. They complained that the 75 companies of Central forces were not found during the polls.
In Maniktala, an Assembly seat within Kolkata, BJP candidate Kalyan Chaubey, who is also the AIFF (All India Football Federation) president, was seen being heckled with “go back” slogans and a mob of Trinamool Congress supporters chased his car. In a press conference in the evening, the BJP candidate was visibly disturbed and threatened to move the High Court against “the election fraud perpetrated by the Trinamool Congress.”
Binay Kumar Biswas, the Bagdah candidate, said: “I was stopped from visiting the booths after I got complaints that BJP workers were being beaten up by TMC goons.”
BJP’s Ranaghat Dakshin candidate Manoj Kumar Biswas alleged that BJP camp offices in some areas had been ransacked by the Trinamool Congress supporters.
Both BJP candidates Manoj Kumar Biswas and Binay Kumar Biswas claimed they were not allowed to visit some booths.
The Trinamool Congress denied the allegations and dubbed them as “baseless”. Party spokesperson Santanu Sen said: “These were just excuses since the BJP had understood that it is going to lose in all the four seats.
The BJP has lodged a complaint with the Election Commission against these incidents.
Three of the constituencies – Maniktala in Kolkata, Ranaghat Dakshin, and Bagdah in North 24 Parganas – are located in the southern part of the State.
The fourth Assembly constituency, Raiganj, is situated in north Bengal’s Uttar Dinajpur district.
There are around 10 lakh electorates in the four Assembly segments.
The BJP bagged Ranaghat Dakshin and Bagdah seats in the 2021 Assembly polls. Raiganj was won by the saffron camp in the last Assembly elections.
The Maniktala seat was secured by the Trinamool Congress in 2021 but it became vacant after former State Minister Sadhan Pandey died in February 2022.
Despite the BJP winning the other three seats in 2021, the MLAs later switched to the Trinamool Congress.
The bypolls were necessitated as Krishna Kalyani from Raiganj, Biswajit Das from Bagdah and Mukut Mani Adhikari from Ranaghat Dakshin gave up their seats to contest the Lok Sabha elections.
An Election Commission official said that a voter turnout of 62.71 per cent was recorded till 5 pm in the four Assembly constituencies in West Bengal. Raiganj witnessed the highest turnout at 67.12 per cent, followed by Ranaghat Dakshin at 65.37 per cent, Bagdah at 65.15 per cent and Maniktala at 51.39 per cent.
According to Election Commission officials, turnout may increase further as queues were observed outside polling booths.
The counting of votes will take place on July 13.

Old Assault Video Sparks Political Controversy in Bengal; 2 Arrested

July 10, 2024, 3:07 pm

An old video has surfaced, sparking a political firestorm in Bengal, after showing a brutal assault allegedly perpetrated by associates of a Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader inside a club in Kamarhati, North 24 Parganas. The incident, reportedly from February 2021, has ignited widespread condemnation.

Two individuals have been taken into custody by the police in relation to the assault. Jayant Singh, linked to TMC MLA Madan Mitra and associated with the club, has been in police custody since his July 4 arrest for another mob assault in Ariadaha.

The video captures individuals identified as Jayant Singh’s associates restraining a victim while others attack them with sticks. Eight people have been identified from the footage, with Guddu and Jugga among those arrested. Jayant Singh is named in the FIR, though The Indian Express has not independently verified the video’s authenticity.

The Barrackpur police commissionerate has launched legal proceedings, indicating their initial investigation suggests the victim is likely male, contrary to initial claims of a female victim. The incident has drawn strong condemnation from BJP’s West Bengal president Sukanta Majumder and local authorities, highlighting the severity of the assault and its implications under a government claiming to champion women’s rights.

General Elections 2024: BJP Retains Power, Opposition Block Reshapes Political Dynamics in Hard-Fought Election

June 7, 2024, 12:42 pm

The high-stakes 2024 general elections witnessed an unprecedented show of opposition unity, with regional parties and the Congress party playing a pivotal role in curbing the BJP’s dominance.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has secured a third consecutive term in power following the 2024 Indian General Elections, despite falling short of an outright majority. The results, announced on June 4, 2024, highlight significant shifts in voter sentiment and underscore the rising influence of regional parties and opposition alliances.

In a remarkable political upheaval, the opposition’s INDI alliance has emerged as a formidable force, denying the ruling BJP an outright majority and reshaping the dynamics of Indian politics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP won 240 seats with a vote share of 36.56%, leading the NDA to a total of 292 seats crossing majority mark of 272 seats for forming government. This victory marks the first time since 1962 that a party has formed the government for three consecutive terms. However, the BJP did not achieve its ambitious target of “400-paar,” and its reduced seat count from previous elections indicates a need for strategic alliances to form a stable government.

In Uttar Pradesh, the BJP faced significant competition from the INDI Alliances’s Samajwadi Party (SP), which won 37 out of 80 seats & Congress won 6 seats. On the other hand, the BJP got 33 seats, NDA members RLD got 2 seats, and Apna Dal got 1 seat. This shows a strong challenge from regional parties. Similarly, in West Bengal, the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) dominated with 29 out of 42 seats, leaving the BJP with only 12 & INC won 1 seat only.

The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, led by the Indian National Congress (INC) and comprising several regional parties, emerged as a formidable opposition. The INC won 99 seats with a 21.19% vote share, marking a significant improvement. Rahul Gandhi, secured victories in both Wayanad and Raebareli, emphasizing a renewed focus on coalition politics and pro-poor policies.

Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) and other regional players like the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) who won 22 seats with 1.82% vote share, played crucial roles in the INDIA bloc’s success.

Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister of West Bengal and a key INDIA bloc leader, addressing the press on June 4, Banerjee stated, as reported by ANI, “… I am happy that the Prime Minister did not get the majority figure. He should resign immediately because he had said that this time they would cross 400 seats…” She further remarked, “…Even after causing so many atrocities, spending so much money, this arrogance of Modi ji and Amit Shah, INDIA has won and Modi has lost. They have even lost in Ayodhya…”

“This election was a battle to protect our Constitution and democratic values,” declared Rahul Gandhi, who secured victories in both Wayanad and Raebareli. Gandhi credited the triumph to the collective will of the people, asserting that the nation had rejected the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.

Regional shifts were prominent, with significant victories for non-BJP parties in various states. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], with 16 and 12 seats respectively, are going to play the role of kingmakers for the NDA Government, given the BJP’s need for coalition support. The Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), winning all its five contested seats, will also play a pivotal role in the new government.

In Kerala, the BJP’s Suresh Gopi Actor turned politician won the Thrissur constituency, marking the party’s first parliamentary seat in the state. This victory signals the BJP’s growing influence in traditionally non-BJP territories. In contrast, the defeat of prominent BJP candidates in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal highlighted the resurgence of regional parties and shifting voter alliances.

In his post-election address, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to the electorate and emphasized continuity in governance. Modi thanked BJP workers for their hard work, stating it inspired him to work for the country. He praised the Election Commission for successfully conducting the elections, emphasizing the scale and efficiency of the operation, which involved 100 crore voters, 11 lakh polling stations, 1.5 crore poll officials, and 50 lakh EVMs. He highlighted the pride every Indian should feel in the election system’s credibility and efficiency.

Modi recounted the NDA government’s decisions, such as the removal of Article 370 from J&K and banking reforms, emphasizing the priority of national interest. He credited his administration with effective handling of the COVID-19 crisis and positioning India as the fastest developing economy, aiming for self-reliance.

Modi stressed the need to combat corruption, highlighting Digital India’s role in curbing it but acknowledging the challenges ahead. He vowed that the thrust of the NDA’s third term would be to end corruption.

Conclusion

The 2024 Indian General Elections underscore a dynamic and evolving political landscape. While the BJP-led NDA secures another term, the rise of the INDIA bloc and the significant performance of regional parties point to a more competitive and coalition-driven future. The need for strategic alliances and the emphasis on inclusive governance will shape the political discourse in the coming years, ensuring that India’s democracy remains vibrant and responsive to its diverse electorate.

As India moves forward, the political landscape promises to be more dynamic, with regional parties and opposition alliances playing crucial roles in shaping governance and policy. The 2024 elections have not only defined the immediate political scenario but have also set the stage for future political strategies and alignments, reinforcing the resilience and adaptability of Indian democracy.

Lok Sabha Election 2024 ECI Mandates Repolling in Barasat and Mathurapur in West Bengal Today

June 3, 2024, 10:00 am

The Election Commission has issued orders for the conducting of repolls at one polling station each in the Barasat and Mathurapur Lok Sabha constituencies in West Bengal. This decision comes just a day before the scheduled counting of votes.

According to the directives from the election authority, the repolling will take place at two specific locations: 61 Kadambagachi Saradar Pada FP School, Room No 2 of 120-Deganga Assembly Constituency in the 17 Barasat Parliamentary Constituency, and 26 Aaddir Mahal Srichaitanya Bidyapith FP School of 131-Kakdwip Assembly Constituency in the 20-Mathurapur (SC) Parliamentary Constituency in West Bengal.

The Election Commission, in a letter addressed to the Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal, stated, “I am directed to state that on the basis of reports received from the concerned RO/the concerned DEO/the Observers of 17-Barasat PC and 20-Mathurapur (SC) PC regarding poll taken for General Election to Lok Sabha for West Bengal State, 2024, held on 1 June, 2024 and after taking all material circumstances into account, the Commission, hereby declares under sub-section (2) of Section 58 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, that the poll taken on 1 June, 2024 for aforesaid election at the following polling stations (as mentioned in Column 3 of the table below) to be void and appoints 3 June, 2024 as the date and fixes the hours as mentioned in Column (4) of the table below, for taking a fresh poll at the said polling stations in accordance with Commission’s instructions contained in paragraphs 13.62 of Chapter XIII of Hand Book for Returning Officer, 2023.”

During the seventh and final phase of Lok Sabha polls on June 1, clashes erupted between supporters of Trinamool Congress (TMC), Indian Secular Front (ISF), and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) across various areas of the state. An alleged clash occurred between Trinamool Congress and BJP supporters at Bayarbari in West Bengal’s Basirhat. Additionally, a clash broke out between TMC and BJP supporters at Meraganj in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district, resulting in several injuries.

In another incident, West Bengal police faced resistance from local women while attempting to arrest an alleged accused in Saturday’s violence in Basirhat’s Sandeshkhali. The police were attempting to apprehend BJP worker Sadhan Nandi.

Lok Sabha Election 2024 Phase 2024: Violence breaks out in several parts during Phase 4 In West Bengal

May 13, 2024, 1:16 pm

Polling in different districts of West Bengal was disrupted by violence on Monday during the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

In Durgapur, a brawl broke out between BJP and Trinamool Congress workers. Workers from the ruling Trinamool Congress allegedly vandalised the BJP’s kiosk outside a voting place in Birbhum.

TMC leader Ram Prasad Haldar accused BJP workers of attempting to influence voters with the presence of central forces since 6 am. He stated, “We protested against it, voters also protested. They are trying to bring polling agents from outside. Central forces are threatening the people and influencing them. People of the area are opposing them here.”

BJP MLA Laxman Ghorui claimed that their polling agents were forcibly removed from the polling booth at TN School in Durgapur. He said, “Our polling agents were repeatedly thrown out of the polling booth by TMC goons.”

Ghorui further criticized the presiding officer’s conduct, alleging mistreatment of voters and women since 6 am. He stated, “When I reached, the presiding officer did not allow me to enter. Only when the press arrived and after the intervention of the SDO, we were allowed to enter.”

Earlier, BJP candidate from Bardhaman-Durgapur Lok Sabha constituency Dilip Ghosh accused “goons of TMC” of preventing polling agents from entering the booths. Ghosh expressed hope for improved conditions and smooth voting.

The fourth phase of polling for 96 Parliamentary Constituencies across nine states and one Union Territory commenced on Monday at 7:00 am. Eight seats in West Bengal were part of the polling.

Although still part of the Opposition bloc–INDIA, the TMC contested alone in Bengal, fielding candidates for all 42 Lok Sabha seats. The Congress and the Left Front shared seats in the state, with the Left parties contesting 30 seats and the Congress 12.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the TMC secured 34 seats, while the BJP won just 2. However, in the 2019 polls, the BJP made significant gains, winning 18 seats, while the TMC’s tally reduced to 22. The Congress and the Left Front performed poorly.

BJP Criticizes Trinamool Congress Over Alleged National Flag Disrespect

April 12, 2024, 3:56 pm

The Bharatiya Janata Party in West Bengal has criticized the Trinamool Congress for purportedly showing disrespect to the national flag by substituting the Ashok Chakra with their party flag.

“TMC’s latest stunt in Bankura, disrespecting the National Flag by replacing the Ashok Chakra with their party flag, is nothing short of treason,” said the BJP in a post on ‘X’, sharing a picture of a wall painting depicting the tricolor flag with Trinamool Congress’s symbol on it.

The BJP criticized the TMC, labeling them as an “anti-India” party and stating, “Their repeated offences, from Sandeshkhali to Bankura, reveal their anti-India agenda. Shame on TMC’s betrayal of our nation.”

Watch here:-

TMC’s latest stunt in Bankura, disrespecting the National Flag by replacing the Ashok Chakra with their party flag, is nothing short of treason.

Their repeated offenses, from Sandeshkhali to Bankura, reveal their anti-India agenda. Shame on TMC’s betrayal of our nation. #TMC… pic.twitter.com/dTrd1DXOFH

— BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) April 12, 2024

The opposition has criticized the TMC for purportedly protecting Sandeshkhali’s influential figure, Shahjahan Sheikh, who is accused of orchestrating multiple violent acts against women on the island of North 24 Parganas.

Polling for the Lok Sabha in Bengal is set to occur over all 7 phases, beginning on April 19. The vote count is scheduled for June 4.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the TMC secured 34 seats in the state, whereas the BJP managed only 2 seats. The CPI (M) also won 2 seats, and the Congress claimed 4. However, in the 2019 polls, the BJP significantly improved its performance, securing 18 seats compared to the TMC’s 22. The Congress’s count fell to 2 seats, while the Left did not win any seats.

Mamata responses on NIA attack case; asks for timing of raid; BJP says no law and order in Bengal

April 6, 2024, 2:24 pm

In her initial response to the assault on a National Investigation Agency (NIA) team at Bhupatinagar in Purba Medinipur district during an investigation related to a blast case, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee asserted on Saturday that the elite anti-terror agency hadn’t informed the state government beforehand about their visit to the area. Sources within the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) reported that the CM also raised questions regarding why the agency conducted the raid in the middle of the night.

Addressing the Bhupatinagar incident, Mamata questioned the timing of the raid, stating, “Why did they choose to conduct the raid at midnight? Did they obtain police permission? The locals reacted as expected when faced with unfamiliar visitors late at night. Why are they apprehending people just before the elections? What does the BJP aim to achieve… by having our booth agents detained? What authority does the NIA possess? These actions appear to be in favor of a specific political party ahead of the elections. We urge all conscientious individuals nationally and internationally to condemn BJP’s deceitful politics.”

In a counterattack against the ruling TMC in the state, veteran BJP leader and former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad remarked, “Is this the first time such an incident has occurred in Bengal? Wasn’t the Enforcement Directorate (ED) team attacked previously? Didn’t the truth about Sandeshkhali emerge? The NIA team was conducting raids against suspected terrorists when they were attacked.”

Speaking to ANI, BJP leader Rahul Sinha strongly criticized CM Mamata, highlighting that the incident once again exposes the complete breakdown of law and order in Bengal. Sinha accused the chief minister of running a dictatorial regime under the guise of governance and administration, jeopardizing the state’s present and future.

“We demand swift identification and prosecution of those responsible for this incident. The culprits must face exemplary punishment,” added the BJP leader.

Earlier in the day, some NIA officers were reportedly harassed in Purba Medinipur district while investigating a blast case. According to sources within the elite anti-terror agency, an NIA team conducting an ongoing probe into the blast case faced an attack on Saturday in Puba Medinipur. Sources stated that the vehicle carrying NIA officers was allegedly vandalized during the process of apprehending a suspect related to the case.

A video of the purported incident circulated widely on social media, showing locals gathering around the vehicle, attempting to prevent the NIA team from taking the suspect. The villagers also reportedly hurled stones at the vehicle.

As previously reported, a team of ED officers was surrounded, harassed, and attacked by protesters in Sandeshkhali while raiding the residence of expelled and imprisoned TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and another ruling party member concerning an alleged food scam.

Bengal: NIA team attacked in Purba Medinipur while arresting suspect in blast case

April 6, 2024, 12:02 pm

A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) encountered an attack at Bhupatinagar in West Bengal’s East Midnapore district on Saturday morning. The officials had arrived to investigate a blast case at a Trinamool Congress leader’s house that occurred in 2022.

This incident bears resemblance to a previous attack on a team from the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas district. In that instance, officers faced hostility, resistance, and assault from protesters while conducting a raid at the residence of expelled and incarcerated TMC figure Sheikh Shahjahan, along with another ruling party leader, in connection with an alleged food scam.

According to sources within the NIA, the team investigating the blast case faced aggression while visiting Purba Medinipur district on Saturday. It’s reported that the vehicle transporting the NIA officers was damaged during the process of apprehending an individual linked to the case.

Earlier this morning, a team of NIA officials arrested two individuals in connection with the case and was en route back to Kolkata when their vehicle was attacked, according to source.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a police complaint regarding this incident. Additionally, a significant contingent of central police forces has arrived at Bhupatinagar, where the NIA team, accompanied by the two arrested individuals, is currently stationed, according to police sources.

A video circulating on social media purportedly shows locals surrounding the vehicle, attempting to obstruct the NIA team from taking the suspect into custody. Additionally, sources mentioned that villagers threw stones at the vehicle.

This situation is ongoing, and further details are awaited.

LS Polls:TMC Reveals Lineup of 40 Key Campaigners

March 27, 2024, 12:41 am

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) unveiled a roster of 40 prominent campaigners on Tuesday.

The lineup comprised notable figures such as West Bengal Chief Minister and party leader Mamata Banerjee, MP and the party’s national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, and former cricketer and candidate from Behrampore, Yusuf Pathan, among others.

TMC unveiled its selection of 42 candidates for the Lok Sabha elections earlier on March 10.

Conveying TMC’s decision to contest the Lok Sabha polls independently, party General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee revealed the list, featuring unexpected entries such as former cricketers Yusuf Pathan from Berhampore and Kirti Azad from the Bardhaman Durgapur Lok Sabha constituency.

Abhishek Banerjee is set to run from Diamond Harbour, while Mahua Moitra, who was expelled from the Lok Sabha during last year’s winter session, has been nominated for the Krishnanagar constituency.

Meanwhile, Mukut Mani Adhikari, who recently resigned from the Bharatiya Janata Party, has also been granted a ticket for the Ranaghat Lok Sabha seat.

Shatrughan Sinha is poised to once again vie for the Asansol seat, which he had previously secured in the 2022 bypoll.

TMC has nominated Jagadish C Basuniya for Cooch Behar, Prakash Chik Baraik for Alipurduar, Nirmal Ch Roy for Jalpaiguri, and Gopal Lama for Darjeeling.

Upon unveiling the candidates, TMC affirmed that the ruling party in Bengal will continue to stand alongside the common people as part of its commitment.

“Under the leadership of Chairperson @MamataOfficial, we’re pleased to announce the names of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. We are steadfast in our commitment to stand by the common people against the deprivation of the Central Govt. When it comes to confronting the @BJP4India jomidars head-on and responding in the language they understand best, the Twin Flower is people’s only choice!,” TMC posted on X.

Bengal is slated to vote for 42 Lok Sabha members in all seven phases of the general elections, commencing on April 19 and concluding on June 1. The vote counting is set for June 4.

During the previous Lok Sabha polls, the TMC secured 22 seats, while the BJP made a significant breakthrough by winning 18 seats.

Opposition Raise Concerns Over 7-Phase Lok Sabha Elections

March 17, 2024, 12:46 pm

Following the Election Commission’s announcement of the Lok Sabha elections being conducted in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, opposition parties have greeted the decision positively. However, some have raised concerns that the staggered polling schedule could favor the BJP. The Congress has also emphasized that the forthcoming elections represent a final opportunity to safeguard democracy.

The Trinamool Congress has also remarked that the poll body did not consider the West Bengal government’s proposal of conducting the elections in one or two phases. It stated that the seven-phase polling in the state once again will aid “parties with deeper pockets”.

The 44-day voting duration will be the second longest after the first Lok Sabha election in 1951-52, which extended across four months.

In a Saturday post on X, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that the 2024 elections will usher in the era of Nyay (justice) for India, alluding to the party’s programs aimed at different segments of society.

“2024 Lok Sabha elections will open the ‘Door of NYAY’ for India. This would be perhaps the last chance to save Democracy and our Constitution from Dictatorship. ‘We the people of India’ will together fight against hatred, loot, unemployment, price rise and atrocities,” he posted.

Speaking to reporters later, Mr. Kharge remarked that a seven-phase election indicates that “Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants to tour everywhere” and it could have been concluded in three or four phases.

“We are not anxious about what is going to happen, but Modiji putting seven phases, it means that he wants to tour everywhere. In this country, I have also contested nearly 12 elections and there hardly used to be four phases. Sometimes it used to be even one phase,” news agency PTI quoted him as saying.

Highlighting that almost all development activities will cease from Saturday due to the enforcement of the model code of conduct, the Congress leader stated, “…Stopping nearly 70-80 days, imagine how the country will progress? Because of the election code of conduct…materials will not be supplied. Budget will not be spent. So, according to me, this is not good. He could have completed within three or four phases.”

Addressing a press conference, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera remarked that these “milestone” elections are occurring under “a cloud of scams” of electoral bonds, jailing, suspension and raiding of opposition parties and politicians, and freezing of funds of the main national opposition party.

TKS Elangovan, spokesperson of the DMK, which is the opposition party with the second-highest number of Lok Sabha MPs, remarked that waiting until June 4 for the results is something that the party will need to “prepare” for.

“We anticipated that Tamil Nadu will come in the first phase (on April 19), however, waiting till June 4, is one question that the party has to get prepared for,” he said.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC), which had previously stated that the elections in West Bengal should be conducted in one or two phases, mentioned that seven rounds of polling will aid parties with deeper pockets.

“We wanted a single or twin phase Lok Sabha election in the state. Our views were that a multiple-phase election helps political parties with deeper pockets, and gives them an advantage over others,” Bengal Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya was quoted as saying by PTI.

“The 2021 assembly elections were held in eight phases and it was said that this was being done due to the pandemic. So now, what is the reason for holding elections in seven phases? There is no valid reason,” she said, adding that the Trinamool Congress hoped that the Election Commission would work in an “impartial” manner.

“The state government’s views were not taken into account. This is a disregard for the federal structure. We fail to understand the reasons for holding such a long election. This is quite surprising,” Trinamool Rajya Sabha MP Sukhendu Sekhar Ray said.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief, Arvind Kejriwal, urged the public to cast their votes in favor of his party.

“The dates of Lok Sabha polls in the country have been declared. It’s a great festival of democracy. I appeal to all the countrymen to vote this time against dictatorship and hooliganism,” he said.

“The AAP works for real issues of the people and facilitates them. Strengthen our hands by voting on ‘jhaadu’ (broom, the AAP’s election symbol) wherever our candidates are contesting the polls, so that we can work for you with more energy,” he added.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut stated that the Maha Vikas Aghadi, a coalition comprising the Congress, NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar), and his party, is prepared for the elections. “We only want the Election Commission to ensure free and fair polls… The MVA will announce its candidates after the rally in Mumbai tomorrow,” Mr Raut told PTI.

The faction led by Sharad Pawar within the NCP, however, raised questions about why the elections were being conducted in five phases in Maharashtra, which, with 48 seats, sends the second-highest number of MPs to the Lok Sabha.

“Five phases in Maharashtra. What is the BJP trying to do? Is this fear or EVM?” Clyde Crasto, national spokesperson of the party, posted on X.

Electoral Bonds Data: Top 10 Donors; Future Gaming and Hotel Services purchased Rs 1,368 cr worth electoral bonds

March 15, 2024, 9:08 am

The Election Commission of India complied with the Supreme Court’s directive by publishing electoral bonds data on its official website on March 14. The data reveals that donors are identified solely by the names of companies or individuals.

According to the released data, 1,260 companies and individuals collectively purchased electoral bonds amounting to ₹12,769 crore. Among them, the top 20 companies contributed ₹5,945 crore, which represents nearly half of the total donations made through electoral bonds.

The Election Commission reiterated its commitment to transparency and disclosure, aligning with the stance taken by the Supreme Court, as reflected in its proceedings and orders.

These are Top 10 leading contributors to political parties:

Future Gaming and Hotel Services PR – ₹ 1,368 crore
Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Ltd – ₹ 966 crore
Qwik Supply Chain Pvt Ltd – ₹ 410 crore
Vedanta Ltd – ₹ 400 crore
Haldia Energy Ltd – ₹ 377 crore
Bharti Group – ₹ 247 crore
Essel Mining & Industries Ltd – ₹ 224 crore
Western UP Power Transmission Company Ltd – ₹ 220 crore
Keventer Foodpark Infra Ltd – ₹ 195 crore
Madanlal Ltd – ₹ 185 crore

Future Gaming and Hotel Services, led by lottery magnate Santiago Martin, emerged as the primary purchaser of electoral bonds, amounting to Rs 1,368, according to data released by the Election Commission of India. Future Gaming, based in Coimbatore, is recognized as one of India’s largest lottery companies, founded by Santiago Martin.

Megha Engineering Infrastructure Limited contributed Rs 966 crores, while Qwik Supply Chain Private Limited, Haldia Energy Limited, Vedanta Limited, and Bharti Airtel Limited made significant donations as well.

Moreover, there are the list of top 10 leading individuals

Major political parties such as the Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress, AIADMK, Trinamool Congress, and others have benefited from these contributions. The Election Commission provided details of electoral bond transactions, obtained from the State Bank of India, revealing Future Gaming and Hotel Services and Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd as leading donors.

The Commission emphasized its commitment to transparency, citing Supreme Court directives, and detailed the purchase and encashment of electoral bonds. SBI furnished data on bond transactions between April 12, 2019, and February 15, 2024, totaling 22,217 bonds purchased during this period.

In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court invalidated the electoral bond scheme and related amendments, requiring SBI to disclose details of each bond encashed by political parties, including the date and denomination. Electoral bonds, akin to promissory notes, were issued for contributions to political parties, purchasable from specific SBI branches in various denominations.

Legal challenges against amendments allowing unchecked political funding were filed, asserting concerns over potential misuse of the Finance Act 2017 and Finance Act 2016.

Ahead of Lok Sabha elections, TMC MP Arjun Singh announces to join BJP

March 14, 2024, 2:53 pm

In a significant blow to the Trinamool Congress ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Arjun Singh, the Member of Parliament from the Barrackpore constituency, declared on Thursday his intention to join the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Singh did not specify the time or date for his BJP enrollment, stating, “This is fixed; I will join the BJP. I can join here or in Delhi, anywhere. I will do whatever party gives me work.”

Addressing inquiries about his departure from the TMC, Arjun Singh expressed feeling wronged. “The public will answer this,” he remarked.

It is noteworthy that Arjun Singh was dropped by the TMC, and Partha Bhowmick has been nominated from the Barrackpore seat for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Arjun Singh had previously joined the BJP in 2019 and secured victory over the then-TMC candidate for the Barrackpore seat. However, in 2022, he returned to the TMC fold.

Earlier, on March 12, amidst speculations about his BJP rejoining, Arjun Singh had stated that time would reveal whether he would return to the BJP or not. When pressed to clarify rumors about his potential departure from the TMC to rejoin the BJP before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Singh remarked, “Politicians are always in touch with a lot of people, be it ruling party or opposition. I have come from that party (BJP) itself. We will see what happens next.”

Meanwhile, the TMC announced 42 candidates for the impending Lok Sabha elections, with expelled Lok Sabha member Mahua Moitra nominated from Krishnanagar. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, disclosed the TMC candidates during a display of strength in Kolkata on March 10.

After Sourav Ganguly, Mohammed Shami likely to contest Lok Sabha elections from West Bengal on BJP ticket

March 8, 2024, 3:33 pm

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has reached out to the fast bowler Mohammed Shami, considering him as a potential candidate for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The party is exploring the possibility of fielding Shami from the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat in West Bengal. While there is speculation surrounding Shami’s potential political debut, no official statement has been released on this matter.

According to reports, the BJP has initiated contact with Shami, expressing interest in having him contest from the Basirhat seat in Bengal. Currently represented by Nusrat Jahan of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), this constituency could see Shami, who plays domestic cricket for West Bengal, potentially influencing the Muslim vote bank in the region if he decides to enter politics.

The BJP recently unveiled its initial list of 195 candidates, with ongoing discussions for additional names. Shami’s inclusion might be considered in the second list. Additionally, there are rumors circulating about former Indian captain and Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Sourav Ganguly also making a foray into politics.

Sources suggest that Ganguly might contest the Lok Sabha elections on a Trinamool Congress ticket. West Bengal, with 42 Lok Sabha seats, witnessed the TMC securing 22 seats in the 2019 elections, while the BJP won 18 seats, and the Congress secured two seats. Speculations abound that the Congress and TMC might form an alliance, known as the ‘India’ alliance, for the upcoming elections.